TAMPA, FL, January 16, 2020 – Meopta USA Sport Optics is pleased to introduce its newest premium binocular – the MeoPro Air. Elevating the MeoPro line to the next level in performance, the Air will be available in 8×42 and 10×42 models. It features an ergonomic open-hinge design and lightweight magnesium-alloy chassis built to withstand the most rugged field conditions. ED glass with Meopta’s proprietary lens coating delivers edge-to-edge clarity and exceptionally bright, sharp images while virtually eliminating chromatic aberration. Colors are true and vivid, and contrast is enhanced, making it easier to see detail in low light.
The Air binoculars feature Meopta’s MeoShield anti-abrasion lens coatings and MeoDrop hydrophobic lens coatings which repel rain, dust, and grease from lens surfaces. The twist-up eyecups are easily removed for cleaning.
“We are excited to offer a high-performance, open-hinge binocular in our award-winning MeoPro line,” said Pavel Stastny, Senior Director of Sales and Marketing at Meopta. “The Air makes glassing in even the most difficult conditions easier, thanks to the premium optics, MeoBright and MeoDrop lens coatings, and the open-bridge design which makes them especially comfortable to hold for prolonged periods.”
The Air binoculars are nitrogen purged and fully sealed for fogproof and waterproof performance in the most demanding conditions.
Retail Pricing:
MeoPro Air 8×42: $979.99
MeoPro Air 10×42: $999.99
MeoPro Air Binocular Specifications:
Model:
8×42
10×42
Magnification:
8x
10x
Objective Lens (mm):
42mm
42mm
Field of View (ft/1000 yds):
419 ft.
335 ft.
Eye Relief (mm)
22
18
Close Focus (ft):
6 ft.
6 ft.
Exit Pupil Diameter (mm)
5.3
4.2
Twilight Factor:
18.3
20.5
Interpupillary Distance (mm):
56 – 74
56 – 74
Diopter System:
Under Center Focus Knob
Under Center Focus Knob
Dioptric Correction (D):
± 4.0
± 4.0
Height (in):
6 in.
6 in.
Width (in):
5.00 in.
5.00 in.
Depth (in):
2.5 in.
2.5 in.
Weight (oz):
29 oz
29 oz
Lens/Prism Coatings:
Fully multi-coated
Fully multi-coated
Hydrophobic Coating:
Yes
yes
Anti-scratch Coating:
Yes
yes
Waterproof:
Yes
yes
Nitrogen Purged:
Yes
yes
Fogproof:
Yes
yes
Shockproof:
Yes
yes
The MeoPro Air binoculars will be on display in the Meopta Booth (#10176) at the 2020 SHOT Show.
Meopta has been producing high-end European optics for over 85 years and is a leading manufacturer & partner to many of the world’s finest optical brands. Meopta conceives, develops and manufactures precision optical and electro/optical systems for semiconductor, medical, aerospace and military industries as well as for consumer markets.
Outmatched by no one. Walther continues their tradition of superiority with a handgun designed specifically for those who only buy the best and nothing less. This is the ultimate representation of high-class performance in a conceal carry package that just can’t be found anywhere else. The new Walther Q4 Steel Frame.
Key features include:
Weight Distribution When increasing performance on pistols, simply adding weight to the frame provides little difference. The Q4 Steel Frame is precision machined to properly distribute 40 ounces of weight to drastically reduce felt recoil, improving shooter performance. This revolutionary technique in distributing the overall weight of the pistol creates a superb balance in hand allowing the shooter to take advantage of the triggers short reset capability.
Ergonomics Grip geometry and texture must be perfect, then aiming becomes second nature. The ergonomics of the Q4 Steel Frame is a feat in firearms engineering that simply must be felt to be believed. The combination of a reversible over-sized magazine release button, recessed ambidextrous slide release, and flawless balance in hand result in the most natural point-of aim.
The Q4 Steel Frame features Performance Duty Texture, developed by Walther to provide a premium, yet functional grip. This Performance Duty Texture provides an aggressiveness to maintain proper grip performance. But, with its tetrahedron design, it is non-abrasive, providing no irritation to the skin or clothing of the user.
Walther has pushed the boundaries of testing in some of the harshest conditions, whether it’s torrential rainfall, extreme heat, and humidity, icy cold temperatures, or thick mud, the Performance Duty Texture of the Q4 Steel Frame delivers peak performance.
Quick Defense Trigger With the creation of the PPQ came the Quick Defense Trigger from Walther, a trigger second-to-none. Providing the shooter an alternative to the heavy, spongy striker-fired pistols on the market.
The Quick Defense Trigger is a safe two-stage trigger with a crisp-break and short-reset. The first stage allows for consistent prep with a distinct wall that can be easily found under stressful situations. The second stage is the crisp break of the wall, resulting in accurate shots on target.
The reset of the Quick Defense Trigger measures only 1/10”, allowing the shooter to skip the first stage completely and fire the follow up shot by only moving their finger 1/10 of an inch. Resulting in faster, more accurate and consistent shots on target.
The quick-defense trigger is known as the best striker-fired trigger by nearly every critic.
Duty Optimized Beavertail The Duty Optimized Beavertail provides the shooter increased grip height on the pistol, resulting in reduced felt recoil. Optimized for duty retention holsters, providing clearance for retention hoods most used in Law Enforcement.
This beavertail design also enhances comfortability during concealed carry. The smooth, rounded design allows reduced irritation when carrying appendix IWB. This design also reduces the amount of print while carrying concealed.
Iron Sight or Optics Adaptable. Efficient. The perfect integration of both professional and tactical dynamics. The Q4 Steel Frame is unparalleled proficiency in a platform designed to meet your individual needs, available in either platform preferred, iron sight or optic ready. The Q4 Steel Frame features steel 3-dot phosphoric night sights, which are non-snag and optimized for conceal carry. The Q4 Steel Frame OR features a black serrated front and black serrated rear adjustable duty sight, while also allowing for the installation of a red dot optic. The Q4 Steel Frame series is uniquely designed to give you the flexibility of iron sights and optics.
