It might have a name that could raise eyebrows with some people (be careful when you search the internet for it), but the MicroDickPick is a handy addition to your EDC. With a deceptively simple design, it performs several functions without weighing you down.
The MicroDickPick is from Wingard Wearables. We’ve previously reviewed another of their EDC options, the Quill. The owner of the company is Zac Wingard. He has a creative and innovative eye for tool design. Wingard Wearables has been around for a little while, but they seem to fly under the radar a bit.
MicroDickPick Specs
The MicroDickPick is made from 0.1875-inch AEB-L stainless steel. It’s been heat-treated to 55-60 Rockwell. It’s left in a rectangular cross-section. The edges are hand-filed to provide a nice, comfortable grip. The MicroDickPick is sharp, but only where it’s supposed to be.
It runs 4.625 inches long. Across the hammer end, it’s 2.625 inches. All told, it weighs 1.2 ounces on my scale.
The Wingard Wearables MicroDickPick comes with a Kydex sheath. The sheath has shock cords and strong alligator clips. These are used to attach it just about anywhere on your clothing, such as inside a jacket. This keeps it easily accessible. The eyelets on the sheath are compatible with most aftermarket carry clips, should you wish to go that route.
There are two larger models. The Full-sized DickPick is 6.5 inches long and 3.0 inches across, and the DickPick Magnum is a full 12 inches long and 4.5 inches across.
MicroDickPick Uses
The long end terminates in a needle-sharp point. This makes it a nifty marlinspike option. Need to pick apart a stubborn knot? Pry up an O-ring? Punch a hole in a leather belt? The MicroDickPick is there to lend a hand.
At the opposite end is sort of a hammer and pry bar combination. The tool has a curved surface, providing leverage when you’re prying things apart. This, combined with a comparatively long handle, gives you more leverage and power than you may think.
The pry bar end of the MicroDickPick has a curve, which provides leverage.
The hammer face is small, and the tool is very light, so you’re not going to be assembling furniture with it. That said, it taps small parts into place just fine.
MicroDickPick for Defense
In most defense situations, a weapon that goes bang will be ideal. As a secondary option, the MicroDickPick can be used defensively in a few different ways.
The included Kydex sheath for the MicroDickPick has a couple of shock cords with alligator clips to attach it to your clothing.
Holding it with the pry bar in your palm and the spike jutting out from your closed fingers turns it into a nifty punch dagger of sorts. You can also reverse it into an icepick grip, with the pry bar resting between your fingers. This allows you to hammer fist the spike down into a target or rake the pry bar across the face of an attacker.
Most of our readers are probably familiar with the Buck 110, so we’re using that as a size comparison to the MicroDickPick.
Like the Quill, the MicroDickPick (as well as its larger brothers) is a unique EDC concept that has several applications. Wingard Wearables takes an outside-the-box approach to their designs, and this one is definitely a winner.
The Smith’s Pocket Pal is a compact knife sharpener with carbide blades for quick edge setting and ceramic stones for a polished finish. It also includes a fold-out diamond-coated rod for sharpening serrations and hooks.
Lightweight field sharpeners are essential for hikers and backpackers. They allow quick maintenance of knife and gear edges, enhancing efficiency in tasks like food preparation and firewood cutting. A compact sharpener reduces pack weight, improving comfort and mobility on long treks. It provides easy access for quick sharpening, preventing the hassle of dull tools and enhancing safety. By choosing lightweight options, hikers stay prepared without adding unnecessary weight to their gear.
For centuries, adventurers and craftsmen have depended on small, portable knife and tool sharpeners. These keep their edges sharp and ready for action. These handy field sharpeners are invaluable companions. They allow users to maintain their equipment whether hiking, camping, or working in a workshop.
Picture this: you’re trekking through the woods, and your trusty knife loses its edge. You can quickly restore its cutting power with a lightweight sharpener in your pocket. These compact sharpeners blend convenience with performance, ensuring you never have to compromise, no matter where your adventures lead.
Portable sharpeners have remained essential from past blacksmiths to today’s outdoor enthusiasts. They empower you to confidently tackle any cutting task. This makes them a vital addition to your gear.
Viking Style Field Sharpeners
The Bear Forest Knives Whetstone and Leather Slip Strop is a premium sharpening system designed for precision honing. The whetstone is genuine Arkansas Novaculite, known for its exceptional hardness and fine grain. This makes it ideal for refining knife edges, heavy tools, and even surgical instruments.
The Bear Forest Knives Whetstone and Leather Slip Strop is a premium sharpening system made from genuine Arkansas Novaculite, ideal for honing knife edges and tools.
The included JRE Industries Leather Slip protects the stone while doubling as a stropping surface with its smooth leather backing. Over time, the stone and leather develop a unique patina, showcasing their craftsmanship and durability.
This duo honing system is perfect for maintaining razor-sharp edges with a combination of traditional stone sharpening and finishing stropping. It is a reliable tool for professionals and outdoor enthusiasts alike. With these field sharpeners, you ensure precision in your toolkit. Weight 2.4 ounces.
MSRP: $49.99
The JRE Industries Leather Slip serves a dual purpose: it safeguards the stone and provides a smooth leather surface for stropping.
Smith’s Pocket Pal
The Smith’s Pocket Pal offers a compact, versatile solution for quick and easy knife-edge maintenance. It features a two-stage sharpening system with preset carbide blades that quickly set the edge. Additionally, it has ceramic stones that deliver a smooth, polished finish. You can easily use the fold-out diamond-coated rod to sharpen serrations, gut hooks, and fish hooks.
Lightweight and portable, the Pocket Pal easily fits in your pocket or backpack and includes a lanyard hole for convenient attachment. Whether you’re in the kitchen, outdoors, or on the go, this field sharpener keeps your blades sharp and ready for action. Weight 0.8 ounces.
