BCO Backcountry Fire Kit—Ready for the Wilderness Life

By

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August 28, 2025

GAT_BCO_Firekit (1) — BCO Backcountry Fire Kit: the ideal stand-alone setup or a foundation for a more extensive kit.

If you can’t make a fire with this BCO Backcountry Fire Kit, the woods may not be the place for you! All kidding aside, this kit offers numerous ways to make fire. The kit gives beginners a chance to practice on three types of tinders utilized with a ferro rod.

The BCO Backcountry Fire Kit

BCO: Born in the Wild, Built for a Lifetime
BCO Backcountry Fire Kit
Summer Kit Testing
And The Fire!
Backcountry Fire Kit Conclusion

BCO: Born in the Wild, Built for a Lifetime

Since 2011, Badger Claw Outfitters (BCO) has crafted gear as tough and adaptable as the people who carry it. From hand‑tooled leather to waxed canvas and rugged nylon, every stitch, seam, and rivet is made in the USA and backed for life. This isn’t just equipment — it’s a promise born from the founder’s years hunting, fishing, and living off the land, from Alaska’s wilds to the Texas hill country. Whatever the journey, gear up with confidence and make every mile, every campfire, every memory count.

BCO Backcountry Fire Kit

When the weather turns foul and the wind cuts deep, this compact kit turns a cold night into a warm camp. Built for those who know a Bic lighter isn’t enough. The BCO Backcountry Fire Kit delivers the tools and assurance needed to make fire when it counts.

The writer kept the Poplar bark in the provided BCO Small Zip Pouch to offer some resistance against moisture.

Stainless Steel Collapsible Pocket Bellows	Drives oxygen right to your ember’s heart, turning a stubborn spark into a roaring flame with minimal effort.
Fatwood Shaving Stick	Burns hot and fast, even when soaked, giving you a dependable fuel source pulled straight from nature’s resin‑rich bounty.
Alcohol Swabs	Ignite instantly, doubling as emergency tinder when conditions leave everything else damp and useless.
Jute Twine	Fluffs into a tinder nest in seconds, catching sparks with ease and speeding your first flame.
5/16” Ferro Rod	Throws a shower of molten sparks that light your fire in rain, snow, or high altitude — no fuel, no fail.
Carbide Steel Striker	Bites into the ferro rod cleanly, producing hotter, longer sparks for faster ignition.
Laser‑Etched Matte Black Tin	Shields your kit from the elements, keeping contents dry and ready, with enough space for extra tinder.
BCO Small Zip Pouch	Organizes and protects your fire‑making lifeline, slips easily into a cargo pocket or pack.
Fire Kit ID Tag	Marks your gear with pride and makes it quick to spot when time matters.
MSRP	$31.95

Summer Kit Testing

That’s right, making fire in the heat of the summer seems strange. Time wasn’t my friend when it was time to test this kit before an extended overseas trip. I knew when I would come back, it would be cool autumn weather, perfect for making fires. However, I had to crank out a couple of cook fires to get a feel for how the kit handles.

Since it was the heat of summer, I made sure to have small fires, and this is where my Uberleben flat stove came in handy. Nothing like a small contained cook fire when it’s about 100 degrees Fahrenheit.

Preparing for a fire, as usual, involved making sure I had all the right components: toothpick, pencil, and finger thickness. Then, I needed thumb thickness, in addition to larger chunks of wood used for small fuel. I split down the larger pieces using my heavier tool. For the most part, I relied on twigs and dead standing wood. Summer in my area doesn’t necessarily mean dry weather; we often experience rain in the Northeast during these months.

And The Fire!

A stick of Fatwood was a godsend in the humidity. However, it didn’t start there. I used jute twine and shredded it to create the initial spark. Then, I added shavings and slivers of fat wood to keep the flame alive until the small, damp twigs ignited. Eventually, the pencil and finger-thick pieces were ablaze, and I knew I would have a sustainable fire if I kept that up.

On another occasion, I stored Poplar bark in the supplied BCO Small Zip Pouch for marginal protection from dampness. Marginal being the keyword here. The poplar bark was a little damp but quickly dried out as I repeatedly struck the ferro rod into the tinder bundle. You can consider this technique as warming or charring the tinder material.

A good ferro rod needs a good striker like the kind included in the BCO Backcountry Fire Kit.

The BCO Backcountry Fire Kit has a hidden gem in carbide form. A good carbide steel striker stays sharp and has an evil edge for scraping tenders and the Ferro rod. I could have easily cut myself if I had not been careful or wearing a glove. However, the striker is too small for wearing a glove, and gloves are fumbly.

The stainless steel collapsible fire bellows was perfect for pointing towards the small opening of a wood stove. This was a much simpler bellows than I’ve seen before. It didn’t have a knob at the top or bottom, or a key ring or other pieces that could come loose.

And of course, the pouch that came with it makes it easier to add components for fire-making or survival.

The BCO Backcountry Fire Kit is compact, leaving room to expand.

Backcountry Fire Kit Conclusion

Made in the USA and guaranteed for life, the BCO Backcountry Fire Kit doesn’t just help you start a fire — it enables you to stay alive, stay warm, and stay in control of your adventure. Carry confidence everywhere and ignite fires anywhere!

Going SBS – Short Shotguns Rule- Free Stamps Part 3

By

Travis Pike

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August 28, 2025

In January, the tax price goes from $200 to $0, and I imagine we’ll see a flood of Form 1 and Form 4s. Suppressors and SBRs will explode in popularity, and we’ll see shortages of both. Sadly, one group of NFA weapons will likely be ignored, and that’s the humble SBS, or short-barreled shotgun.

Only men and women of the refined class will appreciate the short shotgun and what it can do for them. From home defense to just having fun, a short-barreled shotgun is great for everyone. Which guns make for solid short-barreled shotguns? Well, I have five candidates primed for your next Form 1 or Form 4.

990 Aftershock

First on the list is the 990 Aftershock, released early this year, and I’m an instant fan. The 990 Aftershock comes as a firearm, meaning it’s not a shotgun. You can buy it now and enjoy it until your stamp comes back. Mossberg wisely made it compatible with 590 stocks, meaning once that stamp comes back, you have tons of stock options. You have stuff like the Magpul SGA, folding stocks, and more.

Finding a short-barreled semi-auto shotgun is tough. The 990 Aftershock gives us an affordable, easy-to-find platform that’s Form 1 ready. It’s the most drama-free and affordable semi-auto SBS option on the market. Plus, it’s reliable, fun to shoot, and comes from a beloved shotgun company. The 990 Aftershock will be the first free stamp I hit the file button for.

Mossberg Shockwave

If semi-autos aren’t for you, the natural option for most people will be the Mossberg Shockwave. The Shockwave is likely responsible for the majority of Form 1 SBS guns on the market. It’s a firearm with a 14-inch barrel and a pistol-grip-only design. The Shockwave gives us an incredibly affordable SBS candidate that also comes in .410 and 20 gauge.

Mossberg also makes a variety of Shockwave variants. This includes hardwood models, SPX models, magazine-fed models, and more. The Shockwave is nothing more than a 590 with a short barrel. This makes it easy to customize and turn it into whatever type of short-barreled shotgun you want it to be.

Remington TAC-14

The Remington TAC-14 gives you the same treatment as the Shockwave, but for the 870 platform. The 870 tends to be the more refined shotgun compared to the Mossberg. It’s slicker, a little more of a tank, and is just as customizable. The TAC-14 series has a 14-inch barrel and makes it easy to mount any standard 870 stock.

My dream TAC-14 SBS would feature all wood furniture, and that’s a possibility. I’m not sure if the current incarnation of Remington is putting new TAC-14s out, but tons are floating around the used market. There tends to be a distinct line between Mossberg and Remington fans, so it’s nice that the Remington guys and gals have options.

Genesis Arms GEN-12

This takes us into Form 4 and Form 1 territory. The Genesis Arms shotguns are one of the very few magazine-fed shotguns I’d ever suggest. These are AR-like in shape and size, but they use a recoil-operated design. Genesis Arms produces both short-barreled shotgun variants and firearm variants you can make your own SBS.

The PDS, or Personal Defense Shotgun, variant even pairs an uber-short five-inch barrel with a 12-gauge suppressor. The GEN-12 comes in other barrel lengths, including 7, 10.5, and 14.5 inches. They also have a stockless AOW version, which isn’t an SBS, but close enough. These are mag-fed guns with AR-like controls and handling. They are reliable, fun, and Genesis Arms gets credit for their creative SBS and firearm designs.

