X2 Dev Group’s AR-X Lightfighter rifles are impressive for their light weight, features, and accuracy. Now, home builders can take advantage of the core of the Lightfighter—the Trident barrel.
The Trident Barrel
X2’s Trident barrel offers excellent rigidity with its fluted barrel. Those barrel flutes also make it much lighter than other comparable barrels. In fact, the Tridents weigh less than many carbon fiber barrels and offer superior heat dispersion.
Rather than having multiple builds for different roles, the Trident lets you have it all. You gain the advantages of a lightweight barrel for handling and target acquisition while retaining a heavy barrel’s improved accuracy and heat dispersion capabilities.
X2 Dev Group’s Trident is chambered in .223 Wylde and has a 1/8 twist. Three barrel lengths are available. A 16″ Mid Length Gas System, a 14.5″ Mid Length Gas System, or a 12.5″ Carbine +1 Length Gas System version. The Tridents are made from 416R Stainless steel and have a black Nitride coating for corrosion resistance. They have M4 feed ramps and one 1/2×28 muzzle threads.
X2 Dev Group offers a Sub-MOA Guarantee on the Tridents with quality ammunition. The rigidity makes them excellent platforms for suppressor mounting as well. The I-beam construction of the barrel flutes not only lightens the weight but also ensures consistency and minimal POI shift. They also help to dissipate heat along the barrel and reduce heat soak and stress. This enhances POI predictability even through long strings of fire.
X2 Dev Group Trident Barrel Specifications:
Length: 16”, 14.5” and 12.5” Weight: 16”- 21.5oz, 14.5”- 20.0oz,12.5” – 17.8oz Caliber: .223 Wylde Twist Rate: 1:8 Gas System Length: 16”- Mid, 14.5”- Mid, and 12.5”- Carbine +1 Gas Block Journal: .750” Material: Nitrided 416R Stainless Barrel Extension: Nitrided w/M4 Feed Ramps Muzzle: 1/2×28 Threaded MSRP: $549.00
My friend Jayberry Miller from Tuff Possum Gear coined the phrase “talismans of safety” a while back. Tell you what, he’s a pretty smart guy. He’s also quite a talented maker.
Better Than Nothing
Before we dive into talismans of safety, let’s talk for a minute about the “better than nothing” approach to preparedness. You see that phrase a lot in various prepper forums. It’s often used to validate or justify the purchase of less-than-ideal gear. “It isn’t great, but it’s better than nothing.”
The problem is that this approach can lead to complacency. Here’s what often happens. Joe buys a prepackaged bug-out bag from some discount retailer. It costs him about fifty bucks, and he thinks it was a pretty good deal. While the kit isn’t exactly what he wants, he figures it’s better than nothing, and he’ll upgrade the contents as he can afford to.
Meanwhile, he feels good that he’s done something productive regarding his personal emergency preparedness. Joe tosses the kit into his trunk and promptly forgets about it.
A few months go by, and Joe’s car breaks down one night on his way home from work. His cell isn’t able to get a signal, and it’s down to about 12% battery. Then he remembers his oh-so-cool survival kit in the trunk. He takes out the crank flashlight so he can check under the vehicle’s hood. The handle snaps at the third turn of the crank.
Oh well, hopefully, there’s enough moonlight for Joe to diagnose the problem. He’s able to see that, somehow, one of the cables slipped from the battery. No problem, there’s a multi-tool in the kit. Unfortunately, the pivot on the tool is locked up solid and won’t budge.
It’s late and getting chilly, so Joe pulls out the emergency blanket. Shaking it open, it immediately tears along each of the fold lines, leaving him with nothing more than strips of material.
This $50 “better than nothing” kit was nothing more than a talisman of safety.
What is a Talisman of Safety?
In describing this concept, Jayberry said that a lot of people tend to purchase survival and self-defense gear because it gives them a feeling of safety. But a lot of the gear they purchase hasn’t actually been pressure tested, and it might not work under real-world conditions. They carry the items because doing so makes them feel good, not necessarily because they’re confident in their ability to use them.
Do your best to make sure that what you carry for survival, defense, and similar purposes will actually do what you need them to do. Not only that, but develop skills and experience in using the gear. Remember that you can’t just buy your way to proficiency. In a very real sense, the whole point of carrying the gear is so that you can depend on it to save your life, right?
To be clear, I’m not suggesting everyone needs to spend top dollar on every gear purchase. Far from it, actually. There are plenty of solid options in the budget buy arena. The point here is that you should be very familiar with each item you carry. Know what it will and won’t do for you. Be confident that it will hold up to real use. Avoid gimmicky garbage and stick to what truly works.
This isn’t my joke, but to be fair, it’s easy to make. At the VP Debates, Tim Walz said he’s a knucklehead sometimes, and boy, was he a knucklehead at a staged pheasant hunt. This hunt was clearly propaganda, an attempt to appeal to gun owners by showing that Walz is a gun guy. I don’t doubt that Walz occasionally shoots, but he proved he doesn’t shoot often.
Tim Walz didn’t just stage a pheasant hunt but completely blew his credentials as a gun guy. Walz went to the hunt armed with his Beretta A400, a beautiful gun, and a fantastic shotgun. The A400 he’s holding is a 2,000-dollar semi-auto Beretta. It seems to be the gun he’s photographed most often with.
