In the last couple weeks I’ve had a great number of conversations circulating around the topic of good carry guns and how to win and survive a violent encounter. There are a great deal of nearly mythic attributes that a great many people assign to firearms and other defensive tools and I want to make a general address here that sums up a conversation I’ve had about 50 different variations of recently.
Let’s do some Myth Busting.
1. I’m not planning to get into a gunfight so I don’t need a *Insert Modern Duty Sized Semi-Auto*
Let’s start here. You’re lying. Yes you are planning to get into a gunfight that is the reason why you are trying to pick up a defensive handgun for home or concealed carry. Now you are not deliberately seeking out a gunfight or other confrontation, I understand that, but you are deliberately planning your response to an attack and are therefore “planning to get into a gunfight”.
Let’s use some numbers now. From PoliceOne’s Force Science Institute using Baltimore County and LAC (considered by the study to be well trained and competent LE organizations) lets look at accuracy over 350 incidents.
Daylight, close quarters shooting against one hostile: 64%
Impaired lighting, close quarters shooting against one hostile: 40-45%
Average number of rounds fired against one hostile: 3.6/3 to 4
Impaired lighting shooting incidents: 77%
So using comparative logic a trained individual carrying a firearm who has to use it in defense can expect about 3 of 5 shots to hit the threat in “perfect” conditions with rapid declination in accuracy to below 10% as conditions worsen and complications arise.
So that five shot snub-nose or six shot .380 ACP is realistically only an effective response to a single close range threat. The presence of a second or greater number of threats significantly increases the potential dangers with a lower capacity firearm. You’re now relying on their reaction to flee when you engage over your ability to continue to effectively engage.
Now this does not mean drop your J-Frame and grab a 33rd mag and a Glock 9mm. It is to be illustrative of the realistic capabilities of your carry firearm regardless of what that carry firearm is. While those five shots of .38 SPL is an impressive force multiplier in a J-Frame, it is still only five shots and plan accordingly.
2. She needs a laser/I need a laser/a laser will make it easier so I don’t have to aim/laser will scare the bad people off
These are extensions of a couple of biases and a result of good advertisement.
She needs a laser = She can’t aim like a normal person because she’s a woman. It sounds a lot more ridiculous when you put it like that. She can train and learn just like everyone else, probably quicker.
I need a laser = With the notable exception of having eyesight issues that a bright green or red dot can overcome, no you don’t. A laser is not an auto aim, it isn’t even an effective crutch for poor aiming technique.
A laser will make it easier so I don’t have to aim = It is a battery operated electronic that can and has failed because it is attached to something that shakes violently every time you fire. Also batteries run out, and most people don’t pay attention to that until they’re dead (the battery, hopefully not you). That laser is going to move with every single movement of your body, every twitch of your wrist, arm, shoulder, chest, legs, etc. It does not stay steadily and menacingly in the chest of a threat, it will flit here and there and your cat will chase it.
A laser will scare the bad people off = This is an extension of the “magic talisman” theory of self defense. Relying solely on the presence of the defensive tool and not your own skills and plan to get yourself to safety and win a fight. Hollywood has established this troupe and loves to use it. Laser sight makers like to slide parallel to that Hollywood stereotype because it sells sights, that’s just advertising nothing malicious. But reality being what it is the presence of a laser on a firearm won’t deter, to any greater degree, an in progress attack than the visible presence of a firearm already did or didn’t.
Now that I’ve ragged on lasers enough go ahead and use them, just use them properly. A laser on a pistol, rifle, or shotgun can be a force multiplicative tool. When practiced with properly they can make aiming faster and more effective, especially in adverse lighting. They can blind a threat and cause disorientation. When properly maintained they are very reliable. But, just as with that little comfortable carry gun, be very realistic about the capabilities and limitations of your tools… Next
3. She needs a small lady’s gun.
False.
Full frame firearms are easier to shoot: Fact
This does not change with gender: Fact
Small frame firearms are only good at one thing, being small. They trade ease of shooting, good sights, good triggers, and sizable controls for a greater concealment factor and convenience. This convenience is purposely designed to make it easy and more likely that you will carry. It is a trade off.
The only time a smaller frame firearm will fit properly is on particularly small hands in which case it is a properly sized firearm for control. This is also a gender neutral fact.
When picking a small framed firearm be certain it fits objective criteria and not picked based on notional conceptions.
4. Brand Myopia
Now for the most subjective of all but it is a great disservice to shooters, new shooters especially. The most recent iteration I heard went thus…
“Glock? No, f*ck that I won’t use a throw away gun.”
To pull just one objective counter here, Glock is currently authorized as the sidearm for USSOCOM, procured for Naval Surface Warfare (SEALs) and MARSOC (Marine Raiders). Two elite military direct action units would not pick a throw away gun.
Now this little fight seems to crop up between different brands and is usually the byproduct of hearsay, conjecture, and personal bias. There are absolutely different levels of quality on firearms, but the category of firearms that routinely competes with highest marks for police and military contracts should be given their objective due. To believe otherwise is naive.
Welcome to the We Like Shooting show, Episode 146 – tonight we’ll talk about NRA Annual meetings, Sig’s new arm brace, Iron clad gloves, Henry rifles, SOE Belts, Hodgdon reloading center and more!
Last August, Martland was reprimanded as part of the Qualitative Management Program, which separates soldiers who receive bad marks from uniformed duty. After many months, Thursday evening the Army Board for Correction of Military Records reversed that decision, Fox News reported after contacting Martland.