Heritage Badlander

Last, but not least, is the Heritage Badlander. This one will take some effort and a gunsmith to do it right. The Heritage Badlander series is a traditional western-style side-by-side shotgun that is a ton of fun. The only way they could be more fun is to cut the barrels short. A short-barreled side-by-side shotgun is old-school cool, and you get bonus points for cutting off the stock for a Lupara.

The Badlander comes in 12 gauge, 20 gauge, and .410 bore. We get different wood finish options as well as black or stainless steel for the barrel and receiver. A short, light, and easily maneuverable double-barreled shotgun is the best home defense option of 1877, but these days it’s a fun and classic design. Plus, how else will I play El Mariachi?

The Small World of the SBS

Short-barreled shotguns are a total blast. They are underrated and can be an effective defensive weapon. I’m not sure why a couple of inches make such a difference, but it truly does. The shorter the better is my general attitude towards shotguns, and I can’t wait to flood the ATF with my Form 1 shotgun contraptions.

Keeping Your Family Fed – Food Storage Basics

By

Jim Cobb

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August 27, 2025

When it comes to emergency food storage, contrary to popular belief, you don’t need to go out and buy a ton of special survival food or military rations. Going that route is cost-prohibitive for most people. Plus, it can lead to digestive and other health issues for some folks.

Instead, let’s look at a more common-sense approach to food storage.

Food Storage Basics

Keep it Familiar
Home Preserved
First In, First Out
Use Fresh Foods First

Keep it Familiar

Store what you eat and eat what you store. In other words, concentrate on the shelf-stable foods you and your family eat on the daily. You know you like them. Just as important, you know they like you. Meaning they aren’t likely to cause digestive upset.

Food storage - grocery store — The grocery store has a wide range of foods that are well-suited for your food storage plan.

Most families in the United States buy their food at grocery stores. What foods found there would be good choices for stocking up?

Canned goods
Pouched meats
Dry pasta
Jarred or canned sauce
Rice
Beans
Soup mixes
Baking mixes
Instant potatoes

Food storage - canned soup — Most families make use of at least some shelf-stable foods purchased at grocery stores, such as canned soups.

If all you need to do is heat it up or perhaps add water, it’s probably a good candidate for your food storage plans. No, these aren’t usually the healthiest foods in the store. But all you’re looking to do here is fill bellies for a short time.

Home Preserved

Food storage - home canned — Learn how to can foods at home. It’s a valuable skill and it can save you money in the long run.

You can always preserve your food through canning, dehydrating, or even freeze-drying. This is a great way to use garden produce and meat you’ve harvested. Additionally, preserving food at home can allow you to take better advantage of sales at the grocery store. For example, if the store has ears of corn at a great price, you can buy extra and then can it at home for your food storage.

First In, First Out

Another reason to focus on foods you eat regularly is that doing so makes rotation of the supply easier. Don’t look at your food storage as a buy it and forget it situation. It should be in constant rotation. While food doesn’t automatically go bad the day after the date printed on the can or package, it’s a good practice to always use the oldest food first.

One approach is to mark each can, box, or package with the date you purchased it. Store everything so the newest items are at the back of the shelf, pushing the older stuff forward.

Use Fresh Foods First

If the power goes out, the food in your refrigerator will be okay for up to about four hours. After that is when things start to turn. Your freezer will last 24-48 hours or so, depending on how full it is. When possible, consume food before it goes bad.

Things like dairy products and eggs will likely be lost causes. But fruits and vegetables aren’t going to rot instantly. As food in the freezer thaws, cook it up. Share with neighbors if you can. The idea here is that the food is better off going into stomachs than trash cans.

Food storage - fresh food — Use fresh foods before they go bad, if at all possible.

Using the food in the fridge and freezer first will also extend how long the rest of your food will last you and your family. Don’t jump right to the emergency stash.

Best SBRs – Free Stamps Part 2

By

Travis Pike

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August 27, 2025

I’m betting that once tax stamps become free, the number of Form 1s filed to make SBRs will explode. They’ll be everywhere. Everything will be SBR’ed from ARs to derringers. Yeah, derringers, we know someone will turn an NAA micro revolver into an SBR. (That someone is me.)

However, we’ll keep things grounded today. Let’s dig into the five excellent potential SBRs when those stamps go from $200 to $0 in January.

Top SBRs for Your Free Tax Stamp

SIG Sauer Rattler
Springfield Kuna
Rossi Brawler
A Krink Wannabe
An Mk 18
SBRs: Short Is Better

SIG Sauer Rattler

For years, I resisted .300 Blackout platforms. The ammo was just too pricey for me to justify. These days, the cost difference between 5.56 and .300 Blackout has narrowed a fair bit, which is sad because 5.56 has gotten expensive. I blame Ready or Not for making me want an LVAW, but I’ll settle with a SIG Sauer Rattler with its ultra-short barrel and a can.

The 5.5-inch barrel is begging for a can, and even with a can, we get an extremely lightweight and maneuverable platform. The gun comes stock-ready thanks to the 1913 rail, so getting the stamp and attaching a stock isn’t a problem. The Rattler won the PDW contest with SOCOM, and it’s won the PDW contest in my heart. As far as SBRs go, this takes you in the modern, high-tech, PDW route.

Springfield Kuna

The Springfield Kuna is brand new, but is a prime candidate for the SBR treatment in my opinion. Namely because I love subguns as a whole, but also because the Kuna represents a great value and a gun that’s easy to turn into an SBR. The Kuna is a 9mm large-format pistol that uses a roller-delayed system. It’s affordable and retails for less than a thousand dollars.

The Kuna also has a 1913 rail for adding a stock, which makes it an easy SBR candidate. Add in how easy it is to suppress, and we have a perfect two-stamp gun without spending 400 dollars in just stamps. The Kuna series is extremely modern, has ambi controls, is optic and accessory ready, and the magazines are even affordable.

Rossi Brawler

With stamps being free, I don’t feel silly turning a 200ish dollar gun into an SBR. The Rossi Brawler series are great big pistols that chamber a mix of cartridges. I would personally SBR a Rossi Brawler in .300 Blackout and throw a can on it. These guns are compatible with the stocks from the Rossi Tuffy and LWC series.

The LWC folding stock on a Rossi Brawler with a 9-inch barrel and a folding stock would be an awesome little carbine for hunting. Finish it off with a suppressor and an optic, and you have a very light, efficient, and even affordable firearm. The Brawler is a blast, and with a free tax stamp, it doesn’t seem expensive to make a cheap gun into an SBR.

A Krink Wannabe

“Krink” typically refers to an AKS-74U, which would be a 5.45 platform with an 8.1-inch barrel and a big flash hider. For the sake of this article, I’m using the term Krink to describe any uber-short AK SBRs. The lack of a stamp would make it much more tempting to get a PSA Krink and strap a stock on, but you could also grab a Draco or PAP pistol and slap a stock on and call it a Krink.

With that in mind, you might have to do some gunsmithing work to make it stock compatible. Dracos use an underfolder trunnion, but other variants might need some drilling, welding, and machine work. This makes it a bit more tempting to find an AK pistol with a 1913 rail and call it a day. What’s great about the Krink-style platforms is that 7.62×39 and 5.45 do pretty well from short barrels.

Plus, the fireball is part of the fun!

An Mk 18

I’m almost positive Palmetto State Armory introduced their new Mk 18 style large format pistol because tax stamps are going to zero dollars. The Mk 18 has long been a bit of a standard-bearer for SBR enthusiasts, but admittedly has lost a little sheen as modern systems like the URGI took over. Still, when it comes to short ARs, the Mk 18 is the most proven and arguably one of the best compromises when it comes to size and performance.

An Mk 18 features a 10.3-inch barrel, a quad rail, and a fixed front sight base, and standard AR-type controls with a carbine stock and a flat-top upper. It’s not exactly a fancy rifle, but it’s workable and a great throwback to the GWOT era. The Mk 18 was the platform that helped put the final nail in the coffin for submachine guns. While it has some retro flair, it’s still a competent and capable platform.

Plus, SBRing an AR lower makes it easy to have SBRs in tons of different calibers and configurations.

SBRs: Short Is Better

I like my rifles like I like my chow lines, short. Short rifles are sweet rifles and can be excellent tools for home defense, for USPSA PCC, 3-Gun, and more. SBRs will be a hot commodity, and if you’re wondering what deserves your stamp, I hope I’ve provided you with a little inspiration.