Admittedly, I get why. It’s a great shotgun. He even mentions it has the kick-off system. This system helps reduce recoil and keeps the gun comfortable for high-volume shoots. Some folks have made fun of him for this, but if you shoot a lot of birds, trap, or skeet, it’s nice to have. What we should make fun of is the fact the man can’t load the gun to save his life.
Tim Walz and His Beretta
The hilarity ensued as we saw the Governor load his shotgun. Or attempt to load. I wish I could see exactly what he’s doing and why he can’t seem to ready his weapon. He struggles for 20 or so seconds, and I’m not sure if he ever got his gun loaded.
I can’t tell if he can’t get a round into the magazine tube. The A400 is a very well-made gun. If you ever want to see the differences between a 2,000-dollar shotgun and a 200-dollar shotgun, look at the loading port. (That’s not the only difference, but it’s a big one.) The A400 series of guns are sporting shotguns and feature a smooth, enlarged loading port. It’s not going to take a DNA sample from your thumb like other shotguns. Shells slide into these guns smoothly and easily.
Another issue might be trying to get a round from the tube to the chamber. Italian semi-auto shotguns of the Beretta and Benelli type have a button that releases the first round from the tube to the shell elevator. After the first round, the trigger will release a round from the tube to the loading gate. Maybe that’s why he works the charging handle so many times.
It’s not complicated to load and ready this gun. It does load like any other common, modern tube magazine shotgun and on top of that, it loads easier than any other shotgun. Watching Tim Walz struggle leaves me feeling confused. What is keeping that shell from loading? The A400 Sporting, which his gun seems to be with the blue receiver, is a 3-inch chambered gun.
Is he trying to load a 3.5-inch shell? Maybe the bolt is locked to the rear, and he hasn’t realized it? It sounds like the bolt closes a couple of times. Maybe he’s holding the bolt and trying to load a round into the magazine tube? I can’t really figure out how he messed that up so badly.
Credentialism In Full Display
To be completely fair, other footage showed him and his compatriots handling their weapons safely, watching their sectors of fire, and avoiding aiming toward the press to chase a bird. Still, it’s clear Governor Tim Walz doesn’t shoot often or enough to know how to use his individual shotgun.
Using Tim Walz to show that the Democratic party would gleefully take your guns is credentialism at its best. They rely on his service with the National Guard and his reputation as a hunter and sport shooter to say they have expertise in the world of firearms. As usual, credentialism doesn’t equal actual expertise.
That’s the problem with this strategy, the—I’m a gun owner, but—strategy. It attempts to trick people, and trickery has no place in politics. Be honest, be consistent, and don’t try to lie and trick people into voting for you. If you are going to lie and use a game of trickery, at least look competent.
That famed photo of President Obama shooting a shotgun at least looked good. If you’re going to hunt pheasants and record it, at least make sure you know how to use your gun.
On Vice Presidents and Shotguns
After watching Tim Walz struggle with his shotgun, it suddenly became clear why Dick Cheney endorsed him and Vice President Harris’ ticket. They share an incompetence with shotguns. In fact, do you remember double-barrel Biden’s advice just to blast two rounds into the air? What is it with Vice Presidents and shotguns?
Listen, fellas, if you are running for VP, hit me up. I’ll teach you how to use a shotgun so you won’t look so silly on national TV. It won’t be free, but it will be worth it.
Midwest Industries just released a new line of aluminum shotgun stocks. There are three new models for the Beretta 1301, Mossberg 590, and Remington 870. The stocks are reminiscent of Midwest’s lever action stocks, but built specifically for each shotgun model.
MI Aluminum Shotgun Stock Features
The new MI aluminum shotgun stocks feature a skeletonized design. The Grip and stock beam are made from Hard Coat Anodized 6061 Aluminum. They maintain the factory cheek weld and length of pull, which MI says will fit most users. Spacer plates are available if you need a longer length of pull. You can also adjust the sightline with a polymer, adjustable cheek piece. This allows you to customize the stock to fit whatever sights, optics, or red dot you want to use.
The rear of the stock features M-LOK attachment points that let you add shell storage. They can accept MI Universal Shell Holders or M-LOK panels for aesthetics. A Midwest Industries butt pad is provided that reduces felt recoil and gives you a secure fit in your shoulder.
The stocks are an ambidextrous design that will work for left and right-hand shooters. There are several anti-rotation QD swivel sockets available that let you set up your sling the way you want it. There’s also one standard sling swivel stud as well.
The grip panels are designed in-house by MI. They provide texture for cold or wet conditions and have a distinct divot pattern. They look like the grips on the large pistol grip lever action stocks. If so, then other grip options are already available from MI. The entire unit weighs in at 1lb 11oz.
The new aluminum shotgun stocks have an MSRP of $284.95 for the Mossberg 590 and Remington 870 models. The Beretta 1301 version is a little more at $309.95. They’re compatible with other MI products, like their various end plates and the Beretta 1301 handguard. Made in the USA Lifetime warranty
Recently, Spartan Blades announced the release of a new collaboration project called the Spartan-Ronin Torii. For this knife, they partnered with Tu Lam of Ronin Tactics.
