Tactical World - Spring 2016

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FROM THE EDITORS OF GUN WORLD

SPRING 2016
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
36
COVER STORY
44 PLAIN TO FANCY
36 GUN FIGHTERS WEAPON
The AXTS MI-T300 BLK is so accurate and reliable
youd think mad scientists created it.
By Straight 8
FEATURES
AR-15 accessories you need and why you need them.

By Bob Campbell
60 THE TACTICAL ADVANTAGE

You carry. But, what do you do when someone
invades your world with bad intentions? An expert
reveals the answers.
By Suzanne Mullen
8 RESPONSE AND RESCUE
68 TACTICAL FITNESS
In this day and age of terrorism, its imperative to

master the skills to keep you alive. The team from
Double Tap Training shows you how.
By Ryan Price
Theres more to staying alive than just shooting skills.

In this story, an operator showcases the training he
does to physically stay on top of his game.
By Bret Perchaluk
18 HOT SHOT
76 TRAINING WITH A PURPOSE
Weve highlighted the hottest gear and guns from this

years SHOT Show.
By Wilbur Roberts
Make the move from recreational shooter to defensive

shooter.
By Steven Lieberman
4 TACTICAL WORLD | SPRING 2016
120
84 LIGHTER, STRONGER, BETTER

We tested Daniel Defenses DD5V1, and we
consistently scored sub-one-inch groups.
By Dick Shutz
92 GO-TO GEAR
From head to toe, find out what gear the pros prefer.
By James Ryen
106 WRONG TURN

Find out what to do when things go bad behind the
wheel.
By Tom Marshall
52
120 THE PATH TO EXCELLENCE

Games change and so does training. Find out what the
future holds in the firearms industry.
By Bob Campbell
128 BLACK OPS V2 BOOTS

We threw BLACKHAWK!s boots on an operator and
told him to put them to the ultimate test.
By Bret Perchaluk
PRODUCT
GUIDES
COLUMNS
52 Red Dot Sights
6 From the Editor
112 Tactical Lights
130 One Final Look
92
ABOUT THE COVER

COVER PHOTO: Straight 8
COVER DESIGN: Eric Knagg
SPRING 2016 | TACTICAL WORLD 5
LETTER FROM THE
EDITOR
WHY YOU NEED
EDITORIAL
Doug Jefrey Editorial Director
TACTICAL TRAINING
David Dolbee Editor

Margaret Kavanagh Managing Editor
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DESIGN
Thomas Kimball Art Director
Eric Knagg Design Director
Untutored courage is useless in the face of educated bullets.
CONTRIBUTORS
Bob Campbell, Brad Fitzpatrick, Jenny Graham, Jaimee Itagaki,
Steven Lieberman, Tom Marshall, Suzanne Mullen, Bert Perchaluk,
General George S. Patton
Ryan Price, James Ryen, Richard Schutz, Mike Searson, Straight 8
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U.S. NAVY PHOTO BY AIRMAN KRISTOPHER WILSON
oday, many Americans suffer from delusions.

They are brainwashed by intellectual conceit or apathetic to the
realities of the threat we face. Tier One operators are a force to reckoned with and seldom matched on the battlefield, but they are not your personal security detail. Warfighters understand this, but do you?
Gone are the days of massed firepower and air superiority to fight wars. Today,
the fighting is door-to-door, in villages, foothills and here on our own streets. It is not
enough to go out and get a CCW, carry a sidearm and feel as though you are ready
to face the wolf. Todays operator faces a new warrior who has reverted to the oldest form of warfare: individual. He is fearless and knows that at the end of the confrontation he will be dead.
He is not part of a standing army, does not travel in heavily armored vehicles, and
does follow the Rules of War. He easily blends with the local civilian populace,
understands our weaknesses and preys on our lackadaisical, carefree attitude.
But he is wrong. Not about the masses, but they are wrong about you, me and the
tactically minded. We rely on our law enforcement training, military experience and
follow-on range work. We practice, remain vigilant, share our skills and techniques.
When the wolf comes to our door, we eat the son-of-bitch for dinner. We live in a
Tactical World.
Together we are
the largest standing army in the
world. Individually,
we represent the
Tier One of the
free world.
I sincerely hope
you enjoy the
Spring 2016 issue
of Tactical World.
Whether you are
in the market for a
Air superiority is critical, but todays war is fought diferently.
new AR-15 or
Here, nal checkers brace themselves from jet blast as an F-14B Tomcat
looking to outfit
launches down the ight deck aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS
one with the latHarry S. Truman.
est accessories,
the latest information is now at your fingertips. Bad things happen to good people, so we have a
feature article on tourniquets carry one and know how to use it.
There are articles on skill building, tactical lights, red dot optics and more.
Please enjoy! TW
TACTICAL WORLD is published by Engaged Media Inc., LLC,

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RESPONSE
AND
RESCUE
Mastering the Bounding Overwatch

and Tourniquet Techniques
STORY BY RYAN LEE PRICE
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JAIMEE ITAGAKI
n the wake of several recent terrorist attacks

involving a lone gunman or a small team, the fear
of an active shooter scenario has been on the
minds of anyone who considers themselves prepared and ready for a variety of threats.
Active shooter incidents are dangerous, uncertain, and
quickly changing, all compounded by a dizzying cacophony of gunshots, screams, panic, and commotion. Specialized teams, such as SWAT units, receive complex
tactical training on how to respond to dynamic situa-
tions with many moving parts, like an active shooter.

Though it is difficult to shrink this type of training into an
abbreviated, short-course format suitable for all line
officers and first responders, it has been proven time
and again that some training in this area is important
because, on the rare occasion when a single patrol officer is one of the first to arrive at a mass shooting incident, the stakes could not be higher.
As more people are taking an interest in protecting
themselves (evidenced by the record number of firearms
Staging: When first arriving on the scene it is important to find a secure location from which to observe the incident and open communications with HQ
before formulating a plan of attack. Find out more about Double Tap at www.DoubleTapShooting.com
purchased in 2015), they are also bolstering their skillsets by turning to professionals to provide much-needed
knowledge of tactical techniques to
combat what can seem like an ever-rising wave of random violence.
One such professional is Simon Cruz
Jr., director of operations at Double Tap
Training Center in Granada Hills, Calif. At
its private range in the Angeles Shooting
Ranges in Lake View Terrace, Calif., he
and his staff have been teaching not
only firearms safety and maintenance

classes, but tactical shooting courses,
close quarter battle
tactics, and security/first responder
courses as well. With a list of credentials
from federal, state, and international
governments, Cruz, for the purpose of
this article, is a Law Enforcement Active
Shooter Emergency Response (LASER)
instructor and Close Quarter Battle
(CQB) Tactics instructor. He is wellversed in the skills and understands the
nuances involved when defending

against an active shooter and dealing
with the potential consequences of random acts of violence.
FIRST RESPONSE
Gunfire in an otherwise civil location
such as a movie theater, mall, or an
office environment can be unnerving
and alarming. For most people, hearing
shots fired and the chaotic screams of
people in panic can easily set their world
auditory occlusion [loss of hearing], loss

of peripheral vision and depth perception [tunnel vision], and cognitive processing deteriorates.
OBSERVATION: When first on the
scene, or on the scene as events are
unfolding, observation is the most
important element of assessing the situation. It has been recommended that
you take a few seconds to assess the
situation and the aggressors tactical
resources in order to determine the best
approach, rather than simply charging
into the scene. You are expected to
quickly delineate the threat from civilians, all through a fog of panic and confusion. Head toward the sound of gunfire, says Cruz, beyond the sounds of
fire alarms, fire sprinklers and screaming
civilians and victims. More importantly,
officers must overcome the temptation
to aid injured victims and focus on the
objective, which is to eliminate the
active shooter.
Keep your eyes and ears open: What
is the threat? From where is it coming? How many are involved? What do
they look like? What is their objective?
If you are not in a position to subdue
the threat, be prepared to observe
from a safe vantage point. Descriptions of the attackers, kinds of
weapons involved, license plate numbers, and anything you can see or hear
that might identify the shooter(s) will
be important.
on end. They become bewildered and

confused because they have no basis in
their past on which to compare the current situation.
Because of its randomness and suddenness, it might seem difficult to prepare for such a situation. However, with
an acute sense of awareness, practiced
observation techniques, and the skills
and gear to neutralize a threat, you can
tip the balance between aggressor and
first responder. Cruz adds, It is imperative for responding officers to stay calm.
Under stress, officers will experience
COMMUNICATION: The normal

response from law enforcement in the
threat of a shooter situation is to send
the entire cavalry, but it doesnt arrive all
at the same time as there are considerable logistics involved. Patrol officers
close to the threat will normally arrive
first. They immediately set up a staging
point and begin to communicate the situation to command. Whenever possible, suggests Cruz, officers must communicate progress to the command
post; work in conjunction with other
responding teams to limit the suspects
movement, and constantly evaluate the
suspects position to reach decision
points.
Some agencies policies require one
officer to remain outside the scene of
the incident in order to serve as the incident commander even in the first
moments of the police response. A
commander is needed to control the
scene, organize contact and rescue
teams, brief personnel who arrive later,
and keep the police department communications center informed about
what is happening.
PLAN OF ATTACK: Since the
Columbine shootings in 1999, all firstresponding officers are trained in dealing with active shooter situations. After
observation and communication
(which may take place simultaneously), they formulate a plan of action
to neutralize the shooter(s). This is
Locating: Once the threat has been located, advancing into the range of your weapons to make contact can begin by establishing a jumping-of point.
Bounding: While the overwatch element of your contact team remains behind to provide covering fire, the bounding element advances to the next location. This can be done either by alternating or successive bounding movements (shown).
their primary responsibility, and it must
be mentioned that they will not stop to
treat wounded (even their own) until
the location is cleared and safe from
all threats.
An effective method for gaining
entry into a building where an active
shooter is expected or to close the distance between a shooter and the contact team is called a bounding overwatch maneuver. The priority is to
make contact with the suspect,
explains Cruz. Stop the deadly behavior, limit the suspects movement, and
prevent the suspect from escaping.
BOUNDING OVERWATCH
Neutralizing a threat should be a
combined effort of at least two or
more first responders. In active
shooter situations where an officer
arrives at the scene and can hear
shooting, screams, or other indications that the perpetrator is actively
shooting or threatening victims. Most
agencies encourage the first responding officer to engage an active shooter
without waiting for arriving officers.
According to The Police Responses

to Active Shooter Incidents, a study
conducted in 2014 by the Police Executive Research Forum discussing solo
entry verses team entry, Sixty-two percent of the time, the [lone] officer
shoots the attacker. Another 13 percent,
the officer otherwise subdues the
attacker. The remaining 25 percent of
the time, the suspect kills himself.
However, in all of the solo entries we
identified where the scene was still hot,
one-third of the police officers who
made that solo entry were shot.
Advancing and Contact: Once the second element has secured a new location, the overwatch element advances to (successive) or beyond (alternating) the farthest position toward the threat.
Rescue: Once it is confirmed that suspect(s) are neutralized, verify the safety status of all team
members. If some are injured, administer first aid and extract them as quickly as possible.
BASIS PRINCIPLES: The basic principle of bounding overwatch is that
one element of the advancing teams
is always stationary and covering the
movement of the other elements.
There are two types of techniques
available: alternating and successive.
Alternate bounding is when the teams
successively leapfrog one another
toward the objective, as each team
surpasses the position of the other
and provides cover for the advancing
team. However, in successive bounding, the advancing units do not
leapfrog past one another. Instead,

the following team advances to the
position of the first team, and once
stationary, the first team advances to
a new location while being covered by
the second team.
PUTTING IT INTO PRACTICE: The
intent of bounding overwatch is for
the responding units to deploy forces
toward the threat but prior to contact with the threat. It is a technique
of providing the entire contact team
with the best position, and to do
that, the team must be broken up

into two or more elements: the
bounding portion and the overwatch
portion. The bounding element gains
further ground toward the point of
contact with the threat, while the
overwatch element suppresses any
threats that arise while the bounding
element is in motion. The bounding
element should avoid masking the
direct fires of the overwatch element, and it must not move beyond
the effective supporting range of the
overwatch element.
Assessment: After assessing the injured person for wounds, decide quickly what needs to be done to preserve his life. For gunshot wounds to the
extremities, a tourniquet is a quick and efective way to arrest the bleeding.
RESCUE
Because the primary role of a contact
team is to contact and eliminate the
threat, little time can be spent attending
to the wounded. Arguably, the longer the
threat is active, the greater probability
there will be more casualties. In many circumstances, formally trained medical
personnel will not or cannot be on the

scene immediately to provide casualty care.
Cruz suggests firearms rangemasters and
instructors to include tourniquet application in every firearms training they conduct.
First responders must be educated and
trained in point-of-wounding casualty
care techniques to save lives, and as

famed 19th Century surgeon Nicholas
Senn noted, The fate of the wounded
rests with the one who applies the first
dressing. In regards to the advancing contact team, the person to apply the first
dressing may be the casualty himself.
Application: The tourniquet should be at least 2 inches closer to the body than the wound. Shown
here, the tourniquet is applied to the upper thigh, suggesting that the wound is closer to the knee.
Since gunshots usually

result in large wounds,
a quick and efective means
of controlling blood loss
is via a tourniquet.
Since gunshots usually result in

large wounds, a quick and effective
means of controlling blood loss is via a
tourniquet, a specialized device that
has been saving life and limb since
French battlefield surgeon Etienne
Morel first used one in 1674 (tourni-
quet derives from tourner, French for

to turn).
According to Tourniquets for Hemorrhage Control on the Battlefield by
D. Lakstein, In a 4-year period of
tourniquet use by the Israeli Defense
Force there were no reported deaths
from uncontrolled limb hemorrhage

among 550 injured patients.
TYPES OF TOURNIQUETS: There
are surgical and emergency tourniquets; surgical tourniquets are used in
controlled medical environments,
Triage: If there are multiple wounds and the victim is conscious, have them begin to apply a tourniquet to one limb while you work on the other limb. If
the victim is unconscious, apply the tourniquet on the more severe injury (i.e., the one that is bleeding most).
while emergency tourniquets are
utilized in situations that require quick
control of blood loss. Devices like the
Silicone Ring Auto-Transfusion
Tourniquet and the Limb Occlusion
Pressure Tourniquet are used in the
operating room, while the popular
Combat/Self-Applied Tourniquet
(CAT) and SOF Tactical Tourniquet
have been used by the U.S. military,
medical first responders, and emergency personnel around the world.
HOW THEY WORK: Tourniquets work
when the band surrounding an
extremity is compressed. This compression forces the muscle and tissue
surrounding the artery to collapse the
vessel, decreasing blood flow.
The amount of force needed to collapse the vessel is dependent on
three variables: the size and circumference of the limb, the width of the
strap or band of the tourniquet, and
the amount of force that can be

applied to the constricting band.
Interestingly, a wider band on a
tourniquet is more effective at stopping
blood flow in an extremity rather than a
narrow band at the same tension.
infection can be associated risks, but

since a severed femoral artery needs
only 90 seconds to bleed out the
body, most often the risks are worth
saving a life.
Cruz explains, Tourniquets are
usually reserved for the worst bleed-
... a wider band on a tourniquet

is more efective at stopping blood ow
in an extremity rather than a narrow
band at the same tension.
RISKS: There are some risks associated with tourniquets, mainly from
improper use, lack of training, or prolonged tourniquet times. Amputation,
palsy, blood clots, renal failure, and
ing to keep the victim from developing shock. Although, tourniquets have
a bad rap in the field of emergency
first aid, they can arrest bleeding
quite well and are certainly useful in
cases of severe bleeding that cannot

be stopped any other way.
PUTTING IT INTO PRACTICE: Unlike
civilian EMS, military medicine practices have long called for tourniquet
application much earlier in the treatment for blood loss. During an active
shooter situation, time is precious. I
recommend carrying a few tourniquets while on patrol, suggests Cruz.
Place one in your pants pocket [front
or back], one in your sock, and one in
your shirt front pocket. It is better to
have it when needed. Not only that,
but every member of the team must
quet (pressure on the wound, pressure points, elevating the body part,
etc.) is valuable time lost.
Cruz points out how important
training for an emergency is, Lifesaving skills must be practiced periodically. I conduct refresher Tactical
Emergency Casualty Courses [TECC]
for my staff every two months, both
on self-aid and buddy-aid tourniquet.
I incorporate this training on every
tactical firearms course I host in
my outfit.
The CAT was designed for singlehanded application, so it can be
applied by the victim himself, but
closer to the body than the wound. Do

not apply it over a joint, such as a
knee or elbow. While organizing the
tourniquet, try to stop the bleeding
with your body by placing a knee over
the affected limbs main artery. This
will give you a slight headstart while
you prepare the tourniquet.
The CATs band should be routed
around the limb, passed through the
inside slit of the buckle and pulled
tight. The buckle is a friction type, so
as soon as the band is through the
outside slit, it will lock in place. Twist
the attached rod until the bleeding is
stopped and/or there is no pulse
remain in the fight for as long as possible (or return to it as quickly as possible). Fumbling with the three previous steps before applying a tourni-
once the active shooter has been

dealt with, rescue efforts should be
underway. Any type of tourniquet
should be applied at least 2 inches
below the wound. There is a clip for

the rod to lock into place. The tourniquet should not remain on the limb
for more than two hours. TW
Risk: Leaving a tourniquet on for more than two hours may cause circulatory and/or nerve damage to the afected limb. Additionally, never loosen the
tourniquet for any reason, as it will allow blood to ow again.
HOT at SHOT
Gear & Guns Showcased at the 2016 SHOT Show
BY WILBUR ROBERTS
ow perfect is this?
Every year Sin City
becomes heaven for those in the
firearms industry, as they get to indulge in the latest
and greatest guns, gears and accessories to hit the market
during this week-long event. And lets face it. Products are getting
better, and innovation continues to astound. So you can imagine how the
gear junkies feel.
Fortunately, what happens in Vegas does not stay in Vegas. Not only are we
going to reveal what was hot at SHOT, but these products will soon be hitting the
shelves." Of course, the following list isnt complete. Its only a fraction of what
was shown.
Get ready to indulge.
POLYCASE UPS THE ANTE IN PERSONAL DEFENSE

Polycase has rocked the market with their successful line of personal defense Inceptor and ARX ammunition. They have previously offered the .380 Auto , 9mm Luger and .45 ACP as well as
the .40 Smith & Wesson. They now offer the .38 Special as well.
PolyCase Ammunition is currently exhibiting at SHOT Show
2016, and is exhibiting the Inceptor .38 Special ARX for the first
time at the show. The Inceptor .38 Special ARX features a 77grain projectile and a muzzle velocity of 1,116 feet per second.
Our loyal Inceptor customers have been asking for .38 Special since we first introduced the ARX projectile, says Paul
Lemke, PolyCase Ammunition CEO. With the addition of .38
Special, we now offer the most popular semi-automatic handgun calibers in the world as well as the most widely used
revolver cartridge
The new .38 Special version of Inceptor ARX Ammunition features the ARX projectile, developed by PolyCase
Ammunition. The unique profile of the ARX bullet transfers
energy to its target through a fluid dynamic effect. By design,
the non-expanding ARX bullet exploits the bullets forward
velocity to create a localized Venturi effect, whereby fluid matter
is accelerated and ejected laterally via the flutes in the bullet
ogive. The result is a bullet with stopping power and terminal
performance that rivals many expanding handgun bullets.
QUICK SPECS
Caliber: .38 Special
Bullet weight: 77 grains
Velocity: 1,116 fps
Company: POLYCASE
Model: .38 Special Inceptor
MSRP: Estimated $24.99 box
Website: www.PolycaseAmmo.com
LASERMAX SPARTAN LASER

New from LaserMax, the Spartan series features a revolutionary mounting system that is
easily adapted to achieve ideal
placement on handgun accessory rails. Dual electronic touch
pads are ample in size and have
been elongated to ensure effortless activation with all finger
lengths and hand sizes. The
Spartan laser will be offered in
both red and green variants.
What is so different about Spartan? The handgun accessory market has become increasingly
saturated with laser products that offer no true advancements and little versatility. Spartan is different. Harnessing
LaserMaxs penchant for innovation, the Spartan features revolutionary Rail Vise Technology (patent pending) which
eliminates the need for multiple laser housing options or
clumsy adapters that limit mounting flexibility and can easily
end up lost. The fully adjustable nature of the Spartan ensures
that the operator can install the sight in its optimal location
for personal comfort and ease of use. Once anchored, the
sight maintains precision accuracy over extensive live-fire.

