PMCI - February 2015

IMAGE REMOVED FOR OPSEC

FEBRUARY 2015

CONTENTS

4 CROPS TRAINING We speak to Ben Wall of CROPS about training for Covert Rural Surveillance 8 BOOK REVIEW: COVERT RURAL SURVEILLANCE 10 ARE YOU TOUGH ENOUGH FOR SSFN SERE? Survival Training in Slovenia for the military and security professionals 15 MANUFACTURER PROFILE Applied Orange have developed a new clothing system for the security professional and we get first look.

18 LIFESTYLE Power charging on the go; the Solarmonkey Adventurer!

Editor (UK): Bill Thomas Editor (International): Dan Eastes Graphic Design: Havoc Design Publisher: Nigel Streeter PMCI Magazine is a digital-only publication, published bi-monthly and available FREE OF CHARGE via the PMCI app on the

20 GEAR FOR THE GOOD GUYS! The PMCI Team make their recommendations the latest gear to hit the market!

following platforms: Apple iOS, Android,

26 KNIVES AND TOOLS Transforming a Bear Grylls Paracord knife for tactical use.

For more information visit our publishing

28 TACTICAL INNOVATION AR500 Armor and Tactical Tailor combined in a life saving package 33 FIREARMS The lowdown on the Walther PPQ

Windows 8, and Windows Phone.

partner: www.PocketMags.com PMCI can also be read online at: www.issuu.com Calibre Publishing Limited Wyche Innovation Centre,

37 MAINTENANCE Clenzoil products for firearms cleaning.

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38 BOOK REVIEW: WINNING WARS AMONGST THE PEOPLE

Worcestershire,

40 INDUSTRY VACANCIES Looking for work? Just check here.

Upper Colwall, Malvern, WR13 6PL Tel: 01684 878 003 Web: www.pmcimagazine.com ©Calibre Publishing Limited 2014

Copyright © Calibre Publishing 2014. All rights are reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise without the express permission of the publisher in writing. The opinion of the writers do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher. The Editors reserve the right to edit submissions prior to publication.

Thank you for downloading this Edition of PMCI, the FREE digital publication dedicated to PMC Operatives. PMCI is written by individuals with first hand knowledge and experience of the subject they write about - people like Col. Gerry Schumacher (USSF Ret.), author Simon Chambers and ex-TL Dan E, all of whom have an intimate understanding of what the role entails and the day to day challenges faced by PMCs. PMCI will provide a platform to review and discuss the things to matter to all of us, such personal equipment, training, employment and lifestylestyle management - and these are also our core fundamentals. We hope you enjoy this Edition of PMCI and if you have any feedback or comments, or would like to contrubute to future issues, please let us know by email to: editor@pmcimagazine.com PHOTO CREDITS: Authors where applicable, Shutterstock.com, Istockphoto.com

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Letter, idea or question?

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COMPANY PROFILE:

CROPS

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TRAINING:

CROPS SCHOOL OF RURAL SURVEILLANCE

At PMCI we are always interested in looking at unique training courses and programmes that will let serving personnel or those leaving the military hone certain areas of their skillset. Recently I was lucky enough to speak to Ben Wall of CROPS School of Surveillance to find out what they’re all about.

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had a look at Bens excellent book on Covert Rural Surveillance (you’ll find a review of this on page 8), and after reading it I was intrigued to find out more about the CROPS School of Surveillance, how they came into being, their ethos, and exactly what they offer in terms of training courses. What I discovered after talking to Ben was something very unique indeed!

PMCI: What led you to write your book?

While working full time as a surveillance officer I started typing out all the skills, drills and selftaught knowledge I had gained over the years.

By the time I believed I had finished two big ring binders had been filled, and as time went by this turned into four. I then approached an individual who I have a massive amount of professional respect for about a possible project, there was clearly a gap in the market for a training manual for this specialised skill set. And so ‘Covert Rural Surveillance’ became a full on project kept a secret by only the very few involved.

Once published it would become the base syllabus to all of our ‘green skills’ courses, students coming on our courses with little or no knowledge of the discipline could read through the manual in their own time or before attending the course, this way a solid foundation was laid. Those who already had a skill set could use it as a best book or a skills reminder when required

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PMCI: So Ben, in your own words tell me what led you to set up CROPS? I came to a junction in my career, continue with what I was doing and risk someone else creating the idea I had developed over a six year period, or leave while in my mid-thirty’s current and with more experience than my competitors in this environment. I chose the latter; although I miss the military I know it was the right decision.

There are loads of companies delivering urban surveillance courses, some good ones, and some very bad ones. Because of this I felt the market was flooded and looked at a different angle, it only made sense to create a training company that concentrated on my passion, the rural environment. It was my aim to create a leading company in rural surveillance training and operations, but of course there’s always those who hope to see you fail!

When first setting up CROPS I had a number of people telling me that there was no market or requirement for the type of training courses I wanted to run, how wrong where they! In truth I now know it was simply down to a number of factors, firstly them feeling intimated by a younger more active training company offering current tactics and covert surveillance methods which are been used on the ground today, not 20 years ago. Secondly having limited or no knowledge in this area of surveillance so dismissing it at every opportunity, I was once told “if people aren’t buying bread, don’t open a bread shop”. How wrong this person was.

Since starting up in 2011 CROPS has become the foremost surveillance company to be used in the rural and remote environments, this in both as a training asset and operational.

PMCI: Who do you see as your target customer for your courses?

Having recently been approved by the MoD as a preferred supplier to the ECLAS scheme, I would like to see a steady rise in those service leavers coming to CROPS to be trained before stepping out into the commercial surveillance arena.

But I must let it be known that we are not interested in churning out hundreds of inadequately trained individuals in a numbers game played by some providers, we keep our courses to small numbers of 4 to 6 students as we feel the student receives a better quality of instruction and allows us to spend more time on the ground next to the student should a question be raised.

We must not forget the service ‘stayer’; CROPS is continuously working within many serving units delivering our own in house tactics and operational methods alongside the military’s conventional subject matter. This is an excellent way of introducing new kit and ideas to what can be something very out dated and set in stone!

We relate to these as our ‘GREEN’ and ‘BLUE’ skills training courses.

PMCI: You talk about ‘GREEN’ and ‘BLUE’ skills training, can you tell me more about these and where this idea came from?

Of course, so are GREEN skills are all based around the rural environment as I’m sure you can guess; however gone are the days of camouflage face cream and large heavy Ghillie suits. Our aim is to teach students how to operate in this green environment which is none-alarming to the general population, being able to move around the countryside unseen and remaining concealed at all times, all of the military style kit and equipment that we use is concealed from view until required.

Our 5 day Level 3 rural surveillance course, or better known to us as the bail-out course is delivered most months, as already stated we only allow 4 – 6 students per course. All equipment is provided within the issued ‘bail-out belt’ that was developed by us and is in use every day on surveillance tasks.

To accompany this course we run our 10 day Level 4 covert surveillance management, Level 3 covert camera construction & deployment and finally the tactical photography training.

The BLUE skills consist of our very popular 7 day Level 4 urban surveillance operator’s course which we have carefully rewritten to ensure it suits the current level that surveillance operatives are working at, we have introduced many new topics which other providers do not teach, also students on our course get hands on technology that is in most cases, only seen and used by tier one level operators, we insure the students move with the times and understand how important this is.

To accompany this course we have are 3 day static platforms course and 2 day technical vehicle tracking course, also we are currently writing another course to complete the blue skills.

CROPS

PMCI: Do you train just military and police personnel or civilians too?

No, our courses are open to anyone. The CROPS training team enjoys training individuals from all walks of life, and we ensure that all of our courses are conducted at the correct level and pace to suit the student. After all they are paying to be taught a very particular skill set so we must get it right!

PMCI: What exactly do you specialise in?

At the school we concentrate on delivering the most comprehensive rural surveillance training packages available to the civilian market, these courses include both ‘organic’ surveillance tactics and ‘technical’ surveillance tactics in the deployment of covert camera systems and GPS tracking devices.

However, over the 18 months we have received many emails and phone calls requesting that we run an ‘urban surveillance’ package to accompany the rural aspect of what we do, this giving the student a more rounded skill set. After all, as a company we do conduct over 250hrs of live surveillance per month in both the urban and rural environments, so we set to work designing an up to date urban operates course which differs from the tired old type ‘w’ course used by other providers in their foot and mobile syllabuses.

COMPANY PROFILE:

PMCI: When and where did you start running your courses?

CROPS first started delivering its courses back in 2011, back then it was a mixture of teaching our own syllabus on CROPS courses and being sub-contracted as guest instructors for already well established training companies. I enjoyed this and gained an insight into the differences between military run training and that within the civilian sector.

When delivering our own training I would rent a classroom within small converted barn complex, this was great at first but not belonging to us it came with restrictions. The outdoor training part was easy; we had the use of 3000 acres of private land across the midlands which we could do as we pleased, and we still use this same land today.

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COMPANY PROFILE:

CROPS

pmcimagazine.com PMCI: I know that you have an excellent training facility in the Midlands; can you tell me more about that and what you do there?

Yes, we have a purpose built indoor training facility within a quiet rural complex, driving up the private driveway allows students to get a glimpse of the 200 acres of training ground they will soon experience. What they don’t see at this point is the 2800 acres of exercise ground we have located across the midlands; this is solely kept for the confirmatory exercises.

When first walking into the school students are faced with the display area, straight away answering the question, “have I made the right choice”.

Our main classroom hosts a fully equipped wide screen power point with an array of wall displays including images, text, associated tactics and skills which students can read and visually learn from. All mapping of the areas are displayed on what creates the work table, here students can mark any of their exercise plans to help when giving the instructors their mission briefs. With our outdoor enclosed area we conduct most of our tradecraft days, here they are held out of sight to the public.

PMCI: Do you offer your own services in your market area?

Yes, CROPS provide a very discreet and professional service to all sectors, our teams will regularly conduct 250hrs of live surveillance each month, this via two means.

The first is the deployment of our self-reliant manned teams, known to us as ‘organic’ operating state-of-the-art equipment both day and night and in all weathers.

The second is our un-manned technical surveillance deployments; these are in the form of static covert camera placements for short or long periods, Technical vehicle platforms containing thousands of pounds worth of recording devices and our very own GPS vehicle tracking systems.

PMCI: Without going into specifics who do you, and your successful trainees, work with?