The Q4 Steel Frame from Walther is an accomplishment that encompasses everything shooters desire in a premier concealed carry firearm capable of outlasting even the toughest conditions. Despite common misconceptions, you can buy performance.
The Magpul BSL is an AR arm brace designed to improve the single-handed employment of large-format pistols. The BSL utilizes Magpul design and engineering to offer a stabilizing accessory with a robust feature set and trusted Magpul quality. The BSL is compatible with Mil-Spec carbine receiver extensions. An integrated QD cup and two M-LOK compatible slots provide ambidextrous sling mounting options and enable stabilizing sling tension to be applied, drastically increasing single-handed control of the firearm.
FEATURES
Designed and intended for use as a stabilizing accessory for one-handed firing
Ambidextrous rear QD cup allows sling tension to be applied while firing with one hand to improve stability
Compatible with Mil-Spec carbine receiver extensions
The Magpul BTR is an AR arm brace designed to improve the single-handed employment of large-format pistols. The BTR utilizes Magpul design and engineering to offer a stabilizing accessory with a robust feature set and trusted Magpul quality. The BTR is compatible with Mil-Spec carbine receiver extensions. An integrated QD cup and M-LOK compatible slot provide ambidextrous sling mounting options and enable stabilizing sling tension to be applied, drastically increasing single-handed control of the firearm.
FEATURES
Designed and intended for use as a stabilizing accessory for one-handed firing
Ambidextrous rear QD cup allows sling tension to be applied while firing with one hand to improve stability
Compatible with Mil-Spec carbine receiver extensions
The wizards of Magpul always have a line up for SHOT Show and this year looks no different. Three announcements have been dropped so far out of the eleven total they’re teasing.
Savage Owners can now get in on the Magpul rifle stock goodness right along with their Remington and Ruger compatriots
Our Hunter 110 Stock – Savage® 110 Short Action features enhanced ergonomics, versions for both right and left-hand actions, eight M-LOK slots for mounting options, and a fully adjustable length of pull and comb height. It was designed for 3rd generation Savage short action Series 10/110 centerfire rifles with center-feed magazine compatibility and action screw hole spacing of 4.40” (H-prefix and later) with production date of 2006 and later. Like our other Hunter stocks, it features a Type III hard anodized, machine-finished, cast aluminum bedding block that doesn’t require bedding and is a true “drop-in” stock solution.
FEATURES
One Bolt Action Magazine Well – Hunter 110 (required for stock and magazine compatibility) and one PMAG® 5 7.62 AC included for reliable detachable box magazine compatibility
Available for right and left-hand actions
Compatible with barrel profiles up to Heavy Palma and Savage Varmint barrel contours
And many others
PMAG® 10 5.56 AC™ – AICS Short Action
Magpul has cracked the code on a design for a 5.56 AICS bolt action magazine. The AICS short chassis systems are built around the 7.62x51mm cartridge and its derivatives, the shorter 5.56 and its brethren have proven finicky in the past to accepting a conversion into the spacious chamber dimensions of short action rifles. Meaning 5.56 short actions were internal mag only.
The PMAG® 10 5.56 AC™ is a polymer 5.56×45 NATO (.223 Remington) magazine designed for short action Accuracy International Chassis Systems (AICS)-pattern bottom metal, including the Bolt Action Magazine Well for the Magpul Hunter family of stocks. It features GEN M3™ technology, including a self-lubricating follower, a stainless-steel spring, and constant-curve internal geometry for smooth feeding of 10 rounds. Designed from the ground up to solve the challenges of feeding 5.56/.223, it incorporates offset feed lip geometry that maximizes bolt face engagement, guaranteeing reliable feeding and solving the bolt face issue common to other AICS-pattern magazines for 5.56 based cartridges.
FEATURES
Compatible with short action AICS-pattern bottom metal and cartridges built on a 0.378” case head such as 5.56×45 NATO (.223 Remington)
Accepts cartridge overall length (COAL) of up to 2.39”
Offset feed lip geometry designed to maximize bolt face engagement and optimize reliability
The most lightweight and tactile glove in the Magpul lineup, the Magpul Technical Glove 2.0 offers abrasion protection with maximum dexterity. Fitted with durable synthetic construction, suede-backed thumbs, and a compression-molded neoprene cuff to provide a second-skin fit. Includes a tough, suede palm. The narrow forefinger maintains your range of motion for better control of your firearm’s trigger and selector. The thumb, index, and middle fingers on both hands are also touchscreen compatible.
FEATURES
Protection for active hands with minimum impact on fine motor skills
Suede-backed thumb area to quickly remove fogging on hunting optics and glasses
Lightweight, durable glove that won’t compromise dexterity
Compression-molded neoprene cuff for secure fit
And many more
The Magpul Patrol Gloves 2.0 are the next evolution of our popular Patrol Glove, with enhanced articulation at the palm and flexible knuckle panels for added tactility. They feature a lightweight construction with a premium leather palm and thumb panel for improved fit. The corded stretch nylon construction on the back of glove, combined with a lightly padded contour panel at the knuckles, increased protection and flexibility across a range of activities. Whether in the field or at the range, Magpul Patrol Gloves 2.0 provide excellent comfort, dexterity and protection.
FEATURES
Wrap-up finger pattern and articulated palm pattern for added dexterity and protection
If the Bloomberg-financed gun confiscation crowd gets anything right, it is its consistently beguiling messaging. In the same way that The Force in Star Wars bends the will of the weak-minded, confiscationists use language that requires us first to disabuse the public of their empty rhetoric before we can actually discuss the facts about firearms. In Virginia, the General Assembly has become not just a gun-free zone, but also a “fact-free zone,” rife with ad hominem attacks on law abiding gun owners.
