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Brand New Russian Su-35 and PAK FA Turn Pentagon’s F-16 Into ‘Relic of the Past’

The F-16 Fighting Falcon has been a workhorse in the Pentagon’s arsenal, but Russia’s cutting-edge new aircraft, including the Sukhoi Su-35 and the Sukhoi PAK FA, have rendered the all-weather supersonic multirole aircraft, which has been in service since 1978, as “obsolete,” defense and national security writer Kyle Mizokami asserted.

The F-16 is “seriously outmatched by a new generation of Russian and Chinese fighters,” he wrote for the National Interest.

Mizokami named the Sukhoi Su-35 Flanker-E multirole air superiority fighter and the Sukhoi PAK FA fifth-generation stealth superiority fighter as a case in point. The Su-35, a heavily upgraded version of the Sukhoi Su-27, is a 4++ generation aircraft produced since 2007. The warplanes completed their first combat missions in Syria earlier this year.

“The Su-35 may not be stealthy, but it can detect and engage the F-16 before the F-16 can detect it, and this puts the American plane at a big disadvantage. In a one-on-one fight, the F-16 will probably not even be able to get the Su-35 into dogfighting range, where the smaller fighter’s legendary maneuverability would come into play,” Mizokami explained.

The gap between the F-16 and the Sukhoi PAK FA, also known as the T-50, is even more glaring. The cutting edge aircraft is the first operational aircraft in Russian service to use stealth technology. The PAK FA is currently undergoing testing and is expected to enter service with the Russian Air Force and the Russian Navy in 2018.

The fighter jet is meant to replace Russia’s aging Mikoyan MiG-29s and Sukhoi Su-27s.

PAK FA’s “stealthy design will ultimately mean F-16s won’t even detect their adversaries before they realize they are being targeted by beyond-visual-range guided missiles, launched by aircraft only visible on radar for the brief moment their internal weapons bay doors are open,” the analyst noted.

The F-16 could be upgraded to become more competitive, but the lack of stealth is the plane’s ultimate weakness when compared to other advanced aircraft.

“Thanks to PAK-FA and the J-20, [the F-16] days as a day-one frontline fighter are over. As the F-35 enters service with the United States and with its NATO and Asian allies, the F-16 begins its long, well-earned flight into the sunset,” Mizokami said.

 

Source Article from http://www.special-ops.org/20283/brand-new-russian-su-35-and-pak-fa-turn-pentagons-f-16-into-relic-of-the-past/

OffHand Gear Shooting Mat 

As a former sniper unit for a Sheriff’s Office SWAT team in eastern North Carolina for over a decade, I learned two simple things the hard way while behind a rifle for long periods of time during training and deployment. First you MUST be comfortable and second well organized. These days, I have the pleasure of being able to teach a new generation of precision rifle shooters as well as testing new firearms, optics, ammunition and equipment to aid in doing so. A few months ago, I discovered the NORM Shooting Mat by a company named OffHand Gear.

mat2

For those of you not familiar with OffHand Gear, this is a great small business that started in Mesa, Arizona back in 2012 marketing what Sandi Keller, the owner, calls “sassy apparel & functional gear for the female gun enthusiast.” This astute business woman grew tired of subpar equipment painted pink being the only thing marketed to women and sought out to not only change the women’s market but offer all shooters the best gear possible at the company grew. As the proud husband of a state leader here in Florida for the national ladies’ not-for-profit shooting organization, The Well Armed Woman, founded by Sandi’s good friend, Carrie Lightfoot, naturally this company has been on my radar for some time. (Either growth trend recognizing gun writer or just smart husband, you decide.)

mat1

The NORM

With the recent release of the NORM or “No Ordinary Range Mat”, OffHand Gear is set to cross over into the mainstream with not only female rifle shooters, but men as well. Over the summer I had the pleasure of testing the NORM while working on both rifle reviews and training. Most of the testing occurred at our secluded training grounds in North Florida affectionately known as “The Swamp” where the terrain can range from loose gravel to damp grassy tree lines and the occasional hard pack dirt roadways.

When the shooting mat arrived at my door, I immediately liked how flat the entire mat folded to fit into the thin shipping box. While the mat’s padding felt cushiony, the thin profile initially concerned me as to how comfortable it would be while shooting off of it in the prone position. Due to the summer tropical storms that roll through Florida during the summer, it looked like I would have to wait to find out. Thankfully, the clouds parted a few days afterwards and I had a great opportunity to start field testing.

mat9

Upon my arrival at “The Swamp”, I began setting up my shooting position by unrolling the NORM in a grassy clearing near the tree line over a few small exposed roots that would normally dig into my hips or chest when shooting prone. As I settled into position behind the rifle, I remember feeling like I had just stretched out on a bedroll while camping. The mat was comfortable and did a great job protecting me from the underlying roots popping up through the grass. The long length of the 75” mat fit me well while I feeling like I had all the room in the world to my left and right to rest my range finder, ammunition and even a laptop. (Yes, laptop, more on that in a future article.) The main body of the NORM measured 32” across with the fold out wings gave an additional 12” of vertical space to each side.

mat7

As a dedicated long range shooter, I enjoyed how the carry handle locates itself in the perfect to position to double as a bi-pod stop. With the bipod deployed into the loop, it did a great job anchoring the rifle in order to “load” the bipod to create enough tension between rifle and shoulder to prevent any wiggle or slipping while breaking my shots. When the mat is folded back up, the handles are well placed to strap together and balance the package evenly during carry. If the mat has to be carried longer distances, the matching shoulder strap offers a very comfortable carry option as well.

