Peak Case Semi-Custom Handguns and Rifle Cases

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August 14, 2016

You got that brand new gun, and you just started shooting 3 gun, or you plan to fly with a weapon. Now What? You can buy a cookie cutter pick and pluck foam kit to fit your gear, drop some mega cash on a custom solution or you can choose a semi-custom case that fits your needs and your budget.

Having struggled with soft pick and pluck foam, I will never go that route again. While I love my custom case, it’s not something that is affordable for many people. Semi-custom isn’t only affordable it offers an impressive set of advantages we will explore in this article.

What is Semi-Custom

Semi-custom cases are designed with a particular model gun like an Ar-15 or SIG MPX. From there they offer modular foam components that can be removed or added to accommodate different grip patterns, optics or stock lengths.

Each kit from Peak Case Company is thoughtfully developed to accommodate the most common accessories based on the targeted use. Options include the range handgun kit on rollers that modularly stacks, to the 3 gun 2 tier case. Each case offers many additional storage spaces for ammo, ear pro, eye pro, reusable desiccant and more.

Semi-custom Handgun cases, for example, will fit a broad range of gun options that fit tight enough to keep your guns safe but with wide enough tolerances it can be model agnostic.

Why Semi-Custom?

Price is a huge part of the why many people opt for semi-custom vs. fully custom. Top of the line options for multi-tiered 3 gun cases that fit an AR, Shotgun, 2 pistols and tons of accessories cost only $325 for the complete case and foam. Handgun options start much lower at only $89.

There is a bigger reason for me personally than price; it’s modular. With the reviews we do here, we often get guns on T&E that have to ship back. This means many of the weapons I travel with or have around are not permanent, and it’s not feasible to get custom cases for each.

Even on the guns I do own, we are constantly changing optics, lights and other gear based on new TTP’s, or reviews. Having the ability to move items around in the case yet still secure is vital. Based on the hard use and flights that my guns have to endure on a regular basis these cases need to be tough. Peak case meets and exceeds these requirements.

Why Peak Case?

We reached out to Peak Case after seeing positive feedback on their cases when I needed a handgun box for multiple guns and range kit that was in a hard case for inclement weather. The service was fast; the price was great, and the product was above what I expected.

If you decide to go for a custom case Peak Case Company also does those and is able to work of pictures and your measurements so you don’t need to be near the shop.

Peak Case Semi-Custom Rigid Handgun Case

The case we have been using is a Rigid Tool box kit with a 2 handgun semi-custom foam insert. The top layer holds desiccant, 2 pistol mags, 2 guns with a pass through, The lower layer fits three 50 round boxes of ammo up to .45 caliber with a larger cutout for eye pro or other misc items (we filled it with more ammo) and a spot for ear pro.

This case will stack on other Rigid Pro boxes such as their rolling range case if you want to bring more items to a match. The metal latch that is lockable, is a nice upgrade from many all resin cases. Like its more expensive competition it seals water tight and has a pressure relief valve.

The orange colored foam to match the Rigid Pro color scheme is bright and thick. It did not tear or rip like some of the cheaper foam on the market and is a tool quality material made for hard use. Being that Sentienl Concepts class almost always have some amount of rain I was really impressed to see how well the desiccant worked to keep my case from getting moist even after loading it with a wet gun.

This case receives our best in value award!

How to Win Yours

Tom, the owner of Peak Case, offered to do a giveaway for our readers. So not only can you buy direct from Peak Case via their website or ebay but you can enter to win a case of your choice up to $350. Via GAT Daily.

Be sure to visit them directly via their website, or give Tom a call to discuss your needs direct with the man himself.

Source Article from http://248shooter.com/index.php/peak-case-semi-custom-cases/

We Like Shooting 153 – Friend Zone

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We Like Shooting

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August 12, 2016

Welcome to the We Like Shooting show, Episode 153 – tonight we’ll talk about Magpul stocks, Zigana, JP, Hybrid Defensive Strategies and more!

FULL SHOW NOTES HERE

Our Guest is Stephen Stamboulieh from SDS Law

The machine gun lawyer. Involved with NJ carry case, NICS appeal cases (filed one last night); 5th Circuit says no machineguns; 3rd Circuit says no machineguns

You can find more about Stephen Stamboulieh here

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Source: https://welikeshooting.com/show/153/

Understanding The AR Trigger

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248 Shooter

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August 10, 2016

AR sales are still very strong, but there’s a lot of money to be made in upgrading the rifles that have already been sold. The best and easiest upgrade in my mind that any retail shop can do is to install a new trigger, which comes with a huge number of options and choices for the customer. Indeed, new trigger groups have been custom designed for tactical users, long-range shooters as well as competition shooters. And each has something unique to offer, and an upgraded trigger is an improvement that customers can see and feel immediately.

The AR-style rifle was designed with a single-stage trigger, and the vast majority of both commercial and Mil-Spec ARs will come standard this way. Mil-Spec triggers can have a pull weight that varies from 5½ to 8½ pounds. Typically, too many Mil-Spec triggers also have a gritty feel that makes it hard to tell when the trigger will break. A mediocre trigger can lead to poor trigger mechanics, bad habits and missed shots. People who have used only Mil-Spec triggers don’t know what they’re missing so to really make the sale you have to let people try what a custom trigger feels like.

Retailers should also be wary of, or perhaps grateful for, the home gunsmith. Yes, it is possible to improve the Mil-Spec AR trigger by smoothing the contact surfaces, but it is not a good idea. Standard AR triggers have a surface hardening treatment and unless someone is a very knowledgeable gunsmith with the right tools, there is a real risk of removing this hardening and significantly shortening the life of the trigger.

The best option is to replace the entire trigger with a quality after-market single- or two-stage trigger group.

Single-Stage vs. Two-Stage Triggers

In a standard two-stage trigger, which was common in U.S. military rifles before the M-16, the shooter will first encounter take-up, which is the distance the trigger travels with very light pressure before it starts to engage the sear and more pressure is needed. At this point the trigger is under only light spring pressure. When there is no spring pressure at all it is referred to as slack.