MSRP: $11.99
Field Sharpeners Abroad
On a six-week overseas trip in Asia, this little pocket Pal was my only sharpener for my Victorinox Waiter knife. I cut lots of night market food, packages, loose string, and several related mundane tasks! The diamond sharpener is like a spike. I counted on this as my self-defense option if needed. However, it was a non-threatening tool and companion, demonstrating the versatile nature of quality field sharpeners.
Tuff Possum Gear/Sagewood Gear Pocket Strop
The Tuff Possum Gear/Sagewood Gear Pocket Strop is a portable sharpening tool designed to keep knives and tools in top condition while on the go.
The Tuff Possum Gear/Sagewood Gear Pocket Strop is a high-quality, portable sharpening tool. It’s designed for those who need to keep their knives and tools in top condition while on the go.
Crafted with durable materials, this pocket strop features a smooth leather surface. It hones and polishes blades to a razor-sharp edge. Its compact size makes it easy to carry in a pocket, bag, or toolkit, ensuring you have the means to maintain your cutting tools wherever you are.
The strop is designed for ease of use, often featuring a convenient handle or loop for a better grip during sharpening. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a tradesperson, or simply someone who values well-maintained tools, the Tuff Possum Gear/Sagewood Gear Pocket Strop is essential. It keeps your blades performing at their best.
With its functionality and portability, this strop is an ideal choice for anyone looking to ensure longevity and efficiency in their cutting instruments. It works particularly well with portable field sharpeners. Weight is 0.5 ounces.
MSRP: $22.00
Get one or all. Ensure you are never without a tool or incapable of sharpening your tools when on the go!
We’ve covered China and its weird guns, and I enjoyed writing the article, so I wanted to look at the other massive country in Eurasia, Russia. Russia has a long history of weird weapons. This includes dozens of bizarre prototype bullpup rifles that look like Cronenberg designed them. Picking a bunch of weird bullpups would be easy. So, instead of picking weird bullpup rifles, I went with weird Russian guns that have been fielded by military and police forces. I needed to challenge myself a bit.
The APS and SPP-1 – Weird Russian Guns Double Dose
I decided to do a two-for-one for the first entry of Weird Russian guns. When your weird task is to fire underwater, it’s not necessarily fun to take up two of five spots with underwater weapons. There seemed to be this idea in the 1970s that frogmen would be fighting all the time. They’d be having underwater firefights and duking it out.
This led to the creation of guns like the APS Underwater Assault Rifle and the SPP-1. Normal bullets just don’t work underwater. Instead, the rifle fired 5.66mm steel bolts from a 39mm case. The Russians will never abandon the 39mm case. The SPP fired 4.5mm steel bolts with a 40mmR case. This gun had four barrels, which allowed for four total shots to be fired.
These guns had a very limited range, but they were longer than rifles or spearguns. The APS offered 26 shots fired at a max range of 30 meters, but the range declined the deeper a frogman swam. The SPP-1 had a max range of 17 meters. The APS and SPP-1 were very niche weapons, and there isn’t any recorded use of the gun, or if there is, they aren’t telling us.
PSS Silent Pistol
How do we usually suppress a pistol? We strap a series of chambers held inside a tube to the front of the gun to trap and cool gas. Well, this is an article on weird Russian guns, so the Ruskies couldn’t do it normally. The PSS Silent Pistol was a micro-sized pistol that used a special 7.62x41mm cartridge known as the SP4.
The PSS Silent Pistol utilizes this odd cartridge that uses a self-contained charge that doesn’t launch the round, but rather launches a piston that propels the round. The round flies for an entire 25 meters, and the round’s moving at 660 feet per second. It’s super slow, and similar piston designs had been used in Vietnam’s silent revolvers.
How quiet could it be? I have no earthly idea. I wonder if a design like this would be NFA-free? How expensive would it be? Let’s get back on topic. The SPP was a semi-auto, magazine-fed gun that used a recoil-operated design. It’s neat and was fielded by special operations and secret police.
The NRS-2
Let’s bring a knife to a gunfight…again. Seriously, both China and Russia have knife guns fielded by their military forces? Well, if it’s good enough for China’s weird guns, it’s good enough for weird Russian guns. The NRS-2 is a combat knife that’s capable of firing a single shot of the SP-4 silenced round.
Oh, wait, it’s a 7.62x42mm SP4 cartridge instead of a 41mm round. That’s weird and inefficient. The NRS-2 can fire one round at 25 meters silently. Oh, at least it was a little more silent than normal, right? The NRS-2 has one barrel and seems to be a backup option to the blade, I guess?
The knife gun uses a simple mechanism with a removable bolt, a safety catch, and a weird trigger. It’s not a great system. It was apparently built for Spetsnaz forces and might still be used by them. Most sources say it’s still in service.
PP-90
I have a weird love of guns that fold into box-like shapes to avoid looking like guns. It’s another weird genre of firearms that transcends countries. When it comes to Weird Russian guns, the PP-90 might be the most normal, but it’s still bizarre. Any gun that folds and forms a weird, disguised rectangle is weird.
The PP-90 is a basic closed-bolt direct blowback gun. It fires from a magazine housed in the pistol grip and fires the 9mm Makarov round. Internally, it’s a standard submachine gun. It just happens to fold into a square that’s disguised and easy to hide. The PP-90 series uses a set of fold-up sights, which was neat for a 1990s gun.
Interestingly, the gun doesn’t seem to be designed to be disguised as much as it’s designed to be convenient to carry. It’s more akin to a PDW than a disguised SMG. It came with a belt holster for easy carry and a shoulder holster, which would absolutely rule.
ShAk-12
You hear the name ShAk, and you think Shaq, right? Well, they do have something in common. Shaq is a big guy, and the ShAk-12 fires a big round. The ShAk-12 is a bullpup rifle system designed for close-quarters fighting. The ShAk-12 fires a 12.7x55mm round, which is like .50 Beowulf. This series of weird Russian guns was designed for the FSB.