The entire main 30” work space of the shooting mat is covered in a soft Velcro surface for attaching handy additions offered by OffHand Gear such as a mesh bag for holding spent brass and my personal favorite, the rear shooting rest bag. Much like my old sniper’s “sand sock”, the rear shooting bag offers a pliable, lightweight bag filled with plastic beards to secure under the toe of the rifle stock. This offers for quick elevation changes by only using the movement of squeezing or releasing the bag with your hand quietly and efficiently.

Specifications 

Kryptek Fabric (500 Denier Cordura utilizes durability and water resistance).

◦Bi-pod stop that doubles as a carry handle

◦Ambidextrous adjustable shoulder sling for easy carrying.

◦Extra-long (75″) & wide (32″) with fold out wings (added 12″).

◦Dense foam padding the entire length and wings.

◦Soft, loop fabric on upper 30″ of mat for added comfort and to attach accessories.

◦Fan-fold design makes for easy setup and storage without curling up while in use.

Final Thoughts

My experience with OffHand Gear’s NORM was a very good one. I enjoyed the tough 500 Denier Cordura construction in the very attractive Kryptek Typhoon pattern. This modern age camo option has been popular over the past year in the industry. My only comment on this currently being the only color option is heat retention. Black is usually not a top choice when shooting in the hot Florida sun throughout the summer months. I am eager to see lighter color options as the product has more time on the market.

Retailing for $229 US for the mat alone and $255.95 US as a package including the mesh bag for spent brass and handy rear rifle bag, the NORM is fairly priced for such a high quality shooting mat. Along with color options, I am eager to see how the accessory options grow in the future as well. This shooting mat offers an excellent platform to anchor a wealth of needed tools for long distance shoot such as a possible DOPE book pocket, spare ammo pocket, map pocket or cleaning kit bag just for starters.

Overall, I highly recommend the NORM shooting mat to everyone. I have always respected what OffHand Gear has set out to do in regards to leveling the playing field in the shooting industry for women and proud to work with them at any level. I clearly foresee their shooting mat becoming a crossover success for all ages and gender as time moves forward. To learn more about Sandi and her awesome team, check them out at www.offhandgear.com.

Source Article from http://www.thegearlocker.net/2016/09/offhand-gear-shooting-mat/

Liberty Announces New 30-06 Springfield Is Shipping

Liberty Ammunition’s newest hunting round from its Animal Instinct line, the 30-06 Springfield, is now shipping. The 30-06 Springfield exits a rifle at velocities greater than 3,500 FPS with a muzzle energy greater than 2,700 ft./lbs.

“We are pleased to release the 30-06 Springfield round right in time for hunting season. We think hunters of all levels will enjoy the reduced recoil and match grade accuracy and most of all the increased lethality of our Animal Instinct line. ” said Matt Phillips, VP of sales and marketing for Liberty Ammunition.

Although the 30-06 Springfield is known for being a classic hunting round, there’s nothing old-school about Liberty’s new cartridge. This state-of-the-art round boasts a lead-free copper-monolithic fragmenting hollowpoint design that gives hunters an edge when they’re out in the field.

Source Article from http://www.shootingsportsretailer.com/2016/09/09/liberty-announces-new-30-06-springfield-shipping/

We Like Shooting 161 – Damn this internet!

Welcome to the We Like Shooting show, Episode 161 – tonight we’ll talk about howling raven, lucid L5 and more!

Steyr AUG 9 Para

The Steyr AUG rifle was the first “modular” design: the barrel, receiver, firing mechanism can all be changed to configure the weapon into whatever sort of rifle is wanted. By an extension of this principle, Steyr pioneered a trend which is now becoming more common, of converting what is basically a locked-breech rifle into a blowback submachine gun.

The Steyr AUG 9 Para is based on the standard AUG rifle by changing the barrel for one of 9 mm caliber; changing the bolt assembly for a simple blowback unit; and changing the magazine housing by fitting an adapter to take a narrower magazine holding the 9 mm Parabellum pistol cartridge.

The result is a submachine gun with a longer barrel than normal for this type of weapon, and one which fires from a closed bolt. Both these features improve accuracy, and the longer barrel produces a rather higher muzzle velocity than is usual in this caliber.

The “closed bolt” feature means that when the magazine is inserted and the cocking handle pulled back and released, the bolt runs forward and chambers a cartridge, leaving the hammer cocked ready to fire. On pulling the trigger in the usual type of submachine gun, the bolt runs forward, loads the chamber and then fires. There is, therefore, a sudden shift of balance due to the movement of the bolt and, as a result, a first-round hit is unlikely. With the AUG 9 Para, pulling the trigger simply releases the hammer; nothing else moves and the weapon stays steady at the aim so that first-round hits are the rule rather than the exception.