The newly elected Democrat Assembly majority wasted no time declaring war on us. Two days into the session, Majority Leader Eileen Filler-Corn, D-Fairfax led the charge to ban the longstanding tradition of carrying guns at the state Capitol and the Pocahontas Building, which houses the offices of the state legislators. “Our goal has got to be to keep everybody safe,” she proclaimed. Were we previously endangered? The prior rule allowed Virginians with a Concealed Handgun Permit to open carry or concealed carry on the grounds. In all the years this has been in effect, there have been NO instances of citizens misusing firearms. Filler-Corn perpetuates the idea that the presence of guns is inherently dangerous, and those that carry guns will do harm. Although her statement is a vacuous attack on gun owners, notice how difficult it is to argue with her sound bite: she’s for “safety”, after all.
Virginia State Police data reveals that there are 642,396 permit holders in the Commonwealth. 733 on average are revoked annually, or roughly 0.11%—barely one tenth of one percent. That is an impressive statistic supporting just how law abiding concealed carry permit holders are. John Lott’s data, taken from across the country, underlines the Virginia data that permit holders are not only exceptionally law abiding, they are even more law abiding than the police. Additionally, as the numbers of CHP holders in Virginia swelled from the 400,000s to the 600,000s, the murder rate per 100,000 dropped from 5.71 to 4.59. In other words, in the pictorial parlance of the times:
Not to be outdone, State Senator Dave Marsden doubled down on his “hot mic” insults to gun owners by claiming there are “mental health issues among many 2A supporters.” Such rhetoric ought to be considered in the context of the proposed “red flag” legislation that seeks to disarm, sans due process, gun owners deemed dangerous by courts, but provides no treatment for any related mental health condition. This is a standard ruse in their playbook: guilt by association.
These fact free attacks shouldn’t surprise us because the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree: puppet master Bloomberg has been slinging these attacks for some time now. Although his missives ought to be read, I’d put this one at the top of the list: “If you want to have a gun in your house, I think you’re pretty stupid—particularly if you have kids—but I guess you have a right to do that”. Not only does Bloomberg have armed security who accompany him on vacation despite local laws, he wants armed personnel monitor your children at his graduate school, while they learn about “gun safety”, aka confiscation. This is New York City-sized hypocrisy that he wants to inflict throughout the country.
Bloomberg’s animosity towards gun owners was most apparent following the recent attack in a Texas church that was ended in six seconds by an armed, prepared congregant. It is impossible to view the live-streamed footage of that event and not recognize that far many more lives would have been lost if the attacker were not stopped immediately. Despite the obvious, Bloomberg commented “[You] can’t let the average American have guns” as “it’s the job of law enforcement to have guns and to decide when to shoot.” At least he’s candid and clear. Translated into the common tongue for average Americans like us, he said: “I don’t care about your Second Amendment. You don’t have the right to keep and bear arms. I don’t care whether you live or die, but I’ll keep my armed guards.” There is no evidence that Bloomberg is familiar with average Americans, nor is there any evidence that he understands the depth of our commitment to our personal liberty and the right to defend ourselves.
I am at the Capitol lobbying my lawmakers on the 13th and 20th, asking them to oppose Northam’s gun confiscation agenda. My message is straightforward:
Dear Delegate Carr and Senator Hashmi,
I am one of your constituents and I am asking you to oppose Governor Northam’s gun control bills. Other states have demonstrated that gun control doesn’t stop crime. Virginia’s 600,000-plus concealed handgun permit owners are more law abiding than the police and are merely asking to be left alone. The “scary” rifles, pistols, magazines, and suppressors Northam seeks to ban are lawfully used for sport, hunting, and self-defense and are implicated in vanishingly small numbers of crimes in the Commonwealth, for example compared to hammers and fists. Keep in mind that guns are used lawfully and defensively vastly more often than they are used criminally.
Instead of focusing on guns, I ask that you focus on the causes of violence: untreated mental illness, and gang and drug violence that is endemic in impoverished inner cities. Please increase mental health funding to address the ⅔ of Virginia gun-related deaths that are suicides by providing evidence-based treatments such as crisis support and therapy, and please supportProject Ceasefire legislation that targets the great majority of the remaining ⅓ of gun-related deaths in the Commonwealth, criminal homicides.
–Dennis Petrocelli, MD is a clinical and forensic psychiatrist who has practiced for nearly 20 years in Virginia. He took up shooting in 2019 for mind-body training and self-defense, and is in the fight for Virginians’ gun rights.
Geissele Automatics has acquired the 240LW and 240LWS machine gun technical data package and intellectual property from Barrett Firearms Manufacturing. Barrett also announced it has entered into a technical support agreement for the 240LW and 240LWS with Geissele.
While probably not gunning for U.S. Military contracts against the NGSW, smaller NATO buys as forces modernize their general purpose machine gun inventory are a possibility. Nations like the UK, France, Australia, and New Zealand may all look at updated variants of the original FN GPMG.
Geissele and Barrett are both known names in specialty smaller order weapons and accessories. Barrett has several precision rifles, most known for the M82 and M107 .50 caliber rifles. Geissele has rails, triggers, and the URGI upper. Recently they got into making whole AR’s from the their earlier nearly complete rifle parts lists, Barrett does a line of premium AR15’s and AR10’s too.
With the two innovators working together it will be interesting to see who picks up their combined modernized machine gun.
Holosun has made a name for themselves in the red dot optic space. They’ve defied the ‘common knowledge’ that Chineseium optics are somehow automatically garbage tier.
I, and many others, have been impressed by several of their sights, and can without reservation recommend them as legitimate optics for carry and duty use.
But the team isn’t sitting on their hands now that they have a few winning designs on the market. They’re improving based on feedback and moving to cover emerging demands.
The 507c 2.0 on a G19 Gen 5 MOS
As you can see in the above two pictures, thanks to Sentinel Concepts for these, the 2.0 has some control changes. A larger and more intuitive control surface what looks to be a side access battery panel so that battery changes don’t require you to remove your sight.