The idea is to have this big man-stopping round that would offer easy one-hit stops. The gun was designed to stop bad guys while attempting to stop collateral damage, which is the first time the Russians ever considered collateral damage. Predictably, the big, heavy rounds are subsonic, so they are easily suppressed, and that seems to be a standard accessory.
The ShAk-12 holds up to 20 rounds, and there is a duplex load option. The ShAk-12 also uses a short recoil system. That’s not odd for a handgun, but for a bullpup, it might be the first and only one I know of. I started this article by mentioning weird bullpups, and I got to finish on one.
Weird Russian Guns – What’s Left
These are five weird Russian guns that were issued or, at the very least, built for a Russian police or military force. If we just left this list open to weird Russian guns, we’d be here all damn day. What should we do next? I’m not sure if other countries do weird stuff, but trust me, I’ll be on the lookout for weird guns around the world.
Dry grass is an often-ignored, free, and reliable tinder option. It is one of nature's most effective secrets for starting fires.
These three free, underutilized natural tinders are easy to locate and identify. They span most of the United States, including the northern forests. I’ve seen them in Europe, Australia, and Russia.
Optimal tinder sources include birch bark, poplar and cedar bark, cottonwood seedpods, and old man’s beard. These natural tinders will readily take a spark from a Ferro rod, and especially an open flame. They are at their best when bone dry and at their worst when wet, all but birch bark. Birch bark (river, yellow, and white) can take a spark when damp and burn amazingly well when wet. However, you’d need to use a lot of the ferro rod to heat the birch bark before it will combust.
Reindeer Moss
Reindeer Moss is a type of lichen, not a true moss. This lichen flourishes in the cold environments of arctic and boreal forests. You can commonly find it in regions such as Scandinavia, Canada, Alaska, and the northern states of the U.S. Reindeer Moss grows in rocky, well-drained areas and often forms a carpet across the forest floor. This lichen may seem like the more obscure pick of the underutilized natural tinders. However, it’s an excellent option.
Harvest and Process this Natural Tinder
Reindeer Moss, classified as a lichen, is not a true moss. This lichen thrives in the cold climates of arctic and boreal forests.
To process reindeer moss for tinder, harvest dry, pale green or grayish clumps to avoid damp or overly fresh moss. Once collected, dry the moss by laying it out in the sun or near a fire to remove moisture. Next, break it down by crushing it into finer strands to increase its surface area, which aids in ignition.
When ready to start a fire, use char cloth, flint and steel, or a ferro rod to catch a spark. Reindeer moss burns hot and fast, making it an excellent choice for starter tinder.
Pampas Grass
Pampas grass is a striking ornamental grass native to South America, specifically Argentina, Chile, and Brazil. This resilient plant thrives in wetland areas and has successfully spread globally, including California, Texas, and the southeastern United States. It fits right in there with the other underutilized natural tinders.
Find It and Use It
To identify pampas grass, look for its impressive height, reaching up to 13 feet. The long, sharp-edged blades display a bluish-green hue. During late summer, you will notice its feathery plumes blooming in silvery-white, pink, or purple shades. Pampas grass grows in dense clumps, populating open fields, coastal dunes, and roadsides. When searching for this striking plant, focus on sunny, well-drained locations where tall, feathery plumes stand out.
Pampas Grass ignites quickly and easily catches a spark from a ferro rod, making it an excellent natural tinder. Use the dry stems for extra kindling.
It takes almost zero processing. In its natural state, it’s ready to go. Unlike the other underutilized natural tinders, it will quickly take a spark from a ferro rod. Use the dry stems as secondary kindling.
Dry Grass
Dry grass is the most overlooked tinder that’s free and foolproof. It stands out as one of nature’s best-kept secrets for igniting fires, yet people frequently overlook it in favor of processed char cloth or commercially made fire starters. Instead of spending money on these products, why not take advantage of the free tinder available right under your feet?
Dry grass excels at catching sparks and turning them into flames fast, making it a go-to material for survivalists, campers, and bushcrafters. Unlike some tinders that require special treatment, dry grass takes almost no processing—just gather, fluff, and ignite. The finer the strands, the easier they’ll catch a spark from a ferro rod or direct flame.
Lightweight, plentiful, and natural—it’s time to give dry grass the respect it deserves in your fire-making kit.
Harvesting This Underutilized Natural Tinder
The easiest way to harvest this resource is to run your hand with fingers slightly spread out and lightly grasp dead, dry grass sections. The loose stuff will burn best and naturally be easier to remove. Trim off the green or damp sections found at the bottom. Make small nests that you can easily turn over once ignited and burned.
Underutilized Natural Tinders Conclusion
The next time you’re out in the wilderness, take a ziplock bag and load up on these three free, underutilized natural tinders. Test them out and see how they work for you. Your life may depend on it!
Sharpening your knives might be the most common maintenance chore, but it isn’t the only one. You have to be able to properly clean and protect the blades, and that’s where Wicked Industries comes into play.
Like so many entrepreneurs, the whole thing started by not being able to find the product he wanted. Fred DiPrete, owner of DiPrete Forge, offers classes to teach people how to make knives. One of the most common questions he has received from students was what he recommended for protecting the steel from corrosion, and such. DiPrete began hunting around for something that would be suitable, but kept coming up empty.
Finally, he began experimenting with different concoctions and tweaking the recipes until he settled on exactly what he was after. Thus, Wicked Wax was born. It’s 100% food safe, goes on smooth, and doesn’t become sticky or gummy over time. Plus, he is able to produce it at an affordable price.
Wicked Industries began in 2022. In the years since, they’ve added a few more products to the lineup. DiPrete is from New Jersey, where wicked is a term used to mean excellent or perfect.
Wicked Wax
Wicked Wax, like all of the Wicked Industries products, comes in handy screw top tins.