The company originally marketed a conversion kit, allowing anyone with an AUG to convert it to a submachine gun. Later, however, this was withdrawn and only brand-new weapons were sold, since it appeared that even a simple conversion was beyond the skill of some users.

A separate barrel fitted with an efficient silencer is also available; this can be exchanged for the normal barrel by simply pressing a catch and twisting the front handle sideways to unlock the interrupted lugs of the barrel from the receiver. As with the rifle, the basic model has a carrying handle with a low-power optical sight, but it is possible to change the receiver to one with a sight mount and thus fit night vision or other specialist sights.

Technical specifications of Steyr AUG 9 Para submachine gun

Manufacturer: Steyr-Mannlicher GmbH, Steyr, Austria
Type: Blowback, selective fire
Caliber: 9 mm Parabellum
Barrel: 16.5 in (420 mm)
Weight (empty): 7.25 lbs (3.3 kg)
Magazine capacity: 25 or 32 rounds
Cyclic rate of fire: 650-750 rounds per minute

Source Article from http://www.special-ops.org/20164/steyr-aug-9-para/

SunJack 14W Solar Charger with 8000mAh Battery Review

From our phones to digital watches, GPS and just about everything else electronics are a vital part of our lives. Many of us have outlets dedicated to charging a wide range of devices in our kitchens and bedrooms. What do you do when you’re out in the woods, in the middle of a power outage or god forbid struggling to connect to loved ones after a disaster.

Sunjack has developed a solution that works for that long day on the range, the trip to the woods or the emergency power source during a disaster. The SunJack 14W+8000mAh Battery system is what you need when you’re far from an outlet.

The system includes:Sunjack 14W 800mAH Review

  1. 4 solar panels that fold out from what looks a Trapper Keeper.
  2. On the back of the panels is a mesh zippered pocket with 2 USB ports
  3. 8000mAh battery.
  4. 2 carabineers to mount the panels facing the sun.
  5. 1 mini USB charging cable (for the battery)

What are Watts and mAh?

To put Watts and mAh into perspective a small iPhone charger is 5W with the larger Ipad charger is 12W think of this as the amount of energy that is being transferred at a time. mAh represents the volume of power that is stored. The 8000mAh is enough to fully charge 4 iPhones or 1 tablet based on it’s specs. I found it charged my iPhone 6 twice before it depleted the battery when not attached to the solar panel.

Charging ratings on solar panels is based on the full sun so you want to make sure that any panel you purchase is at least 30-40% more than your required drain. It is best to go 100% more if possible. With this in mind, if tablets are your primary concern, you might want to go with the larger 20W 16000mAh version.

What’s That Mean to Me?

Sunjack 14W 800mAH charging in grassOur usage during testing was for powering my cell phone as well as charging up a GoPro during long trips to the range documenting a review and camping . For these purposes, the panel worked fantastically. With 2 ports attached to the solar panel, you can direct charge a device as well as the 8000mAh battery. The Battery is removable so after a full charge, you can take the battery with you to use on the go.

Some things to note, the folding solar panels are black and designed to be laid in the sun so if you lay your phone on top of it while charging it will get hot. I mean really hot, in my first test I accidentally activated my phone’s safety shut down. This is easily fixed by placing the phone under the panels flap keeping it shaded but it is something you need to be aware of. The rear mesh pouch is perfect for this, you can move around while charging without losing your device or getting tangled in cords.

The Sunjack website claims that the 8000mAh battery will charge in 5 hours. This is based on the full and optimized sun. In the real world of the cold north, we found this to take closer to 7 hours. However, even 7 hours to charge a battery that will charge 4 phones is damn impressive when outlets are not an option. Charging of devices from either the panel or the battery was in line with wall charger times which is really impressive for such a small device.

Portable For On The Go

Sunjack 14W 800mAH Review on a bike

For those of you on the move the Gallery section of Sunjcak shows plenty of people walking around with the panels carabineered to their backpacks, or attached to their bikes and even climbing equipment.

SunJack 14W Solar Charger 8000mAh Battery ReviewThe battery pack that comes with the system is also capable of being charged via a wall jack. While this sort of defeats the purpose it makes it easy to pre-charge the battery so that your not relying on the solar panels alone to get you through the day for your devices as well as charging the battery.

The long cycle of 1000 charges makes this battery ideal for a long usage life. This makes the Sunjack the ideal solution for both regular campers and preppers who need to know the battery will work when they need it. The battery will hold a charge for 3 months when in storage. This 3-month charge life cycle is an issue for long term bug out bag storage if you’re counting on the battery and not the charging panel. Not a huge deal as you will have the solar panel to charge it from but something to be aware of.

Durability

SunJack 14W Solar Charger 8000mAh Battery ReviewAs for durability testing, the kit was in my range/class Tupperware with armor, ammo and lots of other things getting banged around. It was exposed to light rain when I left it on the hood of my car and forgot about it and it was dropped from about 4 ft twice in a closed state. This is far from durability testing but it is inline with typical abuse for a device like this. The case itself is black and showed dirt fast but no harm has come to the battery or panels as of yet. If that changes we will update the review.