Who is Spartan Blades?
Curtis Iovito and Mark Carey, two retired Green Berets, founded Spartan Blades in 2008. They have well over 40 years of combined military experience. In other words, they are people who know from real-world, hard-won experience what works and what doesn’t in a knife. The goal from day one was to design and create high-quality knives that are suitable for both civilian and military use. Over the years, they’ve earned a reputation for hard-use knives that look as well as they perform.
One of the hallmarks of Spartan Blades is their frequent collaboration projects. They’ve worked with a number of well-known designers, including William Harsey, Jr., and Les George. Tu Lam is a decorated former Green Beret who has combat experience from all over the world. He is a true warrior in every sense of the term. He took all of that experience and poured it into the design of this knife. It’s a tactical blade, pure and simple.
The Spartan-Ronin Torii
The name of the Spartan-Ronin Torii pays homage to Torii Station in Okinawa, Japan. Curtis Iovito, Mark Carey, and Tu Lam all served there together. Known as C-1-1 or the CIF, which is the CINC’s Extremist Force, the unit has a strong reputation for its skills in CQB and sniper tactics, as well as overall ingenuity. The goal was for the Torii knife to embody the same excellence and precision as their unit.
Spartan-Ronin Torii Specs
The Spartan-Ronin Torii is a full 11.5 inches from end to end, with a blade stretching 6.5 inches. It’s 0.1875 inches thick at the spine. The D2 steel has been hardened to 58-60 HRC. This is a blade that will retain a great edge for a long time. It is treated with a black powder coat to enhance corrosion resistance. The blade has a trailing point profile, with a subtle but distinct curve from end to end.
Weighing 8.4 ounces, the Spartan-Ronin Torii isn’t a lightweight by any stretch. But at the same time, this isn’t a blade you’ll use to peel apples or dice onions, though it’s certainly capable of those chores in a pinch.
The Spartan-Ronin Torii comes with a secure sheath. It’s equipped with two MOLLE/belt attachments, giving the user options as to how they want to carry it. Combined with the knife’s inherent ergonomic design, rapid deployment is all but guaranteed.
The Spartan-Ronin Torii’s handle material is contoured and formed G10. It’s available in either straight black or a red/black combo. The shape of the handle allows for instant indexing and the texturing keeps the knife secure in your grip in any conditions, even when wet.
If you’re looking for an heirloom quality knife, one that is ready to tackle virtually anything you want to take on, then the Spartan-Ronin Torii might be just the ticket. You can find it here at the Spartan Blades website or here at DLT Trading.
CLEVELAND, Ohio – Oct. 1, 2024 – Team Wendy®, a leader in cutting-edge head protection solutions for military, law enforcement, and rescue personnel worldwide, announces that its highly acclaimed EPIC™ helmet line—popular among patrol officers, mobile field forces, and security contractors—is now available for purchase through the company’s e-commerce platform. This development allows customers to order directly online and have their helmets shipped to their doorstep. This streamlines the acquisition of essential head protection equipment.
“Our mission has always been to safeguard those who serve and protect,” said Doug Caffoe, Vice President, Commercial Growth at Team Wendy. “By launching e-commerce for our EPIC line, we’re making it easier than ever for customers to access the dependable protection they need. This new platform simplifies the ordering process and reaffirms our commitment to delivering the exceptional quality and innovation that have become synonymous with our name.”
Get Mission-Ready with Ease
Team Wendy’s e-commerce platform offers a seamless user experience. It enables customers to browse helmet options, customize features, and easily complete their purchase. Whether for tactical operations, rescue missions, or routine patrols, EPIC helmets are designed to meet the rigorous demands of those on the front lines. Likewise, they are renowned for delivering superior comfort, protection, and performance.
Finalize your selection, then proceed to secure checkout.
EPIC Innovation
EPIC helmets are equipped with advanced materials and innovative features meticulously engineered to maximize protection and comfort. These helmets integrate Team Wendy’s proprietary impact-absorbing technology. This significantly reduces blunt-force trauma during high-intensity situations.
The EPIC line is also known for its superior fit and customization. As a result, wearers can adjust components for maximum comfort during extended periods of use. Highlights include:
Enhanced Impact Protection: Featuring state-of-the-art, energy-dispersing liners, and an ergonomic shell design, EPIC helmets provide superior protection against blunt-force impacts.
Customizable Fit: Adjustable padding systems help ensure a snug, secure fit tailored to the unique head shape of each user, reducing discomfort during prolonged wear.
Lightweight Durability: Constructed with high-performance materials, the helmets are designed to withstand rigorous use without compromising wearer agility.
Versatility: EPIC helmets are compatible with a wide range of helmet accessories, making them highly adaptable for mission-specific needs.
“As we expand into this space, we’re not just offering a product—we’re delivering peace of mind,” Caffoe said. “Our customers trust Team Wendy for uncompromising safety and comfort. This new e-commerce option is another step in our ongoing commitment to make their lives easier while maintaining the highest standards of protection and performance.”
Visit TeamWendy.com to explore the full line of EPIC helmets and accessories.