The story dates from 2011, when Martland let his temper get the best of him after he and his captain allegedly heard an Afghan police officer admit to raping a 12-year-old boy in Kunduz province, Afghanistan. The boy’s mother was also assaulted by the alleged rapist after she went to authorities.
Among Martland’s supporters were the Veterans of Foreign Wars and even actor Harvey Keitel, but it was Rep. Duncan Hunter (R-California) and his staff who Martland named in his big first interview since the news.
“I am real thankful for being able to continue to serve,” Martland told Fox News. “I appreciate everything Congressman Duncan Hunter and his Chief of Staff, Joe Kasper did for me.”
“The Army did the right thing and we won — the American people, won,” Rep. Hunter told Fox News. “Martland is who we want out there.”
The American Center for Law and Justice, which wrote dozens of letters to top defense officials and President Obama appealing for Martland’s stay, claimed a “massive victory” upon hearing the news.
“The decision by the Army to retain this hero is long overdue and represents a significant victory for SFC Martland,” said Chief Counsel of the ACLJ, Jay Sekulow. “Justice has been served. The U.S. military has a moral obligation to stop child sexual abuse and exonerate SFC Martland for defending a child from rape. The Army finally took the corrective action needed and this is not only a victory for SFC Martland, but for the American people as well.”
It’s not revealed when Maryland may be returned to duty.
Being a member of the U.S. Navy Parachute Team, the Leap Frogs, brings certain advantages. The team is tasked with the promotion of the Navy SEAL and SWCC teams to the American public. They are demonstrating professional Navy excellence by performing precision aerial maneuvers throughout the United States in support of Navy public outreach.
Their last stop was in Knoxville, where they took part of Knoxville Navy Week on April 16,2016 where they jumped into Neyland Stadium to kick off the Orange vs. White UT Vols Spring Scrimmage football game.
How it looks when SEALs jumping out of the plate find in the video down below.
The big theme this year? Women’s concealed carry solutions. Due to the wide variety of wardrobe types, women have it particularly tough when it comes to finding safe, secure, and effective ways to carry a concealed gun. Retailers have it tough too, deciding what to stock from the wide universe of concealed carry products. Multiply the types of carry holster solutions by the number of gun types, and inventory becomes an impossible problem.
We found three new options that provide excellent concealment solutions for your customers while minimizing inventory investment requirements. Let’s take a look.
Packin’ Neat System
Right, wrong, or indifferent, many women are going to carry a concealed handgun in their purse. According to Packin’ Neat founder Kristin Franke, gun stores shouldn’t try to be in the fashion business by stocking gun purses. That’s one of the reasons Kristen invented the Packin’ Neat System. It’s a structured nylon insert designed to carry a gun, ammo, and a woman’s everyday essentials. The whole assembly goes into their existing purse. Customers get the benefits of a dedicated gun storage system with the ability to use their pocketbook of choice. The retailer only has to stock the insert body and four replaceable gun holsters. It’s a win-win.
The Packin’ Neat purse insert. The tall pocket holds the gun in upright position for one-handed draw capability.
UnderTech Undercover Leggings and Compression Shorts
While convenient, purse carry has one big disadvantage. It’s an off body carry method, so a handgun is not always in the carrier’s possession. That’s the driving force behind the variety of solutions developed by the UnderTech Undercover folks. They’ve offered compression undershirts with holster pockets for years. New this year are women’s leggings with holster pockets sewn in. Pockets allow carry in the appendix or behind the hip bone position and no traditional belt rigs are required, allowing women to carry with a wide variety of dress options. The company also makes compression shorts that are worn under other clothing.
New for 2016 are leggings with holster pockets in the appendix and behind the hip bone positions.
Dene Adams
Founder Anna Henry tried all the women’s carry options before starting Dene Adams. Having four small children, she was particularly concerned with gun security. Also, she didn’t want her carry gun interfering with her daily activities of lugging kids around, getting them in and out of cars, picking them up, and so on. That’s why she developed the Dene Adams Carry Corset series. The idea of this solution is to provide an on-body carry method what works with existing clothing choices. While the front surface is decorated with lace, don’t let that fool you. The holster compartment is sturdy and the fabric thick enough to do a fine job of protecting the trigger. The rig keeps the gun pulled in tight, just above the waistline. Oh, and the lace cover is there for good reason. When using the rig under two piece clothing ensembles, any inadvertent exposure looks natural and not tactical, so it’s really a concealment aid.
The Dene Adams Carry Corset holds the gun in tight. An optional Kydex insert provides absolute trigger protection.
All three of these companies have active dealer programs and solid margins. Better yet, the designs aren’t specific to certain gun models, so you can stock them without breaking the bank.
Since 9/11 terrorist attacks, many things are not the same. So the Coast Guard has changed, now they are under the Department of Homeland Security and its mission has been expanded. So the HITRON has got the whole new role. From then to now, they have gone through a major reconstruction. In order to understand, you need to see this video which will tell you all about it and you will see and discover the U.S. Coast Guard in an entirely new way.
HITRON stands for Helicopter Interdiction Tactical Squadron which has taken on certain responsibilities after 9/11 which are far beyond its traditional life-saving missions. Today, HITRON is an armed U.S. Coast Guard helicopter squadron specializing in Airborne Use of Force (AUF) and drug-interdiction missions. It is based at Cecil Field in Jacksonville, Florida.