Creep or travel is the distance the trigger moves under tension after the take-up or slack is gone and before the trigger breaks and the gun fires. You don’t want too much creep but none is unsafe. You also don’t want any stacking, which is when the trigger weight increases during travel. After the gun fires you may experience overtravel, which is the distance that the trigger continues to move back after the gun fires. This can cause the shooter to overcompensate for the trigger squeeze and pull the gun off target.

On a single-stage trigger, there is no take-up or slack and the trigger is engaging the sear as soon as the trigger squeeze starts. A bad AR trigger with lots of creep can make a single-stage trigger feel almost like a two-stage trigger. Also, neither single-stage nor two-stage trigger systems effect the actual weight of the trigger or how much pressure is required on the trigger to fire the gun, but it can affect the perceived weight. The more pressure is required, the heavier the trigger, the harder it can become to shoot accurately, but too light a trigger can be unsafe particularly in high-stress tactical situations.

Many competitive shooters, especially those who got used to older model military rifles, will prefer a two-stage trigger because it allows the shooter to prep the trigger like on a Glock, for example. But since too much take-up can be a distraction, other shooters prefer single-stage triggers, which is the way the AR was originally designed to function. Regardless, all triggers should break clean or with no stacking or overtravel and it should feel smooth and even, not gritty.

Tactical Retailer spoke with David Clark of Trident Trigger, a manufacturer of AR trigger groups, about the elements of a quality trigger:

“First you want to minimize all creep, the distance you have to pull to have the trigger break. You want a trigger break that feels clean and crisp with no grit,” he said. “Some manufacturers will use lighter springs and hammers to reduce pull weight, however this also produces lighter firing pin strikes on the primer which can affect reliability especially in .308 and 7.62×39-chambered rifles or when using harder military primers in 5.56. Competition and 3-gun shooters value a distinct tactile and audible reset.

“I do want to mention that some of the large retailers we have been supplying to recently have mentioned that the matter of reliability is becoming a factor in trigger sales. A purchasing agent told me that of the triggers they carry, several are known for light primer strikes and on a few they cannot get through a 30-round magazine without light primer strikes. I mention this because reliability might be a weighted concern just as valid as pull weight.”

Drop-In vs. Standard-Trigger Groups

Replacement trigger kits are available in two basic varieties and manufacturers tend to only make one or the other. In the standard trigger kit, the springs, trigger, hammer and disconnector are all separate (just like on a Mil-Spec rifle). These have to be assembled and installed which is a fairly easy process. “Drop-in” trigger groups come entirely self-contained inside a casing and all the trigger parts are pre-assembled. For these all you have to do is remove the trigger and hammer pins, remove the old trigger parts, drop in the casing and replace the pins.

Some people prefer the drop-in trigger because they are marginally easier to install, but some prefer the standard trigger kits because they think the drop-in triggers are harder to clean or maintain. And it is true you have to replace the entire drop-in trigger if one part breaks and that they are harder to keep clean.

Also, anyone who owns a Colt AR should be aware of what size hammer and trigger pins are used. Colt ARs were made for a time to be non-Mil-Spec so upper and lower receivers as well and new trigger parts will not fit without the proper-sized pins. Many trigger-group manufacturers will offer both versions.

The installation procedure for all the triggers listed is fairly similar and each includes instructions with several manufacturers featuring online videos as well. All that is needed is a set of hammer and punch.

Start by ensuring that the rifle is unloaded then separate the upper and lower receivers, set the safety selector to the fire position and squeeze the trigger riding the hammer forward. Do not let the hammer slam against the rear of the magazine well.

It is not necessary to remove the safety selector to remove the trigger parts, but it does help and some manufacturers require that the safety selector be removed in order to install their trigger systems.

To remove the safety selector, first remove the pistol grip carefully to not lose the safety detent, which may come out, and the detent spring, which will definitely come out. Using a punch and hammer, drive out the trigger and hammer pins and remove while holding them from the top because they are under spring tension.

Next, install the trigger and the trigger pin — some kits use the old pins and some include replacement pins. Install the hammer and hammer pins and reinstall the safety selector, detent and detent spring and pistol grip. While most kits ask the installer to remove the pistol grip and safety selector it is thankfully not necessary on the vast majority of drop-in trigger systems, which vastly speeds up the installation to 5 minutes or less.

Trigger Pull Weights

Trigger kits from different manufacturers are available with different or occasionally adjustable pull weights as well as differently shaped triggers. According to Clark, selecting between a straight or more traditionally curved trigger is a matter of personal preference.

“We find that the newer military shooters prefer the flat, but most seem to like the the feel of the other,” he said. “We sell 4:1 curved over flat. Curved triggers are easier for the finger to index to the same spot and ergonomically correct for the finger pad. The flat triggers look cooler to many people but they tend to have a lower pull weight at the bottom than at the middle since it is a lever.”

While all after-market trigger kits should exhibit excellent dynamics and feel, they are nonetheless available in a variety of weights. Tactical users, especially any law enforcement customers who face significant scrutiny, are better served with a heavier trigger.

A heavier trigger is also better suited for gloved use where there is less tactile sensation. In this category 4½- to 6½-pound triggers seem to be appropriate, with the lower weight being the most popular. Those users who are more heavily focused on making precision or longer-range shots are going to prefer lighter triggers and even two-stage triggers.

We again asked Clark how his sales stack up and what customers seem to prefer.

“Our sales are pretty evenly divided between 3- and 4-pound trigger kits,” he said. “A good rule of thumb of advising customers is to ask how they are running their rifle. If you run iron sights, go with the 4-pound trigger; if you run a scope, go with the 3-pound trigger. This seems to work well for most people.”

A great way to close a sale on an upgraded trigger is to allow customers to try a standard trigger next to one of the custom after-market trigger groups. This can be done by having an upgraded trigger installed on a display rifle or with a trigger housing unit that allows the customer to pull the trigger and see the internal mechanics at the same time.

