Training With Gabe White: Pistol Shooting Solutions (Part 3)

By

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April 2, 2025

Training With Gabe White Pistol Shooting Solutions Handgun

Main Takeaway

For a two-day course, Pistol Shooting Solutions is truly a masterclass in the topic of defensive pistol craft. Both training days are filled with lectures, demonstrations, explanations, and even relevant personal anecdotes. White also manages to touch on various topics throughout the class time. Even some not typically seen in a contemporary defensive class, such as shot-calling or shooting on the move, among other things.

Is Pistol Shooting Solutions an Advanced Class?

Training With Gabe White Pistol Shooting Solutions Glock 17 Class

I wouldn’t call Pistol Shooting Solutions an “advanced” class. I think that term is overused when it comes to describing shooting. But that’s a different article for another time.

While it’s true that most of the students who showed up to train that weekend were objectively “advanced,” it shouldn’t dissuade any prospective students from the opportunity to learn and push their defensive pistolcraft either. After all, there are no preliminary requirements needed to shoot the Technical Skills Tests other than the ability to safely draw a firearm from its holster.

The same is true for Pistol Shooting Solutions. An individual’s ability to execute the collection of drills contained within Technical Skills Tests at an advanced level is welcomed. However, it’s not a requirement for the prospective student.

For students, the most important thing they can do to prepare for this course is to ensure some modicum of comfort and basic proficiency vis-a-vis shooting and drawing from a holster. Some of it will be shooter-dependent.

On a more granular level, the shooting portion of Pistol Shooting Solutions’ curriculum is tailored around White’s Technical Skills Tests. Its elements, such as the Bill Drill, Failure To Stop, etc, aren’t technically “advanced” movements. They’re stand-and-deliver shooting events, and ancillary aspects such as reloads, etc., aren’t really in Pistol Shooting Solutions’ purview.

One of the students on the line that weekend was on the newer side. Despite maybe not being up to speed to the same levels as others in class, their excellent attitude and willingness to “lock-in” probably got them further along in their skill development than had they attended a more basic defensive pistol course.

The Mental Game

Following my coverage of White’s lectures and the Middle Path concepts, I really want to reiterate that the inner mental game of shooting was constantly present during training that weekend.

During Pistol Shooting Solutions, each opportunity to work reps and chances to shoot many of the drills under the pressure of the shot timer was also an opportunity to work on mental management. It wasn’t just on the practice runs before White formally assessed his Technical Skills Tests. There were various drills in class that had an element of friendly competition amongst students, which also served as excellent mental management practice.

Honestly, the more I shoot, the more I see how it’s not about pulling triggers and letting bullets fly across into the berm. I know I’m not the first one to describe this, nor will I be the last, but this notion really stuck with me during this particular class.

Training With Gabe White Pistol Shooting Solutions Glock 17

While some like to dismiss class coins, patches, or pins as range pokemon (gotta catch ‘em all), it’s always worthwhile to try one’s best. I showed up to class with no expectations that I’d earn any pin whatsoever and almost went home with a turbo pin. It came down to two sloppy mikes under pressure on the Split Bill Drill, which left me with a consolation prize of a light pin.

Had I kept up that bulls___ notion in my mind that I wasn’t going to earn anything, I definitely would not have kept shooting light and turbo pin runs during practice like I had been.

B-G17-E: Big Glock 17 Energy

On a personal level, taking White’s class was very satisfying. It wasn’t just because I got to knock the rust off my atrophied handgun skills for the first time in months or the reward of the light pin that I earned thanks to properly managing my inner thoughts. It was also because training with Gabe White had been on my class bucket list for a long time.

When I first decided to elevate my own skills and intentionality in handgun shooting a decade ago, Gabe White was one of the first instructors who caught my attention. It wasn’t just due to his skill and speed in shooting from the AIWB position and concealment. It was also because he shot to such a high level with fairly boring guns. Then, it was the Glock 34. I’m pretty sure it was stock.

Nowadays, it’s a standard fifth-generation Glock 17 topped with Ameriglo Bold iron sights. Honestly, his Glock is nothing remarkable in terms of contemporary 9mm handguns. I saw it up close; it’s an early Gen5 with the half-moon cutout on the frontstrap that Glock did away with. I know these guns well because I own one, too. And yet, seeing this man shoot that Glock 17 with more skill than most 2011 owners is a sight to behold.

Running Optics

As for dots, White doesn’t shoot with them, but he’s also not against them either. Off the range, I happened to have a conversation with him about “post-graduate” level iron-sight shooting skills. I was astonished by the level of introspection he applies to shooting with duty-grade irons. It’s an anomaly, but it’s also the result of putting in the work. In the end, his carrying of a full-size 9mm service pistol boils down to another of the concepts he espouses in Pistol Shooting Solutions:

“There’s no such thing as being too good at fighting with your life with a handgun”

I’ll admit that when I got home from class, I took out my own bone-stock early Gen5 Glock 17 that usually lives in the back of the safe and admired it.

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Read Part 1 and Part 2 here.

The Ten Essentials – A Basic Gear List for Outdoors Adventures

By

Jim Cobb

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April 2, 2025

The Ten Essentials is a concept that’s been around for decades. It first appeared in print in Mountaineering: The Freedom of the Hills (3^rd edition) in 1974. It’s a list of gear that is recommended to those who head outdoors for hiking, camping, and similar pursuits.

Over the years, the list has been tweaked by countless instructors, organizations, and Scout troops to suit their individual needs. They might swap one or two items for different ones. But the core purpose remains the same. The Ten Essentials should be enough to get you through one or two nights out in the field in an emergency.

Let’s run through the list. Something that’s important to understand is that while the list is called the Ten Essentials, that doesn’t mean we’re talking about ten and only ten individual items. Look at these as categories of gear that should be represented in what you’re carrying.

Shelter

This doesn’t strictly mean a roof over your head. Instead, it includes everything that will protect you from the elements. Your decision about clothing and outerwear should be informed by the environment and weather conditions you expect to encounter. In addition, a rain poncho or compressible parka might be wise, depending on the season. Likewise, a wide-brimmed hat will help keep the sun and rain out of your eyes.

Fire Starter

To my way of thinking, this includes ready-to-light tinder as well as something with which to light it. A disposable lighter and some cotton dryer lint in a baggie might suffice for many people. Personally, I like to add a ferrocerium rod to the kit as well, just in case the lighter runs out of fuel or somehow gets broken. As a last-ditch backup option, you might consider Pull Start Fire.

Lighting

It’s important to be able to see where you’re going and what you’re doing. A bright light can also be used as a signal device if you need assistance. A small LED headlamp allows you to keep your hands free as you move about, and they weigh almost nothing these days.

Knife

This is one of the most important tools in the Ten Essentials. Maybe the single most important one, if we’re being honest. A good-quality knife will help you process firewood, harvest food, and so much more.

Cordage

This can be used to build snares, make expedient shelters, and help you carry things. Paracord is the most common cordage option these days, but there are others you might consider, including tarred bankline and Kevlar kite string. Given the negligible weight, you could carry a fair bit of each in your pack. Do yourself a favor, though, and take time to learn several basic knots so you can make full use of whatever cordage you have with you.

Water

This is a multi-faceted entry on the Ten Essentials list. You should always carry some amount of clean water with you when you head out on the trail. In addition, make sure you have the means to make found water potable. A Sawyer Mini is a great choice in that regard, as it’s small and easy to use.

Navigation

Being able to determine where you are and how to get back to civilization will solve a lot of potential problems. While GPS is great, it isn’t infallible. Batteries can die, and devices can be broken or lost. A map of the area and a compass, coupled with the knowledge of how to use them, is good insurance.