They turned up into a true military force and already they have gained even more respect for the complex mission of our smallest military unit. So, guess what? This is not your average Coast Guard video. You will encounter the modern Coast Guard so sit back and enjoy this intimate view into the 21st-century Coast Guard.
Rep. Triston Cole (R) of the 105th District recently introduced House Bill 5547. This bill is what many in the community refer to as a “parking lot bill” – a bill intended to prevent businesses from prohibiting the storage of firearms in vehicles that are parked in their lots.
What it does
Subsection (2) of the bill pretty well sums things up:
“A person, business, commercial enterprise, employer, or state service agency shall not prohibit an individual who lawfully possesses a firearm from transporting or storing the firearm or ammunition in a locked and privately owned or operated motor vehicle that is parked in a parking lot, parking garage, area designed for parking vehicles, or area used to transfer, hold, or load goods and services…”
The rest of the bill goes on to deal with what happens if subsection (2) is not followed. Some of the provisions included are:
Except in cases of gross negligence, the listed entities are indemnified against any civil action resulting from someone storing their firearm as required.
Individuals who are harmed by noncompliance with subsection (2) may sue the responsible entity and shall be awarded costs and attorney fees if they prevail.
Employees may not be harmed in any way for storing a firearm as described. Employees that are harmed may sue for damages, including full reinstatement and the loss of any wages or benefits.
The bill also specifies that it does not apply to any entity that would be required to violate another state or federal law in order to comply with the new provisions in the bill.
Not everyone is lining up to support
While “pro-gun” bills are generally well received by the firearms community, at least the ones that are well written, bills like HB 5574 are another story. To be clear, it seems no one disagrees with the “pro-gun” label, but rather whether or not bills like this are the right way to advance the cause.
It just so happens that two individuals from Michigan Open Carry, Inc.’s Legislative Team hold diametrically differing views on HB 5574, which makes them great to help detail the arguments for and against.
The following is intended to outline points for and against, rather than to advocate any stance.
Support 5574
Allowing law-abiding gun owners to at least keep their firearms out-of-sight in a locked vehicle they own, does more than prevent them from being dangerously disarmed even after they leave the property.
The gun prohibitionists know that in order to make a society turn against the principles of bearing arms and self defense, they must simply reduce the number of gun owners. This is why in many states where the gun prohibitionists haven’t been successful, they have tried to make gun ownership socially unacceptable and have pressured businesses, and even homeowners associations, to prohibit firearms.
Some of those who oppose this bill describe themselves as “Constitutionalists”, yet the constitution also authorizes aggression, including but not limited to taxes, martial law, etc. So unless a person is a voluntarist or an anarchists, to say that this bill is aggression against a business owner while at the same time holding the constitution in high regard, requires a bit of cognitive dissonance. Simply put, the constitution itself is an act of aggression as it already greatly restricts property rights.
Some may say this bill infringes on private property or places an “undue burden” on the owner; however, that’s not the case according to the courts. Rational Basis is the standard that is used for commercial activity in most cases, and people having access to tools of self defense meets this standard. This is why the government already has restrictions on “private property” that include, race, religion, sexual preference, disabilities, labor standards, collective bargaining, and dozens more. Further, no action is required on the part of a business owner, they can simply not search anyone’s car. In fact, employers almost never search a car of an employee, unless they think they have a firearm in the vehicle.
Simply put, if the gun prohibitionists can’t get their way at the legislature, then making as many gun owners jobless and homeless as possible is an acceptable alternative in the meantime. Yes, the anti-rights crowd has no problem ruining the lives of you and your children, consider yourselves collateral damage. They can’t care less about private property, they already want to confiscate your property. They didn’t suddenly gain principles in a parking lot, so do not be fooled.
This bill is reasonable. It helps create an environment to protect our rights and ensure safety, just as the Constitution is viewed as reasonable and unquestionable by “Constitutionalists” even though it greatly restricts private property with taxation, eminent domain.
Avoid 5574
While bills like HB 5574 may provide practical benefits to some gun owners, supporting such a bill will result in the loss of a moral “high ground” that we’ve relied on previously, again and again, to fend off the anti-gun bigots.
The ability to defend oneself is most certainly a core element of liberty. However, so is the ability to regulate your property as you see fit, whether it’s your house, or in this case, the property of a business you may own. As the saying (as cliche as it may be) goes: “Your rights end where another’s begin”.
Morally, a person or private entity should have every right to dictate the terms for being on property they own, whether it’s a building or a parking lot. Let me be clear: A non-owner has absolutely no inherent right to be on someone else’s property – regardless if it’s owned by a private individual or a company (which, of course, are owned by private individuals). To abridge the terms and conditions that a private property owner can specify is completely antithetical to the concept of liberty, a core tenant of the pro-gun movement.
While some may say proposals such as HB 5574 are no different than a slew of ways the state already regulates private property, while true, using the state as a metric for morality is always a bad choice. If we go down this road, wouldn’t then our country’s history of gun control be a devastating tool to be used against us.
Others may bring up “public accommodation” – as though the general acceptance of the public should hold a private property owner to a different standard than what they can get away with for their personal residence. This concept is flawed because, for the purposes of HB 5574, there is no difference if you run a business out of your home. There is nothing in the bill which specifies it only affects these “public accommodations”. So if you run a business out of your house, you’re still subject to the same requirements as a mall.
Public buildings or property, on the other hand, should respect the rights of the people they serve. If this bill only affected state agencies, none of the above would apply. That said, private property owners should be able to dictate the terms for which you can utilize their property.
Let the anti-gun bigots out themselves, so we know where not to go.