Conclusion

The Sunjack 14W+8000mAh Solar panel plus battery system is affordable and of a better quality than it’s cheaper competitors. A quick look on Amazon will net you several look-alike options in the 20-21W range. One look at the reviews will show you that these net 14-15 Watts with complaints of breakage or poor solar conversion. The Sunjack boasts 92% of its 215 reviews at 5 stars and an overall score of 4.5 stars.

If your looking for a quality solution to power you on the go we suggest the Sunjack series of solar charges. You can find you’re here: http://www.sunjack.com/collections/shop-portable-power with the 14W version we reviewed listed at $139.00.

Luth-AR Wins Premium Accessory Of The Year

 

The Industry Choice Awards has presented Luth-AR with the Premium Accessory of the Year award for its MBA-3 Modular Buttstock Assembly. The MBA-3 is the latest version of the innovative MBA line of buttstocks, which are designed for AR-15 Carbines.

The MBA-3 adds an adjustable cheek rest, additional length of pull and a fully adjustable 3-Axis Butt Plate in a lightweight buttstock. It’s made from a strong glass that’s filled with nylon and provides multiple sling attachment points and a Picatinny rail to add a mono-pod and other accessories. The MBA-3 and MBA-4 are both designed to work with both Mil-Spec and commercial carbine buffer tubes.

Deciding the winner, according to the Firearms Industry Choice Award website, is done through ” a hands-on, unbiased, multi-day testing and evaluation phase, performed by some of the most influential people in the business – the consumers.”

For more information, visit www.Luth-AR.com.

Source Article from http://www.shootingsportsretailer.com/2016/09/12/2596/

Lockheed Martin-Led Team Launches Future USS WICHITA

The Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT)-led industry team launched the 13th Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) into the Menominee River at the Fincantieri Marinette Marine shipyard on Sept. 17.

Ship sponsor, Kate Lehrer, christened LCS 13, the future USS Wichita, in Navy tradition by breaking a champagne bottle across the ship’s bow just prior to the launch.

“It is an honor and privilege to serve as the sponsor of the future USS Wichita and to be a part of this major milestone in the ship’s journey towards joining the great U.S. Navy fleet,” Lehrer said.

“I look forward and to an ongoing relationship with Wichita’s future crews and their families throughout the ship’s service.”

LCS 13 will undergo additional outfitting and testing at Fincantieri Marinette Marine before the ship’s anticipated delivery next year.

“The christening and launch of LCS 13 marks an important step in her journey towards joining the fleet,” said Joe North, vice president of Littoral Ships and Systems. “The Freedom-variant LCS plays a critical role in the U.S. Navy’s maritime security strategy, and we are committed to getting LCS 13 and her highly capable sister ships into combatant commanders’ hands as quickly as possible.”

The Lockheed Martin-led industry team is currently in full-rate production of the Freedom-variant, with six ships under construction at Fincantieri Marinette Marine and three more in long-lead material procurement. The ship’s design and open architecture allows the Navy to rapidly acquire and deploy a fleet of highly flexible and capable ships at a fraction of the cost of other platforms.

“Fincantieri Marinette Marine is proud to christen and launch another Freedom-variant warship that will enable our Navy to carry out its missions where and when needed,” said Jan Allman, Fincantieri Marinette Marine president and CEO. “We continue to optimize our production processes and leverage the craftsmanship and skills of our employees to produce these high quality vessels for our sailors.”

LCS 13 will be the third U.S. Navy ship named USS Wichita. Previous ships to bear the name included a World War II heavy cruiser (CA-45) and a Wichita-class Replenishment Oiler (AOR-1).

The Lockheed Martin-led LCS team is comprised of shipbuilder Fincantieri Marinette Marine, naval architect Gibbs & Cox, and more than 500 suppliers in 37 states. The Freedom-variant’s steel monohull is based on a proven, survivable design recognized for its stability and reliability. With 40 percent reconfigurable shipboard space, the hull is ideally suited to accommodate additional lethality and survivability upgrades associated with the Freedom-variant Frigate.

Source Article from http://www.special-ops.org/20225/lockheed-martin-led-team-launches-future-uss-wichita/

Friends Of Pat Memorial Weekend

Pat Roger’s is one of those men who exemplified what America is about. Even if you have not trained with Pat, chances are that you have been influenced by his techniques at some point. His work with Gunsite has become the foundation used by most modern trainers.

On May 4th, 2016 Pat left this world to join the warriors he trained. Like his brothers and sisters before he fought alongside going back to 1963 as a Marine right through the week before his death. Few people will ever leave their mark on our Community that Pat did.

To celebrate his life rather than mourn his passing EAG, The FOP of Ohio, the Alliance Police Range and countless other trainers and companies gathered together for a day of shooting and training followed by a day of celebration.

To give you an idea of how involved this event was here is just some of the instructors listed on the event.

  • John Spears
    Friends Of Pat Memorial Weekend
    Matt Prime sees you.
    Photo Credit: J.W. Ramp Buy a Print
  • Steve Fisher
  • Presscheck Consulting
  • Jose Gordon
  • Chappy
  • Bill Peterson
  • CLEER Medical
  • Jeff Gonzales
  • Matt Jacques
  • Freddy Blish

EAG now headed by John Chapman (Chappy) and John Spears with the help of John Weyer of Alliance were instrumental in developing the juggling act required to simultaneously run 2-3 events per time slot as well as secure the funding and support of numerous industry companies.