First Aid

Carry what you’d need to treat injuries like burns, scrapes, cuts, and sprains. You may also want to toss into that kit medications for stomach upset, pain relief, and fever. This doesn’t need to be a kit extensive enough to perform surgery, but it should probably go at least a step beyond a boo-boo kit.

Repair Gear

This category on the Ten Essentials list refers to items that will help you make quick fixes in the field, such as patching holes in clothing. Duct tape has dozens of uses. Wrap a few feet of it around an old gift card to keep in your pack. The ripSPOOL from Exotac will give you duct tape along with needle and thread. A multi-tool is also quite handy.

Bandanna

This is one of the lightest items on the Ten Essentials list, but it has many uses. It can be a sweat mop in hot weather, a scarf in cold weather, and it can remove debris from water before you run it through a filter. A shemagh is a great option for the bandanna category. These typically run 42 inches on a side, so you’ll have more options for use than with the smaller snot rag type.

Use the Ten Essentials list as a reference tool when you plan your next outing.

Two Travel-Ready Packs

By

Reuben Bolieu

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April 1, 2025

GAT_travel-ready packs (1) — The Gossamer Gear Minimalist Travel-Ready Pack has been used for jungle trips, tracking classes, and overnighters in the wilderness and remains a durable force.

A backpack serves as an essential item for any camping or hiking trip. These two travel-ready packs demonstrate how a small, super lightweight pack can function in multiple ways. You can use it as a stuff sack for your cooking or bedding gear and quickly transform it into a summit or exploration pack from base camp.

Minimalist 19 Travel-Ready Pack

The Gossamer Gear Minimalist 19 Daypack is a lightweight and durable backpack. It’s designed for hikers and travelers who value simplicity and functionality. Its 19-liter capacity offers efficient storage for essentials while maintaining a sleek, minimalist design.

Crafted from water-resistant Robic® nylon, it features cushioned shoulder straps, an adjustable sternum strap, dual side pockets for water bottles, and a top zipper pocket for quick-access items. This pack stands out among two travel-ready packs for day hikes or urban adventures!

Pack body weight is 10.6 ounces.

Key Features

Lightweight and Durable Material: The backpack features Robic® nylon, renowned for its lightweight yet durable qualities. This design guarantees durability while keeping the weight down, making it perfect for long hikes or city use.
Compact Size with Ample Storage: Its 19-liter capacity balances compactness and sufficient storage space. It can comfortably hold essentials like clothing layers, snacks, water bottles, and small gadgets.
Comfortable Carrying: It features cushioned shoulder straps that help distribute weight evenly, reducing strain during extended use. The adjustable sternum strap ensures a secure and customized fit, improving stability while on the move.
Accessible Organization: The pack includes dual side pockets for water bottles or other quick-access items. The top zipper pocket is also perfect for smaller items like maps, keys, or snacks you need to grab without rummaging through the main compartment.
Minimalist Design: True to its name, the design is clean and straightforward, making it versatile for outdoor adventures and everyday use. Its sleek profile ensures it won’t feel bulky or cumbersome.
Water Resistance: While not fully waterproof, the fabric offers a degree of water resistance, helping to protect your gear from light rain or splashes.

The author took his original Gossamer Gear Minimalist to Peru and the Philippines during jungle survival trips with no issues.

It’s an excellent choice for those who prioritize simplicity and efficiency in their travel-ready pack!

Hacky Pack

I recently discovered Sylvansport’s Hacky Pack, which is lightweight, durable, and perfect for carrying a day’s gear. It features two side mesh pockets for water bottles, a hidden back pocket, and a hydration bag slot. It also transforms into a compact 4-inch ball for easy portability, and at just 4 ounces, it’s impressively light.

I’ve used Gossamer Gear backpacks for fifteen years due to their lightweight options, usually choosing packs that weigh 4 to 8 ounces. While the Hacky Pack isn’t as spacious as those, I was surprised by how much it held for day trips and saw it as a viable summer overnight backpack. Although the website claims a 40-pound capacity, I found it challenging to pack that much for overnight trips.

The Hacky Pack’s compact design and functionality make it a great choice if you want to minimize your gear weight. It helps keep your essentials close and accessible and even allows for a fun trailside game of hacky sack! These two travel-ready packs make it hard to choose which I like best!

Key Travel-Ready Pack Features:

Compact and Packable: The Hacky Pack can be folded into a 4-inch ball, making it easy to carry and store when not in use.
Lightweight Design: Weighing only 4 ounces minimizes the burden on your shoulders during hikes or travels.
14-Liter Capacity: Offers ample space for day-trip essentials while maintaining a compact profile.
Hydration Compatibility: It includes a slot for a 1.5L hydration bladder and a port for the tube, ensuring you stay hydrated on the go.
Comfortable Carrying: Adjustable shoulder straps and a convenient grab handle enhance comfort and usability.
Organized Storage: Features an internal organizer pouch and hidden zippered pocket for valuables. There are dual-side mesh pockets for water bottles or small items.
Durable Material: Made from robust nylon fabric, ensuring durability for outdoor adventures.
Reflective Webbing: Improves visibility in low-light conditions, adding a safety element.

These two travel-ready packs are perfect for hiking, traveling, or everyday use while traveling or at the local grocery store!

The Sylvansport Hacky Pack compresses to a 4-inch ball and weighs just 4 ounces, making it easy to pack in a beach bag or luggage while offering great utility.

For more information, please check out Gossamer Gear and Sylvansport!

SME Tip – Clean Your Pocket Pistol (often)

By

Travis Pike

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April 1, 2025

When I say SME, let’s be clear: I’m not a Subject Matter Expert in anything. Well, I’m pretty skilled at drinking beer. However, I’m not a Subject Matter Expert in anything firearms. I call myself a Subject Matter Enthusiast. I like to pass on tips that I’ve found in shooting guns, carrying guns, and being part of the industry. Today’s is all about cleaning your pocket pistol.

I’m pretty deep into the camp of team “no clean your firearms.” Not that I won’t clean a gun; it’s just that I’m going to shoot it a lot before I do it. I need to put a ton of rounds through a gun before I clean it. I’m not part of cleaning it every time I shoot it. However, I advocate for cleaning your pocket pistol, even if you’re not shooting it.

Why? Cause your pockets are messy.

The Typical Pocket Gun

There are two types of pocket guns. We have micro-sized automatics and J-frame-style revolvers. Both guns tend to be a little more susceptible to crud and crap. Small automatics tend to be less reliable due to their overall design. Everything in the gun has been micro-sized, which can make the short recoil systems a little more finicky in terms of reliability.

Slide weight and size, combined with proper spring tension, have to work together to work, which gets tough with small guns. These days, we do have some very well-made pocket pistols, like the LCP and S&W BG 2.0, but they are still more susceptible to failures than larger handguns.

Revolvers are a very popular pocket gun choice but are still susceptible to failure. Crud can get into the cracks and crevices of a revolver and do fun things like get under the extractor star, on the cylinder face, or in the firing pin channel, preventing the gun from working. A good pocket holster helps prevent this, but it can’t do it all!

The Pocket Gun Problem

I wash my clothes. I never wear a pair of pants for more than a day. Yet somehow, no matter what, crap gets in and seems to stay in my pockets. Gunk, debris, lint, and more accumulate in my pockets. To be fair, it accumulates everywhere, but I notice it in my pocket because it gets stuck to my gun.

My gun pocket remains empty outside of the gun, so the gun acts as a means to soak up all the crap that hermit crabs into my pocket. Beyond crud, we have to deal with the environment. Sweat is a factor; when your gun gets sweated on the crud, it will stick to it even more. A good pocket holster can reduce this but cannot eliminate it.