5.11’s ingenious HexGrid storage system goes along for the ride

By

Michael D'Angona

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August 26, 2025

For many people, their vehicle is their home away from home. They use it for daily commutes to and from work and for traveling for fun. Additionally, if things go bad, it’s an escape tool that gets them out of danger and to a safer location. With all the time people spend inside the vehicle, it’s a fair bet that it carries many of their personal items. That’s where 5.11’s ingenious Vehicle-Ready HexGrid organizational system comes into play.

5.11 Tactical HexGrid Storage System

Starting with the basics
Holding onto your seat
Ease of Installation
Adding multiple carriers
A Place for Everything
Adaptable for your personal needs
Final Thoughts

This attachment system, with accompanying bags and pouches (sold separately), can turn your spare seating into gear-toting helpers that keep necessities within arm’s reach. With my own sample of the HexGrid in my possession, I tested its practicality, durability, and ease of assembly, and the results were nothing less than remarkable.

Starting with the basics

You can’t build a house without a foundation, and you can’t create an organizational system without the fundamental base units. In this case, I had both the 5.11 HexGrid Seat and 5.11 HexGrid Headrest in-hand and ready to install. Both these units came with all the needed straps to secure them to your vehicle’s seat and headrest, respectively.

Examining them first, I noticed their flexibility and, with that, had concerns about their durability or ability to hold numerous gear attachments. However, with some tugging and flexing of the material, my mind changed quickly. It exhibited a true toughness under my constant pressure, even though its meshwork was surprisingly thin throughout.

The headrest unit exhibits the same materials. There was no question in my mind that it would be equally tough.

Holding onto your seat

Both the seat and headrest gridwork included the needed straps to hold them in place on your vehicle’s seat. The headrest portion had two attachment straps. The larger seat portion came with one top strap already attached and two side straps. These needed to be strung through the unit and secured. This unit also came with a quick-release seat wedge that was also pre-attached with two equal-length straps.

Now for the installation.

Ease of Installation

The installation of both units was far easier than I would have suspected. The headrest unit fit over my vehicle’s headrest on the first try. After a quick tug here and there on the straps to adjust, it “locked” in place very well.

You have an option to install the HexGrid on either the front or back of the seat. I chose to attach it to the back. I moved my way downward, securing the top first, then the sides, and finally the lower portion. Every strap is fully adjustable. It took some tweaking to apply the perfect amount of tension to secure the entire meshwork carrier.

Overall, it was a fifteen-minute installation and no problem whatsoever.

Adding multiple carriers

Various pouches and small packs do not come with the Hexgrid system. But the good people at 5.11 Tactical sent me some of their pouches to attach to the units.

I used their Flex Vertical GP Pouch, UCR IFAK Pouch, Flex Admin Pouch, a flashlight holder, and tourniquet containment pouch. The HexGrid system’s gridwork is in a hexagonal pattern, which is visually obvious right from the start. This allows not only horizontal attachments but also diagonal attachments to allow for greater versatility and space optimization.

I set a pattern that I initially liked, but changed it a few more times soon thereafter to get the best balance between space and accessibility to the gear.

A Place for Everything

Truly, the only limitation you have when storing gear on the HexGrid is the size of the pouches that you attach to the units. With my various pouches, I was able to accommodate numerous small survival and self-defense items.

In lieu of a tourniquet, I place my expandable baton in that pouch. I also added in the other pouches a mini first-aid kit, my eyeglasses, a slender flashlight, and a folding knife. Mind you, I was testing for a review and would most likely change gear and equipment on a regular basis.

Adaptable for your personal needs

What I realized when testing the HexGrid was the versatility it will have depending upon my needs at a given time. If I take a road trip, auto-travel-centric items could be added. Essentials could be substituted inside the pouches for camping trips. Even if I don’t have any deep outdoor adventures planned, everyday items like a pen and paper, paper towels, a little extra cash or coins, and even a window breaker escape tool would be great additions.

Final Thoughts

The HexGrid is both an ingenious storage system and highly customizable. The fact that you can add your preferred pouches and packs and remove them just as easily is an absolute plus. The one drawback that may deter some people is that you must purchase the add-on pouches, and that may become a bit costly at first.

However, this isn’t a dealbreaker by any means, as you can acquire them over time, so you don’t break the bank. In fact, you may surprise yourself and find several pouches already in your possession that are compatible. Finally, the HexGrid utilizes space that few people realize they have in their vehicles. This is where the HexGrid shines, and this is how you take prepping for any unexpected problem to a whole new level.

Best Suppressors – Free Stamps Part 1

By

Travis Pike

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August 26, 2025

I’m not Pew Science, I can’t tell you which suppressor is scientifically the quietest. My perspective comes from the experience behind the gun and how friendly suppressors are to the shooter, as well as how useful they can be over various platforms. Since the price of tax stamps is dropping to $0, I figured this was a good time to introduce a new series of articles we are doing on some of the better NFA items on the market that you can make or buy.

Let’s start with keeping it quiet by going with suppressors.

Go Quiet with These Suppressors

Velos 556K
SilencerCo Hybrid 46M
OCL Polonium-30
Rugged Obsidian 45
GSL Pill Box
Suppressors: Silence Is Brass Colored

Velos 556K

The Velos 556K from SilencerCo is their 3D-printed, flow-through suppressor. Flow-through suppressors promise to reduce or even eliminate gas blowback when shooting suppressed. I’m a bit of a sissy when it comes to gas blowback. I don’t understand how people deal with the eye-watering and choking I get from shooting suppressed.

The Velos 556K eliminates that issue. You don’t need an adjustable gas block, a special charging handle, or any other upgrades. I can toss this on an over-gassed budget carbine and not get hot gas in my face with every shot fired. The Velos 556K is also a little shorter than the OG Velos, and this makes it a bit more carbine-friendly.

I can’t measure sound reduction, but I can tell you that the 556K certainly takes the sting out of a 5.56 cartridge. It makes shooting much more comfortable and reduces volume significantly. SilencerCo uses a muzzle flash-reducing endcap, which does help mitigate the primary downside to flow-through cans. The Velos isn’t cheap, but I view cans as a buy once, cry once deal.

SilencerCo Hybrid 46M

Speaking of “buy once, cry once,” if you wanted only one can ever, I’d go with the SilencerCo Hybrid 46M. This is a .46 caliber suppressor, so it can suppress everything from .22LR to .45-70, and even powerful magnum calibers. Admittedly, smaller calibers won’t suppress as well, but the ring and sting of common calibers like 9mm, 5.56, .300 Blackout, and more.

The suppressor is just as useful on a .44 Magnum, a .338 Lapua Magnum, or really any magnum cartridge you want to suppress. The M in 46M stands for modular, and you can reduce the length at the cost of some of the suppression capability. The Hybrid 46M can suppress practically any common cartridge and a lot of uncommon ones.

OCL Polonium-30

If you just want to suppress rifles because you believe suppressors on handguns are basically a meme, then you likely want a .30 Cal can. The Otter Creek Labs Polonium-30 has been an impressive can at a great price point. At around $500-ish, the OCL-30 can suppress everything from 5.56 to .300 Norma Magnum.

The Polonium-30 uses the HUB mounting system that makes it easy to mount in a variety of ways. The OCL can is made from stainless steel and is full-auto rated. At 13.5 ounces, it’s not exactly lightweight, but for the price and the durability, the Polonium-30 is tough to beat for a dedicated rifle shooter.

Rugged Obsidian 45

If you don’t think suppressing pistols is a meme, then the Rugged Obsidian 45 is tough to beat. This .45 caliber suppressor (also available in 9mm) allows you to suppress a wide variety of calibers. Besides being able to suppress most common pistol calibers, you can suppress various rifle calibers as long as you stick to the recommended barrel lengths.

The Rugged Obsidian 45 claims to be the quietest .45 caliber suppressor, and it’s certainly long enough to be at 8.6 inches long. Luckily, it is modular, and you can reduce the overall length to 6.7 inches. It will turn POWs into pews and deliver a tough-to-beat experience for the pistol connoisseur, and it’s even compatible with most pistol-caliber lever guns.

GSL Pill Box

There are lots and lots of great .22LR cans out there. Some are as cheap as $99, some are modular from SilencerCo, and others, like the OCL Titanium, are both light and affordable. The GSL Pill Box is not the best .22LR suppressor, but I’m adding it because it’s the first can I’m going to buy when stamps are free. I couldn’t justify paying $200 for a tax when the can only cost $200.

The GSL Pill Box is a micro-sized suppressor; in fact, it’s the smallest suppressor available for the .22LR. This micro-sized suppressor is only 1.44 inches long overall, and it weighs less than an ounce. It’s a wipe-based suppressor, so the wipe has to be replaced every 50 rounds. GSL straight up says it’s not a suppressor designed for extended shooting purposes.