While it was originally intended for knife blades, Wicked Wax can be used on all parts of the knife, including the handle and sheath. It’s safe for wood, plastic, epoxy, leather, and steel. It contains all-natural ingredients and no chemicals. It’s food safe, which makes it a great product for knives, as you don’t need to worry about cleaning the blade before engaging in food prep.
The basic idea is to reduce the risk of corrosion to your blade. Let’s face it, many of us don’t clean or maintain our knives as well as we should, especially in challenging environments. We put it off, sometimes until it’s too late and the damage is done. Applying a coating like Wicked Wax will help keep your blade in good condition.
Wicked Clean
Clean your blades well before you apply protectant. Photo credit: DLT Trading.
When it comes time to clean and polish your knife blade, Wicked Clean is an excellent choice. It has a mild abrasive to remove debris and oxidation. It will even work on some mild etchings. Like Wicked Wax, Wicked Clean has all-natural ingredients. It won’t harm the existing finish of the knife, either. It’s safe for use on steel, silver, brass, or other metals.
Wicked Rescue
Keep your hands, lips, elbows, and more feeling great. Photo credit: DLT Trading.
This is used to help heal your skin, such as hands, elbows, feet, and lips. Wicked Rescue contains no parabens, petroleum, mineral oil, or preservatives. Just all natural ingredients like Manuka Honey and Shea Butter. It will soothe and protect your skin as it encourages healing. It moisturizes and helps reduce dry skin.
Wicked Wix
Wicked Industries has a few different scented candles. Photo credit: DLT Trading.
Wicked Industries also produces a small line of Wicked Wix candles with various scents like Bourbon Butterscotch and Coffee Shop. Each candle is made from beeswax, soy wax, and non-toxic fragrances. They burn slower than paraffin candles and are a great alternative for those who suffer from allergies or asthma, as the wax burns cleaner.
Introducing the newest member of 5.11’s Allhaula™ Collection: the Allhaula™ 30-Can Cooler. This cooler is crafted for times when you want to truly relax and refresh, outperforming standard soft-sided coolers.
Here are four awesome Father’s Day gift picks specially chosen for dads who love tactics and the great outdoors! The special day to celebrate dads is approaching, so get in gear!
Make a statement in the sand with the latest addition to 5.11’s Allhaula™ Collection of rugged gear bags. The Allhaula™ 30-Can Cooler is designed for moments focusing on true refreshment and relaxation, outpacing lesser soft-sided coolers. With a spacious 1,092-cubic-inch capacity, this cooler boasts waterproof, reinforced RF welded seams and a waterproof zipper.
Using the laser-cut MOLLE panels, you can easily attach accessories like the Allhaula™ Insulated Dry Pouch. Plus, the compression-molded bottom ensures maximum durability. This cooler stands out as a top choice for serious outdoor enthusiasts.
MSRP: $131.25
Quick Look:
Holds up to 30 cans
[+]Compression molded bottom with mirrored logo so imprints in sand
Waterproof, reinforced RF welded seams
Waterproof zipper
Loop panel for patches
Laser-cut MOLLE panels on three sides
Side grab handles, padded shoulder strap
840D nylon shell with 420D nylon liner
Outdoors Father’s Day Gift
For outdoor dads, PNWBUSHCRAFT offers durable waxed canvas and leather gear for the Pacific Northwest, including bags and foraging pouches, all crafted with care in the USA. Their Cedar Bucket Bag is a handcrafted Waxed Canvas Bucket Bag with outside pockets.
PNWBUSHCRAFT designed it to keep your cooking pot separate from soot while shielding it from moisture. Initially crafted for storing cookware sets, this bag now features four external pockets perfect for holding utensils, spices, matches, and other essentials.
The Waxed Canvas Cedar Bucket Bag features exterior pockets and keeps your cookware clean and dry. Four outer pockets make it easy to store your essentials.
The bag measures approximately 6.25 inches wide and 9.75 inches deep and is available in brown, green, or tan. It closes securely with paracord and a toggle, and each external pocket measures around 5 inches wide and 5 inches deep. We reinforced the seams with rivets to ensure that your items stay put. The bag is constructed from durable 10.1-oz waxed canvas and showcases a hand-branded leather tag.
This stylish bag goes beyond just holding a cookpot. It’s an excellent option for carrying food, clothing, miscellaneous items, or foraging supplies. It also makes a reliable all-weather bear bag you can hang out of reach.
MSRP: $59.00
Hunting & Outdoors Pick
Introducing the Knives By Nuge (KBN) Bruin, designed out of necessity while hunting. KBN initially created the Bruin with a saber grind, but trusted outdoor professionals suggested a scandi grind for enhanced versatility. As a result, KBN now offers both options. Choose the saber grind for dedicated hunting or the scandi version for an all-purpose field knife.
The Bruin by Knives By Nuge offers tough steel options like AEB-L, Nitro-V, and CPM-3V, perfect for outdoor use. Each knife comes with a comfortable ambidextrous kydex pocket sheath and is proudly made in the USA.
The Bruin is available in tough steel options like AEB-L, Nitro-V, and CPM-3V, making it ideal for outdoor use. Each model comes with an ambidextrous Kydex pocket sheath that fits comfortably. The Bruin proudly originates from the USA.
MSRP: $335.00
Author’s Father’s Day Pick
Knowledge is essential. Jim Cobb’s “Prepper’s Long-Term Survival Guide” is a thorough manual for individuals preparing for prolonged disasters rather than short-term emergencies.
The Prepper’s Long-Term Survival Guide distinguishes itself from typical prepping books by focusing on long-term survival strategies. It explores crucial areas such as food storage, shelter, security, off-grid power, and self-sufficient living. It covers essential topics like:
Jim Cobb’s “Prepper’s Long-Term Survival Guide” is a comprehensive manual for individuals gearing up for extended disasters rather than just short-term emergencies.