This is how pocket guns get filthy dirty without a shot fired. When it comes to shooting, it’s not uncommon for pocket guns to get a bit dirtier, depending on the gun. The shorter barrels leave a lot of unburnt powder, which finds its way back into the gun. Just like pocket crud, carbon, lead, and copper can reduce the reliability of pocket autos and revolvers.

Cleaning Your Little Gun

There aren’t many different things you have to do to clean a pocket gun. It’s all pretty standard. The most important thing you must remember is not to leave it drenched in lube. Wipe it down. If it’s covered in lube, crap will get stuck to it and make your problems even worse.

Besides cleaning your gun, I’m going to suggest something mind-blowing for some: Clean your holster. Most pocket holsters are textile-based, which means stuff gets stuck to them. Shoving a clean gun into a dirty holster doesn’t make much sense. Clean out your pocket holster and make sure it’s crud-free as well.

The alternative is to clean your pocket. Either way, some things gotta get cleaned.

On Glock Clones

By

P.E. Fitch

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March 31, 2025

The Glock clone market is admittedly something I don’t pay attention to much. It’s not that there’s anything wrong with them. Quite honestly, when it comes to Glocks, I’m quite happy with the fifth generation across the board. Being left-handed, their ambidextrous slide stops make me very happy.

By this point, I’ve also accumulated quite a few: 19s, 17s, 45s, and Glock 34s, of course. There’s also the odd Glock 22, 42, and the Glock 48 I carry on a regular basis.

But I am also in the business of writing about guns, and Glock clones are a force to contend with.

Because these Glock clones come in at various price points, some models do arguably offer the shooter “a better mousetrap,” so to speak, with interesting features. And yet the value of other clones is merely existing as an affordable facsimile in an extremely competitive market. The only other clone I have cursory experience with is the Shadow Systems XR-920 Elite I briefly reviewed last year.

It’s just that the subject of Glock clones got me thinking. Sometimes, as a writer, you just sit down and start writing. And that’s what I’m doing right now. Truthfully, I’m preparing to begin my upcoming formal review series here at GAT Daily on the Ruger RXM, the third-generation Glock 19 clone that Ruger manufactured in collaboration with Magpul.

I mean, there’s much to be said about Ruger’s new RXM itself.

(That’s why I’m in the process of writing a real review.)

Ruger & Magpul: The RXM

The Ruger RXM comes with an admittedly slick optics-ready system that eschews the new need for optics plates, especially for the Trijicon RMR and Leupold DeltaPoint Pro footprint patterns. I’m curious to see how it holds up long-term and under strenuous use. There’s also the fact that the Ruger RXM offers an American-made four-inch 15-round 9 mm pistol built on a reliable action for $400 retail. And at that price point, it comes with some goodies.

Beyond the fact that its slide is optics-ready from the factory, also consider the pair of iron sights that ship with the pistol. These extra-height sights consist of a serrated rear sight with a wide square notch and a bold front sight with a thick white outline that envelops a bright green tritium vial. The RXM’s sights work well with a reflex sight mounted to its slide.

Other than the action, the magazine capacity, and overall size, the RXM is a far cry from my former third-generation Glock 19.

The Glock 19

What got me thinking is that two of the biggest names in the American firearms industry came together to develop their interpretation of one of the most timeless polymer frame striker-fired pistols, the Glock 19. The Glock 19 is the gun I called remarkably unremarkable [jokingly] because it is a phenomenon of a handgun.

These handguns are compact enough that they stay out of the way and are easy to carry, yet large enough to still handle like a full-size pistol. The Glock 19 is the “Middle Path.” It’s one thing for upstarts like Shadow Systems or Rost-Martin et al. to manufacture Glock clones, but two industry behemoths coming together to produce a gun like the RXM kinda “locks it in.”

I know I’ve expressed it in some of my other writing, but this gun is “meta.” Any time it is possible to completely build a gun without having to use OEM parts, it transcends to a different level. In other words, I’m talking about building a Glock without Glock parts. Better yet, consider that most AR-15s are assembled without using Colt parts. In the past, that wasn’t possible. The AR-15 is meta, too.

Glock Clone — Shadow Systems XR 920 Elite, a premium Glock clone.

Borrowing From Glock

Putting aside straight clones, there’s also something to be said in the development of a gun that ports off the original Glock’s specs for parts compatibility and its aftermarket, especially for gun companies that aspire to design clone models that go above and beyond the original product. On paper, a gun can be great but without parts and accessories support, the gun is nothing.

From holsters to sights and recoil spring assemblies, sharing these parts in common is certainly a huge value add.

In short, before I begin my first-ever detailed review of a Glock clone, I had to appreciate how these quotidian pistols are, in fact, meta.

Still More Survival Myths – Rely on These at Your Peril

By

Jim Cobb

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March 31, 2025

It’s been a bit since we last looked at survival myths. You can read previous installments here and here. Let’s take a run at a few more.

Survival Myth #1 – Improvised Water Filters

This one routinely makes the rounds on social media. It’s also been featured in countless survival manuals. To be clear, it isn’t exactly wrong, but it’s often misunderstood and the instructions aren’t always clear about the filter’s capabilities. The configuration varies, but the gist of the filter is putting together layers of material for the water to flow through. These may include gravel, sand, and charcoal.

These filters are sometimes created using an inverted 2L bottle with the bottom cut off. The problem with this sort of filter is that while it can remove sediment and debris, it does nothing about waterborne pathogens. This isn’t always mentioned in discussions about this DIY approach. The water will still need to be boiled or chemically treated to be safe to drink.

Survival Myth #2 – Hypothermia is Only a Winter Risk

In very simplistic layman’s terms, hypothermia is what happens if you get too cold. It’s defined as your body core dropping below 95F. The body is losing more heat than it can replenish. Left untreated, it can lead to heart and/or respiratory system failure. Make no mistake, this is a serious condition. The thing is, it doesn’t only happen in the winter.

While it’s probably more common during that time of year, hypothermia can set in even in the summer. You’re on a casual summer hike and dressed in shorts and a T-shirt. You missed the weather forecast and ended up getting caught in a sudden downpour. You are soaked to the bone. As the rain moves through, the temperature goes from 75F to 65F and breezy. If you don’t find shelter and get out of your wet clothes, you’re not going to have a fun time.

Survival Myth #3 – 24 Hour Wait for Missing Persons

We see this on TV and in the movies. Someone goes missing, and when their best friend, lover, coworker, or whoever goes to the police, they’re told that the person must be missing for at least 24 hours before they’ll do anything. Out here in Big People World, that’s not the case.

Authorities want to know about a missing person as soon as possible. The faster they can act, the fresher the trail will be. This is true whether the person disappeared out on the trail or in a city.

Survival Myth #4 – Jump in a Falling Elevator

This myth is kind of silly, but I figured we’d include it anyway. The theory goes that if you’re in a falling elevator and you are able to jump up and be in midair when the elevator crashes, you’ll avoid injury. Yeah, not so much. You’re still in freefall, just like the elevator.

You might slow your speed slightly by jumping up, but it isn’t the fall that hurts. It’s the sudden stop at the end that causes problems. A better approach is to lie flat and protect your head as best you can. This will spread the force of impact across your body.

FN America PGS-001

By

Travis Pike

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March 30, 2025

FN America arms a large portion of the military. They produce my beloved M240 medium machine gun, M16s, M4s, M249s, and more. They are now aiming to arm American soldiers with a Precision Grenadier System (PGS). The US Army launched the PGS Program as part of its increased lethality plan for the future of the US Army. The FN PGS-001, as it is currently called, is FN’s entry into the program.

Barrett has also entered the program. Barrett has been a lot more open with its design, and it even showed up at SHOT Show 2025. FN is a bit more secretive with its design. It seemed to have only shown up at AUSA 2023. There isn’t much known about this precise system, but we know little about the PGS requirements.

