UN12 - 001 Magazine

Premiere Issue U.S. $12.95

Featured Material Night Vision Helmet Set Ups Everyday Carry Tools & Devices • DIY: Barrel Cut, Thread & Crown • Firearms Customizers • •

UN0012 / CARTRIDGES FOR WEAPONS, INERT PROJECTILE or CARTRIDGES, SMALL ARMS —

Included

UN12 x TNVC LOMF Patch

Battle Arms

Woody Two Modern Retro SBRs Based on a one-off custom rifle Chambered in .300BLK

Feature Firearm

ISSUE

UN12mag.com

001

tailhook pistol brace

30 SIG Sauer MCX Rattler Firearm Feature

Tailhook Mod I

GEAR HEAD WORKS IS PROUD TO OFFER OUR NEW TAILHOOK PISTOL BRACES. UN12 Issue 001

04

UN12 / Issue 001

Table of Contents 16

74

116

Avoiding Obsolescence Accessory Mounting Adapters & Alternatives

A Closer Look At The Work Of Danger Close Armament Customization Feature

Tactical Walls MOD Wall System Product Review

26

80

124

Fortis Mfg. LA Stock Product Review

Pistol Caliber AR Parts Guide Buyer’s Guide

Nevada Cerakote Customization Feature

46

90

128

Night Vision Helmets Feature & Buyer’s Guide

Nighthawk Custom Agent1 Firearm Feature

Kiloniner Lifestyle Feature

60

98

132

6.5 Creedmoor General Feature

Battle Arms Development Woody Firearm Feature

SureFire M600DF Product Review

64

110

Custom Remington 700 Firearm Feature

Eclipse Totality Outdoor Feature

Tailhook Mod I

Tailhook Mod II

These braces give the shooter ultimate control over their AR pistol by utilizing a fold down shelf that “hooks” under the shooter’s forearm to counter balance muzzle weight.

Tailhook Mod II

For more info on our products check us out at www.gearheadworks.com

Follow us: UN0012 / CARTRIDGES FOR WEAPONS, INERT PROJECTILE or CARTRIDGES, SMALL ARMS —

gearheadworks.com

RETAIL DIRECTORY

TAKE THE VECTOR IN A NEW DIRECTION

Dept.

18 Every Day Carry

NEW ACCESSORY UPGRADES AVAILABLE AT KRISS-USA.COM / STORE

08

120

Editor’s Letter

Shoot This Drill

10

136

New Products

Guns of IG

14

138

Morale Patch

Retailer Directory

40 Do It Yourself Cut, Thread, Crown a Barrel with Hand Tools

Rail Cover

Modular Rail Hand Guard

Picatinny Rail Section

3 Yards

Disclaimer: Prices, options and information for products and services featured in UN12 are current at the time of this issue’s publishing and are subject to change without notice. All imagery contained in UN12 are safely photographed in a closed set by professionals. Always follow all firearm safety rules.

USE COUPON CODE: “UN12MAG” TO SAVE 15% © 2017 KRISS USA, INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. INFORMATION AND SPECIFICATIONS FOR REFERENCE ONLY. SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE

06

UN12 / Issue 001

Hand Stop

001

DEPT.

Editor’s Letter

Transport of Dangerous Goods Ammunition, such as for rifles, handguns, shotguns, starter’s pistols and power tools that contain explosive material are dangerous goods listed under Class 1.4S. The information presented here is for the following UN numbers only: UN0012 / CARTRIDGES FOR WEAPONS, INERT PROJECTILE or CARTRIDGES, SMALL ARMS

—

Welcome to and thank you for picking up the first issue of UN12.

We love our gear too. We’re proud to showcase new and little-known products that haven’t gotten the

We’re an independent print magazine that focuses

Howard C Lim

spotlight they deserve, and as you’ll see, we’re not

on the artistry and craftsmanship of customized guns

shy about showing premium gear as well. You’ll find a

Editors

and gear. We don’t only celebrate the equipment

buyer’s guide dedicated to pistol-caliber ARs as well

The UN12 Creative Team

itself, but the people and methods behind their

as in-depth looks at several other great products. We

creation as well. There are times that we don’t get to

tell you what we like and are unapologetic about the

Creative Director

know the innovators, creators, craftsmen, artists and

things we don’t like. We also venture into the great

Steve Chavez

visionaries who create the tools and equipment that

outdoors and ride along with a group of guys chasing

we are so enamored with. We look to remedy that in

the total solar eclipse, and we learn how to cut, thread

Art Director

the pages of UN12.

and crown a barrel using only hand tools.

James Ho

We know. Some might think it’s crazy launching

We hope you enjoy the limited-run morale patch

a new print magazine in this age of digital media,

that comes with this issue. We partnered up with

but we also live in an era of specialized, small-batch

TNVC to bring you a rendition of their sought-after

everything, from refined craft beer to handmade knives. In that spirit, we are embarking on a new-to-us endeavor of creating a limited-production, high-quality print magazine that features beautiful photography and articles that both entertain and inform.

After creating some of the most successful print publications in this space, our team is proud to continue to

“We’re an independent print magazine focusing on the artistry and craftsmanship of customized guns and gear.”

innovate and forge ahead in a

“Lights Out Motherfucker” patch that they originally created years ago. The

Contributors Martin Anders, Bill Blowers, Danny Chang, Ben Davis, Stephen Dietrich, DMG, Nick Foster, Michael Furrer, Michael Grey, Charles Lasky, Ellis Lehner, Victor Nguyen, Frank Proctor, David Service, TracerX, Chris Tran, Allen Tsai, Jerry Tsai

collaboration patch comes in two versions. Like this

Special Thanks

magazine, both are made in

John Hwang, Aristotle Bartolome, Ben Wentzel, Michael Penhall, Michael Fiore, Jacob Chavez, Rainier Arms, OC Armory, TNVC, Battle Born Photography

small batches and will not be reissued. Collect it, wear it or trade it. But fair warning: If you trade it, make sure you get

Copy Editor

something good for it ’cause

Franklin Stroud, Shelley Drake

they won’t be available after this issue sells out.

We’re always looking for

Advertising Sales Danny Chang

new direction. As tastes have evolved, so should the

individuals to feature. Whether it’s a gun that you

direction, imagery and writing of your publications.

customized or a cool doohickey that you created,

Ad Coordinator

In that spirit, UN12 will focus on individualism and

we’re interested. Tag us @un12mag on Instagram if

Franklin Stroud

creativity.

you have something you think UN12 readers would

In this issue, we take a look at a custom rifle

like to see. Building something from the ground up

assembled by a pilot whose part-time passion is

is always a challenge. Join us on the journey as we

guns—and zombie flicks. He’s not a professional gun

build UN12 together. Sound off on what you think we

builder. It’s the work of enthusiasts like these that we

got right or could do better in this first issue on our

like to showcase. We also focus on two incredible

Facebook page at: /un12mag.

craftsmen who have made their mark in the custom gun world with their amazing, detailed work.

08

Publisher

UN12 / Issue 001

Printed in the USA Copyright © 2017 by NA27, LLC.

—The UN12 Creative Team

All Rights Reserved.

DEPT.

New Products

Gun Pro Delta 1 Sights Gun Pro’s new Delta 1 Sights take a different approach to pistol aiming. Instead of a traditional notch-and-post setup, Delta 1 Sights offer a simple single-point sight alignment that requires little or no visual and mental estimation, which means fast and precise sight alignment. Available for Glock (shown), M&P, and 1911.

Price: Starting at $89

Lowa Innox Evo GTX Qc

URL: gunpro.us

A new higher, quarter-cut version of Lowa’s popular Innox Evo, this athletically inspired style is the perfect all-around shoe for movement through rugged terrain. Set on Lowa’s proprietary DynaPU midsole for lightweight cushioning, durability and comfort, this boot is both waterproof and breathable thanks to its Gore-Tex lining.

Shown in Graphite/Lime.

Price: $190 URL: lowaboots.com

Patagonia Black Hole Cube 2L

Aero Precision AR-15 Atlas S-One Handguard

Keeping your gear organized is key to finding what you need when you need it the most. Packing smaller kit bags helps efficiency and the tough Black Hole Cube will help you do just that.

It holds everything from grooming supplies to loose tools, making it quicker to zero in on what you need inside a cluttered duffel bag or loaded backpack.

Shown in Paint Brush Red.

Machined from 6061-T6 aluminum, the S-ONE line of handguards is designed with size and weight in mind, providing the perfect handguard for your lightweight build. Atlas S-Ones are available in KeyMod and M-LOK profiles with 12” and 15” options in your choice of anodized black or Magpul FDE Cerakote finishes.

Price: Starting at $140 URL: aeroprecisionusa.com

Price: $30 URL: patagonia.com

V Seven M4 Upper Receiver Assembly Introduced for lightweight AR-15 builds, V Seven’s M4 upper receiver is machined from 7075 T6 forgings and features a lightened MIL-STD 1913 top rail and M4 extended feed ramps. The receiver weighs only 7.7 ounces thanks to its included V Seven Ultra-Light Forward Assist and Ultra-Light Port Door.

Price: $229 URL: vsevenweaponsystems.com

Defiance Front & Rear Flip-Up Sights These sights feature polymer and steel construction and feature an extremely low profile of only 0.43 inches when folded. The front sight post can accommodate various height over bore and sight radius requirements for different types of weapons including but not limited to AR-15 and KRISS Vector.

Additionally, the rear sight can fold completely flat regardless of which aperture is selected.

Price: Front $33 / Rear $50 URL: krissusa.com

Black Diamond Cosmo Headlamp Having your hands free for tasks is essential to getting any job done, especially when daylight is scarce. Featuring a waterproof housing and 200 lumens of power, the Cosmo is capable of six different lighting modes for custom illumination. Settings include proximity and distance modes, dimming, strobe, red night vision, and lock mode. Shown in Grass.

Price: $30 URL: blackdiamond.com

Gear Head Works Tailhook MOD 2 Tailhook MOD 2 takes the pistol brace concept to a whole new level with its ability to telescope for length. That’s right—this brace gives users five brace positions to choose from, up to a 12.75” length of pull. The reinforced polymer brace folds out to create the support shelf that counteracts the muzzle weight of your favorite large handgun. Available in Black or Flat Dark Earth finishes.

Price: $200 URL: gearheadworks.com

10

UN12 / Issue 001

UN12mag.com

11

Rise Armament RA-434 High Performance Trigger

Cannae Pro Gear Urban Prefect This full-load-capable covert pack is designed to blend into urban environments. It is available as a two-strap backpack or a singlestrap Quick Sling configuration.

A wide opening concealed carry compartment facilitates off-body carry. Its generous quick-access main cavity has a 15-inch laptop/tablet sleeve and interlocking zippers for pistol transport.

Featuring a straight trigger blade for enhanced control and lighter-feeling pull weight, the RA-434 is a self-contained, high-performance, drop-in replacement trigger for AR-type rifles. Its single-stage trigger pulls 3.5 pounds and delivers a smooth pull, a crisp break, and a clean release for for serious speed and precision.

Price: $95

Price: $169

URL: cannaeprogear.com

URL: risearmament.com

Dead Foot Arms Modified Cycle System with Folding Stock Adaptor Unlike other AR-15 folding stock systems, Dead Foot Arms’ system is capable of being fired even with the stock folded. This is a valuable capability if space and quick deployment are required. This retro-fit kit transforms any AR-15 into a fully functioning side-folding rifle. Kits are available for rifle and 9mm calibers with left- and right-side folding options.

Price: Starting at $380 URL: deadfootarms.com

FrogLube CLP Wipes Non-toxic FrogLube is a biodegradable lubricant made from “USDA Certified Food-Grade” ingredients. Perfect for keeping your firearm running reliably, it has a texture similar to wax in its cool state. When it heats up, it melts into a slippery substance that reduces friction and eliminates carbon fouling. FrogLube’s convenient saturated wipes come in 5 cloths per re-sealable pack.

Price: $11 URL: shop.froglube.com

12

UN12 / Issue 001

Ballistic Advantage Premium Series 14.5” SPR Fluted AR-15 Barrel This .223 Wylde-chambered, mid-length gas, 14.5-inch barrel is machined from 416R stainless steel with a bead-blasted finish. It features a FailZero nickel boroncoated Extended M4 Feed Ramp Extension and some of the most aggressive and weight reducing flutes on the market. Total weight is only 27 ounces.

Price: $220 URL: ballisticadvantage.com

DEPT.

Patch-01

X

UN12 TNVC

The Story Behind The Patch Text by

CHARLES “CHIP” LASKY

did we mail them to people who asked for one.

Hell, we never even advertised that we made this patch. All of this made it harder to get and more coveted by those who did get one. I ended up giving a handful of them to a buddy who was

T

he “Lights Out Motherfucker” morale

with a special mission unit at the end of 2011,

patch has become one of the most

but didn’t think much of it.

coveted patches for collectors, often found on

Then, in mid-2012, photos of operators from

eBay and patch trading sites going for hundreds

that unit started showing up online. And you

of dollars. But its roots are more humble than

could clearly see the LOMF patch on the backs

you’d think. In 2010, I approached my boss

of their Ops-Core FAST helmets. Friends of mine

Text by JERRY TSAI

about doing a good morale patch, something

started forwarding me links to internet forums

Images by MICHAEL GREY

that professionals would actually want to wear.

and Facebook discussions where people were

Let’s face it, company logo patches are cheesy.

frantically trying to find the origin of the patch.

o you collect and trade morale patches? We do too.

Have you ever seen a picture of an operator

Before you knew it, a few enterprising people

That’s why when we created UN12, we wanted

wearing an industry corporate logo patch on

who were lucky enough to have one started

every issue to include a cool, limited-run morale

his uniform or kit downrange? Yeah, me neither.

listing their LOMF patches on eBay! I saw one

patch. Always an original design, these patches are

Anyway, he green-lit the project and I came up

sell for $400. It was only a matter of time before

collaborative efforts with our content, creative or

with the idea of a patch emblazoned with the

people started associating it with TNVC. We

promotional partners. These collectible patches are

phrase “Lights Out Motherfucker.”

were inundated with calls and emails, asking

D

always inspired by tastemakers, innovators and visionary groundbreakers.

For our inaugural morale patch, we have the

honor of presenting our collaboration with Tactical Night Vision Company (TNVC). TNVC is a leader in the world of night vision—developing and manufacturing products for use by the military, law enforcement and civilians alike. TNVC painstakingly educates consumers of all levels about the sometimes-enigmatic world of night and thermal vision devices and accessories.

The company’s commitment to consumer

“After convincing the owner of the company one last time that this lessthan-PC patch was a good idea, we ordered them up.”

knowledge is so strong that it even has a dedicated training arm that travels the nation.

how people could get it. It wasn’t long after that

to work. I wanted the main focus of the patch

we started seeing Chinese knock-offs showing

classes, we suggest you do so.

to be the phrase, and have only a small outline

up. Yup—Chinese knock-off morale patches for

of the TNVC Raven from our logo. I certainly

airsofters. Classic. The knock-offs were pretty

shown here depicts the patch in two

did not want it to be another outright corporate

obvious, so we really didn’t care.

colorways. Which edition did you get?

advertisement. If you knew where the logo came

The different versions of the patches are

from, then you knew. If you didn’t associate

revisions over the years. These variations had

randomly packed with each issue; which

it with TNVC, then who cares? Bottom line: I

more to do with the material colors available

colorway you get is determined by the luck of

wanted my brothers to actually wear the patch.

from the embroidery place than any intentional

the draw. Show us which version you got and

After convincing the owner of the company one

design modification on our end. The original

where you’re displaying it (or even what you

last time that this less-than-PC patch was a

patch had a very light khaki background, olive

traded it for) by tagging us on Instagram with

good idea, we ordered them up. I still remember

drab perimeter and lettering stitching, and a light

the hashtag #un12patch.

the email from the sales girl who wrote up our

“laser” green for the word “out.” The first revision

sales order at the embroidery company. She

replaced the olive drab stitching with a dark

only limited and extremely collectible; it has

remarked that she laughed out loud when she

brown, while “out” was still left in light green.

an interesting story to it too. Read on to learn

saw the final design proof.

The current production version keeps the brown

You might have noticed that the image

The patch that you hold in your hand is not

more about the original TNVC “Lights Out Motherfucker” (LOMF) patch.

14

I sat down in front of Adobe Illustrator and got

If you ever get a chance to partake of one of its

UN12 / Issue 001

The LOMF patch has undergone several

The next layer to the LOMF patch was that

stitching, but replaces the background material

we would never sell it. The only way to get this

with a darker (coyote) tan. Of course, we had to

patch was to have us give it to you in person.

make a black version for our LE brothers and

And we would only give it to someone when

sisters too.

that person attended one of our classes, if we

The “Lights Out Motherfucker” patch remains

knew them from our past lives, if they showed

one of the most well-received and most sought-

us credentials at a trade show, and so on. We

after patches in the industry. If you’re lucky

never just set them out for anyone to take, nor

enough to have one, hold onto it. [ UN12 ] UN12mag.com

15

DEPT.

Product Review

Avoiding Obsolescence

e’re about to seriously

past few years have you “had to” switch up your

have a system that you lean toward more than the

date ourselves here

weaponlight because of ever-increasing lumen

others. If that sounds like you, don’t get rid of your

with this question, but have

ratings or swap your firearm accessories or other

unused accessories just yet.

you ever been faced with the

gear for the newest, updated versions?

W

unfortunate task of converting

Instead of buying your third or fourth sling mount because the old ones don’t fit your new

your stuff from an older version

STD-1913) rail has been one of our favorite

handguard’s attachment system, take a look

of a format to a newer version?

ways to attach stuff to our rifles for decades.

at using adapters first. Sure, we all know about

We’re talking about things

It’s universal, easy to use and never fails. All

KeyMod-to-Picatinny or M-LOK-to-Picatinny

like audiocassettes to CDs,

our attachments were configured to attach via

adapters, but were you aware of Picatinny-to-

then from CDs to digital music

Picatinny rail—flashlights, optics, slings and

KeyMod or even KeyMod-to-M-LOK adapters?

files. (We won’t even bring up

foregrips, all of it mounted on Picatinny… that is,

Midwest Industries makes the latter as well as

8-track.) VHS to DVD, then DVD

until a few years ago.

adapters that do vice versa too. It may sound

to Blu-ray… and now on to streaming services. Innovation

does that to you. It shakes up established norms, forces you to constantly upgrade and update your stuff—while making you feel old. What a pain in the

Accessory Mounting Adapters & Alternatives

Good old military standard Picatinny (MIL-

ass and drain on your wallet.

This phenomenon is all too common in the technology world, but the same problem applies to the firearms realm. How many times over the

Within close proximity of one another, VLTOR

funny, but it makes perfect sense. Why buy a

and Magpul released competing attachment

whole new M-LOK bipod mount when you can

systems that aimed to challenge two of Picatinny’s

just slap your KeyMod bipod onto your M-LOK rail

“It shakes up established norms, forces you to constantly upgrade and update your stuff. What a pain in the ass and drain on your wallet.”

Magpul hasn’t forgotten those with MOE handguards. These adapter plates allow for M-LOK attachments.

03

Picatinny adapters, such as these by BCM and Magpul, are available in M-LOK and KeyMod flavors in many different lengths.

04

Bootleg Inc.’s innovative Picmod handguards allow for simultaneous attachment of KeyMod and Picatinny accessories.

possible failure point, but for certain items or uses, an adapter could work out just fine.

For true early adopters and Magpul fans, you may still have a Magpul handguard using its MOE attachment system in your collection. Sure, Magpul may have ditched MOE in

edges. VLTOR’s KeyMod and Magpul’s M-LOK

those MOE handguards out there. The company

systems have helped smooth the surfaces and

released an adapter set that allows for the

shaved weight off of rifle handguards everywhere.

attachment of M-LOK accessories to MOE slots.

The two systems are now as commonly used as

This adapter set keeps your MOE-outfitted gun

is the old stalwart Picatinny rail. Which system will

current and capable of using the latest M-LOK kit.

If you’re an early adopter of all things new, you

02

Yes, there is added bulk and another

favor of M-LOK, but they didn’t forget about all

yet to tell.

Midwest Industries KeyMod and M-LOK adapters come in handy when you don’t have the correct style accessory.

by simply using an adapter instead?

shortcomings—its heavy weight and bulky sharp

emerge to become the future standard, time has

01

If you’re not invested in any particular system just yet, you may not have to decide. Companies such as Bootleg Inc. and Impact Weapons

might have a healthy collection of parts that are

Components (IWC) offer innovative products

made to fit all three systems in your accessory

that tackle the problem of having more than one

cache. If you’re like us, you got them before you

attachment system in your stable. Bootleg Inc.’s

knew which system you preferred, but by now, you

Picmod system allows for simultaneous KeyMod and Picatinny accessory mounting. The company accomplishes this with Picatinny-compatible slots that are cut into the front portions of its series of KeyMod-endowed Picmod handguards. IWC, on the other hand, offers accessories that can fit both KeyMod and M-LOK rails with just the reversal of a mounting nut to allow one attachment to fit two different mounting systems. Simply brilliant.

With all the available adapters, it looks like we won’t have to suffer from fear of obsolescence, at least for the time being. Now if only electronics were that simple (and cheap) to update. [ UN12 ]

16

UN12 / Issue 001

UN12mag.com

17

DEPT.

Every Day Carry / 01

01

02

07

08

Every Day Carry S

ometimes it takes more than a single tool to get you through the day. It takes a

well-planned and assembled set of tools that can tackle every possibility you might find yourself in, from the mundane to the extraordinary.

It should be mentioned that there’s no rule stating one’s EDC should purely be utilitarian and not also aesthetically pleasing. Since these

03

daily-carried items are with us day-in and dayout, we’re especially aware of their form as well as their function. It’s with this expectation of refinement and practicality that we present the following two EDC setups.