Other Features: The most versatile and feature-rich rail
mounted laser sight ever conceived, Spartan is equipped with
LaserMaxs patented integral rail feature.
Company: Lasermax
Product: Spartan Laser
MSRP: $99 to $149
Website: www.Lasermax.com
VIRIDIAN ILLUMINATOR
Viridian announced today at SHOT SHOW 2016 the introduction of a new line of weapon-mounted LED illuminators
that further enhance the companys market leadership position. Viridian has been the pioneer and leader in green laser
sight technology for the past decade, and now were taking all
that know-how to launch this exciting new, feature-rich line of
LED long range illuminators. said company President/CEO
Brian Hedeen.
The Illuminator Series consist of three different models
of weapon-mounted lights that are available in four different
CREE LED color configurations. said company Director of
Marketing Mike Dinndorf. Green and red light versions are ideal
for hog/varmint hunting and blood tracking while the white
and IR models suit the needs for law enforcement, home
defense or those with night-vision equipment. This is a
dream product; especially for hog hunters who require
dependable, long-range illumination at night to ensure target

identification without spooking their prey.
Viridians new Illuminator Series includes the V-100, V200 and V-300; with the V-300 boasting an electronic
Power Zoom feature that allows the user to focus the intensity of the beam with the just the touch of a finger. Each
model ships complete with three different mounts, batteries,
remote tail cap and tool kit and are available in green, red,
white and IR versions. The Illuminator Series are currently in
stock and ready to ship.
Company: Viridian
Product: Illuminator Green Laser
MSRP: $229
Website: www.ViridianGreenLaser.com
ATN THE ULTIMATE OPTIC

ATN is introducing a new X series scope for 2016. The ATN X Sight II is available in
3x14 and 5x20x. Powered by the Obsidian II core computer that runs a set of sensors, this is a high tech scope that meets any demand. ATN designed this
scope to allow shots at ranges previous impossible with night vision
scopes. The X sight also features a Gyro Range Finder. There is an E
Compass as well. The image makes it easier than ever to spot
games. The X sight is WiFi- and Bluetooth-enabled as well.
Company: ATN
Product: X Scope
MSRP: Average retail $629
Website: www.ATNcorp.com
FNH USA DEDICATED MARKSMAN RIFLE

FNs FN-15 rifle has been a critical and commercial success. FN Herstal, located in Columbia, South Carolina, has expanded to
offering upper receiver assemblies in carbine, rifle, and DMR. (Dedicated Marksman Rifle) FN upper receivers feature M 16 M16style bolt-carrier assemblies and charging handles. Barrels are cold-hammer-forged, individually high-pressure tested, and
magnetic particle inspected (MPI).
Company: FNH USA
MSRP: $799 to $1299
Website: www.FNHusa.com
5.11 SHOCK RIFLE CASE

PURPOSE BUILT
Designed to protect your prized firearm without slowing you
down, the 36-inch Shock Rifle Case provides professional protection in a highly mobile frame. A ruggedized 600D polyester
outer shell repels moisture and abrasions, while a fully padded
300D polyester interior keeps your firearm safe and dry. The
adjustable shoulder strap can be converted to backpack-carry
mode in seconds, while internal rifle retention straps and locking zippers keep the main compartment snug and secure.
Additional features include an ID window and WriteBar for easy
identification and overt 5.11 branding throughout.
MSRP: $85
Website: www.511Tactical.com
INDUSTRY ARMAMENT
ANNOUNCES FIRST TIER RIFLES
Industry Armament was founded to pursue the highly meaningful mission of
strengthening and protecting our military forces, law enforcement and the global
community, said Bryce Stirlen, president and CEO, Industry Armament. The
weapon systems we have in development represent a new era of technological
innovation and performance for the warfighter, and will also be adapted for the
civilian firearms enthusiast. Ares Armor will remain a separate entity that is committed to the Second Amendment and the civilian customer base that has contributed
so greatly to our success. Whether its a tool for home defense or shooting sports,
we will continue providing high quality components to those who take pride in the
craftsmanship of custom-built firearms.
QUICK SPECS
These rifles are available in 16- and 18inch barrel configurations along with an
AR 10 version in .308 Winchester.
Company: Industry Armament
Model: 16-inch AR and
18-inch barrel AR 10
MSRP: To be announced
Website: www.IndustryArmament.com
CZ-USA WHISPER-QUIET PERFORMANCE

CZ offers a number of interesting handguns. Built upon CZs reputation for service grade quality, the new clad-in-black Scorpion should be a
hit. The FDE Scorpion features a threaded barrel with flash hider. Chambered in 9mm Luger, CZs Bren 805 S1 Pistol has an 11-inch barrel and
has proven a popular SBR candidate for customers wanting to convert it
into an NFA firearm. Those who dont wish to register with the ATF can
always equip it with CZs adapter kit, which allows easy installation of
aftermarket arm braces or other devices meant to help stabilize largeformat pistols. Chambered in .223/5.56 and using the STANAG magazine from the AR16/M16, it easily accepts optics and lights on its top and
bottom Picatinny rails.
In the last few years, there has been a huge spike in requests for suppressor-ready firearms, and for 2016, CZ has more than doubled its
threaded-pistol lineup. Clad in urban-gray, CZs
limited-edition Urban Gray Suppressor Ready Series of pistols come with
a set of high suppressor sights equipped with
tritium lamps front and rear. Extended-capacity magazines boost the
capacity on all but the SP-01 by two rounds. Some models, like the P-01
Omega and the 75 Omega, are completely new. Variants include a P-09
with a 12+1 capacity, a P-07 with 17+1 capacity, a 75 SP-01 and a 75 B that
hold 18 cartridges, and a 75 P-01 with a capacity of 16+1.
Company: CZ USA
MSRP: $537 to 723
Website: wwwCZ- USA.com
LEUPOLD MARK 6/MARK 8

ELITE SNIPERS
Leupold & Stevens, the optics
choice of elite snipers, has
expanded the reticle options in its
Mark 6 and Mark 8 line of riflescopes. The Mark 6 3-18x44mm
M5C2 is now available with a nonilluminated Leupold Tactical Milling
Reticle (TMR). This tested and
proven reticle expands on the traditional Mil Dot reticle by using various sized and spaced hash marks
on the horizontal and vertical stadia. These marks allow for additional ranging precision, enhanced
accuracy and quick one-meter
range estimation reference points.
Additionally, the TReMoR 3 reticle has been added to the Mark 6
3-18x4mm M5C2 in both illuminated and non-illuminated versions. New to the Mark 8 3.525x56mm riflescope are Illumi-
COONAN SIMPLY LEGENDARY

Coonan has introduced a .45 ACP version of
their handgun. Lets face it if they are able to
make a rimmed revolver cartridge function in the
1911 platform, the .45 ACP should not present a
challenge! The Coonan defense features a linkless barrel of the Browning High Power-type and
other modern features.
Company: Coonan
Model: 1911 .45 ACP
MSRP: $1,375
Website: www.CoonanInc.com
nated TReMoR 3, Illuminated H59 and the

Leupold Illuminated TMR reticles. The TReMoR
3 and H59 feature grid-based tics for elevation
and wind holds, ranging and size estimation.
Company: Leupold & Stevens, Inc.
Model: Mark 6 3-18x44mm M5C2
MSRP: Starts at $2,860
Model: Mark 8 3.5-25x56mm
MSRP: Starts at $5,375
WEBSITE: www.Leupold.com
DAN WESSON VALKYRIE COMMANDER

1911 PERFECTION
Dan Wesson, owned by CZ-USA, has not neglected the burgeoning 1911
market. Dan Wesson has introduced a new Commander-style handgun.
Called the Vaklyrie, the Dan Wesson Valkyrie Commander simply adds an
aluminum Commander-size frame, making it ideal for those who need a bit
more purchase than an Officer-size frame allows. The Valkyrie Commander is
available in 9mm Luger and .45 ACP with a black duty/anodized finish.
Company: Dan Wesson
Model: 1911 .45 Vaklyrie Commander
MSRP: $2012
Website: www.CZ-usa.com
KAHR
VALUE AND PERFORMANCE
Kahr is continuing its popular Value Series Plus product
line, now with the 380 ACP CW380TU featuring a 2.5-inch
conventional rifled barrel, a trigger-cocking DAO action, a locked breech,
and a Browning-type recoil lug. The overall length is 4.96 inches, and height is just 3.9
inches. This pistol weighs 10.2 ounces without the magazine. It has a drift-adjustable
white bar-dot combat rear sight and a pinned-in polymer front sight. New for 2016 is the
finish. It has a black polymer frame, stainless slide with a Cerekote tungsten finish (dark
graphite gray) on the slide, slide stop lever, and trigger. This pistol should make a mark in the
.380 ACP market.
QUICK SPECS
Company: Kahr
Model: CW380TU
MSRP: $419
Website: www.Kahr.com
Weight: 10.2 ounces

Barrel Length: 2.5 inches
OAL: 4.96 inches
Caliber: .380 ACP
RUGER LCR
POCKET PISTOL PERFECTION
Ruger has announced the availability of its
popular and modern Lightweight Compact
Revolver in .327 Federal Magnum. Offering a
hard-hitting cartridge with six rounds on
board compared to .38 Special and .357
Magnum chambering, the new revolver is
double action only with a concealed hammer
to prevent snagging on the draw. The
revolver features a compact Hogue Tamer
grip with finger grooves. As a bonus, this
revolver will accommodate the .32 ACP, .32
Short, .32 Smith & Wesson long, and .32 H
and R Magnum cartridges.
Company: Ruger
Model: LCR .327 Magnum
MSRP: $619
Website: www.Ruger.com
SIG SAUER
PERFECTION IMPROVED
A favorite SIG of the legion of SIG fans is the
P225, a single-column magazine 9mm handgun.
As a researcher, I admire great competence. The
SIG Sauer P225 is a pistol that is fast from the holster and fits most hands well. The P225A features an enhanced trigger
and the precision manufacturing and quality from the state-of-the-art
SIG Sauer facility. The P225A is a single-stack 9mm pistol with the timetested double-action/single-action trigger system. A fully machined
stainless-steel slide comes in the durable Nitron finish. A hard-coatanodized frame sports two-piece grips with the SIG mark medallion. In
short, the original was a good pistol, the P225A will be even better.
Company: SIG Sauer
Model: P225A
MSRP $1,122
Website: www.SIG-Sauer.com
DANIEL DEFENSE
A NEW TRADITION OF 7.62
When my son wanted a first class AR-15, I did not hesitate.
Daniel Defense was the choice. Now, Daniel Defense has
introduced its much-anticipated rifle for the 7.62x51mm NATO
(.308) cartridge. The new DD5V1 incorporates more than a
decade of expertise from industry-leading engineers and
designers. With innovative features such as a four-bolt connection system, optimized upper receiver, improved bolt carrier group, ambidextrous controls, configurable modular
SEEK REVEAL
LIGHT IS OPTIONAL
Built for the realities of work and
play, the Seek Reveal handheld
imager combines powerful thermal
insight and a high-performance light
in one durable device. Reveals
advanced infrared technology lets
you see thermal images even in the
darkest night. And when you need it,
Reveals powerful 300-lumen LED
light makes sure you know exactly
whats out there.
Seeks reveal is military-proven
technology, tough enough for the
toolbox. Life can get pretty dirty. So
Reveal can, too. You can count on its
rugged, rubberized casing and intuitive controls to go and work where
you do no matter what conditions
you face.
MSRP: $399
Website: www.Thermal.com
charging handle, and cold-hammer-forged barrel, the DD5V1

though built around a traditional AR platform establishes
a new tradition in 7.62 rifles. It also features a Geissele SSA
two-stage trigger.
Company: Daniel Defense
Product: Daniel Defense 7.62 NATO rifle
MSRP: $2,899
Website: www.DanielDefense.com
SMITH & WESSON

SHIELD GETS PORTED
Smith & Wesson has introduced a new version of the reliable and effective Shield pistol. This one features a factory
ported barrel and slide. This addition of mature technology
will make a difference in the recoil, muzzle flip and control of
the lightweight Shield pistols. These new Shield ported pistols, available exclusively from the legendary Performance
Center, provide a host of premium features. When coupled
with the powerful .40 caliber Smith & Wesson cartridge, the
ported pistols will be a formidable combination. The 9mm will
benefit from this new design as well.
Company; Smith and Wesson
Model: Shield
MSRP: $490
Website: www.Smith-Wesson.com
SMITH & WESSON

ENGRAVED 1911 SPECIAL EDITION
Smith and Wesson is famous for offering affordable special edition handguns based upon popular
models. A new version is based upon the popular SW 1911type handgun. This engraving embellishes the all-steel canvas
and elevates the venerable 1911 platform to a new level of
sophistication and beauty. Chambered in .45 ACP, the pistol
showcases decorative machine engraving on the left and right
side of the stainless-steel slide and frame. This intricate
linework extends across the pistols 5-inch barrel, and when
combined with its glass bead finish and rosewood colored
grips, transforms this modern-day workhorse into a living
piece of art. The price is surprisingly affordable.
Company: Smith and Wesson
Model: 1911
MSRP: $1,060
Website: www.Smith-wesson.com
WALTHER PPQ
STEPPING UP TO .45 ACP
Walther has a history of innovation and high quality manufacture second
to none. Finally, Walther offers a .45 automatic caliber handgun. The PPQ
.45 Auto is the first true production Walther .45 Auto in the companys storied history. (A very few P38 variations were produced on an experimental
basis.) The gun is equipped with the Carl Walther quick-defense trigger and
is fashioned with the traditional front and rear slide serrations. Like all PPQ
models, it also has fully ambidextrous controls. This new .45 has a polygonal
rifled 4.25-inch barrel and houses three separate safeties. Accessories can
easily be mounted on the mil-spec Picatinny rail.
Company: Walther
Model: .45 ACP
MSRP: $616.99
Website: www.WaltherArms.com
CMMG
GOT KRINK?
I have used CMMG .22
caliber conversion units for
years. I have enjoyed excellent results. Its AR-15 rifles have
also performed well. The new CCMG
Mutant features a KRINK muzzle device.
Similar to the original Mk47 MUTANT
design, these new rifles are built around the
7.62x39mm cartridge and feature a shortened AR-10-size bolt-carrier group that is
paired with a unique upper and lower
receiver to minimize weight and increase
ergonomics. One of the primary benefits of
the Mk47 design is its ability to accept
existing AK magazines and drums. Three
models are currently available.
Company: CMMG
MSRP: $1,550 to $1,750
Website: www.CMMGinc.com
BERGARA BPR-17 ELITE

LIGHTWEIGHT CHASSIS
The BPR-17 LRP Elite Rifle is built on a Mega Orias chassis
with a Magpul PRS butt-stock. The Orias chassis is made
from extremely lightweight 7075-T651 billet aluminum and
has an ambidextrous magazine release. The PRS butt-stock is
precision adjustable for both comb and height and length-ofpull without sacrificing the ruggedness necessary for extreme
operational environments. The Orias Chassis features QD
flush cups on both sides, ambidextrous cheek rest, hidden
mono-pod provision, and an enclosed design. As standard
with all Bergara Premier rifles, the Bergara BPR-17 LRP Elite
Rifle offers a Sub-MOA Guarantee. This guarantee is proven
with each rifle in the form of an included test target showing
the exact group measurement at 100 yards.
Company: Bergara
Model: Bergara BPR-17 Elite
MSRP $2,640
Website: www.Bergarausa.com
CRIMSON TRACE LINQ

LET THERE BE LIGHT
Crimson Traces LiNQ wireless operating technology utilizes
a replaceable powered control grip to activate and operate a
forward or remotely located light and laser sight module.
The two-piece LiNQ components are designed to equip and
upgrade nearly all standard long guns with M-1913 and
Weaver style rails and replaceable pistol grips. The many
advantages to users of LiNQ include: no wires to tangle or disconnect, no activation pads to search for, ease of operation
and simple to use controls, and the two components can be
easily and quickly transferred to another firearm.
The LiNQs (LNQ-100) leading feature is a replaceable
AR/MSR-style compatible pistol grip that houses the components control circuitry and operating battery. That grip wirelessly communicates with the cutting-edge compact laser
sight and light module. When the module and grip are actively
communicating and linked via the secure Crimson Trace
developed LiNQ interface, a solid green light illuminates on
the grips side panel. If the grip is searching for the partner
COMFORTABLE RIDE
Galcos V-Hawk tuckable IWB reaches unheard-of
heights in comfort, speed, stability, and versatility. Constructed of premium steerhide, the professional-grade
V-Hawk comes complete with both leather 1 1/2-inch
belt loops and tuckable injection molded 1 1/4-inch CHooks. The wide spacing of the belt attachments lends
excellent stability to the design. An open top offers
both speed and ease of draw, and the reinforced mouth
offers an easy one-handed return to the holster.
Optional 1 3/4-inch tuckable metal belt clips round
out the V-Hawks superior versatility, while the included
C-Hooks offer an incredibly low profile on the belt, and
further enhance the V-Hawks already excellent concealability. The V-Hawk is currently offered for popular
semiautos and double-action revolvers.
Company: Galco
Product: V Hawk
MSRP:$107.16
Website: Galcogunleather.com
light/laser module, the user will see a flashing green light. If

the control grip has lost connectivity with the partnered
laser/light module, there will be a constant red light on the
grips side panel. These indicators are easy to see, and the
operation buttons are easy to find and engage. The system
operates on easy-to-purchase standard CR2 and CR123
Lithium batteries.
The remote module provides these operation options:
Light and laser together
Laser only (green lasers only)
Light only (the innovative LED light has a
300-Lumen output)
Laser and strobing light
Company: Crimson Trace
Model: LiNQ
MSRP: $549
Website: www.CrimsonTrace.com
KIMBER MICRO 9
KIMBER K6
THE REVOLVER EVOLVED
The Best Gets Bigger

Introduced in 2012, the Micro .380 ACP set the bar for the
The K6s revolver brings an unmatched level of performance and shootability to concealed carry. With the
smallest cylinder capable of holding 6 rounds of .357
Magnum (also compatible with .38 Special), K6s compact revolvers are ideal for back-up, concealed carry, and
home defense.
The Kimber K6s small frame, two-inch barrel and 1.39inch diameter cylinder are machined from the finest stainless steel for superior integrity, strength, and resistance to
the elements. The Kimber K6s offers other important
design features, such as: a smooth match-grade trigger
that creates confidence while helps ensure accuracy; an
internal hammer and edges that are rounded and blended
to help prevent a hang up when the revolver is removed
from concealment; superior ergonomics and grip design
that creates an extremely shooter-friendly experience;
and an all-stainless steel construction weighing in at 23
ounces. For those who require a small package with mild
recoil, K6s provides the power needed for concealed carry,
home protection and many other applications.
highest quality firearm in its class. This year the Micro 9 joins
its ranks, offering the same highly sought-after small-scale
1911 ergonomics, a single action trigger, superior safety features and all-metal construction.
The Micro 9 barrel and slide is machined from stainless
steel for superior resistance to moisture, while the frame is
shaped from the finest aluminum for integrity and strength.
One of the most important Micro design advantages is a single action trigger with a short, smooth pull that ensures accuracy and confidence. The thumb safety, slide release and
magazine release are pure 1911 in design. Other standard features include a lowered and flared ejection port for flawless
ejection and a beveled magazine well for fast, positive loading.
Sights are steel not plastic and mounted in machined
dovetails for additional durability.
The Micro 9 is currently available in three models: Micro 9
Stainless, Micro 9 Two-Tone and Micro 9 Crimson Carry. Ideal
for any shooter, the Micro 9 will set a new level of expected
quality and shootability to the 9mm micro-compact for concealed carry, everyday carry and home protection.
Company: Kimber
Model: K6
MSRP: $899
Website: www.KimberAmerica.com
Company: Kimber
Model: Micro 9
MSRP: $654
Website: www.KimberAmerica.com
AMERIHIDE IWB CONCEALED CARRY COMFORT

The best choice for most of us in concealed carry is the inside the waistband
holster. If you are searching for a high
quality, handcrafted, Kydex holster you
have come to the right place. Amerihide
holsters are built using the best materials coupled with excellent craftsmanship. This holster features 0.08-inch
thick Kydex, combined with some of the
most durable hardware. The inside-the
waistband-holsters offer retention
adjustment and have a forward cant.