Editors Note:
I want to thank Tom Lambert of MOC for the synopsis here and the gathering of these conflicted viewpoints from Jared Coyne and Jason Gillman Jr. As a gun owner and business owner, I have never been more torn on a bill that was Pro-Gun. We have kept comments turned off on all our articles due to spam and infighting. I encourage all of you to share this article on your social media pages and open further discussion or join us on https://www.facebook.com/248Shooter/ to discuss this bill further. I am really interested in hearing the opinions of those affected.
The Vanquest Envoy 2.0 messenger bag has been a favorite of mine since our original review back in 2014. This year’s update to Envoy 3.0 has made a great bag, even better.
Two built-in bottle holders for 32oz (1L) Nalgene bottles with shock cord retention
Front flap’s MOLLE-Air structure with loop-face
More internal loop fields for CCW and organization
Upgradeable to optional GT-COBRA™ Sling Strap system
Bottle Holders
Expandable Nalgene Pockets
Lack of Nalgene bottle storage was one of my complaints going from the Gen 1 to Gen 2. I understood the reason they did this and worked around the issue. As a person that carries a minimum of one bottle with me and due to kids (often I have two), the lack of proper storage for these with easy access was a pain. I often stored them in the bag which was workable unless loading the bag down for travel.
The new system is ingenious. Unlike the Gen 1 that left a large open pocket when not in use the Gen 3 secures the Nalgene pocket with a zipper. This keeps the profile of your bag smaller for those stupid Sprit Airlines carry-on rules, but opens up quickly and easily when you need it.
As an added bonus (and not mentioned in the product description) this pocket also has a shock cord loop at the top to secure the bottle. Very nice touch Vanquest.
MOLLE-Air
Velcro and MOLLE in one.
Instead of traditional hook and loop or MOLLE attachment points, Vanquest introduced their new, lighter-weight MOLLE-Air system. This means that regardless of the type of system you use to attach, you can do it without adapters. This new system combines ultra-durable Cordura® fabric, laminated with loop face that has laser-cut and stitch-reinforced MOLLE slots. It also works great for patches or Identifier tags.
Optional GT-Cobra Sling Strap
I didn’t have any issues with the standard shoulder strap system. I’m not a bike messenger, and my commute to work is in a car, not a train or bus. Being comfortable as I carry or walk with the bag has been my number one issue on messenger bags. The Gen 3 delivers that out of the box. However, the added ergonomics and comfort of the optional GT-Cobra Sling strap, will be a welcome addition to more active bicycle or motorcycle commuters.
More Internal Organizational Hook and Loop
One of the things we talked to Alex at Vanquest about after reviewing the Gen 2 was the lack of hook and loop to secure your CCW in the concealed carry pocket. You want to know where the gun will be and how it will be positioned when reaching for it. This upgrade allows you to attach Vanquest’s universal CCW holster, double magazine holder or any other hook and loop accessory for quick access.
I am super excited to see this new line of clothing from Magpul. Scroll down to the new pants they are offering for a sneak peak at an upcoming review. These pants look to be much like the Apex pants I love at a better price point.
Be sure to watch the videos and follow the links to get the full lowdown on the new tactical line.
“Everyday Wear”
In Magpul Core, “everyday” could mean scrambling across a snow covered ridgeline, trekking across the plains of Africa, or working through triple canopy jungles, but…much larger percentages of our lives are spent in far less adventurous settings.
Magpul Apparel is engineered with performance in mind–using modern fabrics and fabric treatments–and is designed to be comfortable and effective during demanding activities. We included smart features that make a difference and avoided the temptation to include “add-ons” that look better on paper than they perform in the field.
The apparel line was also created with the goal of being equally at home in a restaurant, an airport, or a market, and not look like some sort of costume, as “tactical” or “performance” clothing often does.
Our design team has chosen timeless styles that can remain stable–so that shirt that you really like is available to purchase next year, and not discarded with the seasonal fads of fashion.
We’re also bringing this line to you with the same “value for money” proposition we offer with all of our products, so that your dollar goes further to get the features, materials, and fit that you want–no matter what you do or where you choose to do it.
The Magpul Workshirt is ideal for any job where you are getting your hands or self dirty.
Our Workshirt features stain resistant, durable 100% Polyester fabric, with two chest pockets, Magpul embroidery on sleeve and back shoulder, and a button-front placket with a faux button-snap at the waist for ease.
FEATURES
· 4.9 oz 100% Polyester fabric with Stain Resistant treatment
· Straight fit through chest and waist with slight taper at hem
· Pleated back and split side seam for movement
· 16.5” sleeve opening (based on Large)
· Snap closure chest pockets
· Relaxed, casual fit
· Full button placket with faux-button snap at bottom
A long sleeved version of our short sleeved standby, the Magpul Long Sleeve Workshirt is for days when you really need some extra covering.
Our Long Sleeve Workshirt features stain resistant, durable 100% Polyester fabric, with two chest pockets, Magpul embroidery on sleeve and back shoulder, and a button-front placket with a faux button-snap at the waist for ease. It also has snap cuffs to make rolling up your sleeves easy.
FEATURES
· 4.9 oz 100% Polyester fabric with Stain Resistant treatment
· Straight fit through chest and waist with slight taper at hem
· 8.75” sleeve opening (based on Large)
· Pleated back and split side seam for movement
· Snap closure chest pockets
· Full button placket with faux-button snap at bottom
The Mansfield short sleeve shirt is your casual solution for work, travel, indoor or outdoor activity.