09

04

01

07

Hitch & Timber / The Trucker’s Hitch

Griffin Pocket Tool Stainless

MSRP: $86

MSRP: $40

URL: hitchandtimber.com

URL: griffinpockettool. com

02

05

Ray-Ban Aviator Classic MSRP: $153 URL: ray-ban.com

03 Fisher Space Pen TLP MSRP: $40

06

URL: spacepen.com

10

Fox Knives Flipper Ansø Design MSRP: $180 URL: foxcutlery.com

09 Audeze iSINE20 In-Ear Headphone

04

MSRP: $599

Samsung Galaxy Note Edge

10

MSRP: unavailable URL: samsung.com

11

08

URL: audeze.com

Silicone Power Jewel J80 64GB

05

MSRP: $49

Casio G-Shock DW5600M-8

11

MSRP: $99 URL: casio.com

06

URL: silicon-power.com

Nitecore Tube MSRP: $12 URL: nitecore.com

Foursevens Mini Mk II Combo MSRP: $55 URL: foursevens.com

18

UN12 / Issue 001

UN12mag.com

19

01

Premium EDC Items

20

Hitch & Timber / The Trucker’s Hitch

Foursevens Mini Mk II Combo

MSRP: $86 URL: hitchandtimber.com Our 2¢: Four ounces of tanned leather is cut, stitched, and burnished by hand to form this made-to-order wallet. It features a bi-fold design with one card sleeve that holds 6 to 8 cards. Two interior stash pockets may contain folded cash and receipts or more cards. An elastic band holds a pocket pen.

MSRP: $55 URL: foursevens.com Our 2¢: Developed with enhanced electronics and optics, the Mini Mk II raises the bar and offers up to 1,020 lumens from a specially developed high-discharge rate RCR123A battery, or 550 lumens from any standard CR123A battery. The Mk II combo includes a charger and the special RCR123A battery.

MSRP: $25 URL: griffinpockettool.com Our 2¢: Combining a variety of tools that you’ll find useful in your everyday carry, this bold yet attractively designed implement brings extra capability without the bulk. Featuring more than 11 tools in one, the Griffin Pocket Tool can be used as a box opener, a screwdriver, a bit holder, a prying tool, a wrench and more.

Fisher Space Pen TLP

Audeze Headphone

MSRP: $40 URL: spacepen.com Our 2¢: The TLP, or Telescopic Space Pen, features solid aluminum construction and a unique retraction mechanism. Pulling the end lengthens it to create a full-size pen while exposing its ballpoint tip in the same motion. Easily deployable with one hand, the TLP is ready to go when you are.

MSRP: $599 URL: audeze.com Our 2¢: Audiophiles have been clamoring for these in-ear headphones since they dropped earlier this year. They are billed as the world’s first in-ear planar magnetic headphones and the iSINE20 features zero distortion and outstanding control and responsiveness for better bass, clarity, and improved imaging.

Fox Knives Flipper Ansø Design

UN12 / Issue 001

Griffin Pocket Tool Stainless

MSRP: $180 URL: foxcutlery.com Our 2¢: Collaborative work between Danish industrial designer and knifemaker Jens Ansø and Italian knife manufacturer Fox Coltellerie results in a beautifully finished folder that boasts handles made of Palissander Santos, a type of rosewood, and a 3.5-inch blade featuring a hardness of HRC 58-60.

DESIGNED BY SHARPS BROS.

www.RAINIERARMS.com

877-556-GUNS (4867)

DEPT.

Every Day Carry / 02

09

10

01

07

Smith & Wesson / M&P9 Shield

JHO Knives / GS1

MSRP: $449

01

URL: smith-wesson.com

02 04

Hyve Technologies / Shield 9mm +2 MSRP: $28

11

02

05

03

Bรถker Plus / Urban Survival MSRP: $52 URL: bokerusa.com

03

Olight / H1R Nova

TIHK / Evadeclip

URL: olightstore.com

MSRP: $29

10

MSRP: $67

04

Gerber / GDC Money Clip

Apple / Watch Series 2

URL: gerbergear.com

MSRP: $599

11

MSRP: $37

05

Apple / iPhone 7 Plus

AUCEE / Stainless iWatch Band

URL: apple.com

MSRP: $30 URL: amazon.com

06 Alien Gear Holsters / M&P Shield 9mm Shell

07

08

09

URL: apple.com

12

URL: jho-knives.com

URL: hyvetechnologiesbuilder.com

URL: tihk.co

06

MSRP: $260

MSRP: $13 URL: aliengearholsters.com

MSRP: $869 (128 GB)

12 Pelican / 0955 Sport Wallet MSRP: $30 URL: pelican.com

13 KeySmart MSRP: $20 URL: getkeysmart.com

08

13

22

UN12 / Issue 001

UN12mag.com

23

02

Premium EDC Items

24

Böker Plus / Urban Survival

Gerber / GDC Money Clip

MSRP: $52 URL: bokerusa.com Our 2¢: This pen knife was developed for Böker Plus by knife-fighting expert Jim Wagner. The Urban Survival has an overall length of 5.75 inches and a blade length of 1.63 inches. Its scalpel-like 440C stainless steel blade and slim handle offer precise control. A pocket clip and glass breaker are included.

MSRP: $37 URL: gerbergear.com Our 2¢: If you enjoy being discreet, this item is right up your alley. Is it a money clip or a knife?

Say yes to both. The GDC Money Clip features a modern look and a slim profile that holds up to five credit cards in its clip. Hidden in the tool’s 3.6-inch width is a 1.75-inch fine-edge blade with sturdy thumb grip.

MSRP: $29 URL: tihk.co Our 2¢: This sleek multi-tool functions as not only a glass breaker and two types of saws, but as a 3-piece lock-pick set as well.

It’s unobtrusive and fits just about anywhere thanks to its integrated pocket clip. Is it legal? It depends on your location. The legalities of lockpick sets can be found on TIHK’s website.

KeySmart

JHO Knives / GS1

MSRP: $20 URL: getkeysmart.com Our 2¢: Keep your keys organized as if they were instruments found in a Swiss Army Knife. KeySmart is a customizable key ring that can not only incorporate your keys, but accessories such as a USB thumb drive, bottle opener, even a golf divot tool.

KeySmart can be expanded to hold from 2 to 100 keys.

MSRP: $260 URL: jho-knives.com Our 2¢: GS1 is short for Gentleman Slasher and it is inspired by the classic straight razor. We love the look of the square blade design and matching angular handle. It’s a handsome-yet-simple flipper, which is constructed of CPM S35VN Steel and Titanium. It’s worthy to note that the GS1’s blade does not lock in place.

Pelican / 0955 Sport Wallet

UN12 / Issue 001

TIHK / Evadeclip

MSRP: $30 URL: pelican.com Our 2¢: Pelican’s hard cases are used by scientists, the military and explorers to keep their sensitive equipment protected from rough treatment and tough elements. Now you can bring that level of protection to the contents of your wallet. This crush-proof case includes a dual mesh pocket and easy-open latch.

DEPT.

Quick Hit

Product Review

Text by MARTIN ANDERS

01 This stock features 6061-T6 aluminum and carbon fiber construction.

Images by JERRY TSAI

C

hances are good that the buttstock on your AR-15 is made of plastic. In fact, most modern rifles

now come standard with polymer-derived stocks. Even aftermarket stocks are mostly made of plastic, not that there’s anything wrong with that. Plastic is lightweight, can take a decent amount of punishment, and is impervious to the elements. All positive attributes—for the most part.

Fortis Manufacturing decided to go in the completely opposite direction with the creation of their one-hundredpercent plastic-less LA Stock. The mostly aluminum

Innovative Lever Action design

stock weighs a smidgen under a full pound, which is a far cry from the current trend of going as light as possible.

Have you seen those “stocks” that are essentially buffer tubes with buttpads attached to them? This is not one of them. Have the crew at Fortis lost their collective minds, or are they on to something?

No stranger to lightweight rifle components, Fortis

Fortis Manufacturing

LA Stock

has spent years perfecting and creating all kinds of lightweight parts, including everything from free-float handguards to optic mounts. So why the swing towards a heavyweight stock?

Probably because there is nothing else like it out there.

The stock is machined from 6061-T6 aluminum and feels as solid as the Rock’s pecs (we imagine). It is finished with mil-spec Type III hardcoat anodization and features a cheekpad made of carbon fiber, which is curious since

02 The silver tab releases the stock’s grip on the buffer tube and allows you to pull the lever, letting you reposition the stock or remove it entirely.

we figure weight savings is not the main reason Fortis went with that material, which is known for its lightweight strength. It’s most certainly just for the looks. And we can’t fault them for that; it looks damned good.

The LA in LA Stock stands for Lever Action. Its innovative locking effect on any mil-spec-diameter buffer tube clamps down for an unrivaled solid lock-up. If buttstock wobble bothers you, this is your stock. Not only does the stock itself already feel substantial due to its construction, its solid mount makes it feel even more so.

To unlock the stock from the buffer tube, push the

Crafted mostly of aluminum and carbon fiber

silver-colored tab. That will release the stock’s deathgrip on the tube and allow you to pull down on the lever, which

03 The optional Cerakoted mil-spec buffer tube features laser markings for quick position reference.

allows you to reposition the stock or remove it entirely.

When released, the stock moves freely on the tube without any tactile indication of what position the stock is in. Optional provisions are provided in case you want feedback by feel and sound telling you what position the stock is on the tube.

Weighs 1 pound, costs almost $400

26

UN12 / Issue 001

UN12mag.com

27

Quick Hit: Fortis Manufacturing LA Stock

01 Fortis offers the LA Stock in a bundle that includes a mil-spec buffer tube, castle nut, and QD end plate.

As much as we may gush about its solidity, we must also point out that the LA Stock’s profile is slim and quite sleek. We’d say it’s similar in width to Magpul CTR/MOE and MFT Minimalist stocks. It contains three built-in, rotation-limited, quickdetach (QD) sockets for convenient

“As much as we may gush about its solidity, we must also point out that the LA Stock’s profile is slim and quite sleek.”

At nearly 8 inches long, the LA

style notches, the Fortis LA Stock is

we compared it to. It’s somewhere

right up your alley.

between half an inch to a full inch

expensive for a buttstock, but

stocks short, it might not work out

its innovative design, superlative

for you.

machine work, steadfast feel and

The stock retails for nearly 400

and one on the “toe of its foot.” Fortis

accustom to the lightweight plastic

here is listed at $445. That’s a hell

offers the stock by itself or in a bundle

stocks that are so ubiquitous today. It

of a lot of dough for a buttstock!

that includes a six-position sniper

didn’t take long to realize the benefits

Considering the impeccable

gray Cerakoted mil-spec buffer tube,

of such a solid stock. The balance it

craftsmanship, detailed design and

castle nut, and a Fortis QD end plate.

provided on our longer-barreled rifles,

high-quality materials that went

The buffer tube features laser marks

especially when a suppressor was

into its creation, we can see why

for quick position reference.

attached, was a welcome benefit.

its asking price is as much as it is.

Its substantial feel and additional

If the price gives you pause, you

were frankly taken aback by its

rearward weight added a certain

might have to admire it from afar,

weight. It’s just too heavy, we thought

confidence to the way the rifles felt

but if you’re a shooter who values

to ourselves. We have become

and handled.

sturdiness and wants to take your

When we first picked it up, we

The bottom line: It may be crazy

longer, depending, so if you like your

bones and the bundle that we feature

sling mounting, one on either side

rifle build up more than just a few

Stock is longer than the other stocks

fresh AF styling make up for the sticker shock.

: : Fortis Manufacturing : : LA Stock: $395 : : LA Stock Bundle Pack: $445 : : URL: fortismfg.com

02

03

The LA Stock locked in position, and the lever disengaged to allow adjustment.

Nearly 8 inches at its shortest position, the LA Stock is by no means short.

MODERN WARRIORS CHOOSE MODWALL A Modular Display & Storage System

540.298.8906

tacticalwalls.com 28

UN12 / Issue 001

FEATURE

: : SIG MCX-based PDW : : Chambered in rifle caliber 300BLK or 5.56mm : : 16-inch overall length in shortest configuration

The PDW Evolved

Text by CHRIS TRAN Images by MICHAEL GREY

& ELLIS LEHNER

“The Rattler is truly the next evolution of a missionspecific PDW, but packs the punch of a rifle-caliber platform.”

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UN12 / Issue 001

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31

FEATURE

W

hen you think of a Personal Defense Weapon (PDW), you might immediately picture the

venerable HK MP5—the small, highly concealable, pistol-caliber PDW has been used by military and law enforcement alike for decades (as well as by John McClane when he liberated Nakatomi Tower).

“Built without a forward assist and an understated case deflector to minimalize snags on clothing and gear, the Rattler is sleek, smooth on the sides, and exceptionally maneuverable.”

Developed in the mid-1960s, the legendary MP5 is currently still a front-line weapon and a favorite

The Rattler is the baby of the modular MCX line

among its users. As well-rounded as that weapon

and it is a very slick, concealable, and ergonomically

might be, SIG Sauer believes that its newest PDW

friendly PDW. The weapon is available as a short-

entry, the MCX Rattler, has it beat. It fits all the above

barreled rifle (SBR) or pistol and can be fired with its

criteria and then some, but with some impressive

stock or SBX pistol stabilizing brace (PSB) folded

enhancements and one very important distinction:

or extended. The stock has been designed to clear

The Rattler is chambered in both 300BLK and 5.56

the fire control group so as not to get in the way

rifle caliber variants.

of usual weapon manipulations. Built without a

Anyone who has shot a firearm indoors or in

forward assist and an understated case deflector to

close quarters can attest to the chest-thumping

minimalize snags on clothing and gear, the Rattler

concussion induced by expended gas spewing forth

is sleek, smooth on the sides, and exceptionally

from the muzzle. This “baby PDW” is no exception.

maneuverable.

According to SIG lore, firing the Rattler from within a

Built from 7075 aluminum, the complete PDW

vehicle produced a “teeth-rattling” concussion. The

(minus sights or optics) weighs in at a featherweight 5

nickname stuck.

pounds 2 ounces, including the magazine. The Rattler also features an integral ambidextrous mag release,

32

SOME BACKGROUND

safety selector levers, and SIG’s own “SIG Enhanced”

The Rattler is truly the next evolution of a mission-

trigger, with a pull weight breaking at 5.5 pounds.

specific PDW, but packs the punch of a rifle-caliber

Overall length with the stock unfolded is a minimal

platform. Rumors of the Rattler already in use by

23.5 inches, and the gun is only 8 inches tall. With the

SOF units overseas have been whispered in certain

stock folded, the Rattler comes in at approximately 16

circles. We cannot independently verify this story;

inches. Let that sink in for a second. The entire length

however, its design and capabilities would definitely

of the weapon is the length of your typical AR-15’s

seem appealing for personnel that needed the most

barrel alone. That’s about as compact as it gets. The

concealable and suitably powerful weapon possible

abbreviated rail is free-floating, and is apportioned

for task-specific missions.

with M-LOK channels for additional accessories.

UN12 / Issue 001

UN12mag.com

33

FEATURE

The 300BLK version boasts a 5.5-inch barrel with a 1:5 twist rate and a two-position switch on the right side that regulates gas output for firing both suppressed and unsuppressed. The 5.56 variant cannot be run suppressed due to the barrel length.

“We had the chance to run the Rattler in full auto, which made for a glorious, noisy spectacle, incessant grinning, and determined teeth rattling.”

While not independently verified by this magazine, SIG reps informed us that the Rattler will print at 1.5

to 50 yards using MCX VIRTUS rifles in 300BLK

inches at 100 yards and 3 inches at 200 yards.

and 5.56 configurations, ending the final stage in a

All things considered, on paper the Rattler seems like the perfect solution for personnel who have the

Hogan’s Alley.

Through the final course of fire, we engaged

operational need to carry a rifle-caliber weapon in a

multiple steel targets at 50 yards through two window

tiny, concealable package. So how does it shoot?

bays. Although ours was a short exposure, the Rattler made a definite impression. We initially had

THE RUNDOWN

some difficulty, missing a few shots here and there as

We had the chance to run the Rattler through

our body mechanics adjusted to transitioning from

various courses of fire while at SIG Academy, and

a 11.5-inch 5.56 VIRTUS to the diminutive 5.5-inch

an opportunity to have a little fun and send rounds

Rattler barrel, but once we settled in, shots were

downrange in full auto, which made for a glorious,

easy. The SIG enhanced trigger was buttery smooth,

noisy spectacle, incessant grinning, and determined

and the Rattler is easily pointable.

teeth rattling.

After zeroing our Rattlers using SIG Sauer

Due to its small size, we had to really get behind the gun and change our shooting stance to a

ROMEO4T red dots, we shot a few mags of SIG

more classic elbows-tucked position. Despite the

Sauer 200-grain sub-sonic 300BLK ammunition

minimalist aluminum stock, shooting the Rattler,

from various firing positions on paper and steel at

although a concussive experience, is a lot of fun—

50 yards. Steel rang, paper targets were summarily

belying its deadly serious purpose.

dispatched, and our competitive fires were stoked.

1

Attached Accessories 01 With its stock folded, the Rattler easily fits into all sorts of bags.

02 Like the MCX, the Rattler’s stock is attached via Picatinny rail, which facilitates quick stock swaps if desired.

03 A full-length Picatinny top rail is available to mount optics, lights and lasers.

04 The svelte folding stock contains a QD socket for sling attachment.

2

We took turns running Dueling Tree competitions,

and to end the day, we finished off with an abbreviated “Jungle Run,” a running course of fire from 350 yards down

34

UN12 / Issue 001

Being hyper-aware of the 5.5-inch barrel and jarring capabilities of a full-auto Rattler, we outfitted the PDW with some gear that should keep our hands firmly attached to the handguard—and our wrists. Railscale’s G10-machined M-LOK-compatible rail panels offer truly enhanced grip with an aggressive honeycomb pattern that allows the shooter a superglued grip on the Rattler’s short forend. At the rail’s 6 o’clock position, we attached a Railscale Karve handstop, which is made of 6061 aluminum and allows for push or pull gripping styles.

4

01 Steiner DBAL-I2

02 Railscales LEAF

3

03 Railscales G10-machined M-LOK rail panel

04 Railscales Karve handstop

The infrared laser (IR) unit you see attached to the top rail is a Steiner DBAL-I2. DBAL stands for Dual Beam Aiming Laser and this model allows the shooter to switch between a visible green laser and a night vision-compatible IR pointer. The DBAL is also available with a red laser option as well in case green is not your thing. Due to the limited rail space, we also fitted a Railscales LEAF sight on top of the DBAL. This fantastic invention allows for both co-witnessing with the red dot and use with a rear flip sight while saving valuable rail space.

UN12mag.com

35

FEATURE

THE FINAL VERDICT We believe the Rattler to be a mission-specific winner. Make no mistake about it: This is definitely a niche firearm, built with specific intent and purpose and for specific operators. In this author’s line of

“Due to the Rattler’s small profile and its ability to fire with the stock in the closed position, it is doubly more effective than a SBR.”

2

work as a domestic police officer, the Rattler could serve as an excellent choice for low-signature

The 300BLK Rattler has an MSRP around $2,727.

dignitary protection, as well as for Surveillance and

It’s interesting to take note that this firearm’s upper

Technology (SAT) missions, where plainclothes

receiver will fit on an MCX or standard AR lower

operators need to blend in with the crowd and still be

with an adapter, and will also be offered in a pistol

prepared to bring battle-ready calibers to bear at a

configuration utilizing SIG’s 3-position PSB for those

moment’s notice.

not wanting to deal with tax stamps and long wait

In our world’s changing times, having the ability

times. However, if money is no object, and you want

to bring a rifle-caliber firearm into the fight as

the latest and greatest from SIG Sauer, the Rattler is a

quickly as possible, from a discrete carry position,

beautiful and exceptionally functional piece of lethal

or from an everyman’s backpack in non-permissive

engineering that’s well worth a look. [ UN12 ]

1

environments, is an important consideration for domestic officers or overseas personnel alike.

Due to the Rattler’s small profile and its ability

to fire with the stock in the closed position, it is

: : Pistol version will be offered

doubly more effective than a SBR with a folding stock in that it can be fired immediately and brought quickly to bear. Equipped with a 1x Mini Red Dot

: : Capable of being fired when folded

(MRD), it makes for a fast, accurate, and lethal weapon platform with few downsides outside of ballistic considerations for the potential shooting

: : Upper will fit on MCX and most AR-15 lowers

environment.

We asked SIG reps about any upcoming releases in 300BLK self-

defense or LE/mil ammo that addressed overpenetration or barrier-blind considerations, and if there were any ammunition development

SIG Sauger sigsauer.com

01 The diminutive Rattler compared to its sister, the MCX Virtus.

Size Comparison SIG says that the MCX Rattler is intended to be the smallest rifle on the market. We can’t be sure if it is or not, but what we do know is that it is extremely short and impressively powerful. It is still capable of delivering its 300BLK or 5.56 rifle-caliber payload even with its stock folded and measures a mere 16 inches long. For a visual comparison, here you see it lined up with a 9mm pistol caliber MP5 and an AR-15 16-inch barrel. Notice that the complete weapon is shorter than the AR’s barrel alone. Incredible!

16"

01

02

HK MP5A3 Length: 21.7"

SIG’s Taper-Lok flash hider easily mounts SIG’s line of SDR762-QD suppressors.

03 The Rattler is equipped with a “SIG Enhanced” trigger with a pull weight breaking at 5.5 pounds.

04 A wide-open mag well takes magazines quickly and efficiently.

3

02

.300 AAC Blackout

.300 AAC Blackout

5.56 NATO

AR-15 Barrel Length: 16"

03 SIG Sauer MPX Rattler Length: 16"

Ammunition Comparison

projects for a Rattler-specific platform, but the reps professionally declined to respond. We’ll just have to wait and see what SIG Sauer has in store for the future.

Of course we would have liked to have more time behind the trigger. We’d like to have the chance to run it at distance (100 yards and beyond) and personally test print results out of the 5.5-inch barrel, and we’d of course like another chance at SIG Academy’s Jungle Run.

36

UN12 / Issue 001

4

01 SIG Sauer, 9mm, Elite Ball, FMJ Bullet Weight: 115 gr Muzzle Velocity: 1,185 fps Muzzle Energy: 359 ft-lb

02 SIG Sauer, 223REM, Elite Match Grade, OTM Bullet Weight: 77 gr Muzzle Velocity: 2,750 fps Muzzle Energy: 1,293 ft-lb

03 SIG Sauer 300BLK, Elite Match Grade, OTM Bullet Weight: 220 gr Muzzle Velocity: 1,000 fps Muzzle Energy: 488 ft-lb

UN12mag.com

37

9mm

.45 ACP

UN12

E X P L O D E D VIEW

SIG Sauer MCX Rattler

Tuning isn't just for automobiles.

5.56 Muzzle Brake / Control Shield™ Combo

16" Night Rail™ - MLOK

Low Profile Gas Block

SHIFT™ Short Angled Grip MLOK

Personalize your firearm to be a reflection of you.

Specifications: Caliber: 300BLK Frame: Anodized 7075 T6 aluminum Sights: None

Billet Upper Receiver F1™ Optics Mount

Trigger: SIG Enhanced Trigger; 5.5- to 9-lb pull Overall Length (full): 23 in.