507k via Soldier Systems
Also making its way around the internet is the 507k. With the smaller RMSc footprint it will be readily compatible with pistols like the Sig P365 XL and Agency Arms G43/43X/and 48. And if the new K design manages to maintain the durability of its predecessor it may end up as the most desirable micro dot in the current field. It’s also sporting side load battery.
I’m a fan of the side load concept. It is working like a champion in the 512.
NEWINGTON, N.H., (January 15, 2020) – SIG SAUER, Inc. is pleased to announce the United States Special Operation Command (USSOCOM), working closely with SIG SAUER, has completed a safety certification of the new SIG SAUER MG 338 Machine Guns, SIG SAUER 338 Norma Mag Ammunition, and Next Generation Suppressors. Following this historic official safety certification, SIG SAUER has completed deliveries of multiple systems, comprised of the MG 338 Machine Guns, 338 Norma Mag Ammunition, and Next Generation Suppressors – all researched, designed, engineered, and manufactured by SIG SAUER in the U.S.A.
“The safety certification of the complete SIG SAUER MG 338 system, and delivery of the system to USSOCOM is historically very significant. For the first time in decades the U.S. Military certified a new machine gun, ammunition, and suppressor at the same time, bringing new innovation, portability, and increased lethality to our ground forces, with all components coming from one company,” began Ron Cohen, President and CEO, SIG SAUER, Inc. “This certification was achieved following the outstanding performance of the complete MG 338 system through the rigors of the extensive function, durability, and safety tests set forth by USSOCOM.”
The SIG MG 338 bridges the gap between the current machine guns currently in use with the U.S. Military. In comparison to the current M240 (7.62x51cal) machine gun, which has been in service with the U.S. Military for 60 years, the SIG MG 338, is noticeably lighter, weighing only 20 pounds, and provides significantly more range and lethality. In comparison to the M2 (.50cal), which has been in service with the U.S. Military for 110 years, the MG 338 is approximately one-quarter the weight, and in a historic first, offers a man-portable solution with similar effective-range. Making this system even more desirable are the new SIG SAUER Next Generation Suppressors which drastically reduce the impact of harmful toxic fumes and signature, making the operator less vulnerable.
The SIG SAUER MG 338 machine gun is a belt-fed, lightweight medium machine gun weighing under 20lbs., chambered in 338 Norma Mag. The MG 338 features a short-stroke gas piston system and a proprietary recoil mitigation system, with a free-floating, quick-change barrel, ambidextrous controls, switchable feed tray, charging handle that can be alternated to either side depending on operator preference, and as a modern, multi-caliber, modular system the new SIG MG 338 is easily convertible to 7.62x51cal.
“We are incredibly proud of this historical accomplishment and honored to have received this safety certification by USSOCOM for the performance of the complete MG 338 system,” concluded Cohen.
About SIG SAUER, Inc.
SIG SAUER, Inc. is a leading provider and manufacturer of firearms, electro-optics, ammunition, airguns, suppressors, and training. For over 150 years SIG SAUER, Inc. has evolved, and thrived, by blending American ingenuity, German engineering, and Swiss precision. Today, SIG SAUER is synonymous with industry-leading quality and innovation which has made it the brand of choice amongst the U.S. Military, the global defense community, law enforcement, competitive shooters, hunters, and responsible citizens. Additionally, SIG SAUER is the premier provider of elite firearms instruction and tactical training at the SIG SAUER Academy. Headquartered in Newington, New Hampshire, SIG SAUER has almost 2,000 employees across eight locations. For more information about the company and product line visit: sigsauer.com.
TAMPA, FL, January 15, 2020 – Meopta’s groundbreaking DichroTech reticle technology, which delivers battery-free illumination, has won a 2020 Gray’s Best award. This advanced dichroic coating enables reticles in multiple color configurations to automatically adjust color tone and intensity in varying light conditions without the use of a battery. DichroTech provides maximum contrast and visibility, enhancing target acquisition while speeding and improving shot placement.
The following are excerpts from the Gray’s Sporting Journal 2020 Expeditions and Guides Annual:
“This is the first time in the 25-year history of Gray’s Best that we have given the award for a reticle technology, but when Meopta refers to their DichroTech as “game changing,” they are not exaggerating.
In recent years, the hot item has been illuminated reticles, with the illumination powered by batteries. These have steadily improved, with such modifications as variable intensity to suit ambient conditions and prevent loss of night vision, and automatic shut-offs to conserve battery power. Each has had its drawbacks, however, not least being the need for instant adjustment when seconds count (a glimpse of a moving deer at twilight) to batteries dying at the most inopportune moment, and the need to remember to carry spares.
Meopta’s new “dichroic” technology gives you a coating, for lack of a better term, which adjusts the reticle’s visibility to ambient light conditions with no action on your part. It is permanent, battery free, and never threatens your night vision.”
Terry Wieland, Shooting Editor
“We are honored to receive this prestigious award from Gray’s Sporting Journal and appreciate their recognition of Meopta’s efforts to offer hunters and shooters a unique alternative to battery-powered illuminated riflescopes,” said Pavel Stastny, Senior Director of Sales and Marketing at Meopta. “DichroTech reticles have been well received, and we will continue to add more reticle options using this new technology.”
DichroTech reticles are currently available in the MeoStar and Optika6 riflescope lines with more offerings to come.
Meopta has been producing high-end European optics for over 85 years and is a leading manufacturer & partner to many of the world’s finest optical brands. Meopta conceives, develops and manufactures precision optical and electro/optical systems for semiconductor, medical, aerospace and military industries as well as for consumer markets.
RETAY’s entry to the premium target and upland market offers a breathtaking new design coupled with RETAY’s most innovative features for superior sporting performance!