The heathered fabric has built in moisture wicking properties that keep you cool and let you dry easily. Split side seams and a curved hem allow for a casual, relaxed look. This shirt has easy entry snap front placket and pockets, with a hidden cash or ID pocket on the inside left chest. Magpul flag label on left side seam.
A multifunctional shirt, our Mansfield long sleeve shirt is great for work, travel, and warm weather days.
The heathered yarns in the fabric have built in moisture wicking properties that keep you cool and dry. Split side seams and a curved hem allow to be worn tucked in or out. This shirt has easy entry snap front placket and pockets, with a hidden cash/ID pocket on the inside left chest. Roll up the sleeves for a casual look, or keep them down for nice dinners. Magpul flag label on left side seam.
A casual, light weight, short sleeve, the Rainey Short Sleeve plaid is functional for work or play.
Split side seams and a curved hem allow for a casual, relaxed look, while the underarm gusset and generous back pleats give you freedom to move. Snap front placket and single chest pocket. Custom Magpul plaid layout with Magpul flag label on left side seam.
FEATURES
· 55% Cotton / 45% Poly woven plaid shirting
· Straight fit through chest and waist with slight taper to hem
· 17” sleeve opening (based on size L)
· Pleated back and split side seam for movement
· Forward shoulder seam reduces chafe from wearing bags/packs
· Snap front placket and open entry chest pocket
· Non Stretch fabric
Available in Leather Brown, Sea Spray, Blue Stone, and New Charcoal
Built for durability and function, the Instructor Polo is made of tough, colorfast, 100% polyester pique.
It has lots of storage options to cover your needs including an eyewear loop, two pen pockets on the left sleeve and a small pocket on the right sleeve for business cards or storing foamies. No shoulder seam and a full side panel allow for movement, and the polo is long enough to be worn tucked or untucked. The center back and sleeve logos are reflective so you can be seen day and night. Two button placket.
The Utility Pant is the cargo pant for people who hate cargo pants.
Made of cotton/polyester ripstop, the fabric has been pre-washed to reduce stiffness. This pant boasts the same engineered crotch gusset as all Magpul pants and also has seams on the back waist that fit around you in place of a waistband, reducing bulk. Along with reinforced hand pockets, this pant has two inverted cargo style pockets that don’t bulge out when you fill them. Top opening rear welt pockets allow for ease of access. 5 extra large belt loops on the waistband allow for use with any belt. Logo patch on center back loop. Reinforced zipper fly closure with metal zip.
The Utility Short is the cargo short for those who hate wearing cargo shorts.
It is made of cotton/polyester ripstop that has been prewashed to reduce stiffness. This pant has the same crotch gusset as all Magpul bottoms for better movement and also has the seamed back for fit. Along with reinforced hand pockets, this pant has two inverted cargo style pockets that don’t bulge out when you fill them. Top opening rear welt pockets allow for ease of access. 5 extra large belt loops allow for use with any belt with a logo patch on the extra large back loop. Reinforced zipper fly closure with metal zip.
FEATURES
· Enzyme washed 60% Cotton / 40% Poly Ripstop
· 240 g/m2 midweight fabric
· 22” outseam, 11” inseam
· Straight fit from hip to knee
· 22” leg opening (based on size 34)
· 6 pocket total, including two reverse style cargo pockets
· Crotch gusset and seamed back for optimum fit and movement
· Triple needle stitched reinforced fly with metal zipper
Magpul’s combination of a durable work pant and a pair of jeans, the mid-weight twill has a stain resistant and soil release treatment. This makes it easier to get and keep these pants clean in messy situations. The Cotton/Spandex blended stretch fabric and crotch gusset allow this pant to be less baggy but still gives a wide range of movement. 7 extra large belt loops on the waistband allow for use with any belt. The Flex Pant has seams on the back waist that fit around you in place of a waistband, reducing bulk. There are 6 pockets, which include reinforced, large back pockets, and reinforced hand pockets, coin, and cash pocket. Logo patch on center back loop. Reinforced zipper fly closure with metal zip.
For warmer days when you still need durability and ability to move, our Flex Short will fill your needs.
Constructed out of our stain resistant and soil release treated mid-weight stretch twill, the 6-pocket short boasts the same reinforced, large back pockets, reinforced hand pockets, coin, and cash pockets as our Flex pant. The Cotton/Spandex blended fabric combined with an engineered crotch gusset gives ample movement while reducing the need for excess fabric. 7 extra large belt loops on the waistband allow for use with any belt. The Flex Short has seams on the back waist that fit around you in place of a waistband, reducing bulk. Logo patch on center back loop. Reinforced zipper fly closure with metal zip.
The Magpul Bonnell Pant are the pants you wear when you would rather wear shorts.
They are perfect for long days outdoors, in a plane, or on the road. The ultra lightweight four-way stretch nylon fabric allows for extreme freedom of movement and has an antimicrobial treatment to prevent the growth of bacteria and keep you smelling fresh. The fabric is also quick drying, which makes them great for activities around water. The engineered crotch gusset, reinforced knees and heels, and back leg seams allow for ample protection while still letting you move. 5 extra large belt loops on the waistband allow for use with any belt. The Bonnell Pant has seams on the back waist that fit around you in place of a waistband, reducing bulk. 6 pockets in total, with two zippered back welt pockets to keep out dirt, a thigh pocket, a hidden hip pocket, and reinforced hand pockets. Logo patch on center back loop. Reinforced metal zipper fly closure.