Here are just a few of the great companies who made this event possible.

  • The Alliance Police Department Training Division
    Friends Of Pat Memorial Weekend
    P&S Mods represent.
    Photo Credit: J.W. Ramp Buy a Print
  • Blue Force Gear
  • Bravo Company Manufacturing (BCM)
  • Tango Down
  • Raven Concealment Systems
  • Magpul
  • Beretta USA
  • AT Armor
  • Velocity Systems
  • Euro Optics
  • Team Wendy
  • Austere Provisions
  • Gunsite
  • and many others.

Special thanks must also be given to Joe Weyer of The Alliance Police Training Division and his entire SRT team for their weeks of work leading up to the event and his unimaginable patience in dealing with the amount of involved in shuttling people, managing vendors, classes and more to make this event appear to go seamlessly.

The training day kicked off early with students arriving as early as 7am to check in and get set for the safety brief. From there, students could break off into groups for the various training and seminars or congregate and chat with like minded individuals.

Friends Of Pat Memorial Weekend
what’s your excuse to not train?
Photo Credit: J.W. Ramp Buy a Print

The day continued without a hitch as instructors rotated through the various ranges to offer instruction to those who attended. For me personally, the best part of the event was seeing so many people from as far as Alaska to Florida gather together and discuss the effect Pat Rogers had on their lives. Getting a chance to talk with top-tier Police and Military trained personnel as well as responsible CPL holders who trained with Pat and Company CEO’s like Ashley of Blue Force or Michael of Raven Concealment as well as really well-informed product experts like John and Cameron at Aimpoint was such a unique opportunity.

With night courses classes that went well into the evening covering the area in gun smoke and the smell of powder the entire range smelled like a manly candle. With these late night activities, the BBQ and raffle were held starting at 1300 on Sunday giving us all time to recoup.

The BBQ on Sunday was just incredible. From the bourbon being shared to the incredible smoked meats. Blue Force Gear who has been a huge part of the growth of the Alliance Range unveiled their new classroom and dedicated it with a bronze plaque commemorating Pat.

Friends Of Pat Memorial Weekend
Just part of the raffle table. Photo Credit: J.W. Ramp Buy a Print

Following the lunch, the door prizes, raffle, and charity auction was held. Thousands of dollars in products were donated by the previously listed sponsors and more. Those donations resulted in over $15,000 being donated to Pat’s favorite industry specific charities.

Friends Of Pat Memorial Weekend
John Chapman teaching in the shoot house.
Photo Credit: J.W. Ramp Buy a Print

John Spears who has taken over Pat’s training company EAG in partnership with Chappy shared with the group some of the amazing highlight’s of Pats life that reminded us all of not just how important Pat was to us but how big of a part he played in events behind the scenes.

At the end of the speeches and as the day came to a close we received the news we had all been waiting for. Chappy announced to much applause that this even would be the first in a series of annual events held in Pat’s honor.

If you were at the event I hope we had a chance to talk. If not I will see you next year. If you did not make the even this year be sure to put it on your calendar for next year. We thank all those who volunteered time or money to make this event a success and look forward to seeing you all again soon.

 

Source Article from http://248shooter.com/index.php/friends-of-pat-memorial-weekend/

We Like Shooting 163 – On a scale of 1 to Hank

Welcome to the We Like Shooting show, Episode 163 – tonight we’ll talk about home made leather holsters, Desert Tech, Backup Tactical, the H&K VP9 Tactical, Black Guns Matter, bullpup shoot and more!

Founder of Black Guns Matter

You can find more about Maj Toure here

Our cast for episode 163 is Shawn Herrin, Aaron Krieger, Savage1r, Jeremy Pozderac, Nick Lynch! We are also joined by Ava Flanell from Elite Firearms & Training

If you carry or use a gun to protect yourself an/or your family then you need Second Call Defense. They handle what comes after the trigger is pulled. Don’t wait until it’s too late. Get Second Call Defense today!

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Reality based accessories that solve problems! Manticore Arms makes parts for your fighting rifles, whether it’s an AK, AR-15, AUG, Tavor, CZ Scorpion Evo or even something else!

Get 10% off at Manticore Arms with code WLS10!

Brought to you by DEZ Tactical Arms

Where we talk about the stuff we have, the stuff that we want and the stuff that we need!

Rifles and accessories for the AR-15 lover! Whether you need a full rifle or just parts to build one DEZ has your back. High quality, match grade and most parts are made in house.

Get 10% off at DEZ Tactical Arms with code WLSPATRON!

The absolute best ammo we’ve shot! Match grade primers, match grade powder, virgin brass and top quality projectiles, at range ammo prices. You have got to see it to believe it!

Get $5 off at JC Arms and Ammunition with code WLS5OFF!

Brought to you by JC Arms & Ammunition

Savage1r goes over the news of the day relating to guns, rights and more!

