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Winchester Announces The Supreme Optics Line

By
Tim Stetzer
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Lifestyle Images

Winchester just announced the Supreme Optics line of sport optics. It includes binoculars, spotting scopes, range finders, and rifle scopes. They’re touting them as a “high quality, value-focused line” geared towards hunters, sport shooters, and outdoors enthusiasts.

The Winchester Supreme Optics line currently includes two rangefinders, two spotting scopes, four pairs of binoculars, and six different rifle scopes. Prices look pretty reasonable, with scopes ranging from $144.99 to $344.99. The binoculars start at $206.99 for an 8x42mm pair, and go up to $264.99 for the 12×50’s. There are two rangefinders in the Supreme Optic line—a 6×20 model for $241.99 and a 7×24 model for $337.99. Lastly are the spotting scopes, a 20-60×65 for $339.99 and a 20-60×80 for $386.99.

Winchester promises that the Supreme Optic products will deliver precision, clarity, and durability. They’re built with solid optical and mechanical systems of proven design to provide a dependable optic for your shooting needs. Winchester Supreme Optics are backed by a Limited Lifetime warranty offered by the manufacturer.

Lifestyle Images

Spotting Scopes

  • Premium HD glass
  • Durable construction
  • Fog-proof & Waterproof
  • WINcoat™ coating – increased light transmission, reduced glare, and clearer, crisper images from edge to edge with great low-light performance
  • Limited Lifetime Warranty
Lifestyle Images

Riflescopes

  • Premium HD glass
  • Tough black anodized aluminum housing for years of rugged use
  • Fog-proof & Waterproof
  • WINcoat™ coating – increased light transmission, reduced glare, and clearer, crisper images from edge to edge with great low-light performance
  • Fingertip turret adjustment for windage and elevation with no tools needed
  • Zero reset turrets can be quickly adjusted back to zero
  • Limited Lifetime Warranty
Lifestyle Images

Binoculars

  • High-quality BAK4 prisms and WINcoat™ coating with HD glass for brighter and clearer images from edge to edge, even in low-light conditions
  • High-performance chassis that balances weight and rigid construction for enhanced durability
  • Twist-up eyecups for use with or without eyeglasses
  • Nitrogen-filled and sealed optical system for fog and waterproof performance
  • Knurled focus adjustment knobs for a secure grip
  • Limited Lifetime Warranty

Range Finders

  • Fast, accurate, reliable measurements
  • Premium HD glass for brighter and clearer images from edge to edge
  • 100% Waterproof Rubber Armor Housing 40-hour run time
  • Limited Lifetime Warranty

To learn more about the complete product offerings from World of Winchester, please visit World of Winchester.

YOU DO YOU: HOW APPLYING YOUR THINKING TO OTHERS CAN BE PROBLEMATIC

By
The Suited Shootist
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Dr. William Aprill was excellent at helping us regular folks understand the motivations and thought processes of the violent criminal actor.

His work helped us to understand that something worthless or insignificant to us could be incredibly valuable or important to someone else with different priorities from some other walk of life.

Predation is just a social behavior (Dr. Aprill liked to point out that “violence, oddly enough, is a social act” as it requires other people). As such, I took this idea of victim selection and expanded on it a little to apply to other less severe and hopefully far more common aspects of our day-to-day lives.

There are lots of folks who dismiss dressing well as “unimportant” or who consider using someone’s appearance as part of how you view them as “snobby.” Ironically, many of these same folks can rattle off pre-assault indicators and other physical cues they use to profile people.

The point is that just because it doesn’t matter to a certain person in a specific situation doesn’t mean that it’s not important or valuable.

Because They Are Not Like You.

The better you understand who “they” are and what “they” value, the more easily you can navigate a broader range of social environments.

Free Learning Resources – County Extension Offices

By
Jim Cobb
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County Extension Offices
Adult learning class

I’m always on the hunt for free learning resources. While I’ve known about the existence of County Extension Offices, I never really understood what they were all about. They are jam-packed with tons of information, programs, and more, all of which are relevant to the preparedness-oriented person. As we go through these areas of knowledge, remember that it’s all available to you at no cost.

What’s a County Extension Office?