The Bonnell Short is a multifunctional short, great for outdoor activities, especially those near water.
The ultra lightweight, four way stretch nylon fabric has an antimicrobial treatment to prevent the growth of bacteria and keep you smelling fresh and is also quick drying. This short has an engineered gusset to really let you move. 5 extra large belt loops on the waistband allow for use with any belt, while the seamed back fits over you without the added bulk of a waistband. 6 pockets in total, with two zippered back welt pockets to keep out dirt, a hidden envelope pocket, a zippered hip pocket, and reinforced hand pockets. Metal zipper fly closure.
The Flightline Pant is Magpul’s solution for garage, track, or tarmac- these bottoms are meant to get dirty.
The mid-weight twill has the same fabric as our Flex Pant with stain resistant and soil release treatment. The Cotton/Spandex blended stretch fabric combined with an engineered crotch gusset allow for a high range of movement. 7 extra large belt loops on the waistband allow for use with any belt, while the seamed back allows for best fit without the need of a waistband, reducing bulk. Front legs have a full overlay that extends over the side seam, protecting it and also creating a tool or flashlight pocket. Internal knee pockets allow for kneepad use. Front hem has an extended boot cover that can be folded up or down to protect your footwear. Logo patch on center back loop. Reinforced zipper fly closure with metal zip.
Welcome to the We Like Shooting show, Episode 143 – tonight we’ll talk about Armaspec stock, ruger american, discount AR parts, Hoback Knives, Falcon 37’s Habu charging handle and more!
When Ruger introduced the new Ruger Precision Rifle there was certainly a lot of fanfare. The press went wild, but the reaction by some retailers was one of caution and skepticism.
Ruger has been known for the durability of its firearms, but not necessarily precision. The manufacturing technology and engineering capabilities of Ruger today are significantly upgraded from where they were just a decade ago. Ruger has clearly taken advantage of those capabilities on its new firearm introductions over the past few years. The Ruger Precision Rifle is a benchmark representation of all of those incredible engineering and manufacturing technologies coming together.
On Target
The pre-release reviews and accuracy claims had already started to pour in with the 6.5 Creedmore variant, but nothing had been noted on the ones chambered in .308 or .243.
Like many, I was still skeptical — was it just the proven 6.5 Creedmore round making the new Ruger look good, or had Ruger really done their homework for the .243 and .308 models to deliver accuracy as well? Customers will be relieved to know the Ruger Precision Rifle is stunningly accurate by any standards in any of the three current offered calibers.
We got our hands on the .308 and .243 models to test the accuracy against similar Howa, Savage and Remington .308 builds. Within the first 20 rounds, the Ruger .308 Precision Rifle delivered pinpoint five-round, 1.5-inch 300 yard and .3 inch 100 yard groups with Hornady 168gr A-Max ammunition. The .243 model delivered very similar groups. In fact, many Ruger Precision Rifle shooters are reporting and posting essentially single hole 100- yard groups with all three models.
The 6.5 Creedmore is, of course, the top performer at very long 1000+ yard ranges. However, none of the models are significantly better on the 100-yard line. What I noticed immediately on both my tested rifles was that the Precision Rifle also delivered a level of ergonomic comfort, personalized adjustment and recoil management, which is expensive to reproduce only through upgrades on other factory rifles.
Ruger combined everything a competitive or precision shooter wants in one off-the-shelf package, which requires nothing more than match ammo, a good set of scope rings and optic to deliver on that precision. The action is extremely accurate and smooth, the barrel is threaded and ready for muzzle brakes or suppressors and Ruger wrapped the action in a true match trigger and magazine box-fed modular billet precision rifle stock. All of this for an extremely competitive $1,400 MSRP. A Remington, Howa or Savage with matching precision and similar features would easily touch the $2,000 mark excluding customer gunsmithing.
Ruger Speaks
To understand a bit more about Ruger’s design intent, we reached out to the Ruger’s Chief of Marketing Ken Jorgensen with a few questions retailers and customers are sure to ponder. Jorgensen rallied the Precision Rifle design and product management teams to consolidate and provide answers to a few of our questions.
SSR: What was the inspiration of the Ruger Precision Rifle line?
Jorgensen: There are several contributing factors in the development of the Ruger Precision Rifle. We saw a growing interest in long-range shooting, but noted many of the rifles available commercially or being built by the shooters were very expensive. This seemed [to be] an opportunity worth exploring. A number of people at Ruger, including CEO Mike Fifer, have spent time at FTW Ranch in Texas doing long-range shooting. This lead to an interest in a dedicated rifle. One of the design engineers is a long-range shooter and was very tuned in to the expectations of shooters and the capabilities of Ruger design and manufacturing. All these interests came together in the Ruger Precision Rifle.
SSR: The public response has been pretty significant. Are the sales indicating that Ruger has another top selling firearm on their hands?
Jorgensen: The demand has been very good and it would seem that the Ruger Precision Rifle delivers a rifle shooters see as a very desirable product and a great value.
SSR: Which model has been the top seller?
Jorgensen: At present, we are mostly shipping in 6.5 Creedmoor and .308 Winchester. The 6.5 Creedmoor is of primary interest to many. The folks interested in the rifle and its capabilities are knowledgeable about long-range shooting and the reputation of the 6.5 as a long distance cartridge is well known.
SSR: Are there considerations for offering smaller and much larger calibers models as well?
Jorgensen: There will be other calibers in the future.