About Team Wendy®
Team Wendy, part of the Avon Technologies PLC group of brands, is dedicated to providing exceptional head protection systems designed from the inside out for those who risk their lives every day. Founded in 1997, our Cleveland-based company places a strong focus on the prevention of traumatic brain injury (TBI) in honor of the company’s namesake, Wendy Moore, who died tragically from a TBI following a ski accident.
As a leading supplier of helmet systems for military, law enforcement, search and rescue, and adventure sports, Team Wendy is steadfast in our dedication to the pursuit of improving head protection research, design, and development, bringing more choice, better technology, and reliable customer service to the industry.
In the prepper world, a cache is an assemblage of gear and supplies that’s hidden somewhere until needed. The traditional prepper cache is often a short length of large-diameter PVC that’s sealed and then buried. The home cache is a little different, requiring very little in the way of money or time.
What’s a Home Cache?
The home cache concept is simple, as is the reasoning behind it. Let’s say there’s a fire in your home, one that forces everyone to evacuate. Thankfully, everyone makes it out okay, even the dog and cat. But it’s the middle of January, and half the family is in bare feet, nobody has a jacket, and everyone is shivering. You can’t even get into your vehicle because the keys are still in the house.
This is where the home cache comes into play. It’s a tote or other container that you’ve filled with spare outerwear, footwear, maybe a change of clothes for each family member, and similar necessities. This cache is then kept in a shed, detached garage, or other outbuilding. The idea here is that you’ll have access to at least a very bare minimum of clothing and such if your home is damaged or destroyed.
What Kind of Container?
Heavy-duty plastic totes tend to work well for this application. You want something that critters won’t be able to easily get into and make nests or wreak other havoc. Depending on the size of your family and what you keep in the cache, you may end up with a couple of totes.
What to Keep Inside?
At a minimum, I’d recommend a jacket and shoes or boots for each family member. A complete change of clothes would be ideal, including socks and underwear. The clothing could be put into ziplock bags or even vacuum-sealed to save space as well as protect them from moisture. There is no need to go out and buy extra clothes and footwear for the home cache. Just use items that still fit, but that family members don’t wear anymore.
You might also keep a list of important phone numbers in your home cache. Let’s face it, few of us memorize these numbers anymore. Instead, we rely on the contact list in our cell phones, which might not be available to us. These numbers include your insurance agent or the agency’s claim department, as well as local friends and/or family members. Put the list in a ziplock bag or something similar to keep it protected.
Everyone’s situation is different, but if you feel your home cache could be made fairly secure, I’d also toss in a spare key for your vehicle. This would act as a backup in case you had to leave the house too fast to grab your primary set. Even more security-contingent would some cash—enough to get you and your family a hotel room for the night.
Where to Store the Home Cache?
As mentioned earlier, if you have a shed or other outbuilding, that might be your best choice. Another option might be a roofed structure for firewood storage, such as a lean-to sort of arrangement if you have one. Stash the home cache behind the woodpile, and you’re good to go.
You want it in a location that isn’t likely to be immediately affected by a house fire or similar disaster. At the same time, while the tote can probably handle some amount of bad weather, you don’t necessarily want to trust it being exposed to the elements all the time.
As with every other bit of preparedness advice you’ll read here or elsewhere, few things are universally applicable. Take what you can use or adapt to your situation and leave the rest for someone else to try.
Savage has been killing it this year with new releases. Some have been updates of proven designs, and some are brand new. The REVEL CLASSIC and REVEL DLX rimfire lever actions are all new. They offer some great features at an attractive price.
The REVEL CLASSIC and REVEL DLX
Savage Arms didn’t just announce one new lever action. They made it a double. The REVEL CLASSIC and REVEL DLX are the two latest editions to the Savage rimfire line. The REVEL rifles share the same core action but have a number of unique features on each model.
According to Savage, the REVELs have a crisp trigger, a smooth lever action mechanism, and reliable cycling. The REVEL CLASSIC is available in .22 LR now, and the REVEL DLX will be available in .22 LR in a couple of months. Both models will be available in .22 HMR and .17 HMR by next spring.
They have an 18-inch barrel and feed from a tubular magazine. Capacity with .22 LR is 12 rounds. The magnum versions will have a 9-round capacity. They’re equipped with a crossbolt button safety located above and to the rear of the trigger. I have to admit, I grew up in an era where lever action rifles didn’t need safeties, so I’m not always a fan. The Savage safety looks functional and unobtrusive, though, so I don’t think I’ll mind this one.
Both models have a simple, quick take-down feature. Savage has a nice video on the procedure, and it looks fast and easy and doesn’t require any tools. This makes them a great choice for a pack gun or for storage in a Jeep or on an ATV. It also should make the rifles easy to take down for cleaning.
They’re very reasonably priced, too, at $439 for the REVEL and $539 for the REVEL DLX, so I was a little surprised by the addition of the take-down feature.
Both models have a buckhorn-style rear sight and a blade front mounted on their medium-profile carbon steel barrels. The DLX comes with the addition of a sight hood. The receivers are drilled and tapped to allow for optics mounting.