Now that would be telling ☺ We conduct live surveillance instructions and bespoke training for many UK and overseas clients, these can be commercial, private and discreet organisations, as well as Military, Law-enforcement and Government departments.

PMCI: Do you offer training in specialised equipment?

Yes, as mentioned we run a covert camera placement course which holds a Level 3 accreditation; here students learn all about the technical requirements and are trained in all aspects of the different operational placement tactics and techniques, this includes the caretaking and retrieval. With practical hands on sessions we cover topics showing the student how best to deploy our own in house sensors and clueing equipment alongside their cameras.

Finally deploying a number of real time camera placements in both the urban and rural settings.

PMCI: Do you have all the equipment available as part of your courses?

Yes, we pride ourselves on equipping every student with the correct gear to learn the job, our students are paying a lot of money to train with us so it’s only right that we deliver an unbeatable service.

When I was sub-contracting for training companies I was horrified to see what rubbish was being handed out to students, sometime you could see the disbelief in their faces! Because of moments like that I ensured that time and money was spent to deliver realistic training with realistic equipment.

Students attending one of our ‘green skills’ courses will be each issued with their own ‘bail out belt’ containing a personal concealment suit, veil and gloves, and hand

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held recording equipment. To accompany this, each pair will be issued two Bergen’s, one containing full hide construction equipment, the other a technical Bergen which contains stills cameras, lenses, visual optics and communications equipment; on the more advance courses we supply the students with covert camera systems.

If opting to undertake our ‘blue skills’ courses the students are this time issued a ‘belt out bag’ containing small urban items required, each student is issued with a personal radio and covert loop with ear peg. The vehicles are each equipped with a larger car radio set which can be man-packed if required, and a full urban hide construction kit which does get deployed on exercises! To accompany these items the cars are fitted with high-spec hidden camera systems and the full use of our GPS tracking equipment is issued to the student.

“We provide you with the correct gear to learn the job”

PMCI: Where do you see CROPS evolving in the future?

As our reputation grows rapidly, we are fast becoming the surveillance provider to train with. I would like to see CROPS expanding more into European and American markets, looking to run joint courses or bolt on skills to overseas training schools.

Currently we are taking our time and working on a number of new courses, one of which will hold a Level 5 qualification; this we are sure will raise the standards and introduce a new level of teaching.

We are also working closely with another organisation to develop a number of very cool surveillance products, these will at some stage feature on our new website shop which is being developed right now.

PMCI: If someone reading this article likes the sound of what you offer, what should be their next step?

They can write to our address: CROPS, Po Box 16464, Bromsgrove, B60 9HP, England Or Telephone: +44 (0) 7526 318 492 – +44 (0) 7926 490 794 Use the contact us page found on the website: www.crops.uk.com And finally email direct to: info@crops.uk.com

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BOOK REVIEW Covert Rural Surveillance

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COVERT RURAL SURVEILLANCE It’s been my real pleasure this month to interview Ben Wall about his courses in Covert Rural Surveillance Operations, and you’ll find a complete overview of what CROPS offer starting on Page 4 of this issue of PMCI. What led me to the interview in the first place was reading Bens detailed and informative book on the subject, and whether you’re involved in this professionally or just have an interest, then this is a book you should really have on your shelf for regular reference.

Covert Rural Surveillance is the definitive tradecraft manual dedicated to modern military techniques and covert tactics for rural operations, especially those involving surveillance. With over 550 pages and in excess of 1500 colour images and diagrams the book offers an unrivalled insight onto this unique subject.

And Ben Wall is the very man to cover this as he served in the British Military for many years and conducted operations in a reconnaissance and surveillance role.

As a qualified reconnaissance instructor he was a member of the directing staff on numerous military courses, directly training other soldiers in this specialised field. Since leaving the military, Ben has worked in the private sector, conducting covert surveillance and investigations in the UK and overseas, as well as running specialist training courses.

He fully understands that the rural environment is by far the most challenging, requiring the most stringent personal discipline.

He has amassed the content of his book over many years whilst running courses, and his professionalism, knowledge, and enthusiasm for his subject shines out from every page. The book is logically and clearly laid out and covers planning and preparation, clothing and equipment, comms, land navigation, fieldcraft, patrol skills, constructing concealed rural hides, logging and reporting, and close target recce.

There are also excellent technical sections discussing the specialist hardware required for covert rural operations, as well as a detailed section dealing with the law and legal issues pertinent to the subject. All in all this is a very thorough overview of a fascinating type of operating style, and comes highly recommended by PMCI.

Author: Ben Wall Publisher: Intel Publishing ISBN: 978-09535378 46 Price: £34.99

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CROPS

Covert Surveillance Training ‘Providing you with the right skills and equipment to learn the job’ GREEN SKILLS TRAINING COURSES AVAILABLE: 10 Day Level 4 Covert Rural Surveillance Management 5 Day Level 3 Covert Rural Surveillance ‘Bail-out’ Course 5 Day Level 3 Covert Camera Construction & Deployment 2 Day Tactical Photography Training BLUE SKILLS TRAINING COURSES AVAILABLE: 10 Day Level 5 Strategic Surveillance Controllers Course 7 Day Level 4 Covert Urban Surveillance Operators Course 3 Day Static Surveillance Platforms Course 2 Day Technical GPS Vehicle Tracking Course

www.crops.uk.com Visit our website to find out more

Train to where you want to be

Tel 01642 941510 www.arg.uk.com training@arg.uk.com

TRAINING: SSFN SERE TRAINING SCHOOL

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TRAINING: SSFN SERE TRAINING SCHOOL

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Over the past couple of years it has been my great privilege to get to know a truly inspirational man, an individual that has lived out the adventures that most of us only dream about, and then transformed them into a survival training programme that is respected worldwide.

Working with specialist military units Brane T. Cervek has been teaching hostile environment survival, escape and evasion courses for over 23 years.

Not only that but he has also spent some considerable time and money developing his own “LandCamo ABD” camouflage patterns which I’ll be covering in a future issue of PMCI. He is a unique individual whose story I am pleased to be able to share.

PMCI: Brane, in your own words tell me what led you to set up the SSFN and the SERE programme I would say thoughts lead all things and thoughts give them birth and shape. My first childhood dream world came out of nature itself. Back then as a kid there was constant outdoor play just as Tarzan did in the jungle. I realized pretty soon that my own “jungle” is in the discovery of this magical world that we have been put into to survive. I knew quite from the beginning there must be much more than just hard pronouncing scientific names of the world that surrounds us, there must be a whole knowledge and universe of hidden secrets that can be revealed; the curiosity of how our forefathers lived and survived instilled in me an urge to discover these mostly forgotten secrets, not forgotten by survivalists, but forgotten by the average person

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PMCI: When and where did you start running your courses?

Everything began back in the year 1991 when my country declared independence to split away from the now ex-Yugoslavian republic and war for my country erupted. My courses started in Slovenia and then spread to some European countries and Australia.

PMCI: Who do you see as your target customer for your courses?

There is a room for anyone who’s brave enough to endure their own true personality, psychology and other capabilities, but they work best with the people whose life just might depend on it, mostly military SF units, reconnaissance units, combat pilots, air crews, Snipers, Swat teams and private Military contractors.

One of the problems we have in the modern world is the individual who has become a member of the “Playstation Generation” and sadly this also affects a number of soldiers.

They are all soldiers on sunny days, but when the rain comes they prefer playing soldiers in some first person action game on the computer safe at home. My courses are designed to be hard and robust; this brings the individual back to his roots, how his forefathers survived hundreds if not thousands of years ago. It is inside all of us “the inherent need to survive”; all I do is bring that out in the individual and develop their skill set.

TRAINING: SSFN SERE TRAINING SCHOOL

who for too long now has relied on finding food and medicine on a supermarket shelf. Eventually that silent call came to me and very soon after that I left to live among Australian Aborigines where I tested my beliefs and knowledge in the most challenging environments for two years. Doing so I got confirmation that I was right and got initiated and adopted into four different Aboriginal tribes as the first white European to do so.

I strongly believe nothing comes without reason and my dream was to become a reality and lead me to my own survival school for Special Forces conducting S.E.R.E. and other Survival courses.

In general, I was lead into this path by curiosity simply because of the magic of discovering and the thirst for knowledge. The SSFN is the product of my early way of living and programs that I conduct evolved from basic needs of any people facing survival situations.

My wide range of survival work, achievements and knowledge behind all that, lead me towards a military interest. Eventually I finished up training Special Operating units, members and other military branches within my SSFN S.E.R.E. programme.

The Ministry of Defense requests my programs because I can give them real insight to any units’ state, and also about the individual and group psychological and physical standpoint. There is always a huge psychological impact on every individual, from the initial shock of isolation, the fear of capture, to when and how long it will take to be rescued; as time goes on the fear of not finding water and then food settles in, and all these factors have huge psychological effects. I have to admit possession of survival skills are also welcome to Rescue units, Civil Protection units, Mountain Rescuers, Individual adventurers, War correspondents and the like. As a big step forward, this year I will hold two major training events; the first one is a huge International Rescue Unit EUROSAR-SURVIVAL training, and the second one is S.E.R.E. course for the members of CISOR – (Confédération Interalliée des Sousofficiers de Réserve) - Interallied Confederation of Reserve NonCommissioned Officers.

If you visit my civil website page you will see I also have numerous civil programs that anyone can take part in and experience.

PMCI: I know that you have excellent training facilities that you make use of throughout Europe; can you tell me more about them and what you do there?

Slovenia covers many different environmental areas; the Karst area is dry and hot, and there are huge unbroken forest areas, mountains and Alps. The terrain I use for conducting the basic training course is one of the most environmentally intact areas in Slovenia and known for its vast variety of wildlife, mostly populated by high number of bears, wolves and wild boars. In some ways, these are my companions during any Survival training as they help to instil fear and vulnerability into the individual and to make them more aware of the reality of a real survival situation and their surroundings.

Regarding unit preparations for my training? There is no upfront preparation for any military unit that has been sent to me

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TRAINING: SSFN SERE TRAINING SCHOOL

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to experience the reality of real life survival within my S.E.R.E. program. Now they are all in “my office” in the wilderness and real life starts immediately and all modern toys ends here.

No matter what rank or medals they have they are all the same and equally treated under my controlled program.