Behind The Counter
While it’s clear from the folks at Ruger that the company built a long range competition rifle by shooters, for shooters, we wanted to hear what retailers out there thought of the rifle’s prospects. Sales managers at Cabela’s, Scheels and two other independant local firearms dealers all indicated they cannot keep any of the Ruger Precision rifles in stock. All went on to note that every Ruger Precision Rifle is currently sold before they even hit the shelves.
One sales manager noted that in some situations, customers do not even care what caliber is available and are buying up whatever caliber is coming in. The Ruger Precision Rifle delivers everything a long-range shooter could want with accuracy far beyond what customers expect from a stock rifle. If this is the new standard Ruger is setting for precision, we all might have to start thinking of them in terms of “precision” instead of durability.
You’re on a trip, a beautiful drive through middle America, and you see a shining sign.
Cabela’s!
You stop, naturally, to go in and do the tour. Ten minutes later you return to your vehicle, a box of ammo in a bag and drink from the cooler in hand to see that your car doors were forced open in broad daylight.
It’s Sunday; the game is on in an hour, and you’re getting off the range. You drive to your friend’s house, you’ve been there plenty of times, so you pull in and park, lock up, and head inside. The game finishes a few hours later and you prep to leave. You get in your car to go but notice that the rifle bag you had is now missing.
Your gun is gone. What do you do now?
Firearms theft is an all too real reality that has to be dealt with. Theft of personal property always stings, but firearms have a special burn when they’re taken. The Iron Pipeline of illegal and stolen firearms that end up at crime scenes is fed off these snatch and grabs from homes and vehicles.
These crimes happen so what do you do?
Step One. Call the Police.
Duh.
Yes but it needs to be mentioned. Roll the police immediately and start gathering the information they’ll need.
Your name and address, ID
Phone number
Location
Serial Number/’s of the stolen guns and the make and model. The police may ask for special features or defining characteristics, but the serial numbers are essential.
The police will probably process the scene, catalog what is gone, and submit the report. This could take several hours, and you’ll receive an incident report number associated with the report. Keep it.
Theft nation wide continues to grow.
Step Two. Call your Insurance.
Vehicle and Home Owners/Renters insurance will have coverage for the theft. Submit the report number and most of the details you gave the police to insurance and start the process to recover what you can.
Step Three. …wait what? Insurance? What does my Insurance cover?
CHECK!
Check now what is specifically covered, especially related to firearms and associated gear. You may need to increase coverage. You may need to add names to policies. You might find it is time to switch insurance companies. Check prior, because afterward you are SOL.
In some places theft is up as much as 65%
Step Four. Call Local Gun Shops and Pawn Shops.
Any and all local shops near the theft should be contacted by you and given descriptions of the firearms. The police will not do this, and the shops have no way to run a serial number quickly on every gun that comes in used. They need to be updated individually if you want them to look for your guns that might be sold to them for quick cash.
Step Five… Well, that’s it, to be honest…
Sad but true
Unfortunately, the cold reality is that firearm theft is still a property crime. No one is going to be scouring dark alleys or shaking down shady contacts in any dramatic fashion, no more than if a TV or a pair of shoes were stolen.
You’ll see your guns again if they turn up, usually meaning if they were used in some sort of crime or taken into evidence as part of or associated with a crime. Perhaps sometime, perhaps never.
An officer on the force of the jurisdiction where mine were stolen said bluntly several weeks later. “We’re never going to see those guns.”
In all reality they’re right, the Iron Pipeline of stolen guns might never return them back to my ownership.
Welcome to the We Like Shooting show, Episode 144 – tonight we’ll talk about Microsoft hololens, Garmin Fenix 3 Sapphire, Sig Scorpion Evo E3, Kinetic Development Group, Shit savage found on Reddit and more!
We took a Pelican 1700 for a spin over the last 90 days to review, and it updated my opinion on hard cases.
Hard cases felt like a good idea when I first started my gun collection. Quickly I built a corner of my office that is dedicated to all my assorted sized cases. I seldom used them preferring lighter, collapsible soft cases for most of my uses. Though I do heavily rely on the smaller ones for magazines and pistols when traveling through Il and NY.
As I travel more and spend time in the firearms community my interest in hard cases was rekindled. A trip to PAK Rite in Wixom where Morgan showed me some of the excellent organizational ideas they had developed for the Pelican line of cases. If you’re a fan of custom cases, Pelican cases with Pak Rite (https://www.thepelicancaseoutlet.com/) foam are a must have.
This is our Pelican 1700 after Pak-Rite did its thing
The next thing that happened was the need to travel with a rifle for a class out of state via airplane. A locking secure transportation was a requirement of that course. Having wheels and an easy way to transport equipment was an incredibly nice plus. Pelican cases offer very sturdy locking tabs and with reinforced padlock holes you can meet TSA travel requirements. For those of us who are overly cautious driving through Il and NY with weapons, these cases exceed the requirements of interstate travel and should offer some protection should you be stopped during transit through the state. Your mileage may vary, and we make no legal advice in these regards.