Overall Length (stock folded): 16 in.

Height: 8 in.

Width: 2.8 in.

Barrel: 5.5-in. carbon steel with Nitride finish; 1:5 twist Weight w/magazine: 5 lbs., 2 oz.

5.56 Hammer™ Charging Handle

MSRP: $2,727 URL: sigsauer.com

Featured Accessories (not included): Railscale G10-machined M-LOK

LA™ Stock

Railscale Karve handstop Railscales LEAF

Fortis Manufacturing makes products with one goal in mind: to infuse exceptional designs without compromising integrity. The marriage between our high quality materials and our precision machining is what sets us apart. Uncompromising quality and style on each and every product that leaves our facility.

SIG Sauer ROMEO3 1X25 MM SIG Sauer SRD762TI-QD SIG Sauer 300BLK, Elite Match Grade, OTM Steiner DBAL-I2

38

UN12 / Issue 001

We are Fortis MFG. Made in the USA. UN0012 / CARTRIDGES FOR WEAPONS, INERT PROJECTILE or CARTRIDGES, SMALL ARMS —

www.FORTISMFG.com

253.277.3211

DEPT.

Do It Yourself

What’s Needed

• Clamping Miter Box • High-Tension Hacksaw with Bi-Metal Blade • Tap Magic Cutting Fluid • Brownells 90-Degree Cutter & Steel Pilot (.22 Centerfire)

D

Images by JERRY TSAI

• Merlintools 1/2-28 TPI Right Hand Thread Die • NTC 1/2-28 TPU Threading Alignment Tool Die Starter (.22/.223)

• Brownells 79-Degree Muzzle Crown Cutter (1/2”)

• Merlintools 1-1/2” Diameter Round Die Stock Handle Wrench

• Brownells Brass Pilot (.22 Centerfire)

• Marker

• Brownells Muzzle Facing/Crowning Cutter Drill

• Masking Tape • Power Drill • Measuring Tape

epending on who you ask, working

in the ruining of an expensive part, and at

up paying for themselves, especially if you

on one’s own gun can mean vastly

worst could lead to a dangerous catastrophic

cut down more than a couple of barrels.

Why would you want to cut your barrel?

different things to different people. To a

failure. But let’s not overthink it. Simpler

majority, something as simple as swapping

procedures, such as cutting a barrel down

you might ask. In our example here, we

out a grip or stock can imply that they are

shorter, can oftentimes be done with nothing

wanted to see how a rifle-length gas system

doing work to their firearm. Others take it up

more than a hacksaw and a healthy dose of

would work in a 16-inch AR-15 barrel. Others

a notch and stipple or even Cerakote their

sweat. It might not be pretty, but it’ll get the

may want change up a build without the

own guns. Then there’s work that requires

job done.

hassle or expense of sending their barrel out

specialized training and tools, such as

Text by DANNY CHANG

• CNC Warrior 1/2” Annular Cutter Kit

In this Do It Yourself article, we tackle

to a gunsmith. Having never done this prior to

making slide cuts or performing barrel work.

cutting a barrel down then threading and

the compiling of this article, we aim to show

It’s no surprise that barrel work is often

crowning it using nothing but a few hand

you the actual results of this DIY, for better

left to the expert hands of a trained and

tools. Sure, some of the tools are specifically

or for worse. We started our project with an

experienced gunsmith. If not handled

made for the job, but they won’t break the

18-inch barrel and the following list of tools

properly, improper barrel work could result

bank to buy either. In fact, the tools can end

and supplies.

Cut, Crown, Thread Using Hand Tools

Disclaimer: Always take safety precautions when working with tools or other danger goods. This DIY should be done at your own risk.

Verify your results with a certified gunsmith prior to using the final product.

40

UN12 / Issue 001

UN12mag.com

41

DIY: Barrel Cut, Thread & Crown Using Hand Tools

Start

02 Cutting After mounting the barrel securely in the miter box, we used a high-tension hacksaw fitted with a bi-metal blade to cut the barrel. We used generous amounts of Tap Magic cutting fluid to make sure that everything went smoothly.

06 Step Down Using an annular cutter, we reduced the barrel’s outside diameter to make it ready for threading. This step can be done manually, but we found that using a power drill at lower speeds produced the quickest results. Don’t forget the cutting fluid!

01 Measure and Mark Length We start by measuring where we want to cut the barrel. You’ve heard it before and we’ll say it again: measure twice, cut once.

Don’t forget that for certain barrels, such as with AR-15s, the barrel extension should not be included in the barrel’s measurement length. To measure, close the bolt and slide a wooden dowel from the muzzle end so that it makes contact with the closed bolt.

Mark the dowel where it sticks out of the barrel. That’s your barrel’s length. In our case, we want to cut 2 inches off the end of our 18-inch barrel to make it a 16-inch.

To be on the safe side, we left about 1/8” extra length to make sure we stayed out of NFA territory. Using a marker, we drew a line where we wanted to make the cut.

03 Cutting Result We weren’t too sure what results we’d have after going at the barrel with a hacksaw, but we were pleasantly surprised at the outcome.

The cut ended up looking surprisingly clean.

07 Threading Tools In preparation for muzzle threading, we inserted a 1/2-28 TPI right-hand thread die into a 1-1/2” diameter round die stock handle wrench. We then inserted a threading alignment tool, whose purpose is to squarely guide the die onto the barrel in order to eliminate the chance of crooked threading.

04 Square the Muzzle To make sure that the surface of the muzzle was square, we used a 90-degree cutter with .22 centerfire steel pilot to make sure things remained straight. Again, we used cutting oil and elbow grease to get the job done.

08 Threading

05 Measure Thread Length After doing some research online and measuring a few other barrels, we figured that the thread length of our barrel should be about 0.6” long. We taped off where we needed the barrel to be threaded.

42

UN12 / Issue 001

With the barrel mounted securely in a vise, we doused the area with cutting fluid and went to work. Note that the threading alignment tool must be moved along as you thread. The results don’t look half bad. All we need now is a decent crown.

UN12mag.com

43

DIY: Barrel Cut, Thread & Crown Using Hand Tools

HARNESS THE FUTURE. V SEVEN STRONG.

10

09

Test Fit

Crowning

With all our operations complete, we screwed on a muzzle device to test the fit. The device went on smoothly without any wobble and sat at the barrel’s shoulder, as it should. We’d say this DIY was a success!

We combined a 79-degree muzzle crown cutter with a brass pilot and muzzle facing crowning cutter with our power drill and cutting fluid and carefully got to finishing off the barrel’s crown. The results aren’t as smooth as some we’ve seen, but it’s not too shabby for something done with a hand-held drill.

Finish

To the left is the section of barrel that was hacked off. To the right is our shiny new threaded barrel.

We started out with an 18-inch barrel similar to the one shown at left. The one on the right is our final 16inch version.

casual plinking? We’d say so. One thing is for sure: We would doublecheck our work with a gunsmith prior any kind of barrel work. The procedure

to using it with a suppressor, if at all.

took us about an hour and a half,

We hope that this DIY will inspire you

including assembling the tools and

take on work like this. It’s our intention

BOTTOM LINE

figuring out what we were supposed

to take some of the apprehension out

We are by no means professional

to do with them. We now have the

of certain DIY projects so you can

gunsmiths. At best, we’re garage

skills and tools to cut, thread and

learn from our experience—for better

tinkerers who like to monkey around.

crown our own barrels.

or worse. Now it’s time for us to see if

Knowing that, we were glad to see

Did we do as clean a job as a real

this 16-inch barrel will run reliably with

that this DIY turned out as well as it

gunsmith would do? Surely not. Is the

a rifle-length gas system, but that’s an

did. Again, it was our first time doing

barrel work good enough for some

article for another time. [ UN12 ]

MAGNESIUM HYPER-LIGHT KEYMOD HANDGUARD AR15

LITHIUM-ALUMINUM ULTRA-LIGHT M-LOK HANDGUARD AR15

15" WEIGHS 5.4 OZ

15" WEIGHS 7.7 OZ

13.5" WEIGHS 5.0 OZ

VSEVENWEAPONSYSTEMS.COM 44

UN12 / Issue 001

13.5" WEIGHS 7.2 OZ

ADDITIONAL LENGTHS IN 308 & 556 AVAILABLE

MADE IN THE

USA

DEPT.

Buyer’s Guide

Night Vision Helmets O

threats—though I have seen it

on our guns and helmets, we must

happen, it’s the exception and not

interrogate every item: How will

the rule.

this positively or negatively affect

In recent years, we have seen the

my mission? The following is an

fielding of scalable armor that will

examination of three helmet setups

increase the protection level of a

that take into account end users,

helmet to stop rifle rounds. But let’s

price points, missions, and the

get one thing clear: Taking a high-

author’s operational experience.

velocity projectile to the grape, even one stopped by a ballistic helmet,

HELMET TYPES

can still cause permanent or lethal

Before we start dissecting the gear,

results. Major neck trauma and/

it’s important to discuss the types

or traumatic brain injury can occur.

of available helmets and their uses.

Moral of that story: Don’t get hit in

We can reasonably break down

the head.

helmets into two categories: Ballistic

Bump helmets are much like

evolved to not only provide

designed to defeat ballistic threats

protect the wearer from blunt force

cranial protection, but to also

such as bullets and frag, as well

trauma impact (falling debris, bumps

Images by JERRY TSAI

act as a mounting platform for

as blunt force trauma from impact.

on the head, falling from height, and

all manner of devices used on

Bump Helmets are designed to

so on). But just because they’re not

and off the battlefield. Ask a war

defeat blunt force trauma threats,

designed to stop projectiles doesn’t

fighter or law enforcement SWAT

but provide no ballistic protection.

mean they don’t have a place on

“night vision goggles.” Indeed, the ability to see in the dark provides one of the most critical battlefield advantages in history. Night vision goggles (NVGs) are so important

02

to mission success and operator safety that professionals will literally outfit their helmets around this technology.

Helmet setups should be entirely

UN12 / Issue 001

not designed to defeat rifle-caliber

and hang every piece of technology

ballistic helmets, but designed to

more often than not you will hear

46

The majority of ballistic helmets are

available PALS slot with a pouch

and Bump. Ballistic Helmets are

tool to take into harm’s way is, and

: : Helmet and accessory guide

projectiles (pistol calibers and frag).

While it’s tempting to fill every

ver time, helmets have

officer what the most important

: : Three helmet setups, outfitted, examined and explained

to stop penetration of certain

consequences.

Text by CHARLES “CHIP” LASKY

01

: : Setting helmets up for use with night vision devices

lose focus and can result in fatal

03

“If you wear a ballistic helmet at work, you probably don’t bake cookies for a living.”

the battlefield. Special Operations

If you wear a ballistic helmet at

weight if it won’t protect you from

work, you probably don’t bake cookies for a living. Threat level

Forces (SOF) started modifying and fielding bump helmets in the ’80s. The thought was that since a ballistic helmet won’t stop a rifle round, and pistol threats are rare for the warfighter, having something to protect your head from the inevitable bumps in the field was good enough. Why carry the extra the threats you face?

Today, as ballistic helmets have

focused on the job at hand. My

should dictate the protection level,

become lighter, bump helmets have

late, great mentor, Pat Rogers,

but you need to balance that with

been largely relegated to military

often professed that “the mission

mobility and comfort. You should not

and law enforcement training

drives the gear train.” This is true

be weighed down or encumbered

applications. But they are still worn

of weapon selection and setup,

with ill-fitting pads and shells to the

during recce and Intelligence,

chest rig or plate carrier layout, the

point where you cannot focus on

Surveillance, and Reconnaissance

contents of a ruck—and notably,

what you’re doing: Making holes in

(ISR) missions, where small teams

the helmet. Whether you’re a

bad guys while keeping them from

must carry a lot of gear for missions

professional gunfighter or casual

doing the same to you.

that last days behind enemy lines.

hog hunter, you need to make

Ballistic helmets are usually

That said, bump helmets are also a

sure the gear you carry into the

rated against the National Institute

popular option for civilian shooters

field does not hinder your ability to

of Justice (NIJ) Level IIIA for law

and hunters who use night vision.

concentrate all your effort on the

enforcement application and can

They provide a stable mounting

mission. Distractions from over-

be constructed from myriad aramid

platform for the cantilevered goggle.

loaded, ill-fitting, or improperly

materials. This means that they

They’re also more affordable than

selected gear can cause you to

pass prescribed laboratory testing

most ballistic options.

UN12mag.com

47

Helmet 01

01

Even those of us in fighting shape are

head because that’s the point of my

manufactured by Crye Precision. It

going to come out of a gunfight or

body that is most likely to be seen

is one of the most advanced pieces

field maneuvers drenched in sweat.

from 360 degrees.

of headgear available and currently

The natural venting allows me to

fielded by several Tier 1 U.S. Special

wear the helmet and exert myself

tenets of gunfighting. So, my radio

the best pads you can get. I can say

Operations Units. It features some

longer. It also provides an escape

headset is very important. Take

without a doubt the Zero G pads

radical departures from traditional

path for blast force concussion from

it from me as someone who has

from 4D Tactical are the best I’ve ever

helmet designs that qualify it as my

IEDs, breaching charges, or other

spent years shoving headsets under

worn. Every manufacturer tells you

“high-end” setup. It’s one of my top

explosions that thump you in the field.

helmets: It sucks and makes your

their pads are the most comfortable, most impact resistant, won’t

vice. When I found

mess up your hair gel, and

Goggle, an up-armored version of the

out I could mount

so on. I’ve heard all the

is a lighter alternative to traditional

ANVIS goggle. This variant is built with

my TCI Liberator

sales pitches. But the Zero

ballistic shells. The old military adage

the latest/greatest L-3 Filmless White

IIs directly to my

“ounces equal pounds, and pounds

Phosphor Gen3 tubes and weighs

helmet, I jumped

equal pain” is especially true of a

about 20 ounces. While not a ton,

at it. Most tactical

experience. It’s a drop-in

helmet. I don’t care how often you go

it’s noticeable after several hours of

communication

replacement for factory

to the gym or how much your neck

constant wear. So steps need to be

headset

pads and makes a world of

resembles a volcano—wearing a

taken to up the comfort factor. The

combat helmet with all the mission-

first step is stability.

As the name suggests, the Airframe

essential accessories of the modern warfighter is going to take its toll.

“The overlapping shell design does not compromise ballistic integrity because it does not leave open any direct exposure to the head.”

The night vision mount is one of can invest in for your goggles. To ensure the goggle stays as steady as possible, I advocate using mounts from Wilcox Industries. Wilcox is a leader in design and manufacturing of some of the best NVG mounts on the market. They have become the choice of most SOF units.

This particular mount is the L4 G24.

The hinge lock keeps the goggle up or down while preventing a bad guy from slamming it down in your face if you go hands-on. The mount is locked onto the helmet via the excellent Wilcox 3-Hole Shroud with retractable lanyard. The lanyard is important event it is struck and knocked off the

manufacturers

good if you can’t keep your lid on for

helmet, or if the operator (in haste)

now offer a

hours at a time.

does not have the goggle fully locked

factory-built helmet

into the mount. Always dummy-cord

mount option.

your NVGs. The weight of the goggle will

I utilized the SARA (Sordin Arc Rail Adapter) from Unity Tactical to

increases the duration it can be worn.

want to make the helmet nosedive.

attach the ear cups to Peltor headset

But that does come at a cost to the

I counter that with the use of the

rail adapters. Its push-to-talk (PTT)

ballistic rating. Instead, the AirFrame

TNVC Mohawk Mk1 on the back of

cable is secured in the Velcro loops of

is designed to defeat threats more

the helmet. The Mohawk contains

the Mohawk when not plugged into

often encountered by the warfighter:

1 pound of removable, flexible lead

the PTT on my plate carrier. Yes, this

blunt impact and frag.

counterweights to offset the weight of

means my comms are married to my

the goggle. It also stores a removable

helmet. But, if I take off my helmet, I

tray of extra batteries.

can just plug in a coil cable ear bud I

The “air” in AirFrame also refers to airflow. It features a two-piece

one to deliver in my

the most important accessories you

because it retains the goggle in the

weight (approximately 2.5 pounds)

G Deluxe kit is the only

difference.

be functional, it won’t do you any

operator comfort. As stated, its light

UN12 / Issue 001

This helmet is outfitted with the

While everything on your helmet may

I like the AirFrame for its focus on

48

wear a helmet you should invest in

TNVC TNV/Sentinel Night Vision

gunfighters.

Configured for professional warfighter applications

Communication is one of the three

The biggest comfort upgrade to any helmet is a good pad set. If you

head feel like it’s in a

recommendations for professional

Crye Precision AirFrame Ballistic Helmet

secondary red light, I’m good to go.

The AirFrame Ballistic Helmet is

keep in my sleeve pocket to the PTT

shell design peculiar to this helmet.

The Mohawk tail holds my Core

The overlapping shell design does

Survival HEL-STAR 6 infrared strobe.

not compromise ballistic integrity

IR strobes are very important and

because it does not leave open any

should be worn on the head. They

needed in the field. I like the Princeton

direct exposure to the head. What it

mark your location to friendly aerial

Tec MPLS Charge Pro and have one

does is promote more airflow. Combat

assets so you don’t accidentally end

mounted to the left side of my helmet.

is a very physically demanding sport.

up eating a gun run. I want it on my

With a 100-lumen white light and

on my plate carrier.

Personal task lighting is always

UN12mag.com

49

Helmet 01

01

02

03

04

05

06

Crye Precision AirFrame Ballistic Helmet

Crye Precision AirFrame Helmet Cover (modified)

TNVC Mohawk Mk1 Counterweight

Crye Precision AirFrame Helmet Rails

MSRP: $844

MSRP: $50

MSRP: $69

TCI Liberator II Tactical Headset w/ Integrated Hearing Protection

4D Tactical Zero G DELUXE Retrofit Combat Liner

URL: cryeprecision.com

URL: cryeprecision.com

URL: tnvc.com

MSRP: $835 URL: safariland.com

MSRP: $43 URL: cryeprecision.com

MSRP: $110 URL: 4dtactical.com

03

02

04

01

05

07 08

Crye Precision AirFrame Ballistic Helmet

09

MSRP as equipped: $12,266

10

12

11

50

UN12 / Issue 001

06

07

08

09

10

11

12

Wilcox L4 G24 Night Vision Mount

Core Survival HEL-STAR 6 Strobe

Princeton Tec Charge PRO — MLPS (White/Red LED)

Princeton Tec ABR Mount

3M Peltor ARC Adapters for COMTAC Headset

MSRP: $463

MSRP: $168

TNVC TNV/Sentinel Gen3 Filmless White Phosphor Night Vision Goggle (fitted w/ Dovetail Interface)

URL: wilcoxind.com

URL: coresurvival.com

MSRP: $9,250 URL: tnvc.com

MSRP: $110 URL: princetontec.com

MSRP: $20 URL: princetontec.com

MSRP: $62 URL: peltorcomms.3m.com UN12mag.com

51

02

Helmet 02 on the ground for gunships, they

a huge output relative to its size. A

stop projectiles, nor do they need

interesting features is its no-holes

may very well need to communicate

helmet light is a must. The camera is

to be. Many threats faced on the

shell design. All built-in accessories

their position with aerial platforms

there to record training maneuvers

battlefield (as well as those emerging

are attached with T-nuts that lock onto

providing sniper support or aiding in a

or mission footage that can be

for domestic law enforcement) are

undercuts. That means that the rails

fugitive hunt.

admissible in court.

not going to be defeated by most

and chinstrap do not require ballistic

common ballistic helmets. The

hardware. It also means that the shell

is also important. Hell, it’s important

reflective patches on all sides. These

obvious things notwithstanding,

is arguably stronger due to the lack of

for ballistic helmets, but critical

patches will glow brightly through

one of the biggest killers is more

secondary holes being drilled into it.

on bumps. Because the

Not all helmets are designed to

intangible: fatigue. And one of the

interrogated with an IR light source. They are known as

ill-fitting, heavy gear.

M-LOK slots for accessory mounting.

the NVG is going to

IFF (Identification: Friend/

Adding it to a helmet is interesting

have less resistance

helmets? Weight savings. An operator

because the solid lockup means

to nosediving. Even a

be used during nighttime

who is not overly burdened will

that the accessory will not break free

lightweight NVG like

operations as a quick way to

more quickly recognize, process,

of the helmet if caught or snagged.

the PVS-14 (12 ounces)

identify a blue force through

and engage threats because his full

However, the polymer rail bolts that

is going to pull on the

NVGs when they’re out of

attention is on the mission.

secure the rail to the helmet will give

helmet. Counterweight is

positive ID range.

way because they are not hardened

important to help reduce

my favorites is the FLUX Carbon-S

steel ballistic hardware, allowing

from MTEK. Its shell is made of

the entire rail to break free without

carbon fiber, allowing the whole

compromising the helmet’s integrity. police officer with rural tasking. The

MTEK conducted anthropomorphic

centerpiece is a TNV/PVS-14 night-

research when designing the shape

vision monocular with L-3 Gen3 image tube. This is a great choice for LE agencies that do not have a budget to outfit their SWAT teams with dual-tube goggles. The PVS-14 is the standardissue NVG for U.S. infantry units and has been to date combat-proven many times over.

The FLUX Carbon-S comes standard with a Wilcox 3-Hole Shroud installed, and I’ve again mounted the Wilcox L4 G24 in it. The PVS14 is easily adapted to the dovetail

of this helmet. The curvature of the

interface on the G24 with the Wilcox

back follows that of the human skull,

PVS-14 arm. I like this arm more than

strain on certain

effectively tucking the shell under the

the standard-issue J-Arm because

muscles in the neck

head and allowing the wearer to more

it’s straight, keeping the goggle from

and traps.

easily conduct the simple movements

coming all the way back to the eye.

of looking up or going prone. This

This creates more airflow between

KNUCKL modular helmet accessory

geometry further helps to stabilize the

the face and diopter lens and helps

system to the left side of the helmet.

helmet on the head without requiring

mitigate fogging during dynamic

I try to bias my small accessories to

any internal adjustment mechanisms.

action. It also kicks the goggle out

my non-dominate side because they

In fact, the FLUX is one of the only

further for much better interface with

are less likely to interfere with my

helmets I have found that does

a gas mask.

right-handed weapon operation. The

not require me to add any special

Foe) patches and should

This helmet has been set up for a

NVG shroud) to weigh only 2 pounds.