My basic program is set on 7 days duration, so that gives me plenty of time to find out each individuals good and bad points; those with good and useful ones I try to turn into better, those with bad ones I help to erase them. All candidates come to the training with full gear and weapons, but usually that is all taken away at the spot and they are left with nothing but bare feet and empty hands. Yes, I do take boots away too; they need to earn them back! When? That depends on them! If the target training group isn’t an SF unit, they keep all their equipment but they are not allowed to use it and they need to carry it all the time.

All the necessary gear they need, they have to improvise and create from ground zero, as this way they can get real respect of the gear that the military issues to them. Everything on my course is self-discipline driven by will power and every individual has it within themselves to succeed in a survival situation. Let’s start with my basic survival program, also known worldwide as S.E.R.E. Once I get my military unit at the starting location, we go fast and hard through the essentials that everybody needs to be clear with, about safety regulations.

The Unit is then split into two individual groups with their own chosen leaders, who will carry out all my demands, for the given situation. They get maps and location points they need to follow, but the terrain is harsh and filled with many natural obstacles. Their first contact with nature is water and there is a rule to move only on the river bed at all times for 18 hours.

On the way, there are numerous useful modern waste items that I set on the track in the hope that the students will see the potential survival applications for those items. Should these opportunities be overlooked they will suffer further during the course. By ignoring these useful items and opportunities they are punished again and again by me taking away future goods that might be waiting for them. This punishment will continue breaking down their will; however if they successfully identify items of use and collect them they will be rewarded further during the course as “success brings rewards”. After being more or less in the water for 18+hours now they get out of it and by now they are deeply in the wilderness, usually still without any useful objects, and now they need to find a base camp location where they will set up improvised shelters. After finishing them they now have 1 hour to set up a fire, with unusual techniques... if successful they can have it for one hour to warm up a bit and this is it for this night! If not successful, we will keep trying till morning with one hour spacing. My rule here is to keep them by themselves and alone at all times, provoking their minds to start acting in logical way. I do provide them with small hints but no practical demonstrations, this way I get clear picture of their logical thinking and abilities under stress, tiredness, thirst and fear. More or less by now I can already see their true psychological and physical state.

I train them at all times to learn about the non-rhythmic behaviour of a survival situation, and so by this technique I get their attention and readiness to start learning from scratch, with no answers like “I thought so, I saw that on YouTube, I did that once and so on & on”. Because none of that ever happened in their life; if they had any experience like that before, they would know it and succeed by now with any task I gave to

them. Season or weather is not relevant, but only their will to learn and survive. From morning on till the end of training they are now under my lead of learning about survival. This is all I can divulge so you can get a picture of what and how my SSFN SERE training works. In just seven days they lose between 7-12 kg of their body weight and candidates are kept with no water for 84 hours.

PMCI: You provide field training; what does this entail?

That literally means the true experience of the unknown, as only that will make you think and use your will, your imagination, your logic, your inner skills or you will simply break. On the field training there are no holding points, no rhythm of life that we are familiar with, nothing that can remind you of everyday life in the barracks or at home. You are simply here and degraded, but throughout the programme you learn, you succeed; more importantly you survive!

PMCI: Do you train just military and police personnel or civilians too?

Yes, I do train civilians as there are many civil organisations that require such skills, but I do that mostly because people are just way to spoilt and lazy with no true sight on real life that can erupt into devastating events very easily caused by natural catastrophes that are seem to happen more often than ever this days. Just last year there were numerous floods, severe winter conditions, fires and earthquakes that shook everyday self-evident life to pieces, and many people died waiting for rescue while they could have helped themselves, if they only had the basic survival training.

There are programmes that I provide for schools, company team building, scouts, and just lately I have increased survival programs for families and their children. This just might help to develop a more responsible younger generation.

PMCI: Do you offer training in specialised equipment?

I do have good relationship with the MOD who can provide me with logistical support, medical teams, helicopters with crews and if necessary Special Operation unit cooperation in S.E.R.E. based trainings.

PMCI: Do you have all the equipment available as part of your courses?

Basic equipment is the customer! It’s the units own concern. By that I mean I don’t provide candidates with clothing, nor any other outdoor accessories, simply because there are so many different tastes and beliefs in different manufacturers and brands. What I do, is they get clear picture what equipment is advised but the choice is theirs. The only thing I require is they need to bring along some dry animal bones and pine tree resin.

As you know by now, I work with a non gear based, true and rough survival method and because out there you can always find some human industrial waste like plastic, glass, ceramics, steel, aluminum etc. Everything can be done and improvised on the spot. We make everything from basic weapons and tools that are very efficient, knifes, blades, axes, bow and arrows, spears, cloth, footwear, water containers, ropes, cement glue, fuel, medicine, and tick and mosquito repellents.

PMCI: Once trainees have successfully completed one of your courses can they buy the equipment from you?

They can buy LandCamo professional gear uniforms in my ADB series of camouflage pattern at the LandCamo company.

PMCI: Once trained, how do those successfully attending your courses go about finding employment?

Many people seek my training to build on their own knowledge in their own chosen field of employment; this group mainly consists of SF units and fighter pilots/aircrews, and an increasing number of private military contractors. For others it’s individuals who express an interest in attending SF selection at some point in their military career. For non military, some people have the urge to just be prepared and have a basic survival knowledge in order to protect themselves and their families should the need arise, and for many other personal reasons.

PMCI: What led you to develop your own camouflage patterns?

My camouflage patterns arose from a personal and professional interest into the approach of individual and global camouflage research, from long-term vision and definitive from the facts which appeared out from firsthand results. The result came on my palm, after providing many Special Operation units survival trainings and so vast recognition of their camouflage effectiveness is vital to their missions’ outcome. The second part of my camouflage pattern evolution goes on account of dissatisfaction of the current patterns on the market and in the global use. My judgment is that in many attempts today’s camouflage patterns in use around the globe by surprisingly many modern armed forces are unfortunately a very big disappointment for those who are equipped-in and all of us expect so much from them.

So, all my camouflage patterns were created from extensive involvement and research in nature observation, from the studying of foliage growth directions and shapes to insects and reptiles, also in the way sun light influences colors and creates shadows, natural patterns and cracks in rock formations and surfaces. From the search of most common shapes and very small disruptive elements in their natural environment, that interferes with human visual perception and changes how we identify things in their natural surroundings. I always seek for hidden elements, those that are usually the most exposed, but those we humans don’t see, being so occupied with all the other elements which are related with our emotions.

PMCI: Where do you see SSFN and Cerberus Tactical evolving in the future?

SSFN will continue to provide professionally run courses for the Military sector, and we are currently exploring the prospects of developing further courses for the civilian market, concentrating initially on government and NGO rescue teams. We are also working on courses for the private military industry, in order to cater for contractors and companies that are looking to deploy in high risk areas where the possibilities of being cut off or isolated in a remote area is very high.

Cerberus Tactical is still in its infancy of becoming a major player in the tactical clothing market. To date we have set up a research and development department and are currently testing a number of clothing designs and a custom camouflage design (sadly we are tied by a NDA and can’t release any further details

or photos at this time). Our R&D team is headed up by one of my partners who has had over 20 years military service in the British Army. He knows and understands the rigours and abuse most soldiers will put themselves and their uniforms through on a daily basis when deployed in the field and also on operations. We are currently testing several clothing designs in various terrains and climates in order to ensure that when we go into production you will be sure that whatever item you purchase, it has been researched and tested to destruction to ensure that the product you wear will stand up to any climate, terrain or mission.

We are planning to have production items in market by the 4th quarter of 2015, and to continue to develop further lines throughout this year, with many new products being released throughout 2016. We also wish to continue to develop our design facility, in order to cater for custom camouflage designs for Military, Private Military companies, SF units, Law Enforcement, SWAT teams and finally for civilian hunters.

PMCI: If someone reading this article likes the sound of what you offer, what should be their next step?

They can simply visit my web page and contact me by my e-mail at anytime with their request of my services and they will get all the necessary information for further steps applying as Government or NGO. For more information please visit: Civil interest webpage: www.ssfn.si/eng/index.html Military interest webpage: www.ssfn.si/sere/index.html For further information on both uniform and camouflage developments please visit www.facebook.com/ CerberusTacticalUK and www.landcamo.si

TRAINING: SSFN SERE TRAINING SCHOOL

PMCI: Without going into specifics who do you, and your successful trainees, work with?

I have trained many SF units and aircrews from various countries over the years. Without giving any details away about individuals or units, I’m aware of a number of those units have served in Iraq, Afghanistan, Chad, Lebanon, Bosnia and Kosovo during those conflicts. They continue to work with NATO allied forces on either operations or training exercises.

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LIFESTYLE COMMS & TIME

The LEVEL 7 is lightweight winter jacket

which provides insulation and protection against frost, wind and light showers.

Climashield® Apex™ provides thermal insulation and ultimate warmth. Two chest pockets are lined with fleece to provide protection against frostbite.

The hood can be easily adjusted without removing hands from the chest pockets via two drawstrings located there.

Climashield® Apex™ insulation (grammage: 100g body; 67g hood).

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APPLIED ORANGE HIGH RISK CLOTHING SYSTEM

The team at PMCI know all about the Dutch garment maker Applied Orange as we are already users of their high-end flame retardant products. While it might seem to have been quiet surrounding new developments and products from them we know for sure they haven’t been sitting still over the last 6 months.

IMAGE REMOVED FOR OPSEC

The jump-off point of a multiple garment offering developed into a 5 piece system. The entire system is designed to work in a complementary way so each garment can provide the best conformity and functionality. Multilayer flame retardant garments have the added value of providing additional protection to flame and heat, so when used on conjunction the garments serve multiple purposes.

From moment one, each single garment was designed around Ten Cate Defender M fabric. While initial testing within the unit was done with garments based on this fabric, the durability, comfort and quick drying capabilities proved this was the right fabric to continue development on as well. Applied Orange have been working intimately with Royal Ten Cate for years and this has given them a true edge in designing garments that get the most out of the performance of Defender M fabrics. Even the jersey fabrics used in the clothing system are flame retardant Ten Cate fabrics that are truly comfortable to the user but still give the required protection.

GEAR ON TEST: APPLIED ORANGE

F

or those that are new to Applied Orange here is a short company profile. Based in the Netherlands, Applied Orange designs and manufactures premium tactical garments for various tactical end uses and environments. Their almost exclusive use of flame retardant fabrics and European garment sizing along with European production capabilities makes their products amongst the worlds finest in quality, protection and durability.