The FN America PGS-001 and the Precision Grenadier Program

The system must weigh less than 14.5 pounds and be 34 inches long or less. It must also have an effective range of at least 500 meters.

The Contracting notice states, “The PGS will be a man-portable integrated weapon system that enables precision engagements to destroy personnel targets in defilade and in the open with increased lethality and precision compared to the legacy M203/M320 grenade launchers.”

A U.S. Army Reserve Soldier stands ready to fire the M320A1 Grenade Launcher during the Grenade Lane event at the 2021 U.S. Army Reserve Best Warrior/Best Squad Competition at Fort McCoy, Wis., May 24. Approximately 80 Soldiers from across the nation traveled to Fort McCoy to compete in the annually-recurring event running May 19-28. The competition brings in the best Soldiers and squads from across the U.S. Army Reserve to earn the title of “Best Warrior” and “Best Squad” among their peers. Competitors are evaluated on their individual and teamwork abilities to adapt and overcome challenging scenarios and battle-focused events, which test technical and tactical abilities under stress and extreme fatigue. (U.S. Army Reserve photo by Spc. Jamaal Turner Jr.)

It continues, “The PGS will provide overmatch to comparable threat grenade launchers in near-peer formations in future operating environments (jungle, urban, woodland, subterranean, desert, day/night/obscured). The PGS is envisioned to consist of a weapon, a fire control, and a suite of ammunition that enables the user to engage targets in defilade/cover, hovering UAS targets, conduct door breaching, engage close combat targets, and light armored targets.”

A Multipurpose System

This thing will have to be a multipurpose system that provides various options for a grenadier to engage multiple targets. 14.5 pounds sounds like a lot, but the XM7 will weigh almost 10 pounds, so weight isn’t a concern with Big Army. From the contract listing of the PGS-001, we can gather that it will likely have an HEDP round, a buckshot round for close quarters and door breaching, and even a drone engagement cartridge.

These are steep demands, but this idea isn’t new. The Army tried this type of program with the OICW and, later, its evolution, the XM-25. The idea of a precision grenade launcher has been kicking around for decades. The counter-defilade capabilities translate to air burst cartridges, which allow grenadiers to quickly engage targets hiding behind cover, in trenches, and more.

The FN PGS-001

The FN PGS-001 looks more like an assault rifle than a grenade launcher. Its overall layout resembles an assault rifle from G.I. Joe or a 90s Marvel comic. The FN PGS-001 features a SCAR-like look, with what appears to be a folding and collapsing stock and what appears to be a cheek riser.

The PGS-001 has a massive optics rail across the top of the gun and will likely use a computer fire control-style optic like the XM157. You’ll need some means to program grenades for air burst, and a smart optic could do so.

The PGS-001 features a handguard that appears to have M-LOK slots and a modular design. In front of that handguard sits a massive muzzle device. The brake design looks like it came off a .50 BMG rifle. This will likely help reduce recoil but might significantly increase volume and muzzle flash.

The PGS-001 appears to be a semi-auto design. It’s magazine-fed, with a charging handle placed above the barrel. It’s unclear what the size of the grenade is, but I’m guessing they are 30mm. That seems to be the sweet spot for range and firepower potential the Army wants. I wouldn’t be shocked if they were 25mm, but I can’t say for sure.

Throwing Nades

The Precision Grenadier System is an excellent weapon for the average infantry squad. It addresses the issues with the standard 40mm grenades and will provide nearly 150 meters more range than the classic 40mm grenade launcher. Will the PGS-001 win? It remains to be seen, but this is the first time I’ve ever seen an Army project, and I thought it was a fantastic idea.

Cleavers for Camp & Kitchen

By

Reuben Bolieu

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March 29, 2025

GAT_Cleavers (1) — PB&J Handmade Knives Veggie Cleaver with a 7-inch long blade and 15N20 blade steel. Made in the USA from bandsaw steel and crafted by three guys who love cooking and knives.

Get ready to unleash your inner chef and wood-chopping warrior with these two incredible Cleavers for Camp & Kitchen! These powerhouse blades are designed for serious work, whether you’re whipping up delicious Chinese dishes or tackling outdoor adventures. Let’s dive into the excitement of these versatile tools that elevate your culinary game and empower your outdoor skills!

Expat Cleaver for Camp

The chef used the cleaver to make an entire chicken soup. He quartered the chicken and chopped all the vegetables, and the CL-1 delivered excellent performance.

Expat Knives, a division of ESEE Knives, offers high-quality knives from various global regions. Their first collaboration is the American-made CL-1 cleaver, crafted in Idaho. This durable cleaver combines traditional materials like High Carbon 1095 steel with modern technology and features a thick leather sheath. It’s a versatile tool for camp and kitchen use and is ideal for prepping meal ingredients.

My first impression of the cleaver was its impressive heft. Unlike a typical light-weight Chinese cleaver, this one boasted a 6 1/4-inch blade and weighed 25 ounces, perfect for making my favorite chicken soup. In winter’s chill, I quartered a whole chicken, using the cleaver’s sharp edge to cut through joints and chop bones. It effortlessly handled the backbone and the drumstick ends without nicking or dulling.

The Expat cleaver should be a staple in your chef’s arsenal whether your kitchen is indoors or outdoors.

Preparing the soup required more than just chicken. First, I chopped potatoes, carrots, celery, onions, parsley, and garlic. I appreciated the cleaver’s weight as I used my usual scoring technique, then rocking the blade to achieve nice dicing. I kept the vegetables in larger chunks for the soup, while the cleaver easily chopped herbs and handled a frozen lamb bone without damaging the edge.

Cleaver Meets Wood

The weight on this bad boy was perfect for splitting wood and was similar to using a Japanese Nata (hatchet). I split wood easily for a small wood stove, and the cleaver felt like a hatchet. The thick spine aided in splitting with minimal effort.

The Expat Cleaver felt like a hatchet when splitting small wooden rounds for a wood stove.

PB&J Cleaver for the Kitchen

I encountered a table of rustic knives featuring a large parang at a knife trade show. The sign read PB&J Handmade Knives, Made in the USA. The name caught my attention because I loved peanut butter and jelly as a kid. Phillip Jones, Barry Jones (brothers), and Jake Kirks run PB&J.

The Cleaver features a 7-inch traditional chef’s knife size and an overall length of 11 ½ inches, with a 3/32-inch thick spine perfect for slicing. Made from bandsaw steel, it’s suitable for kitchen knives, filleting knives, woodworking tools, and swords. It often pairs with 15n20, 1095, or 1084 steel for pattern-welded “Damascus” steel.

The PB&J Veggie Cleaver has a full convex grind for efficient cutting. Its attractive handle combines brown crosscut canvas micarta scales with vibrant blue G-10 liners, secured with brass pins for added class.

Camp Hobo Pack

To prepare this foil-pack dish, I scored the salmon skin with a sharp knife for even cooking. I cut the carrots small as they take longer to cook, aligning their timing with the salmon and asparagus. Using a simple round cutting board in the woods, I found the PB&J Veggie Cleaver essential for this dish and many others.

Here’s an outdoor meal made by the author with the PB&J Handmade Knives Veggie Cleaver. This cleaver excels both indoors and outdoors!

Chili & Chicken Soup

I used the PB&J Veggie Cleaver to make a fantastic chili con carne. I prepped onions, garlic, celery, bell peppers, ground beef, crushed tomatoes, kidney beans, and black beans. The cleaver, weighing 11 ounces with a full tang, felt comfortable to use and had a sharp, curved edge for smoother chopping.