Ultimately, it’s a novelty, but it’s just so cool. It can fit on a keychain and will be a great can for my Beretta 20X Bobcat. It’s just cool, and sometimes things can just be cool.

Suppressors: Silence Is Brass Colored

Suppressors are going to be a hot commodity when the stamp price is $0. In most cases, the tax stamp was a significant part of the purchase price. Even if you spend a grand on a suppressor, the tax stamp adds 20% to the price of admission. With this speed bump gone, I imagine suppressor sales will skyrocket!

Stealth Camping Hacks

By

Reuben Bolieu

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August 25, 2025

GAT_Stealth_Camp_Hacks (1) — Here is a stealth camp the author made using a tarp and some natural materials.

There are many ways to stealth camp. However, most people associate it with escape and evasion techniques such as military training and camouflage, aiming to remain hidden from view. The reality is that only a small percentage of stealth camping hacks involve these tactics.

The Stealth Camp

Conventional vs. Stealth
Stealth Camping Hacks 101
Pitch It Low Hacks
Colors for Stealth Camping

The type of stealth camping that the majority of people practice focuses on creating a smaller, less intrusive presence. This is especially true in other campers’ minds. Color choices and gear selection are essential in this context.

These tips are useful for long trips in small camping areas, especially with large groups. They help minimize your impact on fellow campers and the environment.

Conventional vs. Stealth

Conventional camping involves setting up tents in designated campgrounds. These campgrounds often have amenities like restrooms and fire pits. Campers gather to socialize and participate in organized activities.

In contrast, stealth camping is more adventurous. It requires individuals to find discreet locations for pitching shelters. These locations are often away from prying eyes.

Here is an example of the author using an A-frame tarp up against a tree for the ultimate coverage.

Stealth camping emphasizes low impact, often in urban or remote areas. Campers can experience nature privately while embracing freedom. This method encourages spontaneity and a sense of adventure.

Unlike conventional camping, stealth camping needs only essential gear. It allows for easier setup and teardown without disturbing others.

Stealth Camping Hacks 101

Tarps are the best way to stay hidden and keep your footprints small when stealth camping. However, I may be biased because I haven’t used a tent in so many years that I’ve forgotten. I have been a tarp advocate for 25 years with no sign of looking back. One of the best stealth camp hacks is to set up your tarp close to a wide tree trunk. This works particularly well when you use an A-frame setup.

The author prefers a subdued color when camping in the desert and stays close to a rock.

In the desert, you can rig a tarp near a rock to blend in effectively. This setup provides enough room for gear if the weather turns bad. Getting up close and personal with rocks in the desert is much harder with the tent, even if it’s small. However, gear is constantly changing!

Pitch It Low Hacks

To be truly stealthy when pitching any type of shelter, keep it low to the ground, around waist height—just enough for you to slide in. The average person tends to look around at eye level and rarely looks up or down, especially if they are unfamiliar with the forest or camping. This approach is an effective way to stay hidden in plain sight.

During a long backpacking trip, the author used a small poncho tarp to minimize his environmental impact.

If you have a ridgeline and are using two trees, make sure they are positioned low. An alternative option is to use a long, smooth wooden pole. Tie one end of the pole at waist height to a tree. Allow the other end to gradually rest on the ground, forming a 45-degree angle. From here, you can drape your tarp over the pole.

This setup will likely give you enough room to tuck the edges of the tarp inside. This shelter is smaller and more compact, helping you stay warmer during colder months. More importantly, it remains out of regular view.

Colors for Stealth Camping

Choosing the right colors for your gear is essential for blending in with diverse environments like forests and deserts. This is especially important for casual stealth camping to ensure you remain unobtrusive.

In forests, earthy tones like deep greens, browns, and muted grays are most effective. These colors mimic natural hues, keeping you inconspicuous among the trees. For desert settings, opt for sand and beige shades, alongside light browns that can reflect the color palette of the terrain. Subtle patterns, such as camouflage or nature-inspired designs, can enhance your ability to blend in. They also add functionality to your gear.

By selecting these colors, you can enjoy a more discreet camping experience, minimizing your impact on both wildlife and the natural landscape. However, always have some type of gear with bright coloring for emergency signaling.

The author opts for a chill color while camping in the desert, staying close to a rock—because even nature loves a little shade!

These are just a few exciting tips for stealth camping! I’m inspired to write a follow-up article on using natural materials. Can’t wait to share more! Stay tuned!

Otis Earshield Hearing Pro

By

Tim Stetzer

-

August 25, 2025

While most of you are probably familiar with Otis Technology because of their excellent gun cleaning products, you may not know they make some great hearing protection as well. I’ve been working with a set of their electronic Earshield Ranger earmuffs and Earshield Scout headset over the summer. Let’s take a look at how they performed.

Earshield Ranger Electronic Pro Earmuff

Earshield Rangers on the Range
Full Protection
EarShield™ Scout
Earshield Scout Passive Protection
Two Great Options

I had a set of electronic earmuffs years ago, and wasn’t a fan. The battery life wasn’t great, and it was a pain to change batteries. You had to pull the foam out of the inside to get to the battery compartment. I traded them off at some point and had kind of given up on the idea. Until SHOT Show this year, that is. I got to talk to the folks at Otis about their EarShield Ranger Electronic Pro Earmuffs and decided to give the concept a second chance.

The Earshield Rangers are low-profile muffs, and they fold up to fit in your range bag. They have a wide, soft, adjustable headband and gel ear cups. You can even get a good seal with glasses on. The ear cups are easily replaceable as well, with a snap-in design.

The Ranger offers 23dB noise reduction while also offering amplified hearing. The headset has 5x noise amplification, so you’ll have no problems hearing range commands or regular conversation. Essentially, it enhances your hearing at normal noise levels and cuts off when it passes 82dB. It cuts off in an ultra-fast 0.5 milliseconds.

The control dial is on the outside of the left muff. It has an LED power indicator so you know if the muff is turned on. It also has a 4 hour auto shut-off to conserve battery life. Both of those are welcome features compared to my old muffs. Further, battery change is simple with an easy-to-access compartment on the outside of the muff. It only uses two AAA batteries as well. I think my old headset used 4 AA’s if I recall correctly.

There’s also an auxiliary port on the headset. A jack and cord are included as well, so you can easily connect to your phone if you want. Otis also makes a Bluetooth version of the Ranger as well, if that’s your thing. MSRP on the Earshield Ranger is $73.49. Which I think is pretty competitive for hearing protection with these features.

Earshield Rangers on the Range

Despite a brutal summer of torrential rain, high temps, and humidity, I still got a fair bit of shooting in this summer. I shot a good amount of pistol, some shotgun, and various long guns. The Earshield Rangers were comfortable even during multi-hour range sessions. Battery life was very good as well. Which I was pleased with since that was a big gripe on my old set of muffs. I swapped batteries once over the summer, but I used the headset a lot.

The amplified hearing works great. I have pretty bad tinnitus from years of shooting and working on the flightline in the Air Force. Probably from loud music when I was young and dumber, too. Sometimes hearing with conventional plugs or ear pro is rough. The amplification of the Ranger works very well, though. It was generally clear and distortion-free.

I did notice some interference with my buddy’s phone one day. Every time he pulled it out and would be texting, I would get some interference. It didn’t make the headset unusable by any means, but it was noticeable.

I was easily able to hear normal conversation, but the system always kicked in when we were shooting. The 0.5 millisecond delay may as well not exist as far as I could tell. I could never detect an obvious transition between being able to hear and the sound reduction kicking in when needed. It’s pretty seamless.

Full Protection

The Earshields worked well with everything I shot. I had some full-power .357s out of a 4-inch barrel that were real boomers, but no issues. The same for a number of short-barreled rifles, shotguns, and .30-06’s. I thought they did a great job of protecting what hearing I have left.

They’re a pretty low-profile muff, too. I had good luck having them stay in place, even when getting a good cheek weld on various rifles and shotguns. Better than some muffs I’ve used, which get knocked loose with long guns. If full muffs do bother you for long gun shooting, though, read on. The Earshield Scout might be what you need.

EarShield™ Scout

I’ve actually used a set of Otis’s EarShield Scout headsets for years. I got a set of the 26dB ones for a review in a now-defunct print gun mag ages ago, and it’s been part of my range kit ever since. These are honestly one of the best bangs for the buck in hearing protection I’ve ever used.

Although my old ones still work fine, I picked up one of the newer 31dB sets to try out. I figure a little extra hearing protection at my age can’t hurt.