About a year ago they were asked by a well known European ‘Blue’ Special Forces unit to participate in the development of a flame retardant garment system for discreet usage. The requirement was a tough one, namely being a unique and newly developed multiple piece garment system that provided top notch protection when used in environments with the highest threat levels.

The basic kit the average unit member would currently take along into these environments is usually a mix of high-end outdoor and civilian wear. While these garments provide the right look for the job they did not offer the wearer any protection. This might sound very recognisable as it’s common practice for most non-uniformed services. On this basis the (High) Risk Environment Civilian Clothing System was conceived.

The challenge in developing such a system obviously lay in the fact the garments would have to incorporate a lot of functionality but still retain a casual, outdoor look. While it would be impossible to get a true non-overt design and still have enough functionality to fall back on when it’s needed, there are many ways to hide certain elements and shapes in such a way that the overtly tacti(cool) look isn’t present. This is largely achieved by using durable yet more casual stitching and construction.

A few months of trialing and testing the existing Applied Orange products on durability and comfort showed which products could be adapted and which ones to design from scratch.

Usage in well known hot spots and continuous heavy usage showed the garments to be very resilient and durable, even when it came to the often interesting local ways of doing laundry!

Extensive work soon began on designing new garments with the emphasis on the small details and the often highly specific functionality required. It took substantial design and prototype iterations to finally get the products re-trialed and ready to final production standard.

To top off the requirements the unit has female and male personnel. This meant all designs have to be gender specific.

While this might sound a matter of adjusting sleeve length the truth couldn’t be father from that. The garments in the system are purposely designed specifically for the male or female body shape.

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THE SYSTEM

GEAR ON TEST: APPLIED ORANGE

The initial system consists of the following products: • • • • •

Further development on additional garments is already underway.

One of the specific requirements of the system is the use in conjunction with various plate carriers, low profile body armour and chest rigs. These are wearable on the low profile under armour shirt, polo shirt and long sleeve base layer shirt. When worn in conjunction with the concealment shirt the rig or carrier will generally be completely covered.

While other shirts have a lot of trouble with pilling because of the velcro elements in equipment being directly exposed on the fabric, the Ten Cate materials prove very resilient to this abrasion and are highly durable when worn day in day out with hard nylon equipment.

Joint protection is achieved with integrated D3O pads. The Low profile shirt and ops-trousers respectively have internal and external pad holders that make the pads as covert as possible while still being at the right place at the right time when you need them.

Looking at each part of the system individually there are some key points to bring out.

LOW PROFILE UNDER ARMOUR SHIRT

The Low profile under armour shirt is an adaptation of the combat proven Applied Orange UBAX shirt, a cutting edge design which we already recommend highly. While most major features have been retained the arms feature a different pocket layout and design with integrated pen holders. This allows for the low profile shirt to be worn under the concealment shirt and proves less tactical looking when worn as a top layer without a plate carrier or chest rig.

LONG SLEEVE BASE LAYER SHIRT

The long sleeve base layer shirt is a fast drying moisture wicking solution to be worn under the low profile shirt or as a top layer.

Its design could be something you would buy at your local outdoor pursuits store yet it features a great ergonomic design that’s not too tight on the body but won’t flap about or cause double fabric layers under a plate carrier. The shirt has an extra long design to stop it from crawling out of your trousers when getting in and out a vehicle multiple times day.

POLO SHIRT

The Polo shirt is a semi-casual alternative for the long sleeve to be worn in places where it’s desirable to be dressed less casually. What makes this polo so special is it’s one of the few on the market that features flame retardant fabrics and is short sleeve. As an extra it has integrated pen holders on both arms.

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IMAGE REMOVED FOR OPSEC

Low Profile Under Armour Shirt Long Sleeve Base Layer Shirt Polo Shirt Ops-Trousers Semi-Casual Concealment Shirt

OPS-TROUSERS

The Ops-Trousers were designed from scratch for the garment system and have some truly innovative features. They bear no resemblance to previous Applied Orange designs and are a really great bit of kit. While we will not get into all the specifics it is all about the fit and storage options. The hip centered design allows for optimal use when worn with a duty belt or battle belt.

Storage is provided in 10 different pockets of various sizes and purposes ranging from hidden upper leg pockets for phones and small items to an dressing pocket on the lower legs.

In common with Applied Orange products all functionality is ambidextrous. One of the most innovative features is the large cargo pocket with an elastic hem and self closing flap complemented with an alternative access zipper (large enough to operate with cloves and big hands) that opens in reverse for use in a vehicle; these pockets are low profile yet offer easy access and a large storage capability.

SEMI-CASUAL CONCEALMENT SHIRT

One specific requirement of the unit was a casual, even semicasual looking shirt that’s oversized enough to conceal a plate carrier or chest rig to give that 1-2 seconds extra of being less obvious when de-bussing in a high risk area. Applied Orange came up with a solution based on a shirt you’d find at your nearest tailor, as it wouldn’t look out of place even when worn with a suit. The front is closed with snap buttons for quick release and fast access to vital equipment.

The entire system is available in various colour ways. The flexibility of the Applied Orange production facility allows for garments to be made in small numbers and a range of colours; these range from various greens and tans to the brand new Urban Grey that you’ll see in the photo’s. However any colour is possible and can be purposely manufactured.

Excitingly this also seems to be the first public appearance of flame retardant urban grey. It’s a known fact this colour is a growing trend within various tactical and professional communities. With the addition of a flame retardant variant it seems Applied Orange can now fill the gap to use this colour on an operational basis in high risk environments.

Applied Orange is bringing the (RECCS) Risk Environment Civilian Clothing System to market in the first quarter of 2015.

However, they have made it clear that due to the fact it was designed for governmental use it won’t be commercially available; any potential buyer has to match the end user criteria.

For more information interested parties are encouraged to contact gov@appliedorange.com.

Pictures courtesy of Gerard van Oosbree / Dutch Defence Press

LIFESTYLE

SOLAR MONKEY

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SOLAR

MONKEY

Late last year during a gear testing trip in the Pyrenees I had the opportunity to test the Solarmonkey Adventurer from Powertraveller. Let’s face it, we carry more and more communications and navigation devices with us when we travel these days, and having something that’s light and portable to recharge them is a godsend.

With power a scarce commodity in some parts of the World, Powertraveller realised that a balance between solar charging and reserve battery capacity at an optimum, efficient level was a necessity and after several years of development they made use of their award winning experience to develop a powerful solar charger with an internal battery which, in optimum light conditions, can be charged by the solar panels in just 8 to 12 hours!

The Solarmonkey Adventurer is a slimline, compact 2-panel solar charger with a 2500mAh internal lithium polymer battery. The clamshell design offers optimum weight-to-efficiency at just 265g and the 2 solar panels output a 3 watt maximum. The Adventurer features auto-load, self sensing switching technology, meaning when a device is connected, the adventurer will automatically start to charge your device and will optimise the charging parameters required.

The polysilicon solar panel offers photovoltaic efficiency up to 17% and features a USB 700mA @ 5V output, fully supporting Apple iPhones, iPads, iPods, mobile phones and other 5V gadgets such as portable games consoles, handheld GPS systems, and e-readers. The Adventurer can carry on charging itself and other devices efficiently in low light conditions thanks to the maximum power point tracker (MPPT) technology within it and, when the sun finally sets, the internal battery can also keep your devices powered through the night.

Even the bespoke travel case has been developed using toughened materials and includes integral fixings, straps and a karabiner so that the Adventurer is well protected and can be firmly secured to a backpack to make the most of the day’s sunlight to recharge

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the internal battery unit while you’re on the go. There are also pockets within the case to hold your cables and tips.

Another neat feature of the Adventurer is that it can simultaneously charge the unit and recharge a device via the USB port. The travel case allows easy access to the USB port which is perfect for saving time when you need to check if you have missed that important telephone call or check your coordinates on the GPS. The internal battery can also be pre-charged using the International Mains Charger which is available as an add on accessory.

Packed full with protection features including short-circuit protection, overload protection and low voltage protection and importantly, thermal insulation battery protection giving an operating temperature range of -10 to 90 degrees C, at £85.00 the Solarmonkey Adventurer is a superb addition to the Powertraveller range and our experience with it in the mountains was a very positive one. If you’re heading somewhere where a reliable power source is unlikely then you will certainly be thankful to have packed one of these excellent devices.

For more information on the Solarmonkey Adventurer and other technologies in the Powertraveller range please visit www.powertraveller.com

YOU CAN: CHARGE CAMERAS IPHONES & SMARTPHONES GPS TWO-WAY RADIOS AND MORE This is power without boundaries.

When your batteries fade or you find yourself way off-grid, the award winning powermonkey extreme gives your devices the power to keep on going. With Powertraveller, you can at www.powertraveller.com

iPad, iPhone and iPod are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries

GEAR ON TEST AGILITE TACTICAL HI-VEST

GEAR ON TEST

I

It’s funny the way that trends seem to come round and round in a frequent manner; when I first started dipping my toe into the tactical gear market on a regular basis everyone raved on and on about tactical vests and it was almost a fashion statement as to which brand you bought into.

Over time everyone moved onto plate carriers with acres of MOLLE attachment points, and more recently it’s all been about “light is right” with increasingly minimalist rigs.

I was actually pretty excited when one of local tactical gear shops started stocking gear from Agilite. It’s not a particularly well known brand in the UK, but their heritage is pretty solid; Agilite was founded by Israeli Special Forces and US Army veterans who know a great deal about what makes kit both in terms of make-up and performance.

All their gear is manufactured in the USA to the highest possible standards using the most advanced fabrics and construction techniques, and it is really never going to fall apart or let you down.

The Israelis have never really adopted the “MOLLE” system, even to this day relying on load carrying vests and standalone body armour systems, and the Tactical Hi-Vest is a superb example of this mindset.

The Tactical Hi-Vest swallows up to twelve M4 style magazines securely in numerous front facing pouches, and includes a tether for binoculars or NVG, an innovative pull strip for spare batteries, a knife sheath, a really neat compass pouch and compartments for storing all the other kit you might ever need!

Made from bomber tough 1000D Mil-Spec tactical nylon and featuring ITW Nexus hardware throughout, it weighs in at just 3lbs unloaded. It’s highly adjustable so you can get the fit absolutely perfect and keep everything exceptionally stable. If you need more space, perhaps for a longer operation or one that requires more kit, the Hi-Vest is 100% compatible with Agilites Modular Assault Pack (AMAP) which gives an additional 15L of load carrying space; this attaches direct to the vest itself, and can be fitted and removed in seconds.