Where the two models differ is in their wood and sights. The REVEL CLASSIC comes with a nice, but plain, Turkish walnut stock with a classic straight grip. Meanwhile, the REVEL DLX wears an upgraded contoured Turkish walnut stock with intricate stippling on the semi-pistol grip for superior retention.
The forearm and buttstock have decorative inletted and vented channels that also probably reduce the weight some. Both models have a rubber butt pad that should enhance comfort and keep the rifle stable on the shoulder. The REVEL has an oversized loop lever, whereas the DLX has a more standard-sized lever.
My first hunting rifle was a lever action, and I later used one pretty extensively when I was doing Cowboy Action Shooting. I never owned a rimfire lever action, though, and I always wanted one. With the clean lines and impressive features of the REVELs I think now might be the time. Especially with the attractive MSRPs for the two new models.
But I think I’m going to hold out for a .22 Magnum when they drop in the spring. That gives me time to decide if I want a REVEL CLASSIC or a REVEL DLX!
Back before the channel, when I had the blog, I was quick to dismiss shoulder holsters.
I found them bulky and requiring special alterations to jackets to make them conceal effectively without an oversized cover garment.
Since then, I started thinking, “How did these things gain so much popularity?”
I’m sure that James Bond, Lethal Weapon, Die Hard, etc., have been contributing factors. However, they wouldn’t have seen as much real-world use as they did if they didn’t work.
So, thanks to some friends and my Patrons, I’m going to spend some time working with these rigs so I can quantify what they can and can’t do.
What questions do you have about shoulder holsters?
The Hardcore Hammers Camp Companion Axe Corporal's Corner Edition features a robust 26-ounce 4140 steel head and a durable 16-inch Grade A hickory handle.
Hardcore Hammers, an American company, was founded in 2010 with a vision to keep the tradition of American-made tools alive. Starting with the original Hardcore hammer, the company expanded its product line to include hatchets and axes, focusing on innovation and quality while maintaining 100% production in the USA. Meet the Camp Companion Axe!
Hardcore Tools
Notable products from Hardcore Hammers include the Survivalist Hatchet, known for its rugged design and versatility, and the Hardcore Hammer 2.0 Recessed Wafflehead, a favorite among professionals for its durability and precision. Other top products that have been well-received are the Classic Utility Hatchet 2.0 and the Blunt Force Smooth Face Hammer, which is described as the ‘do everything hammer.’ These products exemplify the company’s commitment to providing durable, high-quality tools for a variety of uses, from camping to carpentry.
Camp Companion Axe
The HH Camp Companion Axe Corporal’s Corner Edition—it’s not just an axe. It’s a game-changer! Born from an epic eight-month collab with the survival guru and YouTube sensation Shawn Kelly of Corporal’s Corner, this axe is all about redefining the game. It’s got muscle, a hefty 26-ounce 4140 ordnance steel head.
Also known as ordnance steel, 4140 is a low-alloy, medium-carbon steel well-known for its strength and versatility. This type of steel is commonly used for gun barrels and in the aerospace, oil and gas, and automotive industries for parts like gears, shafts, and axles due to its excellent properties, such as high fatigue strength and torsional strength. Also, 4140 steel can undergo various heat treatments to enhance its mechanical properties for specific applications.
The axe split kindling for a small wood stove during winter.
Style points go to the 16-inch Grade A hickory handle with laser-burned Corporal’s Corner logo that feels right in your hand. The brown top-grain leather sheath is the cherry on top for both looks and safety. Made with pride in the USA. This axe doesn’t just endure—it leads.
Corporal’s Corner
Shawn Kelly is the creator and host of Corporal’s Corner, a YouTube channel dedicated to bushcraft and survival skills. With a background as a Marine, Shawn shares informative and practical videos on military and camp survival skills, including shelter, fire, water, food, and tools. His family-friendly content ranges from knot-tying tutorials to survival kit recommendations for outdoor enthusiasts.
Test
The arm hair-shaving test was the first, and it passed—big time! The fit and finish with every HH axe/tomahawk I have handled has been top drawer all the way. The sheath had beautiful stitching and looked very handsome!
The author created feather sticks by pressing the heel into a log and then pulling the sticks back against the edge.
I chopped, split, hammered, and carved with the HH Camp Companion Axe. It had the feel of a larger axe in a more compact package. It’s very much a “pack axe” and punches out of its weight class. Corrosion wasn’t an issue even after donning the sheath damp from chopping in snow. The head never loosened, and the tool felt comfortable as a whole!
Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a seasoned pro, the Camp Companion Axe – Corporal’s Corner Edition is the trusty sidekick you want for every outdoor adventure.
The Camp Companion’s ample striking surface confidently hammered stakes into the hard rocky ground.
While I can’t say she coined the phrase, it was through my friend Daisy Luther that I first heard about “doom fatigue.” It refers to feeling overwhelmed by the rampant negativity you see and hear in the news, online, and seemingly everywhere else. People who are new to prepping can often be particularly susceptible to doom fatigue. As they start paying closer attention to what’s happening in the world, they can feel like it’s all hopeless. Even those of us who have been around the proverbial block a time or two can fall victim to doom fatigue.
A sense of hopelessness and feeling like you should just let whatever happens happen runs counter to the entire premise of preparedness. So, what can you do about it?