This is a functional and compact holster that snaps smartly onto the belt.
Look for many models available for the
popular concealed carry handguns.
Company: Amerihide Disse Gear
MSRP: $49.99
Website: www.DisseGear.com
5.11 TACTICAL
RAVEN RANGE TIGHT AND CAPRI
TRAVERSE PANT
The next iteration of 5.11s lightweight, ultra-flexible
pant is constructed of a quick-drying, breathable 4-way
stretch fabric. Featuring articulated knees and a fullygusseted inseam and durable water repellent finish, the
Traverse 2.0 pant provides a wide range of movement
and durability. Ten pockets, including some with zip closure, offer optimal gear management. (Available in tundra, khaki, black and storm. Retail price: $94.99.)
Company: 5.11 Tactical
Product: Traverse Pant
MSRP: $94.99
Website: 511tactical.com
Bringing an innovative and tactical perspective on the

popular yoga pant, 5.11 is launching two high-quality pant
options for women the Raven Range Tight and Capri.
Constructed from flexible and comfortable ponte di
roma fabric, both pants have a smooth finish for a sleek
look. Additionally, the new Range Raven pant offers a
wide elastic waistband, belt loops and abrasion-resistant
panels to support and prevent fabric wear with a gun belt
and holster. (Capri available in tundra and black. Retail
price: $89.99. Tight available in tundra and black. Retail
price: $94.99)
Company: 5.11 Tactical
Product: Raven Range
MSRP: $74.99
Website: 511Tactical.com
EAA MKA 1919 MATCH PRO

COMPLETELY REDESIGNED
The MKA 1919 Match is a magazine-fed, semi-auto ARstyle shotgun. IT feeds and functions with 3-inch or 2 3/4inch shells and has been completely redesigned for 2016.
accessory rails. This allows the MKA 1919 Match Pro to run
an assortment of lights, lasers, and vertical grips other
accessories as your mission dictates. The rails are fully com-
Upgrades and improvements include an ambidextrous

safety, extended bolt release, extended magazine release,
redesigned bolt, locking block, and action bar, metal floating feed ramp, two gas rings (light or heavy loads) and an
easy takedown system.
The MKA 1919 Match Pro combines all of the standard
elements of the MKA 1919 Match, but ups the ante with the
addition of a railed aluminum forearm with top and bottom
patible with all Weaver/Picatinny rail accessories. The MKA

1919 Match Pro ships with two 5-round magazines; extended
magazines are available.
Company: European American Armory Corporation
Model: MKA 1919 Match Pro
MSRP: $850
Website: www.EAAcorp.com TW
GUN FIGHTERS
WEAPON
The Accuracy Of AXTS

MI-T300 BLK
Is Of The Charts
BY STRAIGHT 8
n the Pacific Northeast there

exists a weapon R&D facility
unlike any other. It is managed
and run with one purpose only: to
produce the finest weapons and
components in the world. While
this may sound like a secret military installation, it is much more
than that. It is AXTS, and the
products coming out its doors are
nothing short of
world-class.
These are the same mad scientists that

gave us the Raptor charging handle and,
most recently, the freakishly accurate MIT556. While many companies would have
considered this enough success to coast a
while, AXTS has only become more driven.
It is because of that work ethic that a
new masterpiece has emerged from its
lab. It is the crux of what so many serious shooters have sought. It is the MIT300 BLK: the ultimate short-barrel
.300 Blackout.
300
The MI-T300 BLK is built around the
.300 Blackout round. The .300 BLK is
designed to provide the serious punch
of a .30-caliber round while still feeding
reliably in a standard AR platform. It has
gained popularity throughout the last
few years with those that appreciate the
strong balance between weight and
stopping power of this round.
The .300 Blackout has not gone
unnoticed by the worlds militaries. In
July 2015, the Netherlands Defense
Material Organization opened a purchase order for almost 200 carbines
chambered in .300 BLK, which are destined for the Dutch Maritime Special
Operations Forces. This is the first and

certainly not the last official adoption of
the .300 BLK by a military unit.
The .300 BLK market has not gone
unnoticed by the firearms industry,
either. Many companies now are
releasing guns chambered in .300
BLK to meet the demands of customers. AXTS, however, has gone
beyond simply racing to market.
They have built a purpose-driven
weapon designed to be much more
than a range gun. The MI-T300 BLK is
a compact, fight-stopping short-barrel PDW.
Built specifically as an SBR, this new
offering has an immediate home with
those looking for a short-barrel personal
defense weapon chambered in a .30caliber round.
THE BARREL
The MI-T300 BLK is built with an 8.5inch barrel. Even with only 8.5 inches to
work with, AXTS uses precision matchgrade barrels. Formed from Shilen
blanks, they are turned to a custom profile with a 1 in 7 twist.
Barrels are fitted with quality barrel
extensions and feed ramps are hand
polished to ensure reliable feeding of all
ammo. A unique heat sync design
allows the barrel to dissipate heat at an
incredible rate. The barrel is perfectly
mounted into the AXTS precision billet
upper that is built with a titanium forward assist.
Just one of the many unique things
AXTS has done with the MI-T300 BLK is
to recognize the desire to run this SBR
The rifle, which features the

ambi dual action catch, is
small and easy to operate,
says the author.
The MI-T300 BLK is a

compact fight-stopping
short-barrel PDW.
The Schmidt and Bender 1.1-4x20 PM Short-Dot sits atop the MI-T300 Carbine Upper. Black Nitride BCG is
manufactured from case hardened 8620 steel with properly staked
suppressed. Developers put their heads

together with Silencerco and created a
version of its new Omega suppressor.
This can, however, is baffled specifically
for .300 Blackout. The small, light can
makes the perfect add-on to the gun.
UPPER
Inside the upper, the MI-T300s bolt
carrier is born of case hardened 8620

steel. AXTS takes the time to ensure the
4130 gas key is staked properly on every
gun it touches.
Inside, the bolt itself is 9310 case
hardened steel, shot peened, HPT and
MPI tested for quality. The finish is a
self-lubricating, polished black nitride.
Lugs on the bolt are CNC ground follow-
Looking for a short-barrel personal defense

weapon chambered in .30-caliber? If so, take a
close this at this.
The MI-T300 streamlined M-LOK Rail measures

at 8 inches but still ofers enough real estate to
mount PEC Q's and lights.
ing heat treatment to once again help

improve accuracy and reliability.
Topping off the upper is the new AXTS
Freedom Bone charging handle.
Designed by AXTS as an ambidextrous,
gas-reducing charging handle, it is a revolutionary component for those who
prefer to shoot the weapon suppressed.
A unique testing unit was constructed to
test the blowback reduction in the new
design. By the end of that testing, the
Freedom Bone reduced gas blowback by
an incredible 70-percent. AXTS will be
offering these gems separately from the
guns as well.
LOWER
The Talon 45/90 safety is the most diverse safety selector on the market. It allows the shooter to
easily switch from a 90-degree throw to a 45-degree short throw without removing the safety from
the lower.
The billet lower is precisely mated to

the upper. Attention has even been given
to the takedown pins. They are dimpled
to allow for positive indexing when breaking down the gun. Nothing makes a
shooter grit their teeth more than to have
a round or punch slip off the takedown
pin and scratch the gun.
Unique windows assist in heat transfer, allowing the hand guard to stay cool while hammering the trigger.
These are the same mad scientists that

gave us the Raptor charging handle
With the goal of making this a PDWstyle rifle, AXTS has gone to extremes to
build the gun for fighting. This means it
has to be easily capable of being run on
a shooters off side as well as their
strong side. The end product of that
focus is an ambidextrous rifle.
The lower is configured with a rightside dual action bolt catch/magazine
release and right-side bolt release. The
left-side holds a magazine release in
addition to the default controls present
on standard AR lowers. The gun
includes the very popular AXTS Talon
45/90 ambidextrous safety selector.
Finishing the lower is one of the jewels of the gun. AXTS includes a Super
Match Trigger. With minimal take up
and over travel, the bang switch on the
MI-T300 breaks at a clean 3.5 pounds.
Furniture finishing the build comes
from B5 and fits the rifle well.
HOME ON THE RANGE

The general belief regarding any
SBR, especially one with an 8.50-inch

barrel is the sacrifice of accuracy to
size. This philosophy does not exist
inside the walls of AXTS. It took its
same dedication to precision from its
5.56 gun and applied it to this micro
fight stopper. The proof was on the
paper when we hit the range for
some testing.
The rifle was run in its out-of-the-box
configuration. To stay with the theme it
was run suppressed. The optic for the
shoot was the Schmidt and Bender 1.1-4
x 24 Short Dot LE. It rested on a Spur
mount and was zeroed at 100 yards.
Shots were made from prone off of a
backpack. We ran a variety of ammo to

check the guns ability to digest a spectrum of rounds.
First up was Nosler 125-grain Match
Grade. The first group was shot and
then reshot to confirm what we had just
experienced. The group came in at just
more than .5-inch. The theme continued
when we ran the Gemtech 300 BLK 187grain subsonic. Groups with this whisper
quiet ammo were 1-inch on the money.
Last up in the mix was Barnes VOR-TX
110-grain. Like the Nosler before it,
groups were freakishly small. This group
came out as the winner when it measured just less than -inch.
PERFORMANCE
Load
Velocity
Best Group
Nosler 125 grain Match Grade
2250
0.5-inch
Gemtech 300 BLK 187 grain subsonic
1050
1-inch
Barnes VOR-TX 110 grain
2350
0.4-inch
Army veteran and AXTS COO, Eric Andersen drives the MI-T300 like he drives the company, with relentless passion and love for the firearms community.
The simplicity and ease

of manipulations on
the MI-T300 BLK
make other rifles
feel sluggish
and clumsy.
The Raptor charging handle is truly revolutionary in design and function. From rapid palm blading or finger thumb charges of the weapon, the motion is
fluid and fast from either strong or support side.
Find Them
On The Web
SPECIFICATIONS
MI-T300 BLK
WWW.AXTSWEAPONS.COM
8.5" SHELIN 416R 1/7 TWIST
TALON 45/90-DEGREE
AMBIDEXTROUS SAFETY
NEW FREEDOM BONE

VENTED CHARGING HANDLE
TITANIUM FORWARD ASSIST

The MI-T300 BLK is a suppressors dream gun, right down to the Freedom Bone Vented Charging
Handle. The excessive blowback caused by hanging a can on the front is minimized through the
vent for better control.
MAGPUL K2 GRIP
MAGPUL CTR
KNIGHTS ARMAMENT
600M MICRO SIGHTS
PERFECTLY MATCHED 8" RAILED UPPER

AND A-DAC LOWER RECEIVER
COMPLETELY AMBIDEXTROUS A-DAC

(AMBIDEXTROUS DUAL ACTION CATCH)
LOWER RECEIVER
SILENCERCO OMEGA 9K SUPPRESSOR

MARKED WITH MI-T300
The 1.1-4x20 PM Short-Dot model is a combination of a red dot sight/scope developed for the use
at short and medium distances. With a low magnification the Short-Dot may be used like a red dot
sight mirrored in the center of the reticle.
Next we began testing general function, and the benefits of the ambidextrous features began to shine. The
simplicity and ease of manipulation on
the MI-T300 BLK make other rifles
feel sluggish and clumsy. Claims that
this is a gunfighters weapon soon
began to ring true.
Break on the trigger was clean and
crisp. It has a very enjoyable 18-inch
take up and 18-inch reset making it
accurate and fast. In the end the only
complaint we had was that we could
not take it home with us. The MI-T300

BLK is a home run.
WHERE DOES IT FIT?

As we mentioned earlier, this rifle
has a strong lean toward the PDW
world. Its small size and ease of operation blended with accuracy make this
a perfect fit.
The .300 Blackout round has gained
the attention of many in the military
and law enforcement worlds. The
MI-T300 BLK would be an exceptional
addition to any serious tactical team

or federal special purpose unit.
Ammunition is growing in availability and shows a trend toward
expanding even further.
The new offering from AXTS is
more than a dark side gun. It is a
rifle that is within reach of anyone
looking for an accurate and reliable .300 Blackout rifle. The MIT300 BLK is an exceptional rifle
that is light years ahead of the
competition. TW
PLAIN
TO
FANCY
Personalize Your AR-15 With These Accessories
The Colt M4 ofers a good quality handguard from the factory. Other
advantages include excellent quality throughout. Sights and other
accessories are recommended for bonding with the rie.
STORY BY BOB CAMPBELL

PHOTOS BY SPARTAN PHOTO CENTER
he Black Rifle is Americas rifle. It is a bulwark

against terrorists and criminals, as well as a competition and hunting rifle. The original Armalite design
has become an American icon. But you can personalize it.
I have a handful of AR-15 rifles in my family, and I sometimes
ponder that old question If I could have only one? I want a
tactical rifle, but I do not want too much gear hanging on the rail.
In the following story, Ill show you how to do that. Of course,
these are but a few of my top options; there are always more.
The author particularly likes the

Hogue buttstock and ring grip.
Hogue has introduced a

number of excellent
additions to the AR-15
rifle, including targetgrade handguards with
a mounting capacity.
This B5 Systems stock is among the

most popular at Brownells.com.
Personal testing of the Lantac muzzle

brake has shown excellent function.
THE INDIVIDUAL RIFLE

By carefully choosing additions, you
will be able to form a more personal
bond with your rifle. When knocking
down steel targets at 200 yards or getting thrust into a home invasion robbery,
this bond is vital.
You may choose to make the rifle an
ergonomically superior tool for shortrange use or to expend all effort on

long-range perfection. A happy choice
for middle-ground performance is a
profitable solution.
It is important to purchase quality
components. By choosing the best
components and a good combination

of parts is affordable with informed
shopping you will be able to improve
the rifles handling.
But, dont forget to train. You need to
get to the range and fire the rifle often,
and clean and disassemble it. Once you
The author has fitted

this Mission First Tactical stock to his personal .308 caliber AR15 rifle.
FOR MORE INFO

www.Brownells.com
www.MissionFirstTactical.com
www.MagPul.com
www.WilsonCombat.com
www.YHM.net
www.BravoCompanyUSA.com
www.NikonSportOptics.com
The Sharps Rifle Company NP3 coated bolt carrier is well worth its price. This
one was removed from the rifle after a firing session and shows little powder ash
adhering to the surface.
have fired 1,000 rounds or so, you will

have bonded with it and be able to better understand your needs.
AR-15 STOCKS
First, define your purpose and assess
the mission. Do you have short or long
arms? The stock should be durable. A

high-impact polymer seems trouble
free, but the better stocks have the best
rigidity. Mission First Tactical is never a
bad choice in my experience.
Rigidity in a stock is important. I like to
be in control and do not wish the stock
www.SRCarms.com
to waver. A good stock from

Brownells.com my go-to source for
most of my AR-15 parts is the B5 Systems stock with storage components. If
you run optics needing batteries, the B5
Systems will serve double duty by
ensuring you are never caught in the
The Wilson Combat trigger allows

a more consistent, crisp and
controllable trigger compression.
When using the Keymod, it isnt a bad idea to use gloves!
dark.
Likewise, I am particularly impressed
with the Hogue buttstock. Ergonomic
and rugged, the Hogue design is comfortable in extended firing. I like the locking device as well.
Decide if you like the type of release
used for the stock adjustment. The grip
is also personal. Some do not like the
common finger stud as they feel it limits
movement; others want abrasion. The
Hogue grip is popular and works well in
practice. Hogue offers a number of
excellent designs.
MAGAZINES
Magazines are an important consideration. I have used the Brownells Mil Spec
magazine with excellent results. Among
polymer magazines, the MagPul has
earned an excellent reputation. You
need to choose wisely, proof the magazines, and set back a quantity. Magazines are a renewable resource and
should be replaced as necessary.
THE TRIGGER
Hogues target grade rail is a

good option for those
chasing the finest accuracy.
Another replacement that is viable

but demands much thought is the trigger. Factory trigger actions are often
heavy at 6 to 8 pounds. This limits control and accuracy. A crisp single-stage
trigger compression is a great aid in
accuracy, particularly in off hand fire.
The Wilson Combat trigger is a proven
choice that is suitable for Three Gun and
precision shooting. Simple to install and

reliable, this combination has much
merit.
SIGHTS
Some rifles are delivered without
sights. Others have only rudimentary
sights. I learned something about the
durability of backup sights when mounting a set on my .308 rifle they came
apart. At present, the Magpul seems
durable and useful. The Wilson Combat
steel sight is never a bad choice. When
running a tactical firearm, it isnt right- or
left-hand use that matters but forwardor rear-hand (the one in control at the
moment). This means that an ambidextrous safety is important. At present the
Badass seems ideal for tactical use.
HANDGUARDS
Handguards are another important
consideration. If you are going to mount
extensive gear, you need a Keymod type.
One of the most popular from Brownells
is the Yankee Hill Machine SKL. It is light
at only 6.7 ounces, and made from 6061T6 aluminum.
Bravo Company also offers a popular
handguard. Hogue offers a first-class
round forend for those primarily interested in a free-floating, target-grade
handguard. However, the design also
offers some space for mounting combat
lights or lasers. This is good kit.
THINGS TO CONSIDER
1
The added weight must be considered.
Walking 20 feet to the benchrest isnt a
problem, but carrying the rifle all day
could be.
2
Recoil isnt a problem with the AR-15, but
muzzle blast can be more than just problematic in confined quarters. For those of
us who like the .308 caliber AR-15, the LANTAC Dragon muzzle brake goes a long way
in taming the big bore AR rifle.
3
Note excellent abrasion
with the Hogue grip.
This Hogue grip has good adhesion but remains comfortable

during extended ring sessions.
A consistent trigger is more important than

a light trigger, but as time goes on, I find
myself favoring match-grade triggers in the
AR-15 rifle.
OPTICS
You can spend more money on
the optics than the rifle, even when
you are considering a quality rifle. I
have used a number with good
results. The Nikon M 223 features a
reticule designed for long-range use.
The reticule features sighting lines,
represented by a wire below the
middle reticule. These are small ballistic circles that represent the drop
at certain, set yardage. It is a fast
system to learn. I have mated the
Redfield Battlezone to my personal
Colt AR-15 and enjoyed excellent
service.
For mid-range shooting, the Burris
Fast Fire III currently rides on my personal Smith and Wesson M&P rifle.
A self-regulating brightness system
with integrated photocell automatically turns the unit on when the
shooter takes the hard plastic lens
cover off. The dots brightness is
based on ambient light. This is a
decent red dot for the price and it
works for my application.
The Burris Fast Fire 3 red

dot ofers good function
and has given the author
excellent service.
This Battle Rie Company rie is

equipped with a good handguard
ring grip and stock. It also features
a plated bolt carrier. The author
added the Nikon M223 scope.
Yankee Hill Manufacturing

has a long and respected
history with the AR-15 rie.
This rail is good kit.
Bravo Company ofers a

good rail that ofers plenty
of place and repeatable
mounting.
You may choose to make
the rie an ergonomically superior tool

for short-range use or to expend all efort
on long-range perfection.
BOLT CARRIERS
Sharps Rifle Company introduced
its bolt carrier to eliminate any issue
of the bolt carrier group to be pressed

downward during its rearward travel.
SRC used computer design technology
PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene), commonly known as Teflon, for self-lubricating corrosion resistance. NP3 PLUS
with the AR-15 bolt carrier assembly.

The rotational camming of the carrier
during the unlocking portion of the
operational cycle was addressed
along with canting of the bolt carrier
group upon firing. This was due to the
gas pressure exerted to the gas key,
which naturally causes the front of the
bolt carrier group to rise and the rear
coupled with real-world testing to

address both of these issues.
The Sharps BBC is machined from
S7 heat treated steel. The carrier is finished inside and out with NP3/NP3
PLUS to minimize the need for lubricants, to aid in smooth operation, and
to make clean up easy. This process
co-deposits sub-micron particles of
offers corrosion resistance for marine

and other hostile environments.
GET STARTED
These additions to the AR-15 are just
a few of the available parts, optics, and
accessories on the market. Consider
your mission, your needs, your budget,
and choose wisely. TW
Brownells.com ofers rst class Mil Spec magazines well worth stocking up on for your AR-15 rie.
BUYERS GUIDE RED DOT SIGHTS BUYERS GUIDE
SEEING
Faster on target, improved accuracy,

easy use, and perfect for all lighting
conditions, todays red dot sights
are a must have for the beginning
shooter or seasoned operator alike.
BY DAVE DOLBEE
RED
he red dot sight, simply stated, is any sight that

uses a red light-emitting diode (LED) at the focus
end of the optic to generate a dot-style illuminated reticle. The beauty of this aiming system is that
the dot stays in alignment with the weapon regardless
of your eyes position for the most part. Why choose a
red dot? Simple. Red dots offer the fastest target acquisition for target shooting, hunting, self-defense, and
police or military applications.
Although red dot sights are so named because that is the first
color they were commonly offered in, red dots can come in a
variey of colors but typically are offered in red and/or green. The
same can be said of the dot in red dot. Instead of a dot, you
will find several models with chevrons, circles or a combination.
Each has its own advantages depending on the shooter and the
intended purpose. When selecting your aim point, keep that in
mind as well as the size to ensure it serves your primary
intended purpose (self-defense, hunting, etc.).