Many manufacturers can provide this to retailers, but only one come standard this way. The new Ruger Elite 452 AR-Trigger comes packaged in its own polymer AR housing complete with ergonomic pistol grip, thumb safety and triggerguard. The customer here gets the added benefit of all the extras Ruger offers and can get a real feel for the trigger.

There are a lot of accessories that customers buy because they look cool. In the case of an after-market trigger, your customers will feel cool and shoot better, which encourages people to shoot more often and even helps drive ammunition sales.

If you combine your sales with any sort of training you can also use target diagnostics to recommend an improved and lighter trigger to help customers improve the groups sizes.

Over the years we have tested a lot of AR rifles from a dozen manufacturers and almost every single one benefited substantially from a new trigger group. This not only made shooting more enjoyable but also produced a significant improvement in group sizes. Your customers will be thanking you for this one.

Source: http://www.shootingsportsretailer.com/2016/07/20/understanding-ar-trigger/

We Like Shooting 154 – Shhhhhhhh

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We Like Shooting

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August 7, 2016

Welcome to the We Like Shooting show, Episode 154 – tonight we’ll talk about Glock 34, Longbows, M16A2 clones, the Ruger SR22 Barrel kit, Hybrid Defensive Strategies sling, Rebel Silencers and more!

Click here for the show notes!

Owner of Rebel Silencers and 199Trust.com

You can find more about Eric Woodard here

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: iTunes | Android | RSS

Source: https://welikeshooting.com/show/154/

Why The X-95 Is The Tavor Of All Tavors

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248 Shooter

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August 5, 2016

Since its introduction to the U.S. market I have tested, retested, rearranged then again retested the Israeli Tavor rifle. It’s been to several schools — some practical, others more about the tactic of the day.

I commonly used it just to be contrary to the most vocal AR guru at the time. It was fun to watch AR after AR go down during hard training while the Tavor just kept on working. Experts and pundits kept telling me it would break. Well, it’s still running after well over 20,000 rounds — not bad for something the social media experts, even a few with real credentials, said would be a “fad” that would never work.

The Tavor does have its issues, mostly revolving around the handguard, but the aftermarket kicked in and dealt with many of them. Never enough to please the naysayers, it became very handy for those willing to look outside the AR box.

But when the Tavor X-95 was introduced it looked to have some serious changes designed to deal with many of the perceived shortcomings.

Tavor X-95

IWI set out to improve on the ergonomics of the Tavor, especially for the U.S. market.

While not visible from the outside, the trigger pack may be the most useful change. A factory pull from 5 to 6 pounds is about half that of the previous version. It makes a huge difference when it comes to accuracy and speed on the trigger without compromising reliability.

The new handguard provides a flat surface with removable panels revealing rails at 3, 6 and 9 o’clock. Left in place, you get a smooth surface that is flat all the way back to the grip guard and longer than the SAR.

Remove the panels and you can slim it up even more. It allows you to mount a light or bi-pod without the need for a new handguard or rail. Moving the charging handle back keeps things uncluttered and unobstructed. Quick Disconnect sling cups sit on either side of the stock as well as the front of the handguard and just behind the charging handle allowing you to switch between them.

You can also swap the Tavor-style grip with one that uses a standard trigger guard. While the bolt release is in the same place it is smaller and lower profile. Magazines are now released using buttons placed similarly to an AR on either side of the grip. Back-up sights remain hidden in the top rail for deployment as needed.

The 16½-inch cold hammer forged CrMoV 1:7 twist barrel is capped with an A2 style flash hider. It retains the long-stroke gas piston system and AR magazine compatibility. Overall length is the same, but the stock area is trimmed a bit providing a flatter feel that seems to work better with a plate carrier.

You can still make it a left side eject and right side charging if needed, making it one of the most ambidextrous out of the box carbines you can get. It ships in a box with one 30-round Gen 3 PMAG.

Testing

I wanted to keep this test purely carbine-like, so no optics other than for the obligatory groups. My preferred configuration keeps it simple and as light as possible. My Trijicon SRS red-dot sight was mounted so as not to obstruct the factory backup iron sights. SureFire’s Warcomp replaced the factory flash hider for suppressor use. You can time the warcomp for left, right or neutral shooting, this was timed neutral. Just make sure and use the SureFire-supplied spacer that’s designed to provide a bit more shoulder for the actual shims.

I also added a new Geissele Super Sabra trigger pack. While the factory trigger is much better than the SAR, it is still not nearly as crisp as the Geissele. Other than some alterations to the housing, they are the same. My last addition was a Blue Force Vickers sling using QD sling swivels.

On the Range

To make an honest comparison, I started range tests with the factory trigger. We used Leupold’s Mark 6 3-18X scope for groups at 100 yards. Group testing at 50 and 25 yards used the Trijicon SRS. After about 100 rounds my groups started to tighten up. It’s really all about getting a solid position, and that just takes some time. Results are best when the Tavor is locked in place.

My best group with the factory trigger came using some 600-grain Vmax from HPR ammunition measuring 1.3 inches. It was consistent and soft-shooting. Another accurate round was the Nosler Defense 64-grain Soft Point. Interestingly it was also the most accurate out of the Tavor SAR. Both rifles seemed to be the most consistently accurate with bullets in the 60- to 64-grain range.

Black Hills 69-grain TMK grouped at 1.6 inches — the 77 grain came in at 1¾ inches. The best in the heavies was the Hornady 75-grain Superformance 5.56mm NATO. Moving to the Geissele essentially tightened everything up by about ¼ inches. I was able to produce a couple 1-inch groups with the 60-grain Vmax load and the 69-grain TMK from Black Hills tightened up to 1.3 inches.

My standard zero for an RDS equipped rifle is 50 yards, so the Trijicon SRS was zeroed using the 60-grain VMAX from HPR — the most accurate overall. Shooting from an unsupported prone in the dirt we kept 10-shot groups at this range inside 2 inches shooting pretty quickly. Move up to 25 yards and it was similar, maybe a bit tighter. Using holds on this zero it was easy getting hits on 12-inch steel out to 300 yards. Loaded with Black Hills 69-grain TMK it was very consistent.