The price of the Tactical Hi-Vest means that it’s not going to be for everyone in all fairness, bit if you’re a in a situation where you need to carry most of your fighting load with you, then this excellent bit of kit is thoroughly worthy of your consideration!

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For more information on the Hi-Vest, other innovative Agilite products and stockist details please visit www.agilitegear.com

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UNDER ARMOUR TACTICAL INFRARED MOCK

R

GEAR ON TEST

ecently I had the pleasure of spending some time at my local tactical gear store (don’t we all love doing this!) and was very pleased to see that they’ve started to stock on good range of performance base layer gear from Under Armour Tactical.

Since its inception in 1993 the Under Armour Tactical product line has been one of the real “movers and shakers” in relation to transforming what we near next to our skin, and have provided startling levels of performance. Starting with just one T shirt, Under Armour have also evolved to address the needs of the professional user beyond next to skin products as their range now includes Tactical Gloves, Tactical Footwear and Shell Garments. Under Armour’s goal is to make you cooler or warmer, lighter and drier, and more comfortable so you can attain optimal performance levels day after day.

When it comes to next to the skin usage though, Under Armour Tactical break things down into two main categories: • HeatGear is for when it’s hot and it’s designed to keep users cool, dry and light. Ideal use in Extremely Warm Weather • ColdGear is for when it’s cold and is designed to keep users warm, dry and light. Ideal use Temperatures under 13°C Now I’ve been using ColdGear during the winter months for some time and it really is super-light and ultra-warm.

Under Armour Tactical have recently upped the ante with the introduction of ColdGear Infrared; it’s an exclusive print technology that actually holds body heat. What’s the benefit of this I hear you ask? Well basically you get the same weight and feel as your favourite baselayer, but it warms up faster and stays that way longer.

The ColdGear Infrared Mock Neck is a lovely design too, perfectly suited for wear under a shell garment in those colder months of the year. It sits close to the skin for a streamlined fit without the squeeze of compression, and the higher neck keeps you snug without having to resort immediately to a neck gaiter. 4-Way Stretch allows greater mobility and maintains shape, whilst smooth, flatlock seam construction means that rub points are eliminated.

It is extremely comfortable next to the skin, and all the little details work perfectly; the mock neck is snug and warm without being too tight, and the cuffs are simple, with very low bulk.

ColdGear Infrared uses a soft, thermo-conductive inner coating to absorb and retain your own body heat and a dual-layer fabric gives you a soft, warm interior and a smooth, fast-drying exterior. The Moisture Transport System wicks sweat away from your body and the quick-dry

fabrication keeps you light and comfortable. Added to this Anti-Odour technology prevents the growth of microbes, which means the Mock stays pleasant to wear for longer too!

As with many baselayer products the Mock is put together using a Polyester/Elastane mix so please make sure you don’t expose it to an open flame! That said, this is the only minor niggle about what is a superb piece of performance clothing and I for one am really looking forward to seeing what Under Armour Tactical come up with next.

For more information and stockist details please visit www.top-of-the-range.co.uk

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MISSION PACK Capacity: Material: Colours: Dimensions:

38.5 litres (approx) 600D Cordura V-Cam, Coyote, Green, Black 52 x 24 x 32 cm

Internal hydration sleeve Ventex system back panel Adjustable hip pad/harness Padded shoulder straps and sternum strap with QR buckles MOLLE webbing attachments located on exterior pouches including D-Rings Multiple compression straps Hydration/coms outlet Side carry handle 2 x V-Lock 1 x D-Lock SRP £84.95

RANGER PACK Capacity: Material: Colours: Dimensions:

>GET THE

TACTICAL ADVANTAGE

36.5 litres (approx) 600D Cordura V-Cam, Coyote, Green, Black 46 x 33 x 26 cm

Multiple compression straps 4 point, Ventex system back panel Padded shoulder straps and sternum strap with QR buckles MOLLE webbing attachments located on exterior pouches including D-Rings Side carry handle Internal hydration sleeve Internal retaining straps/bungees Felt lined exterior utility pouches Hydration/coms outlet 2 x Velcro ID panels 2 x V-Lock 1 x D-Lock SRP £84.95

IN ALL AVAILABLE BLACK OLIVE GREEN & V-CAM, COYOTE,

LOGUE S / FREE CATA FOR STOCKIST 0327 74 4 23 TEL 01

o.uk www.viperkit.c

RECON EXTRA PACK Capacity: Material: Colours: Dimensions:

20 litres (approx) 600D Cordura V-Cam, Coyote, Green, Black 45 x 22 x 20 cm

Internal hydration sleeve Internal retaining straps/bungees Felt lined exterior utility pouches Hydration/coms outlet Multiple compression straps 4 point, Ventex system back panel Padded shoulder straps and sternum strap with QR buckles Grab carry handle MOLLE webbing attachments located on exterior pouches including D-Rings 2 x Velcro ID panels, 2 x V-Lock, 1 x D-Lock

SRP £54.95

TACTICAL

MIDI PACK Capacity: Material: Colours: Dimensions:

22 litres (approx) 600D Cordura V-Cam, Coyote, Green, Black 43 x 23 x 26 cm

Internal hydration sleeve Padded shoulder straps and sternum strap with QR buckles 2 x side stow pouches Internal Nylon utility sleeves Mesh back Compression straps MOLLE webbing attachments located on exterior pouches including D-Rings 2 x V-Lock 1 x D-Lock

SRP £45.00

MINI MODULAR PACK Capacity: Material: Colours: Dimensions:

19.5 litres (approx) 600D Cordura V-Cam, Coyote, Green, Black 42 x 23 x 34 cm

Mesh helmet hammock located on front with compression straps for adjustment Internal hydration sleeve 2 x External side pouches Hydration/coms outlet Padded shoulder straps and sternum strap with QR buckles Multiple compression straps MOLLE webbing attachments located on exterior pouches including D-Rings Compatible with Plate Carrier 1 x Large Velcro ID panel 2 x V-Lock, 1 x D-Lock

SRP £45.00

ONE DAY MODULAR PACK Capacity: Material: Colours: Dimensions:

13.5 litres (approx) 600D Cordura V-Cam, Coyote, Green, Black 19 x 20 x 43 cm

Hydration/coms outlet Multiple compression straps Internal mesh pocket to accommodate hydration bladder Shoulder straps with QR buckles.

MOLLE webbing attachments located on exterior pouches including D-Rings Compatible with Plate Carrier 1 x Large Velcro ID panels.

2 x V-Lock 1 x D-Lock

SRP £26.50

SHOULDER PACK Capacity: Material: Colours: Dimensions:

10 litres (approx) 600D Cordura V-Cam, Coyote, Green, Black 31 x 20 x 16 cm

Retaining straps/bungees Exterior utility pouches.

Mesh back panel.

Shoulder straps with QR buckle.

MOLLE webbing attachments located on exterior pouches including D-Rings.

2 x Velcro ID panels.

2 x V-Lock 1 x D-Lock

SRP £29.95

SPECIAL OPS POUCH Capacity: Material: Colours: Dimensions:

5.5 litres (approx) 600D Cordura V-Cam, Coyote, Green, Black 20 x 15 x 18 cm

MOLLE webbing attachments located on exterior front External mag/phone pouch Sectional internals Fold out compartment Removable shoulder carry strap Compatible with Plate Carrier 1 x Large Velcro ID panel 2 x V-Lock, 1 x D-Lock

SRP £24.95

LOWA MOUNTAIN BOOTS

GEAR ON TEST

L

OWA have been making boots since 1923 and are a bit of a legend in the footwear world. Over the years they have established themselves as a market leader not just for outdoor boots but especially for their military models. They produce 95% of their footwear in the centre of Europe, following the strictest environmental laws in the world; in fact they are the only outdoor boot manufacturer to be granted ISO 9001 status for highest quality construction and process standards. They purchase materials from European suppliers required to follow the same strict rules when producing their goods and the end product is of the very highest quality possible.

If you were to visit any barracks in the UK I guarantee that you would find a high number of guys wearing LOWAs and one of the most sought after models has been the Mountain Boot. Relatively recently we’ve seen the MOD start to issue brown boots to be more in line with MTP clothing and uniforms, and LOWA have picked up on this by releasing this classic model in “MOD Brown”. Not only does this work well for the soldier but it also means that they are a great general use boot too.

I’ve been lucky enough to have a pair of the new brown Gore Tex lined versions to test over the winter months, and as where I live has seen one of the wettest winters for a long time I’m jolly glad that I have. The Mountain Boots are designed for use in “rough terrain”, and mud over wet chalk is one of the most challenging ground conditions to deal with in my opinion. I’ve put a good number of miles under the soles of the LOWAs and at no time did they feel anything other than sturdy and solid; the Vibram “Tsavo” sole unit has provided stability even on the worst days with a nice high cuff giving excellent support around the ankle.

The boots are made 2.4/2.4mm full grain leather which has moulded well to my foot and the Gore Tex Duracom inner has meant that my feet have stayed 100% dry even in long grass and wet undergrowth. Open hook lacing means that you can set up the fit of the boot just as you like it, and once you’ve found your “fit” then everything stays locked down and in place; the foot is anchored solidly in place with no movement or “sloppiness” that will cause blisters. The boots are available in UK 3 – 15 including half sizes.

Overall this is one heck of a boot and I can see now why it has become the choice of the professional soldier. Whilst our lives may not depend on it, this is a fabulously well made boot, put together with the very best of everything.

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As part of LOWAs Task Force collection this is a superb all rounder that will take all the punishment you can throw at it and come back for more of the same!

For further information and stockist details please visit www.tfd.uk.com

HAZARD 4 RIFLE CASE

H

GEAR ON TEST

azard4 are a brand we’ve come to trust for gear since we had the pleasure of meeting them in person at SHOT a few years back. They’ve become well known and respected for their excellent load carrying gear and clothing, and look away in many cases from the accepted norm to create unique designs of their own.

It’s almost as if someone said “this is the way to make a pouch” and Hazard 4 asked “why?”

They go their own way and are all the better for that!

Right now there seems to be a “battle of the gun bags” with many niche and not so niche manufacturers coming up with their take, and we’ll be looking at a selection of these in due course.

The Smuggler is one of Hazard4’s solutions in this area and is essentially a large Evac sling pack specifically designed to accommodate carbines up to AK47 length, and shooters can transport their rifles with magazine in and optics mounted. If you need more space the Smuggler will give you just that!