“The bottom line is that operators are more effective when they are lighter and faster.”

UN12 / Issue 001

night vision goggles when

bump helmet is going to naturally weigh less,

system (shell, liner, rails, chinstrap,

52

The helmet also features IR

Ops-Core ARC profile and present

Enter the Bump Helmet. One of

Configured for law enforcement applications

The rails depart from the traditional

Counterweight on a bump helmet

biggest physical distractions can be What does this have to do with

MTEK FLUX Carbon-S Helmet

Another of the MTEK helmet’s

The back of the helmet features the

I’ve mounted a Unity Tactical

KNUCKL conveniently allows me to

tensioning devices while using NVGs.

TNVC Mohawk Mk1. I’ve attached a

attach to mission-critical items on a

Carbon-fiber shells feature higher

Core Survival HEL-STAR 5 IR/visible

modular platform. It’s a well-thought-

tensile strength, more impact

strobe to the Mohawk tail and secured

out accessory that securely mounts

resistance, and do not flex compared

it with the shock cord net. The HEL-

to a variety of helmet rails and has

to their polymer cousins. This is why

STAR 5 is an excellent low-profile

modular attachment points that

I will choose a carbon-fiber bump

strobe that has easy-to-use controls.

interface with a variety of devices.

helmet over plastic for any kind of

It’s important for law enforcement

tactical mission. They are jump and

and first responders to have IR/visible

a Surefire XC-1 and Contour video

high-angle rated, providing more

strobes on their helmets. Even though

camera on the KNUCKL. The XC-1

protection from impact.

they don’t need to mark their position

is an excellent low-profile light with

Since we’re talking LE, I’ve placed

UN12mag.com

53

Helmet 02 0

01

02

03

04

05

06

MTEK FLUX Carbon-S Bump Helmet

CeJay Engineering 1x1” IR Reflective Patch

CeJay Engineering 1x2” IR Reflective Blood Type Patch

TNVC Mohawk Mk1 Counterweight

Core Survival HEL-STAR 5 Strobe

MSRP: $698

MSRP: $2

MSRP: $7

Perroz Designs IR Reflective American Flag Mini Velcro Patch

MSRP: $69

MSRP: $135

URL: mtekusa.com

URL: cejayengineering.com

URL: cejayengineering.com

URL: tnvc.com

URL: coresurvival.com

MSRP: $20 URL: perrozdesigns.com

07 Wilcox L4 G24 Night Vision Mount MSRP: $463 URL: wilcoxind.com

03

02

04

05

06

01

08 07

09

MTEK FLUX Carbon-S 13

MSRP as equipped: $6,360 12 11 10

08 14

First Spear Call Sign IR Cell Tag MSRP: $19 URL: first-spear.com

09

10

11

12

13

14

TNVC TNV/PVS-14 Gen3 Filmless White Phosphor Night Vision Monocular

Wilcox PVS-14 Adapter Arm

TNVC TM14 Mk3 PVS-14 Weapon Mount

Unity Tactical KNUCKL Helmet Accessory Mount

Contour+2 Video Camera

MSRP: $204

MSRP: $89

MSRP: $65

SureFire XC1 Ultra Compact LED Handgun Light

URL: wilcoxind.com

URL: tnvc.com

URL: unitytactical.com

MSRP: $4,020 URL: tnvc.com

54

UN12 / Issue 001

MSRP: $269

MSRP: $300 URL: contour.com

URL: surefire.com UN12mag.com

55

03

Helmet 03 Our third helmet setup is based on the

polymer, it meets many hazardous

This is an excellent and very durable

necessity to make sure all members of

Ops-Core FAST Bump platform, and

duty standards and has the same

personal light marker that can be

the party are thoroughly marked and

assembled with the civilian shooting

features as the more expensive

used for distress signaling or simply

easily identifiable through NVGs and

enthusiast and nighttime hunter in

ballistic model.

marking yourself after the hunt while

with the naked eye. The helmet is the

the animals are recovered. It’s a

perfect place to mark since it is most

mind. The focus here is simplicity, light weight, and budget. From a

setup because all these features come

silicone-covered LED with an internal

likely to be the highest point on the

civilian’s perspective, the main reason

at a very attractive price. Yes, there are

battery, completely waterproof, and

body and visible from all directions.

to purchase a tactical helmet is to

cheaper bump helmets available, but

flexible to fit the contour of the helmet

use it as an NVG mounting platform.

let’s keep the mission in mind: night

surface. The sides of the helmets

Sure, there are plenty of civilians

vision. When you’re cantilevering an

have 1” military glint tape. This

who invest in ballistic helmets and

expensive night vision goggle off the

further adds personal marking

high-end carbon-fiber shells. But the

front of your head, you want to make

capability.

majority of civilian night vision users

sure it’s secure, both from moving

are hunters. They don’t care about

around and from falling off. The FAST

and rewarding activity. But it

looking like operators and have no

design incorporates some of the

tremendously increases the

need for ballistic protection or the

best stability features on the market.

danger level. Animals that

weight that comes with it. But they do

Nobody wants to have their hunt

are hunted at night are

need a stable mount for their NVGs

ruined by an NVG that won’t stay in

known to be aggressive

because night vision hunting is just so

front of your eye.

and in some cases

damn fun.

Even though hunting is not a tactical

tube. Built using the same mil-spec housing as its Gen3 brother, the Gen2

dangers. Plenty of people trip and

model is a more affordable American-

fall in the woods while hunting during

made NVG. It’s attached to the helmet

the day. View the world through a

with a Wilcox L4 G11 Army Mount.

UN12 / Issue 001

This is the current standard-issue mount for the U.S. Army for the PVS14 and accepts the standard issue J-Arm adapter.

The mount locks into the helmet via a molded-in shroud on the front. While it is cost effective, I’m not a huge fan of this feature. It certainly locks the mount in place, but I don’t like the shroud being plastic while the mount is metal. But metal-to-metal contact would add cost and complexity.

40-degree NVG with fixed-plain focus

Overall, the molded shroud is strong

and little experience and you will most

enough to secure the NVG for most

they’ve been

likely fall on your ass or walk into a

applications, and the other features of

known to attack.

few tree branches. A helmet to protect

the helmet more than make up for any

But the biggest

your head from these bumps is a good

perceived shortcomings.

danger can come from within the

Further security is added for the

hunting party.

There are a lot of very skilled and

helmet is going to provide much better

NVG via the TNVC Base Jump

stability over a wider surface area than

Lanyard. This assembly uses a Wilcox

safe night vision hunters. But they

a soft head mount. For these reasons,

retractable lanyard on a strap system

often bring friends and family with

I always suggest a helmet for night

that secures to the helmet via hook/

them into the field to participate.

vision mounting, unless the mission

loop fastener on the inside of the shell.

Putting a loaded rifle in the hands of

dictates otherwise.

Again, if you don’t dummy-cord your

a novice comes with its own risks

NVG, you’re a dummy. The TNVC

and requires close supervision by

tactical helmets more than a decade

Mohawk Mk1 is secured to the helmet

the initiated. Add another layer of

ago and has risen to be the biggest

shell by adding some adhesive-

complexity with darkness and night

name in special operations head

backed Velcro that can be found at

vision, and the possibility of accidents

protection. Their FAST (Future Assault

any hardware store.

increases dramatically.

Ops-Core set the standard for

56

is an NGI/PVS-14 with a Gen2 image

can bring with it some unintended

idea. What’s more, the rigid nature of a

Configured for civilians and nighttime hunters

Night vision hunting is a fun

The night vision goggle in question

operation, hunting with night vision

“The FAST Bump represents a great featureto-cost ratio that has wide appeal.”

Ops-Core FAST Bump Helmet

I chose this helmet for a civilian

Civilians can certainly purchase IR

As with all hunting, the number-

tested helmet lines available. The

strobe lights, but they’re not needed

one priority of the group is safety.

FAST Bump represents a great

for hunting applications. Instead of

Accidents happen and positive ID of

feature-to-cost ratio that has wide

the traditional IR strobe, I’ve opted

targets can be more difficult for novice

appeal. Molded from a high-impact

to attach an S&S Precision V-Lite.

night vision users. So, it is an absolute

Shell Technology) is one of the most

UN12mag.com

57

Helmet 03

01

02

03

04

05

Ops-Core FAST Bump Helmet

PVS-14 J-Arm

TNVC Mohawk Mk1 Counterweight

Night Goggles Inc. NGI/PVS-14 Gen2+ Night Vision Monocular

Wilcox L4 G11 Night Vision Mount

MSRP: $89

MSRP: $270

MSRP: $69

URL: tnvc.com

URL: ops-core.com

MSRP: $2,125

URL: tnvc.com

URL: nightgoggles.com

MSRP: $300 URL: wilcoxind.com

02 03

04 01

05

10

Ops-Core FAST Bump Helmet

06

MSRP as equipped: $3,066

08

07

09

58

UN12 / Issue 001

06

07

08

09

10

Princeton Tec Charge — MPLS

TNVC Base Jump Lanyard System

Glint Tape

S&S Precision V-Lite

MSRP: $73

MSRP: $40

2017 Limited Edition TNVC Patch

MSRP: $100

MSRP: varies

URL: princetontec.com

URL: tnvc.com

URL: available at military surplus stores

URL: sandsprecision.com

MSRP: N/A URL: tnvc.com UN12mag.com

59

Feature

reedmoor, Camp Perry and Bisley, to the American

the 7.62x51mm NATO, essentially a cousin to the .308.

rifleman, these places hold a special meaning.

They are cousins, not twins but they are interchangeable.

Bisley is the British shooting center south west of London,

The .308/7.62 NATO is slightly lighter in weight, nearly as

England, a historic and amazing place. Camp Perry is the

powerful, and is a shorter cartridge than the .30-60. The

Bisley equivalent in the United States, located near the

change was soon made to 7.62 NATO and the M14 Rifle

Great Lakes in Ohio. Creedmoor? Isn’t Creedmoor in Long

began being issued to the US Army in 1957, replacing the

Island, New York a mental hospital? Indeed, Creedmoor is

.30-06 chambered M1 Garand.

C

currently a psychiatric center, but it wasn’t always that way.

Conversations around the campfire when I was young

In 1872, the NRA purchased 70 acres of farmland

were that the .308 Winchester was a decent cartridge, but

from Mr. Creed to establish a National shooting center to

not quite up to the power of the .30-06. Cartridge efficiency

hold shooting competitions, officially opening in 1873.

was lost on the layman shooter but it was not lost on the true

Creedmoor is a contraction of the name Creed and moor,

rifleman. During this period (the mid-1960s), competitive

moor meaning an open infertile piece of ground or a marshy

riflemen were in transition from the tried-and-true .30-06 to

boggy area. The Creedmoor facility became famous in

the .308 and the 7.62 NATO.

Creedmoor Observations of a long-range riffleman

1876 when it became the venue for The Great Centennial

For those growing up in the 1960s and 1970s, our fathers

Rifle Match as part of the celebration of the 100th year

were the men who fought World War II. These men grew up

Text by MICHAEL FURRER

anniversary of the independence of the United States. This

during the depression, a mere 60 years after Custer’s Battle

Illustrations by ALLEN TSAI

match is now called the Palma Trophy Match.

on the Little Big Horn. They had few luxuries growing up and

“Creedmoor is a contraction of the name Creed and moor, moor meaning an open infertile piece of ground or a marshy boggy area.”

their parents had even fewer. With few resources available

CARTRIDGE EVOLUTION

to them when it came time to choose a rifle cartridge, they

There are many types of rifles and cartridges available in

were most likely to choose what they served in the military

the United States, but to understand the rate of change

with, the .30-06. In those days, if you spoke of the ideal

in bullet and cartridge design it’s illustrative to have an

cartridge, the cartridge that would “do it all” would most

understanding of history. During World War I, the primary

likely be .30-06; in that generation’s view, you needed

rifle of the U.S. infantryman was the M1917 Enfield in .30-

nothing else. It wasn’t necessarily about cartridge efficiency

06. The .30-06 caliber rifle remained the infantry’s primary

but more about what was familiar, robust and available.

rifle cartridge through World War II and the Korean War, and

: : Evolution of the long-range precision cartridge : : 6.5 Creedmoor is the modern precision rifle caliber : : Quickly gaining in popularity among precision shooters

it saw some action in the Vietnam War. Today, the .30-06

COMPETITION CALIBER

remains one of the most popular hunting cartridges and is

To fully grasp the rate of change in modern cartridge

ranked in the Top Ten by Petersen’s Hunting magazine.

design, it’s important to look at modern civilian long

The popularity of a cartridge in civilian hunting circles can

range competitions. The Palma Trophy Match Cartridge is

be the result of many things: popular press, prior military

determined by the match governing body and rulebook. In

service of the user, family history and effectiveness. For the

NRA Long Range and modern Precision Rifle Series and

military, cartridge selection is more likely due to national and

similar matches, it’s nearly wide open with the shooter

international politics, logistics, weight, cost—and finally,

frequently fielding the most efficient cartridge available. A

effectiveness.

recent development in competitions has been the Precision

Soon after World War II, the U.S. Military began

Rifle Series (PRS) and other longrange field type matches.

developing a cartridge that would be more efficient than

These PRS and field precision matches are not usually

the .30-06 for squad-level automatic weapons and a new

held on square ranges; the shooter can find himself or

infantryman’s rifle. It was also important that this cartridge

herself in any manner of compromised shooting position

was acceptable to our NATO allies and would be adopted

(not just prone)—and you don’t get sighting shots, it’s

as their service rifle cartridge.

game on from the first round down the tube. The genesis of this type of field match is the Army’s international sniper

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UN12 / Issue 001

.308 WINCHESTER

competitions held at Fort Benning, Georgia. Gunsmiths,

In 1952, the civilian market was introduced to the .308

shooters and rifle manufacturers all over the United States

Winchester. The .308 Winchester has an overall length

are busy imagining, discussing, developing and building

of 2.8 inches and requires a short action. In comparison,

modern-day cartridges that eclipse the performance of

the .30-06 has an overall cartridge length of 3.34 inches

what was available even 20 years ago.

and requires a long action. Soon after the introduction of

The development of wildcat cartridges isn’t new. It’s been

the .308, the military introduced its version of the round,

happening ever since the very first metallic cartridge went

UN12mag.com

61

into production. The 6.5-284 and the .260 Remington

When selecting a cartridge and bullet for competition,

1990’s. I have personal experience with both. The .260

I pay special attention to wind deflection. It’s also

Remington is a necked down .308 Winchester and

reasonable to consider elevation changes, but with

the 6.5-284 is a necked down .284 Winchester. The

modern laser rangefinders and ballistic software,

reasoning behind necking down cartridge cases is

smaller elevation changes between cartridges are

to be able to use long, aerodynamic high ballistic

less critical than wind effects. In reality, if a bullet and

coefficient (BC) bullets, in a standardized case.

velocity combination is affected less by wind, there is

There is real world efficiency in the combination of relatively high case capacity, long aerodynamic

probably less in elevation changes between targets at various distances also.

bullets in a short action. I enjoyed my time

An example of wind deflection is as follows,

competing with the 6.5-284. The slender 140-grain

straight off my ballistic cards. Adjustments to

6.5 bullet in this cartridge has about the same

MOA from Mil for the reader. At 600 yards, 20 mph

muzzle velocity as the .300 Winchester Magnum

wind, my 130-grain 6.5 Norma bullet at 2,850 feet

(another cartridge I would use in competition), with

per second (fps) will require a 7 MOA change in

less wind deflection and substantially less recoil

windage to stay on target. At the same distance, 20 mph wind, my 175-grain .308 Sierra Matchking at

As a rifle coach, I teach new shooters to mind

a velocity of 2,725 fps will need a wind correction

their followthrough. It is nearly impossible to

of 9.5 MOA, which is nearly a 36% difference,

control recoil with a .300 Win Mag, firing 200 grain

under the same conditions.

bullets, and be able to get back on the target to see

Not even considering recoil impulse, these

bullet splash. The 6.5-284 provides a substantial

differences add up in the field, especially when

improvement in recoil control, with similar muzzle

exact measurements of the wind are not available.

down, in the middle of the season while the gunsmith is making the change, is worrisome. Even after the barrel is replaced, the shooter needs to review and revise his ballistic data; this takes time during a busy shooting season.

The advent of the .260 Remington as a production cartridge came in 1997 and it made some big improvements in the weaknesses of the .300 Win Mag and the 6.5-284. With the .260 Remington, you’re not likely to get the same velocity, but you can shoot the efficient 6.5mm bullets in a short action. You’ll have substantially less recoil impulse with barrels that last somewhere around 2,500 to 3,000 rounds, depending on load, bullet and rate of fire.

6.5 CREEDMOOR The 6.5 Creedmoor was introduced in 2007. The goal of the Creedmoor cartridge developers was mission-specific to longrange target shooting. Similar to the .260 Remington, you get to use efficient 6.5 bullets, which feature high ballistic coefficients, heavy for their caliber bullets and sufficient powder capacity. The

points for a first round hit.

I personally have transitioned my primary competition rifles to 6.5 Creedmoor. It’s a fantastic cartridge in a short-action receiver. The cartridge I shoot is the Prime Ammunition in 6.5 Creedmoor with a 130-grain Norma bullet, at a velocity of approximately 2,850 fps. During a recent team match in Montana, we struggled on a particularly difficult stage but a first round hit on a 1,300-yard target using the Prime ammunition got us back in the game.

FURTHER DEVELOPMENT

It seems as though Moore’s law is still in effect. At local PRS matches and other competitions, new cartridges and riflecartridge combinations are continually appearing, many in the 6.5 and 6mm calibers. I don’t want to chase what is the latest and greatest, but I do want to know what the competition is using.

Today’s rifleman is far better equipped and more skilled than at any time in human history—it is absolutely amazing what we see in competitions. In my safe at home, I have my two 6.5 Creedmoor rifles, but right next to the two 6.5s you’ll find a similarly built .308, and just behind these three you’ll find fine walnut-furnished civilian

resulting benefits include excellent recoil

equivalent of the M21 rifle that started my

management with a muzzle velocity and

long range shooting career. [ UN12 ]

UN12 / Issue 001

Note to Ti, this one is Creedmoor, the hero of this article.

gets expensive. Plus your gun being

these field matches, the shooter gets more

Ti, this is all I have for CREED. I’m hoping you can get creative and use these illiustrations in multiple different ways.

Feel free to use the outlines too for use in the background or as design elements, maybe?

1,200-1,500 rounds during a season

probability goes way up, and at many of

6.5 Creedmoorv

rich man, and replacing barrels after

“I’m not a poor man nor am I a rich man, replacing barrels after 1,200-1,500 rounds during a season gets expensive, plus your gun being down, in the middle of the season while the gunsmith is making the change is worrisome.”

Note to Ti, this one is .308 WInchester, the round that Creedmoor is overtaking as more popular lately.

I’m not a poor man, but nor am I a

a .308 175-grain bullet, your first round hit

.308 Winchester

284 is barrel wear.

With a 36% decrease in wind deflection over

Ti, this is all I have for CREED. I’m hoping you can get creative and use these illiustrations in multiple different ways.

Feel free to use the outlines too for use in the background or as design elements, maybe?

.300 Win Mag and even more so with the 6.5-

Note to Ti, this one is .308 WInchester, the round that Creedmoor is overtaking as more popular lately.

velocity and trajectory. A big issue with both the

Note to Ti, this one is Creedmoor, the hero of this article.

impulse.

62

bullet trajectory similar to that of the .300 Win Mag.

were brought into production from wildcats in the late

The venerable .308 WIN is slowly being overtaken by 6.5 Creedmoor as the rifle round of choice for many long range shooters.

A visual side by side comparison of a 6.5 Creedmoor cartridge (left) and a .308 WIN cartridge (right).

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63

Feature

Custom Remington Text by MARTIN ANDERS Images by MICHAEL GREY

: : Based on Remington Model 700 : : Chambered in .300 AAC Blackout

“Inspired by end-of-theworld survival —or the rise of the zombie hoards, whichever comes first.”

: : 16.5-inch Barrel

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UN12 / Issue 001

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65

FEATURE

E

very build has a purpose. Sometimes a rifle is

some time after whatever happens, happens.

built for a very specific purpose, such as one

Separately, he is also a firearms enthusiast who

intended to take down big game at distance. Other

enjoys outfitting rifles and handguns to suit his

builds may need to cover a variety of shooting tasks

needs, whether it’s for simple target practice or

such as one for the short- and long-range demands

combating hoards of zombies. Combine the two

of three-gun competitions. The Remington 700 you

interests, and you get the creative spark that created

see here was built with a different scenario in mind.

this rifle.

It was inspired by end-of-the-world survival—or the rise of zombie hoards, whichever comes first.

Before we get way off course, we’d like to clarify that Mitch knows that zombies aren’t really a thing.

Sometimes when people mention zombies,

(Sorry to crush some dreams out there.) That said,

they use the term as a metaphor for anything but

he really did plan out this rifle with zombies in mind,

zombies. Not Mitch, the builder of this featured rifle.

but figuring that real zombies aren’t about to take

Mitch, like many red-blooded Americans, loves a

over the world anytime soon, he surmised that any

good zombie flick. He grew up during the golden

rifle that can take out zombies would be just as

age of zombie movies, watching late ’60s and ’70s

effective on real-life threats—especially those in an

classics such as George A. Romero’s “Night of

all-out, fend-for-yourself doomsday scenario. His

the Living Dead” and “Dawn of the Dead.” More

inspiration may be unconventional and mixed with

recent movies such as “28 Days Later” and even the

a of bit tongue-in-cheek humor, but it did lead to an

comedic “Zombieland” can be found in his Blu-ray

interesting build.

collection. It was during an all-day “The Walking

Remington #84205

The Luth-AR MBA-3’s cheek rest adds as much as one-inch of vertical adjustment

The part number for Remington’s Model 700 SPS chambered in 300BLK is 84205. Out of the box, its barrel is threaded in 5/8”24 to accept a wide variety of muzzle devices and sound suppressors.

As we mentioned earlier, Mitch is a gun guy who

Dead” marathon when he came up with the idea that

loves assembling and modifying firearms.

fueled the build showcased here.

As a result, he has found himself

Mitch considers himself a survival-minded person

Cheeky

with quite a few spare

who tries to anticipate survival scenarios that others

rifle parts lying

might not find obvious. He’s got bug-out bags

around the

stashed in strategic locations, electronics stowed in Faraday containers, and a stockpile of supplies that can keep himself, his family and his

garage, just begging

equipment fed and fueled for quite

to be used. (We can relate.) It was while watching an episode of “The Walking Dead” that he came up with the idea (and

times. In an end-of-the-world survival situation,

urge) to build an ultra-quiet precision rifle capable

Mitch imagines that this scenario would be true of

of accurate short-to-medium distance shots for

non-zombie marauders too. Stealth and keeping a

overwatch duties in an urban environment.

low profile are important to survival.