Each county in the United States has an Extension Office. County Extension agents work with universities to assist residents with questions regarding a wide range of topics, such as agriculture, family living, health, and so much more.

Master Gardeners

County Extension Offices are where you’ll find the Master Gardener program. These are volunteers who have gone through extensive education and training. They then turn around and share that knowledge through programs and events in their county. They can be a tremendous resource for learning how to get your garden producing well season after season.

Financial Education

Personally, I rank financial preparedness as one of the top areas people need to master. Many people are financially illiterate to one degree or another. What might be surprising to many is that County Extension Offices offer help in educating citizens about financial literacy. They offer programs on building and maintaining credit, establishing a workable budget, and related topics.

Healthy Living

County Extension Offices offer a range of classes and information related to health and wellness. Not only will they help you learn food preservation techniques like canning, they can help you test your pressure canner’s gauge to ensure it’s calibrated properly.

They have solid information on how our nutrition needs change as we age and how to account for it. Their agents can also help you find food pantries and similar resources if you’re ever in need.

Mental health is just as vital as physical health. County Extension Offices have a class called Mental Health First Aid, where participants learn how to identify various mental health issues and determine what to do about them.  

4-H

Another key element is that County Extension Offices help manage the 4-H program. This is the largest youth development organization in the United States. The four Hs stand for Head, Heart, Hands, and Health. When they think of 4-H, many people think of showing animals at county fairs. While that’s certainly part of it, 4-H also offers a range of other opportunities, such as STEM, civic engagement, and fitness. 4-H teaches kids practical skills.

Other Programs

In addition to these standard areas of knowledge, each County Extension Office will usually develop its own programs and classes. Take a deep dive into your county’s Extension Office website to find out what they have available.

Additionally, they will work with you to set up a program. If you have a group that wants to learn, say, household budgeting, provide a location to the County Extension Office, and they will provide an instructor. Pro tip: Most public libraries have meeting rooms that are free to use.

As a bonus, many of the County Extension websites have a ton of informative articles on top of listings of the programs they offer. These articles are a great way to get some foundational knowledge on various topics. You can contact the County Extension Office directly for more information on a given topic.

This page has a list of all 50 states. Click on yours to get to the state’s list of Extension Offices. This site has a list of all of the universities that are working with Extension Offices throughout the country.

Organizing Your EDC and Travel Gear

By
Reuben Bolieu
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Expanded EDC Carry with Tuff Possum Shekleton EDC Satchel, Gossamer Gear Hip Pocket Pouch, and The Hidden Woodsmen Haversack.

When your everyday carry (EDC) items exceed your pocket capacity, using a pouch or haversack can ensure you have everything you need for the day. When organizing your EDC and travel gear or commuting in the city, you might need to bring a camera, additional lenses, rain gear, and other gadgets. Trying to fit all these items in your pockets can be challenging!

Shackleton EDC Satchel

Tuff Possum Gear, founded by Jayberry in 2017, offers new designs and materials for outdoor enthusiasts worldwide.

The Shackleton EDC Satchel is designed for those on the go. Made of durable 1000d and 500d Cordura nylon, it features a 12-inch width, 9-inch length, two interior pockets, and two slip pockets. The adjustable webbing shoulder strap provides comfort during wear.

The Shackleton EDC Satchel has a PALS pattern cut, a loop panel for modular organization, and two interior pockets on the front panel.

It has a Pouch Attachment Ladder System (PALS) inside panel for attaching equipment, two interior pockets, a padded back panel, and a 2-inch-wide adjustable shoulder strap. It also features weather flaps with ITW side-release buckles for added protection.

The Shackleton EDC Satchel allows me to quickly navigate tight places on a train or in a crowd. It’s convenient for quick access to items like gloves, cameras, and water bottles. The adjustable ITW Cobra buckle closure makes one-handed access and adjustments easy. The deep and secure slip pockets on each side are very convenient. The back padding and size of the satchel also make it suitable for use as an insulated seat. This makes the Shackleton EDC Satchel multifunctional like other Tuff Possum Gear products.

TRAVEL EDC

Travel is a huge part of my life, and I rely on the Lewis N Clark Neck Stash for organization. It’s made of durable ripstop nylon and has three compartments for essentials like money, cards, passports, and boarding passes. 