Learn how to be a gunsmith in the comfort of your own home. Distance learning that gives you tools and a gun in a box to build as you learn! Whether you want to get more acquianted with your AR-15 or want an associates degree, SDI is the place for you.

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I saw the light, and it was bright

by lazorazor on Sep 09, 2016
RATING: ★★★★★

I saw you guys at the bullpup shoot, well most of you, I mean I saw so much of Aaron I assumed he was the whole cast of the show. Shawn, bro it was great to meet you, down to earth and funny. Ava, wow, just wow. Maybe next year Jeremy, Nick and Savage could come.

Heard show for the first time

by Sensable Samuel on Sep 09, 2016
RATING: ★★★★★

When I first listened to the WLS Show I thought someone was fisting me in my ear holes, at that point I knew I should have turned this show off, but then I just kept the ride going and well, it turns out to be one of my favorite shows. Whether it is Aaron interrupting someone to say the most asinine yet funny random thing, Savage nasally talking about the most irrelivant guns out there. Nick and his deafening silence, Jeremy and his homoerotic life choice, Ava and her… uhm, what does she do? Also Sean, the guy who holds this team together with his giant ears, like bookends to his face. Good stuff, keep it up.

Merica Ya’ll

by trueblewyou on Sep 09, 2016
RATING: ★★★★★

As a supporter of the log cabin republicans, I am so proud to listen to this show, and to feel welcomed. When I first started listening back in episode 132 my love of guns were reaffirmed, I found a group of people that I that made me feel like I was one of them, especially when my gaydar went off the first time I heard Jeremy talk. I know a bear when I hear one, thanks, keep up the good work, See you guys on Itunes and Jeremy on grinder.

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Source: https://welikeshooting.com/show/163/

On Myths and Legends: Famous & Infamous Firearms. The Garand and the M16

“Very bright was that sword when it was made whole again; the light of the sun shone redly in it, and the light of the moon shone cold, and its edge was hard and keen. And Aragorn gave it a new name and called it Andúril, Flame of the West.”
-J.R.R. Tolkien

“In my opinion, the M1 rifle is the greatest battle implement ever devised.”
-Gen. George S. Patton, USA

This topic has always held my interest, on how a weapon attains a mythical status and why it held or holds that place. Whether famous or infamous weapons always generate a “common knowledge” legend around them that rarely holds up under scrutiny so here I am doing some digging. For each of these Myth and Legends articles, I want to take on a “pedestal” and a maligned weapon.

On the Pedestal of Legend today is the M1 Garand rifle of WWII fame (as if you couldn’t guess by Patton’s quote above). I want to delve in and compare it to a rifle that had to earn its stripes kicking and screaming against the conventional wisdom (which the Garand design was part of) and many a controversy… The M16/M4.

So what I want to get into with this and future posts are the legends and the raw reliability of the weapons.

First up is Patton’s favorite Implement of the Infantry

On Myths and Legends: Famous & Infamous Firearms. The Garand and the M16

An endless supply of anecdotes, tall tales, conventional wisdom, heroic accounts, and digital ink can be found on the rifle of John C. Garand (pronounced ɡəˈrænd) but for brevity what the 1928 design did was introduce the auto-loading/semi-automatic battle rifle platform into the mainstream military thought process. It took 8 years for the rifle to be built up and converted for the U.S. Military’s desire to keep the 30-06 round as standard alongside the massive inventory of M1903s taking the same ammunition. It was tested and evaluated, then fielded to great effect with G.I’s, cementing it into its iconic U.S. WWII weapon image, although in reality many different weapons were used.

But what did those raw numbers look like? How did the Garand stack up for real?

The November 1940 test conducted by the United States Marine Corps used to evaluate the weapon for adoption sheds some light the Garand’s real world performance.

Over 12,000 rounds, in various adverse conditions, and with 40 expert qualified riflemen they picked the Garand. The testers noted that it exhibited the best overall performance and easy of use to replace the 30 year veteran M1903’s.

The rifles themselves over those 12,000 rounds had 1,480 stoppages and 49 failures. That’s a rate of 12.3% or about 1 out of every 9 rounds.

Yes, you read that correctly the U.S. Military fielded a rifle that stopped shooting and cycling normally about every 9 shots… and this was excellent for the time.

Imagine having to clear a “jam” on your AR, AK, or Glock every 9 shots… not a picture of flawless reliability.

However, in context the 12.3% was fantastic. It really was one of the greatest battle implements designed to date because of the general increase in individual soldier firepower. You take the standard soldier or marine with an M1903 and they could engage with 10, maybe 15 rounds in a minute. The Garand pushed that number to 50 and clearing a stoppage on the Garand was neither overly difficult nor negated that vastly superior fire rate. Each U.S. GI is now, mathematically, four conventionally bolt action equipped soldiers (which describes every other country’s GI of the time period). These changes came about without significantly altering the shot to shot lethality and effective range of the GI’s either.

So was the M1 Garand the flawless master weapon? No *takes it off pedestal* but it was an exceptional upgrade to the current arsenal fielded by the U.S. at the time and fit the needs of the U.S. soldier extremely well. Even stopping 1 in every 9 shots.