The Smuggler features one large main compartment and three external zipped pockets for additional accessories.

The heavily padded main compartment comes with twoway lockable 10RC YKK zipper, compression straps with buckles, soft plush inner lining, two long 2” wide inner Nylon straps with rifle tie-downs, removable padded sleeve divider with Velcro, tough movable polymer Velcro patch for muzzle protection, and bottom vent grille for easy ventilation and drying.

A 3D thermoformed moulded back panel allows for easy air-circulation and comfortable wear even when bag is fully loaded. Behind the padded back is a separate laptop/ hydration bladder compartment, lined with extra soft material, with nylon loops for securing hydration bladders and two separate entrances equipped with two-way YKK zippers.

A comfortable wide and padded shoulder strap comes with breathable air mesh, large lockable quick release buckle and multiple MOLLE straps. The shoulder strap can be placed at either the right or left lower corner, so the case aligns ergonomically in the correct body hugging direction.

The Smuggler also comes with three front YKK zipped utility pockets. The top pocket comes with external 3D rubber Hazard 4 logo, while the middle lockable pocket comes with external Velcro for patches and internal Velcro for holsters. The largest bottom pocket is actually an admin compartment which features large zipped inner pocket with multiple various sizes inner sleeve pockets, and external MOLLE attachment straps.

This exceptional carrier also has three carry handles (the

main one is heavily padded for added comfort), tough polymer material on high use areas, multiple MOLLE on each side, and five steel D-rings for attachment of optional straps.

The Smuggler is tough and solid as it’s made mainly with Invista 1000D Cordura, so it’s going to stand up to multiple range days over a long, long service life; whilst it’s not the cheapest carrier out there it is impeccably put together, and it’s most definitely a case of you get what you pay for. Weighing in at 2660g, it measures 37”x16.5”x3.9” (94x42x10cm) externally.

Did I mention extra space?

In the UK Hazard4 equipment and clothing is distributed by www.thomasjacks.co.uk, but we’d like to thank www. tactical-kit.co.uk for providing the test sample.

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KNIVES and TOOLS

Gerber Bear Grylls Fixed Blade Paracord Knife

T

he winter months have meant getting outside to prepare and cut back the range training area in readiness for some skills and accuracy sessions. I’m a big fan of the Gerber range of knives ad tools, and thus far both the Parang and Ultimate Fixed Blade Knife from Gerbers Bear Grylls range have proved their worth; the Parang in particular has been the perfect tool for cutting back the old vegetation that yearly threatens our regular target placement sites!

However, sometimes you just don’t need a DGK (darned great knife!), and in some situations having something that is small, lightweight and nimble is just the very thing. The Bear Grylls Fixed Blade Paracord Knife features a 3.25 inch full tang, stainless steel blade, with an overall length of just 7.75 inches. The paracord wrapping the handle is removable and customisable, with 60 inches of paracord in total. This is a neat little package, with an added extra in terms of the paracord.

The knife also comes with a nifty little sheath which feels almost like custom Kydex. The belt loop on the sheath is removable, and can also be angled to give a left of right hand “draw”. With a little bit of thought I can even see that this could easily be attached to numerous items of equipment or clothing, and the small size makes it accessible without taking up too much space.

When I was with the guys from Gerber recently I actually asked them if they intended to release something similar in the their tactical range without the bright orange colours; whilst this is not planned at present we did joke about how the “survival” version could be customised with green or tan paracord and a lick of Krylon to make it an ideal tactical tool, and you know what? It’s pretty easily achieved!

The tan paracord was easily obtainable online for a couple of pounds, and it was a matter of 15 minutes work to replace the original orange. I first sprayed the whole sheath tans and then finished it off by using an old scrim net to give the “lizard skin” finishing touches. The knife and sheath work perfectly with my range belt set up, giving another useful tool which sits easily at hand. This is a neat, affordable knife that I believe will give great service for a considerable time to come.

Cost: £29.99 Colours: Black and Orange!

Thanks to www.tactical-kit.co.uk for providing our test sample

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GEAR ON TEST: AR500 ARMOUR

AR500 ARMOR REVIEW

Words: Trampas Swanson Pictures: Candace Swanson

THIS MONTH WE’RE VERY PLEASED TO WELCOME FORMER LEO AND SWAT SNIPER TRAMPAS SWANSON TO THE PMCI TEAM. TRAMPAS IS BASED IN THE USA AND REVIEWS AND WRITES FOR A NUMBER OF FIREARM AND TACTICAL PUBLICATIONS BOTH IN PRINT AND ONLINE SO WE’RE MORE THAN HAPPY TO HAVE HIS INSIGHTS, STARTING WITH A LOOK AT A PAIRING OF TACTICAL TAILOR AND AR500 ARMOR.

These days there is a lot more civilian interest in body armor and with good reason. With global terrorism, riots and civil unrest, people are taking it upon themselves to seek out better education and equipment. Military contracted armored vest companies are seeing an upswing in sales of their products going to well-trained law enforcement and civilian shooters wishing to “hope for the best yet prepare for the worst”. For this segment, I take a look at an excellent combination of a load bearing plate carrier by Tactical Tailor and AR500 Armor’s super tough steel plate inserts.

Traditionally when people think of body armor plates, they think porcelain. For years this has been the common material for stopping initial bullet impact, but greatly compromises its strength afterwards. The traditional plates often save the wearer from harm and allow them to find safety from incoming fire, but leave them without protection for the rest of a mission if an immediate replacement could not be found. On top of this problem, the weight of the plates carried in cheaply made carriers would cause tears and failure in the carry vest. Poorly constructed shoulder straps dig into muscle and tissue as sand, dirt and debris only heighten those issues.

For the past six months, I have been exclusively wearing new plates by AR500 Armor consisting of AR500 grade steel. That’s right, I said steel. The same steel as the super

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hard plates you use for targets is now used for personal protection. This steel isn’t your run of the mill metal used in construction, but steel designed for use specifically for firearms applications. With a Brinell Hardness Scale rating of 504 and 519, the company touts this as the hardest steel in the industry! While admittedly, this material is a bit heavier than porcelain, it’s a lot more durable too. In the past, if I had an armored vest sitting on the back of a vehicle and it fell off, my first thought would be “Oh no, my $400 plates are cracked and ruined!” With using AR500 plates, I now only worry about whatever the vest lands on! Retailing at around $85 per plate, this option for saving your life, starts with saving your budget.

in military and paramilitary capacity with favorable results. Everyone agrees this carrier series from Tactical Tailor offers everything you need to be quick and fluid in action without the bulky unnecessary straps and panels of most carriers.

Okay, so the kit fits well and looks good, but what about the plates themselves? Like you, the reader, my first concern wasn’t what will penetrate the steel, but more rather the flak caused by a round NOT penetrating.

Where does that “splash” of jacketed lead going? My arm? Leg? Throat? As it turns out, the folks at AR500 Armor took care of that concern by means of applying PAXCON Line-X protective coating on the plates. This finish increases spall and fragmentation mitigation greatly. In laymen’s terms, it soaks up a lot of the fragments caused when an incoming round crushes itself against the plate and prevents it from becoming a multiple hazard to the wearer. In testing, I have seen a standard plate turn away even 3 consecutive shots from a .50 BMG. While, I would not volunteer to test the shock value given to that sort of impact on a wearer, it is good to know the plates will deflect the most popular small arms on the market.

GEAR ON TEST: AR500 ARMOUR

Weighing in at around 8lbs each, my sample 11 x 14 inch plates are the largest offered by AR500 Armor and cover my wide vital area completely. One concern I have always had with armor involved wearing it while running a long gun. Most armor obstructs my shoulder “pocket” formed when shooting a rifle or shotgun. This doesn’t always make for a good shoulder purchase for the firearm and affects end result performance. AR500 Armor’s design incorporates “clipped” corners to the top of the plates in order to allow the full shoulder “pocket” to clear the plate and allow more arm mobility.

The wide array of Molle loops enable me to carry three 30 round magazine pouches and my handgun in an adjustable cross draw holster from Blackhawk’s Serpa line. While the complete kit is a good heft to put on, the thick padded straps of the Tactical Tailor Fight Light vest distributed the weight evenly and allowed for full movement and comfort in carrying a full load out. One of the features about the sturdy constructed Fight Light vest is the raised padding inside the Molle panels to form air channels between the plates and the body to allow for the end user to stay cool even when the environment temperatures get hot. Testing this armor in Florida, HOT is only the forecast for roughly 300 days out of the year, so this feature was very welcome.

Many of my fellow shooters I have spoken with coming back from Iraq have also used the Fight Light carrier

Most armor and armor carriers on the market will do what is advertised and go through great lengths to lab

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GEAR ON TEST: AR500 ARMOUR

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test every angle. The end user doesn’t have a million dollar lab to dispute or prove facts and figures, only one life to risk and that’s priceless. If the kit is too bulky, too heavy, shatters in a firefight leaving the warrior exposed and weighted down; it does the user absolutely NO good! Other than an approximate 2lb difference per plate from ballistic porcelain, the AR500 steel plates are a considerable advantage over soft armor and other lesser material hard armor plates. There is no shelf life or expiration dates, no fear of shattering them before they can be used and the plates are 100% sealed to protect against harsh liquids, chemicals or the elements. I have only cleaned the test plates once using dish washing detergent and water while the carrier was in the laundry. While I didn’t necessarily have to clean them when I did, they were worn on a lot of very

hot days and my wife prefers my gear not to cause the house to smell!

To wrap things up, I leave you with this. The times are a changing and the war on global terror rages on as we speak. As governments weaken and borders fall, it’s everyone’s responsibility to protect themselves and not just rely on police and officials to stop real threats to our way of life. The combination of the Fight Light carrier

by Tactical Tailor and the plates by AR500 Armor is one kit I personally will be reaching for if the grid ever fails and revolt hits the streets.

Until then, stay safe, train hard and check out more about Tactical Tailor and AR500 Armor at their websites, www.tacticaltailor.com and www.ar500armor.com

Walther PPQ Review Words: Trampas Swanson. Pictures: Candace Swanson

At the 2013 SHOT Show in Las Vegas, Nevada, Walther reintroduced the PPQ in the form of the 5 inch barreled M2 version offered in 9mm and .40 caliber. Right out of the box, this pistol appeared to have better, more ergonomic lines and controls. I contacted Walther and had a sample in 9mm shipped out for an intense 3 month test. A week later, I got a call from my local FFL, Second Amendment Outfitters to come by and pick up the pistol.