Lewis N Clark Neck Pouch is essential for travel as it serves as a wallet and EDC through the airport and a security stash when worn under a shirt abroad.

I also carry my Griffin Adventure Tool, debit card, local currency, OLIGHT i3T EOS, hand sanitizer, and Fisher pen inside. The Fisher Bullet Pen with the IZULA Gear logo is always with me on flights and throughout my trips. It’s compact, convenient, and a timeless classic, priced at $20.

Waxed Canvas EDC Tray

PNWBUSHCRAFT offers robust waxed canvas and leather gear tailored for the demanding conditions of the Pacific Northwest. Crafted in the USA, their range includes bags, ground cloths, and foraging pouches designed to enhance the outdoor experience.

The Two-Tone Waxed Canvas EDC Travel Tray 2.0 – A compact and organized way to carry your everyday items.

The Two-Tone Waxed Canvas EDC Travel Tray 2.0 is an upgraded version of the PNWBUSHCRAFT Travel Tray, now suitable for everyday use. This compact tray is designed to hold your EDC items and can be quickly snapped together to keep them organized. 

It features an additional eyelet on the top for easy hanging and measures 6.5 inches when open flat. The tray has three slots that are 2.5 inches deep, with varying widths of 1 inch, 1.5 inches, and 2.5 inches. This makes it perfect for carrying small items like a multi-tool, flashlight, lighter, pocket knife, and more.

When snapped in half, the tray becomes a 3.25-inch wide tiny tray with 1-inch high sides and a 4-inch bottom. Currently, it is available in two-tone colors. MSRP: $45.00

You can keep essential items easily accessible in the EDC Travel Tray 2.0, which fits in most pockets.

Consider these gear picks when organizing your EDC and Travel Gear, and you’ll be the wiser!

For more information, please contact:

TuffPossumGear.com
SpacePen.com
PNWBushcraft.com

X2 Dev Group Releases Trident Barrels

By
Tim Stetzer
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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

For more information, check out X2 Dev Group.

Talismans of Safety: Do They Only Promote a False Sense of Security?

By
Jim Cobb
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Talismans of Safety

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.

Watching Tim Walz Load a Shotgun Is a Lesson In Incompetence

By
Travis Pike
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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 Releases New Aluminum Shotgun Stocks

By
Tim Stetzer
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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

For more information, check out the Midwest Industries.

Spartan-Ronin Torii Released

By
Jim Cobb
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Spartan-Ronin Torii

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.

[All images courtesy Spartan Blades.]

Revolutionary Head Protection, a Click Away: Team Wendy’s EPIC™ Helmet Line Now Available for E-Commerce

By
Keith Finch
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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.

How to Order

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.

THE HOME CACHE

By
Jim Cobb
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The Home Cache

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 Arms Announces Two New Rimfire Lever Guns – The REVEL CLASSIC and REVEL DLX

By
Tim Stetzer
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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!

Product No. / Description / MSRP

46000 / REVEL CLASSIC 22 LR / $439 – Shipping NOW
46100 / REVEL CLASSIC 22 WMR / $439 – Shipping Spring 2025
46200 / REVEL CLASSIC 17 HMR / $439 – Shipping Spring 2025
46020 / REVEL DLX 22 LR / $539 – Shipping Winter 2024
46120 / REVEL DLX 22 WMR / $539 – Shipping Spring 2025
46220 / REVEL DLX 17 HMR / $539 – Shipping Spring 2025

More information about the Savage Arms REVEL CLASSIC and REVEL DLX lever guns is available at SavageArms.com.

ARE SHOULDER HOLSTERS STILL VALID?

By
The Suited Shootist
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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?

Hardcore Hammers Camp Companion Axe

By
Reuben Bolieu
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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.

Quick SPECS:

  • 26oz 4140 American steel head
  • 16″ Grade A Hickory handle
  • Hand-sharpened to perfection
  • Triple-wedged head attachment
  • 100% Made in the USA
  • Laser burned Corporal’s Corner logo
  • MSRP: $219.99

For More Information, Check out Hardcore Hammers.

Doom Fatigue: How to Prevent it From Setting In

By
Jim Cobb
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Doom fatigue

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.

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