If you’ve been living under a rock or aren’t a horror

Realizing that he had the perfect donor gun

geek, we’ll get you up to speed on made-for-TV

and enough spare parts to form the basis of an

zombies. The ones in The Walking Dead TV show are

accurate, quiet-shooting rifle, he got the itch to start

attracted to loud noises, so getting a shot off often

assembling. He took his Remington Model 700

draws the attention of the undead masses—and

SPS Tactical, chambered in the hard-hitting and

according to the show, at the most inopportune

suppressor-friendly .300 AAC Blackout cartridge,

“Mitch imagines that much of his scenario would be true of nonzombie marauders too. Stealth and keeping a low profile are important to survival.”

Wrapped While the Griffon Industries HMMS’ inner core is virtually indestructible, its replaceable nylon cover is a consumable part will deteriorate under heavy use.

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UN12 / Issue 001

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67

FEATURE

Optic When zoomed out, the Vortex Strike Eagle has a true 1x view that allows shooters a wide, undistorted view. When needed, it’s 8x magnified view allows for engagement at extended ranges.

and stripped it down to its barrel, action and trigger

attach collar system that allows it to be quickly

assembly.

taken on and off a SureFire muzzle device. SureFire

The 700’s carbon steel barrel measures 16.5

does make a 300BLK-specific silencer, which

inches in length, which is shorter than most out-of-

should make the rifle even quieter, but Mitch was

the-box 700s, and is rifled in a 1:7 twist rate. It may

working within the confines of what he already

feel short, but the barrel’s length and twist are proper

had. It is something he’s considering for the future.

for the 300BLK cartridges it’s chambered for.

To keep the suppressor from burning anything it

Mitch also intended the build to have

touches, he uses a Griffon Industries Heat &

a shorter overall length to be able

Mirage Mitigation System (HMMS) suppressor

to move in and out of the urban landscape he lives in more easily.

Keeping shots as quiet as possible is an important factor in this build. Luckily, Mitch already has a SureFire

cover.

The HMMS minimizes contact burns from the scorching hot suppressor and has saved his skin a few times already.

He immediately did

About Cadex Defense Headquartered in Quebec, Canada, Cadex doesn’t only make rifle chassis like the one seen here.

They also supply military units and law enforcement departments with everything from complete precision rifles to high-end surveillance kits and various breaching tools.

chassis systems, Mitch utilized a Tactical Core model for this rifle. Compared to other models, this naked chassis comes stripped down and is ready to be fully customized. The Remington’s barreled action mates to four rollers in the chassis’ bed that Cadex claims reduce barrel vibrations and help provide a stable platform.

The Tactical Core is magazine fed, taking Accuracy International (AI) compatible magazines.

SOCOM762-RC2 sound

away with the factory

In Mitch’s case, he chose to use MDT’s short-

suppressor in his inventory,

stock in favor of a

action AICS polymer mags for their light weight

which works with 300BLK and

modular chassis. Being

and affordability. Interestingly, the chassis can be

other 7.62mm calibers. Used in

a fan of Cadex Defense’s

fitted with any number of differently shaped internal

conjunction with subsonic ammunition, the

magazine sleeves in case you wanted to use it with

rifle promises to shoot without attracting the

different caliber actions. The chassis’ aluminum

attention of nearby walkers.

base is detachable for ease of trigger maintenance

The suppressor is equipped with a fast-

without the need for action removal, eliminating the possibility of losing your optic’s zero.

A full-length 20 MOA top rail allows for not only optics mounting, but lasers and other accessories as

Rainier Munitions 300BLK Subsonic Avid firearms enthusiasts already know that Rainier Arms is a go-to source for quality guns and top-tier gun accessories, but some may not be aware that they are now also in the business of manufacturing and selling their own line of ammunition too.

Offered under the Rainer Munitions brand name, the ammunition is domestically made in the Pacific Northwest and is available in the most popular calibers. Pistol calibers include 9mm, .45 ACP and even 10mm, while rifle calibers include .308 Winchester, .223 Remington, and .300 AAC Blackout.

Many of the cartridges are offered in different bullet weights and some ammunition is offered in new or remanufactured options to help keep shooters’ costs down.

Rainier Munitions’ subsonic 300BLK was a perfect companion for the custom 700 featured in the accompanying article for its subsonic properties and accurate performance.

Their 300BLK subsonics feature factory-new Rainier Arms brass and quality .300 AAC Blackout-sized Hornady 280-grain A-MAX subsonic projectiles, all packed with clean-burning powder. Visit rainierarms.com to learn more.

well. The forend features a unique Cadex accessory attachment pattern and is not M-LOK, though it looks reminiscent of it. The chassis does come with Picatinny rail for the 3, 6, and 9 o’clock placements.

Sitting on top of the top rail is a Vortex Optics Strike Eagle 1-8x24 riflescope. He specifically chose this scope for its quality glass, durable build and price point. At a retail price of $570, you’d be hard pressed to find a similar scope in terms of clarity and quality.

Mitch figured in the confines of the big city that he lives in, he wouldn’t have much use for a longerrange scope. That and the chosen caliber are both

“Used in conjunction with subsonic ammunition, the rifle promises to shoot without attracting the attention of nearby walkers.”

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UN12 / Issue 001

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69

FEATURE

suited for a mid-range precision setup.

The 30mm Strike Eagle optic features an illuminated reticle and utilizes a second focal plane for quick and accurate range, holdover and wind

notes that he likes the positive lock-up for when he shoots off barricades.

As of the time of this writing, the rifle uses the

drift corrections. The scope sits in a pair of medium-

standard Remington X-Mark Pro trigger with a

height A.R.M.S. #22 Throw Lever 30mm rings. Mitch

measured pull weight of 3 pounds, 8 ounces.

has had great success with these quick-detach

Although the trigger is adjustable, Mitch said he

mounts in the past and he wanted to stick with gear

plans on installing a Timney drop-in trigger as a

he already trusts.

further upgrade.

The Cadex chassis accepts an AR buffer tube, and

After taking it to the range and firing a combination

hence any AR-15 compatible stock, as well as a full

of Rainier Munitions 300BLK 208-grain Amax Match

range of AR pistol grips. He chose to run a Magpul

Subsonic and SIG Sauer 300BLK 220-grain Elite

K2+ pistol grip and a Luth-AR MBA-3 Carbine stock.

Match Grade OTM rounds, Mitch reports that his

The choice of installing a K2+ grip is a curious one

groupings are hitting consistently sub-MOA groups

since that grip was designed for much shorter length

with both types of ammo. Unfortunately, there

Personal Defense Weapons (PDWs), not precision

wasn’t a way to measure the sound output with it

bolt guns. Although the grip is intended for use on

suppressed, but he did also mention that he shot the

PDWs, he felt that it has a comfortable grip angle and

rifle without ear pro and had no discomfort.

liked the grippiness of the rubber overmold and went

Future plans include the aforementioned drop-in

with it. For it to fit the chassis perfectly, he had to cut

trigger and a custom Cerakote scheme—after he

down the top of the backstrap.

figures out in what color he wants it sprayed. In

As for the Luth-AR stock, he originally bought it

addition, he’s interested in making the stock foldable

for its unique design. Now it’s paying dividends on

to cut down overall length for transport and getting

this build due to its multiple adjustment points. The

that 300BLK-dedicated suppressor.

compact MBA-3 slides onto an AR’s carbine buffer

Proving that not all custom builds need to be flashy

tube but maintains all of the adjustability of longer

or packed with one-off unobtanium parts, Mitch has

and heavier precision rifle stocks.

assembled a simple but effective rifle that covers

Up front, Mitch went with an Atlas Bipod for its

his goal of reduced sound and short to mid-range

renowned strength, easy-to-use ergonomics, and

precision shots. Regardless of what may come, the

dependable reliability. It is attached to the 6 o’clock

end of the world or a zombie flick marathon, with

Picatinny rail by way of an attached American

suppressed precision rifle in hand, Mitch is ready for

Defense Manufacturing 170-S lever quick-detach

whatever comes his way. [ UN12 ]

Chassis Cadex offers this Tactical Core chassis as a “naked” model, ready to deck out however you see fit.

70

mount. He’s been using this bipod for years and

UN12 / Issue 001

“His groupings are hitting consistently sub-MOA groups with both types of ammo.”

: : OWNER Mitch P. : : OCCUPATION Pilot : : SPECIAL THANKS “My wife and my dog.”

UN12

E X P L O D E D

Mitch P.’s Custom Remington Model 700 SPS

VIEW

Specification: Base Rifle: Remington Model 700 SPS Caliber: 300BLK Chassis: Cadex Defense Tactical Core, Aluminum Trigger: X-Mark Pro; 3- to 5lb pull Overall Length: 36” – 40” Barrel: 16.5” carbon steel; 1:7 twist

Weight w/ magazine: 12 lbs., 3.4 oz.

Weight w/ magazine + Suppressor: 13 lbs. 6.4 oz.

Accessories: Optic: Vortex Optics Strike Eagle 1-8x24 Scope Rings: A.R.M.S. #22 Throw Lever 30mm Rings Bipod: Atlas Bipod w/ ADM 170-S Lever Grip: Magpul K2+ (modified) Stock: Luth-AR MBA-3 Carbine Stock Muzzle Brake: SureFire SFMB-762-5/8-24 Muzzle Brake Sound Suppressor: SureFire SOCOM762-RC2 Suppressor Cover: Griffon Industries HMMS Magazine: MDT Short Action AICS 10rd Magazine (.223)

72

UN12 / Issue 001

UN0012 / CARTRIDGES FOR WEAPONS, INERT PROJECTILE or CARTRIDGES, SMALL ARMS —

DEPT.

Customization

A Closer Look At The Work Of Danger Close Armament Text by DAVID SERVICE Images by TracerX

A

74

UN12 / Issue 001

s you might have been able to tell, all of us at UN12 are big-time into

But just who is it that does all this customization work? We’ve met a variety

customized guns and gear. If it works

of craftsmen from every walk of life who

and looks better than factory stock,

apply their own spin on pistols. Some of

we’re interested. And there’s probably

them work in their garage simply for their

no other item that is more popular to

own enjoyment, while still others have

customize right now than a pistol. From

taken the art of pistol customization to a

serrated slides to stippled frames and

higher plane, offering their sought-after

everything in-between and beyond, new

services directly to the customization

customized pistols grace your Instagram

service-hungry public.

feed daily and can be seen in action at

We spoke to David Service of Danger

just about every gun range across the

Close Armament about his thoughts on

nation. We dig it.

polymer stippling, why he got into it and

UN12mag.com

75

Customization: Danger Close Armament

01

GRIP WORK

STIPPLING: DCA’s distinctive “Brain Pattern” stippling texture and intricate border work are popular pistol upgrades.

SHOOTER’S CUT

02

04

03

UNDERCUT

BRAIN PATTERN STIPPLING

01

INDEX CUT

02

Glocks, to the next level.

After shooting tens of thousands of rounds collectively between myself and our sponsored shooters and instructors, we’ve done our best

After a few months of training I was making

to address all the main deficiencies of the Glock series pistols and many others. Our guns are

the realization that there were some glaring

easily recognized for our distinctive “Brain

deficiencies in my weapon systems. I thought

Pattern” stippling texture and we have become

the solution to my issue was switching weapon

widely known for our intricate border work on

platforms. Within a few short months I jumped

our frames, where we outline the stippling with a

between numerous platforms and I still wasn’t

defined channel or border. This border technique

what particular modifications he performs and why.

satisfied, so I set out to attempt to address some of

is the most sought-after aspect of our work,

Here’s what he has to say on the subject.

these issues.

but wrongfully so. While the border adds a nice

With a cheap soldering iron from Radio Shack

guns like the one pictured), it does little in the way

you’re thinking: “Oh, here we go.” When many hear

head first into my first victim, a Smith & Wesson

of performance. What truly sets apart our guns are

the word stippling, they tend to think of a helpless

M&P compact in 9mm. The result was surprisingly

the ergonomic enhancements we perform.

polymer-frame handgun senselessly murdered

not as terrible as some may expect, especially

by a soldering iron on the kitchen counter. It’s a

after seeing and reading about some of the horror

know the needs of your clients and the end use of

common reality that has put a bad taste in many

stories floating around on the internet.

your products. Far too often I see stippled guns

That was then, this is now. In less than a decade,

03 INDEX CUT: This additional cut in the trigger guard facilitates a higher grip and acts as a reference notch for your support hand.

aesthetic to our pistols (especially our two-tone

and a Dremel from the local hardware store, I dove

Stippling—not so cut-and-dried. I know what

For any craftsman, it is of utmost importance to

that have me questioning if the person has even

automatically discrediting stippling as something

stippling has gone from haphazardly applying

shot the gun before modifying it—or if the person is

they aren’t a fan of—but boy are they missing out

Marinetex epoxy to an almost bonafide art form.

even a competent shooter at all.

on the good stuff.

I could count on one hand how many people

The first thing you need to do when you’re

were making a living doing full-time grip work on

planning on modifying your gun is to shoot the

texturing when I was in the Army. I was seriously

polymer-framed pistols when I first started and

damn thing. Go out and run it through a class.

dissatisfied with the antiquated pistol training I had

now there are too many great artists to count.

Find the pistol’s shortcomings, find its strengths,

I first got into polymer-frame grip work and

UN12UN12 / Issue / Issue 001 001

specialize in taking polymer pistols, most notably

significant progress and I soon came to

a gun owner’s mouth. It typically leads to them

76 76

“In less than a decade, stippling has gone from haphazardly applying Marinetex epoxy to an almost bonafide art form.”

UNDERCUT: Glock’s undersized factory undercut is addressed by opening up the radius further into the trigger guard in order to alleviate friction on the finger.

become intimately familiar with your firearm. Only

received and I was training as much as my meager

Stippling has exploded in popularity because

junior-enlisted paycheck allowed. Every weekend

of the prevalence of polymer-frame pistols in the

then can you come up with a decisive plan to

I would go to the Wal-Mart and load up on the

market. Yet with all the advancements, the perfect

address any issues. If you skip this first step, you

100-round value packs of Federal 9mm and head to

pistol has still yet to be created, and that’s where

have no scale to quantify your modifications for

my local range.

I step in. We at Danger Close Armament Inc.

improvements.

04 THE SHOOTER’S CUT: This bevel on both sides of the upper inside of the trigger guard allows for less frame interference for those with large hands or wearing gloves.

UN12mag.com

77

Customization: Danger Close Armament

The New Standard for Professional Optic and Accessory Mounting ◆ ◆ ◆ ◆

“Modifications like the ones mentioned help end users extract the most out of their pistols. There’s something so rewarding about picking up a pistol and it just melting into your hand.”

◆ ◆ ◆ ◆

The smoothest functioning, easiest to use QD lever on the market Superior clamping that will not damage or coin the rail surface Multi-facetted adjustment nut for the exact tension required Fully adjustable with no tools required, can adjust to fit rails that are not machined to mil-spec tolerances Precision machined for optimum return to zero performance Lightweight, rugged, hard coat anodized 6061 aluminum Patented QD lever by Elite Defense 100% made in the U.S.A., with MI Lifetime Warranty

MI QD Optic Mount for Trijicon RMR Lower 1/3

#MI-QDRMR-1/3 . . . . . . . . . . . .$90.00

Co-Witness

#MI-QDRMR-CO . . . . . . . . . . . . .$90.00

Low

. . . . . . . .#MI-QDRMR-L

$85.00

MI QD Optic Mount for Trijicon MRO Lower 1/3

#MI-QDMRO-1/3 . . . . . . . . . . . .$90.00

Co-Witness On a Glock pistol, the first thing you’ll notice after an extended range trip is that your middle

fundamental of accuracy.

Another popular modification for Glocks is our

finger is raw around the proximal interphalangeal

“Shooter’s Cut,” which is an adaption of the Glove

(middle) joint. You’ll commonly see Glock shooters

Bevel developed by Ben Simonson of stippling

with athletic tape around that joint, but there is a

lore. The cut is a relief for your trigger finger on

much better, more permanent fix. Undercutting of

the inside of the trigger guard that reduces frame

the trigger guard is the most basic and common

interference with the finger to help the shooter get

modification on a Glock. Usually you see it done

a consistent trigger press from shot to shot, again a

with a ½-inch sanding drum, but that doesn’t

key component of accuracy.

properly alleviate the issue.

The issue is that the factory radius of the

Low

. . . . . . . .#MI-QDMRO-L

$85.00

DCA shapes the tang to allow for a higher and deeper grip. The higher grip helps mitigate recoil.

be performed on almost any pistol on the market,

cause an undue amount of friction. It’s addressed

but the Glock seems to benefit the most. We cut

by opening up the radius further into the trigger

into the tang and de-horn the corners to allow for

guard to alleviate the friction. We also radius

a higher and deeper grip. This is the first thing you

the undercut from left to right, which adds an

feel when you drive your hand into the grip for a

additional level of comfort when drawing the gun or

draw, and a higher grip helps mitigate recoil. The

repositioning your grip. Reducing friction here is key

shaping is also more comfortable for shooters like

and stippling the undercut is highly discouraged.

myself who shoot with a more isometric grip style.

Modifications like the ones mentioned help

“Index Cut.” It’s a popular upgrade among

end users extract the most out of their pistols.

shooters for its ability to allow the off-hand to get

There’s something so rewarding about picking

a higher grip on the gun. I like this option for the

up a pistol and it just melting into your hand. The

indexing ability it offers the index finger on your

smile-inducing sensation that our clients feel when

support hand. Upon drawing your gun, as your

first gripping our framework is what drives us and

off-hand meets the pistol and your index finger

keeps us motivated to continue the intricate art of

indexes in this notch, your thumb naturally rolls

stippling. Until the perfect pistol comes out, we’ll be

forward into a “thumbs forward” shooting grip.

sticking around. [ UN12 ]

With 1.40 Inch Offset

30mm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .#MI-QD30SM $184.95 1 Inch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .#MI-QD1SM $184.95

MI QD Ring Mount for Aimpoint PRO/ML2/ML3/Clones Lower 1/3

#MI-QD68 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$114.95

Co-Witness

#MI-QD68-CO . . . . . . . . . . . . .$124.95

Cantilever .#MI-QD68C $124.95

MI QD Optic Mount for Aimpoint T1/T2 Lower 1/3

#MI-QDT1-1/3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Co-Witness

#MI-QDT1-CO . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Low

. . . . . . . . . #MI-QDT1-L

$90.00 $90.00 $85.00

MI QD Optic Mount for Aimpoint PRO/CompM4

#MI-QDAPM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$75.00

MI Aimpoint PRO/CompM4 Cantilever Riser

#MI-QDAPM-OR . . . . . . . . . . . .$27.50

My personal favorite frame modification is by far the shaping of the tang. This modification can

undercut is much smaller than your finger and can

The most popular add-on we offer is by far our

01

#MI-QDMRO-CO . . . . . . . . . . . .$90.00

MI QD Scope Mount

MI QD Optic Mount for Trijicon ACOG & VCOG One Lever Model . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .#MI-QDTAV1 $82.50 Two Lever Model . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .#MI-QDTAV2 $125.00

MI QD Optic Mount for Trijicon Mini ACOG/TA33/TA44 #MI-QDTAM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$79.95

MI Universal QD Base

#MI-QD170 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$74.95

MI QD Base for SureFire M300/M600 Scout Series #MI-QD170SFS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$69.95

MI QD Bipod Mount For Harris Type Bipods #MI-QDBP . . . . . . . . . . . .

MI QD Optic Mount for Trijicon TA648 Two Lever Model . . . #MI-QDTA648 $125.00

$79.95

MI QD Atlas Bipod Mount

#MI-QDABP . . . . . . .$85.00

This is commonly regarded as the best technique for gripping a semi-auto pistol and the technique for which we develop our grip work. It helps the shooter establish a consistent grip, which is a

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UN12 / Issue 001

To see more of Danger Close Armament’s work, check out dangerclosearmament.com and follow their Instagram @ dangerclosearmament.

W292S4498 Hillside Rd, Waukesha, WI 53189 ◆ Tel: 262-896-6780, Fax: 262-896-6756 ◆ www.midwestindustriesinc.com

DEPT.

Buyer’s Guide

Pistol Caliber AR Parts Guide

Text by MARTIN ANDERS Images by JERRY TSAI

PCC popularity has spurred PCC-centric competitions such as the Lucas Oil Pistol Caliber Carbine World Championship and organizations such as the United States Practical Shooting Association (USPSA) and International Defensive Pistol Association (IDPA) to start up provisional PCC divisions for competition. After all, what’s not to like about running and gunning with your favorite carbine while learning important shooting and firearms manipulation skills?

One of the most popular firearms that has been converted to spit out pistol-caliber projectiles is the MacGyver of guns, the AR-15. ARs can be found

chambered in plenty of pistol calibers; in fact, they’re often termed the “AR-fill-in-the-caliber-here.” Our favorite type is the AR9, which feeds on 9x19mm Parabellum. Nine-mil is a plentiful, relatively and their rifles. It was practical, and

inexpensive round, and if you’re a 9mm

survivability in unfriendly areas was at the

pistol nut like we are, you’re able to share

ou’ve probably noticed that modern

top of their minds. In more recent times,

ammo between the two firearms just like the

pistol caliber carbines (PCCs) have

companies such as Beretta, Colt, CZ,

old timers did.

been hot for a while now. Just a few years

Kel-Tec, Kriss, and SIG Sauer—just to

ago they were looked upon by many as a

name a few—offer their own take on the

modifiable and customizable and a PCC

mere novelty, a carbine “real men” didn’t

PCC but in much more modern platforms.

AR is no different. Most of the parts you’d

Y

shoot due to their “lack of firepower.”

use on a rifle-caliber AR can be used on

Nowadays it seems just about everyone

debates about practicality and lethality.

a PCC AR with only a few exceptions.

has jumped on the PCC bandwagon, and

Some detractors don’t see the point, while

Because a carbine such as an AR9 uses a

there are good reasons why.

others declare that they are practical for

blowback system as opposed to the typical

many shooters’ needs. While it’s a worthy

AR-15’s direct-impingement system, you’ll

understand that PCC lineage can be

debate to be had, we’re not here to take

see differences in its barrel, bolt carrier

traced all the way back to the late 1800s.

part in it. What we do think is that we find

group (BCG), buffer, buffer spring, magwell,

Frontiersmen found value in being able to

PCCs to be fun to build, modify, shoot,

magazine, and sometimes its upper and

share ammunition between their revolvers

practice, and even compete with.

lower receivers.