When I arrived, the shop manager and my friend, David had just logged the pistol into the shop books. David was familiar with the last PPQ and said, “I think you are going to really like this version”. Upon first inspection of the pistol, it had a sleek, eye catching appearance. It immediately felt good in my hand and very well balanced. As I looked down the slide, I noticed vent-like holes drilled through on each side. According to the designers at Walther, this was done to help keep the weight of the pistol off of the front end and closer to the grip for better balance and control. To my delight, the trigger guard mounted paddle magazine release was gone! In its place was a more traditional large button style release on the left side of the grip.

FIREARMS WALTHER PPQ

S

everal years ago during my badge and gun days as a Deputy Sheriff, I was instructed during a high profile investigation to “make sure to do things by the book, but keep an open mind”. I spent the rest of that night with a massive headache trying to figure out what that statement was supposed to mean. These days as an older, wiser, gun writer, it’s become my personal mantra on testing firearms. I say this to begin my look at Walther’s PPQ M2.

In 2011, Walther introduced its first venture in the Police Pistol Quick (PPQ) line with a 4 inch barreled polymer framed, striker fired pistol. I was able to obtain a sample of the PPQ early on after its release and ended up slightly disappointed. I religiously carry a firearm on a daily basis as I did in my law enforcement career. Most days, that job goes to a Glock pistol. My time with the PPQ ended up feeling like a poor copy of my daily carry pistol. The frame was comfortable but I never felt like I could get a true master grip on the pistol. This ended up factoring into how I performed with the pistol on the range. The worst feature of this model was the trigger guard mounted “paddle-style” magazine release. Having smaller hands, I would have to roll the pistol uncomfortably inward in order to reach the release with my thumb. I made my thoughts known to Walther and chose to give the pistol more time on the market to see if others came to any of the same conclusions. A little over 2 years later, it would seem someone at Walther felt the same way as I about the PPQ and decided to do something about it!

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FIREARMS WALTHER PPQ

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This release is switchable for left handed shooters comfort as well. In the box with the pistol were 2 metal magazines by MecGar with a 15 round capacity. All of my previous experiences with the company, Mec-Gar and their magazines had been very positive with their construction of smooth feeding, drop free mags. These magazines would prove soon to be the same as their reputation states.

The grips featured three interchangeable options for the thickness of the back strap by just a simple push of a roll pin to unsecure it from the gun and secure it back. The smallest of the 3 options seemed to fit the best in my hand. When I established a master grip, the angle was comfortable and helped hold the gun level in a very natural position.

A few days later, I was able to hit the range with the new PPQ M2. Putting the thoughts of its predecessor out of my mind, I held it to the same standards as any review sample, by the book, with an open mind. I started running the pistol at 10 yards with 50 rounds of full metal jacketed 115 grain ammo from Federal. The pistols 3 dot sights were easy to acquire quickly and smoothly.

With a careful eye, the rear sight was wide enough to allow the target can be seen on either side of the front sight while lined up. Initial shots were hardly even considered a challenge with a very tight sub-inch wide 10 shot groups on 5 different targets.

The trigger broke crisply at just at 5lbs consistently with a very short reset (1/10th inch travel). Recoil was very comfortable and seemed to be felt more in the middle of my strong hand instead

34

of on top. Compared to my daily carry Glock, time between shots seemed to be faster and recoil was a bit less sharp. An additional 100 rounds were divided by targets at 15 and 23 yards with very respectable groups as well. I was quite surprised how comfortable this pistol was to shoot quickly and accurately.

Once I became familiar with shooting the PPQ M2, I set up a series of targets and decided to shoot the pistol head to head with two other pistols with the same 115 grain Federal FMJ ammo to see how they performed. Since I had unjustly compared the first PPQ sample to my carry Glock, I challenged the new version of the PPQ with the same standards by selecting the Glock model 17 and its competition counterpart, the model 34. With the PPQ’s 5 inch barrel seemed to be the perfect fit between the G17’s 4.48 inch barrel and the G34’s 5.31 inch barrel.

In the first 10 round test with the PPQ at 15 yards, the 1.2 inch group felt good. I was able to get a quick but steady rhythm in my shots. Switching to the Glock 17, the grip suddenly felt a little bulky. Considering I carry a Glock every day, this was a bit disheartening. I took a few minutes to dry fire the Glock and get comfortable with its difference in frame angle and trigger break. Once this was done, I sent the next 10 rounds of the test sequence down range. As always, the Glock did not disappoint with a good grouping. Measuring at 1.4 inches, it seemed the PPQ edged it out. Always keeping an open mind, I accepted this may not be a fluke and continued on to the Glock model 34.

With this model basically being a long slide version of the G17,

In breaking down the PPQ back at the shop, I was surprised how similar the slide seemed to the Glock with its striker fired system.

Complete with the Glock-like Tenifer finish, the PPQ slide and barrel offer a tough-as-nails matte black look to match the flat

black polymer modeled frame. Shooting in the extreme heat and humidity of the Florida summer, Tenifer offers a great protection from rust and corrosion.

The similarities between the PPQ and Glock were enough so that I was very comfortable in giving the pistol a full tear down and cleaning. A huge plus in the field stripping of the PPQ is in the fact the trigger does not need to be in the fired position to be removed from the frame. A simple downward action of the take down latch and a forward tug of the slide allow it to clear the frame cleanly. This makes for a much safer pistol to break down than firearms such as the Glock.

Sadly one area the PPQ cannot be directly compared to the Glock series is the price at MSRP $699 US. At nearly $100 US over the basic Glock, one should keep it mind the features the PPQ offers.

The PPQ’s easy to reach slide release, magazine release and crisp breaking trigger are very comparable with high end aftermarket products for the Glock. One would have to spend well over $100 adding all those options to the standard Glock.

Another price point issue with the PPQ comes with the magazines. While the Mec-Gar magazines performed great, finding extras is a bit of a challenge. It seems these days every local gun shop and big box sporting goods store carries 1911, AR-15 and Glock magazines, but Walther are a bit harder to locate. When they are to be found, the average retail on a 15 round magazine is around $40 US. This is roughly $10 higher on average than its Glock equivalent.

Since the mid-90s, it seems the market has been flooded with polymer framed pistols trying to capture part of the market only to lose out to Glock’s popularity and durability. Having shot a wide number of these pistols over the years, the PPQ is the first pistol I have seen that has taken the Glock and actually improved on the design without sacrificing the features we all love about it. It seems the PPQ has already become viewed as the next step in the evolution of polymer pistols with Heckler & Koch’s release a similar pistol in the form of their new VP-9 series.

Capitalising on the PPQ M2’s early success over its first year, Walther introduced a .22 caliber version at the 2014 SHOT Show.

This falls quickly in line with a growing concept in using .22 caliber models of popular combat handguns as economical training options to develop better tactics and get more out of their budget.

I believe Walther’s insight of firearms market and willingness to give shooters what they want in a firearm will continue to ensure their success in the coming future. The PPQ M2 is great option for those who are looking to break from what’s popular and go with what’s proven to be a better performer.

To check out more about the PPQ M2 and Walther’s other great firearms, please visit www.waltherarms. com.

FIREARMS WALTHER PPQ

the frame size was once again familiar in my hands. I was able to get back into a steady rhythm shooting and produced a decent group right at 1.2 inch.

During round two of testing, I shot a fresh set of targets starting with the Glock 17 first, and then moving to the Glock 34 before switching to the PPQ. Test resulted seemed to be better all-around with the G17 measuring 1.3 inches, the G34 improving to 1.1 and the PPQ just under an inch. Shooting an unsupported two hand grip, these results were a direct result of being comfortable and relaxed with the tools at hand.

With the PPQ having a very good showing against my personally owned pistols, I wanted to get the opinion of another range instructor with through knowledge of the test pistols. My search led me to one of the best in-house resources I could ever ask for, my wife, Candace. Being not only the head instructor for the Jacksonville chapter of The Well Armed Woman shooting organization, she heads up the entire state of Florida’s list of chapters. Candace has been shooting since she was a little girl in her home town of Pittsburgh, PA. Now as a leader in empowering women to get into shooting sports and master firearms, she has an extensive range of knowledge of every gun that comes through our shop and a very proficient shooter as well.

The second range day fell a few days later after one of her TWAW meetings. In the course of her own tests with a Glock 42 in .380, we were reviewing as well and a long slide Glock .45 cal in the model 41, Candace tested the PPQ, the G17 and G34. After an hour of personal testing, Candace emerged from the range bay with her last test target representing shots taken after she was fully comfortable with the new PPQ. According to Candace, the Glocks shot like Glocks always do, reliably and steady. What Candace was most excited about was her results with the PPQ. The new pistol was very comfortable in her hands and gave her a sense of total control when shooting. The controls such as the mag release and slide lock were easily reached without unsafely having to roll the pistol inward to reach. This input weighs greatly in our suggestions to students when making suggestions on firearms they should considered as a good choice to use as an entry level pistol.

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FIREARMS

MAINTENANCE

CLENZOIL CLEANING PRODUCTS Now my local firearms dealer has been bending my ear the last few months about the Clenzoil maintenance products he’s been stocking so I thought I’d better get some in and have a go with it; I’ve specifically put one rifle aside to work on with their products and thus far it is working really very well indeed.

Clenzoil solution is a high quality one-step rust preventative and lubricant for “Lock, Stock and Barrel™” as they say. It is effective in removing oils, dirt, copper, lead and other contaminants.

The product that’s really taken my fancy though is the Clenzoil foaming aerosol; this creates a lather to break-up carbon or caked-on fired cartridge residue inside your rifle. You can easily foam the inside of your barrel and/or chamber without disassembly and you can easily spray it on as a “top dressing” to protect your gun from fouling in the field or preserve it for long-term storage.

Both are absolutely cracking products, well priced and efficient, and I’d thoroughly recommend that you give them a go!

Cost: Both retail at £11.95 Please visit www.clenzoil.co.uk for further information and full stockist details

CLENZOIL

It’s versatile and unique, using no heptanes, butane or propane or any flammable propellant.

It uses medical-grade nitrogen, which is clean, dry, non-flammable and highly efficient. Just spray it into every nook and cranny and within two minutes the foam breaks back down into Clenzoil and the liquid form rinses out contaminants the foam has dislodged.