I began with a chicken leg, easily separating the thigh from the drumstick and removing the backbone to boost flavor. Deboning with the cleaver was efficient, preserving meat while enhancing the dish. Slicing celery, onions, and carrots was just as effortless, showcasing the cleaver’s effectiveness.

These two powerhouse Cleavers for Camp & Kitchen passed my field tests in the forest and kitchen. Give them a try, and you’ll be a believer!

For more information, check out ESEE and PB&J Knives!

Gathering Intelligence: Making Social Media Work for You in a Crisis

By

Jim Cobb

-

March 29, 2025

By definition, you can’t make an informed decision without information. Accurate information is vital when it comes to disaster mitigation and response. Acting blindly could put you and your family at risk. This is a rare instance where social media can actually be helpful.

For the purposes of our discussion, I’m focusing on Facebook, but there are other apps/sites that could serve similar purposes.

Before we go any further, let’s get this out of the way. Yes, there are absolutely going to be situations where you’ll be unable to access social media. But not every crisis or disaster is going to be a grid down scenario. Make use of the tools available to you at the time. If you’re able to get on Facebook, here are some ways it could be useful to you.

Obtain Local Information

Scanners like this one are pricey, but for some folks listening to calls is a fun hobby. Photo credit: Amazon.

Social media can be a great way to get boots-on-the-ground intelligence. In many areas, people have established what are colloquially called scanner pages. Here’s how they work. One or more people spend time every day listening to radio traffic via a scanner. They post to the page dispatch calls for police, fire, and rescue. This information could help you put together a picture of what’s actually happening around you.

Where this really shines is when people will comment on the posted calls, sharing first-person accounts of what’s happening. For example, if there’s a bad storm front moving through the area, people might post about the intensity of the rainfall/snowfall, the road conditions, and such. You can use this information to determine how you want to proceed in your own situation.

Seek or Render Assistance

In the wake of a disaster, many people need help with everything from rescues to supply drops. Social media can be one way for these people to communicate their needs and arrange for assistance. By the same token, if you’re in a good position to do so, you can monitor social media and watch for people you can help.

Perhaps someone in the neighborhood is in dire need of diapers for their baby, and you happen to have half a box left from when your grandchild spent the weekend. If the shoe is on the other foot and you’re the one in need, you can use social media to reach out and hopefully connect with a person or agency that can help.

Many other social media apps can be helpful.

Communicate with Family and Friends

Quite often, cell phone traffic overwhelms cell service providers after a disaster hits. That stands to reason, given how many people are trying to get through to others. Calls get dropped or don’t go through at all. Texting is often better, but even that isn’t guaranteed.

If you’re able to get online, you can use social media to connect with family or friends. This could be through posts, such as just a blanket, “We’re okay.” Alternately, you could use the messaging feature and reach out to people individually.

Social media isn’t as “social” as it could be, but it can still be a valuable tool in some situations.

Desert Gun Leather NAA Pocket Holster Review

By

Tim Stetzer

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March 28, 2025

I like small guns, and I cannot lie. Although I have my share of duty guns and compact EDC pistols, I’ve always had a thing for mouse guns. I bought a North American Arms .22 Magnum mini revolver shortly after I turned 21 and have had one version or another ever since. Most recently, I picked up a swing-out cylinder Sentinel model. When I went looking for holsters, I found that there actually weren’t a lot available for the Sentinel. I did, however, run across Desert Gun Leather, and I’m glad that I did.

The NAA Pocket Holster

Desert Gun Leather is run by Rick Jorgenson out in Anthem, Arizona. Rick makes inside (IWB) and outside (OWB) the waistband holsters for a bunch of different guns, but he has a whole section on his website dedicated to North American Arms mini-revolvers as well.

For the NAA, he does IWB and OWB holsters, as well as pocket holsters. Being that I’ve carried my previous NAAs for the past 30-plus years in a pocket holster, that’s what I was looking to get for the Sentinel as well.

My previous holsters were molded to the gun and had a leather tab that protruded to the side to keep the gun upright in your pocket. The holsters I’ve used over the years used that tab space for a pouch to carry five extra rounds of ammo. I know I won’t be speed-loading a mini revolver, but I liked having a reload available just in case.

While Desert Gun Leather had a similar style available, another holster they had caught me eye. That one was the NAA Pocket Holster with Speedloader Pocket. Yep, you read that right—a speed loader pocket.

A Speedloader for a Mini?

I’ll be honest. The speedloader caught me by surprise. You don’t really think about speed-loading a mini revolver, but it makes sense. Although you aren’t likely to be using your mini in a prolonged firefight, it’s still a handy way to keep five rounds together for easy carry and loading. Especially with a pocket holster that has a built-in speedloader pouch. I always carry a reload for whatever gun I’m carrying, even the little ones.

The NAA Speedloader is available for the small frame .22Short/LR NAA revolvers. There are also two separate versions for the large frame NAA’s, one for .22 LR and one for .22 Magnum. The price is $17.00, regardless of size.

Speedloader Function

The unit itself is made from plastic and uses a spring that wraps around a groove in the loader. When you load the speedloader, you slip the rims of the rounds under the spring and it adds tension to hold them in place. With a standard NAA Mini revolver, you pull the cylinder pin and dump the empty rounds. Then, line up the speedloader with the chambers and push the release button forward to release the rounds. You can load the top break NAAs pretty much the same way. I tried it with my older NAA Black Widow, and it works well.

When I ordered, Rick did tell me that there’s not a lot of clearance for the speedloader with the swing out cylinder Sentinels. I still thought it would be a handy way to carry ammo, though, so I went ahead and got the pocket holster with the speedloader pouch and one speedloader.

With the factory rubber grips Rick is correct. You kind of have to angle the speedloader in to line it up with the cylinder chambers. It works but is a little sticky.

I swapped my grips out to the NAA wood boot grips not long after getting the gun. Those are a little thinner than the rubber grip. I found that with those, the speedloader clearance was much better. You’re never going to get a fast reload like you would with a K, or even a J frame, Smith. Still, it’s faster than carrying loose rounds in a pouch and thumbing them in one at a time.

It carries nicely in the holster pouch, too, so when you grab your Sentinel, you have the gun and 10 rounds of ammo ready to stuff in your pocket.

Back to the NAA Pocket Holster

With the speedloader determining which pocket holster I got, I just had to decide on the details. The holsters are made from 7/8oz vegetable-tanned grade #1 leather from the Wickett & Craig Tannery in PA. Being a Pennsylvania guy, I appreciate that.

You can pick right or left-handed models and your choice of color. Chestnut, Brown, Mahogany, and Black are available. I ended up with a mahogany one. There’s an even longer list of thread colors available. My holster has orange thread, which contrasts nicely with the deep, rich color of the leather.

The price of the NAA Pocket Holster with Speedloader Pouch is right at $100.00.

The Desert Gun Leather holster is superbly made. The leather quality and finish are excellent, and the stitching and edge work are perfect. The hoster is boned and wet molded to the Sentinel, which provides retention.

The trigger is fully enclosed, as is the hammer, ensuring the gun can’t accidentally get cocked or fire when putting the holster in and out of the pocket. This also keeps any other junk you may have in your pocket from engaging the hammer or trigger. Personally, if I’m carrying a pocket pistol, I don’t tend to put anything else in that pocket, but it has happened on occasion.

The NAA Pocket Holster is designed to fit in either the front or rear pockets of most pants, and it’ll drop into a jacket pocket easily as well. The holster rides high enough to keep the hammer from snagging but gives enough clearance for the grip. That allows you to use aftermarket grips and have enough space to get a two-finger grip on the gun for the draw.

As you draw, you press down on the top of the holster above the hammer with your thumb to “pop” the gun free of the molded retention. As the gun comes out, the extended portion where the speedloader pouch is should catch the edge of the pocket to keep the holster in place.