Easton Maryland, January 10 2020 – RETAY ARMS LTD. STI. of Konya Turkey announces the release of the ALL NEW Antalya SS “Super Sport” series of semi automatic shotguns in the United States.The Antalya SS is designed to be a platform for the sport shooting enthusiast. While the line will eventually fill out to include dedicated target configurations, the 2020 launch of the Antalya line will focus on a versatile SS configuration which is well suited for a variety of pursuits. It’s a shotgun that can take the shooter from an afternoon of sporting clays to a morning pheasant hunt without missing a beat, offering flexibility and performance in one feature packed package.Like RETAY’s other offerings, the Antalya SS is powered by a stock based inertia action based on the original design by Bruno Civolani. It will feature RETAY’s patented Inertia Plus System. Inertia Plus ™ is the world’s most advanced and refined kinetic energy driven rotating shotgun bolt design. The Retay “Inertia Plus System™” effectively eliminates misfires that have plagued inertia shotgun until now. The system uses an ingenious active torsion mechanism inside the bolt carrier body to apply added rotational force to the bolt head. The system essentially forces the bolt head to rotate into lock up with the breach even when conditions are less than ideal. At the same time, the “Inertia Plus System™” prevents unintended disengagement of the bolt head from the breach. If disengagement is caused by sudden jarring of the firearm or accidentally snagging the bolt on a branch while in the field, the “Inertia Plus System™” corrects itself, automatically returning the bolt to full lock up with the battery. The firearm remains ready for action and ready to fire without any intervention on the part of the operator. The Inertia Plus System has been called “the first affordable, obvious, and substantial improvement to the Bruno Civolani action in 50 years” http://www.randywakeman.com/OntheRetayArmsInertiaPlusAction.htm
The Antalya SS features an innovative two piece receiver design that mounts a steel chamber inside of the aircraft aluminum receiver making use of an alloy shroud to visually meld the two parts into one seamless receiver. The remarkable receiver is milled from a billet of aircraft aluminum and features decorative accents including some premium incarnations with traditional scroll engraving and high grade walnut. The Antalya SS features RETAY’s patented quick release trigger group with a newly designed shape specifically crafted to make loading easy. Additionally, the Antalya SS features a proprietary design that allows for the magazine tube to be emptied without the need to rack the action of the shotgun to eject shells; RETAY calls this system “Easy Unload ™” The Antalya SS will come from the factory ready to cycle an array of hunting and target loads but will be specially tuned to effectively cycle the lighter variety of upland game and specialty target loads.
This has been an quiet lead up to SHOT. Usually this time is filled with product drops, and new announcements, and all the new year new tech insanity. This year it’s toned quite down (for now). New products are coming through the pipelines but very little is ‘New‘. We aren’t in the development swing the late 2000’s brought that gave us the SCAR, ACR, and their competition. The NGSW is still running but I think we’re very early and have been burned once to often for excitement to manifest beyond the theoretical.
Vortex Made Noise in that quiet
The Razor HD Gen III is new. It is exciting as a leap in the technology standards. A 1-10x DaylightBright Low Power Variable Optic.
Specs, so I don’t have to type them.
Finally.. This is what we’ve been waiting for…
I’m not going to dig deep into the Gen II history, but Vortex set the standard for what a 1-6x should do. Some of the most successful optics since then have emulated that. Clear, light, simple, bright, and durable. The Gen II has seen combat overseas with SOCOM and remained an industry leading standard here at home among demanding shooters.
But the Razor HD Gen III sets a new standard, one that I will be curious how companies strive to match.
Same Size. Same Weight. New Capabilities
Vortex didn’t do variable 10x first.
They didn’t do 1-10x first.
What they gave us was the Razor LPVO, and they’re doing it again. Better.
They housed the Gen III in a 34mm tube. Not a one off size with little mount or scope ring support. Vortex is giving us the same length and same weight Razor, in an widely supported mount/ring size, that can drop into the same place as the previous LPVO. Every worthwhile mount comes in equivalent 30mm/34mm layouts.
DaylightBright.
Yes. Really. Front Focal Plane Daylight Bright. The struggle for every single optic manufacturer in the LPVO market has been designing a reticle system that will illuminate like a red dot sight.
That is the measure of ‘Daylight Bright’. It contrasts like a red dot. Not ‘you can kinda see red’ in the reticle on maximum brightness.
Most manufacturers up to this point have disappointed us repeatedly with their FFP offerings that claimed to be ‘Daylight Bright’. It’s understandable, the size of a FFP reticle in high magnification erector optics leaves almost no surface to work at illuminating. Most manufacturers had settled for contrasting illumination. The EOTech VUDU 1-6x FFP is an excellent example of contrasting illumination done well, but it isn’t ‘Daylight Bright’. EOTech’s 1-8x is, but it is Second Focal Plane.
The Razor HD Gen III has red dot contrast in the First Focal Plane. It does what the second focal plane LPVOs up to this point held dominion over, it can function in the red dot role. FFP optics have needed to rely on good reticle design, unilluminated, to carry them at 1x, which as a consequence made the reticles thick at maximum magnification.
Setting 6
RMR
Setting 11
The illumination doesn’t vanish at off angles, something otherwise bright front focal plane scopes struggled with in the past. The useable daylight settings aren’t limited to the top 1 or 2. Setting 6 of 11 is useable in daylight, just like an Aimpoint, RMR, or other quality dot. You aren’t left clicking through nearly a dozen brightness levels you will never use.
The illumination dial itself is a lockable turret with off settings in between each brightness. Just pull the knob around the battery housing (CR2032), pick your setting, push the knob to lock it. The Razor HD Gen III won’t turn off or change brightness inadvertently, another common concern on certain exposed control styles.
The battery life is rumored to be exceptional. I have no confirmation, but 200 hours is the anecdotal estimate for setting 11, with several times that life as you go down to the everyday use numbers.
10,000 hours or functionally 1 year? Maybe setting 6 or 7. But I know I would’ve killed most of my other LPVO’s batteries by now.