Working the square range, the X-95 really shined. The magazine release was positive with all but one magazine ejecting cleanly from the magwell. Every other magazine ran with zero issues, including Brownell’s GI 20- and 30-rounders, Gen 2 and 3 PMAGS, my old IWI magazines as well as Lancers.

Using the forward magazine release was intuitive and never inadvertently activated by gear or anything else. Just like an AR it is better to rest your trigger finger when not in use above the release, but that would seem to be common sense.

Surefire’s Warcomp kept things steady and the Geissle allowed for some very fast split times. Take up is a bit longer than an AR, but it was as fast as any of my rifles using similar Geissele triggers.

Other Considerations

Unlike my SAR, the X-95 worked very well with most of the ammunition when suppressed using the SureFire SOCOM556-RC2. While there was no impact shift taking it on and off, there was a consistent 3-inch drop between suppressed and unsuppressed across most all ammunition. It functioned fine with no observable change in brass ejection patterns.

All of the ergonomic changes enhanced my ability to use the X-95. Charging handle placement is makes manipulation fast. There was no interference with the handguard and plenty of room for large hands. Magazine changes were very fast using the bolt release and new magazine release placement.

Just like the SAR, it worked better just keeping it in the pocket if you are trying to be fast. Turning it sideways was possible without the plate carrier. The new sling attachments allowed me to carry it using a traditional two point holding it tight and close to my chest.

Keeping the bottom panel on the handguard allowed for stable positions in barricades and even in some tree limbs. Remove it and my Atlas Bi-pod mounted right up and it is very stable from prone. Even with the bi-pod attached, it was possible to work in all kinds of positions around the truck that are difficult even with a short AR. As expected, it is a very handy rifle.

Final Thoughts

Not sure it will surprise anyone given my affinity for the SAR, but I really like this rifle. It allows me to keep a short rifle that takes full advantage of the 5.56mm cartridge. It runs just like a 10-inch AR without the need for paperwork. It proved reliable, plenty accurate and soft shooting even when suppressed. If your customers are already Tavor fans, they’ll love the X-95.

For those looking to make the jump without loosing most of the AR-type controls, this is probably your customers’ best bet. Just like the SAR, the X-95 is going to see a ton of use.

Source: http://www.shootingsportsretailer.com/2016/07/25/x-95-tavor-tavors/

Steve Fisher of Sentinel Concepts Added to Agency Arms Asset Program

By

248 Shooter

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August 4, 2016

Steve Fisher owner and lead instructor of Sentinel Concepts has just been added to the Agency Arms, Agency Asset program.

Agency Arms has been taking the customised handgun market by storm in the last few years and has added many top industry names to their lineup of supporters.

With handguns like this, it is obvious why their guns have been so well received by consumers and instructors alike.

Steve Fisher had the following to say on the matter.

Proud to be among some the most the gifted and talented instructors all ready using agency guns

If you want to learn more about Agency and their guns check them out here: http://agencyarms.com/

For more on Steve Fisher and Sentinel Concepts you can find it here: http://sentinelconcepts.com

Having had a recent chance to shoot their rifle and handgun recently you can expect to find more news on all these companies in upcoming articles.

Teaser of Agency Arms Rifle Picture by Jerry Sarkody

Southern Grind Spider Monkey Blade Review

By

248 Shooter

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July 21, 2016

I have carried a knife since middle school. The number of times my pocket knife has come to my aid is astronomical. However until recently I had little appreciation for a good blade. Instead, I relied on cheap Chinese knives that I didn’t care about losing or destroying.

That all changed once I learned the differences in steel, material, and craftsmanship that separated cheap blades from quality tools. One of the companies that have been a rising star in the handcrafted, quality blade market is Southern Grind.

Who is Southern Grind

Southern Grind was founded by country singer Zac Brown. Zac is a true knife connoisseur who developed the company as part of a way to fund his passion project Camp Southern Ground. The idea of the company was to build knives representative of what Zac believes knives should be – ruggedly dependable and highly functional, born from state of the art technology and quality that is second to none.

Zac is more than a good singer, who loves knives. He’s the type of guy who puts time and effort into giving back. As such he created Camp Southern Ground to give children of all abilities the opportunity to come together to learn life skills and teamwork in a positive, healthy outdoor environment. Through this funding and other grants such as the Chris Kyle Frog Foundation children who otherwise could not afford such an experience are being allowed unique learning and social opportunities.

The Blades of Southern Grind

The product line of Southern Grind is niche since they only offer a few styles of knives. They do expand their offerings however by providing multiple blade types, colors, and grips.

The most popular blades are the “Monkey” line, which comes in 2 sizes, the bad monkey the larger original size, and the spider monkey a smaller pocket knife.

The remaining blades are all fixed to range in size from neck blades to an impressively large and well-balanced machete.

The Spider Monkey

Due to the incredibly convoluted blade laws in the state of Michigan we opted to purchase the spider monkey knife. The relatively small 3.25-inch blade is just the right size to keep you out of trouble in almost all cities.

The spider monkey is offered in 4 blade types, Drop Point, Damascus, Drop Point Serrated or modified Tanto. We chose the drop point serrated due to my affiliation with cub scouts and regular use of a rope.

For the non-Damascus versions, the blades are made from S35VN steel with a hardness of RC 58-59. An Interesting fact not mentioned on the website is the source of the steel. Blade blanks are water jet cut from industrial logging saws for all of Grind’s fixed blades. The natural tempering process of the blades being used to cut wood over and over again heating and cooling during their natural life span makes for an incredible tempering process that would never be viable if replicated in a factory.

The handles of the Southern Grind Spider Monkey are carbon fiber making them extremely light yet durable. How light? The overall weight on the Spider Monkey is just 3.2 ounces. This weight reduction is also evident in the 6ALV4 titanium lock and liner material.

The pocket clip is placed high on the handle allowing you to set the blade deeply into your pocket for concealment, yet still easily reachable. The clip itself is also very short meaning it is quicker to access and less pronounced.