Back-Up and EDC

I’ve had my Sentinel and Desert Gun Leather Pocket Holster for about 2 months now, and I’ve carried it a good bit. Either as a backup to my regular carry gun or for those quick trips where I probably don’t need a gun but take one with me anyway. It carries nicely in jeans and cargo pants and even casual dress slacks.

It also works well in the outside pocket of a winter jacket. That’s a nice option when your primary carry gun is on your belt or in an IWB rig under layers of winter clothes. The pocket gun gives you at least something easily accessible to buy you time to get to your primary piece.

The NAA Pocket Holster with speed loader pouch has worked out well. It’s an extremely well-made holster, and you can tell a lot of thought and skill went into making it. It has gorgeous lines and execution, but it also functions just as it should. The speed loader pouch helps break up the shape of the gun in your pocket. It also keeps the gun oriented upwards.

The holster covers everything that needs to be covered for safe carry. However, it still allows you enough space to get a solid grip for your draw. The retention is the right balance between keeping the gun secure and still being able to draw smoothly.

If you need a quality holster for your NAA mini, I would definitely give Desert Gun Leather a close look. While nylon and kydex holsters may function fine, there’s something about handcrafted leather that they just can’t touch.

The Clingman – Taylor Martin’s Debut Design

By

Jim Cobb

-

March 28, 2025

It was only a matter of time before Taylor Martin came out with his own knife design. His YouTube channel, Best Damn EDC, is wildly popular. Since its debut, he’s reviewed countless knives, in addition to a myriad of other EDC gear. The Clingman is the first knife he has designed, though I suspect he has more in the works.

While I only discovered his YouTube channel a few months ago, I’ve become a big fan of his work. When I learned that the Clingman was available for purchase, I snapped one up. It’s available in a few different color options, and I went with the burgundy G10 handle. Other options include brown Micarta, green Micarta, or black G10.

The question comes down to this: Is the Clingman the Best Damn EDC knife?

Clingman Specifications

Martin partnered with CIVIVI to produce the Clingman. This is my first CIVIVI knife. Well, that’s not entirely accurate. I received a small box of different knives in a trade about a year ago. But those were all traded off fairly quickly.

Anyway, let’s take a look at the Clingman. It has an overall length of 7.01 inches. The blade is 2.99 inches. Closed, it’s 4.02 inches long. It features a titanium pocket clip. All told, it weighs 2.8 ounces.

The Clingman’s clip point blade has a hollow grind, and is made from Nitro-V steel with a Rockwell hardness of 59-61. The blade on this one has a black stonewashed finish. You’ll find Martin’s YouTube channel logo featured on the obverse side of the blade.

It opens via a thumb stud or front flipper. There’s a liner lock to keep the blade in place until you’re ready to close it.

As I noted earlier, I went with the burgundy G10 scales when I ordered the Clingman. The handle has a subtle checkered texturing.

Clingman Performance

I’ll say upfront that I can do a lot of things, and I can do a few of those things pretty well, but using a front flipper on a knife isn’t on that list. That said, using the thumb stud to open the Clingman is smooth and easy. The blade snaps open just about as fast as it might if it were an assisted opening knife. There is a thumb stud on each side of the blade, so you left-handers won’t feel left out. Likewise, users can swap the pocket clip from one side to the other as needed.

The liner lock engages the blade fully. No knife lock is to be trusted 100%, but this one gives me a good bit of confidence. It’s a little stiff to disengage, but I feel that will loosen up a bit over time. Open, the blade is rock solid, with no movement side to side or back to front at all.

Clingman liner lock — The liner lock fully engages the blade, providing a solid lockup.

The blade was razor-sharp right out of the box. It’s also held that edge very well through several days of regular use. The 90-degree spine isn’t quite LT Wright sharp (if you know, you know), but it strikes sparks from a Ferro rod easily enough.

The handle is very comfortable. It has a slight curve, which helps to lock the knife into the hand. The front of the handle is contoured to help with this as well. The Clingman is very ergonomic overall. The pocket clip is flat and doesn’t dig into the palm while the knife is in use. The handle is thin enough that you can pinch-grip the knife without it feeling awkward. It’s also just long enough to get all four fingers around it.

It’s light enough that it won’t weigh you down but not so lightweight that it feels cheap or flimsy. This is the kind of knife you take to work and beat the hell out of all day long without worrying whether it’ll hold up.

So, is the Clingman the Best Damn EDC knife? It’s definitely in the running, and it’s certainly worth the price, that’s for sure. Blade HQ has it on sale for about $63 right now. If you end up paying full price, that’s still just $72-74, depending on the handle material.

Work Sharp Field Sharpeners

By

Reuben Bolieu

-

March 27, 2025

P3120541 — Three Cool Work Sharp Field Sharpeners. Meet the Guided Field Sharpener (Top), Folding Field Sharpener, and Pivot Plus Knife Sharpeners.

Sharp tools are essential for safety and effectiveness in any outdoor adventure—hiking, camping, or exploring. Cool Work Sharp Field Sharpeners offer compact, lightweight solutions to keep your knives and tools razor-sharp. Stay prepared and make the most of your experience because a sharp tool is a safe tool!

Work Sharp Pivot Plus Knife Sharpener

Get Ready to Slice and Dice Like a Pro! Transform your dull blades into razor-sharp precision tools with Work Sharp’s Convex-Carbide sharpening stage. With just a few quick steps, you’ll breathe new life into your knives and be ready to conquer any cutting task that comes your way.

Need to tackle serrations or fix up those edges? The tapered diamond rod has got your back. This sharpener is your go-to, no-fuss solution for a sharp knife wherever your culinary adventures take you! Weight: 1.2 ounces

Convex-Carbide

Sharpen knives to a robust, long-lasting convex cutting edge.

Ceramic Honing Rods

Refine and re-sharpen any knife quickly with a pull-through hone.

Diamond Taper Rod

Sharpen serrations, touch up edge tools, or bypass pruners.

The Work Sharp Pivot Plus Knife Sharpener is a convenient pull-through-style sharpener and honing tool in one.

Tips

Slide the red button left to activate Pivot Response. This allows the convex carbide mechanism to follow the curve of the blade and increase material removal for heavy sharpening. Slide the red button right to lock out Pivot Response: this will reduce material takeoff and is better suited for lighter sharpening applications.
Use only the ceramic hone for re-sharpening
Serrations can also be sharpened using the ceramic hone – lay the flat side of the serrations onto the ceramic rod and use very light pressure to deburr.
Fine-edged hand tools like garden pruners can be sharpened using a tapered diamond rod. Using light pressure, swipe the abrasive across the beveled side of the cutting edge and continue until sharp.

Folding Field Sharpener

Grab your Phone, Wallet, and Keys, and don’t forget the Folding Field Sharpener! This Work Sharp gem is not just ultra-compact and lightweight—it’s basically the ninja of knife sharpeners, ready to leap into action wherever you go. With built-in guides, it makes sharpening and honing on those diamond and ceramic plates a breeze.

Its folding design and handy pocket clip mean you can take it on every adventure, whether heading out to the field, backcountry, or camp. Keep those knives sharp and ready for anything life throws your way. Make Sharp Happen! Weight: 2 ounces.

Diamond & Ceramic Plates

Fast cutting and long-lasting 400 grit diamond and fine ceramic hone.

Angle Guides

Maintain a consistent angle when sharpening and honing.

Folding Design

Ultra-lightweight folding design allows for daily carry in your pocket or pack.

The Folding Field Sharpener design is ultra-lightweight and folds flat for daily carry in your pocket or pack.