The Earshield Scout uses what Otis calls Sound Reduction Chamber Technology. Rather than a battery-operated system, it uses a series of chambers integrated into the side pieces of the headset. These chambers allow you to hear normal conversation, such as range commands, but still cut off high-decibel noise. Honestly, I don’t understand how it works. Science I guess. Or magic. I’ll take it, whichever one it is.

The Scout is extremely lightweight and comfortable to wear. It’s low profile too, and works well when shooting long guns. It doesn’t interfere with your cheek weld like full muffs sometimes can. Otis mentions that they’re cool to wear, too, and that’s true.

This summer has been brutal, and some of the days I was shooting, the Ranger muffs got pretty hot to wear. The Scout doesn’t fully cover the ear, so you have a lot more airflow. The Earshield Scout folds up and won’t take up much space in your range bag either.

Earshield Scout Passive Protection

Although the Scout doesn’t amplify your hearing like the electronic Ranger muffs, it still works extremely well. You can hear what’s going on around you, but it cuts off the dangerous, higher-decibel noise.

The best part of the Scout is the price, though. The 26dB model has an MSRP of just $23.59. The 31dB model is slightly more at $29.49. That’s a bargain for how well the Scout works. At that price, you can afford to buy a couple of sets and leave them in your various gun cases or range bags so that you’re never without a good set of ear pro.

Two Great Options

Whether you want the amplified sound and full muff setup of the Earshield Ranger or the inexpensive, lightweight Earshield Scout, Otis has you covered. Both systems work extremely well and are reasonably priced for the features they offer.

Trump Administration Embraces Armed Citizens To Curb D.C.’s Violent Crime

By

Mark Chesnut

-

August 24, 2025

By now, everyone is aware of President Donald Trump’s crime crackdown in our nation’s capital. While somewhat controversial, the president has brought in federal troops to bolster law enforcement presence and make the streets safe again in Washington, D.C.

Second Amendment to Curb D.C. Violent Crime?

Trumps’ D.C. Effort
A Change For The Better

What most are likely unaware of, however, is the fact that part of the D.C. crime emphasis has involved the Trump Administration greatly reducing the amount of time it takes to be issued a gun permit or concealed carry permit in Washington.

Trumps’ D.C. Effort

In March, President Trump created the Making the District of Columbia Safe and Beautiful Task Force. The idea behind the task force was for it to implement policies aimed at “preventing crime, punishing criminals, preserving order, protecting our revered American monuments, and promoting beautification and the preservation of our history and heritage” in Washington, D.C.

According to a recent Fox News report, one of the successes of the task force so far has been to greatly reduce the time it takes to apply for and receive a permit to own a firearm in the city. Before the task force, applicants were forced to wait four months just for a firearms registration appointment. Additionally, the task force has also greatly reduced the wait time for permit processing.

“President Trump is not only stopping violent crime in Washington, D.C., he is also streamlining the permitting process for law-abiding residents who want the ability to protect themselves and their families,” White House spokeswoman Taylor Rogers told the network. “The Making DC Safe and Beautiful Task Force has been working with local officials to eliminate longstanding obstacles and successfully reduced the average permit processing time from several months to just five days.”

The timeline for applying for and receiving a concealed carry permit has also been greatly reduced. According to the task force, while it used to take several months to obtain a concealed carry permit, that process has also been cut down to four or five days.

Such progress is remarkable, as the city’s permitting process was previously stacked against those wanting to defend themselves with a permitting process that is extremely restrictive. Along with the onerous process to acquire a permit, lawful gun owners have to reapply for their license every two years.

A Change For The Better

The Trump Administration’s embracing lawful gun owners as a means to battle violent crime in D.C. is an abrupt about-face from the Biden years when anti-gun executive orders and ATF “Final Rules” were often the order of the day. It’s a refreshing thing to see administration officials trying to make armed self-defense easier. It signifies that the Trump Administration understands that the term “Guns Save Lives” isn’t just a slogan—it’s a reality.

You can look far and wide, but you’ll have a hard time finding a better example of the old saying, “Elections have consequences.”

Workplace Emergency Kits – Be Ready to Sit Things Out

By

Jim Cobb

-

August 23, 2025

Very few people want to spend even a minute longer at their workplace than is absolutely necessary. I totally understand that. However, there may be times when hanging out for a while is the wisest course of action. A workplace emergency kit makes sense.

Building a Workplace Emergency Kit

Why You Need a Workplace Emergency Kit
What Should Be in Your Workplace Emergency Kit
Where To Keep Your Workplace Emergency Kit

Why You Need a Workplace Emergency Kit

There are a few reasons why you might need to hunker down at work instead of heading for home.

When snow has been piling up for a while, you may want to wait until the plows have gotten out and about.

Workplace emergency kit -- snowstorm — If the roads are bad, you might want to hunker down and let the plows do their magic.

Maybe you work in an urban area and for some reason, there’s a major protest happening right outside your building. Rather than fight through the potentially violent crowd, you might decide to just hang tight until they disperse.

There may be a shelter-in-place order from the authorities due to a terror attack. In this case, you’re going to have to sit and wait for the all clear.

In each of these scenarios, running out to your vehicle to grab anything might be problematic at best. Thus, it’s not a bad idea to put together a workplace emergency kit that you can sock away, just in case.

What Should Be in Your Workplace Emergency Kit

The exact configuration of the kit should be tailored to the individual situation. Look at the following as suggestions rather than a set-in-stone checklist.

Flashlight – yes, many of us carry a pocket flashlight on the daily. But having a spare means you can let someone borrow it during a power outage. Want to be a hero? Be the one who makes it easy for people to find their way to and from the bathroom when the lights go out.

Workplace emergency kit - flashlight — The Streamlight Nano II is a great option for the workplace emergency kit.

Battery Pack – if you’re playing games or listening to podcasts you’ve been saving for a rainy day, it can chew up your phone’s battery.

Snacks – do you really want to take a chance with the Wheel of Death in the break room, assuming it’s even working? A better idea is to have some trail mix, granola bars, or similar snacks squirreled away, along with a couple of bottles of water or soft drinks. You might even pick up a case of bottled water to keep under your desk so you can share with co-workers.

Toiletries – being able to brush and floss your teeth, and maybe wash up a bit, could be nice.

Workplace emergency kit - toothbrush — You might appreciate having a toothbrush in your kit.

Clothing – depending on your work dress code, having a soft hoodie or something else comfortable to change into while you’re sitting around for hours on end might be appreciated. Thick socks are another good addition to the workplace emergency kit.

Medications – if you have any prescriptions you take regularly, keep a stash at work. This could be vital in a bad situation where you run out and you can’t easily get a refill.

Boredom Relievers – a deck of cards can be used by yourself or as a group, depending on whether you like your co-workers or not. A novel or magazine to read, or a book of puzzles could help pass the time as well.

Workplace emergency kit - cards — While HR will likely frown on gambling, you can still have fun playing cards until you’re able to leave.

Where To Keep Your Workplace Emergency Kit

This isn’t the type of kit that really needs to be stored all together in one spot. It’s a kit only in the sense that you’ve assembled the items for a specific reason. That said, a canvas shopping bag works as well as a backpack, but might be a little more low-key.

Keep the supplies somewhere accessible, such as your cubicle or locker. Remember that the idea here is to have these items available to you without you having to leave your workplace.

Behind The Drip – Tactical Tales Of Iconic Photos

By

Travis Pike

-

August 23, 2025

Half of the battle is looking cool. The other half is violence. Sometimes we get the perfect combination, and sometimes that combination gets captured on film. Today, we are going to dissect five iconic photos that are dripping, with, uh, drip. They mix style and the potential for violence with ease. We are going to dive behind the scenes of these iconic photos and tell their tactical tales.

Tactical Drip: Behind the Scenes

Uzis, 870s, and Convertibles
Rick Moranis in Desert Storm
Obi-Wan Nairobi
Even Ladies Have Drip
The Men in Blue Jeans
More Than Drip

Uzis, 870s, and Convertibles

It’s tough to beat the drip of five dudes riding on the side of a convertible with the top down. They’re dressed impressively in blazers and boat shoes, with khakis and collared shirts topping it off. The boys look like they’re ready to indulge in some yacht rock while shooting their mix of Remington 870s and Uzis into garbage.

These men are dressed to kill and well-armed because they are Secret Service agents charged with protecting President Reagan. It’s 1983, and President Reagan is playing a round of golf with Secretary of State George Shultz in Augusta, Georgia. The game was interrupted when a man named Charlie Harris drove his truck through a gate, wielding a .38 Special.