Fast on target and forgiving to your head/eye position,
makes red dot sights a common upgrade for your tactical
firearm. For example, a 2 MOA dot is easily visible, yet smaller
than the standard front post on iron sights. However, even a 2
MOA red dot is easier to acquire in low light conditions than
iron sights and causes less eyestrain.
WHY RED DOTS WORK
catastrophic failure of the red dot. Popular examples include

Aimpoints H1 and T1 as wells as Trijicons RMR.
Micro Red dots are also a popular accessory on long guns.
By adding riflescope youll extend your accuracy on mediumto long-range targets. However, when using the same setup
for CQB, youll require a co-witness sight. The co-witness may
be mounted over the primary optic or offset to the side. The
gun is then canted as to offer a solid
aim point as entry and clearing operations are conducted.
Red dots offer near unlimited eye

relief, and youll want to keep some
extra distance between your eye and
the sight (compared to a riflescope)
for optimal performance. Glyn
Which red dot is right for you? That
Lower quality
Bindon, Trijicons founder, developed
is a decision youll ultimately have to
the Bindon Aiming Concept or B.A.C.
make. Choose a dot that is too small,
Less reliability
Human vision is based upon a binocuand youll struggle to pick it up quick
Limited features
lar (two eyes) presentation of visual
enough. On the other hand, if the dot
evidence to the brain. Bindon underis too large, youll blot out the target
stood this and discovered that a
and some of its surroundings. Here
bright red dot aided the aiming
are few top tips and models to help
process as much or more than a
you with the decision-making
crosshair. Therefore, a red dot makes
process.
it very easy to keep both eyes open
during the aiming process, because
Durability
the brain merges the two images.
The popular choice for most
Variable brightness
During dynamic movement, the
shooters is a 4 MOA dot. This is a
Increased battery life
scene through the telescope blurs
great compromise for a general-purbecause the image moves more
pose rifle. At 4 MOA, the dot is ideal
Water/fog proof
rapidly due to magnification. The one
for fast acquisition while performing
Color and reticle options
eye sees the bright dot against the
close combat operations (CQB), but
blurred target scene, so the brain
not so large as to hinder engagement
picks the scene from the unaided eye.
of medium-range targets. Smaller
However, as the shooter swings the
dots may also be popular when cenweapon toward the target, he pertered in a larger aiming ring.
ceives the dot indicating where the
Deciding on the size of the dot, cirweapon is pointed. As soon as the
cle, or chevron is important when
weapon begins to become steady in
planning to use it to estimate the
Maximum durability
the target area, the brain switches to
range to the target and holdover.
Lighter weight materials
the magnified view.
Depending on your individual setup,
Variable brightness
Not so many years ago, a red dot
this can keep your shot on center out
was considered a hazard waiting to
to about 400 meters. That is a huge
Ability to compensate
happen. Simply because of Murphys
advantage over iron sights for most
for corrective lenses
Law (anything that can go wrong will
shooters. Youll still need to practice
Multiple colors
go wrong) shooters feared anything
and maintain a record of specific
battery powered. Many LE agencies
holdovers, but that is a small price to
Increased reticle options
still (rightfully) will not authorize an
pay for this type of accuracy
Night vision compatible
officer to use a red dot without a
enhancement.
backup iron sight. That being said, red
dots are more reliable with auto-on
options and battery circuits that offer 5 or more years of conYour optic does not have to exceed the price of a quality
tinuous service.
firearm or require applying for a second home mortgage. HowA local gunsmith builds several handguns with what he
ever, while prices have come down as competition has
calls a SWATy setup. This is where the micro red dot is
increased, you still get what pay in most cases. For plinking or
melted or recessed into the slide. This gives a lower profile
light competition, a low dollar offering more than fills the bill.
and allows the shooter to revert to the iron sights in case of a
$100
(PLINKERS)
PICKING A RED DOT
$300
(HOME DEFENSE, HUNTING,

COMPETITION)
DOT SIZE, RANGE
$301 AND ABOVE
(OPERATORS, SELF-DEFENSE,
LAW ENFORCEMENT, MILITARY)
PRICE
THREE POPULAR FAVORITES

BUSHNELL TROPHY TRS-25
TRIJICON
MRO
The Trijicon
MRO (Miniature Rifle
Optic) is a
sealed miniature
reflex sight intended for
use on rifles, carbines and shotguns to provide fast target
acquisition. The large aperture and tapered light path maximizes the viewing area and allows for better situational
awareness and fast target engagement especially
from non-standard shooting positions. Combine all
this with the ambidextrous brightness controls, sub-flush
adjusters, advanced lens coatings and the fully sealed, waterproof, hard anodized forged 7075-T6 housing and you have
the ultimate mini reflex sight on the market. MSRP $579,
www.Trijicon.com
BURRIS AR-332
The AR-332 is designed for lawmen, military personnel and
competitive shooters who want additional range from a
compact, fast-acquisition optic. The red or green illuminated
reticle offers nanosecond response to immediate targets. It
also allows for careful shooting at distant threats. The rotary,
10-position power selector matches all lighting conditions,
and a CR2032 battery powers the reticle. The Ballistic CQ reticle features holdover dots good out to 600 yards. They work
best with 5.56 or 7.62 ammunition. Picatinny rails allow piggybacking of additional sights, lasers or lights. The Burris Forever Warranty backs the ruggedly designed AR-332. MSRP
$419-599, www.BurrisOptics.com
The Bushnell Trophy Red Dot TRS 1x 25mm Scope is an ultracompact passive red dot gun sight for the committed
shooter. For fast target acquisition and accuracy in dim conditions, theres nothing like a red dot sight from Bushnell.
Each Bushnell Red Dot TRS
Sight series uses the
basic precepts of
every red dot scope
unfailing reliability
and optical precision
and takes them a
step further with
application-specific
features such as tactical turrets for rapid
adjustment in the field.
The Bushnell Trophy Red
Dot TRS-25 Rifle Scope can operate up to 3,000 hours on
one CR2032 battery, making it one of the most reliable
scopes for use in the field. Allowing for accurate shot placement every time, the Bushnell TRS-25 offers a bright red light
for easy acquisition in all lighting situations. MSRP $147,
www.Bushnell.com
TOP CHOICES BY PRICE

$100, MORE OR LESS (STREET PRICE)
BSA 30MM RED DOT SCOPE W/ 5 MOA
The BSA Optics Red Dot Sight is a wonderful budget option for your firearm.
This 30mm optic features a 5 MOA dot and comes in a matte black finish. It
comes with a 1/2 MOA Picatinny mount, and the sight is light enough for
small-caliber plinking, yet durable enough for larger calibers used by hunters
and law enforcement departments. Additional features include: Weaverstyle attachment, 11-position rheostat, 30mm objective lens and 1/2 MOA
adjustment. $25, www.CheaperThanDirt.com
TRUGLO TRU-TEC 30MM RED DOT

The TruGlo Tru-Tec 30mm Red Dot Sight is an excellent choice for
black rifle enthusiasts. The TruGlo Tru-Tec 30mm Red Dot Sight is
well made using high quality components and is built from the
ground up to be reliable, durable and accurate. The illuminated 2
MOA Dot Reticle offers shooters ultra-fast target acquisition with
ultra-precise accuracy. The extra durable design is shock resistant
up to 1000gs and the Tru-Tec is Waterproof and Fog Proof. Either
way, trust TruGlo to help get your next shot on target. $150,
www.MidwayUSA.com
BUSHNELL TROPHY FIRST STRIKE TACTICAL

Quickly and accurately hit your target with the Bushnell First
Strike Tactical red dot. This red dot sight is a great, lightweight
red dot option for your AR-15 or other tactical rifle. It mounts low
on any Picatinny rail and the 5 MOA dot is easy to acquire and
put on target. Features include: 5 MOA red dot, matte finish,
multi coated optics, self-regulating brightness, integrated
mount, and 100% waterproof/fogproof/shockproof construction. $120, www.CheaperThanDirt.com

$300 - $500
BURRIS AR-F3 FLATTOP FASTFIRE

For AR and carbine shooters, Burris offers a complete package with the new AR-F3 Flattop FastFire Sight. This bundles a FastFire III with 3 MOA dot and rugged protective mount thats range-ready right out of the box. Its the simplest and most effective
way to mount the FastFire III on an AR flattop as a standalone sight or as a co-witness for your iron sights. The FastFire sits low
in the mount and a pair of metal wings on each side of the lenses protect the sight from impact or unintentional abuse. For
added convenience, there is a lower compartment for spare battery storage, open-end wrench and Torx wrench. Fits any
Weaver or Picatinny-style base. $299, www.OpticsPlanet.com
TRIJICON RMR REFLEX SIGHT

ILLUMINATED AMBER DOT
The Trijicon RMR (Ruggedized Miniature
Reflex) Reflex Sight is an excellent tool
that improves precision and accuracy
with increased speed of target acquisition. The Trijicon RMR is one of the best
Reflex sights available making this an
excellent addition to the magnified Trijicon ACOGs. The RMR is built from the
ground up to stand up to the rigors of
extreme duty and combat use while still
holding zero for the utmost reliability and
durability. The addition of the innovative
adjusters with audible clicks allows
shooters to quick-change windage and
elevation adjustments on the fly. The Trijicon RMR is truly for the discerning
shooter who wants the very best and
refuses to accept anything but. $439,
www.CheaperThanDirt.com
VORTEX OPTICS RAZOR

Compact LED red dot sights provide
fast, both-eyes-open sighting without
concern for parallax simply place the
dot on the target, and pull the trigger for
accurate short- to mid-range shots. The
one-piece aluminum chassis is waterproof and shockproof to withstand the
recoil of pistols, rifles, and shotguns.
Wide-Field glass lens that delivers
excellent edge-to-edge brightness for
an extremely clear sight picture. Ultrahard, scratch-resistant coating protects
the highly polished, anti-reflective lens.
High-intensity, unlimited-eye-relief center dot available in 3 MOA or 6 MOA
dot sizes features 10 brightnessintensity settings that enable use in any
lighting conditions. Comes with a builtin mount for MIL-STD 1913 Picatinny rail
installation; handgun slide mounts sold
separately. $499, www.Brownells.com

$600 AND UP
AIMPOINT MICRO T-2
The Micro T-2 redefines everything you thought you knew
about compact red dot sights. Inside the completely new
sight housing are advanced optical lenses that takes optical
performance to a new level. Cutting-edge lens coatings radically improve the shape and clarity of the 2 MOA red dot
especially when used with an accessory magnifier. Built to
offer the same battle-proven ruggedness as other Aimpoint
products, the Micro T-2 performs reliably under extreme conditions while adding negligible weight to your weapon. Suitable for use on rifles, carbines, shotguns, submachine guns,
or handguns. The Aimpoint Micro T-2 is ideal as a standalone
sight, and thanks to its small size, it can also be piggybacked
on top of larger magnifying scopes, night vision, or thermal
imaging optics. $750, www.MidwayUSA.com
LEUPOLD CARBINE OPTIC (LCO)

When it comes to optics and firearm sights, no one is more
respected than Leupold. The Leupold Carbine Optic (LCO)
is a dream come true for carbine operators. The compact
1x red dot sight gives you natural, rapid target acquisition.
The LCOs 1-MOA Dot reticle has 16 brightness settings to
let you find the exact intensity you need in any conditions.
At its highest setting, the dot will shine bright in the middle
of the day, and it is night vision compatible on lower settings. The manual push-button on/off switch with integrated brightness control puts all the power at your fingertips. Using a common CR123A 3v Lithium battery, the LCO
has a battery life of up to 5 years. The machined aluminum
body provides the utmost in durability and the MOA
adjustments make sighting in fast and easy. $850,
www.CheaperThanDirt.com
Red dots ofer near unlimited eye relief, and

youll want to keep some extra distance
between your eye and the sight.
LAR-15 IRS MID IRS1815X

with RRA Operator CAR Stock
MSRP: $1565*
EOTECH EXPS 3/4

EOTechs EXPS 4 features a shortened
base that only requires 2.75 inches of rail
space. The reticle comprises a 6.5-MOA
ring with 1-MOA aiming dot. The EXPS 4
is waterproof, submersible to 33 ft. and
features a run time is approximately
600 hours on one lithium battery. Unlike
other models in the EXPS line, the EXPS
3 and EXPS 4 are night vision compatible. $629, www.Cabelas.com TW
THE TACTICAL
ADVANTAGE
WHEN YOU CARRY,
INCREASE YOUR ODDS OF SURVIVAL
BY MASTERING THE MOVES
IN THESE 4 ATTACK SCENARIOS
STORY AND PHOTOS BY SUZANNE MULLEN
he right of self-defense is
among the most basic of
human rights.
Depending on what state you live in,
you may be able to obtain a CCW permit. However, having the law on your
side and a CCW permit does not necessarily translate into good situational
awareness, quick reactions, solid
weapons-handling skills or a good out-
come in the event of a violent attack.

However, planning for and training
yourself to respond effectively to a
threat in several common scenarios can
vastly improve your chances of surviving
and eliminating the threat, which is why
we asked long-time concealed carry
weapons instructor Allen Black of
Fayetteville, NC for his advice on dealing
with potential threat scenarios.
SCENARIO 1
Youre walking in a park or isolated urban area, descending
a flight of steps and an attacker confronts you.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

MINDSET: If you dont think you can use deadly force, dont
carry a loaded weapon.
CLOTHING: Wear a loose shirt or jacket that allows you to
easily access your weapon. Its best to sew a small weight into
the hem of the shirt, so when you sweep it back it will swing
out of the way and not interfere with the draw. Loose change
in a jacket pocket also works well.
PRACTICE: Run through this scenario, drawing and firing with
an unloaded weapon, until you can do it smoothly in 2-4
seconds.
A loose shirt with coins or weights sewn in the bottom seam allows for a
quick sweep access to your holstered weapon.
How To Reach Him

NAME
Allen Black, NC carry conceal instructor
EMAIL
Advantage@TacticalConcealedTraining.com
Eyes remain on the threat as you transition from condition yellow to

condition red.
Establish a strong master grip with your firing hand, as your support hand
rises simultaneously to form a clamshell.
carrying a concealed weapon is an

enormous
responsibility that requires
you to know your own skill set
Bring the pistol up to your field of vision to acquire the sights without losing sight of the threat.
Rather than wearing your gun on your belt where

seatbelts and clothing can interfere, consider one
of these easily accessible attachments.
SCENARIO 2
Driving in a vehicle and facing an attempted robbery or carjacking.

MINDSET: Always be aware of your surroundings when
stopped at a light, parked, or driving slowly through an alley or
behind stores where an attacker can surprise you. Think about
how an assailant might attack, and be aware of what is
around or behind the target.
CLOTHING: Dont carry on your person where interference
from a seatbelt or your elbow hitting the seat can occur. As
you attempt to draw, you don't want anything to hinder your
ability to access your weapon.
VEHICLE ATTACHMENTS: Consider a gun magnet which can
be easily mounted near the steering wheel for a quick
grab/draw.
Establish a strong master grip with your firing hand.
The Sources Bio

Allen Black is well-versed and experienced in multiple areas of instruction. His
training includes counter-insurgency warfare, certification in scout, tracker and
wilderness survival disciplines; urban
escape and evasion; Survival Evasion Resistance Escape (SERE) training; search and
rescue (SAR) tracking, primitive wilderness
survival, sniper field craft, force protection,
combat and pursuit tracking.
He has trained with elite military units
from all major branches of the U.S. military
(SEALs, Rangers, Force Recon), as well as
major federal and state law enforcement
units.
Additionally, Allen is an international
firearms instructor and holds several NRA
certifications, including carry conceal
instructor.
BY THE NUMBERS
43
The number of states
that are right to carry states
36
The number of states that are shall
issue states in which anyone without a
criminal record will be issued a permit
7
The number of states that require
no permit to carry a concealed weapon
7
Establish support against your body as your eyes remain on the threat.
The number of states that are

may issue where it is nearly impossible
to obtain a CCW permit.
SCENARIO 3
While walking to your car, an attacker
confronts you from behind.

In this scenario, traditional advice has
been to clasp your keys like a weapon to
strike an attacker, or to throw them far
away from you in hopes of giving yourself time to run. This assumes the attack
is a carjacking. What if its a violent personal assault or a kidnapping? Never
carry your keys in your gun hand; always
keep them in your support hand.
Instead of turning away from your car
to confront the attacker, immediately
turn inside and either drop or throw your
keys directly at him with your support
hand, while simultaneously drawing your
weapon with your gun hand.
If you are carrying groceries, a purse,
workout bag, laptop etc., use it as a
weapon of distraction and hurl it as hard
and quickly as possible at your attacker.
Never carry anything in your firing hand and

stay alert to potential threats.
Turn inside to face the threat.
SCENARIO 4
Entering or exiting your car when an
attacker is close enough to grab you.

You are at your most vulnerable
entering or exiting your vehicle. Knowing
your surroundings, noticing whos
around you and their body language and
staying in the condition yellow cautionary awareness is crucial.
If someone approaches you under the
ruse of asking for directions, spare
change, etc. and manages to get hands
on you, push or kick violently against the
attacker to offset his balance enough so
you can access your handgun and shoot
from retention. This is when having the
proper gear is critical. A holster that
allows your gun to fall out or is too difficult for you to manipulate under pressure could prove disastrous.
Be very aware of your vulnerability entering or exiting a vehicle.
Find Him On the Web

www.TacticalConcealedTraining.com
In one smooth movement, sweep aside your loose shirt or jacket and draw. Drop your keys and throw whatever youre carrying directly at the threat.
THE TACTICAL ADVANTAGE

Ultimately, carrying a concealed
weapon is an enormous responsibility
that requires you to know your own skill
set and be prepared to use deadly force
(carrying a round in the chamber). You
must also have good weapons-handling
instruction so you dont become a victim of your own gun; practice regularly
at the shooting range until acquiring a
sight picture, drawing and firing is committed to muscle memory; staying in the
yellow cautionary mindset; and
rehearsing every step so if the time
came you could maintain the tactical
advantage that saves your life.
Take advantage of your rights. TW
If an attacker closes the distance quickly, push or kick violently away as you draw your weapon,
keeping your arm close to your body for support.
Suzanne Mullen is a resident of North

Carolina and a frequent contributor to
Engaged Media publications
a CCW permit does not necessarily translate into good situational awareness,
quick reactions, solid weapons-handling skills
TACTICAL
FITNESS
As Demands On Warriors
Increase, the Importance of
Conditioning, Endurance
and Strength Rise
STORY BY BRET PERCHALUK

PHOTOS BY ERIC COLEMAN
actical fitness. What does this mean?

Well, for starters we need to determine what
makes something tactical. In the sense of fitness,
tactical can be summed up as anything that increases
the athletic ability of operators to perform their tactical
duties. That being said, who can benefit from tactical
fitness? This can range from the prospective operator,
to the current high-speed tactical warrior, and even
more so the salty, proven, veteran operator that is still in
the game and boasting a reputation of epic proportions.
As the demands on tactical operators become more intricate, understanding the elements required to implement a
successful tactical fitness program become more crucial.
The modern warrior, whether law enforcement or military, is
being tasked with more and more operational requirements.
The days of being a specialist are over, and the days of being
a specialist of any and all mission requirements has taken
hold. This has changed the way in which operators need to
train. They are now, more than ever, endurance athletes
mixed with strength and conditioning phenoms.
Determining the needed type(s) of training requires a

focus on the operator and the mission or assignment. Metabolic conditioning, coupled with endurance and strength, can
be tricky but absolutely necessary for the success of anyone
aspiring to become a tactical operator as well as current
high-speed personnel. Functional movement, flexibility, and
endurance can be achieved in various ways, yet the work
smarter not harder adage is paramount to the modern operators success.
Here is a guide to a few choice exercises that can take ones
current tactical fitness regimen to the next level in order to
ensure sound tactical fitness and superb operational execution. Incorporate these exercises into your current routine or
develop a new routine around them. They will not only help
with metabolic conditioning, but will increase flexibility. The
flexibility will in turn reduce the risk of injury during training
and operational deployment, as well as increase the strength,
balance, and coordination of the practitioner. All of these
movements/lifts help to strengthen and protect the spine in
addition to various other benefits for the operator.
EXERCISE 1
1
Lie on your back, one leg up, and hold a kettlebell in one hand.
Posting with the opposite arm, lock the shoulder down and away from
the ear.
3
Slowly start to get up. Bring
your leg underneath your hips
and sit back into the hips like a
hinge. Stabilize yourself using a
posted hand on the floor and
sitting into the heel.
Lift your torso straight while

locking the spine and arm,
centering your body over the
hips. Windshield wiper the
shin to get into a sort of lunge
position.
Move to your knees while you hold the kettlebell over head and support yourself with your left hand.
NOTES & TIPS

1
Shoulder, hip, trunk and ankle mobility are the foundation for the
get-up, and the stability of these joints are fundamental and
worked in a harmonious manner. Transitions occur in various planes
of movement while you stabilize a heavy load ... just like in operational activities.
2
Neutral wrist position is important while holding the bell. Keep a
locked arm throughout the movement, a neutral spine and/or
maintain strong posture (shoulders away from ears, no rounded
back).
3
Keeping your arm locked out tight and stable, stand up to. Keep your
spine straight and elongated with your arm locked.
Rewind the exact movements to get to the floor and start over on the
opposite side.
Using diaphragmatic breathing under load and tension is crucial.