Beyond Short-Term Survival – The book emphasizes surviving weeks, months, or even years after a catastrophe, addressing challenges like grid failures, pandemics, and economic collapse.
Water & Food Storage – Cobb provides practical methods for purifying water and building emergency food supplies without electricity.
Security & Defense – Strategies for protecting your home and family in a post-collapse world, including fortifications and self-defense techniques.
Off-the-Grid Power – Tips on solar panels, alternative energy sources, and DIY power solutions to maintain essential functions without modern infrastructure.
Real-World Lessons—Each chapter begins with a fictional journal entry, immersing readers in survival scenarios before offering practical advice.
Overall, “The Prepper’s Long-Term Survival Guide” serves as a vital handbook for anyone looking to enhance their preparedness for unforeseen events. It blends practical advice with an encouraging strategy for long-term survival. Don’t let Dad be unprepared this Father’s Day!
Surplus handguns represent a cost-effective option, whether you are looking for a concealed carry handgun, a new shooting iron, or something a little different. For a few decades after the Cold War, Warsaw Pact handguns were a going option. The most common options are the Soviet TT-33 and the various flavors of Makarov pistol. The more discerning shooter might even pick a Czech P-82. But the pistol best set up for concealed carry is, far and away, the Polish P-64. Here is what you need to know about the P-64.
The Polish People’s Army stuck with Soviet-designed long guns for much of the Cold War. The P-64 and P-83 pistols, however, are an interesting homegrown divergence.
Poland is unfortunately positioned geographically between East and West. That is reflected in their culture, policy prescriptions, and even their small arms. The Polish VIS pistol is arguably one of the best handguns of World War II despite its odd mix of Western and Soviet features. That trend continued when Poland fell behind the Iron Curtain after the war. The Soviets installed a regime in their image and armed this new state of Poland with Soviet weapons.
Communist Poland initially fielded the Soviet TT-33 semi-automatic pistol, but when the time came to standardize on the new Soviet 9×18 Makarov cartridge, the Russian-built Makarov pistol simply would not do. Poland sought a homegrown solution. In a land of internationalism, the Poles stayed true to their nation with the P-64 pistol.
The Polish Radom P-64.
Features
The Polish P-64 was made between 1964 and 1977 by Radom for both the police and the Polish People’s Army. The version made for police is chambered in the .380 ACP, with the military model chambered in the Soviet 9x18mm Makarov cartridge. Aside from having to use the Soviet round, the P-64 is a peculiar knock-off of a famous Western design—the Walther PPK.
The Radom P-64 is a hammer-fired handgun that falls in the class of double-action/single-action handguns. Like the PPK, the P-64 can be carried fully loaded with the hammer down and fired with a long press of the trigger. Subsequent shots are fired with a lighter trigger pull, as the hammer is automatically re-cocked by the slide.
To render the pistol safe, the de-cocker on the left side of the slide is depressed. This drops the hammer and deactivates the trigger. Pushing the de-cocker forward resets the trigger, allowing you to fire again from double-action mode.
The P-64 has similar controls to the PPK. The decocker is in a familiar place, as is the loaded chamber indicator above the hammer. The hammer itself is recessed, making the pistol easy to draw without snagging.
Another borrowed feature includes the P-64’s straight blowback design. It features a fixed barrel that retains a stout recoil spring and slide. The weight of the slide and spring is enough to keep the pistol closed until the bullet leaves the barrel. This factors into the use of the 9x18mm round, which was developed to be the most powerful cartridge one could use in an inexpensive blowback design.
The heel magazine release in action.
Ergonomics
Ergonomically, the P-64 is a grab bag of East and West. It features a small dovetailed rear sight and an equally dainty front sight separated by a milled plane to keep sun glare down. Like the PPK, there is no slide release. Instead, the pistol locks open on an empty magazine, and the pistol is reloaded by inserting a loaded magazine and racking the slide to release it. The familiar magazine release button is not seen on the P-64. Instead, a European-style heel release as seen on the Mak is used.
The P-64 even takes down like a PPK. Pull down on the trigger guard and turn it to the left or right. This allows you to draw the slide back and up over the barrel.
The P-64 is a dense all-steel handgun with a subdued blued finish and checkered plastic grips. Despite its weight, it is surprisingly compact. It sports a 3.3-inch barrel and an abbreviated grip that only accommodates a six-round single-stack magazine. That made it excellent for staff officers who seldom needed to shoot their guns seriously. But it was a hindrance to troops in the field who wanted a larger handgun with more rounds.
Service Life
The Radom P-64 served the Polish Army from 1964 until 1983. In that time, Radom prototyped two higher capacity replacements in the P-70 and P-78 pistols, but neither got off the ground. Production of the P-64 ceased in 1977, and the pistol was finally replaced by the P-83. The P-83 is a larger handgun with an eight-round magazine capacity and an enlarged hammer that makes it easy to pick out from the P-64.
Both the P-64 and P-83 have slowly been phased out of service in the 2000s, with many showing up in the Middle East. But the lion’s share was ultimately surplus to the consumer market in the United States. Exact numbers of the P-64’s production run are not known, but are estimated to be about 200,000 units.
Availability and Ammunition
For a time, the P-64 had a reputation as an excellent carry pistol for the money. As with all things surplus, P-64s flooded into the country at cheap prices, but once imports dried up, prices steadily increased as those who had them did not want to part with them.
The 9mm Makarov cartridge [left] is shorter and uses a wider .361 inch diameter bullet. It packs less punch than 9mm Luger [right], but is superior to .380 ACP.
The same compact size that doomed it as a service pistol turned out to be its greatest asset relative to other inexpensive handguns on the carry market in the 2000s. Demand for pistols like the P-64 and Makarov PM was such that 9mm Makarov ammunition is manufactured in an ever-expanding variety. The ammunition ranges from traditional steel-cased FMJ to brass-cased FMJ and even defensive loads from manufacturers like Hornady, Underwood, and Buffalo Bore.