Now we’ll switch gears and go to the “garbage bin”

On Myths and Legends: Famous & Infamous Firearms. The Garand and the M16

The M16 and M4 have had a checkered life in military service despite being the longest serving rifles in our history. From the stories of soldiers tossing M16’s into the swamps and jungles of Vietnam and acquiring an M14 or AK instead to the highly publicized Battle of Wanat where some blamed the M4 as a contributing factor to the high casualties suffered under that attack.

The 2007 Aberdeen rifle dust test was another allegedly terrible and more recent performance by the M4 showing it placed last by a wide margin against some newer competing weapon systems.

While Aberdeen was junk pseudo-science that men like Robert Scales (Retired Maj. Gen, US Army) used along with Wanat to try and convince the public and military that the M16 and M4 were always bad weapons. Some useable data did come out of the test.

For example the stoppage rate. The highest recorded stoppage rate was… 1.4% and that was documented to be four times higher than any previous iteration of the 6,000 round test averaged over 10 rifles (60,000 total rounds) making the prior and likely more accurate rate 0.35% right in line with the weapons it was tested against (The XM8, HK416, and SCAR)

Furthermore looking the facts from Wanat all the way back to Vietnam the M4 and M16 have performed admirably when used properly. In Wanat, the guns were stressed to the extreme and reported failures were not a significant factor in the fight nor were the M4s the only weapons systems to fail out due to extremely high fire rates. In Vietnam, the military literally instructed their soldiers to do the wrong thing with the weapons and used improper ammunition.

So for our Myth and Legend this article. The Legend of the Garand rifle is humbled to a grand piece of advancing technology great for its era but long surpassed today by advances. The Myth of the horrendous and irredeemable M16 and M4 rifles doesn’t stand up to the sniff test either with a reliability rate (at worst recorded) of nine times higher than the Garand some I’ve spoken with say we should still be fielding.

This has been fun. What guns should I dig into next?

Source Article from http://248shooter.com/index.php/myths-legends-famous-infamous-firearms-garand-m16/

We Like Shooting 162 – In memory of Merlin

Welcome to the We Like Shooting show, Episode 162 – tonight we’ll talk about Hatfield shotguns, lightweight 308 AR, family shooting, Kalashnikov Concern, Keltec, Faxon Firearms and more!

director at Faxon Firearms, Marine who Discovered Common Sense Again, Avid Amatuer 3-Gunner, and Good Guy with Bad Jokes

You can find more about Nathan Schueth here

Our cast for episode 162 is Shawn Herrin, Aaron Krieger, Savage1r, Jeremy Pozderac, Nick Lynch! We are also joined by Ava Flanell from Elite Firearms & Training

If you carry or use a gun to protect yourself an/or your family then you need Second Call Defense. They handle what comes after the trigger is pulled. Don’t wait until it’s too late. Get Second Call Defense today!

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Where we talk about the stuff we have, the stuff that we want and the stuff that we need!

Rifles and accessories for the AR-15 lover! Whether you need a full rifle or just parts to build one DEZ has your back. High quality, match grade and most parts are made in house.

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The absolute best ammo we’ve shot! Match grade primers, match grade powder, virgin brass and top quality projectiles, at range ammo prices. You have got to see it to believe it!

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Savage1r goes over the news of the day relating to guns, rights and more!

Learn how to be a gunsmith in the comfort of your own home. Distance learning that gives you tools and a gun in a box to build as you learn! Whether you want to get more acquianted with your AR-15 or want an associates degree, SDI is the place for you.

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If you’re into guns and not listening to this show, you need to reevaluate your life choices

by emerilnut on Sep 09, 2016
RATING: ★★★★★

Found this show about 2 years ago, and I listen every week. I find myself laughing more than learning when I listen, but that’s because I know everything *wink*. From Jeremy’s rants to Aaron interrupting and stopping any kind of momentum any guest or host could have with a joke or story, it’s all great in between. My favorite moment? When Jeremy asked that guest if he had just done some lines of coke or something. I almost had an accident on the highway when I heard that. Shawn, please lose some weight. We worry about you, brah. Aaron, we all lost hope for you some time ago, but we look forward to the story when you lose your feet. Savage, your hard-on for Canick is unbecoming. Just go Glock and enjoy the real thing, buddy. Jeremy, you rock. Nick, you’re weird. Seriously, though, because of this show I’m a Second Call Defense member, and I’ve had shawarma and love it. Keep up the great show, guys.

#lilbackagain

by Foreigngunperson3000 on Sep 09, 2016
RATING: ★★★★★

Great podcast, but do we have to go through this again? #lilbackagain

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Source: https://welikeshooting.com/show/162/

Browning Adds Small Gauges To 725 Line

 

Browning has expanded its Citori 725 Sporting and Field over/under lineup to include 28 gauge and 410 models for 2016. Both feature Browning’s Fire Lite Mechanical Trigger system that provides a light, crisp trigger pull with minimal overtravel.

Citori 725 Sporting models will be offered with 30- or 32-inch ventilated rib barrel lengths and supplied with five extended Standard Invector choke tubes. The receiver has a silver nitride finish with gold accented engraving. Stock and forearm are Grade III/IV walnut with gloss oil finish. Weight for the new Citori 725 Sporting small gauges is 7 pounds, 4 ouches to 7 pounds. 7 ounces.