I have used the blade regularly for the last 60 days. While this is a short period, it has held up great to daily abuse holding an incredibly sharp edge.

Conclusion

If you want an American made blade that is designed to stand the test of time, then Southern Grind is a major contender. For those of us that grew up poor like me or who just take pride in giving back to the community, Southern Grind offers a unique opportunity to do good for others while still treating yourself to some Amercian craftsmanship.

The Spider Monkey is available from select retailers as well as direct from Southern Grind via their website http://southerngrind.com/. The Spider Monkey is priced at $219.95, and up, the model we reviewed is $224.95.

Source Article from http://248shooter.com/index.php/southern-grind-spider-monkey-blade-review/

We Like Shooting 150 – Segment – Going Ballistic

By

We Like Shooting

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July 20, 2016

This is Going Ballistic!

Welcome to the We Like Shooting show, Episode 150 – tonight we’ll talk about CRKT Knives, Lionheart LH9NC, Tactical Pens, Century Arms, All the gun news, rubber dummies and more!

Click here for the full show notes!

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: iTunes | Android | RSS

Source: https://welikeshooting.com/show/150/

Apex Tactical Specialties: Flat-Face Forward Set Glock Trigger Kit

By

Eric TGL

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July 19, 2016

Craig Reinolds of Swanson Media Group gives TGL his review of the Apex Tactical Glock Trigger kit

Apex Tactical Specialties have created some new and innovative products in the firearms industry. The Apex mission is to provide superior parts, exceptional performance and craftsmanship, and above all, unparalleled customer service. From my personal experience with this company, you can take this mission statement from Apex to the bank.

This focus of this review is the recently released Flat Faced Glock Trigger Set and Ultimate Safety Plunger. This kit includes high performance components designed to reduce take up, trigger pull, reset and smooth transitioning during the trigger press.

My journey with Apex has spanned the last couple of years, testing firearms and custom components. Many of my past handgun tests have included an Apex trigger as part of the custom build. Recently, I tested a Walther PPQ M2 with a model specific Apex trigger. Wow, I think it is the best handgun Walther produces. I definitely believe the addition of the Apex trigger took the performance for the review over the top. I decided to customize my personal Glock pistol and when it came to find a trigger, there was no doubt I would look to Apex for my needs. When our team at Swanson Media Group reached out to Apex a few months ago, we were delighted to discover they were working on a complete kit for the Glock platform. The version we tested was one of their pre-production model.

I wanted a handgun that could perform top in its class whether in the competition circuits, self-defense or just running and gunning on the steel. My goal was to have a pistol that helped take my handgun training the next level as well have an everyday carry pistol that was battle ready. As the saying goes, “Beware the man who only has one gun. He probably knows how to use it!” This is the gun I wanted to have with me at all times while gaining experience using it very effectively. After evaluating several possibilities, my final choice was the Glock 34 MOS. Since it was an optics ready pistol, I mounted the Vortex Venom Red Dot on the slide along with a new set of Trijicon Tritium Night Suppressor Sights.

I installed the ATS Trigger Kit. The kit included the Flat-Faced Forward Set Trigger, the Trigger Bar, the Ultimate Safety Plunger and a new Connector. Once the build was complete I Immediately went to John Phillips at Survivor Creek Tactical and had his company build an IWB Kydex custom to my carry preferences and an OWB Kydex RTI System. Now the testing and training could properly begin!

When talking about triggers, there are a few things that we look at to rate and compare them. Trigger take up, the “break point”, the reset and the pounds of pull to the break. The Glock 34 Gen 4 MOS comes with a decent trigger, trigger pull at ~2.0 kg / ~4.5 lbs. and the trigger travel at ~12.5 mm / ~0.49 in. The thing I noticed the most from the factory trigger is when you hit the trigger break. Although measuring only 4.5 LBS, when it did break, the trigger felt like pushing on a closed door and when it opened you fell through without control causing all my shots to vary in a horizontal row 2 inches left, right and on the bullseye. The break was more of a shattering then a clean break. This cancelled out anything else positive about the factory trigger just magnifying the need for a custom trigger. The Apex trigger kit is a drop-in replacement for the factory parts and maintains the factory safety features. The Apex kit is intended for use in the following Glock model pistols (including Gen 4 versions): G17, G17L, G19, G22, G23, G24, G26, G27, G31, G32, G33, G34, G35, G37, G38, and G39. The Ultimate plunger will smooth out the trigger’s take up during shooting.

After working with the factory trigger for a few days, the Apex kit felt almost indescribable. This has to be the best trigger I have ever shot. I enjoy the short take up on the trigger and the perceived wall can only be described as more like a closed unlatched door. You obviously know when you reach the break point but instead of having to pull through with specific poundage, you simply press your way through. Apex has created a trigger that enhances the technique of pressing the trigger. This is truly remarkable; you can just simply press through a predictable firing of the pistol. After a short reset you just press again with no negative reactions to the break, firing the handgun on target every time assuming you have mastered the other components to firing a pistol accurately. I am not an engineer but the combination Apex has put together with the trigger, ultimate safety plunger and connector clearly has made a winning combination for a smooth operation.

In closing I would like to Thank Apex Tactical Specialties, Inc. for the opportunity to evaluate the Glock Trigger Kit. This kit has exceeded all expectations in a custom trigger. I have been well pleased with the flawless, finely tuned performance. Excelling so well on the competition circuits and civilian sales, I have no doubts, based on my personal experience, they will continue to be a number one contender for custom and performance parts for many years to come. For more information about this trigger kit as well as other great Apex products, visit them at https://www.apextactical.com.