The Polish P-64 as a Shooter
Although prices have risen, relative to the market, the P-64, as an older handgun in an oddball cartridge, can still be had. My particular P-64 was made in 1970 and worn hard on the right side, but it is mechanically perfect.
Recoil and handling can be subjective. What is unwieldy for one is workable for another. In the case of the P-64, the size is just large enough to master the 9mm Makarov cartridge in a blowback option. Recoil is sharp as all recoil energy is projected onto the metal backstrap and not soaked up like a locked breech pistol. But the 9mm Mak round is not too powerful. It is easy to get through a few magazines, but the web of the hand gets a bit sore after a box of fifty.
Recoil is somewhat exaggerated thanks to the short grip. The magazine comes with a pinky extension, but it is difficult to get a full firing grip, and the slide takes up more real estate over the frame, so there is less room for the support hand like a modern handgun.
To make matters more interesting, the double-action trigger pull is perhaps the toughest I have felt. It has a pull weight of about twenty pounds. The single-action pull has a little play but is deceptively light, as there is no tactile feedback from the trigger to know where you are in the trigger press.
That single-action press combined with the small sights makes for a surprisingly accurate combination when shooting at targets. At ten yards, it is not difficult to get hand-sized groups. At thirty-five yards, I could hit eight-inch steel plates and 1/2 D28 torsos without fail.
Aftermarket Options
For all its faults, the fixed-barreled P-64 is a real shooter, and for those looking to improve the shooting experience, there are options. Wolff offers spring sets that can lessen the trigger pull weight and mitigate recoil. Holster options vary from old surplus flap holsters to modern IWB Kydex options from Vedder and traditional leather options from Azula. Magazines and extra parts are purely surplus, so it is best to grab a few parts while you can if you are looking to press your P-64 into long-term service.
The Bottom Line
We are spoiled for concealed carry options, but the lower the price threshold, the more questionable the quality. Although age and parts availability count against the Polish P-64, it remains a solid option for those who are looking for a compact pistol but need something more substantial than the latest polymer .380. It also holds the distinction of being among the smallest handguns ever to pass military muster. With good ammunition and, perhaps, a change of springs, the P-64 remains ready to serve.
The Navy Seal 2000 is a tough tactical knife, while the SOG Seal Pup is a smaller, versatile option for outdoor and military tasks.
This article highlights three classic military blades that are still popular today. Outdoor enthusiasts, survival buffs, and active military personnel honor yesterday’s war heroes using these iconic tools!
Featuring blades specifically for military use, these tools play a crucial role in the armed forces. They serve as key tools for both combat and survival. These blades withstand the challenging demands of military operations. This makes them ideal for close-quarters fighting and practical uses in the field.
Different types of blades, like combat knives, bayonets, and tactical tools, are designed for durability and effectiveness. They cater to the varied needs of soldiers in different environments. Let’s examine some notable military blades. We will discuss what makes each one unique. We will also probe how they’ve evolved to support the men and women in uniform.
The M9 bayonet, produced by companies like Buck Knives, features a 7-inch stainless steel blade that’s highly resistant to corrosion and built to last.
Seal Military Blades
The SOG Navy Seal 2000 Knife was crafted specifically for the elite U.S. Navy SEAL forces. This knife can handle harsh conditions and performs excellently in combat and survival. It measures 12 inches overall and has a 7-inch blade that’s a solid 0.25 inches thick. Made from AUS-8 stainless steel and finished with a hard-cased black TiNi coating, it resists corrosion and stays sharp longer.
The Navy Seal 2000 delivers strength and reliability with a fixed blade design. This type of military blade, equipped with a Zytel handle, ensures a secure grip no matter the conditions. Its toughness and effectiveness make it a top pick for tactical challenges and survival use.
Seal Pup
The SOG Seal Pup knife is a compact and versatile choice designed for military personnel. It’s perfect for combat and everyday outdoor tasks. It measures 9.5 inches overall, with a 4.75-inch blade and a 0.19-inch thickness. Made from AUS-8 stainless steel it features a durable black TiNi finish.
The glass-reinforced nylon handle ensures a secure grip, even in wet conditions. Lightweight and easy to carry, the Seal Pup appeals to soldiers, outdoor enthusiasts, and survivalists alike. Among the military tools, Seal Pup and Navy Seal 2000 are known for their ruggedness and reliability. This makes them ideal for military and survival operations.
KA-BAR Military Blades
The KA-BAR 7-inch blade USMC Combat Knife has earned its reputation as a legendary military tool. Trusted by the United States Marine Corps since World War II, this knife symbolizes the courage and tenacity of Marines. It’s built to tackle both combat and survival scenarios effectively.
Crafted from 1095 high-carbon steel, the blade delivers impressive durability. It keeps its edge sharp, making it ideal for the demands of military life. A 7-inch blade length strikes an outstanding balance between durability and combat readiness. It’s useful whether you’re engaged in hand-to-hand combat or handling everyday tasks out in the field.
The United States Marine Corps has relied on the KA-BAR 7-inch blade Combat Knife since World War II. It’s become a go-to tool for Marines over the years.
One of the KA-BAR’s best features is its leather-stacked handle, which ensures a comfortable and reliable grip even when wet. The knife also includes a guard that prevents your hand from slipping during use, boosting safety in high-pressure situations. Plus, the sturdy leather sheath not only protects the blade but also adds a classic touch to its rugged look.
Even today, Marines and outdoor enthusiasts love the KA-BAR USMC Combat Knife. Its rich history, solid performance, and practical design make it a dependable military blade. It is ideal for those ready to face challenges head-on. Whether you find yourself on the battlefield or enjoying outdoor adventures, the KA-BAR captures the spirit of resilience and adaptability.