Charlie Harris took hostages in the Pro Shop and demanded to see Reagan. The Secret Service response was immediate, and they stormed the course, securing the President and bringing enough firepower to fight off a squad of communists.

The Uzi had become the Secret Service’s submachine gun of choice and would be famously wielded by a Secret Service agent when John Hinckley Jr. tried to impress Jodie Foster. We can also see the profile of a Remington 870 fit with the law enforcement top-folding stock. The incident was resolved with no one harmed, and Charlie did five years in the can.

President Reagan did attempt to talk to Charlie in one of the first few cell phone calls ever, but the signal was bad, so the Gipper and Charlie never got to converse.

Rick Moranis in Desert Storm

If you look at the modern special operations vet, you see a big beard, tattoos, and testosterone-fueled muscles. Believe it or not, they didn’t always look that way. Sometimes the world’s most elite commandos look like they coach kids’ soccer. If you saw a dude in khakis with a button-down white shirt and big glasses in Desert Storm, he’d stand out; you might take him for an IT nerd. Sometimes the drip can be simple.

That’s not the case here. We have Delta Force alumnus Bill Cronin acting as the personal security detail for General “Stormin’ Norman” Schwarzkopf in Desert Storm. Mr. Cronin is often confused with fellow Rick Moranis impersonator and total badass Miles Vinning, but it turns out that looking like a normal dude can be beneficial. No one sees the guy who looks like he drives his kids to school in a minivan as a threat.

As soon as that Colt 723 with the equipped Redi-Mag device comes out, that impression soon changes. Delta Force is America’s premier special mission unit and is home to America’s most elite warriors. Bill Cronin spent a career in the Army and Special Operations, including 15 years with Delta Force. General Schwarzkopf was certainly in good hands with Mr. Cronin.

Obi-Wan Nairobi

I don’t give the Europeans credit for much, but they do get the drip. It’s always European police and military forces that find a way to blend tactical gear with street clothes and make it look so damn cool. That’s the case for our next photo.

In 2019, the tactical community was exposed to the drip of an unknown commando storming a mall in Nairobi, seemingly by himself, to help thwart a terroristic attack. The photo showed a guy wearing a balaclava, tight blue jeans, a multicam plate carrier, and armed with a very modern rifle. The man became known as Obi-Wan Nairobi, and all we knew was that he was in the SAS.

We know now he was working with local security forces and helping eliminate terrorists as well as evacuate civilians. He seemingly came out of nowhere and responded after hearing explosions and gunfire. He wasn’t alone and was paired with Dan J. Prastalo, a Slovenian member of the Diplomatic Protective Services Tactical Response Unit.

Obi-Wan Nairobi killed two terrorists and was awarded the Conspicuous Gallantry Cross. Years later, the real man came forward as Christian Craighead. He became famous enough that Call of Duty even made an operator named Otter based on Obi-Wan Nairobi.

Even Ladies Have Drip

There is something so cool about fending off the occupiers of your country while wearing a leather jacket and polka-dot skirt. It’s even better when you add an AR-18 and an almost proper use of cover. For a woman who looked like she was going shopping, you can’t beat her stance, her tactics, or her style.

This famed photo shows a woman firing an AR-18 around a corner. She’s an IRA fighter reportedly engaging British forces with an AR-18 assault rifle. The AR-18, referred to as the Armalite by Irish forces, was a popular rifle with the IRA. They were strapped for arms, so anything was better than nothing, but the AR-18 is a solid rifle. However, it looks a little long in that young lady’s arms.

The photographer, Colman Doyle, claimed he took the photo after she had fired the rifle. The same woman, in the same outfit, was photographed in a piece of IRA propaganda. This has led to some suspicion that the photo is staged. Maybe the young lady only had one stylish outfit?

Women were also rare in the IRA. The IRA wasn’t exactly a progressive force willing to accept women in its ranks. Whether the photo is staged or not isn’t clear, but the drip is still there. Sadly, as far as I can tell, the lady has never come forward to claim her fame.

The Men in Blue Jeans

The Europeans might combine tactical doo-dads and civilian clothing more often, but that doesn’t mean America hasn’t done it a time or two. In fact, we did it so well and so hard that our enemies turned it into a nickname. “The Men in Blue Jeans” was a nickname gifted to Navy SEALs in Vietnam for both their combat prowess and their unbeatable American style.

The jeans aren’t the only thing that stands out in this photo of three chads with too much drip. Let’s not forget the always awesome Stoner 63 light machine guns. Oh, and the camouflage is perfectly accentuated by the cross belts of 5.56 ammo. The guy in the middle gets a perfect 10, with his comrades getting a solid 9; they just lack the jeans.

The SEALs weren’t wearing jeans for style, but for function. They chose Levi’s 501s and 505s. Levis were chosen for several different reasons. They were tougher than the issued pants and protected the wearer from leeches and other pests. Jeans dried faster than the issued cammies and were quieter when worn in the jungle.

The Levi’s made it easy to pick out a SEAL, but so did the Rolexes, the long hair, and the Stoner 63. I guess it wasn’t just good jeans.

More Than Drip

Looking cool matters. Right? It has to at least a little bit. That’s why the Winged Hussars looked so cool. Maybe it doesn’t, unless you want to be remembered. If that’s the case, you’ve got to match your drip to your skill level, and you might be the next tactical icon.

Getting the Team Together – Talking to Family About Prepping

By

Jim Cobb

-

August 22, 2025

Prepping is not a spectator sport. It requires a lot of work and effort. And it can be even harder when it feels like your family isn’t supportive. “How do I get my family on board with prepping?” is a common concern.

Let’s look at some reasons why family members might be reluctant to jump on the bandwagon.

Family Prepping

Financial
Hoarding
Passionate

Financial

There is no stress in a relationship like financial stress. It can be all-consuming and infect every other aspect of the household. The thing is, prepping costs money; there’s no way around that. But if the family is already struggling to keep their heads above water financially, sinking money into things that don’t have an immediate benefit might be seen as wasteful.

One approach to try in this situation is that, over time, you’ll actually save money. You’re able to feed the family tomorrow at today’s prices. Let’s be realistic, the cost of just about everything continues to increase. If you shop intelligently and make use of sales as well as coupons when they make sense, you can stock up on food and other necessities to help combat future price increases.

Family prepping - saving money — By shopping smart, as well as learning how to cook from scratch, you’ll save money over time.

Hoarding

To the uninitiated, there can seem to be a fine line between prepping and hoarding. One of the differences between the two is organization. Nobody wants to live in a home where every single surface is piled high with boxes, and you have to turn sideways to make it down hallways. Not only is it stressful, it’s a safety hazard.

Keeping your preps organized and under control is beneficial to everyone in the family. Not only does it help keep the home tidy, it allows you to find what you need when you need it. A power outage is the wrong time to have to hunt through 87 different totes and boxes to find the flashlights you know you bought last month.

Passionate

Many preppers are very passionate about it. There’s nothing wrong with that, but if it is shoehorned into virtually every conversation, that gets old fast for the other family members. It is possible to be too passionate, to the point that they tune you out.

Closely related to this is being focused only on end-of-the-world sorts of disasters. For example, if you constantly talk about the threat of the Yellowstone caldera blowing, after a while, it just becomes a Chicken Little situation. I’m not discounting your beliefs, just suggesting that dialing it back a notch or three may benefit your relationship with your family.

Instead of focusing on apocalyptic scenarios, talk about more mundane, and far more common, threats like job loss or severe weather.

Family prepping - job loss — Job loss is one of the most common personal disasters people will encounter, and prepping ahead of time can alleviate some of that stress.

For example, let’s say the primary breadwinner in your family lost their job due to cutbacks. It isn’t the end of the world, but it can for damn sure feel like it. If you don’t have much in the way of savings, things are going to be pretty tight until that paycheck can be replaced. But if you’ve stocked up on food and other supplies, that will help ease the strain on your pocketbook.

The most important thing is to keep the lines of communication as open as possible. Actually listen to your family’s concerns and do what you can to alleviate them.

Warthog V-Sharp A4

By

Reuben Bolieu

-

August 22, 2025

GAT_Warthog_sharp (1) — (Warhog Photo) Hold the knife securely and slice down along the ready-set angles. Easy as that with the Warthog A4 Elite!

A new breed of knife and tool sharpeners is here—the Warthog V-Sharp A4 ELITE. Quite possibly the easiest way to keep it keen in the kitchen or outdoors!