Watertight, crushproof, and dustproof
Easy open Double Throw latches
Open cell core with solid wall design – strong, light weight
O-ring seal
Automatic Pressure Equalization Valve – balances interior pressure, keeps water out
Fold down side handle
Strong polyurethane wheels with stainless steel bearings
Stainless steel hardware and padlock protectors
3-piece foam set
BODY: Polypropylene
LATCH: ABS
O-RING: Polymer
PINS: Stainless Steel
FOAM: 1.3 lb Polyurethane
PURGE BODY: ABS
PURGE VENT: 3 Micron Hydrophobic Non-Woven
PURGE O-RING: 70 Shore Nitrile
TOTAL DEPTH: 5.25″ (13.3 cm)
INT VOLUME: 1.47 ft³ (0.042 m³)
WEIGHT WITH FOAM: 16.98 lbs (7.7 kg)
BUOYANCY: 136.91 lbs (62.1 kg)
MINIMUM TEMPERATURE: -40° F (-40 ° C)
MAXIMUM TEMPERATURE: 210° F (99 ° C)
WHEELS: 2
Science Decoded:
These cases are designed for temperature ranges that will make an EOTech miss a barn. While -40 to 210 is not a common range you would be surprised the variations in storage compartments traveling from Detroit to Vegas.
The built in vents allow for the release of excess pressure without allowing water or contaminates into the case. I have been testing this with a Pelican 1010 holding ammo in my car for the last year. From warm summers to cold winters, the case and the ammo have held up magnificently.
On The Range
Michigan seldom has perfect weather. Often training takes place in snow (even in April) and rain. Soft bags are less than ideal when you’re heading to a class that is wet. Being able to set out a hard case that you can simply wipe down before stowing back in your truck makes for a much better experience and leads to less moisture in your vehicle.
The 1700 specifically offers a rolling cart solution making transport from vehicle to range an easy trip. With room for a carbine, handgun and magazines in the Pelican 1700, which leaves you with only a range bag with ammo and ear pro to carry.
For us sticker collectors they look real nice on a case. Special thanks to all our supporter who we decided to feature on this case.
Product Support
Pelican offers a Lifetime limited warranty on all its products. Pelican will replace or repair any part or item broken for the lifetime of the product. That is HUGE. One of the reasons they can do this is because they are making a high-quality product here in the USA that was designed to meet or exceed military standards. You can find posts around the web praising the customer service in the rare incidents people have had an issue with their case.
Configurability
The Pelican 1700 case is ideal for so many because it’s a blank slate that can fit a lot. When you look at cutting the foam you have a myriad of options on how much gear can fit in. Because carbine classes and travel usually dictate a single AR and pistol my configuration focuses on those with spare mags for each as well as a sling and optic. That does not mean that is what you need to do with it. I have seen the 1700 configured with a single lower and multiple uppers for example.
Sub Compact Gun
Close up of Pak Rite Work
Close up of Pak Rite Work
Close up of Pak Rite Work
Conclusion
Pelican is a Mil-spec container for a reason. Sensitive equipment from just about every part of the private sector is stored in these cases for a reason. More competitive shooters use Pelican than any other case for a reason. If you’re looking for a way to keep your gear dry and secure Pelican should be at the top of your list. You can buy Pelican Cases in a wide range of sizes and prices from your local authorized Pelican dealer or online via Amazon here.
Bushnell, an industry leader in high-quality optics that are waterproof, fog-proof and shock proof, announced a complete re-engineering of the company’s popular Trophy line of hunting optics. In addition, Bushnell is now offering a new feature-laden Trophy Xtreme line of binoculars, riflescopes, spotting scopes and laser rangefinders for hunting, outdoor and birding enthusiasts.
Bushnell Trophy optics have been trusted for years, and the addition of the all-new Trophy Xtreme line provides even more performance for serious hunters and sport enthusiasts. Both lines will carry the Bushnell “No Questions Asked” Lifetime Warranty. Regardless of how these optics are broken, Bushnell has one response: “Yes, that’s covered.” The No Questions Asked Lifetime Warranty, launched in early 2016, applies to all riflescopes, binoculars and spotting scopes in the Trophy and Trophy Xtreme product families.
“We’re thrilled with the results of the new Trophy Xtreme and updated Trophy lines,” said Curtis Smith, Bushnell Product Director. “We’re delivering top-line performance at a great value to the customer. Plus, no matter what happens, we will stand behind these products, no questions asked.”
Both versions of binoculars offer fully multi-coated lenses in an armored chassis. The optics are waterproof, fogproof and built to take a beating while delivering best-in-class durability and clarity. Trophy Xtreme versions offer improved three-step eyecups to provide better fit and comfort, along with larger objective lenses and higher magnification.
The new Trophy riflescopes come in seven configurations and six reticle options for edge-to-edge clarity and best-in-class 91% light transmission. Bushnell’s exclusive Rainguard HD waterproofing and fogproof lenses put these scopes ahead of the competition. The Trophy Xtreme scopes feature 30mm tubes and 4x magnification ratios. They offer increased brightness and clearer images. Illuminated and long-range versions are also available.
The new TrophyXtreme spotting scopes are offered in 50mm or 60mm objective lenses, have up to 60x magnification and utilize a porro-prism design. Users will enjoy the compact tripod, window mount, waterproof hard-sided case and soft-sided case included with this spotter. All models boast 100 percent waterproof rubber armor construction.
Trophy Xtreme X30 Riflescopes
Difficulty ranging dark, non-reflective targets in low-light conditions is now a thing of the past, thanks to the new Full Spectrum Targeting technology found in both Trophy and Trophy Xtreme laser rangefinders. The 4x20mm Trophy laser rangefinder is rainproof, accurate to 1-yard and can reach out to a maximum distance of 850 yds. Opt for the Trophy Xtreme laser rangefinder and receive the added benefit of Angle Range Compensation (ARC) technology. ARC accounts for the steepness of the shot angle, giving shooters a true horizontal distance to the target for precise shot placement.