Ontario Pilot Survival Knife
The Ontario Knife Company’s Pilot Survival Knife packs a punch in a compact size. Known for its quality and durability, Ontario Knife Company crafted this iconic knife with aircrews in mind. This makes it a hit among pilots and outdoor fans.
Check out the Ontario Knife Company’s Pilot Survival Knife—this compact beast is all set to tackle your next adventure!
The knife features 1095 high-carbon steel, which gives it impressive edge retention and strength. Its leather-stacked handle feels comfortable and secure, even when wet. With a guard to prevent slips, this design enhances safety during use. Thanks to its compact and lightweight design, you can easily carry it clipped to a flight suit or tucked away in your backpack. Whether you’re camping, fishing, or tackling everyday tasks, this knife’s versatility shines through.
Although the Pilot Survival Knife might not carry the same legendary name as the KA-BAR, it certainly stands its ground. It remains a reliable and capable tool time after time.
Spring Grilling at its finest down south in Georgia! A variety of colors and tastes make for the best grilling.
The sun is shining, the birds are chirping, and backyard and Spring grilling is officially back on the menu. Whether you’re firing up the grill at home, packing a picnic for the park, or enjoying a campfire under the stars, there’s something magical about cooking outdoors.
Get out those tongs because it’s that glorious time of year again! The sun’s finally got some pep in its step, the days are stretching out like a cat in a sunbeam, and that primal urge to cook something delicious over an open flame is bubbling up.
Spring grilling isn’t just about food. It’s about shaking off the winter blues and returning outdoors. That smoky aroma drifting through the air? That’s the smell of freedom, my friends, seasoned with anticipation.
Backyard, Picnic, and Camp Grilling
Portobello Buns on these burgers for less carbs and more umami flavor!
The trusty backyard setup is a classic for a reason – easy access to the fridge and maybe even a comfy chair. You’ve got your weapon of choice there, be it a trusty charcoal kettle, a fancy gas grill with more knobs than a spaceship, or even one of those high-tech pellet smokers that practically cook dinner for you.
But don’t limit yourself! Spring begs for picnics in the park, where a portable grill becomes your trusty sidekick. Just remember the charcoal and maybe a friendly squirrel won’t try to steal your hot dogs. And for the truly adventurous, camping takes grilling back to its roots—the crackling campfire, a sturdy grill grate, and the satisfaction of cooking surrounded by nature.
Bonus points if you channel your inner pioneer and try cooking on a flat rock (just make sure it’s clean, folks!).
Fire and Coals
Let’s talk fire, the soul of any good Spring grilling session. You’ve got your fuel options, each with its own personality. Charcoal briquettes are the reliable workhorses, while lump charcoal brings that wild, unpredictable heat. Wood chunks or chips add a smoky kiss to your food, turning a simple burger into a flavor explosion.
Gas grills? They’re the instant gratification gurus. They offer precise temperature control for the impatient Spring griller. And pellet grills? They’re the sophisticated cousins, delivering consistent heat and that coveted wood-fired taste with minimal fuss.
Getting that fire right is key. Whether coaxing coals to that perfect ashy glow or dialing in the degrees on your gas beast, mastering the heat is your path to Spring grilling glory.
It’s hard to beat corn on the cob while charred in the husks.
Pro tip: create different heat zones—one hot for searing, one cooler for gentle cooking—like a culinary chess master.
What tools Do You Need for Spring Grilling?
Alright, gearheads, let’s talk toys! First, safety—nobody wants a trip to the emergency room instead of a delicious dinner. Grab some sturdy grill gloves or mitts; those grates get hotter than a summer sidewalk in July. Long-handled tongs and spatulas are your trusty extensions, keeping you at a safe distance while you flip like a pro. And a good grill brush? Essential for scrubbing away the sins of grilling past.
Beyond the basics, a basting brush lets you slather on those flavor-packed sauces, and a meat thermometer is your best friend in the fight against dry chicken. Spring grilling can be rough! Skewers turn anything into a fun, handheld feast, and a grill basket keeps those delicate veggies from falling into the fiery abyss.
Don’t forget the prep squad: a solid cutting board, a sharp knife, and something to marinate your masterpieces in.
Kebabs serve as a delightful canvas for your culinary creativity. Pile them high with vibrant vegetables and tender pieces of meat for a tasty treat.
What to Cook While Spring Grilling
Finally, the main event: what gloriousness are we throwing on those hot grates?
You can’t go wrong with burgers and hot dogs, which are always crowd-pleasers, the reliable MVPs of any grill session. But spring begs for more! Think juicy steaks sizzling to perfection, chicken infused with zesty marinades, and flaky fish that practically melts in your mouth. Skewers (kabobs) are your canvas. Load ’em up with colorful veggies and succulent chunks of meat.
The flames slightly char your Asparagus, and sweet corn and bell peppers burst with smoky sweetness. Even fruit gets a place on the grill. Try peaches or pineapple for a surprisingly delicious dessert. Get creative! Try grilled pizza. And for those lazy evenings? Foil packet meals are your cleanup superheroes—just toss ’em on the coals and let the magic happen.
Spring grilling is your culinary playground, so fire up that grill and get playing!
The Second Amendment right to keep and bear arms is the only portion of the Bill of Rights that some politicians want to limit to only those 21 years of age and older. And two pro-rights organizations are currently battling for young adults court.
At the same time, the Second Amendment Foundation is suing Connecticut over its law banning handgun ownership by adults under 21, the National Rifle Association is asking the U.S. Supreme Court to hear its case challenging Florida’s law that doesn’t allow 18-, 19-, and 20-year-olds to purchase rifles and shotguns.
Connecticut In The Crosshairs
On May 18, Succow v. Bondi argued that age-based gun bans violate the Second Amendment rights of lawful adults who are under 21 years of age. The Connecticut Citizens Defense League (CCDL) and two individuals, Samuel Towne and Zachary Succow, are also plaintiffs in the action.