Tips

Hold the sharpener by the opposite handle you are sharpening to reduce the risk of injury. Do not rest the tool on yourself when in use.
Use the Ceramic side of the Sharpener as a handle while sharpening on the Diamond Abrasive.
After you sharpen a blade once, it can be re-sharpened (touch-ups) using only the fine ceramic plate. After several touch-ups, it may take longer to re-sharpen. A few strokes on the diamond will re-shape the edge if this occurs.
Use the fine ceramic plate for blade applications requiring a very fine edge for delicate cutting or shaving.

Work Sharp’s Folding Field Sharpener has a super fine ceramic hone and suggested angle guide for honing like a champ!

Guided Field Sharpener

A Long-Time Best Seller of the Work Sharp Field Sharpeners. This sharpener is your ultimate sidekick if you’re after razor-sharp edges during your outdoor escapades. Precision-engineered and feature-packed, it guarantees top-notch blade performance no matter where your adventures take you.

You’ll be ready for anything with angle guides that lock in a precise 20° edge on coarse and fine-grit diamond plates and 25° guides for fine ceramic honing. And when it’s time to polish those edges back to perfection, the leather strop has your back. Need to sharpen fish hooks? No problem—Work Sharp’s specialized ceramic rod is up to the task.

The diamond plates, securely held by magnets, let you sharpen all kinds of tools without breaking a sweat. Plus, there’s a discreet storage spot for a broadhead wrench. So get ready to conquer every adventure with the Guided Field Sharpener by your side! Weight: 4.6 ounces.

Angle Guides

Maintain a consistent angle when sharpening and honing.

Diamond Abrasives

Fast cutting and long-lasting 220 and 600-grit diamond.

Ceramic Hone & Leather Strop

Fine ceramic and leather strop remove the burr and restore sharpness.

A rounded ceramic hone gets into the recurve of a kukri thanks to the Guided Field Sharpener.

Tips

After you sharpen a blade once, it can be re-sharpened (touch-ups) using only the fine ceramic rod and/or leather. After several touch-ups, it may take longer to re-sharpen. If this occurs, a few strokes on the fine diamond will re-shape the edge.
Only use the coarse diamond to repair chips, change the bevel angle, or sharpen tools.
Use the coarse (ribbed) ceramic rod for blade applications requiring heavy use, such as rope cutting or bushcraft. The edge created has ‘toothiness’ and will provide a robust, long-lasting edge.
Use the fine (smooth) ceramic rod and/or leather strop for blade applications requiring a very fine edge for delicate cutting or shaving

These three cool Work Sharp Field Sharpeners are easy to use, yet hard to pick just one. Which would you pick?

For more information, please check out Work Sharp!

CJRB Maximal – High Quality Performance on a Budget

By

Jim Cobb

-

March 27, 2025

When I heard David C. Andersen had designed the Maximal to be an affordable but high-performing EDC option, my first thought was that if anyone could pull that off, it’d be him. Andersen knows his knives. I mean, c’mon, there’s a reason he’s been working for KnifeCenter for years.

Prior to that, he wrote for The Truth About Knives, one of the most popular knife-centric blogs around. He’s probably handled more knives than a dozen regular folks will in their lifetimes.

I’ve been a fan of his work for quite a while. The Lapwing, produced under Andersen’s Nordsmith Knives brand, is one of my favorite fixed blades. Andersen produced the Maximal in partnership with CJRB. When he asked if I’d be interested in checking out the Maximal, I jumped at the opportunity.

Maximal Specifications

They went with AR-RPM9 stainless steel for the knife. This is my first experience with this steel, so I did a little homework. This is a CJRB proprietary steel. Here’s what they say about the steel on their website:

“AR-RPM9 is powder-form stainless steel with properties that make it ideal for daily-carry knives. Boasting high hardness and superior toughness thanks to the powdering process, AR-RPM9 stands toe-to-toe with several premium steel varieties and surpasses many of them in overall durability and corrosion resistance….“

The drop-point blade is 2.95 inches long. Fully open, the Maximal is 6.89 inches from end to end. It’s available in a few different handle configurations, including red G10, green Micarta, and dark gray carbon fiber. Each of the models I tested weighed in around 2.8-3.0 ounces. In hand, they feel like they’re a little hefty for the size. But this gives an impression of solidity to the knife rather than detracting from it.

Crossbar Lock

The Maximal is equipped with a Crossbar lock. I feel that this is one of the safest locking mechanisms in the knife world. For those not familiar, when the blade rotates into the open position, it locks into place. To close, you pull back on the Crossbar to unlock it. The blade then falls closed on its own. This means you don’t endanger any fingers.

With a little practice, you can use the Crossbar to open the knife, too. Pull back on the lock and flick your wrist to send the blade into position.

Ambidextrous

Andersen was sure to cover all the bases with the Maximal design. There is a thumb stud on either side of the spine. The Crossbar is also accessible on both sides of the knife. The pocket clip can be switched from one side to the other by undoing two screws.

Performance

I’ve been playing around with the Maximal for several days. So far, I’m pretty impressed. The fit and finish are impeccable. The blade is perfectly centered. When open, there is zero wiggle or wobble with the blade. The handle is contoured comfortably, and it includes an integral finger guard. I’m able to get a full four fingers on it, too, which is always appreciated.

I’ve used it for breaking down boxes, slicing sausage and cheese for my granddaughter, opening plastic blister packs, and cutting lengths of paracord, among other things. The Maximal handles like a dream. It holds an edge very well and is still razor-sharp.

Perhaps the best part of the whole package is the price. The Maximal runs a mere $50. I’ve had lesser quality knives that retailed for three times that price. Each one comes with a nice zippered case, too.

The Maximal absolutely punches way above its weight class. Highly recommended.

You can find it at KnifeCenter.

Bird and Trout Knives for EDC

By

Reuben Bolieu

-

March 26, 2025

GAT_BTK (1) — Take a closer look at these four sleek and versatile Bird and Trout knives, perfect for your next outdoor adventure. White River (Top), Case, TOPS, and ESEE Knives.

A bird and trout knife is a handy little companion for hunters and anglers. These compact, fixed-blade knives are the go-to tools for keeping things portable and convenient. Bird and Trout Knives for EDC are perfect for slipping into a backpack or pocket. Their name comes from the love outdoor enthusiasts have for this trusty blade, making it a reliable sidekick for hunting, fishing, and EDC adventures!

TOPS BTK for EDC

Meet the TOPS BTK ( Bird and Trout knife), designed by the talented Allen Jensen, aka the Axeman. TOPS crafted this little gem to process small game and fish, like squirrels, rabbits, birds, and trout. This stainless steel knife flaunts a stonewash finish and a black canvas Micarta handle—ideal for camping, kitchen tasks, and outdoor adventures.

Its multi-grip handle makes it perfect for skinning tough hides like bear and beaver. With a 3.00-inch blade, a thickness of 0.130, and an overall length of 6.75 inches, it’s lightweight at just 3.5 oz and comes with a sleek black leather sheath and belt loop. Practicality never looked this sharp!

MSRP: $175.00

The author grilled fresh salmon, asparagus, and carrots in the woods using the TOPS BTK knife, a small, familiar kitchen/butcher knife.

Bird and Trout Knife from Lake to Plate

The BTK stands out as the most approachable fixed blade in the lineup. With its cleverly upswept blade, it knows how to tackle food prep—perfect for cooking on your feet. The 440C Cryo-treated blade arrived razor-sharp and made quick work of everything, especially when I took on a fresh piece of salmon.

Using it to scale the fish was a breeze; the upsweep skillfully avoided tearing the fillet, allowing me to create the crispiest skin you can imagine. It’s highly recommended for those seeking Bird and Trout Knives for EDC.