This helps you to maintain posture. This movement will help train
you to move and change levels seamlessly while maintaining balance, even under a heavy gear load out or under arduous conditions
like in a maritime environment.
EXERCISE 2
1
Bret Perchaluk starts with

the kettlebell on the ground
in front of him. Make sure you
keep a neutral back and neck.
While keeping his legs bent, he

swings the kettlbebell between his
legs. Make sure the bell is at or above
knee level between the legs. As the
bell comes forward the arms are
straight. Imagine throwing the bell
away and towards the wall rather
than swinging the bell upward. This
ensures that the bell is swinging and
not being pulled upward.
Stand upright as you extend the bells straight in front of you.
He returns the kettlebell to the floor and repeats.
NOTES & TIPS

1
The kettlebell swing is a ballistic exercise that demands posterior chain
recruitment, trunk stability and synergy.
2
To properly and safely execute the swing, you must maintain a neutral
spine and load your hips properly via a hip hinge. The swing is explosive,
promoting powerful acceleration of the hips to a strong tall locked position where there is a moment of relaxation during the float of the kettlebell. This synergy of tension and relaxation also requires linkage in
the body. Strong and stable joints encourage the body to remain linked,
maintaining the integrity of the movement so power is not lost. This
movement works the cardiovascular system in addition to the muscular
and nervous system.
3
Explosive movement, cardiovascular conditioning and posterior chain
work are all needed to stay operationally sound. Focusing on concentrating the proper pop of the hips and locking of the core and leg muscles at the top of each movement will ensure you tax your body to the
fullest. This will give you more tactical endurance in a shorter timeframe in comparison to traditional means of working out.
EXERCISE 3
1
Grab both bells canted so your knuckles are facing inward.
In an upward swinging motion, pretend to

zipper a coat.
Hike the bells just like in the swing motion.
Bring both bells inward and upward and rack them at the top of the collar bone. The bells will be on
the outer forearm and the elbows pinned to the ribcage.
This shows the exercise from a diferent angle. Stand tall with your shoulders pulled away from your ears and the bells locked. Walk around a set path
for a set amount of time. For example, do 10 x 30-second walks.
NOTES & TIPS

1
Kettlebell Rack Carries is a phenomenal exercise to heavily load the body while working to
maintain a strong posture and neutral spine. Trunk stability is a must. The goal is to protect the
spine with a strong posture and hold the load while slowly walking. The upper back is essential
in maintaining a neutral spine.
The excessive load will also challenge your breathing, and you must learn to slow your
breathing down so that you can relax the shoulders down (no elevation) and allow the weight
to sink through your body as you work to maintain a neutral spine.
Carrying and working under heavy load and learning to operate in these conditions without
stress (elevated shoulders, increased respiration, etc.) is a must. This exercise mimics the heavy
carriers and plates operators wear. The excessive weight of plates, plus the load out on the
chest, adds stress to the core and spine. This exercise addresses that, as well as mimics the
hands being on a raised weapon for an extended period of time. This not only gives you spinal
endurance and protection in a short amount of time, it also ensures the arms and shoulders are
getting work so that maneuvering with a weapon for extended periods becomes simple.
Whether you are looking to take your

overall fitness to the next level or become
an operator on a team, taking care of your
operational needs must be started at the
core fitness level. Even the best shooter or
team leader needs to be able to stay in the
fight no matter how much fatigue or stress
sets in. Being fit will offset and delay the
detriment that comes with the demands of
the job! TW
SPECIAL THANKS
The photos were shot at Performance 24, on

the web at www.PurePerformance24.com.
You can also contact them via email at
info@pureperformance24.com.
Bret is wearing MTMs Gray Falcon watch. MTM

is on the web at www.SpecialOpsWatch.com.
Forget the movies! When reality

strikes, you need to grab your
firearm with your strong hand,
and keep your support hand out
of the way but at the ready to
clear a support garment, move a
civilian out of the way or elbowstrike an attacker.
YESTERDAY IS OVER:
TRAINING WITH A
PURPOSE
Making the Move from Recreational to Defensive Shooter

STORY BY STEVEN LIEBERMAN
PHOTOS BY HENRY DE KUYPER
walk boldly into the air-conditioned indoor gun range. With my support
hand, I carry my tan range bag covered with PVC morale patches. This
is a routine. It is training time, a dedicated part of the week where I
focus intently on the front site. At various distances, I engage paper targets. With each shot, I bring my firearm to the low ready and peer into the
distance. I smile coolly as I realize the last nine shots have blown out the
X-ring of the target.
After two more shots, the gun goes to
training sessions. When we train, we
slide lock. I carefully lay the firearm on
train with a purpose. Whether that purthe plastic bench in the bay. I remove
pose is performance at a tactical range
the magazine and begin to load for the
or dry-fire practice at home, we always
next string.
train with a purpose.
We are tactical shooters! Well, perhaps we should be, but we are not
today. What I just described serves for
In the movies, you see the hero grab
the vast majority of us as practice,
the gun with his strong hand. The heros
and is the definition of recreational
support hand dangles casually,
shooting. Tactical, or defensive shoottelegraphing to the audience just how
ing, is something entirely different. Make
uber cool he really is. Do not, under any
no mistake; there is nothing wrong with
circumstances, mimic this.
recreational shooting. Some are perThe reality is, if a threat manifests
fectly content to whack away at a paper
from anywhere within 21 feet of you,
target in a controlled environment.
(some police departments have
For those of us who carry guns as
extended this to 30 feet) going for your
tools for self-defense, we must demand
gun as a primary weapon against the
something far more dynamic from our
assailant is most likely a recipe for
THE PRESENTATION
Steven Lieberman is a firearms and

tactics instructor for law enforcement
and legally armed civilians. He is a useof-force Attorney and co-owner of the
Artemis Defense Institute in Lake Forest,
California.
X marks the spot, but you dont want to wait

for the bad guy to shoot at a static target. Practice your angles and movement and make it as
hard as possible for your opponent to get a
clear shot.
disaster. Either use your support hand to

break away your concealment garment,
and/or use the elbow of your support
hand as an impact weapon against the
zombie that is closing the distance.
Whatever you do, get your support hand
out of the line fire.
Once the gun has broken leather (or
Kydex), the chance of you fixing your
grip is slim to none. So, it will be critical
for you to secure a solid grip on your
firearm while it remains holstered on
your hip. A correct master grip consists
of the hand high in the tang with the
index finger running straight down the
holster. You must achieve a master grip
while the gun is still holstered. As the
gun is lifted from the holster, the index
finger naturally falls along the slide
not on the trigger.
Pull the gun straight up. Once the
muzzle clears the holster, rotate toward
the target with the gun canted about 10
to 15 degrees away from your body. Ok
folks, back to basics. Remember those
four rules of firearm safety Col. Jeff
Cooper created? 1. Treat all firearms as
though they are loaded. 2. Never let the
muzzle cover or point at anything you
are not willing to destroy. 3. Keep your
finger off the trigger unless your sights
are on target and you have made the
decision to shoot. 4. Know your target
and its environment.
Lets focus on Firearm Rule #3 for a
bit: Keep your finger off the trigger
unless your sights are on target and you
have made the decision to shoot. From
this position, your sights are in fact on
target. (Your eyes might not be behind
your sights, but rule # 3 doesnt mention
your eyes.) If the goblin is standing three
feet in front of you, you will hit him.
Bring both hands together, and form a
stable two-handed grip while the gun is
still close to the body. The reality is, the
closer the gun is to your body, the
greater the amount of retention control
you will have. If you draw out to the target with your strong hand, then thrust
your support hand to grab the gun when
You have to be more than a good shot you have

to be in good shape. This means being ready to
move, run, kneel or crawl when necessary to get
the shot and present a minimal target.
it is fully extended, you are seriously

compromising your control of the
weapon. Yes, the bad guy might be able
to take it away. More likely though, my
chief concern would be the 600 screaming people running past me that can
knock my sidearm out of my hand. Keep
it in tight until both hands have it secured.
Now that youve got both paws on the
gun, press it toward the target. This is
where people tend to get spun up. Several students Ive taught have a strange
desire to point the gun toward the sky
before bringing the sights down on target. This is both goofy looking and inefficient. I want to retain the ability to start
cranking off rounds as I press toward
the target. If instead I point my gun
toward the heavens, I would need to
take my finger off the trigger (remember
rule #3). My wife has her students imagine a gondola going up mountain. As it
goes up in altitude, the attitude of the
gondola does not change. Regardless of
how you conceptualize it: keep the muzzle pointed at the target.
RELOADING
With the gun out of the holster, there
are two ways to reload. I can either do a
tactical reload, because I have time and
opportunity, or a combat reload some
call it a speed or emergency reload
because my gun went dry, and I have to
reload immediately.
At an indoor range, we often see the
recreational shooter laying the gun on
the bench and loading a magazine.
Then, with the gun at about waist level,
they look down and insert the magazine
before using their thumb and forefinger,
with the ejection port pointing up, to
pull back on the slide and let it fly forward. This method is sometimes
referred to as a slingshot method
because you use your thumb and forefinger to pull back on the slide the same
way you would pull on a sling shot. This
is not exactly an idea way of manipulating your firearm.
Here is the deal. We need to build
muscle memory. Every action you take

with your gun is putting another deposit
into that muscle memory bank. If you
practice taking your eyes off the target
and looking down at your gun in practice, you are going to do that in a gunfight as well. The same goes with that
silly slingshot method. That is a fine
motor skill that may work for you in
combat, but then again it may not. I
dont like may not. Every time I manip-
ulate my firearm, I make a deposit of

gross motor skills into my muscle memory bank.
I want my eyes to be on the target at
all times. I want the gun in front of me in
my workspace. I want to access my new
magazine before I remove the magazine
from my firearm. (If I still have a few
rounds in my magazine, why would I
take those rounds from my gun leaving
only the one in the chamber only to
Every time you step on the range,

be prepared to be the gunfighter.
You are working your mindset as
much as your shooting skills.
Situational awareness can be the diference between life and death. In a confrontation, you will be focused on the primary threat. However, you cannot
forget there may be others. At the end of every shooting string, scan 360 degrees for additional threats before holstering.
discover my full magazines fell out of

my pouch 30 feet back?) First, I secure
the new source of ammo. Then, I execute a tactical reload.
The same goes for the combat or
speed load. As soon as I know I have a
new source of ammunition, Im going
to dump the empty magazine and
clear a path for the new magazine.
Once the magazine is seated, Im
going to come over the top of the gun
and power stroke the round into the
chamber. Again, using my slide stop
to release the slide and chamber the
round may look cool, but it will not
always work, especially if Im wearing
gloves or suffering from a lack of fine
motor skills. I prefer to practice, and
drive into muscle memory, skills that
will always work regardless the circumstance.
SCANNING
MOVEMENT
At an indoor range, you have a single

target in front of you. In the real world,
we assume bad guys travel in packs and
can be all around you. Finish every
shooting string by bringing your weapon
back to a retention position and scanning for additional threats, as well as, a
better position to occupy.
The next time you go to an indoor
range, watch the other shooters on the
line. Most simply put their weapons
down on the bench and begin to reload.
A couple will quickly reload the gun in
their workspace (if it has gone dry) and
then look around over their shoulders.
These guys may look funny, but they are
most likely the ones who actually know
what they are doing. They are reinforcing their training to scan for additional
threats.
For an indoor range, movement is difficult and I get that. So, train for movement
at an outdoor range. X marks the spot on
a stage where the actor is expected to
stand and take advantage of the best
lighting. Youre not an actor; youre a gunfighter. Get off the X, draw your firearm,
and engage your targets.
The last thing I ever want to do, is get
into a duel with someone and see which
of us can hemorrhage the other one out
first. I want to make it as difficult as possible for the thug to hit me. Striking a moving target is a helluva lot more difficult to
accomplish than hitting a static one.
Therefore, I want to be a moving target. If
the moron wants to stand in one place
and let me hit him, that is a bonus for me. I
want to practice getting to cover, or at the
very least, getting out of his sight picture.
On the range, shooters often want to drop a

mag into their hand and secure it in a pouch to
keep it from dings or from getting dirt inside.
Reality is unforgiving. Drop it and go immediately to a fresh mag to get back into the fight.
MALFUNCTIONS
I once watched a guy get frustrated
while shooting. He was having a slew of
malfunctions. Each time, he would stop,
curse, and stare at his gun as if trying to
figure out what was going on. Eventually,
he concluded there was one particular
magazine that was causing his issues. As
he left the range, he tossed the magazine into the trash. I retrieved the magazine and chased the guy down. I told him
to consider this magazine gold.
Yes, the magazine induced malfunctions. He should be thrilled that he now
has such a training tool. I instructed him
to paint the magazine, or use a Sharpie
to differentiate it from his other magazines. (The last thing he would ever
want to do was use it in a defensive situation.) However, as a training tool this
crappy magazine is fantastic! If we have
a malfunction on the range, we should
aggressively clear it, and get back into
the fight.
Once he has concluded his string,
scanned, and returned his firearm to the
holster, he can look up and be thankful
someone once smiled on him. The malfunctioning magazine gives him you the
opportunity to reinforce a necessary skill
Even a malfunctioning magazine can be a godsend. Practice your clearing drill so it will be
automatic in a high-pressure situation.
Practice your dry-fire drills until you have

developed a master grip that you can repeat
consistently. In a real situation, you will not
have time to readjust after clearing the Kydex.
malfunction clearance in a controlled practice environment, rather then

dealing with it for the first time in the
middle of a gunfight.
At the Artemis Defense Institute we
tell our students, yesterday you were a
recreational shooter. Yesterday is over.
From this point on, you are gunfighters.
You need to train with this in mind, and
you must constantly be training. Training
not so much to become expert marksman, but rather training for the possibility
you will have to demonstrate a mastery
of skill at arms in the most violent of contexts. You must not train to impress others at the range; you must train to survive
a deadly force encounter. TW
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LIGHTER,
STRONGER,
BETTER
THE DANIEL DEFENSE DD5V1 7.62x51
(.308) CALIBER AR-10/AR-1- STYLE RIFLE
STORY AND PHOTOS BY RICHARD SCHUTZ
ith the introduction of the DD5V1 7.62x51 (.308) AR-style rifle, Daniel Defense takes its design
and production of strong, yet lightweight, AR-15-style rifles and applies it to the AR-10 platform; thus, creating a compact, strong, yet lightweight battle rifle chambered for the 7.62x51
cartridge.
When Daniel Defense designed the DD5V1, its goal was to create a whole new evolution of the AR-10 platform.
Daniel Defense did this using innovative advances in materials, coatings and a performance-driven design. In the past,
Daniel Defense chambered its AR-15 platform for the .300 Blackout cartridge in order to rectify what some operators
believed to be a lack of stopping power with the 5.56x45 cartridge. This time, the engineers at Daniel Defense created
a whole new platform based upon the AR-10 design using the 7.62x51 cartridge.
The author demonstrates how the small diameter of the Keymod

rail allows even someone with small hands to get a good grip in
order to drive the rifle when in a dynamic situation.
SPECIFICATIONS
MANUFACTURER
Daniel Defense
WEBSITE
www.DanielDefense.com
MODEL
DD5V1
CALIBER
7.62x51 (.308 Win.)
BARREL
This is a bench setup for testing the DD5V1; bullet velocities were determined using a LabRadar unit.
16-inch, cold hammer forged,

1:11-inch 4-groove rifling
MUZZLE DEVICE
Daniel Defense
Superior Suppression Device (SSD)
TRIGGER
Geissele SSA, Two-stage
GAS SYSTEM
Mid-length direct impingement
RAIL SYSTEM
Keymod style rail
with 1913 Mil-Std rail at 12 oclock
SIGHTS
Removable, adjustable front and rear
OVERALL LENGTH
33 3/8 to 37 inches
WEIGHT
8.3 pounds (unloaded)
WARRANTY
100% satisfaction guarantee against
defects in original materials and workmanship
MSRP
$2,899
OPERATION/SPECIFICATIONS
The barrel is cold hammer forged
from proprietary chrome-moly vanadium steel for durability and corrosion
resistance. The rifling is 4-groove with a
1:11-inch twist rate. The barrel extension
flange is oversize for a greater connection surface area with the upper
receiver to increase rigidity, stability,
strength, and accuracy. The barrels
feed ramp is extended to improve feeding. A mid-length gas system is used,
and a Daniel Defense Superior Suppression Device (SSD) flash suppressor
is provided.
The upper receiver is machined from
7075 aircraft-grade aluminum and provides a 20-percent increase in barrel
support to match the oversized barrel
extension flange. A four-bolt connection is used for increased stability and a
uniform connection between the rail,
barrel, and upper receiver. No barrel nut
is used to attach the barrel to the upper
receiver. Instead, the four bolts used to
attach the rail to the receiver clamp the
barrel in place. A polymer ejection port

cover is provided for lighter weight.
The DD5V1 comes standard with a
15-inch Keymod rail system. This rail
provides a full-length Mil-Std 1913 rail
at the 12 oclock position for flexibility in
mounting fixed sights, BUIS, optics, or
any combination thereof. Removable
adjustable front and rear sights are provided. Keymod mounting slots are provided at 45, 90, 180, 270, and 315
degrees. The Keymod rail is smaller and
lighter than traditional Mil-Std 1913
rails, yet allows full flexibility to mount
any accessories on five of the seven
remaining surfaces.
The bolt carrier group is machined
from ANSI 9310 VIM-VAR high-strength
alloy steel, giving it exceptional surface
hardness and strength for greater durability. The cam pin is oversized for additional strength and fits into a blind hole
in the bolt, which adds strength to the
bolt in an area that is a common failure
point. Dual AR-15 ejectors are used in
place of a single ejector for greater dura-
What do you get for your hard-earned money? Along with the rifle with sights, the buyer receives a hard plastic case with foam inserts (unfortunately,
it is not large enough to hold the rifle with a scope mounted), long and short levers for the selector/safety, long and short handles for the charging handle, a thick butt pad to replace the standard one installed on the rifle, 20-round magazine, instruction manual, and a tube of Loctite.
The author fires the DD5V1 from a sandbag rest during accuracy testing.
Velocity and Group Sizes for Loads Fired at 100 Yards

VELOCITY
Ammunition
A Troy 1913 Mil-Std rail section is mounted in

Keymod slots using a hex wrench.
bility and positive ejection of spent casings. Both the bolt and bolt carrier are
coated with a proprietary finish that has
a very low coefficient of friction and provides corrosion resistance. The firing pin
retaining pin is captive, and by far the
best retaining pin I have ever seen in an
AR-style rifle.
A modular, ambidextrous charging
handle is provided. Both large and small
handles are supplied so the operator
can configure the charging handle to
their preference. A ball-detent is used to
lock the charging handle in-place
rather than the standard latch which
can break or wear out quickly.
The lower receiver is machined from
aircraft-quality 7075-T6 aluminum. The
magazine release, bolt release, and
safety/selector are all ambidextrous.
The bolt lock function can only be
accessed from the left side due to the
design of the bolt release mechanism.
A QD attachment point is located at the
rear of the lower receiver. The trigger
guard is oversized to allow operation
when wearing gloves, and the magazine
well is beveled for smooth magazine
changes.
Ave. Vel.
GROUP SIZE
E.S.
S.D.
Lg.
Sm.
Ave.
Hornady American
Whitetail #8090;
150-grain Interlock*
2486
279
83.3
1.884
1.020
1.406
Hornady Super
Performance #80933;
150-grain SST
2735
23
9.5
2.056
0.910
1.612
SAKO Super
Hammerhead #235A;
150-grain Bonded S.P.
2671
24
7.3
1.772
0.874
1.254
Winchester Razorback
XT; 150-grain Profile
Protected H.P.
2475
50
16.6
3.340
1.290
2.272
Barnes Vor-Tx;
168-grain Tipped TSX BT
2419
49
15.5
1.585
0.855
1.338
Black Hills Gold Match;