Source: http://www.thegearlocker.net/2016/06/apex-tactical-specialties-flat-face-forward-set-glock-trigger-kit/

Practical Tactical Firearms G Hook EDC Belt

By

Eric TGL

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July 13, 2016

We take a look at Practical Tactical Firearm’s G-Hook EDC Belt in Wolf Grey. Brian makes the EDC Belt in 1.5inch in Wolf Grey, Black, and Coyote. The Price of the belt is $45.00

PTF’s Website: http://www.practicaltacticalfirearms.com/ and you can contact them at info@practicaltacticalfirearms.com

Music used: Derelict Ship by Per Kiilstofte https://machinimasound.com/music/dere…
Licensed under Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/b…)

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Source: http://tgleric.tumblr.com/post/146549763394/practical-tactical-firearms-g-hook-edc-belt

GLOCK 9mm Pistol Chosen as the New FBI Gun

By

248 Shooter

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July 12, 2016

According to documents released today the FBI has awarded GLOCK up to 85,000,000 for new 9mm pistols.

You can see the official listing here:

https://www.fbo.gov/index?s=opportunity&mode=form&id=3003911f9f7ff35889bf5f46c48ba0ef&tab=core&tabmode=list&=

It has been a few years in the making with the reports of the FBI looking at 9mm seriously. With increased stopping power of modern ammunition, the ability to carry additional rounds, reduced recoil and increased accuracy for most shooters, the 9mm benefits are well known.

It will be interesting to see how many local law enforcement departments will be switching over.

As we receive more information such as the exact model awarded the contract we will update the story further.

UPDATE: The fact the gun must not have any finger grooves leads us to believe this will be either a modified version of the current G3 or G4 pistol or we are looking at a new gun. Or they are having the guys at ATEi go into overdrive grinding down finger grooves.

Source Article from http://248shooter.com/index.php/glock-9mm-pistol-chosen-new-fbi-gun/

The Crosman Pioneer Airbow Lays Claim to Hardcore Hybrid Shooting

By

248 Shooter

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July 11, 2016

In the words of expert guide and world renowned hunter Jim Shockey, “This changes everything.” Since eyeballing and test-firing Crosman’s Benjamin Pioneer Airbow at the 2016 Archery Trade Association show and spending quality range time with it at the 2016 SHOT Show, Shockey’s words have replayed too many times to count.

Say it to yourself then take a good, hard look at Crosman’s ultimate outdoor game-changer, the Airbow.

The Franken-Bow?

A bit Frankenstein-ish as product development goes, the Benjamin Pioneer Airbow delivers a solid mix of archery and airgun technology, but looks a heck of a lot cooler than Frankenstein ever did. While the hybrid design looks cool on the face of it, it’s important to note the history from which the Airbow derives.

While Merriam-Webster defines archery as “the sport or skill of shooting with a bow and arrow” and adds that a bow is simply “a weapon used for shooting arrows and usually made of a strip of wood bent by a cord connecting the two ends,” virtually everyone even remotely familiar with the subject would agree that there is more to both definitions than the iconic dictionary cares to convey.

From Stone Age to New Age

From Stone Age to New Age, humans have used archery for sustenance and warfare for as long as 50,000 years; the true date of its inception remains hotly debated, but nobody contests its abundant use by the close of the Upper Paleolithic Era some 10,000 years ago. Most experts agree that the crossbow, perhaps a better analogy to the Airbow, didn’t make an appearance until approximately 600 B.C. But by about 400 B.C., the crossbow had become a pretty a common weapon in China. Not long after, crossbows trickled across the rest of Asia and Europe and used in Medieval warfare before crossing over some 400 years ago into the New World.

Air rifles are not nearly as old; however, their history seems nearly as rich. According to airgun expert Richard Beeman, the Royal Danish Arsenal houses the oldest air rifle on record — a spring-loaded, propulsive blast rifle believed to have been built around 1590. In 1600, the earliest known pneumatic air rifle (the technology is still in use today) was built for France’s King Henry IV. To power this rifle, an air chamber in the buttstock was filled, as today’s rifles are. But while earlier rifles were filled to as much as 1,000 psi, today’s Crosman pre-charged pneumatic (PCP) air rifles — and indeed the PCP-powered Airbow — take up 3,000 psi for repeat shots and increased energy.

So what happens when you marry these two technologies? It’s not a bow, or even a crossbow. It’s not a rifle or even an air rifle.

What’s the Buzz About?

Don’t let the name fool you. As Crosman’s Chip Hunnicutt was quick to point out, the Airbow is not an archery bow or even a crossbow. It was never intended to be or even necessarily replace today’s traditional archery-based equipment. Hunnicutt claims that the Airbow is in a class of its own and delivers more than enough power for big game hunting. But what makes this thing cool, different and fun?

First things first, the Benjamin Pioneer Airbow is lightweight. At just seven pounds, it’s actually lighter than many rifles or crossbows. Also, the bows are finished in black and come with Realtree camouflage adhesive decals for hunters.

The Benjamin Pioneer Airbow is a PCP-powered shooting system with an air reservoir housed within the chassis. The reservoir holds up to 3,000 psi and powers as many as 10 arrows at a blistering average speed of 450 fps.

While you could potentially charge the Airbow with something similar to a bicycle pump, most PCP air rifle shooters, and most likely future Airbow shooters will charge the reservoir with a relatively light 15-inch, 4,500psi Benjamin air tank, or even a full-fledged SCUBA tank. Either way, great care should be taken to fill the reservoir slowly when using air tanks of any kind. An air gauge sits at the tip of the forend, under the air tube for easy observation between shots or during air charges.

Although the short, “bullpup” style tactical chassis does not feature an adjustable stock it appears to hit that sweet spot, fitting shooters large or small exceptionally well. The chassis also features a surprisingly comfortable pistol grip, trigger guard and forend. Overall length of the Airbow is a short 33.5 inches — perfect for hunting and shooting in tight spots and even bloodtracking through the thick stuff without catching on brush and branches.

In Focus on Trigger Time

At SHOT’s Industry Day at the Range, I quietly waited my turn while watching shooter after shooter square up behind the Airbow and launch arrows, accurately, at an average velocity I had never seen before. When my turn came, like the others, I listened to Chip carefully as he laid out all of the Airbow’s features then slowly and clearly instructed me, step by step. I “nocked” an arrow by sliding it over the length of the air tube. To cock the Airbow, I pulled up on the ambidextrous cocking device built into the top of the stock; it was quite easy, perhaps no more than a two-finger pull.