The Warthog V-Sharp A4 Story

V-Sharp A4 ELITE
Simple to Set Up V-Sharp A4 ELITE
How-To Use Your Warthog
Key Features:
Warthog In My Kitchen

Warthog Blade Sharpeners launched in 1999 with a bold goal: to give everyday users the power to sharpen knives like seasoned craftsmen. Drawing on expert knowledge, the team rejected clunky clamp systems and instead engineered a patented V-Sharp design that delivers professional results with speed and simplicity.

In 2000, they introduced the original V-Sharp Classic™, which quickly gained traction for its accuracy and ease of use. As demand surged—especially in the U.S.—Warthog expanded its lineup with the compact, corrosion-resistant Xtreme Edge™, tailored for both outdoor and home use.

By 2010, they refined the Classic into the Classic II™, adding a heavy-duty metal frame and quick-change hones for even greater versatility. In 2022, Warthog pushed the envelope again with the V-Sharp A4, offering four sharpening angles and sleek color options that made it a kitchen favorite.

Operating from a modern factory in George, South Africa, Warthog continues to manufacture high-quality diamond sharpeners and ships daily across North America through Warthog USA. With thousands of retail partners and a reputation for precision, Warthog sharpeners have earned a place in kitchens, campsites, and toolkits around the world.

V-Sharp A4 ELITE

The Warthog Elite A4 Sharpener transforms knife maintenance, keeping your blades razor-sharp with minimal effort. Utilizing a patented V-Sharp system, this sharpener features two spring-loaded diamond hones that sharpen both sides of the blade at the same time—eliminating the struggle of maintaining the perfect angle!

The Warthog A4 Elite V knife sharpener features a solid wooden base and two screws to make the experience a little more solid and looking high-class!

Its sturdy wooden base provides stability while you sharpen, and the durable metal frame construction ensures it lasts. You can easily adjust the sharpening angle to 15, 20, 25, or 30 degrees, making it suitable for everything from delicate sushi knives to robust outdoor blades. The included 325-grit diamond honing stones handle the heavy lifting, while the built-in finishing steels refine the edge to perfection.

For those seeking even more control, you can replace the honing stones with aftermarket options ranging from 270 to 1000 grit, or use ceramic honing stones for serrated blades.

MSRP: $144.99

Simple to Set Up V-Sharp A4 ELITE

Setting up the Warthog V-Sharp A4 ELITE is refreshingly simple. Right out of the box, it’s ready to work. No calibration, no clamping, no guesswork. Just place it on a stable surface, select your preferred sharpening angle (15°, 20°, 25°, or 30°), and insert the diamond hones into the spring-loaded arms. The base holds firm while the arms glide smoothly, ensuring consistent contact with both sides of the blade.

Whether you’re sharpening a chef’s knife or a field blade, the A4 ELITE adapts quickly and delivers a precise edge without the learning curve.

How-To Use Your Warthog

To use it, hold your knife vertically and draw it through the V-shaped hones in a smooth, downward motion. The dual-sided hones sharpen both sides of the blade simultaneously, maintaining symmetry and saving time. Start with the diamond side to grind the edge, then flip the rods to the steel side for honing. Repeat the motion 5–10 times, depending on the blade’s condition. Then you’ll feel the edge bite back with renewed sharpness.

Changing the rods is just as intuitive. Press the spring-loaded arms inward to release tension, slide the rods out, and insert your desired grit or finish. The quick-change system lets you swap between coarse, medium, or fine hones in seconds. This makes it easy to tailor the sharpening process to your blade’s needs.

With the A4 ELITE, Warthog has stripped sharpening down to its essentials. Precision, speed, and ease—all wrapped in a tool that feels as good to use as the edge it leaves behind.

The A4 knife sharpener is user-friendly, quick, and precise.

Key Features:

Four Sharpening Angles	15°, 20°, 25°, and 30° — ideal for everything from delicate kitchen knives to rugged outdoor blades.
Dual-Sided Hones	Each hone features diamond on one side and steel on the other, allowing you to grind. Then refine the edge without swapping tools.
Simultaneous Sharpening	Sharpens both sides of the blade at once, maintaining symmetry and saving time.
Quick-Change System	Easily swap out hones to adjust grit or angle.
Elegant Base Options	Available with a wooden base for a premium look and stable performance.
MSRP	$144.99

Warthog In My Kitchen

The Warthog A4 Elite features 325-grit honing stones for a sharp edge, with 270 to 1000 and ceramic options.

I used the included 325-grit diamond honing stones on my two Chinese cleavers, and two Henckels chef knives. Then, I turned the rods around to the steel side and used it for maintenance.

The Warthog V-Sharp A4 ELITE stays in the kitchen, set to 15°, with the steel side ready to go. After each use, I rinse the blades, pat them dry, and then put them on the Warthog. I usually do about 15-20 quick passes and call it a day. I don’t think I’ll need to use the diamond hone with my method. However, it’s good to know they’re there for me when I need them!

Griffin Armament Releases the (MOD 4) Revolution 45 Suppressor

By

Tim Stetzer

-

August 21, 2025

Griffin Armament revamped its Revolution® line of suppressors. The first release is the The (MOD 4) Revolution 45 designed for .45 caliber subsonic rounds, including the .45-70. The MOD 4 is just the latest in Griffin’s line of Revolution suppressors. Read on to see what’s new.

The Griffin Armament (MOD 4) Revolution

The (MOD 4) Revolution 45
CARBON-GARD™
EZ-LOK ™ Piston
(MOD 4) Revolution 45 Features
Pricing and Availability

The (MOD 4) Revolution 45

Griffin Armament broke ground with their original Revolution 9 and 45 suppressors with the user-customizable modular length feature. The new (MOD 4) Revolution 45 suppressor builds on that history, but is a total redesign. Griffin focused on user feedback, and the MOD 4 is more secure and easier to mount. It’s also fast and easy to configure and to disassemble for maintenance.

All features are designed to make the end user experience more convenient and satisfying. It also has what they’re saying are vastly increased maintenance intervals, making the need for takedown and cleaning less frequent.

The forward extension cap on the MOD 4 allows toolless reconfiguration. You can easily switch between the full-length 8.81-inch setup and the short 6.56-inch variation. The O-ring biased extension and front cap prevent inadvertent loosening of the extension or cap during use as well.

The MOD 4’s booster housing is permanently installed, so when you tighten or loosen the suppressor, you don’t accidentally loosen the booster housing. Griffin’s booster housing accepts pistons, fixed barrel mounts and spacers, Griffin’s integrated three lug mount, or the Plan A mounts.

The Revolution MOD 4 Suppressors are rated for pistol and subsonic calibers of .458 or lesser diameter, including the .45-70 Government and .45ACP. They do not have any minimum barrel length restrictions. The MOD 4 Revolutions are also full-auto rated for 60 rounds prior to cooling. So if you want to mount one on your .45-70 Gatling gun, go for it. And take a video, please. That would be awesome.

CARBON-GARD™

Griffin has also incorporated another improvement to the MOD 4 generation. They’ve incorporated their patented CARBON-GARD baffle technology. This concept makes cleaning and maintenance of the suppressor easier, even after very high round counts. I’m going to quote them here on this part, so I don’t get anything wrong:

“High-temp silicon o-rings are positioned at each baffle interface as well as the end cap, blast chamber, and extension tubes to fully seal gases and carbon within the baffle stack. This gas seal prevents lead and carbon fouling from building up between the tube body and the baffle stack, eliminating instances of the baffle core being carbon locked inside of the tube body, a condition that is very annoying for the end user.“

EZ-LOK™ Piston

The Revolution MOD 4 Suppressors ship with an EZ-LOK piston. The EZ-LOK provides a more secure and rapid mounting system than direct thread. You will have to get EZ-LOK barrel end adapters separately in order to use the EZ-LOK system. Griffin highly recommends using the EZ-LOK system to “mitigate chances of baffle strikes or catastrophic failure due to the can inadvertently coming loose.”

I thought this next part was interesting. They say that the best practice is to check your pistol suppressor for tightness every 1-3, 15-round magazines due to the excessive vibration inherent to tilt-barrel handguns. If you are using an older direct thread mount, they say that the best practice is to check and tighten the suppressor every 2-3 rounds fired.

I’ll be honest, I’ve mostly used direct thread up until now and never knew I should be checking that frequently. Good to know. Regardless, they point out that the EZ-LOK gives you a 15-fold or greater enhancement in mounting security. That is a pretty huge difference. I may have to consider switching interfaces for my existing Griffin Ultra Light Sportsman HD .36 can. I use it on my 9mm pistols and SBRs as well as on a variety of rifles.