168-grain Barnes
Triple Shock
2484
65
18.0
1.895
1.405
1.638
Federal GM308M;
168-grain Sierra MK BTHP
2435
25
8.4
1.585
1.090
1.352
Hornady Match #8096;

168-grain A-Max
2422
66
21.0
1.918
1.173
1.460
Hornady #8097;
168-grain BTHP Match**
2433
82
24.3
1.300
0.762
0.954
Norma Match 308;

168-grain Sierra MK BTHP
2422
43
14.3
1.435
0.500
1.152
Silver State Armory;

168-grain SSA HPBT
2397
47
15.3
1.693
1.190
1.374
Federal Lake City Match N,

AMM-721; 175-grain
Sierra BTHP
2300
170
54.8
2.297
1.690
1.907
E.S. - Extreme Spread; S.D. - Standard Deviation; Lg. - largest group in inches; Sm. - smallest group in inches;
Ave. - average group size for five five-shot groups. Notes: 1.) Velocity recorded is at the muzzle. 2.) Distance to
target was 100 yards. 3.) Average Velocity is for 10 consecutive shots in feet per second.
One round of Hornady #8090 was approximately 250 fps slower than the other nine rounds.
**One round of Hornady #8097 was called as pulled and was deleted from the group; therefore, only four
shots were counted in the group.
The Geissele SSA 2-stage trigger provided a smooth take-up, a clean, crisp
break, and short reset. Using a Lyman
digital electronic trigger pull gauge for 10
pulls of the trigger, I found that the first
stage averaged 3 pounds, 6 ounces and
the second stage broke at an average of

5 pounds, 1 ounce.
Daniel Defense-designed furniture was
used and provided a good feel and grip as
well as plenty of durability. The operation
of the stock-length adjustment latch did
Short and long levers for selector/safety.
take a little getting used to because it

operates the opposite of most traditional
latches. One Magpul PMAG 20-round
SR-25-style magazine is included.
The MSRP of the DD5V1 is $2,899.
These rifles have been available since
the end of October 2015, but dont
expect to find them sitting on the rack
at your local gun shop for long.
Sample targets at 100 yards.
Daniel Defense DD5V1 Versus the Field

MANUFACTURER
BARREL LENGTH
(IN INCHES)
WEIGHT
(IN POUNDS)
Armalite
16" Tactical
16" Low Profile
16
16
8.4
8.8
CMMG
MK3T
MK3 CBR
16
16
8.1
8.7
MODELS/ACCESSORIES
At the time that this article was written, the DD5V1 was the only 7.62x51/
.308 model offered by Daniel Defense. In
the future, other offshoots of this platform will be available in Daniel Defenses
Ambush line featuring an 18-inch barrel
and various color combinations.
Other than sights and optics, just
about any accessory you could want or
need can be mounted on the Keymod
rail. A sling will attach to either the rear
of the collapsible stock (slot) or the rear
of the lower receiver via the QD mount.
The sling also mounts to the front of the
rifle via an attachment to the Keymod
rail or the 1913 Mil-Std rail on top.
Daniel Defense and several other manufacturers sell various Keymod attachments for a variety of devices. Some
examples are Troy Industries 3- and 5inch 1913 Mil-Std rail sections, Daniel
Defenses 1 oclock mount for miniature
reflex sights such as the Trijicon RMR
series, Seekins Precisions aluminum
angled grip and Noveskes mount for the
Surefire Mini Scout light. These attachments mount easily by extending the captive nuts using a Torx driver or hex key,
MODEL
Daniel Defense
DD5V1
16
8.3
DPMS
3G1
TAC 20
16
16
8.5
8.5
Grey Ghost
Specter Heavy
16
Knights Armament
SR-25 E2
16
8.4
Larue Tactical
OBR
16
9.5
Lewis Machine
& Tool Company
LM8MWS
16
9.3
9.3
16
LWRC International
R.E.P.R. 16
POF
Skirmish
Rock River Arms
16.5
8.4
LAR-8 Elite
Operator
16
9.1
Smith & Wesson
M&P10 (no rail)
18
7.71
Wilson Combat
BILLet AR .308
16
8.4
Weight comparison with other similar rifles.

Weights are as advertised by the manufacturer for an unloaded rifle.
inserting the nuts through the large holes,

sliding them forward into the slots and
then tightening the nuts. If the position
that you have chosen doesnt work the
way you want it to, simply remove the
attachments, and install them in another
set of holes.
AMMUNITION
The DD5V1 is chambered for the
7.62x51 cartridge. Ammunition in .308
caliber may also be used. Given the
1:11-inch twist rate, bullet weights
from 150 to 168 grains are recommended.
When Daniel Defense designed the DD5V1,

its goal was to create a whole new evolution
of the AR-10 platform.
Keymod attachments:
1 oclock mount for Trijicon
RMR reflex sight, Noveske
mount for Surefire Mini Scout
light and a 3 1913 Mil-Std rail
section by Troy Industries.
During range testing, I used ammunition

produced by various manufacturers in
metal jacket, polymer tipped, and softpoint configurations. Bullet weights
ranged from 150 to 175 grains. All of the
ammunition tested functioned flawlessly.
OPTICS
A Bushnell DMR 3.5-21x50 Elite Tactical
scope was mounted using a LaRue Tactical 20 MOA PSR QD scope mount, model
LT112. This is an excellent combination
(see Tactical World, Winter 2015) and
worked well on the DD5V1.
CLEANING/FIELD STRIPPING
For those familiar with the AR-15, field
stripping and cleaning will be a cinch.
When cleaning the bolt and bolt carrier
assembly, I found the captive firing pin
retaining pin to be very handy. Cotter-pinstyle retaining pins can be difficult to
remove and insert, and can be easily misplaced during cleaning.
AT THE RANGE
During my first range session with the
DD5V1, I sighted it in at 100 yards and
broke it in with 50 rounds of various types
of ammunition. There were no malfunctions of any type.
The second through fourth range sessions were used to check the velocity of 11
different .308 loads and one 7.62x51 load,
as well as the accuracy. All groups were
fired from a sandbag rest at 100 yards.
Velocity was calculated based upon 10
consecutive shots using a

LabRadar unit to measure the
velocity at the muzzle of the rifle. Accuracy was based upon three five-shot
groups for each of the 12 different loads.
The largest group was 3.340 inches (Winchester Razorback) and the smallest
group was 0.580 inches (Norma Match
308). The average for all 36 groups fired
for record was 1.477 inches. Velocity and
accuracy details are shown in the sidebar.
Several factory loads tested produced
sub-1-inch five-shot groups (Barnes VorTx, Norma Match 308, Hornady #8097,
Hornady Super Performance #80933,
and Sako Super Hammerhead #235A),
but no one load produced consistent sub1-inch groups. The closest to that was the
Hornady #8097 168-grain BTHP Match
load, but that included one group with only
four rounds due to a called pulled shot.
I also measured the best three-shotgroups for each five-shot group fired.
These groups were consistently less
than one-half the size of the five-shot
groups. In many of the five-shot groups
only one errant round kept the group
from being less than 1 inch. I believe that
with a little more time and ammunition,
several of the 168-grain loads (Federal
GM308M, Barnes Vor-Tx, Norma Match,
and Hornady #8097) and three of the
150-grain loads (Hornady American
Whitetail #8090, Hornady Super Performance #80933, and Sako Super Hammerhead) could produce consistent sub1-inch groups.
COMPETITIVE USE
Due to time constraints, I was
unable to use the DD5V1 in a monthly tactical three-gun shoot, but I did do some
shooting at various distances, from different positions, and while moving after
accuracy testing was completed. The rifle
handled well due to its light weight and
16-inch barrel. The small diameter of the
Keymod rail made it easy to get a good
grip on the rail and drive the rifle during
various drills. The ambidextrous controls
and Geissele SSA trigger made operation
easy from either the weak or strong side.
I would still pick a 5.56x45 AR-15 such
as the DDM4V1 or DDM4V11 Pro for most
three-gun scenarios, but the DD5V1 would
make a great choice if long-range scenarios were a major part of the match.
CONCLUSION
The DD5V1 is an extremely well designed
and well built tactical rifle. Its light weight,
Keymod rail and ambidextrous controls set
it apart from the competition. Based upon
the past history of other Daniel Defense
rifles, I would expect the DD5V1 to prove to
be dependable and trouble-free for
thousands of rounds of service. TW
James Ryen, a firearms instructor with Double

Tap Shooting (above), exemplifies readiness.
STORY BY JAMES RYEN

PHOTOS BY JENNY GRAHAM
GO-TO
GEAR
Prepare Like a Pro
From Head To Toe
veryone has an opinion on

what gear they prefer and
why. Im no different. Through
my time at the range training law
enforcement, military and civilian
clients, Ive had the good fortune to
be witness to a wide spectrum of
gear being put through its paces,
tested, used and abused. Some performed as advertised while others
did not. Obviously, those whose
work lives are spent downrange
have access to gear the rest of us
can just drool over.
However, the bottom line is we all
want gear thats going to work when we
need it to, maintain that same high level
of quality performance time after time,
and not have us look like the poster
child for Tacticool R Us when we step
to the line or go to the park with our
kids.
Some of my staff members would
probably disagree with that last statement, but they also get easily distracted
by shiny objects and blinking lights, so
its judgment is circumspect at best. This
gear is all stuff that will survive the wear
and tear of use in your daily lives and
rise up to the occasion of Contact
front! should it ever be needed.
James Ryen says RE Factor Tacticals hat

provides ample comfort and fits superbly.
HEAD
My gear starts with my head. Its a rare occasion when Im
not wearing a cover, and my preferred choice of hat is the
baseball-style cap.
Thankfully, RE Factor Tactical makes one of the best with
its Blasting Cap. The FlexFit platform allows for a snug fit that
doesnt squeeze your head and still stays on in a moderate
wind. The mid crown keeps a low profile for a comfort fit, and
replacing that idiotic metal snap with a Velcro patch both
inside and outside makes for all day comfort while wearing
headset ear pro.

The 3.5-inch x 2-inch loop Velcro on the front and back
allows for your choice of affiliation patches, and the VF-17 signaling panel came in use when directing the father-in-law to
our seats for the latest Star Wars. I havent had to use the RE
Factors listed on the inside yet, but its nice to know theyre
there should I ever lock myself out of the house. This is just
about as perfect a hat as you can get and why its the only one
I listed.
EYE PROTECTION
I admit, my life is a bit of a dichotomy. I teach firearm tactics
and safety. I also work as an actor. Those two careers dont
often intersect, but when they do, it usually leads to some of
my favorite moments one of those being the opportunity to
work with Clint Eastwood on American Sniper. I bring this up
because Bradley Cooper wore Wiley X WX Saint shades in his
portrayal of Chris Kyle, and if that eye pro is good enough for
The Legend and Dirty Harry, then its good enough for me!
Some joking aside, Wiley X is widely known for its quality
eyewear, and the WX Saint comes with changeable shatterproof polycarbonate lenses, are supremely comfortable to
wear, and meet those ballistic standards that matter in MILPRF -32432, ANSI Z87.1 2010, and EN 166 S when it comes to
protecting your eyeballs. My pair has polarized smoke green
lenses that provide great clarity while reducing glare and
offer 100-percent UVA/UAB protection. Plus, they look
great! Complete with storage case, microfiber cleaning
cloth, and a leash cord for added retention, the WX Saint
is suited for any situation.
I also need to mention ESS Eye Pro and its Crowbar
Tactical. These also meet those same
levels of MIL-PRF-32432, ANSI
Z87.1 2010, and U.S. Federal
OSHA standards when it
comes to ballistic and impact
protection with its polycarbonate lenses, but the main
reason why I included them is
its Lens Gate for rapid lens
exchange. One of my pet peeves
with interchangeable lenses is how
you usually need to put your greasy
prints all over the lenses to switch them out.
The Crowbar has a great push-button kind of sys-
tem on the temple that allows you to minimize the amount of

lens you need to grab in order to switch them out. Very much
appreciated when your hands are covered in protein bar,
peanut dust, and gunpowder as you reload mags and your
belly in the transition from daylight to low-light instruction.
The Lens Gate makes for a quick and easy lens exchange in
a comfortable, lightweight frame that easily fits under ear pro
and helmets. The bottom edge of the lenses have a slightly
steeper angle to its cut which I found advantageous when
sweating heavily, because it didnt catch any of that sweat
on my cheeks along the edge of the lens. The mirrored copper
lenses mitigated the bright southern California sunlight while
adding contrast and depth to my field of vision. The Crowbar
Tactical comes complete with storage case, retention
leash, cleaning cloth, and soft lens pouch
to carry additional lenses.
TOPS
Unless you strut around town like Rambo, or are one of the
locals that frequent my area convenience store, you need to
wear a shirt. Velocity Systems and Triple Aught Design have
some excellent products that look sharp and meet your needs
from concealed to open carry and those situations in
between. The BOSS Rugby shirt from Velocity Systems is a
lightweight nylon and spandex rugby-inspired shirt that is
great for hot weather climates or as a moisture managing
base layer.
Highly stretchable and breathable, the shirt works well
standalone or under a vest and dries very quickly. The sleeves
come with loop Velcro and envelope pockets which are both
subdued and dont scream tactical. Its available in a selection

of colors with long or short sleeve variations and stays tucked
in on my 6-foot 4-inch frame.
The Tradecraft shirt from Triple Aught Design is a slick button-up that features bar tacked webbing and slotted buttons
for quick field repair. The welt pockets on the chest along with
a hidden envelope pocket makes for clean lines and it drapes
well, minimizing printing in a well-tailored, active fitting shirt.
The Tradecraft is water repellent and is a 65-percent polyester/35-percent cotton blend that resists stains and wrinkles
a great shirt for casual to upscale outings. I will say this shirt
fits well, so order a larger size up if you like a more relaxed fit.
gear
isThis
all stuf
that will survive
the wear and tear
of use in your
daily lives
OUTERWEAR
Continuing with Triple Aught Design, its
Tracer jacket is my favorite all-around jacket.
Inspired by the armor of the samurai, the
Tracer features a unique double-face stretch
fabric, polyester brushed construction, and a
Merino wool blend to keep you dry, warm,
and move with you. The nylon reinforcements on the shoulders and elbows lend
homage to that samurai armor in a sleek,
athletic fitting jacket that isnt bulky. The
front hand pockets pull double duty, featuring a zippered pocket to secure valuables
while still allowing access to a hand
warmer pocket. Zippered chest and
biceps pockets, along with an internal
welt pocket provide more storage than
Ive used and all of the zippers are YKK.
Although not designed for extreme
cold, Ive worn this in New Mexico and
Oregon winters to great results, and
like the samurai, youll look and feel like
a warrior in the Tracer.
CONTACT
INFO
RE Factor Tactical
www.REFactorTactical.com
Wiley X
www.WileyX.com
Velocity Systems
www.VelSyst.com
Triple Aught Design
www.TripleAughtDesign.com
Volund Gearworks
www.VolundGearworks.com
Lowa Boots
www.LowaBoots.com
Salomon
www.Salomon.com
G-Code
www.TacticalHolsters.com
Strongside Holsters
www.StrongsideHolsters.com
Zero Tolerance
www.ZT.KaiUSALtd.com
Maxpedition
www.Maxpedition.com
Taran Tactical
www.TaranTacticalInnovations.com
Patrol Incident Gear
www.PatrolIncidentGear.com
Suunto
www.Suunto.com/en-US
Omega Pacific
www.OmegaPac.com
SOG
www.SOGKnives.com
BELTS
Besides holding our pants up, a solid belt plays a major role in securing a firearm
and other gear on our person. The Atlas Cobra Belt from Volund Gearworks meets
that need in a slim design with the security of a Cobra buckle. Stiff scuba webbing is
sandwiched between two layers of flat webbing for belt stiffness, and the manufacturing incorporates a captured tail design for a clean look. The Cobra buckle used is
a smaller design, allowing for the passing of the buckle through the belt loops,
which is a huge benefit for those who are used to the large Cobra buckles on other
belts that required disassembly of the buckle (and your pride) in order to wear one.
The Atlas is rigid without feeling like a corset after a long day of being worn and
locks up well while maintaining its dimensions with its Velcro fastener. One limitation of the belt I have to discuss is that due to the buckle, many rigid closed-loop
holsters such as Kydex and similar will not fit over the buckle onto the belt even at
its smaller dimensions so, this belt is best suited for standalone use or holsters
that feature clips, buttoned loops, or under a duty/battle belt.
Ryen says Triple Aughts pants are rugged

and can take an abundance of abuse.
PANTS
Triple Aught Design returns to the go-to gear lineup with
its Spartan RS Pant. Like its namesake, these pants are built
for rugged use with triple topstitching, darted knees, and a
gusseted crotch. Water repellent and incorporating Ripstop
material, the Spartan RS offers a streamlined, professional
look that can take loads of abuse. Welt pockets are
designed throughout and also have two rear internal pass-
your significant other in Vegas.

While there are some pants that are more operator in
design, function, and look the ability of the Spartan RS to
blend into the crowd makes it my top choice. With that
being said the front pockets also have internal welt pockets, and Ive caught the underside of my thumbnail a couple
times on the edge of those internal pockets, which does not
port pockets for those that need to secure some behindthe-scenes bribe money or keep some cash hidden from
feel good, so in a follow-up article, I may be selecting a different pant. I carry grudges. What can I say?
BOOTS
If you spend any time in the outdoors or at the range, you
wear boots. Boots are made for hard work. Growing up in
Texas, cowboys and ranchers didnt wear sneakers; they wore
boots. And for me, Lowa and Salomon are the boots of choice.
The Lowa Renegade GTX are sneaker comfortable with a
Nubuck leather upper, PU Monowrap frame, Vibram Evo outsole, Climate Control footbed, and Gore-Tex lining. When I first
got Lowa boots some years ago, I took them to the gym, ran
multiple miles, splashed through streams, and climbed hills to
see how they would fare. Like any quality product, theyre not
cheap, so I wanted to make sure they were worth the cost.
I can honestly say they met my requirements. Although I
started the article with my head, I should say gear really starts
at the feet. The Renegade GTX are even better than those first
pair of Lowas, providing plenty of support, keeping my feet dry,
cushioning well, and doing their part to prevent blisters. Their weight is about 2.44 lbs., which is
very well displaced throughout the boot
without that clunky Frankenstein feeling.
The Salomon Forces XA Pro Mid
GTX is quite a title for quite a boot.
Weighing just over a pound, these
boots ride that line between sneaker
and boot being light, comfortable,
and featuring a speed lacing system
that make for easy removal. Due to the containment of the laces, you can slip the boots on
without tightening the laces and wear them without
dragging the untied laces in the dirt for quick errands.
Being used to traditional laces, I feel the speed lacing system doesnt tighten the boot around my midfoot as much as
Im used to or inherently speed up the lacing process. Yet, at
the same time, I have yet to feel as if the boot is not secure
when being worn. They have an Ortholite sockliner and GoreTex membrane for comfort and performance, and having run
multiple miles, worked out, waded streams, and spent many
an hour in temperatures around the mid 30s (you can see a
trend with my footwear), they have performed as well as I
could ask for in boots.
IWB HOLSTER
We all agree theres a responsibility when it comes to gun
ownership and usage. Carrying a firearm in public only heightens that responsibility so having a secure and high quality holster is of the utmost importance. For inside-the-waistband
carry, there are no better choices than the N82 Tactical Professional model and Incog System from G-Code/HSP.
We recently conducted a protective security detail training
in which a couple of the clients had extremely worn IWB
leather holsters. During the course of fire, which simulated the
engagement of a threat and evacuation of the principal, we
purposely had to slow them down more than usual during the
re-holster because the nature of the holsters created an
extremely unsafe situation where a negligent discharge was
likely. If a situation is so easily prevented, why are you still
using what amounts to a worn sock as a holster?
The Professional from N82 Tactical solves that issue with a
polycarbonate shell that has 30-percent more tensile strength
and almost double the impact strength of acrylic-polyvinyl
chloride the material used in many of the most popular IWB
holsters. That shell is attached to a backing of oil-tanned and
suede leather with a neoprene padding in between, which
makes for the most comfortable IWB holster I have ever worn.
This was the holster I wore on a 26-hour road trip, and the
only discomfort I faced was the fast food ingested along the
way and agreeing to make such a trip in the first place. The
Professional also has retention on the firearm with its Twist
Release System that is intuitive and doesnt hinder the draw
stroke (with little practice). Yes, you should practice with your
holsters, which goes back to that heightened responsibility
concept.
Another option for IWB carry, the Incog System from GCode and Haley Strategic Partners is an excellent choice. The
multiple positions, variety of adjustments, and ease of use
serve well for all carry positions and not just appendix. The
Incog can be ordered with a magazine caddy and also has
options for light-mounted firearms like its Incog Shadow
Eclipse model. The injection-molded design along with the
negative canted mounting clips provides minimal bulk and
better concealment in use.
The modality of the Incog is what sets it apart from all
other IWB holsters. Whether worn with two mounting clips or
one, with or without the mag caddy, the ability to adjust to
your preference makes for a holster that you will actually
wear, and one that you can adjust to fit your needs. The
snick thats heard when your firearms slides into place is a
testament to the quality of manufacturing and confidence in a
secured firearm.
OWB HOLSTER
Outside-the-waistband carry is inherently more comfortable than IWB, but is also problematic for areas that dont
allow open carry, warmer climates not suited for layers to conceal, or for those that just dont want to draw attention to the
fact theyre carrying a firearm. Duty holsters fall outside this
arena, so my focus is on OWB holsters for the everyman. In
todays market, those holsters are made with Kydex.
Strongside Holsters utilizes vacuum-forming processes and
integrated forming jigs that manufacture the holsters with all
the bends and curves already in place. This allows for a high
level of consistency and strength from holster to holster as
opposed to the typical foam press for the pocket and bending
afterwards from other vendors. Strongsides Covert holster fit
my Glock 19 perfectly and the 0.125-inch Kydex belt loops
were rock solid in keeping the holster in place and snug
against my side. All of the edges were smoothed, polished,
and even looked to be beveled for the best quality of edging
Ive seen on Kydex holsters.
Not to be outdone, the Kydex holster options from Bravo
Concealment are also top notch and extremely high quality.
Made from .08-inch Kydex, its holsters are rigid and dont flex
like lower quality products. A different process is the use of
injection-molded polymer for its belt loops. This is to provide
maximum strength and also allows for the incorporation of its
logo on each belt loop, which lends a refined and polished
look. An additional feature that can be ordered is its Level II
retention system that is pretty rare on a Kydex holster.
This utilizes a spring-loaded hood that adds additional
security for your firearm while maintaining a natural and quick
draw using the thumb to release the hood. I admit, I wondered