Once the Airbow was cocked, I settled in, like the others before me, and set the MTAG crosshairs of the 6x40mm CenterPointe scope on one of the diamonds on the face of the BIGshot Extreme 500 target downrange. Once I was ready I pushed forward on the safety lever positioned directly in front of the Airbow’s trigger. After taking the Airbow off safe, I slowly squeezed the trigger. While it was a tad on the heavy side, it was crisp and with less travel than I expected.

The shot was much quieter than expected. While I did not measure how much noise a shot generates, I saw no need, myself, for hearing protection. The sound level seemed comparable to shooting a .22-cal. pellet rifle. While the air tube did shudder after shots, it did not appear to have an effect on arrow flight. It was smooth, without any evidence of tailing — in fact, every shot I took was also exceptionally accurate and I grouped extraordinarily well, of course, the integrated pressure regulator facilitates this level of accuracy by distributing airflow evenly through the recommended number of shots per charge.

Hardcore Hitter

As a hardcore bowhunter, former archery technician and rifle hunter, my concerns rest in accuracy and energy, precisely where the Benjamin Airbow shines. I shot repeatedly and watched as every 375gr arrow drove hard into the target face with devastating force with 160 ft.-lbs. of energy. That’s more than enough energy to put down any animal on any continent and keep it there. Shockey proved this claim when he took a hefty bull buffalo with the Pioneer Airbow during field testing in 2015.

To say this hybrid shooting system is deadly is an understatement. Crosman knows airgun technology as well as anybody but to add archery to the mix was not only bold, it was downright genius. I suspect most people will readily embrace the Airbow for what it is: a true hybrid. With the difficulty of pulling back a compound bow keeping many from the sport, and some even having issues cocking a crossbow, the Airbow fits right in that sweet spot for people who want to get into archery and bowhunting but might have problems with conventional equipment.

More Than an Airbow, It’s a Kit Ready to Kill

The Crosman Benjamin Pioneer Airbow includes (3) 375gr carbon arrows with nano ceramic Victory ICE coating, a quick-detach quiver, custom sling, CenterPointe 6x40mm scope with MTAG reticle featuring indexing points out to 75 yds. and a canted picatinny base with 20 MOA of adjustability. And, unlike most crossbows, the Airbow can be decocked as easily as it was cocked for ultra-safe handling, especially when hunting from a treestand.

So where might one chase deer, hogs or other critters with an Airbow? Visit Crosman’s website to learn about where you can use the Airbow to hunt predators, pigs and big game. As of today, Airbow hunting for coyotes and predators is legal in 28 states, while feral hog hunting with the Airbow is legal in at least 10 states.

All things considered, Crosman’s Benjamin Pioneer Airbow is right on target. Shooting was quiet, comfortable, accurate and repeatable. While many bows, rifles and crossbows come without accessories, this Airbow essentially comes ready for action. Does it change everything? For a lot of customers, it will. And if your customers enjoy shooting rifles, crossbows and bows — and are welcome to game-changing innovation — they’re going to love the Pioneer Airbow.

Source: http://www.shootingsportsretailer.com/2016/06/29/crosman-pioneer-airbow-lays-claim-hardcore-hybrid-shooting/

We Like Shooting 151 – Gear Chat

By

We Like Shooting

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July 10, 2016

This is an individual segment, for the whole show and show notes please visit here

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: iTunes | Android | RSS

Source: https://welikeshooting.com/show/151/

OTOA (Ohio Tactical Officers Association) Annual Meeting

By

248 Shooter

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July 10, 2016

There are many TOA type organizations around the country. Most states offer them, for example, the MTOA that we covered last year with SDI and the largest the NTOA, which represents officers across the country.

Most of these events are rather small offering a smattering of booths that highlight police specific products and some training courses. What many do not know is tucked in among the flat lands of rabid Buckeyes fans is the better-kept secret of the training industry.

The OTOA Conference hosted almost 1000 officers over a one week period at the Kalahari Resort in Sandusky Ohio earlier this month. Having attended it, I see why this conference is grown year over year.

Any good conference is packed with workshops that attendees do their best to avoid. Hell, I have spoken at several conferences and still not seen the inside of the rooms that I didn’t make a speech in. Mostly because industry specific education is falling on ears of people who too often either know it all already or who think they do. This was not the case in Sandusky. The Monday conferences were packed full of people and rightfully so.

In-depth information was provided by multiple branches of laws enforcement ranging from Dallas PD, who shared information on the Dallas PD station attack, FBI agents discussing hostage rescue, Coverage of the Aurora Theatre shooting and more followed by a great meal and fellowship. That was only on the first day.

The real meat and potatoes started on day 2 with breakout sessions on specific topics from medical training that included a free tourniquet thanks to Nationwide Insurance, administrative, dispatch, CQB, legal action and even estate planning for those who put their lives on the line. In all, there were over 42 tracks of instruction available for attendees.

The vendor show on Tuesday showcased some of the best companies in the industry supporting local law enforcement. Over 200 vendors gathered to give one on one interaction with the guys who use their products. Unlike many industry events, the booths were not packed with sales reps and marketing people. Many on hand were product development people, engineers, trainers and CEO’s who worked with officers to discuss actual use, not fancy gimmicks.

Here is just a sample of the companies who supported the event.

5.11 Atei

AT Armor

Blue Force Gear

Alliance PD Range

Cleer Medical

Raven Concealment

MTOA

Vertex

Half Cocked Targets

Nationwide Insurance

Combat Swag (with CJ Jackson himself!!!!!)

Geiselle

B5 Systems

Velocity Systems

Mayflower

and so much more!

The following three days involved mainly off-site live fire and range based training with some of the best instructors in the country. Attendees could pick 1 class a day with their included registration fee. When looking at the typical cost of a John Chapman, Will Petty or other training from the likes of LMS, 88 Tactical, Cleer Medical and more the cost of admission was half the typical cost of admission.