The Enhanced Battle Reticle is either Minute of Angle (MOA) or Milliradian (MRAD) pattern, Vortex is doing both for user needs. The EBR center dot is 1 MOA, the 4 illuminatable segments around the center dot encircle a ~4 MOA space and the outer diameter is 5.5 MOA.
At lower magnification the Razor HD Gen III operates like a 4 MOA red dot sight, not dissimilar to an M68 CCO/Comp Series Aimpoint.
The reticle features a quick range estimation scale to 600 yards at the 12 o’clock position and is cleanly marked to 32 MOA at 3, 6, and 9 o’clock. Quick holdovers out to roughly ~650 yards and wind leads for up to a 20 MPH crosswind are scaled under the reticle. The BDC is calculated for 5.56/.223 in 55gr-77gr at M4-M16 muzzle velocities and is useable with 168-175gr 7.62/.308 loads. As with all BDC’s the further you vary from the muzzle velocity and ballistic coefficient in the glass, the further off from the BDC the impacts will be. The reticle design will lend itself to very quick live fire corrections as the shooter or a spotter tracks impacts.
Note: The MRAD variant features a ‘Christmas Tree’ type reticle and foregoes the BDC
The Razor HD Gen III features all the etched-in functionality of an ACOG variant, the CQB flexibility of an red dot, and the full observational capabilities of a DMR variable optic. It manages to do that without cluttering the whole viewing window with hash marks. The full reticle breakdown is here.
Controls
Capped turrets
Like the Gen II, the Razor HD Gen III features large cap-protected turrets for control surfaces. The caps, like the locking illumination dial, protect a change from being inadvertently thrown into the optic by hitting a dial on gear or environmental obstacles… like VTAC barriers… but who uses those, right?
The turrets themselves have enough tension to prevent most inadvertent changes, having the top turret exposed to throw a more precise range adjustment in for a longer shot is eminently doable. That’s also, if I recall correctly, a requested feature of the LPVO military optic solicitations along with multiple reticle options.
Performance
If you’ve shot a Razor Gen II, or another excellent LPVO, you know. The experiences translate but the capabilities are increased.
So much America
With the transition to front focal plane, greater accuracy in observation and measurement metrics is both possible and simplified. The increase to 10x maximum magnification allows target identification and discrimination at greater distances and makes detailed observations at current distances easier. Going by the rough estimate that you want 1x of magnification per 50 yards to the target for detailed observation, and 1x per 100 yards for basic observation, the Razor HD Gen III can cover every tactical rifle in current calibers to great effect. Even rifles in 6.5 Creedmoor or the developmental 6.8mm are going to have incredible observation and engagement capability underneath a Gen III.
The glass clarity is top notch. ‘Edge to edge’ is thrown around a lot, but the Razor gives us an optic that has a forgiving eyebox that doesn’t give distract you with fisheye and scope shadow. The illumination doesn’t vanish if you’re outside the ideal eyebox. Lens selection, combined with the 100 yard fixed parallax, still delivers very minimal distortion at close distances on 1x. Even as close as 2 yards the center of of the optic provides a clear sight picture, with the only notable distortion as the image crosses the edges of the viewing window. Compared to the RMR at the same distance the Razor delivers less distortion, as the RMR is very slightly magnified due to lens geometry.
At higher magnifications the eyebox behind the Gen III tightens, as all variable optics do, but it accomplishes this without shifting the eye relief. Even at 10x the scope will snap up and present an easy to acquire sight picture, aided by the illuminated center.
Conclusion
The Razor HD Gen III is, like its predecessor, setting a new capability standard for what a general purpose rifle optic can be expected to do. It combines what previously required 3 different optics, ostensibly on 3 different rifles, and has merged that capability into one optic. A Gen III allows whatever rifle its riding on to operate as a 1x CQB RDS platform, a moderate zoom 2-4x where the ACOGs comfortably sat, and as a DMR optic more capable than what any previous scopes could offer.
This flexibility in role will allow users, especially those in a team environment, to fill the role needed on demand and not shuffle to the team member who’s carrying the special gun. The individual user can ask their rifle to perform within its full effective range of capability and distance.
I suspect this, or a close variant of, to be submitted into all three military optic trials.
Virginia Governor Ralph Northam, accompanied by his wife Pamela Northam announces he will not resign during a news conference Richmond, Virginia, U.S. February 2, 2019. REUTERS/ Jay Paul. This was during the 'Black Face' yearbook scandal.
The Commonwealth of Virginia has begun legislative process of gutting their Second Amendment rights. They banned firearms in the State Capitol in advance of this process already, curtailing Second Amendment advocates from being armed during their protesting of the very reasons they should be armed.
* SB22 and SB69 were combined and will now be sent forward for consideration by the full Senate. This will suffice to reinstate a law limiting Virginia residents to the purchase of one handgun per month. * SB12 and SB70 were combined and sent forward. This will amount to a requirement for universal background checks. * SB615, SB450, and SB505 were combined and sent forward as SB35, which will do away with state preemption and allow each locality to make its own gun control ordinances. * SB240 was sent forward. This will legalize the removal of firearms from someone’s house without due process — a.k.a. red flag laws. * SB16, known as the “assault weapons ban,” has been killed and will not move forward. However, there’s been a recent rash of support for HB961, which is in effect the new “assault weapons ban” that the governor is supporting. It is probably worse overall, and includes a clause by which “assault weapons” may be “grandfathered” in exchange for registration.
Zenith’s Facebook page has a succinct recap of the efforts so far. Since Michael Bloomberg bought and paid for the state to the tune of a few million bucks the newly empowered anti-gun democrats are going all in to pass assault weapon bans, carry restrictions, magazine restrictions, red flags, and anything else they can in the name of ‘gun safety’.
Via VCDL
It might be a little awkward to explain to all those green localities how you just did the things they all told you not to do.
If you’re in Virginia, keep writing and being vocal about the opposition. It couldn’t be clearer this is a bought and paid for attempt to curtail the Second Amendment in a location previously strong on that right. This is a testbed, a chance to see if they buy the legislature and stack it what will happen?