The TOPS BTK knife is an excellent EDC for the woods. Its thick blade easily cuts through green witch hazel. Its 440C cryo-treated blade ensures reliability.

The handle’s ergonomic design ensures a firm grip, even when slippery. Plus, the scales stop short of the blade, which lets you choke up for skinning without a hitch.

The choice of black leather for the sheath is spot-on; it cleverly disguises any food or game stains. The heavy-duty sheath features a basic belt loop, but it could use a drain hole—got to keep things tidy!

Case Mini Finn Bird and Trout for EDC

The Mini Finn is the little dynamo tucked inside the Case Leather Hunter Two Knife Hunting Set. This sturdy, no-nonsense fixed-blade knife is your trusty sidekick for all outdoor escapades—from hunting to hiking. A 3.13-inch clip-point blade and a polished leather handle ensure you have a firm grip when the going gets tough.

Crafted from Case Tru-Sharp™ stainless steel, it laughs in the face of corrosion. This compact champ measures 6.5 inches overall and weighs a mere 2.5 ounces, making it perfect for tackling small game. Plus, it has a stylish, genuine leather sheath to keep it safe when you’re not busy impressing everyone with your outdoor skills. For many, it’s the ideal EDC Bird and Trout Knife.

Chicken is always in season. The Case Mini FINN easily slices through dense breast, onions, and peppers for chicken kabobs, a personal favorite.

Mini Finn for EDC Use

Right out of the gate, this blade proves sharp and agile, with a perfect concave grind for any task. Its one-inch serrated spine adds grip for those who like it firm. It sliced through chicken for kabobs like a champion and quickly zipped through green witch hazel for tent stakes. This performance makes it a standout Bird and Trout Knife.

The handle stands out, channeling the Western Cutlery style and the nostalgia of early 1900s Finnish craftsmanship. It features a decent finger guard and room for three fingers, although the butt cap can be a bit awkward in a sideways grip.

Sharpening a stick is a basic knife task. The Case Mini Finn easily handles this when making stakes.

Completing the package is a simple, genuine leather sheath that can attach to a thin belt or hang as a neck knife with a cord—and yes, it even has a drain hole. It may not be flashy, but hey, if it works, why mess with a classic?

MSRP: $82.99

These two Bird and Trout Knives are hard to beat for EDC. Between the classic rustic Case Mini Finn and the modern TOPS BTK, you have two winners to choose from!

For more information, please contact Case and TOPS Knives!

The Modern Technique in 2025

By

Travis Pike

-

March 26, 2025

I’ve been reading a lot of the older tomes of firearms knowledge. I aim to understand firearms training from the beginning to better understand where it is now. In this study, the name Jeff Cooper will be used frequently. He was the father of the modern fighting pistol. His creation of the Modern Technique formed the groundwork for the modern training techniques we use today.

The Modern Technique incorporates a bit of everything. It’s a holistic approach that combines drawing, reloading, and shooting with a dash of mindset and essential information, such as knowledge of handgun wounding ballistics. While it’s not often referred to as the Modern Technique, many parts of it are still being used today.

The Modern Technique was immortalized in a textbook. Gregory Morrison Boyce wrote the textbook, with Jeff Cooper acting as advisor and editor. The book is out of print but still fairly easy to find on the internet. Although the Modern Technique originated in the 1950s, this textbook wasn’t put together until 1991, which might make it the most finalized record of the Modern Technique.

Reviewing the Modern Technique

I won’t review every page like a YouTuber making a video essay about Lost. Instead, I want to focus on three aspects of the textbook. First, the information must be valid and still in use. Second, the information is outdated simply because times have changed. Finally, the third portion of the review will focus on the information I didn’t think was oh-so valuable then or now.

The good news is that there is very little to disagree with. The Modern Technique is still worth reading and delivers much good information. If you still regularly use the term Stopping Power, you should read the Modern Technique. It might open up your eyes.

The Modern Technique – What’s Still Valid

Tons of information pulled from the text are still valid. In fact, much of it seemed to be forgotten, only to be rediscovered recently. Take, for example, the idea of a flash-sight picture. It doesn’t seem all that different from our modern concept of using a target-focused fighting style that uses a somewhat blurry front sight.

The four rules of firearms safety haven’t changed. In fact, as far as I know, the Modern Technique more or less codified the four rules. It also clearly says that accidental discharges are more than likely negligent discharges due to the user.

We dive into situational awareness, which is still valid. Using our eyes and ears hasn’t changed much. The Modern Technique advises you to be flexible and not rigid in solving your tactical problems.

We deal with corners and doorways and come across the classic pie—the doorway. The idea between dynamic and methodical ebbs back and forth for CQB, but pieing cover seems universal. Another interesting portion talks about moving and shooting. The Modern Technique advises you to move, then shoot.

More and More Good Stuff

Gun culture went through a moving and shooting phase, but we’ve seemed to settle back on the shoot and then move. Reloads haven’t changed, and the index finger still guides the front of the magazine into the gun.

Outside of tactics, we get an education on weapon readiness conditions, which are widely used today. They go over the different tasks for strong and dominant hands. Most of it seems like stuff everyone knows, but it’s important to note that the Modern Technique helped make this the stuff everyone knows.

Springfield’s loaded 1911 is a good mix of features.

We discuss how handgun bullets cause harm, and the information is very modern. It properly details how handgun bullets only damage via direct contact. It correctly states that penetration matters most, and things like energy deposit, shocking power, and hydrostatic shock don’t exist with handguns.

My all-time favorite line discusses how police qualifications and scores don’t matter when they don’t coordinate with real-world gunfight performance.

Outdated Information

There is some information that’s right for the era, but after over three decades, the times have changed. There isn’t much here to detail because much of the Modern Technique remains viable.

The author discusses jacketed hollow points and how they can often interrupt adequate penetration. In 1991, projectile designs that allow for great penetration and expansion were not available.

There is also a section on upgrades that advises against using optics on combat handguns. In 1991, guys were throwing great, big red dots on their competition handguns, but those setups weren’t reliable enough for duty or defensive use at the time.

We also see the old-school 1911 press check, which involves pressing your index finger under the barrel. Although it’s not taught today, it was a product of the time.

Did dummy ammo not exist in 1991? I ask because the author advises against dry fire practice malfunctions due to safety concerns.

The Modern Technique does rely on the Weaver stance a fair bit, which was quite revolutionary for the era.

Finally, my favorite line states, “Time will tell on the utility of nylon and plastic defensive shooting gear.” He was right, and time did tell on their utility.

The Not-So-Great Information

Some information from the Modern Technique wasn’t viable in the era. I’m willing to be wrong, but much of this was outdated back then. For example, they seem to hate the idea of additional capacity in your gun and how it’s not needed. They also advise you to carry a reload for your revolver or 1911. It seems silly to be against magazine capacity, but pro carrying a reload.

In that same line of thinking, they say a big-bore six-shot revolver would be a better choice than a modern 9mm with a double-stack magazine. There is a caveat that you have a six-shot big-bore revolver with training from Jeff Cooper. I’d rather have the training and the 9mm with 15 rounds.

In fact, even though they advocate for shot placement, they claim big bores are the only option for gunfighting, which we know is kind of silly these days. There is also a big preference towards the two-shot and reassess as an almost Biblical commandment.

The Modern Technique advocates for the slingshot method to close the slide. This might be necessary for older guns, but the slide release is faster to use with a modern gun.

Finally, there was a holstered magazine change designed for range use. I’ve never seen that, and most modern holsters will cover the magazine release anyway.

The Modern Technique Now

I think any serious gun student should read this textbook. It’s a quick read, even if the author needs 75 words to say, “If your revolver doesn’t fire, pull the trigger again.” The book still has excellent advice and is a great way to learn even the basics today.