about the durability of the system because its polymer under
tension rubbing against polymer, but 700+ draws later, the
system still feels secure and locks up tight. On both the gun
and magazine holster, hand lettering is seen which affirms
that each item has undergone individual inspection for quality
assurance.
FOLDING KNIVES
Zero Tolerance. I could stop this portion of the article after
that first sentence. Im sure youve seen the torture tests done
online where ZT knives are hammered into trees and used to
cut lumber. Not ideal for a knife, but when considering
whether its a go-to knife or not, its nice to know that these
knives can take that abuse and more. Having been witness to
the manufacturing process of ZT knives, and seeing how each
and every knife is hand finished with every step of the manufacturing process taking place in the same building, I can
attest to the unsurpassed quality that goes into every blade.
Really, you could pick any ZT as a winner here, but I went
with the Ken Onion designed 0350TS and Rick Hinderer
0566BW. Both names are legendary in the world of knife
design and these blades incorporate those features that make
for exceptional knives. The 0566BWs blade is Elmax powdered steel for extreme sharpness, edge retention and
strength. The front scale is textured G-10 while the back is
stainless steel with a frame lock and lockbar stabilizer.
The SpeedSafe assisted opening makes for a smooth
opening every time and the quad-mounting system allows the
user to adjust the method of carry to preference. With a blade
length of 3.25 inches and overall length of 7.7 inches, the
0566BW is a perfect everyday carry size with a black wash
finish for a nice matte look. The 0350TS features S30V steel
in its blade and has a tiger-striped Tungsten DLC (DiamondLike Carbon) offering additional blade hardness and reduced
friction to the durable and corrosion resistant S30V steel. The
scales are textured G-10, and the blade is secured with a liner
lock. Also featuring the SpeedSafe assisted opening and
quad-mounting system, the 0350TS is about the same length
as the 0566BW but visibly wider, offering a more robust grip.
Its a knife I get compliments on every time its used.
FIXED KNIVES
Staying with the EDC idea, I wanted to share fixed blades
that could be worn on your person as you go about your daily
life. For that reason, I picked the C.A.T. 203T-02 and 200S-04
from Tops Knives. These Covert Anti-Terrorism knives are similar in size to folders with a 3.25-inch blade and overall length
of 7.25 inches and feature 1095 blade steel and G-10/Micarta
handles. The blades also come with a traction coating that
allows for a better grip when doing closer inspection work and
more protective blade durability. There are holes present in
the spine of the blade for bending wire and each knife comes
with a Kydex sheath mounted to a rotating steel spring clip for
carry in a variety of positions. Although theyre not the largest
fixed blades available, these knives are extremely solid with
.160-inch thick blades and its Rocky Mountain Bulls-eye handle pattern makes for a secure grip.
PACK
I am a big fan of single-strap packs.
Worn over one shoulder, they provide
the ability to carry gear while utilizing
slung weapons and the pack can be
easily transitioned to the front while still
being worn to access pockets and gear.
Maxpedition has an excellent one in its
Monsoon Gearslinger. Known for its
Hard Use Gear, the Monsoon
Gearslinger is a rugged and durable
teardrop-shaped pack with plenty of
pockets and well-thought-out features.
Dual hydration pockets accommodate a
32-ounce water bottle and 100-ounce
hydration bladder with plenty of
PALS/Molle webbing over the pack to
secure the drinking tube and attach
additional pouches or items.
There are several zippered pockets
and an attached Keyper to keep those
keys and ringed items in the same place.
With a volume of 1000 cubic inches, the
Gearslinger can hold all of the stickers,
goodies, and handouts your local gun
show can throw at you with spare room
for gear you can actually use. The 1000Denier water and abrasion resistant ballistic nylon is also treated with Teflon for
easy maintenance, and uses YKK zippers. The single strap lends an urban
appeal and the breathable padding
makes for comfortable carry.
TEST IT
Go-to gear lists are never complete,
and there are certainly items I wanted to
add, but youll be hard pressed to find
better quality gear in any of these areas.
Catch me at the range sometime and
let me know why Im right or wrong
about any of the products listed here.
Maybe we can find that next piece of
innovative gear we both agree on.
In the meantime, train with your gear,
test your gear and use your gear. Its
worthless if you dont. TW
James Ryen is a firearms instructor and
actor who appeared in American Sniper.
ACCESSORIES
SUUNTO CORE
WATCH
TARAN TACTICAL BASE PADS
The TTI Firepower Base Pads from Taran Tactical Innovations allow
users to add capacity to its magazines by simply changing out the base
plates. CNC machined from billet aluminum and hard anodized, these
base pads can add up to 6 rounds per pistol mag and add a larger gripping surface for clearing malfunctions and easier falling mag releases.
Made for a variety of pistols and AR magazines, those additional rounds
may prove to be the diference in competition or self-defense, and an
item I consider an absolute must for my gear.
PIG FDT FR BRAVO GLOVES
The Patrol Incident Gear FDT FR Bravo gloves

from SKD are the next step up from its
highly regarded Alpha gloves. Now
incorporating Nomex for ame
resistance (hence the FR designation), the Bravo gloves
are very exible with
goat and sheep
leathers for more
sensitivity and
touchscreen
compatible
stitching
on the index
ngers and
thumb. The pulltabs allow for
securing when not in use and the Velcro closures hold well and lay at to minimize gear abrasion. These gloves t like well, a glove, and make more
dexterous tasks easy to manage.
The Suunto Core All

Black combines an altimeter, barometer, and compass with weather functions
in a sleek and attractive case. The
storm warning and bearing lock with direction indicator are great features, and the backlight illuminates the display without disturbing your
night vision. Notication of sunrise/sunset, temperature, and depth
meter are also useful programs.
OMEGA PACIFIC
CARABINEERS
From securing ear pro,

hanging gear from trees to
keep away from bears, or
belaying your friend that
needs to retrieve his phone
dropped of the side of a
clif, the OPTD5 carabineers
from Omega Pacic are
light and at anodized to
reduce glare. Rated for 31kN,
theyll support over 6960 pounds-force, so you could even belay your
friends truck to go get that phone if needed.
SOG B66N-CP MULTITOOL
No gear is complete without

some sort of multitool. SOGs
B66N-CP has 16 tools in a black
oxide nish with two SOG Assisted
Technology blades. Compound
Leverage in the pliers allow you
to pull those tent stakes a little more easily and the bottle opener lets you sip a
cold one at the end of
the day. Comes with a
nylon sheath.
The results of bullets on

auto glass. One of several
lessons learned in Urban
Vehicle Countermeasures.
WRONGTURN
CTT Solutions Urban Vehicle Countermeasures,
And What To Do When Things Go Bad Behind The Wheel
BY TOM MARSHALL
PHOTOS BY ERIN MARSHALL
hat is the most dangerous

thing you do every day? Is
it a bad neighborhood you
pass through? Is it driving on a highspeed interstate full of drivers who
dont pay attention? If you work in
the law enforcement or security
fields, it may be patrolling your beat
or transporting your principal. All of
these answers have one very important thing in common: they involve
moving into, out of, or with your
vehicle.
It takes a lot of time, patience, and
practice to hone fundamental marksmanship. Even on a static square range
in perfect weather, its not exactly easy.
So, what happens when you add seatbelts, windshields, door locks, and traffic? Also, dont forget, youre going to be
fighting for your life or the lives of your
family. The problem of how to employ
your firearm in and around a vehicle is
complex. Just like any other shootingrelated skill, it takes conscious forethought and at least a little bit of practice. For many years, this specific type of
knowledge was only available to those
in the military and law enforcement
community. Armed citizens did not have
access to the facilities, or knowledge
base, required to train this task properly.
Students learn to engage targets from all positions in and around vehicles, as individuals and two-man teams.
This has started to change over the

past several years. A number of
companies and instructors are
introducing vehicle-centric courses to
the open enrollment community.
One such company, CTT Solutions,
allowed me to participate in the pilot
class of its new curriculum, Urban
Vehicle Countermeasures.
CTT Solutions is owned and operated
by Mike Pannone, a Special Operations
veteran with an extensive background in
military and private security operations,
as well as prior experience as a federal
law enforcement firearms instructor. He
has been operating independently, under
the CTT banner, since 2010 and teaches
a number of firearms and tactics-related
courses in the U.S. and overseas.
Urban Vehicle Countermeasures is
Pannnones newest offering. The course
is a two-day format and, be warned, it is
two full days. I cannot remember the
last time I worked this hard in a civilian
shooting course. I collapsed into my bed
both nights and, by the end of the week-
end, I had sun burn, blisters on both

hands, scraped knees, sore legs and
probably mild dehydration.
I also cant remember the last time I
had so much fun on the range. The training time absolutely flew by, and I would
happily have spent another two days out
there if thats what the course had
demanded. Let me put a caveat in here.
Just because I say I had fun does not
mean this course is light on content. This
is not a blast-away weekend camp
where you dump 2,000 rounds in coolguy drills to show all your friends. There
is a lot of good knowledge, some solid
skill building, and a bit of lecture. I simply
enjoy rigorous professional development
under the guidance of in my opinion
a world-class instructor. But if youre
looking for a place to sport your multicam plate carrier and Ops Core helmet,
youll have to find another course.
In fact, lets talk about gear for a
minute. This course, like much of the
top-notch training Ive been fortunate to
attend, is light on required equipment.
The official packing list looks like this:

pistol, 3 to 5 magazines, holster, gun
belt, and 700 rounds of ammunition.
Thats it. I only ended up needing about
500 of those rounds. Your mileage may
vary. My cameraman (camera-woman)
and I both got to shoot, and heres what
we ran:
GLOCK 19
3 x 15-round mags
Kydex holster & double-mag
Pouch by X-Concealment
BLACKHAWK! instructor belt
KIMBER WARRIOR 1911
5 x 8-round magazines
Kydex holster & quad-mag
Pouch by Raven Concealment
5.11 double-thickness gun belt
All ammunition was provided by A&A
Ammunition out of southern Arizona.
Never heard of them? Neither had I,
until about 36 hours before the course
when the ammunition I ordered from
The author performs a reload on the move while bounding between vehicles.
another company never showed up.

Andrew, the head honcho at A&A, kind
of saved my bacon with 1,500 rounds of
ammo an order I placed over the
phone while driving to his shop. He
loads his ammo specifically for highvolume training and it shows. His stuff is
noticeably soft shooting and, even
though his .45 ACP rounds only clock
about 780 fps, it functioned flawlessly
out of my Kimber 1911 with an overweight recoil spring.
DAY ONE
Training Day 1 does not involve any
work with vehicles. At the beginning of
the day, this made me scratch my head
a bit. After all, it is a vehicle-based
course. By the end of the day, however, I
totally understood the course structure
and think it a smart way to do business.
The morning started with a brief
overview of the material and an outline
of how the two days would flow. One
thing I found very interesting is that Mike
does not really introduce himself. Nearly
Car doors do not provide ballistic cover, but it may be the only thing you have when that bad day comes.
every course I take starts with the
instructors doing a run-down of their
resume. Mr. Pannone essentially skips
this step altogether. This was a refreshing break from the traditionally
accepted template of how these kinds
of classes generally run, and is indicative

of Mikes get-down-to-business
approach. His resume is well known and
available from a number of sources, and
he truly feels its more important to
spend your class time on the material.
Instructor Kelly shoots through the rear windshield of a training vehicle, to demonstrate terminal ballistics.
Pannone begins training by running

the class through a very quick, but comprehensive, set of diagnostic drills.
Since the course currently has no prerequisites, Im sure this helps him gauge
the overall skill level of the class and,
thus, set the proper pace of instruction.
Since this class was specifically
designed to incorporate elements of his
Covert Carry class, there are a number
of short discussions and practical exercises that cover everything from methods of carry to reloads. Students were
encouraged to train from multiple carry
positions, to include a woman who ran
her pistol out of a CCW purse for much
of the training.
Mikes instruction is rigorously practical. Every method he presents is followed by an explanation of why. Not
once did he ever justify a technique
with thats how we did it in my unit.
There is a biomechanical and experience-based reason for his approach to
everything, and he never attempts to
re-train something that works for you,
as long as its safe. The goal is simply to
give you every possible tool for success
when it counts. He also embraces the
I cannot remember the last time I worked this hard

in a civilian shooting course.
benefits of competition shooting, even

while teaching in a combative or defensive context. He was accompanied by
two adjunct instructors: Chris, a Deputy
with a local Sheriffs Department and
Kelly, a Master-class competition
shooter. With Mikes own background
primarily military and contract-based,
students reap the benefit of wisdom
from literally every corner of the shooting community.
The afternoon rolled into rudimentary
shooting-on-the-move, man-on-man
reactionary training and, eventually,
ended with some pretty intensive barricade work. The latter included unconventional angles and sometimesuncomfortable positions to overcome a
variety of barricade challenges. This laid
a solid foundation for the unpredictable
nature of working around vehicles
especially if the vehicle involved isnt
your own, or one you use on a routine

basis.
Day 2, if youll forgive the pun, is
where the rubber meets the road. Before
doing any shooting we took a long block
of instruction about pre-attack indicators, points of exposure (getting into
and out of your vehicles, pulling into
your driveway or garage, walking
through the parking lot to your vehicle,
etc.), risk mitigation and targeting techniques that criminals may use against
you while moving on foot or on wheels.
This truly cemented the larger why
question of the course at large. Sure, its
a lot of fun to duck behind cars and ding
steel. For most of us, the probability of
having to use such maneuvers is
extremely low. The run-and-gun part of
this course is really a rehearsal for the
worst case scenario. But, truth is, the
overwhelming majority of violent crimi-
Students were given the chance to engage targets through the windshield while seated in a vehicle.
nal encounters can be overcome, or forestalled, without any kind of force whatsoever.
CLASS APPROVED
I particularly like Mikes three-point
strategy of Avoid, Evade, Defend. The
first line of defense is KISS simple: just
dont put yourself near places or people
likely to cause you harm. I heard an
axiom years ago: The best gunfight in
the world is the one you just avoided. If
you cannot avoid said situations by deescalation, either through body-language, situational awareness, or an alteration of your physical position (e.g., step
out of the shadow into a street light, or
place yourself clearly in view of a CCTV
camera) you can throw off a planned
assault/ambush.
Range training re-commenced using
real vehicles that had been towed out
onto a flat range in front of an array of
steel targets, using a very clear building
block approach. When I was in the military, we called it the crawl-walk-run
methodology. Begin with the most basic
version of what you want to teach: in this
case, a single person working from a sin-
gle vehicle. As the day progressed more

vehicles were added, and arrayed in different positions, and then strings of
shoot-and-move with a buddy to practice communication and continuity of
fire.
The class capstone was a block of
practical exercises in what I like to call
applied vehicular ballistics. This alone is
worth the course tuition, as I cant think
of anywhere else the average person has
a chance to do it. Students were allowed,
and encouraged, to take turns shooting
into and out of various parts of a car
with whatever weapon/ caliber/ammo
they had available. Windshields, door
panels and trunks were all fair game. This
was especially useful to people who had
a box of their carry ammo on hand.
Between all the students, we had everything from 5.56mm to .38 Special, and
all the major handgun calibers in
between. Both jacketed and bonded hollowpoints, as well as ball rounds, were
represented. This exercise dispels almost
all of the so-called conventional wisdom
of ballistic performance in regards to
vehicles. The list of different rounds, and
their various individual performances, is
too comprehensive to list here. Besides, I

would love for each and every one of you
to just take the course and try it for yourself. The short answer is that there is
absolutely no dependable rule-of-thumb
when it comes to handgun rounds and
performance against car bodies. The two
biggest determining factors seemed to
be bonded vs. jacketed rounds, and angle
of attack but even these did not offer
100% blanket solutions.
The sheer amount of information that
Mike and his colleagues manage to fit
into 16 hours of training time didnt fully
sink in for me until about a week after the
course. In spite of the physical demands,
I did not ever feel any kind of information
overload. Nobody lectured for the sake of
lecturing. Any student questions were
answered thoroughly and challenges to
the curriculum were welcomed. Otherwise, the academic portion of the course
was kept to a practical minimum.
Mike, Kelly and Chris are all, truly,
world-class instructors. With the advent
of Urban Vehicle Countermeasures, they
have put together one of the most
unique, engaging and enjoyable classes
Ive ever taken. TW
BUYERS GUIDE TACTICAL LIGHTS BUYERS GUIDE
OWN THE NIGHT,
REDUCE THE SHADOWS
BY DAVE DOLBEE
f youre looking to find a suspect-blinding flashlight, then weve got

you covered. For the better part of 2015, we have been carrying BriteStrikes EPLI Illumination tool in our EDC. In doing so, we have come
to understand that a good torch is one of those things you do not realize
is so handy until you really commit to carrying one on a daily basis.
Youd be surprised how many times that thing has bailed us out of a
tough situation. Not to mention, it can be a great little tool to momentarily stun someone or deny their night vision for a few seconds while
you clear the scene.
When discussing tactical flashlights, the term tactical is confusing to some
and off-putting to others. We are not sure there is an official definition, but
minimally, a tactical flashlight should include the following features:
High number of lumens
Maximum durability
Sturdy construction from aluminum or titanium
Typically too small to use as a club
Textured grip (anti-roll profile)

OPEN OR CONCEALED CARRY
Okay, it is not as critical as the debate
going on over whether or not to open
carry a handgun, but carrying a good tactical flashlight can be almost as important. Here are a few very reasons why you
should carry a tactical flashlight:
Personal safety
Survival
Emergency Situations/
Natural disaster
Next to a knife, a tactical flashlight is
one of the most important things to stock
in your EDC bag. For personal safety, the
tactical flashlight can blind an assailant
or identify a threat. For survival situations,
such as a natural disaster, the increased
brightness can help you navigate terrain
or debris. Most importantly, it can be used
to signal rescuers.
A good torch can also be a deterrent.
With the light aimed at a suspicious per-
sons eyes, you maintain a degree of

anonymity. They are naturally off balance.
Their mind must focus on the possibilities
of what you are doing and what is behind
you. Essentially, it offers you a momentary tactical advantage.
SELECTING THE RIGHT LIGHT

Your first step is to determine the mission or likely use for your light. Dont be
fooled by the name. A tactical flashlight
may serve a tactical purpose as we have
already outlined. However, it is also ideal
for hunting and camping, utility chores,
and youngsters (or oldsters) who fear
things that go bump in the night. Nothing
beats an ultra bright light for old eyes
(grandma or grandpa) in a power outage.
Likely features you will want to compare include the body, bulb, and circuitry.
Is it aircraft-grade aluminum construction? Does it have LED bulbs? LED bulbs
use less power and offer longer bulb life.