Self-Care
If you feel yourself starting to spiral, sit down and take a couple of deep breaths. Then, devote some time and energy to doing things that you find fun and that also perhaps enrich your mind and body. Getting some fresh air often helps. Maybe take a hike for the afternoon or spend some time at a local beach.
Another approach is to throw yourself into learning a new skill or hobby. If it has some crossover benefit to prepping, so much the better. Geocaching is a fun one that not only gets you outside but can help you learn some basics about navigation.
Self-care is something you should pursue regularly, even if you’re not feeling particularly stressed about doom fatigue.
Be Realistic
One of the best ways to reduce doom fatigue is to concentrate on what you can control. There isn’t much you can do about the policies of world governments, but you can certainly work on getting a good handle on your food storage. What works well for many is to create a short To-do list for the day, focused on things you can realistically actually complete.
Maybe organize one cupboard in the kitchen or two shelves in the pantry. The idea is to give yourself a couple of gimmes for the day. Be productive and move forward without overwhelming yourself.
Reduce Media Consumption
It can be incredibly easy to get caught up in our current 24/7 news cycle and feel like you need to pay attention to all of it. That’s a great way to end up with doom fatigue.
Set a timer and allow yourself no more than 20-30 minutes in the morning and another 20-30 minutes in the evening to check the news. Look for anything new that might be concerning, then move on. Be selective about the sources you consult, too. Concentrate on a couple that have proven to be reliable in the past. No matter what, avoid the comments section on any news story you read or watch. Seriously, nothing good ever happens there.
Take a Day Off
It’s perfectly okay to take an entire day and just crash out on the couch, bingeing your favorite show and snacking on comfort food. Every single one of us deserves some downtime once in a while. Remember that prepping is a marathon, not a sprint. You need to pace yourself, or you’re just going to burn out. Doom fatigue is a symptom of that.
That said, the next morning, you do need to get your butt up and moving again. Take a break, absolutely, but don’t fall into the “I’ll do it tomorrow” procrastination trap. Remember that nobody owes you another chance to do tomorrow what you could have done today.
EAGLEVILLE, PA, October 1, 2024 – Streamlight Inc., a leading provider of high-performance lighting and weapon light/laser sighting devices, introduced the TLR-1 HL-X USB/TLR-1 HL-X. It is a versatile weapon light for full-size handguns and long guns with rails. It also features multi-fuel capability while delivering up to 1,500 lumens for extreme brightness in a variety of tactical uses.
The high-lumen light gives users the choice of using either cost-saving SL-B9® USB-C rechargeable battery packs or 3-volt CR123A lithium batteries, depending on availability or user preference. Additionally, it also offers new rear paddle switches and a hinged face cap to allow for convenient, front-loading battery replacement.
The Streamlight Launches TLR-1 HL®-X USB/TLR-1 HL®-X High Lumen Light
“This newest addition to the TLR® family gives tactical, outdoor, and other users all the brightness, features, and functionality they need, whether using it to clear a dark room, search alleys, or light a dark path under low-light conditions,” said Streamlight President and Chief Executive Officer Ray Sharrah.
“Like the best-selling TLR-1 HL®, it provides full situational awareness by delivering maximum illumination in a wide beam pattern, but now also offers multi-fuel technology, new customizable rear switches, and front-loading batteries.”
The TLR-1 HL-X USB/TLR-1 HL-X features a white power LED and a special optic that produces a concentrated beam with optimum peripheral illumination. The new light delivers 1,500 lumens and 20,000 candela over a 283-meter beam distance when using two Streamlight SL-B9® Li-Ion 850mAh USB-C rechargeable battery packs and 1,000 lumens and 15,000 candela over 245 meters with two 3-volt CR123A lithium batteries inserted.
The rechargeable battery packs charge within 2.5 hours via an included “Y” USB-C cord or an optional bank charger. Run times range from 60 minutes using the SL-B9 battery packs to 90 minutes using disposable batteries.
TLR-1 HL-X USB/TLR-1 HL-X Operation
The new light features rear switches to the left and right of the trigger guard that provide ambidextrous operation. Correspondingly, it comes with both “High” and “Extended High” actuation switches to suit user preference. It provides momentary and constant-on operation and includes a user-activated strobe. It also features a hinged face cap with robust release controls that allow for front-loaded battery changes without removing the light from the firearm.
The TLR-1 HL-X quickly mounts to weapons safely and securely, attaching without the need to put your hands in front of the muzzle. The light also includes keys for a variety of full-size and compact-railed handguns.
Fabricated from 6000 series machined aluminum with a black anodized finish, the TLR-1 HL-X has a switch housing made from impact- and chemical-resistant engineering polymer. The new light weighs 5.19 ounces using two SL-B9 batteries and 4.94 ounces with two CR123A batteries. It measures 3.45 inches long.
With extensively live-fire-tested, impact-resistant construction, the new model features an IPX7-rated design, making it waterproof to 1 meter for 30 minutes.
The new light is packaged with “High” switches mounted on the light plus included “Extended High” switches and is available in Black. The TLR-1 HL-X USB ships with two SL-B9 battery packs and a “Y” USB-C cable and has an MSRP of $359.00. Likewise, it ships with two CR123A lithium batteries and has an MSRP of $335.00. Both lights come with Streamlight’s Limited Lifetime Warranty.