The new Citori 725 Field small gauge models will feature a silver nitride finish receiver with accented, high-relief engraving. Stock and forearm are Grade II/III walnut with close radius pistol grip in gloss oil finish. Available with 26- or 28-inch ventilated rib barrels, weight is 7 pounds to 7 pounds, 3 ounces

MSRP: $2,539.99 (Field), $3,199.99 (Sport)

For more information on Browning products, please visit the website at www.browning.com.

Source Article from http://www.shootingsportsretailer.com/2016/09/19/browning-adds-small-gauges-725-line/

US Air Force drops vicious next gen ‘smart’ missile from B-52 bomber

The US Air Force has a new weapon at its disposal that officials believe will substantially increase the lethality of the B-52 Statofortress long-range bomber.

This week the US Air Force dropped three Joint Attack Surface Standoff (JASSM) missiles from a B-52 Statofortress long-range heavy bomber demonstrating the aircraft’s ability to launch the JASSM from the Conventional Rotary Launcher (CRL) of the warplane’s internal weapons bay.

The JASSM is explained on Lockheed Martin’s website as a “long-range, conventional, air-to-ground, precision standoff missile” used by the United States and allied forces. The weapon is “designed to destroy high-value, well-defended, fixed and relocatable targets.

The weapon is unique because of its standoff range which the weapons developer says “keeps aircrews well out of danger from hostile air defense systems” allowing US forces to inflict maximum damage against enemy targets without compromising personnel security.

The missile has an operational range of over 230 miles (370km) carrying a 1000 pound (450kg) warhead towards its target a supersonic speed. The unit cost of a single Joint Attack Surface Standoff missile is $700,000 a piece suggesting that the JASSM will be reserved solely for high-value military targets.

The B-52 Statofortress currently can carry as many as 12 JASSMs on its wing pylons, but the integration of the CRL in the internal weapons bay allows the aircraft to hold an additional eight missiles increasing the deadly force of the B-52s JASSM payload by more than 60% according to the United States Air Force.

The test firing of the JASSM from a B-52 occurred near the Wright-Patterson Air Base in Ohio on Monday, August 22nd. The test required substantial upgrades to the JASSM’s software in addition to hardware updates to the B-52’s internal rotary launcher according to a USAF spokesperson who spoke with defense publication IHS Jane’s Defence.

Source Article from http://www.special-ops.org/19907/us-air-force-drops-vicious-next-gen-smart-missile-from-b-52-bomber/

Mossberg Introduces 590A1, 500 Compact Cruiser

O.F. Mossberg and Sons, Inc. is pleased to offer new sub-compact NFA firearms, based on its time-proven 12-gauge 590A1 and 500 pump-actions. Classified by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) as AOWs (Any Other Weapon), the 590A1/500 Compact Cruiser AOWs require a $5 tax stamp for transfer, as well as the required NFA transfer paperwork. Two 12-gauge, 3-inch sub-compact versions are available with all of the standard features of the 590A1/500 platform that millions worldwide have selected for personal defense and in service to our country.

The Compact Cruisers are built on Mossberg’s legendary 500 action, which passed the rigorous testing required to meet or exceed U.S. Armed Services Mil-Spec 3443 requirements — the only shotgun manufacturer to pass these endurance, accuracy and quality tests. The 590A1/500 AOWs are designed for smooth, reliable operation and feature non-binding twin action bars, positive steel-to-steel lock-up, an anti-jam elevator, and dual extractors. Their lightweight, anodized aluminum receivers provide for added durability and for ease of operation, by right or left-handed shooters, the Compact Cruiser AOWs have Mossberg’s universally-recognized, ambidextrous top-mounted safety.

Both the 590A1 and 500 feature the ATI T3 pistol grip, constructed of reinforced polymer and designed to absorb recoil energy before reaching the shooter’s hand. Less felt recoil reduces shooter discomfort and the time required to get back on target. The T3’s non-slip textured finish provides for a positive grip. Adding to the shooter’s comfort and ease of cycling, the Compact Cruiser AOWs have contoured polymer foregrips with a durable, webbed strap. The foregrip can be folded down, assisting in recoil reduction, or folded up against the magazine tube. Both the stock and foregrip feature a non-reflective black finish.

The 590A1 Compact Cruiser AOW (51664) has a 10.25-inch heavy-walled, cylinder bore barrel with front bead sight; convenient cleanout mag tube with 3+1 capacity, metal trigger guard, metal safety button and anodized aluminum receiver with Parkerized steel finishes. The 500 Compact Cruiser AOW (51697) features a 7½-inch cylinder bore barrel with front bead sight, 2+1 capacity, durable anodized finish on receiver and Parkerized finish on barrel and mag tube. MSRP: $910-$980.

Now Mossberg delivers its legendary pump-action reliability in a convenient sub-compact package. For more information on the 590A1 and 500 Compact Cruiser AOWs, please visit www.mossberg.com or your local Mossberg dealer.

Source: http://www.shootingsportsretailer.com/2016/09/02/mossberg-introduces-590a1-500-compact-cruiser/