Also beware, the anti-gun forces stacking this heaping pile of gun control onto the Virginias would like nothing more than a pro-gun ‘extremist‘, or someone who looks close enough, to pop off and do something stupid. Get in a fight… punch a congressional rep or aid…. or draw a gun.
Be careful. Keep your heads on and stay civil. Don’t be the one.
Regent's BR9 went from just another pistol to a fully customized pistol for shooting action pistol.
The news that Browning was ceasing production of the Hi Power was to say the least depressing. I know the younger crowd prefers the latest polymer wonder nine that holds enough bullets for a movie gunfight scene. However there are still a diehard crowd of traditionalists. We like steel pistols, quality leather holsters, steak medium/medium rare and can get by with a flip phone. I knew this would not be the end of this iconic pistol.
To my delight my buddy Karl the chief pistol plumber at KGB Custom told me he had heard of this new “Hi Power” that was going to be imported. This helped raise my spirits news and the arrival KGB’s full custom Hi Power we previously reviewed here at GAT Daily made me feel better. I went in search of this new pistol and found that Regent was the importer. Further research showed that every shooters friend for “gun stuff”; Brownells was a distributor.
An email to sent to Brownells verify they had Regent SR9 ins stock and to ensure they had my FFL and other required information. Brownells has both the stainless and dark blue versions. Dark blue would be good for the project I had in mind.
A few days later the BR9 arrived. Fit and finish were typical of Turkish imports, flawless. When I put the BR9 next to any of my various Hi Powers it looked like a factory twin. All the lines were perfect, it even had that damnedable trigger disconnect safety and the blood drawing large ring hammer; yep a perfect P35 clone.
With the summer weather cooperating and the temperature not reading par boil, I took the BR9 out to the range. I wanted to see how it ran and how well regulated the three dot factory sights were. I was pleasantly surprised to see the sights were dead on at 25 yards. Even with the magazine disconnect the pistol fired a decent 5”, 10 shot group. I fired over 100 rounds without a hiccup. The one thing I did notice was the hammer bite. I suspected the large ring hammer was going to be painful. The BR9 was going to need some help to make it a shooter.
The OEM large ring hammer would leave a painful mark. You can see Regent’s version of a lo-mount sight too.
After this range session, I gave the pistol a more detailed inspection, I found it was not a perfect clone. An email to the importer verified my hunch; two areas were not to Browning Mk lll specifications; the safety/hammer strut and dovetails of the sights. I asked why they did this and were they going to correct these areas. The answers were brief if not blunt; because we did and no we do not plan to; alrighty then. As a Hi Power aficionado I want this pistol to succeed and politely informed the importer not using Browning sight dovetails and safety stud size, they could see sales fall flat. Browning dovetail sights would allow the table top gunsmith to install sights for the cost of the sights. Having non-traditional dovetails adds an extra $200 plus to the job.
This view shows just how wide the C&S Wide Trigger is.
Fortunately, Cylinder & Slide has a no bite, Drop-in Trigger Job offered with a safety/hammer strut to fit the BR9 and a Hi Power Wide Trigger were ordered. This helps reduce the felt trigger pull weight. Knowing the way C&S pays attention to details, I was not surprised when all the parts fit perfectly. The trigger pull was reduced to 5 pounds. I chose to keep the OEM mainspring instead of the C&S reduced weight spring that would have reduced the pull weight to 4ish pounds. Keeping the OEM mainspring would help reduce frame to slide impact if shot some hot loads.
Cylinder & Slide’s “No Bite Hammer” gives plenty of clearance and does not draw blood.
The most important part in the DTJ is the no-bite hammer. While the reduced trigger pull is great, the OEM large ring hammer draws blood when shooting. I have had a non-custom Hi Power cut me deeply enough I had to shoot a Glock to finish a class. This incident led me to learn how to modify a ring or tang hammer or just install C&S’s no bite hammer. Even though the BR9/C&S pistol did not bite at the range, I can see the BR9 going to KGB Custom for a beavertail. If I grip too high shooting an action pistol, l know blood will be drawn.
Heinie’s front fiber optic can be red or green; both give you a crisp front sight.
With the trigger pull addressed, it was time to fix the sights. Over the years, I have been a fan of Heinie Sights. They give a sharp clear picture. The Ledge allows you to rack your pistol off your belt or a prop is need be and they are tough as nails. A couple of emails later, the slide was off to Heinie to have sights installed. Normally this is a quick out and back job, but the non-standard dovetails, required Mr. Heinie’s evaluation of the slide. He sent me an email back and told me the slide was not as hard as a Browning or FN slide so the dovetails might not be “Heinie perfect”. I do not know how much better the cuts could have been, they looked outstanding to me. Mr. Heinie we mere mortals appreciate your being so up front about this issue. The Ledge rear and fiber optic front were dead on Point of Aim/Point of Impact at 25 yards. Having Heinie’s Ledge and fiber optic sights installed was around $250, check with Heinie.com for cost and turnaround time.
Mr. Heinie may feel the installation is not up to his standards, but this Ledge rear looks perfect to me.
The last addition to the BR9 was a
set of grips from VZ Grips and some anti-skid tape on the back and front
straps. This combination gives a rock solid grip surface and it looks good too.
I also topped the entire BR9 off with a Woodland Camouflage job using DuraCoat.
Finished pistol in hand it was off to the range. I took test ammunition from Black Hills, Federal, Hornady, Sig Sauer and Super Vel. Bullet weights ranged from 100 to 150 grains. Bullet types were full metal jacket, various hollow points and Black Hills HoneyBadger a solid copper controlled expansion bullet. Even the unique bullet design of the HoneyBadger did not affect feeding. Over 200 rounds were fired and there were no reliability issues.
The completed custom Regent BR9 in Woodland Duracoat with its the test ammunition. Bikers Bullets were a special run by Super Vel for Sturgis.