(MOD 4) Revolution 45 Features

17-4 H900 Heat Treated Stainless Steel Baffles
7075-T6 Aluminum tube body/end cap construction
Modular Length
Tool-less Disassembly
CARBON-GARD Sealed Baffle Tech
ECO-FLOW Backpressure-Reducing Baffle Tech
EZ-LOK Piston and Booster Assembly included
Perpetual Lifetime Warranty™

Pricing and Availability

The MOD 4 Revolution 45 suppressors are shipping now. They have an MSRP of $734.95, and you can either have them shipped directly to your home through their Silencers to Your Door program or have one sent to your local NFA dealer. I used the Silencers to Your Door program when I got my Ultra Light HD suppressor, and it was fast and painless. I had my suppressor in under 4 weeks, I believe it was, and I never had to leave the house to get it.

Griffin Armament suppressors are made in the USA and backed by their Perpetual Lifetime Warranty. I’ve actually been in the market for a .45 caliber suppressor to use on my .45 ACP pistols and carbine, as well as my .400 Legend AR. The MOD 4 Revolution 45 may just end up being my next suppressor purchase.

For Long Vacations or Short Hikes: Allhaula 30L Backpack and Waist Pack

By

Jim Cobb

-

August 21, 2025

The Allhaula line is a new focus for 5.11 Tactical. It’s a more subdued approach to packs and bags. Sort of a gray man look, one might say. They sent over a couple of their offerings for me to check out. Gotta say, I’m impressed.

Allhaula 30L Backpack

Allhaula 30L Size and Materials
How Big Is That?
Allhaula 30L Features
Backpack Performance
Allhaula Waist Pack
Waist Pack Size and Construction
2L Waist Pack Features
Allhaula Waist Pack Performance

I’ve lost count of how many backpacks I’ve owned through the years. Most of them were at least somewhat tactical in appearance if not actual function. They were loaded with exterior pockets, MOLLE attachment points, all that fun stuff.

There’s not much of that here with the Allhaula 30L. On the surface, it’s actually quite plain. And y’know what? It works.

Allhaula 30L Size and Materials

The Allhaula 30L Backpack measures 20 inches by 14 inches by 8 inches. This puts it solidly in the airline carry-on column. I didn’t have any big trips on the agenda during my review period for the Allhaula 30L, but rest assured, it’ll be with me the next time I board a plane.

The exterior is TPU-coated 840D nylon. This material consists of a thermoplastic polyurethane membrane that’s been bonded to nylon. The end result is a tough fabric material that’s both waterproof and flexible. My fear upon first seeing the pack was that it would feel cheap, like pleather. That’s not the case at all. It’s smooth to the touch, sure, but not in a flimsy way.

Allhaula 30L Backpack - waterproof — The Allhaula 30L exterior is very water-resistant. Photo credit: 5.11 Tactical.

One benefit of this TPU-coated nylon material is that it’s very lightweight. All told, the Allhaula 30L comes in at a bit more than two pounds. That’s fairly light for a 30L backpack, especially one with quality construction.

How Big Is That?

Now, as a practical matter, how big is a 30L pack? Meaning, how much stuff can you realistically carry in it? While it obviously depends on what you’re doing and where you’re going, your mission, for lack of a better term, think about it like this. If you aren’t the type to pack seven pairs of underwear for each day of your trip, you can fit enough clothes to last several days in this backpack. I’ve lived out of a 30L backpack for 4-5 days at a time, though it did require me to wear the same pants more than once. I recommend packing cubes.

Allhaula 30L Features

The Allhaula 30L Backpack is loaded with great details. Let’s start at the front and work our way to the back. Around the perimeter of the pack’s front, there are four small loops for attaching carabiners. They’re subdued, and if you aren’t specifically looking for them, you’ll probably miss seeing them.

Front and center, there’s a section of loop fabric that’s just waiting for your favorite patch. I don’t do much with patches, but don’t let that stop you from adorning this pack with whatever you’d like. Just behind this loop section is a fleece-lined zippered pocket that’s perfect for sunglasses or your phone.

Next is an admin section that runs the entire pack from top to bottom. It has the usual assortment of sleeves and a zippered pocket near the top. But again, you can reach all the way to the bottom of the pack. This is a great place to stuff a lightweight jacket you can pull out if the weather turns when you’re out and about.

The main section opens to about 75% clamshell. This is obviously where you’d pack the bulk of your clothes or gear.

At the rear of the pack is another compartment that houses a laptop sleeve as well as a separate sleeve for either a hydration pouch or a ballistic panel.

A vertical zipper along the right side hides a pocket for a water bottle. This keeps the bottle out of the way as you travel. It will hold up to a 32-ounce Nalgene bottle.

Allhaula 30L Backpack - water bottle pocket — The water bottle pocket is hidden behind a zipper.

Flipping the pack over, there is a luggage pass-through snuggled between the padding on the back. This is great for when you’re traveling and you want to secure it to your rolling carry-on. The shoulder straps are well-padded and feature a few MOLLE cutouts. A sternum strap helps keep the pack in place as you jog to your next gate at the airport. All of the straps are adjustable.

Allhaula 30L Backpack - luggage pass-through. — The carry-on handle pass-through is a great feature.

Backpack Performance

As I mentioned earlier, I didn’t have any flights or other big trips come up while I was evaluating the pack. That said, I loaded it up for several walks and generally played around with it a fair amount over the last few weeks.

I think the Allhaula 30L is a solid contender for anyone looking for a subdued, low-key pack for EDC or traveling. I love that it’s pretty discreet as far as packs go. It has a grab handle at the top and another on the side, making it easy to carry if you don’t have time to strap it on your back or if doing so would hinder your movement. I’m thinking specifically of those high-speed trams used at many airports, where they cram you in like sardines.

The Allhaula 30L is available in three colors – Volcanic (shown), Ensign Blue, and Sage Green.

MSRP: $165

Allhaula Waist Pack

I’m old enough to remember the first time fanny packs were all the rage. Get a couple of drinks into me and I might even confess to having owned and used one or another of them back in the day. Looking back, they were kind of silly, but they served a purpose.

I tell you that to tell you this. The Allhaula Waist Pack isn’t like the fanny packs you might remember. For starters, you don’t need to wear it around your waist. But that’s getting ahead of ourselves.

Waist Pack Size and Construction

This is a 2L pack. It measures about 9 inches by 6 inches by 1 inch. The exterior is the same TPU-coated nylon as the backpack. The belt extends to 50 inches. The heavy-duty plastic buckle is on the side of the pack. The belt has a keeper loop to secure any slack. On each side of the belt, where it attaches to the pack, are MOLLE loops.

2L Waist Pack Features

As we did with the backpack, we’ll go front to back. There is a padded grab handle on the front of the pouch. Honestly, this kind of baffled me. I can’t imagine a situation where this would be truly handy to have. By the very nature of the pack, you’re not likely to be carrying anything heavy or bulky in it that would necessitate such a heavy-duty handle. But, it doesn’t detract from the bag’s use, so no harm, no foul, I suppose.

Just behind that grab handle is a zippered pocket. It’s just big enough for a cell phone, which is what I used it for.

The main compartment opens very wide. Inside, there are several sleeves and interior pockets. One of the hallmarks of 5.11 Tactical’s packs is their organization capabilities, and even this little waist pack doesn’t disappoint in that regard. There’s even a strap with a snap for your keys.

Allhaula Waist Pack - main compartment — As with most 5.11 Tactical bags and packs, there are plenty of organizational features.

At the back, there is one more zippered pocket that’s slightly larger than the one on the front. It’s a good size for a small map or a notebook and pencil to take notes as you travel.

Allhaula Waist Pack Performance

Here’s the thing. I’m not a big fan of waist packs. Just a personal preference. However, I’ve grown to like sling packs for short hikes and similar adventures. For about a year now, I’ve been using a Carry Commission Bum Bag for that purpose. My wife ended up snagging one of those from me, and she’s been using it for herself.

The Allhaula Waist Pack works in a very similar manner to a crossbody bag, and it’s outstanding. The 2L capacity, coupled with the admin-style organization, allows me to bring along everything I might need on a hike without feeling bogged down.

A typical load out for the waist pack includes a cell phone, spare battery pack, granola bar or other snack, lighter, bandana or other sweat rag, printed trail map, and a few other odds and ends. I love that the main compartment opens wide enough that I can easily see and find anything inside without taking the bag off.

My only real gripe about the Allhaula Waist Pack is with the grab handle. It just seems weird and out of place for a pack this small. But again, it doesn’t really hurt anything with regard to performance. It’s just odd.

The Allhaula Waist Pack is available in Volcanic (shown) or Ensign Blue.

MSRP: $50