Smith & Wesson Carry M&P 2.0 Metal Carry Comp: Practical Experiences And Observations
The Smith & Wesson M&P 2.0 Metal Carry Comp Full-Size has been quite reliable and has cycled every type of round I’ve put through it, both factory and handloads. Furthermore, I had no problem shooting specialty action-pistol competition ammo such as HOP Munitions’ 147-grain Poly load that I’ve been shooting throughout the summer. This HOP round is ideal for sport-use, and my Garmin chronograph data also suggests that it’s loaded consistently, too.
Even though pistols may require lighter springs to shoot this round, the Smith & Wesson M&P 2.0 Metal Carry Comp cycled it perfectly with its factory-standard light-blue-tinged RSA (recoil spring assembly). I’ve previously written that it feels as if this load and this pistol were made for each other.
If I weren’t already working on ranking up in USPSA Carry Optics with my brace of Walther PDPs, shooting an M&P 2.0 like this one with the HOP load (and the correct type of non-ported barrel) would be quite tempting. All other rounds I fired through the pistol, including offerings with varying bullet weights ranging from 115 to 147 grains from CCI, Fiocchi, Federal, Hornady, and Staccato, also cycled without issue.
The M&P 2.0 Metal Carry Comp Full-Size nor any of the other M&P 2.0s I’ve fielded have never been picky about cycling aluminum-cased cartridges either.
Running the Steiner MPS
Other than the first fifteen rounds I fired quite literally the day before my Steiner MPS enclosed-emitter red-dot sight arrived, all of my shooting with this handgun has involved mounted optics. I used an Apex Tactical ACRO/MPS optics plate to mount said Steiner MPS to the Carry Comp. To secure the optic to its mounting plate, I used the Steiner MPS Super Clamp—also from Apex Tactical.
The Apex Tactical S&W CORE optics plate for the Aimpoint ACRO / Steiner MPS optics footprint along with the Apex Tactical Super Clamp for the MPS.A close-up of the Apex Tactical Super Clamp for the Steiner MPS Red-Dot Sight
The M&P 2.0 Metal Carry Comp Goes To School
Class set-up during Greybeard Actual’s Pistol Skill Development at RDI Range in San Antonio, TX.
The lion’s share of my shooting with Smith & Wesson M&P 2.0 Metal Carry Comp happened during the first day of the Greybeard Actual Pistol Skill Development two-day course. That day, I fired at least 653 rounds of Blazer Aluminum. When factoring in the remainder of the round count the pistol saw prior to class, the total lies somewhere between 800 and 1000 rounds.
In Part 1, I mentioned that I’ve technically reviewed five different M&P 2.0 pistol models, but I was glad for the opportunity to actually run the pistol hard in Greybeard’s class. Until now, most of my shooting with the M&P family had been academic. So, this intensive class allowed me to wring out the Smith & Wesson M&P 2.0 Metal Carry-Comp during a hot and sweaty summer day.
Using an appendix inside-the-waistband KSG Lexington holster, I shot the entire class from concealment and carried the gun exactly as I would normally.
The M&P 2.0 Metal in Hand
A close-up of the M&P 2.0 Metal Carry Comp’s slide’s breech face next to the slide/ breech face of my standard M&P 2.0 (the cone-shaped area near the top edge).
Besides the contour, one of my favorite things about the grips on the M&P 2.0 Metal frames are their fronstrap inserts. They tend to be aggressive and help anchor the gun to the shooting hand.
Several hours into the class and after numerous repetitions in drawing from this concealment holster, that frontstrap insert really proved its worth. However, by the middle of the first day, I was covered in sweat, and the non-textured areas surrounding the grip had a tendency to feel slippery.
Similarly, in spite of how cool the serrations on the Carry Comp’s slide look, I found them harder to grab as well. While one could always use the mounted red-dot sight as a slide-racker, I tend to avoid that to not invite needless fingerprints and detritus to the objective lens.
With that in mind, the engineering team at Smith & Wesson reprofiled the breech-face of this pistol’s slide. This was done to redirect escaping carbon, gasses, and lubricant to prevent them from blurring a red dot’s objective lens.
After 653 rounds by the end of the first day in class, I definitely noticed a difference. I think any dedicated slide-mounted red-dot pistol shooter would welcome this subtle tweak.
Slide Stop Considerations
While not the fault of the M&P 2.0 family, I’ve never been thrilled about the location of their slide-stops due to the shape of my own thumbs. I’ve also noticed that when depressing them, these slide stops tend to feel stiffer than those found on other models.
During the first few hundred rounds, I had to use both my thumb and index/trigger finger to put enough pressure on the slide-stop to actuate it. However, it had worn-in more by the end of the day. I think the “extended” Smith & Wesson Performance Center slide-stops that the full-size M&P 2.0 Carry Comp has should be standard across the M&P 2.0 series. They do make a difference, especially once these parts break-in.