That is because LED lights do not having
filaments, which make them virtually
unbreakable. Bulb life ratings of 50,000
to 100,000 hours are common, but it is
the circuitry that is most important. The
circuitry will offer a brighter output or
longer run time. The best model lights will
be able to toggle between high output
and a lower output with a significantly
increased run time.
LUMENS
To qualify as a tactical light it has to
be bright, of course. That brightness is
typically measured in lumens. Top
models will put out 2,000 lumens.
However, brighter lights come at the
cost of size and weight or decreased
runtime. Smaller penlights will get the
job done for EDC and typically run at
150 to 300 lumens.
PHOTO OF PELICAN M6 COURTESY OF WWW.PELICAN.COM
You have to be able to clearly identify your target before ring, so a good light is key. Techniques vary and plenty of practice shooting in low-light conditions is a must. The days of a four D-cell light as a club are over, but a small lightweight model will efectively cause a suspect to be temporarily blinded.
Brite-Strike RHIGHT
Brite-Strike Tactical Touch Flashlights were designed with
Tactical Blue Dot Switches. Designed by police officers, for
police officers, the body is CNC machine milled from a single
billet of high grade aerospace aluminum. The proprietary
black anodized finish exceeds MIL-SPEC class two type III. The
unique tri-sided body is more ergonomic for better gripping.
The front crenelated strike crown is blunted and the rear
crown is more aggressive for maximum effectiveness in applying pressure point control techniques.
The pocket clip is specifically designed for line officers and

is reversed from other tactical lights. The clip features a
greater clearance for lightning-fast draws from a BDU pocket,
duty belt, or six-pocket police pant. It also allows for quick
mounting on a uniform epaulet, and quick removal when
needed. The beam is a brilliant white light with a wider
spread for a flood effect, which illuminates the entire area of
a vehicle on a motor vehicle stop.
MSRP $275, www.Brite-Strike.com
SureFire P3X Fury

The P3X Fury has a virtually failure-proof ultra-high-output
LED that delivers your choice of either 1,000 blinding lumens
of perfectly focused light or 15 lumens of useful light. The
1,000-lumen output with peak beam level of 22,000 candela is enough for searching, signaling, or to overpower the
dark-adapted vision of a threat. The 15-lumen output level is
perfect for general work at close-to-medium distances and
lets you greatly extend the flashlights runtime on a set of
three lithium 123A batteries, a valuable feature when in the
field or in remote locations without easy access to spare batteries. At either setting, a precision reflector delivers a smooth,
far-reaching beam with a brighter central area and generous

peripheral light to help maintain situational awareness.
The P3X Fury is activated with a click-type tailcap switch:
press for momentary-on low, press further to click constanton low, return to off and press or click on again within two seconds for high. The high-strength aerospace aluminum body is
knurled for a comfortable, secure grip in all kinds of weather
and is coated with a MIL-SPEC hard-anodized finish for
extreme resistance to scratches, abrasion, and corrosion in
even the harshest environments.
MSRP $250, www.SureFire.com
Weapon-mounted lights do not

serve double duty. A weaponmounted light is only useful when
you already have cause to draw your
weapon in preparation for a deadly
force encounter.
GETTY IMAGES
Streamlight ProTac HL 4
New technology brings you this 2,200 lumen handheld
flashlight with a wide beam pattern that will illuminate an
entire area. The dual fuel ProTac HL 4 accepts either four
CR123A lithium batteries or two rechargeable 18650 batteries
the multiple power sources can help to reduce down time.
HIGH/STROBE/LOW
High for maximum illumination: 2,200 lumens; 30,000 candela; 346m beam; runs 1.5 hours (CR123A batteries); runs 1.75
hours (18650 batteries)
Medium for bright light and longer runtime: 600 lumens;

8,300 candela; 182m beam; runs 4 hours (CR123A batteries);
runs 4.25 hours (18650 batteries)
Low for extended time: 60 lumens; 800 candela; 56m
beam; runs 40 hours (CR123A batteries); runs 43 hours
(18650 batteries)
Strobe for signaling or disorienting: runs 2.5 hours (CR123A
batteries); runs 3.5 hours (18650 batteries)
MSRP $155, www.Streamlight.com
5.11 TMT R1
The TMT R1 duty flashlight combines outstanding clarity,
reliable durability, and rechargeable convenience, making it an
ideal choice for patrol duty, tactical operations, or recreational
use. Utilizing power-smart Cree LED technology, the TMT R1
throws a brilliant 339 lumens of light in a bright tactical beam,
and offers up to 3 hours of runtime on high mode or up to 74
hours of runtime on low mode from a single charge. Intelligent
smart switching technology allows quick and quiet toggle

between three light modes high, low, or strobe and the
momentary-on switch produces a brief blast of light without
auditory cues that might give away your location. The R1
includes a stamped metal pocket clip, break-away lanyard,
and an anti-roll ring for stable and secure carry.
MSRP $130, www.511Tactical.com
Pelican M6
Bright light. Tough body. The Pelican
M6 2390 Flashlight uses a 3-watt Cree
LED for intense brightness. The strong
body is CNC-machined aluminum with
knurled grip for a secure handle. Plus, it

has a Type III anodized coating for extra
protection. The convenient push button
tail cap switch has a safety lockout feature to prevent inadvertent battery
depletion or accidental activation. The

M6 comes with a free Cordura holster
with back-up battery pouch. Two CR123
lithium cells are also included.
MSRP $83, www.Pelican.com
ExtremeBeam M4 Scirrako
The M4 Scirrako is a long-range
workhorse of a flashlight worthy only
of the ExtremeBeam name. Roll
pressed from high quality aluminum,
the M4 Scirrako combines a a 230lumen LED and precision-mirrored
SuperLumen reflecting cone that work
together to easily cast light to distances of 333 meters with a runtime of
7 hours on high.
The M4 Scirrako is fitted with double
O-ring seals, making it waterproof to
depths of 30 feet, and ExtremeBeams
Anti-Recoil system allowing the M4
Scirrako to be weapons-mountable up
to .50 BMG.
The M4 Scirrako utilizes BalancedBeam Technology to consistently
deliver unmatched light-casting ability,

ruggedness and an extended runtime
to users when they need it. It also has a
HikeBack feaure that automatically
dims the light when batteries are low,
giving users enough time to return back
to safety and not be left in the dark
without notice.
MSRP $60, www.ExtremeBeam.com
BLACKHAWK! Night-Ops Legacy L-6V

Featuring an aluminum body with
hard-coat anodized finish, this tactical
light gives you big light output in a
rugged design. The rotating function
selector switch allows you to activate
the light with your preferred setting. No
need to scroll through functions with a

momentary switch.
The Legacy L-6V features a multifaceted reflector, tempered glass lens,
multiple-position rotating switch
(High, Med, Low, Strobe, Safety Off),
Malestrom MMX-360
The Maelstrom MMX with 360 pressure
switch was designed to let you have the right
amount of light at the moment you need it.
The MMX-360 can memorize your two preferred output modes out of eight possible
modes for immediate access. This means that
youll know exactly how bright your light is
going to be every time you switch it on, without
having to toggle through multiple options. The
tactile feel and complete 360 degree coverage
570/220/20 lumens and strobe at

max, and a 120-minute runtime on high
with XM-L LEDs. The Legacy L-6V runs
off two CR-123 batteries.
MSRP $123, www.Blackhawk.com
of the pressure switch ensures that whenever

you need to change modes, you wont be
fumbling to find the switch.
The rugged Maelstrom tactical series is
designed to perform in the harshest environments. Reliable and versatile, these lights are
the result of years of research and input from
military and law enforcement personnel. With
outputs ranging from 350 to a staggering
15,000 lumens, these lights will show the dark
who is boss.
MSRP $100, www.FourSevens.com
These are just a few of our top choices. We could easily fill a magazine with nothing but tactical
lights, but alas there are many more topics for Tactical World readers to be covered. However, the list
here gives you a great starting point with proven products from companies with rich histories. TW
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The instructor cannot be afraid

to get down and get dirty.
THE PATH TO
EXCELLENCE
How To Get the Most Out of Your Training
PHOTOS BY SUZANNE MULLEN
hings change.
At one time, most NRA instructors were
Korean War or Vietnam War veterans.
Civilian instruction was limited to basic handgun
and safety classes conducted by the NRA.
Today, there is a new age. There are thousands of
certified instructors across the country. All NRA
instructors receive the same training. Many instructors come from the military. Some even come from
backgrounds youd never expect, such as attorneys.
So where is training headed? What are the key
points you should look for? To get a feel for the direction, we asked a number of trainers.
Welcome to the future.
INSTRUCTOR: TIM MCKNIGHT

EXPERIENCE: TRAINER
Q: What is the most popular aspect of
training right now?
TM: Most students are looking for Concealed Weapon permit (CWP) training.
A smaller number of students realize
the need for more advanced training
once they receive their CWP.
Q: In the wake of active shooting, are

facilities coming to you for advice?
TM: I have seen more interest in training
for churches. They want to make their
facilities and worship centers more
secure. I believe there will be an
increased interest from churches in
security training, and the future of training will integrate armed and unarmed
self-defense at the basic and advanced
levels.
INSTRUCTOR: BOB CAMPBELL

EXPERIENCE: RETIRED LAW
ENFORCEMENT
Q: With so many academies and instructors, how does a student find a good
instructor?
BC: You must choose an instructor that
you feel comfortable with on a personal
and professional basis. If you are simply
going to get the CCW paper, for
Training can be
enjoyable. We all
want to be all we
can be.
If you need the CWP and thats all, its

another matter. However, for a serious
learning experience, check the instructors papers. Most instructors offer a tier
of courses, beginning at ground level
and proceeding to instructors courses.
Once you begin to climb the ladder,
every rung makes you stronger.
example, you have made a mistake.

The paper doesnt really mean a lot
except as a symbol of personal development. It isnt like a degree or a state
mandated certificate. The certificate
you receive for advanced training simply
means you have attended the class and
hopefully passed. It is your hard work
and a good instructor that make the
training certificate worth something.
Q: Where should a student start?

BC: A training facility that has been in
operation for some time is often the
best bet. When an instructor with 20
years of either police or military
service signs the certificate, it is
worth something.
I would also ask to see the instructors
credentials and certificates. Hopefully,
he has kept up with the latest developments and personally attended schools.
Q: What about the different backgrounds? What works best for a school?
BC: Some, like Captain Ayoob, have
walked the walk in a police uniform.
Chuck Taylor, a respected instructor,
commanded a rifle company in Vietnam.
Do your research and find out if the
instructor is well versed in defensive
shooting with a great deal of experience.
Is his class colored by reality TV? Dont
laugh; many are. Is the instructors background primarily competition shooting
or training officers and soldiers? He may
be able to teach you how to shoot but
not when to shoot.
It takes a lot of training, schools and
experience to fill in the blanks of a lack
of institutional experience. Frankly, I am
not certain it can be done. For a basic
safety shooting class, perhaps, but not
for life and death training. Remember, it
is your hard-earned money and you can
afford to be selective.
Every state does not even require an
instructor to obtain liability insurance.
You should ask. If they have not invested
in this insurance and other training
rundo not walk away.
Q: How about the safety factor?
BC: When considering a firearms course,
safety is most important. I have heard of
a firearms course in which safety was
thrown to the wind. An instructor stood

in front of students as they practiced
trigger control with unloaded firearms.
This violated one of the immutable rules
of safetyall guns are always loaded.
Another actually placed students near
the berm on the range while his instructors fired into the berm to familiarize the
students with incoming fire. I do not
think the gentle folk were Navy SEALs,
so this was highly uncalled for and dan124 TACTICAL WORLD | SPRING 2016
gerous. Never buy into anyone that

thinks the safety rules do not apply to
him. There is a proper time to walk out
of the class.
Q: What does an instructors demeanor
tell you?
BC: If the instructor does not know
how to wear a gun and wears a cheap
plastic holster that sags on his dress
belt, he has little experience in personal defense and probably doesnt
carry on a regular basis. There are tactical hypochondriacs that carry a high
capacity handgun, four spare magazines and two backup handguns. A
middle ground is preferred.
If the instructor doesnt listen to your
concerns or questions, it is time to forge
ahead and find another instructor. If you
end up in the wrong class with the wrong
instructor, you are not the Lone Ranger.
Many of us have wasted good money. It
An instructor
must be patient
and listen to
students
concerns.
Q: How about the diversity of classes?

BC: When the student asks, the instructor provides. A school with significant
time under its belt will meet the needs
of the student with different types of
classes. As an example, a group that
teaches a wide variety of skills is the
Massad Ayoob group. His certificates are
respected. This is the type of setting
that provides excellent instruction. The
instructors credentials are impeccable,
and the courses are a good baseline for
anyone. Be prepared to fire 500 rounds
or more in an advanced class. The
beginning classes are a requirement for
advanced courses.
certificate you receive for advanced training

Thesimply
means you have attended the class
and hopefully passed.
is part of the game, but doing your

research reduces the chances of a misstep. The teacher should be well spoken.
Some folks have good skills and try to
impart these upon their students, however they are simply not articulate.
If an instructor isnt patient with students, or monopolizes the class time
with war stories, (some are beneficial
some are not) you are likely listening to
a legend in his own mind. Anyone like
me that has 20 years or more of service

has a story to illustrate every type of
mistake. However, if in each case he
made the crooks and the fellow cops
look like morons, well, he may be less
than truthful. If these war stories do not
contain instances of his own mistakes or
when he had his butt kicked at least a
little, he and I went to a different church
or walked a different beat. His may have
been fictional.
INSTRUCTOR: GABRIEL SUAREZ

EXPERIENCE: TRAINER
Offering a wide variety of classes
including handguns. I singled out his rifle
course. Those wishing to master the rifle
should consider his training classes. As
an example, rifle training is rightly termed
Rifle Gunfighting. Unlike many classes
that focus on long-range gunfighting or
precision long-range fire this class centers upon 25 yards or less, typical
engagement ranges. Suarez also offers
advanced classes with the rifle. The first
is a requirement for the next rung on the
ladder. This is a recommended course for
anyone considering using the rifle for
home defense, in the course of official
duties, or for area defense. The more
advanced courses stretch the range and
challenge the student.
HORNADY AMMUNITION0
Police and military training

must be thoroughthis is
understood by veterans.
Is your instructor physically able to demonstrate firing from behind cover?

Over 600,000
Customers
INSTRUCTOR: STEVE JOHNSON
EXPERIENCE: STATE AND NRA
CERTIFIED INSTRUCTOR
Q: What is a shortcoming in training?
SJ: A lot of training is meatless. More
sizzle than steak. I agree with the
tiered system, and think that in the
future, the incremental style of training will be a strong favorite rather
than a course with refreshers. You will
expect more performance out of the
students with each class.
Q: Have seen a surprising number of rifle
courses offered?
SJ: In military training, that is what we
do. You will never be able to shoot
like the Rangers on a civilian budget.
There are great trainers who are great
shots and learned to shoot on a
select budget team firing 10,000
rounds a year. I would love to do that.
Who wouldnt? However, few will be
able to. The rifle can stop a war and
save lives. It is important training. The
handgun is most important only to
the person using it. Rifle training is a
real challenge as the ranges increase.
Shooter development is at a premium.
Q: Are there important influences on
every trainer?
SJ: In the professional training world,
you should go to a church and light a
candle for Jeff Cooper. But there are
many others that are unknowns outside the service or their agency who
have done excellent work.
Q: What is the future of training?
SJ: CI could never brainwash myself
enough to think that I had taught it all
or that the commentary is adequate. I
am struggling with my authorship every
session. As the world threat and
domestic terrorism change, our tactics
and training will too.
Q: Some think that every new firearm is
a great choice for service use. What is
your opinion?
Served Since 1998
As the world
threat and
domestic terrorism
change, our tactics
and training
will too.
SJ: Training costs more than a firearm. I

see cheap guns choke up and good
guns that have been poorly maintained
choke as well. Mechanical troubles
change the complexion of training. It is
an insult to the class to bring unreliable
gear you have not proofed before hand.
FDA-approved medications
from USA Pharmacies
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Q: In terms of instructors, what does the
future hold?
SJ: Only yesterday, as time is measured
in abstract, there were no independent
trainers teaching these skills and now
there are many.
I think that many with 20 to 35 years of
service are going to retire and enter the
training fieldperhaps earlier. They are
tremendous assets to the public. They
are foremost drilled in safetyI dont
want to be court marshaled for an accidentand they are smooth and thorough
when operating firearms. I think that it is
highly likely that training will be more
localized or more available, perhaps even
more affordable.
Now, you cannot write a great
story simply by learning to read or
train by virtue of being able to shoot.
But there are more good trainers
than ever. Also, I think many trainers
will fill a gap that exists even in well
organized institutions. TW
4
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BY BRET PERCHALUK
PHOTOS COURTESY OF BLACKHAWK!
rom the earliest warriors to modern heroes on the

front lines of todays fights, one thing has always
remained the same; protection of the feet is what
keeps the fight in the fighter. There is a paramount need
to keep the feet in working order when high-risk operations are at stake. If an operator cant scale that wall,
climb that Jacobs ladder, boot-in that door, or sprint
after that suspect, the bad guys have already won. So,
for that reason alone, technology has been poured into
the development of quality, battle-tested footwear for
our modern day Spartans.
One company that has taken up the challenge to create a
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The new version of this boot is an improvement to the original
Black Ops boot that was received by the tactical community
with great review.
Boasting a tough mix of abrasion-resistant
leather and Cordura, the uppers on this boot are guaranteed

to endure the most austere environments under operational
conditions. However, one of the best features of this boot is
the Vibram sole. The Vibram sole ensures the use of the boots
to be practical as well as tactical in a maritime environment.
The no-slip traction afforded by the Vibram sole, and the
SympaTex waterproof barrier, allow the operator to toggle
between dry land and wet vessel deck with ease. Couple this
with the moisture wicking inner lining, and the operator can
ensure a dry, comfortable fit for countless operations.
And when talking about injury prevention, look no further.
The support offered by the durable, non-woven, back counter
heel offers a reinforcement that will keep feet safe during the
hard pounding they take during a duty tour. As if this boot
wasnt functional enough, BLACKHAWK! added hidden side
pockets to stow important utility gear without advertising its
location. Furthermore, the 8-inch height, coupled with the
tongue pocket used to hide the laces, keeps these boots looking good when blousing uniform pants or prosecuting a doorway on a high risk warrant.
With a price tag of $219 in sizes 4.5M-6.5M and 7-14M or W,
these boots will fit most any size operator and fall way below
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cant go wrong donning a pair of Black Ops V2 in the field. TW
PHOTO BY JESSE CLEMENTS
ONE FINAL LOOK
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2015 Sturm, Ruger & Co., Inc.
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FROM THE EDITORS OF GUN WORLD

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AR-15 accessories you need and why you need them.

60 THE TACTICAL ADVANTAGE

8 RESPONSE AND RESCUE

In this day and age of terrorism, its imperative to

Theres more to staying alive than just shooting skills.

76 TRAINING WITH A PURPOSE

Weve highlighted the hottest gear and guns from this

Make the move from recreational shooter to defensive

4 TACTICAL WORLD | SPRING 2016

84 LIGHTER, STRONGER, BETTER

106 WRONG TURN

120 THE PATH TO EXCELLENCE

128 BLACK OPS V2 BOOTS

52 Red Dot Sights

6 From the Editor

112 Tactical Lights

130 One Final Look

ABOUT THE COVER

LETTER FROM THE

WHY YOU NEED

David Dolbee Editor

Untutored courage is useless in the face of educated bullets.

General George S. Patton

Ryan Price, James Ryen, Richard Schutz, Mike Searson, Straight 8

DIRECT MARKETING GROUP

EDITORIAL, PRODUCTION & SALES OFFICE

U.S. NAVY PHOTO BY AIRMAN KRISTOPHER WILSON

oday, many Americans suffer from delusions.

TACTICAL WORLD is published by Engaged Media Inc., LLC,

ENGAGED MEDIA INC.

6 TACTICAL WORLD | SPRING 2016

Mastering the Bounding Overwatch

n the wake of several recent terrorist attacks

8 TACTICAL WORLD | SPRING 2016

tions with many moving parts, like an active shooter.

SPRING 2016 | TACTICAL WORLD 9

only firearms safety and maintenance

nuances involved when defending

auditory occlusion [loss of hearing], loss

on end. They become bewildered and

COMMUNICATION: The normal

prevent the suspect from escaping.

According to The Police Responses

leapfrog past one another. Instead,

that, the team must be broken up

personnel will not or cannot be on the

care techniques to save lives, and as

Since gunshots usually

Since gunshots usually result in