When it came to accuracy, there was
no one stand out. The average size of the 5 shot groups fired at 25 yards was
just over 3”. Since many of these groups had a few rounds touching, it is a
safe bet this pistol could should 3” groups. At nearly 60, I am more than happy
with these groups.
I am hoping our friends at Brownells
will be able to get Regent’s importer to change the dovetails and safety strut to
a standard Hi Power dimensions. With those two changes the BR9 could become a
perfect pistol for the home gunsmith. If you are looking for a quality clone of
a Hi Power, get Brownells to deliver the Regent BR9 to your local dealer. With
the BR9 you too can get the Hi Power bug. The steel frame and ergonomic design
allows you shoot fast, accurately and have fun doing too.
Are you ready for what could meet you on the trail?
This
past summer I took a trip out to Colorado and Wyoming to shoot a couple of
pistol matches. It was also an opportunity to hike and climb in the Rockies
around Colorado Springs and the flatlands around Gillette, Wyoming. Just prior
to taking the trip I had read an article online by one of the hiking, outdoor
magazines that you should not carry a handgun hiking.
In my world that is not going to happen because there are rabid animals, carnivores that have been known to attack humans and of course there are the bad two legged type of critters. I will not tell others what to do, however I choose to be prepared. If you choose to carry when in the back woods carry a handgun that functions well in all conditions. When you are out in the Badlands, Rockies or the High Plains, or strolls roll through your favorite local haunt; your sidearm to be able to standup to the element. A pistol such as an H&K VP9 is a good bet and was my choice.
The VP9 like many of its
contemporaries is virtually impervious to foul weather and sweat. This is
achieved by coating a stainless steel slide and all of the pins and springs
with H&K’s proprietary corrosion resistant finish. My VP9 has been out in
monsoons, dust storms and has had sweat running off of it. It has never failed
to function through all of this.
A service style pistol like this H&K VP9 is ideal for field carry. It is nearly impervious to weather, its accurate and holds 15 rounds of 9mm.
Others will say their Glocks, Smith
M&Ps and other striker fired polymer pistols have endured the same or
worse. They too are right. All of the pistols we consider “duty weapons” are
built to survive harsh use.
If I were out in the woods in the spring or fall, I would opt for a stainless steel revolver because pistols generally do not operate with “snake shot”. “Snake Shot” is a load of small pellets meant to dispense, snakes. It is not uncommon on cool mornings or late afternoons for snakes are out sunning themselves and you may need to dispense with one and still have cartridges for dangers that walk.
A stainless steel revolver like this Ruger GP100 is ideal for the field.
When you are off the beaten trail, it is important to carry extra ammunition. It is easy to carry extra ammunition for a pistol, just carry an extra magazine or two. It’s not that hard to carry extra loads for your revolver; a couple speed loaders, a 2X2X2 pouch and a speed strip with extra snake shot and you should be ready to go.
Speeloaders, 2X2X2 pouches and speed strips are all good ways to carry extra ammunition for your revolver.Safariland’s GLS holster is fast and secure thanks to the trigger guard lock that is released by the catch as you acquire a grip on your pistol.
Whatever your choice of handgun, you need a holster for it. Since hiking and climbing take you across uneven terrain where you can take a fall, your holster needs to have active retention. This means athumb break or other mechanical retention device. If you take a fall with a simple friction fit holster odds are high that your sidearm will become dislodged. In the worst case scenario, you will lose it. This is not something you want to deal with. I prefer Safariland’s GLS or ALS holsters for pistols and a thumb break or retention strap for a revolver. If you are not used to a retention holster, make sure you practice with it. Your life may depend on it.
Thumb break holsters like this pancake style holster from Galco are ideal to keep revolvers handy.
The other item I carry when going in the field is a large fixed blade knife. Having read all of the articles on proper everyday carry, I know you all carry a quality clip-it knife. That is all well and good around town, but off the beaten path you need something that can hack down a tree branch be it for firewood or to make a split. While we all say we will never need to do that, humor me; Murphy’s Laws tend to come true at the worst time.
When sheathed the Province will lay close to your body so is it at hand when needed
One of the best examples of a knife
that would fill this ticket is Spyderco’s Province. This Bowie style knife was
designed by Jim Ankerson and the leather sheath by Darrin Sanders to ensure you
keep the Province handy.
Ankerson’s sheath will keep the 12.33″ Province handy for many years.
The Province is ideally suited for use in the outdoors because of the CMP4V steel. The steel is enhanced with Vanadium and Molybdenum. These additives make the steel durable, corrosion resistant, holds an edge and it holds an edge. The full tang 6.79″ blade with its contoured G10 grips fills your hand and gives you above average purchase in all conditions.
With its clip blade design, the knife balances forward of the Handguard. This puts the weight of the blade behind each strike, to make short work of branches and other items you are hacking through. The flat grind helps give the 0.154″ wide blade of the Province strength, reducing the odds of breaking the knife.
Spyderco’s Province is a serious “Bowie knife” that is ideal for serious adventures.
Remember you and you alone are
responsible for your safety. This is even more true when you are off the beaten
trail. Being able to defend yourself from predators of all types and having the
means to get kindling for a fire may save your life.
I got my confirmation last night and IWI is jumping into a crowded AR field. With a plan it sounds like. More on that when I have a conversation on that front.
Now onto the AR, let’s take a look…
Zion -15
M-LOK freefloat. Button rifled CMV barrel. Midlength gas on a 16″. B5 Furniture. It honestly reminds me of the Tac II Carbine from FN. No frills, just works.
$899. No bullshit. Game on.
The rumor however is domestic production is in the works. So all those rifles, shotguns, and handguns we want, that have to make it through importation currently, will instead be domestic products.
Who else has done that? *Looks at SIG* *Shifts gave to FN*
For anyone looking for a solid base AR from a known name in quality rifles, it fits the bill to a T.