To give you an idea of the knowledge available check out this incomplete list of classes.

88 Tactical was at the forefront of this event fielding instructors in just about every possible niche of the law enforcement tactics cadre. It was an honor and pleasure to spend one on one time with the likes of William Petty, Matt Jaques, Trevor Thrasher, Phil Chaney, Frank Sepulveda, Devin Crinklaw and Shea Degan not to mention the cast of less known names that will likely be some of the up and coming stars of the training community. The amount of knowledge consumed was only limited by one’s ability to absorb it. We will cover the grand opening of the 88 Tactical Facility on July 7th so stay tuned.

The OTOA was open to police officers even if not from Ohio, and it is the one event that I would say is a must do for those who run to gunfire instead of away from it. While the OTOA conference is not for civilians much of the training offered, can be found in courses taught by 88 Tactical, LMS, Sentinel Concepts and the Alliance PD Range, if you’re interested in learning from the best of the best.

A $250 fee gets you a very nice 5.11 sling pack, access to all that we discussed and more in the way of dinners, raffles and one on one talk with dudes who opinion actually matters. I don’t teach tactics on this blog because, frankly, I am not qualified to. Neither is 99% of Youtube and 80% of instructors. It’s nice when you’re talking in a group and see dudes who lived the life, walked the walked sharing their knowledge for the safety and protection of our police. Cause God knows not one of these instructors made enough on this event to be doing this for profit.

All photography was graciously provided by our Friend @iDaveMoore go follow him on IG.

Source Article from http://248shooter.com/index.php/otoa-88tactical/

Terrorist attacks are Not Mass Shootings, But they are a Gun Control Issue

By

248 Shooter

-

July 7, 2016

Let’s be very clear on a few points before the flame wars begin. Though the numbers are skewed to show more than occurred, the US has a mass shooting issue. These events are as deadly as they are because of a Gun control issue.

Let’s also be very clear that if we are calling what happened in France earlier this year was a terrorist attack that influenced Facebook to get people to change their social media profile pictures then what occurred in San Berdino and now in Orlando are terrorist attacks as well.

After both terrorist attacks, the anti-gun organizations blamed the NRA, other pro-gun representatives, and citizens as the cause. Not the radical beliefs of a zealous group in a religious war who perpetrated the crimes against our society.

What happened in Orlando is a travesty where a man angered by the sexual conduct of others was driven to commit a heinous crime against all of society. This man not only cleared a background check to own his guns but also cleared an extra check that employed him with a security license granting additional privileges to carry a gun. This was not a man, rather a piece of garbage that was on watch lists, interviewed by FBI and was being tracked for associating with terrorist forces and recruiters online.

So why are both of these incidents Gun Control issues? The first took place in California. A state known for some of the most restrictive gun control and regulations in the country. There an illegally obtained gun purchased via a straw purchase and then modified illegally was used by terrorist criminals to kill innocent people in a gun free zone. Giving the advantage to the terrorists who ignored our laws.

Yesterday’s action involved a person illegally using a gun in a gun free zone to corral and then murder people based on his excuse of religious beliefs. It is too soon to know if those guns were legal or illegally modified as some are claiming. Either way, the laws put in place to protect citizens failed again. Gun control failed again.

In the movie Dillinger, one of my favorite lines is when Johnny Depp says “I get away because they have to be everywhere all the time. I only have to be one place any time” or something along those lines. That there is the reason why all of these crimes are a gun control issue.

This hero took a bullet to the head trying to save those still alive inside. Thankfully his department got him training and gear to stop the fight.

I have many great police, srt, military and first responder friends. These are people that run to gunfire to save lives. There is only so many of them that have to cover 24 hours across huge cities and towns. There are only so many jobs available that can be supported by taxes and commerce. There is only so many that can deal with the bull shit associated with typical police departments that can make saving lives a career. I know many and more that are not police that carry every day, served their time in the military or spend time today training so that if the moment arises they can protect their family, friends and themselves from danger. These people are everywhere all the time for they are us.

The media does not report it as it does not fit the narrative but good guys at risk to their personal safety have stopped countless shootings, robbings, murders and more by being trained, being vigilant and carrying while all being everywhere the bad guys can be.

All of these crimes, murders, and cowards attacks on our freedom typically happen in gun free zones for a reason. Criminals ignore laws that affect them but leverage these same laws in their favor when looking to commit crimes. If you think that criminals don’t look to gun free zones, then you’re apparently not reading FBI statistics on where these events happen.

How is an Anti-American Terrorist registered as a Democrat a lackey of the NRA?

So instead of putting blame on the NRA like the disgusting Daily News did today. Instead of looking for ways to get guns out of people’s hands to widen and secure more gun free zones, instead of expanding gun control to allow terrorists more time to fight without resistance lets be smart about this.

Gun Control failed in Paris, It failed on 9/11 it failed in San Berdino, it failed at Sandy Hook, it failed in Orlando and if given the chance it will fail again when another sad, lonely, pathetic excuse for a human is pulled in by these psychopathic anti-humanity scum in the middle east. Let’s lay the blame at the pshycopaths that commit these crimes. Lets do something that is effective at stopping bad people and stop creating knee jerk political reactions garnered only to serve individual interest over societeies needs.

Background checks haven’t made us safe. More police haven’t made us safe. More restrictions have not made us safe. Look at Detroit, what is making people safer is on point trained citizens who are willing to combat evil. Don’t fall for the distraction of a gun problem. Don’t fall for the call for an America’s gun culture as the issue. These are terrorist attacks from an organization that does not fight on typical borders and is taking the war to our streets. This problem is a control and fear issue. For when we are fed on fear and cry for help, turning over what our forefather fought for the gov’t has all the control.

Remember those lost in Orlando, San Bardino and France and ask them what Gun control did for them. Then when you realize you stand alone at the gates of our enemy my brother, that it is you, and you alone that is responsible for your safety. Now what will you do?

Source Article from http://248shooter.com/index.php/terrorist-attacks-not-mass-shootings-gun-control-issue/