Even with its quirks, not once did I ever feel like I was truly fighting the Smith & Wesson M&P l while actually shooting. The gun was reliable, it pointed well, its slide tracked well, and it allowed me to focus on shooting. What more can a shooter ask for than a gun that doesn’t impede their shooting?
DES ARC, Ark. (September 17, 2024) – D&M Holding Company, Inc. (D&M), an ammunition and energetics engineering company, is investing $70 million to expand its current White River Energetics (WRE) ammunition primer and energetics facility in Des Arc, Arkansas, and build a single-base, smokeless propellant factory.
White River Energetics Expands
“Currently, there is a worldwide shortage of smokeless propellant that is affecting munitions availability globally,” said Dan Powers, President and CEO of D&M Holding Company, Inc. “This will be the first single-base propellant factory to be built in the United States in over 50 years.”
White River Energetics currently has 125 employees at the Des Arc facility, with 73 new employees added in the past year. The expansion will create 100 new jobs and increase the Des Arc campus from 14,000 square feet to over 100,000 square feet of manufacturing space. Construction on the expansion is underway and expected to be completed in Q1 2026.
“We are proud of all the people and employees who have worked tirelessly to support WRE and make this happen,” said BJ Rogers, Vice President of Operations, D&M Holding Company, Inc. “Having grown up in Des Arc, I’m personally proud to see the successes that have been made with primers and look forward to continued success in the future production of propellant.”
This expansion will enable WRE to scale its energetics and primer manufacturing to meet customer demand as well as develop new products. “This expanded campus also provides a facility for R&D and for training for our customers for whom we are building factories around the world,” said James Jones, Vice President of Business Development, D&M Holding Company.
D&M and WRE support domestic and international clients in the defense and sporting markets. They do so through the development of turnkey factories, and the manufacturing and distribution of energetics for various types of ammunition. This includes primers for small and large caliber pistols and rifles. For more information visit D&M Holding Company and White River Energetics.
About D&M Holding Company and White River Energetics
D&M Holding Company, Inc. (D&M) is an ammunition and energetics engineering company based in Tampa, Florida and Cabot, Arkansas. The company specializes in design and manufacture of ammunition and energetics equipment and turnkey factories for customers worldwide. White River Energetics, LLC (WRE) is a wholly owned subsidiary of D&M, located in Des Arc, Ark. with the objective of manufacturing energetics for the ammunition industry.
Lefties rejoice. KAK Industry just announced the new left-handed version of their K-SPEC Enhanced BCG for the AR-15. As a righty, I’m not always cognizant of the off-handed struggles with semi-autos. After shooting a bunch with a buddy this summer and seeing him get blasted in the face with brass, though, I’m learning. KAK’s K-SPEC Enhanced BCG’s have been getting good buzz with shooters, and now they’re available in a left handed option.
The K-SPEC Enhanced BCGs
KAK Industry released its enhanced Bolt Carrier Group (BCG) earlier this year. KAK has taken that design and reversed it for the left-handed shooter. It featured a downward gas vent to minimize blowback to the shooter’s face. The company relocated the two standard gas relief ports on a regular AR BCG from the ejection port side of the carrier to the bottom, in the magazine feed lip channels.
I saw some concern about crud being blown into the mag well and magazine with this method. KAK shows testing on its website, ensuring that wasn’t a problem, though. I’ve seen feedback on some of the various AR forums from folks using them, indicating this was not an issue.
In addition to the downward gas vents, the K-SPEC Enhanced BCG’s also have slotted angled carrier rails to help clear debris. They’re made to clear out sand, mud, dirt, and grime, including suppressor fouling. The KAK Industry K-SPEC bolts get the added bonus of dual ejectors for consistent ejection.
Now Available for the Lefties in Your Life
KAK took all of the features of the K-SPEC Enhanced BCGs and flipped them for lefties. The Left Hand BCGs are available in a Chrome Carrier with Phosphate Bolt version and a Chrome Lined Phosphate version. Both are currently offered with a 5.56/.300 BO bolt. KAK does offer other left-hand bolt options as well, though, and the left-hand K-SPEC bolt carriers are available separately.
The K-SPEC Enhanced BCGs work particularly well when shooting with a suppressor to mitigate the increased blowback. The downward venting also results in a quieter report as well. Response to these has been very positive. If you’re doing a new build, especially one that you intend to run suppressed, it’s well worth taking a look at the K-SPEC Enhanced BCGs in general.
If you’re a lefty, then the new left-handed BCG should absolutely be on your shortlist. Just remember to get a left-handed upper to go with it!
Left-Handed K-SPEC BCG Specification
Designed to function reliably in the toughest conditions
Optimized for both Suppressed and Un-suppressed use, All uses – All Conditions
Dual Ejectors for enhanced reliability
Angled Carrier Rail Cuts for flawless function in adverse conditions and prolonged suppressed use
Downward Gas Ports to reduce gas blowback to shooter
Full Auto Profile
Permatex added between Gas Key and Carrier Mating Surface
Carrier- 8620 steel, outside rails, bolt runs, and gas bores ground to .0002 tolerances, Chrome finish
Gas key – 4130 steel, heat treated, Phosphate with Chrome lining finish, secured with T25 torx fasteners, torqued to spec, staked with hydraulic staking machine11.5 oz