MAINTENANCE:

It provides a thin, non-greasy coating that prevents rust and lubricates all moving parts of not only your rifle but also your other sporting equipment. Clenzoil also nourishes preserves and protects wood & leather, and it will not harm polymer or other synthetic surfaces. It’s really great for wood stocks & grips, leather holsters, scabbards and slings.

pmcimagazine.com

BOOK REVIEW Winning Wars amongst the People

pmcimagazine.com

WINNING WARS AMONGST THE PEOPLE Fourth Generation Warfare (4GW) is a complex topic that anyone involved in any type of security work needs to understand fully.

This book is a vital tool in that process.

Since the end of World War II a paradigm shift has occurred in armed conflict. Asymmetric or fourth generation warfare, the challenge of non-state belligerents to the authority and power of the state, has become the dominant form of conflict while interstate conventional war has become an increasingly irrelevant instrument of statecraft.

In this type of war the enemy is really more of an opponent, a fellow citizen with a different vision for the future of the country waging war amongst the people, manoeuvring on the borderlines between parliamentary politics, street politics, criminal activity, and combat operations. Modern security forces must find the enemy amongst the populace and defeat him without harming or endangering the civilians around him.

Winning Wars amongst the People: Case Studies in Asymmetric Conflict analyses the special circumstances of asymmetric conflict in the domestic context and seeks to identify those principles that allow a democratic state’s security forces to successfully meet the challenge and at the same time obey their homeland’s laws; how best to protect its culture, observe its values, and retain its liberties, traditions, and way of life.

Using detailed case studies (namely Rhodesia 1962-1980, Punjab 1980- 1994, Kosovo 1996-1999 and most topically France 2005) author Peter A Kiss explains the fundamental differences between the paradigm of conventional war and asymmetric warfare as the latter’s political, social, and economic roots and main characteristics.

Most importantly, Winning Wars amongst the People identifies the measures a government must take in order to prepare its security forces and other institutions of state for an asymmetric conflict. Whilst not an easy book to get through, the effort in doing so will provide the reader with a deeper understanding of 4GW and how lessons learned can be applied in the future.

Author: Peter A Kiss Publisher: Potomac Books, Inc. ISBN: 978-1612347004 Price: £20.99

Peter A Kiss served in the US Army for twenty years where he learned the tactics of asymmetric warfare first hand, first as an airborne warrior and then as an intelligence specialist. Kiss is currently an instructor at the National University of Public Service in Hungary, and an independent security consultant. He is the author of numerous articles and essays.

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Advanced Security Protection

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AKE Group

Blue Hackle

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Ambrey Risk

Blue Waters Partners Global

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Antipirates.Org

BP Global

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APPDS

Britam Defence

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Aquatic Marine Ltd

British Maritime Solutions

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Protect Asia Group

BW Offshore

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Secopex

Calibre International Security

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Aspida

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Associated Risk Maritime Risk Management

Chiron Resources

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Bancroft Maritime Security Solutions

Clearwater Special Projects

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Bechtel Corporation

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Black Pearl

Decatur Maritime Security

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Drum Cussac

Hudson Trident

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Dryad Maritime

ICTS

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Edinburgh International

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Elite Maritime Protection Services

International Executive Recruiting

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EOS Risk Management

International Maritime Security

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Erus Maritime

International Maritime Security

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Espada

International Security Network

http://www.espadaservices.com

http://www.isn.eu.com

Ex Military Recruitment

ISC Gulf

https://www.exmil.co.uk

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Exploration Logistics Group

ISSG Sea Marshalls

http://www.frontiermedex.com/

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G4S Maritime

Janusian Risk Advisory Group

http://www.g4s.uk.com

http://www.riskadvisory.net/

Genesis Security Group http://genesissecurity.com/

Global Executive Outreach http://www.geo-ops.com/

Global Risk Security http://www.globalrisksecurity.co.uk/

Global Solace http://www.solaceglobal.com/

Global Strategies Group http://www.globalgroup.com/

Grail Security http://www.grail.co.za

Halliburton http://www.halliburton.com/en-USage

Halogen Security http://www.halogensecurity.com/

Hart Maritime http://www.hartsecurity.com

Hill & Associates http://www.hillassoc.com

HP TerraMarine International http://www.hpterramarine.com/

Kroll

MUSC

http://www.kroll.com/

http://www.sps-global.com

Longmoor Group

Naval Guards

http://www.longmoor-security.com

http://www.navalguards.com

Lotus Maritime Security

Neptune Security

http://www.lotusmaritime.com

http://www.neptunemaritimesecurity.com/

Lotus Projects

NNK Group

http://www.lpyemen.com

https://www.nnkcorporation.com

Maersk

NYA International

http://www.maersk.com/pages/default.aspx

http://www.nyainternational.com

Magregor Protection Services

Ocean Marshalls

http://macgregorprotectionservices.com

http://www.oceanmarshalls.com

March Security

Ocean Protective Services

www.marchsecurity.com

http://oceanprotectionservices.com

Maritime Risk International

Oceaneering International

http://www.maritimeriskinternational.com/

http://www.oceaneering.com/

Marsec

Olchon

http://www.marsec.eu.com

http://www.olchon.co.uk/

MAST

Olive Group

http://www.mast-commercial.com

http://www.olivegroup.com/

McRoberts Maritime Security

Orchid Security

http://www.mcrobertsmaritime.com/

http://www.orchid-office.com/

Merchant Maritime Warfare Centre

Oxberry Risk Strategies

http://www.mmwc.org/

http://www.oxberryrisk.com/maritime_services

Minimal Risk

Pilgrim Group

http://www.minimalrisk.co.uk/

http://www.pilgrimsgroup.com

MSS

Pilgrim Security

http://www.mss-uk.com

http://www.pilgrimsgroup.com

MTResolution

Pistris

http://www.mtresolution.com/

http://www.pistris.com/Index.html

42

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For full details please visit our website at www.hasptraining.co.uk or call Rupert on 07884 001600 or 01202 729068

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Protect Asia Group

Securescot

http://www.protectasia.com/

http://www.securescot.com

PVI Ltd

Securewest International

http://www.pviltd.com/

http://www.securewest.com/

Raven Special Projects Ltd

Security Networking Events

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http://snespecialprojects.com/

Red Cell Security

Security Networking Events

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http://snespecialprojects.com/

Redfour-MSS

Securoquest

http://www.redfour-group.com

http://www.securoquest.co.za

Saladin Security Group

Shield Risk Consulting

http://www.saladin-security.com/

http://www.shield.eu/services/maritime-security/

Saladin Security

Shipguard

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http://www.mss-uk.com

Salama Fikira

SMS

http://www.salamafikira.com/

www.specialistmarineservices.com

SMS

SPS

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Tor International

Tactical Intel

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Trojan Securities International

Thalassic

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Orchid Security

Tor International

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Blackstone Consultancy

Torcuss

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Pilgrim Group

Triskle TSL

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Maritime Risk International

Triton Security

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International Maritime Security

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Raven Special Projects Ltd

Veritas International

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Salamanca Risk Management http://www.salamancarm.com

Sea Marshalls Ltd UK http://www.seamarshals.com

SEAL http://www.sealsecurity.com/

44

News TACTICAL CLOTHING PMCI has recently received the following communication and would like to bring it to the attention of all former Project Matrix colleagues.

TROUSERS

Dear Former Project MATRIX Colleagues,

SHIRTS

As you may already be aware, this year is the 10th anniversary of the commencement of Project MATRIX in Iraq. To mark the occasion, a Project MATRIX Service of Remembrance and ‘Reunion’ will be held here in Central London. As a former member of the project, who contributed to its success, you are cordially invited to attend. The date for the event has now been confirmed as Saturday 29 March 2014. We sincerely hope that as many people as possible will be able to be there, of all nationalities, so that the 32 former colleagues that sadly lost their lives during the 7-year duration of the project can be remembered in the best possible way. However we also realise

SOCKS

JACKETS

that there a large number of you may sadly be unable to attend due to other commitments, including continuing work overseas.

The Service of Remembrance will take place in The Guards Chapel, and will conducted by Reverend David Cooper (former MATRIX G7 Civil Affairs Director 2006-2007, and 2 PARA Padre during the Falklands War). This will then be followed by ‘refreshments’ in the Garrison

FROM

Sergeants Mess in Wellington Barracks for the remainder of the afternoon/early evening. Outline timings for the day are as follows:

ACCESSORIES

£10.80 •

10:50hrs

All are asked to be seated inside the Guards Chapel

•

11:00hrs

Service of Remembrance begins

•

11:45-12:00hrs

Service of Remembrance finishes and guests make their way to the Garrison Sergeants Mess

•

12:00hrs

•

14:00hrs

•

16:30-17:00hrs

TACTICAL BOOTS

5.11 BAGS

Bar opens in Garrison Sergeants Mess

& BACKPACKS

F R O Hot M Bbuffet R A Nlunch D S SisUserved CH AS:

• 17:00hrs onwards

Bar closes in Garrison Sergeants Mess and all are requested to vacate Wellington Barracks Central London is yours to enjoy as you wish!

FROM

£32

FROM

.99Guards Chapel can be found by clicking on the following link: Details, and a map, of how to find the

£31.50

http://www.guardschapelfriends.co.uk/how-to-find-us.html

TORCHES & ELECTRONICS

In order to gain attendance to the barracks we are required to provide a full attendance list to the resident battalion, with only names

TACTICAL OPERATIONS BACKPACK

listed and submitted in advance being allowed entry on the day. If you are planning to attend please email matrixreunion@aegisworld. com as soon as possible so that we can do a quick confirmatory check and add your details to the attendance list. Dress code is collar

and men orStrainers), and suitable attire for ladies.

FRO M tie B Rfor AN D S (no S Ujeans CH A :

Only former MATRIX personnel themselves, along with the families of those that lost their lives, are invited to attend at this stage. This is not a permanent snub to those who have indicated a wish to bring their wife/husband/partner, merely a case of potentially limited space inside the Garrison Sergeants Mess and needing to ensure F R O Mthat there is firstly enough space for all former MATRIX staff to attend JUST that wish to. I will update you all ASAP if the invite is opened to current wives/husbands/partners.

Please feel free to send any questions you may have.

£6.85

£29.99

Hope to see you on the 29th March 2014!

Regards, P L UBest S LO TS MORE TACTICAL

KIT AND Kev MarsdenEQUIPMENT 28

ORDER ONLINE AT PATROLSTORE.COM

3

32

30