Those who know their history

80

PCCs are oftentimes the focus of

As you probably know, ARs are highly

UN12 / Issue 001

UN0012 / CARTRIDGES FOR WEAPONS, INERT PROJECTILE or CARTRIDGES, SMALL ARMS —

UN12mag.com

81

04

02

03

Make: JP Enterprises

Make: Ballistic Advantage

06

Description: 9mm Barrel Lengths: 10.5”, 14.5”, 16”

Description: 9mm AR-15 Barrel, Modern Series

02

Lengths: 11”, 16”

Thread Pitch: 1/2-36

Thread Pitch: 1/2-28, 1/2-36

MSRP: $174 URL: jprifles.com

MSRP: $135 URL: ballisticadvantage.com

01 Make: Faxon Firearms

04

Description: Taper, 9mm Pistol Caliber Carbine Blowback, 4150 QPQ Lengths: 10.5”, 16”

07

Thread Pitch: 1/2-28

Make: Yankee Hill Machine

MSRP: $129-139

Description: 9mm Threaded, Fluted Barrel

URL: faxonfirearms.com

Length: 16”

05

Thread Pitch: 1/2-36 MSRP: $209

01

UPPER, LOWER RECEIVERS & MAGWELLS

It’s just that in a PCC AR, they’re not of much

could finally be used in the AR9. Since this

use. You’ll also want to know that 9mm barrels

innovation, a heavy influx of Glock-pattern

Although you can use a regular upper receiver

do not have gas ports, so you won’t have to

AR9s and accessories has hit the market.

for your PCC build, dedicated PCC AR uppers

worry about a gas block for your build.

Glock owners especially appreciate being

URL: yhm.net

05

able to run the same mags that they already

do have some distinct differences. PCC ARs

For some reason, AR9 barrels are threaded

are blowback-operated and therefore do not

in either 1/2x28 or 1/2x36 TPI. Unfortunately,

require a gas tube. For that reason, some

it doesn’t look like barrel and muzzle device

upper receivers don’t have a gas tube hole

manufacturers have committed to a standard

bit shorter than regular AR-15 BCGs, which

drilled into them.

yet. For the time being, we suggest making

affects the way the system cycles. Some

own for their pistols.

It’s worth noting that blowback BCGs are a

03

Make: [nerd] Braintrust Barrels Description: The Ward Length: 12.5”

your choice based on your favorite barrel

tuning of your recoil system will help make

Thread Pitch: 1/2-28

it expels a much shorter case than that of a

or muzzle device and choose a match

your PCC reliable.

MSRP: $225

rifle-round AR and its BCG does not cycle as

accordingly.

In the case of an AR9, you’ll also notice that

far back into the buffer tube as a rifle-caliber BCG does. For these reasons, the AR9’s upper does not require an ejection port that’s as open as the one found on an upper made for a 5.56mm cartridge. This is why you see that some PCC uppers have smaller ejection ports or shortened ejection port doors with attached gas deflectors.

As with the upper, standard lower receivers can be used to build up a PCC AR by using a magazine block that converts the magwell to accept a compatible pistol-caliber magazine.

If you’re really dedicated, you can opt for a

URL: weare-nerd.com

“For years, AR9 owners had no choice but to run this Colt pattern— that is, until the recent advent of the Glock-pattern BCG.”

lower that is specifically made for a particular

BUFFERS & BUFFER SPRINGS Building and shooting an AR9 can require some tweaking for it to function smoothly and reliably. It is our experience that most of it can be done with the use of different weight buffers and different strength buffer springs.

Due to their shorter-than-normal BCG,

06 Make: New Frontier Armory

many PCC systems require a heavier and

Description: Match Grade 9mm AR Barrel

longer buffer. Most dedicated AR9 buffers

Length: 16”

already come longer and can weigh as much as ten or more ounces. When compared to a standard AR-15 “H1” heavy buffer’s 3.8 ounces or even an “H2” weighing 4.6 ounces,

Thread Pitch: 1/2-36 MSRP: $150 URL: newfrontierarmory.com

the added weight is significant but is required

type of magazine. The most popular lowers non condimentum libero. you for nibh a reliably functioning gun. How heavy venenatis The helmetBOLT you seeCARRIER before GROUPS & pharetra, neque accept reliable and inexpensive Glock mags. you is the actual helmet of a MAGAZINES

Quisque at enim ac nulla vehia d go erat depends on your choice of ammo, barrel maximus sem, ac pulvinar

dfa sdf asd fcula sollicitudin sed Theutextended-length buffer compensates vitaeColtnisl fermentum, sed gravidasince ipsum.

Donec quis Colt was the pioneer ofmagna 9mm ARs. BARRELS & MUZZLE DEVICES

07

ac velit.

Aenean aliquam feugiat for the by shortening the bolt’s egestas eros gravida. Stue at shorter BCG Cras porttitor pattern AR9s use what are called “Colt-style” The most obvious reason you’d want a hendrerit turpis.

Make: Quarter Circle 10

d as d a sda asd a dsfa sd fas length and otheravariables. vitae tortor. Nunc tincidunt pellentesque porta mollis turpis, Early AR9 BCGs were cut forest Colt magazines

nunc imperdiet.” travel and lessens theidchance of breaking the enim Uzi act nulla ante eu ornare volutpat. In hac magazines—essentially modified mags.vehicula sollicitudin 9mm barrel is that it is sized for 9mm bullets. bolt catch. If you choose to run a standardsed ac well, velit. they Aenean aliquam dictumst.

Ut Although the stick-type mags work Also, unlike a standard AR barrel’s “star habitasse platea

Description: 9x19mm Barrel

length feugiat id imperdiet.”

Ut buffer, use a buffer spacer to limit the nisl, ultrices tend to beatharder to find, heavy due nunc to their chamber,” the barrel extension on a 9mmmolestie ornare

Lengths: 3.5”, 5.5”, 10.5”

rearward facilisis eros condimentum quamtravel of the BCG for the same effect. dolor suscipit id. Proin feugiat all-metal construction, and can be expensive. barrel essentially contains the chamber and

Thread Pitch: 1/2-28

strength, like buffer weight, depends pretium maximus vehicula.

Morbi For years, AR9 owners hadvenenatis no choicetempus. but to ProinSpring feed ramp, negating the need for you to use

MSRP: $170-190

many factors. Experimenting with these nulla congue, velon vulputate Expert’s Critique: run this Colt pattern—that is,felis untilinthe recent an upper with M4 feed ramps. Conversely, we

URL: quartercircle10.com

variables mi eleifend.

In sed luctus dolor, will net you a dependable and laoreet, dapibus advent erat of the Glock-pattern BCG. By milling have not noticed any problems with using“Quisque an upper that already has M4 feed ramps either.

82

UN12 / Issue 001

the BCG a certain way, Glock magazines

smooth-shooting PCC. [ UN12 ]

UN12mag.com

83

02 Make: JP Enterprises

01

04

01

Description: Silent Captured Spring 9mm Enhanced Version GEN 2

02

Weight: 11.2 oz.

MSRP: $185 URL: jprifles.com

03

03 01

Make: Kaw Valley Precision Description: Blowback Buffer

Make: Spike’s Tactical

06

Description: ST-9X 9mm Heavy Buffer

Weights: 7.5 oz., 10 oz.

Weight: 8.5 oz.

URL: kawvalleyprecision.com

MSRP: $50-68

MSRP: $50 URL: spikestactical.com

04

02

Make: New Frontier Armory Description: Blowback Buffer

03

Weights: 8 oz., 10 oz.

MSRP: $32-50 URL: newfrontierarmory.com

05

05 04

01

06

Make: Spinta Precision Description: 9mm Nitride Bolt Carrier Group Compatibility: Colt, Glock MSRP: $160

07

URL: spintaprecision.com

02

03

04

05

06

Make: Rock River Arms

Make: Quarter Circle 10

Make: New Frontier Armory

Make: JP Enterprises

Description: 9mm Bolt Carrier Assembly

Description: Bolt Assembly

Description: AR-9 Modular 9mm BCG

Description: Enhanced 9mm AR Bolt

Make: Lone Wolf Distributors

Compatibility: Colt

Available Calibers: Colt 9mm, Glock 9mm, .40 S&W, .45 ACP

Compatibility: Colt, Glock

Compatibility: Colt, Glock

MSRP: $150

MSRP: $250

URL: newfrontierarmory.com

URL: jprifles.com

MSRP: $175 URL: rockriverarms.com

MSRP: $235-265 URL: quartercircle10.com

84

UN12 / Issue 001

Description: G9 9mm Bolt Assembly Compatibility: Glock MSRP: $130 URL: lonewolfdist.com

07

06

05

Make: Yankee Hill Machine

Make: MBX

Make: Blitzkrieg Components

Description: 9mm Bolt Buffer Weight: 6 oz.

MSRP: $56 URL: yhm.net

Description: Recoil Reduction System Buffer Weight: 6.8 oz.

MSRP: $125 URL: mbxextreme.com

Description: AR-15 9mm Hydraulic Buffer Weight: 5.8 oz.

MSRP: $140 URL: blitzkriegcomponents.com

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85

02

03

04

05

Make: Lantac USA

Make: Yankee Hill Machine

Make: Phase 5 Weapon Systems

Make: Cross Machine Tool

Description: 6.8 SPC II/7.62mm/9mm Slant Muzzle Brake

Description: FATman Hex Brake

Description: Dragon Muzzle Brake Thread Pitch: 1/2-28, 1/2-36

Thread Pitch: 1/2-36

MSRP: $160

MSRP: $74

URL: lantac-usa.com

URL: yhm.net

Description: ZCOMP Linear Muzzle Device

Thread Pitch: 1/2-36

Thread Pitch: 1/2-28, 1/2-36

MSRP: $115

MSRP: $99

URL: phase5wsi.com

URL: cmttac.com

01

02

03

Make: New Frontier Armory

Make: New Frontier Armory

Make: MBX

80% C-9 Billet Lower Receiver

Complete 80% Jig Kit

Features: Accepts Glocktype mags, available in 9mm (C-9), 10mm, and .45 ACP (C-45) models MSRP: $130 URL: newfrontierarmory.com

Features: Includes everything needed to complete 80% receivers minus the tools MSRP: $65 URL: newfrontierarmory.com

Description: A4 Buffer Spring with Buffer Pad Features: Competition springs, available in “Yellow” for 115 Power Factor up to 145 Power Factor (shown) and “White” for 140 Power Factor and above

02

MSRP: $16 URL: mbxextreme.com

02

01

01

Make: Fortis Manufacturing

01

Description: Muzzle Brake 9mm Nitride Thread Pitch: 1/2-28, 1/2-36 MSRP: $90 URL: fortismfg.com

03

04 05

03

06 06

07

04

08 05

09

06

07

08

09

Make: Quarter Circle 10

Make: MBX

Make: Strike Industries

Make: [NERD]

Description: Pistol Caliber Flash Can

Description: 9mm PCC Compensator

Description: Strike Mini King Comp 9mm

Description: NC Nano 9mm Brake

Thread Pitch: 1/2-28, 5/824, .578-28

Thread Pitch: 1/2-28, 1/2-36

Thread Pitch: 1/2-36

Thread Pitch: 1/2-28, 1/2-36

MSRP: $50

Colors: Red, Blue, Black

URL: quartercircle10.com

MSRP: $96 URL: mbxextreme.com

86

UN12 / Issue 001

MSRP: $65 URL: strikeindustries.com

MSRP: $90 URL: weare-nerd.com

06

05

04

Make: Rock River Arms

Make: Kaw Valley Precision

Make: Precision Reflex, Inc.

Description: 17-4 SS Pistol Caliber Spring

Description: 9mm Gas Buster Charging Handle

Features: Increases dwell time for 9mm, 10mm, .40 S&W, or .45 ACP blowback AR systems

Available: Combat Latch (shown), Military Big Latch

Description: 9mm Magwell Conversion Block Features: Converts AR-15 lowers to accept 9mm Colt-style magazines MSRP: $175 URL: rockriverarms.com

MSRP: $10

MSRP: $90 URL: precisionreflex.com

URL: kawvalleyprecision.com

UN12mag.com

87

01

01 Make: Quarter Circle 10 Description: Pistol MUR Features: Increased strength for blowback systems, pistol case sized ejection port MSRP: $180 URL: quartercircle10.com

02 Make: New Frontier Armory

02

Description: Pistol Caliber Non-Reciprocating Side Charging AR-9 Stripped Billet Upper Features: Side charging, designed for last round bolt hold open MSRP: $235 URL: newfrontierarmory.com

03 Make: Spinta Precision

03

Description: AR-9 Billet 7075 Slick Side Stripped Upper Features: Made for 9mm builds, does not have M4 feed ramps MSRP: $140 URL: spintaprecision.com

04 Make: American Spirit Arms Description: 9mm Side Charger Upper Receiver w/ Modified Carrier

04

Features: Non-reciprocating side charger, includes BCG, milled brass deflector MSRP: $500 URL: americanspiritarms.com

05 Make: New Frontier Armory Description: Pistol Caliber Billet AR-9/45 “Slick Side�

Upper

05

Features: No gas tube hole, capable of last round bolt hold open MSRP: $140 URL: newfrontierarmory.com

88

UN12 / Issue 001

Feature

“When Nighthawk Custom and Agency Arms announced a collaboration on a special project earlier this year, a collective ‘oooh’ was exhaled by gun nerds everywhere.”

Nighthawk Custom

A Collaborative Effort

Text by MARTIN ANDERS Images by MICHAEL GREY

: : Collaboration between Nighthawk Custom, Agency Arms, Railscales and Hillbilly223 : : Commander-sized 1911 chambered in 9mm : : Only 50 pieces made available to the public

90

UN12 / Issue 001

UN12mag.com

91

FEATURE

W

hen Nighthawk Custom and Agency Arms announced their collaboration on a special

project earlier this year, a collective oooh was exhaled by gun nerds everywhere. (Count us among the loudest ooohers.) When pictures of the Agent1 began popping up on social media and elsewhere online, that initial oooh was followed up with an admiring ahhh.

The Agent1 is a beautifully crafted rendition of a commander-size 1911. It combines the modern look, feel and ergonomics that Agency Arms customized pistols have become known for while combining Nighthawk Custom’s legendary silky-smooth performance, outstanding precision and dependable reliability, all packed into one tidy 1911 package.

“As unlikely as it seems that two companies, each known for its own custom pistols, would come together and collaborate on a gun together, it did in fact happen…”

01 Agent1 is the result of the first collaboration between Nighthawk and Agency Arms.

What’s not to like?

HOW IT HAPPENED

company by any means. Parks quickly responded:

As unlikely as it seems that two companies, each

“No, no, no, we stay in our lane. We are not a

known for its own custom pistols, would come

1911 brand.”

together and collaborate on a gun together, it did in

Yeti responded: “What do you think about me

fact happen, and we are glad that it did. Before we

potentially setting up something with Nighthawk?”

delve into the pistol itself, we wanted to know how

Parks, already a fan of Nighthawk Custom’s

this rare joint effort took place. We spoke to Mike

impeccable work and now in full-blown geek mode,

Parks, co-founder of Agency Arms, about how the

replied, “Heck yeah, that would be incredible.” Yeti

Agent1 came to be.

went ahead and made the connection with Mark

The story begins with Steve “Yeti” Foster, owner

Stone, owner of Nighthawk, and Nelson Davis,

and lead instructor for Sentinel Concepts, a firearms

Nighthawk’s Chief of Operations. A few phone calls

training company. In a conversation with Parks,

ensued and the rest is history.

Yeti, who is sponsored by both Nighthawk and

The 1911 can be had in any number of

Agency—how do we sign up for that program?—

configurations and the number of options available

asked if Agency had ever thought of getting into the

can make your head spin. So how did they nail down

1911 game.

the commander configuration for Agent1? That

For those who aren’t up to speed, Agency Arms

was what Yeti and Parks conversed about early on

is primarily known for radically customizing Glock

during the initial planning stage. After handling a

and Smith & Wesson M&P pistols and is not a 1911

commander-sized 1911, Parks realized that, in terms

02 Agency Arms applies front cocking serrations, a slide lightning package, and rear cocking serrations, among other recontouring operations.

03 The Agent1 features a 4.25-inch, match-grade fluted bull barrel.

04 An enlarged magwell assists with faster magazine loading.

05 The frame features an ultra hi-cut front strap with a 10 lines-perinch ball radius cut.

92

UN12 / Issue 001

1 2 3 4 5 UN12mag.com

93

FEATURE

1

of 1911 sizing, it is most similar to a Glock 19, which is

that had alternate panel and serration positions. The

by far Agency’s most popular customized pistol. The

masterminds at Nighthawk and Agency collectively

size similarity boded well for his other prerequisite, that it

worked out the details and finally came down to the final

would need to be able to be used as a carry gun. He also

design that you see here.

stipulated that the pistol should be chambered in 9mm.

After the basic specs were decided, Parks said that

The collaborative effort that produced the Agent1 also includes finishing touches by Railscales and Hillbilly

the theory was to do something radically different and to

223. Known for their G10 and polymer rifle handguard

throw an Agency spin on it, all without going overboard.

panels—or, as they call them, scales—Railscales provided

Agency decided that they wanted to enter the 1911

their new 1911 scales to the project. The grip panels are

world without being too ostentatious. Agency’s popular

CNC-machined out of G10 material and feature the same

slide window cuts were not used in the Agent1 in favor

honeycomb texture used on the company’s rifle scales.

of the more conservative Patrol Series type of look. This

Railscales didn’t simply replicate traditional 1911 grip

allows the Agent1 to look both modern and aggressive

panels, but instead redesigned them to melt into the

without going over the top, as well as to maintain its

pistol’s frame. This re-contoured grip results in more panel

duty-level reliability.

coverage area, making for a better fit over the frame.

The panels are aggressively contoured and make hand

A COLLABORATIVE EFFORT Agency Arms co-founder and designer, Randy

94

slippage nearly impossible.

You’ll notice that the Agent1 isn’t coated in a simple

Niswander, generated five different versions of the slide

shade of black, but instead is finished in a custom gray

for submission to Nighthawk. There were versions that

mixture of Cerakote by the experts at Hillbilly223. The

featured everything from a top window to versions

company terms the style of coating as “battle worn,”

UN12 / Issue 001

2 SureFire MasterFire

“The Agent1 promises to be plenty accurate thanks to its 4.25-inch, match-grade, 9mm, fluted bull barrel. The barrel is also semicrowned flush, which gives it a handsomely refined look.”

3

01 The frame includes a light rail that is capable of taking onboard most weaponlights on the market.

02 The SureFire X300UH-B emits 600 lumens of white light.

03 At the rear, you’ll find a one piece mainspring housing.

Rapid Deploy Holster This innovative holster attaches to the weapon light itself and not the pistol, allowing it to be used with any number of pistols. As long as your pistol is capable of hosting SureFire’s XH15, X300UH-B, or X400UH-A weapon lights, you’ve got yourself a holster.

To save time and effort, the MasterFire holster can be configured to automatically activate the weapon light when the pistol is drawn.

which gives it a slightly weathered look. The coating is expertly applied by hand and provides a durable, protective layer to the pistol’s exterior.

INSIDE AGENT1 Keeping in line with its “One Gun, One Gunsmith” manufacturing approach, Nighthawk is able to maintain its high-quality, hand-crafted standards by first sending unfinished slides to Agency Arms for machine work.

Agency Arms applies its magic touch to the slides, which include front cocking serrations, a slide lightening package, and rear cocking serrations, among other re-contouring operations. When the slides are complete, Agency sends them back to Nighthawk for final assembly.

The Agent1 promises to be plenty accurate thanks to its 4.25-inch, match-grade, 9mm fluted bull barrel. The barrel

UN12mag.com

95

FEATURE

UN12

E X P L O D E D VIEW

is also semi-crowned flush, which gives it a handsomely refined look. It is these fine details that really make the Agent1 stand out from the crowd. The slide is completed with a Nighhawk fiber-optic front sight, a Heinie Ledge plain black rear sight, and full-length guide rod with bow tie plug.

The forged commander size frame includes a light rail that is capable of taking onboard most weaponlights on the market. We attached a 600-lumen maximumoutput SureFire X300UH-B so we could use the pistol in conjunction with SureFire’s Masterfire rapid-deploy holster. Gone are the days of searching for a holster for every one of your pistols. This innovative holster attaches to the weaponlight itself, not the gun, and

Nighthawk Custom Agent1

“Only 50 of these babies are being made available and they’re mostly all (if not all) spoken for already. If you have your heart set on one, don’t give up hope just yet.”

Specifications: Caliber: 9mm Magazine Capacity: 10 Rounds Barrel Length: 4.25 in.

Height: 5.50 in.

Overall Length: 7.85 in.

Width: 1.40 in.

Weight Unloaded: 2 lbs. 5.4 oz.

allows it to be used with any number of pistols. As long as yours can accommodate the X300UH-B, you’ve got

Finish: Hillbilly223 Custom Gray Battle Worn Cerakote

yourself a holster.

The frame also features an ultra-hi-cut front strap that

The following 24 Agent1s were sold directly through

boasts a 10 lines-per-inch ball radius cut. You’ll also

Nighthawk via a lottery system. For those still interested

find a one-piece mainspring housing and a flat-faced

in scoring an Agent1, you’ll be glad to know that the

Nighthawk Custom trigger installed in the frame.

final allotment of 25 pistols is being distributed to

MSRP: $4,595 URL: nighthawkcustom.com

Nighthawk and Agency dealers. At the time of this

AVAILABILITY

article’s writing, all are said to be en route to the dealers.

Agent1 is part of a 50-piece limited run and retails at

Knowing this, if you can find one at this point, you’d

$4,595. That’s right—only 50 of these babies are being

better snap it up quickly otherwise you might not have

made available and they’re mostly all (if not all) spoken

another chance—or will you?

for already. If you have your heart set on one, don’t give up hope just yet. Read on.

Agent1 number 001 was auctioned off for charity

MORE TO COME? Understanding how popular Agency’s windowed

earlier this year. The auction benefited Special

Glocks are, we asked why they decided to not include

Operations Care Fund (SOC-F), a completely volunteer-

them with the Agent1. Parks responded that since this

run organization whose focus is to raise funds for the

is the company’s first foray into the 1911 arena, they

families of wounded or killed Special Operations Forces.

decided to enter with a more conservative design.

1

The auction was hosted on Gunbroker.com and, as we heard it, ended at more than an astounding $13,000!

But when pushed to divulge more information, he

did let slip that “the next one will most likely have a window.” Whether that was a tongue-in-cheek response remains to be seen. If we were betting men, we’d put money on more interesting collaborations coming from Nighthawk Custom, Agency Arms, Railscales and Hillbilly223 in the near future. [ UN12 ]

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01 : : nighthawkcustom.com : :agencyarms.com

The reverse side of the grip’s panels will reveal laser etched logos of Agency Arms, Nighthawk, and Railscales.

Featured Accessories (not included): 2 x USGI 20rd Aluminum Magazines Cerakote Finished with BAD INC. Logo Stencil

: :railscales.us

1 x Battle Arms Development SBR Hard Case with Custom High Density Foam & Accessories

: :hillbilly223.com

1 x Certificate of Authenticity Metal Plaque 1x BAD Inc. T-shirt 1x BAD Inc. Patch 1 x Associated wrenches and tools

UN0012 / CARTRIDGES FOR WEAPONS, INERT PROJECTILE or CARTRIDGES, SMALL ARMS —

UN12mag.com

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Feature

Text & Images by JERRY TSAI

A Pair of Modern Retro SBRs

Battle Arms Development Woody 98

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“The idea was to build something new and exciting for SHOT Show and to showcase our receivers, stock, and other parts.”

: : Based on a one-off custom rifle : : Two models to choose : : Chambered in .300BLK

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FEATURE

I

f you were cruising the internet a couple of years ago in search of solid gun porn, it’s likely that you

came across a unique, wood-cladded AR-15 SBR that was unlike anything out there at the time. A short-barreled rifle nicknamed “Woody” successfully mated custom-made traditional-style wood furniture with decidedly modern aesthetics and functionality.

The Woody certainly caught our attention. It made such a strong impression that its still one of our favorite builds to this day. If you know of the rifle we are referring to, you undoubtedly have already noticed that the featured rifles closely resemble it. If you have no idea what we’re rambling on about, just read on.

Battle Arms Development (BAD), headquartered in Henderson, Nevada, is known for manufacturing everything from complete rifles, upper and lower receivers, to a large assortment of aftermarket customization parts, most of it dedicated to the AR-15 platform. Their uniquely styled parts are a hit with those looking for a way to personalize their firearms with a tastefully aggressive look. The upgrades that BAD injects into the bloodstream of AR-15s aren’t just for

original ‘Woody’ was a collaboration between us and Anibal

style either. They are also designed to greatly improve the

Salinas, before he started Weapons Armament Research,”

functionality of the weapon.

he says. “The idea was to build something new and exciting

BAD’s latest creations are a pair of AR-15-type SBRs based on the handmade Woody that has been so fondly seared into our memories. Two styles are available, Paratrooper

other parts.”

Salinas, having a creative mind and being a skilled

and Tanker, and both build on the traditional wood furniture

craftsman, eagerly took on the task. He built the Woody the

appearance and add a World War II-inspired vibe to the

old-fashioned way: by hand. The pair have collaborated

original’s underpinnings. No doubt, these rifles are instant

before; some might remember another build that the two

head turners at the range. Their official names may be

worked on, a “Star Wars Darth Sidious-inspired” rifle.

Huang and his crew decided to give the people what they were demanding. But how would they go about it?

Carving your own one-off furniture set and then installing it onto a single rifle is doable by a talented craftsman, but manufacturing them en mass on a production line and making it easy for even the not-so-Etsy set to install and affordable enough to purchase is a whole other matter.

“The primary issue was to get the cost down to an affordable level,” Huang says. “When you’re doing a prototype, you can spend hundreds of hours on it and you

something that caught people’s eyes in order to promote

know you never get the return on investment. For production,

through the gun community online and through social media.

BAD’s upper and lower receiver sets, their VERT PDW stock

you have to worry about affordability and durability.

We spoke to George Huang, President and CEO of Battle

It sounds funny now, but BAD didn’t expect the response

system, and other parts. It was unexpected that customers

Arms Development, about how these rifles came to be. “The

that it received from the build. The concept was to make

would clamor for the wood furniture sets themselves.

Paratrooper and Tanker, but we still like to refer to them collectively by the nickname Woody.

100

for SHOT Show and to showcase our receivers, stocks, and

“We had to make the production model mount on our RIGIDRAIL perfectly without drilling new holes or modifying the rail.”

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The Woody was a hit at SHOT Show and quickly spread

“Prototypes don’t have to last a long time or have a clean way to be mounted. We had to make the production model

01 The Tanker (shown), has a PDW stock attached to the lower receiver by way of a stock mount.

02 BAD’s receivers are contoured to save weight.

03 The wood handguard was made to mount to BAD’s existing RIGIDRAIL handguard.

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FEATURE

“It was originally an art piece so to speak, mainly existing for eye candy purposes.”

transition from a single one-of-a-kind piece to an item offered in quantity. Remember, the Woody

mount on our RIGIDRAIL perfectly without drilling new holes

was never meant for public consumption.

or modifying the rail.” He explains further: “We had to make

It was originally an art piece so to speak,

new hardware adaptors to mount the wood to the M-LOK

mainly existing for eye candy purposes.

system. We also had to figure out a way to engineer the wood

For BAD to figure out how to produce

cheek rest so it isn’t so time consuming to make.”

such a complicated build, make it

The original’s cheek rest was in fact very time consuming to

bring its price down for sale is a

it, mold the wood piece to the right curvature, trim it, and then

remarkable feat.

glue it to a steel base.

“Not having it delaminate and stand up to warping, heat,

Both models of the Woody feature 7.5-inch

chemicals and the like was a big challenge for such a thin

barrels with pistol-

wood piece,” Huang points out. “We couldn’t make it thicker

length gas

because it has to clear the charging handle. We also had to

systems, are

make the wood grip more vertical for the proper ergonomics

chambered

on a short PDW weapon.”

in .300 AAC

What blows us away is that rarely does a custom firearm

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more durable than the original, and

make. Salinas had to shave a thin layer of wood veneer, steam

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Blackout and are UN12mag.com

103

FEATURE

tipped with an A2 flash hider. The 4150 CM steel barrel has a 1:8 twist and 5R rifling.

It is double stress-relieved and finished in black nitride. A .223 Wylde version that can accept both .223 Remington and 5.56x45mm NATO is said to be coming out as well.

The rifles are both built utilizing BAD’s billet BAD556-LW lightweight upper receiver. The receiver is CNC machined from heavy duty 7075-T6 aluminum and features an attractive profile that is unique to the company. Living up to its name, the upper only weighs 6.28 ounces.

Other enhancements that come with the rifles read off like a roll call at a pro-sports all-star game. BAD held nothing back and loaded the Woody up with not only their own upgraded parts such as a titanium gas block, a 6.7-inch RIGIDRAIL

Tanker and Paratrooper? Although they look almost identical, a closer examination will reveal that the Tanker features a BAD556-LWLR billet 7075-T6 CNC-machined lightweight profile lower receiver with attached BAD-CSS VERT PDW stock system. That is

handguard, and a Combat Ambidextrous Safety Selector,

to say that the PDW stock is attached to the lower receiver by

but favorites from other manufacturers such as BCM’s

way of a stock mount. This two-piece system allows the stock

GUNFIGHTER Mod A44 ambidextrous charging handle and a

to be replaced or transferred if you ever wish to do so.

set of Magpul MBUS Pro back-up sights. We can’t list the rest

104

So what’s the difference between the

The Paratrooper on the other hand is built on the BAD-PDW,

of the upgrades due to limited space, so you’ll have to go the

a monolithic PDW lower receiver. Its stock mount is actually

BAD website to see it all.

machined into the lower receiver to give it outstanding

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“Its stock mount is actually machined into the lower receiver to give it outstanding strength.”

01 BAD’s signature receiver milled to include a flared magwell and lightening cuts.

02

2 3

1

strength and make it dedicated to the VERT PDW stock. Because of the different stock mounting methods, the cheek rests on the two systems are different shapes. From what we gathered, that distinction is what separates these twins from one another.

Regardless of which lower you choose, both are outfitted with a Battle Arms Development Special Edition Trigger made by

The Paratrooper’s lower receiver incorporates its PDW stock mount, making it light and strong.

Triggertech. Its pull is adjustable from two to five pounds with click

03

action that aims to produce a 1911 trigger-like feel.

While the original’s cheek rest was made of wood, the production model’s is made of durable powdercoated steel.

A French Walnut and are also offered separately from the Woody

feedback indications and it uses Triggertech’s Frictionless Release Technology (FRT) for what they describe as a zero creep, two-stage The handguard and pistol grip are completed out of solid Grade as bolt-on furniture sets. So if you want the look on your own rifle, have at it. All that’s required is one of BAD’s RIGIDRAIL handguards UN12mag.com

105

in 6.7- or 9.5-inch length for proper attachment of the forend.

You’ll also need one of their VERT PDW stocks for the cheek rest. Currently the wood set will run you $350.

The rifles also are equipped with BAD’s ultra-compact buffer and buffer spring. The patented dual-spring buffer is

more than 20 U.S. patents to prove it. Another 20 patents are pending, so they’ll just keep on coming.

These guys are not a nameless, faceless corporation. They

designed to reduce recoil. Zeroing in again on the stock for a

are customer-oriented and are always open to taking on

moment: How did they deal with the cheek rest issue? If you

requests for custom builds and other projects. If you want

recall, they had to figure out how to make it more practical to

to request one, they can even make you a 9mm or .22LR

manufacture and more durable than the original. It’s hard to

conversion version of the Woody. As bad-ass as the Woody is,

tell, but the cheek rests on these production models aren’t

let’s not forget it’s a design that’s already several years old. We

actually made out of wood. They are crafted out of stainless

can’t wait to see what new innovations they’ve come up with

steel which is treated with a special patented UV-stabilized

that they can’t even show us yet. [ UN12 ]

powdercoated wood grain finish. That’s incredible.

The pair of World War IIinspired SBRs are Cerakoted in-house by the BAD Cerakote Custom Shop to resemble vintage WWII rifles. They are finished with H-Series Cerakote with a custom blended mixture called Parkerized Green Steel & Cosmoline. This color theme

“The color theme finish matches the feel of WWII-era weapons such as the M1 Garand, M1 Carbine, and 1903A3.”

: : For more on Battle Arms Development, visit and follow them at: battlearmsdevelopment.com : : IG @battlearms : : FB BattleArms

finish matches the feel of WWII-era weapons such as the M1 Garand, M1 Carbine, and 1903A3. If you’re digging the look, you’ll be glad to know that

made in the usa

it just works!

we heard that the BAD Cerakote Custom Shop is being set up to work on outside customer jobs in the near future. We hope they will offer this WWII theme as a service of theirs.

Battle Arms Development is continually innovating. Their method is to take each component, piece by piece, and figure out ways to improve it. They are all about producing off-theshelf yet customized firearms and components and have

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Complete Bio-Based Weapons Care System

SHOT SHOW Booth #20405

UN12

E X P L O D E D

UP YOUR GAME

VIEW

Tanker & Paratrooper

For over 38 years, SureFire has been the leading manufacturer of weapon-mounted lights, lasers, suppressors and other tactical equipment for those who go in harm’s way, or anyone who demands the ultimate in quality, innovation, and performance.

Specifications: Caliber: 300BLK, .223 WYLDE Receivers: Anodized 7075 T6 aluminum Sights: Magpul MBUS Pro Trigger: BAD Edition TT-15 Adjustable Trigger (2-5 lbs.)

Overall Length (collapsed): 20.1 in.

Barrel: 7.5-in. 4150 CM Steel; 1:8 twist; 5R rifling

5

Weight: Paratrooper, 5 lbs., 2 oz.

Tanker, 5 lbs., 1 oz.

6

1

2

MSRP: Paratrooper, $3,409 Tanker, $3,373 URL: battlearmsdevelopment.com

4

3

Included: 2 x USGI 20-rd. aluminum magazines Cerakotefinished with BAD Inc. Logo Stencil

7

7

1 x Battle Arms Development SBR hard case w/ custom high-density foam & accessories 1 x Certificate of Authenticity metal plaque 1x BAD Inc. T-shirt 1x BAD Inc. patch 1 x associated wrenches and tools

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UN0012 / CARTRIDGES FOR WEAPONS, INERT PROJECTILE or CARTRIDGES, SMALL ARMS —

1. RIFLE WEAPONLIGHT: M600V-B-Z68-BK WITH DS-SR07-D-IT 2. RIFLE MUZZLE DEVICE: WARCOMP-556-1/2-28 3. RIFLE SUPPRESSOR: SOCOM556-RC2-BK 4. HANDGUN SUPPRESSOR: SF RYDER 9M-TI-1/2-28-BK 5. HANDGUN BARREL: SF-G19-1/2-28-BK 6. HANDGUN WEAPONLIGHT: X300V-B 7. DUECK DEFENSE RAPID TRANSITION SIGHTS: DD-RTS-SET

WWW.SUREFIRE.COM

DEPT.

Adventure

Eclipse Totality

: : Overland adventure covering 3,500 miles through 3 states : : Convoy of 8 trucks : : Trip duration: 10 days

“They were going to experience it on their own, away from the crowds, way, way off the beaten path.”

Text & Images by VICTOR NGUYEN

T

aking off for a multi-day camping trip into the unknown is what

memorable trips are made of. To do it with a group of your buddies makes it that much better. Catching a total eclipse while doing it is icing on the proverbial cake. We caught up with a group of offroad enthusiasts called twentyfourseven adventure (TFS.ADV) who did just that.

Proving that their group’s name is quite fitting, they traversed the equivalent of a drive from coast to coast and then some, all within 10 days and through three states.

Driving modified trucks over rough terrain and camping in wide-open country day in and day out sounds like an adventure most of us would want to be a part of. Never needing an excuse to get out, the guys in TFS.ADV regularly go on overland adventures multiple times a year, but this year they had another good reason to take a trip.

It’s rare that a total solar eclipse passes over the Lower 48, the last time being in 1979. The group didn’t want to miss it and there’s no way they were going to be reined in with the masses collected in the cities and towns along the eclipse’s path.

They were going to experience it on their own, away from the crowds, way, way off the beaten path—and while they were at it, they threw in plenty more exploring, riding on the legendary Oregon Trail, and visiting other incredible landmarks. The following is a first-hand account of the adventure in the words of someone who was there to experience it. By the way, if you’re interested in catching the next solar eclipse to soar over our skies, it’ll be in 2045.

Perhaps you can join TFS.ADV on that trip.

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01

01

Air pressure is critical when navigating rough terrain.

02

Trekking across the Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah.

02

03

Eclipse totality was observed in the wilds of Wyoming.

04

With our trucks packed and our gas

What could be more relaxing than a campfire beneath the stars?

tanks topped off, we updated ourselves on the local weather reports one last time

03

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UN12 / Issue 001

moon’s shadow swept across the field.

The Oregon Trail was a critical

before setting off from our home base in

transportation route for emigrants wanting

California. The next ten days would take us

to settle westward, inspired by dreams

off the beaten path, across both paved and

of gold, trade, and land ownership.

unpaved roads, and more than 3,500 miles

Thousands would lose their lives on

across Utah, Wyoming, and Colorado.

the trail, succumbing to the elements,

We took a quick break in Utah to catch

04

as the daytime sky turned to night while the

being attacked by native inhabitants,

up with the rest of our group, camping

and enduring other hardships. Hundreds

alongside the Bonneville Salt Flats to

of years later, we could travel what took

set some land speed records of our own

months in covered wagons or hand-drawn

before setting off for Wyoming.

carts in a mere matter of hours on the

“The next ten days would take us off the beaten path, across both paved and unpaved roads, and more than 3,500 miles.�

Interstate. A portion of the original Oregon

Despite weather reports to the contrary,

a hundred members of their original party.

Trail is still accessible, albeit seldom traveled. We travelled on the Oregon Trail for the better part of a day, finally making camp alongside the historic Ninth Ford of the Sweetwater River.

The following morning, we set off again on the Oregon Trail, and stumbled upon a landmark staffed by Mormon missionaries.

It was here that more than 400 men, women, and children had been halted on their trek during a particularly brutal winter that claimed the lives of more than

we were greeted with clear blue skies at

Some of the names of those who stayed

our campsite in the Bridger-Teton National

during that winter can still be seen etched

Forest, and not another person around for

in the rocks surrounding the site. We

miles. This site also fell directly within the

completed the last few accessible miles of

path of eclipse totality, giving us a perfect

the Oregon Trail as we pushed onward to

total solar eclipse. We gazed in amazement

Colorado.

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01

“Encompassing all manner of breathtaking mountain vistas, it’s no surprise that many call Ouray the fourwheeling capital of the world.”

01

Descending Black Bear Pass, Rocky Mountains of Colorado.

02

One trip can take you through many different types of terrain.

03

Easy to see why Ouray is called the Switzerland of America.

04

Colorado is almost too beautiful to

Colorado is chock-full of great trails for off-roading.

describe. It’s hard to convey all the lush green trees and grass, the bright blue sky, the ever-changing scenery. It’s like looking

02

03

at a real-life HDR picture. We spent the next few days passing through a number of Colorado mountain passes, finally ending up near Lake City.

Ouray and the adjacent towns were heavily influenced by silver and gold mining operations in the early 1900s.

Nowadays, their main business comes from four-wheeling and winter sports.

Encompassing all manner of breathtaking mountain vistas, it’s no surprise that many

04

call Ouray the four-wheeling capital of the world. The descent down Black Bear Pass is well-known for its off-camber switchbacks. Then we made our way through Imogene, boasting more than 13,000 feet in elevation.

While all adventures must eventually come to an end, not many can say they camped alongside the Bonneville Salt Flats, watched a total solar eclipse alone in the middle of Wyoming, drove on the original Oregon Trail, or drove halfway through Colorado using mountain passes.

We’re proud to say we have done it—with good company, anything is possible. [ UN12 ]

To see more of twentyfourseven adventures’ exploits, follow their Instagram @TFS.ADV

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115

DEPT.

In-Depth

O

k, admit it. We all want a “gun wall.” You’ve seen them before. Whether its ogling pictures of HK’s

famous “grey room” or watching YouTube videos of guys talking about gear in their nifty gunrooms, a wall full of guns and gear really does get a gun guy’s or girl’s pupils dilated. It’s just so damned cool looking, isn’t it?

So if you want to set up your own personal retail-style display in your man cave, what’s the best way to go about it? We had the pleasure of testing out Tactical Walls’ MOD Wall System, which allows you an unfettered method of displaying your gear collection.

Unlike your typical particle board slat wall, the MOD Wall System is made up of durable and dense HDPE-type plastic, similar to the kind of material an armorer’s block is made from. It’s lighter than wood, is chemical resistant, won’t scratch your guns, and will hold up to the weight. Best of all, it’s offered with specialized hanger attachment fixtures made for guns and gear.

The MOD Wall System is sold in easyto-order packages as well as in individual pieces. The parts consist of MOD Wall panels and specialized gear hanging fixtures. We opted to order two packages, one called the Operator Package and the other called the Patriot Package, as well as some extra attachment fixtures. The packages start at $225 and include two wall panels along with a selection of hanging fixtures, which seems like a real bargain for

Tactical Walls MOD Wall System Text by DANNY CHANG Images by JERRY TSAI

what you get.

The wall panels measure 48 inches wide and 22 inches tall and mount to any flat surface via screws through dimpled points on the panel. Simply drill through the panel and into the wall with the provided anchor screws, and there you go. Of course, guns and gear are heavy, so it’s best to mount the panels to studs in the wall and make sure that the panels are horizontal with a leveler. Don’t just eyeball it!

The panels can be mounted any way you see fit.

Butting two against each other as you see on the left side of our installment allows you to slide hanger fixtures from one panel to the next. On the right, you’ll see that stacking them allows you a taller display. The stacked display measures an impressive 48 by 44 inches while the side-by-side offers 8 feet of continuous guns and gear eye-candy.

The walls we mounted the panels to only had studs coinciding with some of the anchor points, but not all of them. We opted to hammer in drywall anchors for the areas that didn’t have studs. Be sure to double-check the weight capabilities of the anchors for your intended display. The installation took two people and we got our four panels installed in about half an hour. It’s pretty

: : Modular wall display system : : Made of HDPE type plastics : : Easy to install and set up

simple to do with standard household tools such as a power drill and a powered screwdriver.

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117

01 There are plenty of MOD Wall hanger attachments to fit any variety of firearm.

The wall panels have many available

end of the panel or through mounting

about anywhere along the slats on the

mounting accessory fixtures that allow

holes found on the face of the panels.

wall. Our weapons mounted onto the

you seemingly unlimited combinations

Upon installation, we realized that

magazine-mimicking shaped fixtures

MOD Wall Syste

In-Depth: Tactical Walls

“This display isn’t secure from theft, but that’s not what it’s made for.

It’s made to show off your collection.”

to hang your gear. Hangers include

some of the hangers were tough to

with ease. We especially liked the

general fitment pieces such as shelves,

mount. It seems that some screws come

“Hide-A-Magnet” magnetic hanger that

rifle and shotgun racks, and super-

a turn or two too tight or loose from the

allowed us to simply slap our pistols and

strong magnetic pieces that can grip

factory, sometimes inhibiting the hanger

mags into place. The attachments really

pistols and magazines safely with ease.

from smoothly sliding on the wall. We

make it look like your items are floating

about $600 and an hour and a half of

Specialized fixtures include right- or

found that tinkering with how deep the

in front of the wall.

installation, we too now have a wall

left-facing magazine-shaped pieces for

screws are installed into the backside of

AKs, AR-15s, AR-10s, and pistols that

the hanger with an Allen wrench allowed

but that’s not what it’s made for. It’s

Our only problem now will be resisting

the guns can easily mount to. Tactical

us to find a sweet spot that allowed

made to show off your collection. If

the urge to expand the wall so that it

Walls even offers special hangers for

easier installation and adjustment and

security is your thing, one of Tactical

encompasses the entire room. [ UN12 ]

flashlights, helmets and vests.

little to no hanger sag. (If the screws are

Walls’ other products may appeal to you

too loose, the fixture will want to droop

more. Otherwise we suggest mounting

off the panel.)

this system in a location that’s secure

extensive collection of hand-crafted

There are heavy-duty button head screws on the back of each hanger that help lock it into the channels in the wall panels. They can be installed at either

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UN12 / Issue 001

This display isn’t secure from theft,

and the workmanship is top notch.

After about an investment of

of guns that we can proudly show off.

To learn more about Tactical Walls’

to begin with. Fit and finish of the wall

firearm storage solutions, visit their

Wall, they can be slid into place just

is what you expect from Tactical Walls,

website at tacticalwalls.com.

02

03

The heavy-duty button head screws that mount the hangers to the MOD Wall can be adjusted for precise fitment.

We’re digging the floating gun look. Check out that dual-wield double pistol hanger.

Once the hangers are on the MOD

04 How you outfit your MOD Wall is only limited by your imagination and how much gear and wall space you have.

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119

DEPT.

Competition & Training

Shoot This Drill

I

t’s no secret that your skill as a shooter is

In this article, Frank Proctor of Way of the Gun,

Utilizing experience gained from an impressive resume

R

RIFLE:

a training company that focuses on five tenets

that includes 18 years in the military, the last 11 of

you get. But what you make of the time running

of performance shooting—Processing, Control,

those in U.S. Army Special Forces, and his competition

Third shot at left target

a gun also matters. Blasting away without any

Mechanics, Movement, and the Mental aspects of

shooting ranking of USPSA Grand Master in the Limited

Fourth shot at right target

clear goal can be fun, but rarely does it result in an

shooting—bestows upon us a valuable private

Division and Master ranking in IDPA Stock Service Pistol,

improvement to your practical shooting skills. A

shooting lesson. We recommend you practice it if you

Proctor imparts one of his favorite skill-building drills to

well-thought-out shooting drill can do wonders for

want to become a more effective shooter or keep your

us. It’s not only educational; it’s fun too. Learn how to

your accuracy, control and speed.

skills sharp.

shoot the Fabulous 4 drill from the master himself.

directly related to how much trigger time

P

First 2x shots at center target

PISTOL: First 2x shots at center target Third shot at left target Fourth shot at right target

Text by FRANK PROCTOR Illustrations by CHARLES LASKY

03 03

01 01 02

04

02

04

3 Yards

“A wellthought-out shooting drill can do wonders for your accuracy, control and speed.”

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UN12 / Issue 001

FABULOUS 4 DRILL : : Total Shots: 8 4 Shots, Rifle 4 Shots, Pistol : : Cumulative Time: 4.0 seconds or less : : Proctor’s Time to Beat: 3.82 seconds

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121

Competition & Training

Most of what I do these days when I train is perform exercises that develop skills necessary to shoot “Fast Accurate Easy.” I feel there’s a difference between Exercises and Drills. Many times as shooters we run drills over and over again at the same speed, expecting to reach a goal if we just continue to do them. I don’t think that’s a good way to reach your shooting goals.

With exercises we can deliberately and methodically hone skills that will allow us to accomplish goals.

It’s fun and valuable to occasionally run some drills that test your current

“You do not need to move your hands fast to be fast.

Fast hands are in fact usually counterproductive to scoring fast.”

abilities. Here’s one of my drills, what I call Fabulous 4. I came up with Fabulous 4 a few years ago as a way to test vision speed and mechanical efficiency with both carbine and pistol. Notice that I said vision SPEED and mechanical EFFICIENCY. You do not need to move your hands fast to be fast. Fast hands are in fact usually counter-productive to scoring fast, and I talk about this in detail in my training courses. When you run this drill to TEST yourself, do not move your

Method

01

String 1: On the start signal, use your rifle to fire two rounds on the center target and one round on each of the outside targets. Record your time.

Note: The rifle starts at the low ready. (Rifle mounted to your shoulder and the sights below your nose.)

String 2: On the start signal, use your pistol to fire two rounds on the center target and one round on each of the outside targets. Record your time.

Cumulative time for both strings should be 4 seconds or less, and only shots inside the A or C zones score. For this drill, it’s all or nothing on the hits. If you don’t get all the hits in 4 seconds or less, it’s a fail.

Note: The pistol starts in the holster.

hands any faster than what allows you to safely handle your guns. —FP

3 Yards

FABULOUS 4 DRILL To set it up you need 3 USPSA cardboard targets. Set the targets up 10 yards from the shooting position and 3 yards apart. The shooter covers down on the center target. The drill can be run two different ways, so here’s the

3 Yards

first way. You’ll also want to use shot timer to time your run. Note: Diagram not drawn to scale.

R

Stop.

02

ANALYSIS

+

P

The second way to run the drill is to combine both guns into one string and incorporate a rifle-to-pistol transition.

It is imperative that you put the rifle on safe as you transition from rifle to pistol!

Shoot.

Stop.

Time.

Method

10 Yards

Shoot.

=

Time.

Less Than 4 Sec.

Start with your rifle at the low ready and your pistol holstered. On the start signal, fire 2 rounds on the center target and 1 round on each of the outside targets with the rifle, safely transition from rifle to pistol, and again fire 2 rounds on the center target and 1 round on each of the outside targets.

The time should be 4 seconds or less with all the hits. Once again, a good evaluation would be to run the drill successfully three times in a row.

3 Yards

If you can shoot the Fabulous 4 drill successfully three times in a row, you’ll know you have some very solid vision speed and mechanical efficiency. If you can’t shoot it clean in the right amount of time, don’t keep shooting it at speed and expect to get better.

You need to analyze your performance and determine which areas you need to improve, then train with exercises that help you develop those skills. After you have refined the skills you identified, go back and test yourself again with the drill. I think you’ll find this method of training will allow you to reach your shooting goals much more quickly. And it will be a better investment of your time and resources. [ UN12 ]

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UN12 / Issue 001

To see Proctor shoot this drill, check out his video here: youtu.be/DAr93fTVF5s.

To learn more about Frank Proctor and Way of the Gun, and for more shooting drills, check out: wayofthegun.us/videos/

+ R

Shoot.

Transition.

P

Shoot.

Stop.

=

Time.

Less Than 4 Sec.

UN12mag.com

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DEPT.

Customization

itself creating all types of designs from the basic all the way to full-blown works of art.

The Minden, Nevada-based company specializes in Cerakote application as well as laser engraving and was originally headquartered inside the gun shop, High Desert Guns, in 2011. Due to growth spurred by high demand for its services, Nevada Cerakote was spun off and officially established as its own entity in

Nevada Cerakote Text by JERRY TSAI Images by BEN DAVIS, BATTLE BORN PHOTOGRAPHY

W

e’re really blessed as gun enthusiasts to be living at a

time when firearms customization and

late 2015.

When we asked about Bacon’s background, he filled us in: “My previous career was in the semiconductor industry as sales/marketing/engineering support. I’m a longtime firearms enthusiast and have been painting guns for approximately seven years. I started messing with the AR-15 platform 10 years ago and began customizing and building different rifles from parts as a

“Execution and the ability to get the material to do what you want it to do is the hardest part.”

individualization are really taking off. As you may have noticed on your Instagram feed, the artistry and creativity of some of these artists are really off the charts.

In fact, it’s this spirit of creativity and appreciation for fine craftsmanship that lead us to start UN12 in the first place.

We were fortunate to have the opportunity to talk to Russ Bacon, a craftsman who specializes in custom Cerakote coatings and whose work we have long admired. His company, Nevada Cerakote, made a name for

1.4 S

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UN12 / Issue 001

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125

Customization: Nevada Cerakote

“There are times when I’m not sure how a new idea is going to turn out.”

UN0012 / CARTRIDGES FOR WEAPONS, INERT PROJECTILE or CARTRIDGES, SMALL ARMS —

portfolio, we asked what some of his favorite styles or designs are to coat. “I really like the themed projects,” he says. “That is, projects with company logos or specific identification marks.

I like projects where the customer gives me the

1.4 S

few must-haves but then gives me full artistic liberty. I also like developing original camos and uncommon color combinations. The common hobby. The gun painting began out of that hobby.

stuff pays the bills but the original projects keep

I started with Krylon, then Duracoat, and now

me inspired.”

Cerakote.”

Impressively, Bacon’s Cerakote application skills

On what type of items he likes working on most, Bacon elaborates. “I like just about anything.

are mostly self-taught. He eventually attended the

Of course the less common or more exotic stuff

NIC Industries Cerakote Certification Class and

always adds extra excitement to the project, but

is now officially factory certified. “Trial and error

I don’t discriminate. I put just as much effort and

provided most of my learning,” he says modestly.

pride into an old Remington 870 as I do with a

Reveling in his beautiful handiwork—seen in the accompanying images of guns that he’s coated for

Barrett 98B with a US Optics scope on it.”

Nevada Cerakote caters to individuals as well

Axelson Tactical, as he does all of their Cerakote

as companies that are searching for a bit of flair

work—we asked if he’s always been artistically

and then some. The company offers pricing

inclined. Bacon responds: “I would classify myself

programs for manufacturing customers large and

more as a craftsman rather than an artist.

small. They can coat just about anything and have

Creativity is most definitely a huge part of this

surface-marking to deep-engraving capabilities

type of work… however, execution and the ability

into all metals using fiber laser systems. A new

to get the material to do what you want it to do is

website will be online soon that will include

the hardest part.”

online ordering capabilities along with pricing

He adds: “There are times when I’m not sure

information for services. [ UN12 ]

how a new idea is going to turn out. Most times I surprise myself and it comes out better than

check out their website at nevadacerakote.com

worst critic.”

and socially on Instagram @nevada_cerakote

With such a wide array of projects in his

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UN12 / Issue 001

For more information on Nevada Cerakote,

expected. Others, not so much. I’m certainly my

and Facebook at Nevada Cerakote LLC.

UN12mag.com

127

DEPT.

Lifestyle

Kilo Text by JERRY TSAI

Images by STEPHEN DEL FIERRO DIETRICH & COURTESY OF KILONINER

ho doesn’t like a good slobbery kiss,

is in tactical nylon gear production and he

especially if it’s one from your faithful

works with some of the biggest names in the

canine buddy? Dogs are loyal companions

industry. It was inevitable that his passions

that keep us loved and safe, always

for both well-designed tactical gear and

welcoming us home with wide eyes and an

his dogs somehow met and formed what is

excited wagging tail. If you’re a dog owner,

Kiloniner.

we don’t have to explain the many merits of having a four-legged friend around.

In late 2015, Mike Maceda founded

128

We asked Maceda just what got him to start producing tactical-inspired designs for dogs: “It started with this desire I had

Kiloniner, a company that specializes in

to outfit my Boston Terriers in tactical-style

making dog accessories inspired by tactical

vests like the ones that police or military

military designs, specifically for small to

dogs wear. After looking around, I noticed

medium-sized dogs. Maceda’s expertise

that there was nothing out there that fit

UN12 / Issue 001

K9

W

“It was inevitable that Maceda’s passions for welldesigned tactical gear and his dogs somehow met and formed what is Kiloniner.”

UN12mag.com

129

smaller dogs. The only vests I could find for small dogs didn’t seem to fit or look right and the quality wasn’t up to my standards, which were pretty high because my background is designing and manufacturing soft goods for the tactical industry.

During my free time, I started designing gear for my little dogs with the same attention to detail and material quality that I put into real-world tactical gear. The result was Kiloniner.”

Kiloniner makes a wide array of products

01

A Kiloniner collar is coming soon. It will be available in different sizes and color schemes.

for dogs, all here in the USA, including vests, harnesses, leashes, and collars, as well as other miscellaneous accessories. Of the collection, the most popular item is a compact K9 Tactical MOLLE Vest. Our favorite is their scaled down Afghanstyle Shemagh neck scarf. We also really like their M1 Modular Leash that incorporates optional

“At first, the main purpose of Kiloniner was to empower the little dog.”

attachments such as an M1 Poop Bag Dispenser Pouch that’s shaped like a M203 grenade pouch.

Maceda adds: “At first, the main purpose of Kiloniner was to empower the little dog. We wanted to offer them everything that the big dogs were being offered, and sometimes even more. All of our products are focused on being functional with great care put into the details as well as the use of quality materials. I think because of this

Kilo nin

we’ve been getting a lot of requests from large dog owners to expand our line to include them. And strangest of all, we’ve had a growing following of cat owners who have purchased our products and have been requesting more. So while we will continue focusing on products for little dogs, we’ll also be including more offerings for larger dogs and, believe it or not, cats!” [ UN12 ] To learn more about Kiloniner, visit their website at kiloninerpets.com and follow them

03

The M1 Tactical Mesh Harness has multiple adjusting points on the chest, neck and belly to increase comfort and to help attain that perfect fit.

on Facebook at Kiloniner and on Instagram @kiloninerpets.

K9

02

Never satisfied with his accomplishments, Maceda continually strives to improves his products. Note the padded straps that help keep your puppy comfortable as well as secure.

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UN12 / Issue 001

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131

DEPT.

Product Review

: : Capable of using rechargeable and disposable batteries

Duel Fuel LED Scout Light

: : 1,500 maximum lumen rating Text by BILL BLOWERS

: : Multiple switch options

A

weapon-mounted

to hold a location down with

light is mandatory

white light, I can use the click

for professionals and home

function. Not having to buy new

defense; you simply cannot

bits and pieces to go with a new

argue that in this day and age.

light is a bonus.

Proper discrimination ensures

focus on beam pattern and

wrong people, or the right

lumen output, but those things

person for the wrong reason. It

are second on the list. What I

is the height of irresponsibility to

want is durability and reliability.

not positively identify something

The best and brightest light on

you intend to shoot, and

the planet does you no good if

courts will not look favorably

it doesn’t work when you need

on this regardless of the

it to. SureFire is synonymous

circumstances.

with quality, and no matter what

SureFire M600DF 132

UN12 / Issue 001

02 The M600DF incorporates a slightly thicker body than the M600 Ultra.

other lights are out there, they

opportunity to field trial the

are compared to, well, SureFire.

new SureFire M600DF-BK,

SureFire is the goddamn AC/DC

the company’s new dual-fuel

of tactical lights for a reason,

Scout Light (hence the “DF”

and the biggest reason is that

designation). The light accepts

they work all the time, in all

rechargeable 18650 batteries

conditions.

or two CR123 batteries as its

At this point I have about 100

power source and ships with

hours of total training time with

a rechargeable battery and

the M600DF using marking

charger. First the nerdy stuff—

cartridges and live role players,

using the rechargeable slams

and about 2,000 total live

out 1,500 lumens of dark-

rounds fired with it positioned

busting power. With the 123s it

next to an open tine SureFire

drops slightly to 1,200. Either of

WARCOMP that is timed for

these outputs far exceed my old

lefties. That means the ports

M600 Scout; the difference is

face the light and give it a rough

noticeable to the naked eye and

ride when firing.

it is an impressive amount of

The M600DF continues SureFire’s tradition of high durability and reliability.

A lot of these articles will

that we aren’t shooting the

I was recently given the

01

As expected, the light was

light from such a compact unit.

boringly reliable as usual. After

The M600DF has a slightly

2,000 or so rounds fired, there

thicker body than the M600

were no issues other than the

Ultra, but the light accepts

lens being coated with carbon.

previous Scout tail caps so you

Wipe it off and no drama. The

have the option to use a “clicky”

front of the light took two direct

tail cap, pressure switch, or the

hits from marking cartridges;

combo tail cap based on your

wipe it off and no drama. It was

needs. For my purposes I use

inadvertently bashed against

the combo tail cap so I can use

doorframes, walls, debris and

a pressure pad to activate both

other normal kinda SWAT man

light and laser, and if I want

stuff. You guessed it, no drama.

03 The light accepts previous Scout tail caps so you have the option to use a “clicky” tail cap, pressure switch, or combination tail cap.

UN12mag.com

133

Product Review: SureFire M600DF

04 The M600DF provides plenty of spill and enough throw to rapidly scan corner to corner in darkened rooms.

Flash bangs and explosive breaches did not affect it either.

The bottom line for me as a cop is that the light must work all the time,

“The M600DF covers both ends of the spectrum, reliable as a math problem and bright as the fires of hell.”

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Bill Blowers has been a fulltime police officer for over 25 years. During that time he has served as a patrol throw to rapidly scan corner to corner in rooms, and to discriminate at the

become mandatory.

I can also wash white light when

fire. Muzzle flash confirmation is

and a charger from a reputable name

wrong moment. So the fact that this

officer, in a street crimes

something I want to avoid.

brand on Amazon for 36 bucks.

light also takes 123s for emergencies

unit, as a training officer

Those batteries will last far longer

is huge.

and as a patrol sergeant. He

Rechargeable batteries save you

limits of my eyesight. I don’t just need

using NVG by returning the favor

to see that there is a piece of steel

with more white light. This does not

money. As a full-time cop working

than the 18 CR123s I can get for the

I have been using lights in a

is currently the supervisor

every time. If I can’t discriminate what

reliable as a math problem and bright

at 100 yards; I need to see that it’s

wash out my NVG. It diminishes

within a budget, every penny I can

same price. And those 18 123s will

professional capacity for more

of the training unit and has

I’m seeing, I can’t use deadly force

as the fires of hell.

holding a handgun or a hair drier.

my adversary’s light output so I can

save on one gun-related thing results

give me about 16 hours of run time

than a quarter century. Technology

been a SWAT team member

determine his status. In a recent

in more money that can be spent

total. Run time on a rechargeable is

advances have really improved

since 1995. He is a team

lawfully. The delay could cost me my

The dual-fuel capability of this

Different surfaces will also eat up

life, the life of a partner, or the life of

light is absolutely fantastic and I dig

white light—dark carpet and dirty

course we were faced with exactly

on bullets and training. Training

estimated at 1.5 hours—my own run-

current offerings and the SureFire

leader on a large regional

a citizen. It could also save the life

it almost as much as the reliable

walls, for example. I may also need

that problem, but I was able to

is the most important thing I can

down testing gave me an hour and 13

M600DF-BK is a great example of

SWAT team in Washington

of a suspect who is a holding a shoe

and bright bit. First is that the

a ton of white light to push through

switch from IR illuminator to white

provide my guys and myself. On the

minutes of continuous run time.

that. Awesome beam pattern, 1,500

State. In addition, he has

instead of a gun. I would absolutely

rechargeable provides more lumens;

photonic barriers. Examples would

light quickly and overcome the bad

training company side of the house,

lumens, and compact size along

been providing training on

choose a light that is less bright, but

you can never have too much light

be a bad guy with his own flashlight

guy. I watched him flinch when the

rechargeable batteries cut my bottom

outfit my duty guns with a light that

with SureFire dependability and the

weapon and tactics since

was more consistently reliable in all

when you are trying to process

or a daytime job where I’m trying to

white light hit him and I was able to

line when I have to pay for them

was rechargeable batteries only. I

economy of rechargeable batteries?

2006 as the owner of Tap-

conditions. Fortunately, the M600DF

information rapidly. The M600DF

push light into a dark interior. In those

see which of the role players actually

myself, so this one is a no-brainer. I

simply could not take the chance of

There’s nothing else out there that

Rack Tactical, LLC.

covers both ends of the spectrum,

provides plenty of spill and enough

cases, huge amounts of white light

had the gun and return effective

recently bought two 18650 batteries

having the rechargeable die at the

makes as much sense right now. [ UN12 ]

To be clear, I would be hesitant to

05

06

07

08

Using the rechargeable batteries enables the M600DF to produce 1,500 lumens of light output.

Using two CR123 batteries drops light output to around 1,200 lumens.

The M600DF ships with a rechargeable battery and charger.

The M600DF also offers a ton of white light to push through photonic barriers—one example being a bad guy with his own flashlight.

134

UN12 / Issue 001

UN12mag.com

135

DEPT.

Guns & Gear of Instagram

@battlecocktactical

D

@gunconnoisseur

@dark_alliance_firearms

@valkyriecombat

@dougburkmire

@blacksheeparms

@pillarmediagroup

o you hit up tags like #igmilitia, #pewpew and #gunporn on the

daily? Scrolling through your Instagram feed invariably brings plenty of incredible images of fresh AF firearms and other pieces of cool customized gear that can be eyegasm inducing. Many of these images provide motivation for our future builds or help us add to our lofty collection goals.

Here are a few IG accounts that we found to be follow-worthy.

@poweredbymario

@tracerxphoto

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UN12 / Issue 001

Popular IG tags to follow: #igmilitia, #pewpew, #gunporn, #gunsdaily, #guns

MEET YOUR NEWEST ADDICTION Win glory for yourself and your collection and gain hoards of IG followers. Tag us with the hashtag #un12ig

UN12: The biggest and freshest firearms magazine focuses on customization and individuality.

if you’d like a chance of your IG account to be featured in a future issue of UN12.

Dealers wanted: UN12 is a premium and limited magazine that is not available on newsstands. It is only available online and through specialty shops like yours.

Join up as a UN12 retailer and we’ll drive customers to you. If you would like to carry UN12, contact us at retailer@un12mag.com today.

RETAIL DIRECTORY

NEVER FAIL UN12 is a specialty magazine that is printed in limited quantities and is not available everywhere. Find your copy at these select retailers before it sells out.

CA

WA:

OC Armory 23012 Del Lago Dr. Laguna Hills, CA 92653 Tel: (949) 768-5189 URL: ocarmory.com

Grey Ghost Gear 2916th 107th St. South Lakewood, WA 98499 Tel: (253) 984-7854 URL: greyghostgear.com

Rifle Gear 18065 Mount Shay St. Fountain Valley, CA 92708 Tel: (949) 209-6413 URL: riflegear.com

NW Safes 830 Cole St., Enumclaw WA 98022 Tel: (360) 825-5953 URL: nwsafe.com

NV:

Pantel Tactical 16926 116th Ave SE Renton, WA 98058 Tel: (425) 282-4186 URL: panteltactical.com

New Frontier Armory 150 E. Centennial Pkwy, Suite #110 N Las Vegas, NV 89084 Tel: (702) 479-1470 URL: newfrontierarmory.com

If you are a retailer that would like to carry UN12 in your store, contact us at: retailer@un12mag.com

138

UN12 / Issue 001

TX:

Rainier Arms 2504 Auburn Way N Auburn, WA 98002 Tel: (253) 218-2999 URL: rainierarms.com

Custom Defense Firearms 1911 E Rancier Ave. Killeen, TX 76541 Tel: (408) 597-4867 URL: customdefensefirearms.com

Rehv Arms 27623 Covington Way SE #2 Covington, WA 98042 Tel: (253) 630-5900 URL: rehvarms.com

Rifle Gear 6101 Windhaven Pkwy, Suite 145 Plano, TX 75093 Tel: (972) 292-7678 URL: riflegear.com

ONLINE RETAILERS: rainierarms.com UN12mag.com

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