The complaint argues that states can’t simply deprive 18-, 19-, and 20-year-old citizens of one constitutionally protected right while recognizing them as adults as far as other rights are concerned.
“The Heller Court has explicitly recognized the handgun as ‘the quintessential self-defense weapon’ in the United States, and that a complete prohibition on their carry and use is necessarily invalid,” the complaint explains.
“But Defendants’ laws … and the related regulations, policies, practices, customs designed to implement the same, and Defendants’ continuing enforcement of them, prevent law-abiding, responsible adult citizens under age twenty-one— including Plaintiffs Succow and Towne, and the similarly situated members of Connecticut Citizens Defense League and the Second Amendment Foundation—from doing so, in violation of the Second and Fourteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution.”
Ultimately, Defendants are asking the court to make a declaratory judgment that the provisions of the law are unconstitutional on their face and, as applied to the plaintiffs, to issue a permanent injunction enjoining all law enforcement in the state from enforcing provisions of the law.
NRA & SCOTUS
Concerning the NRA lawsuit, the organization has asked the U.S. Supreme Court to take up a challenge to Florida’s restrictive law banning the sale of rifles and shotguns to adults under 21.
As the NRA pointed out in a recent news alert, Florida has completely banned 18- to 20-year-olds from purchasing a firearm of any kind for any purpose for seven years—a direct violation of Second Amendment rights.
As the petition explains, because of a split on the matter at the circuit court level, SCOTUS needs to hear this case to resolve that split.
“The federal courts of appeals are intractably divided over the constitutionality of laws that restrict the ability of 18-to-20-year-olds to acquire or carry firearms,” the petition says.
“Most immediately, while the Eleventh Circuit … upheld Florida’s ban on adults in this age group purchasing any firearm from any source, and a panel of the Tenth Circuit Court of Appeals recently upheld a similar Colorado age ban, a panel of the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals recently found unconstitutional the federal ban on 18-to-20-year-olds purchasing handguns from licensed dealers, in a decision that is directly and unequivocally in conflict with this one—and that the court below recognized and deliberately departed from.”
The Becker Necker is 6.75 inches long and has a 3.25-inch drop-point blade, ideal for precise cutting. It’s lightweight thanks to its skeletonized handle, and you can easily customize it with paracord or aftermarket scales.
Neck knives are small, lightweight blades that can be easily worn around the neck, making them super accessible. Outdoor lovers, hikers, and campers like these knives because they’re easy to carry and use for various tasks!
These small, lightweight knives can easily be worn around the neck for quick access. You can use them for various tasks, including cutting rope, opening packages, preparing food, and even emergency self-defense. Military personnel and law enforcement officers highly favor these knives because they require a dependable and easily accessible blade.
Neck knives provide versatility and practicality for anyone who spends time outdoors or needs a reliable blade for work and play.
Necker Pros:
Ease of access: Neck knives, hanging ready around your neck, offer quick accessibility in emergencies, allowing for rapid deployment for self-defense or other uses.
Concealed carry: Like firearms, they hide easily under clothing for discreet carry, giving you an advantage in dangerous situations.
Small size: Their compact and lightweight design makes them comfortable to wear without adding much bulk or weight.
Strength: Fixed blades are more durable than folding knives, with no moving parts that can break, providing better resilience under pressure.
Extra knife: Neck knives serve as a versatile backup during outdoor activities if your primary knife is lost or damaged.
Practicality: They are convenient when a waist-borne knife is unsuitable, such as when wearing a backpack or in tight spaces.
Neck knives are quickly accessible in emergencies, allowing for rapid deployment for self-defense or other uses.
Becker Necker
The KA-BAR Becker Necker (BK11), designed by Ethan Becker, offers reliability as a neck knife and showcases durability and versatility. This compact fixed-blade knife features tough 1095 Cro-Van steel, making it perfect for survivalists, hunters, and everyday carry fans who need a blade that withstands pressure.
Measuring 6.75 inches overall with a 3.25-inch drop-point blade, the Becker Necker is all about precision cutting and rugged performance. Its skeletonized handle keeps it lightweight, plus you can easily customize it with paracord or aftermarket scales. The flat grind gives you a sharp, dependable edge for slicing, carving, and everyday tasks.
The KA-BAR Becker Necker (BK11) features a lightweight skeletonized handle that can be customized, and includes a bottle opener on the butt for easy access to beverages.
The Becker Necker has a MOLLE-compatible polymer sheath and features an adjustable locking tab for easy carry. The TDI Metal Belt Clip lets you attach it to your belt, boot, or tactical vest for quick access. Wear it around your neck or mount it for easy reach. KA-BAR made this knife for convenience and top-notch performance.
Ethan Becker’s design philosophy emphasizes creating industrial-strength knives that “work for a living,” which the Becker Necker fully reflects. Compact, rugged, and ready for action, it’s the perfect neck knife tool for those who demand reliability in the wild.
The KA-BAR Becker Necker (BK11) is a trusty neck knife created by Ethan Becker. It’s famous for being tough and versatile.
Knives By Nuge
KBN is an exciting player in the knife-making scene. Their blades feature top-notch stainless steel and high-carbon steel. This combination provides a sharp edge that withstands everyday use and performs like a champ when needed. Plus, their designs come with ergonomic handles that ensure a comfortable, non-slip grip for safe handling.
If you’re looking for a practical, durable, dapper neck knife option, check out Knives By Nuge. The maker is passionate about his craft—he’s been using the same coffee mug for eight years! And he’s damn proud of it. Nuge personally designs the blades and handles. Each knife undergoes testing in real-world conditions to ensure top performance and striking good looks.
Remember Wicket?
The Wicket from Knives by Nuge cutting through rope using a chest-lever grip.
Only the coolest Ewok in the Star Wars universe—Wicket! The Wicket knife stands out for its compact size and impressive performance. A lot of fans rave about how reliable and convenient it is. With a thickness of .096 inches and a blade that measures 2.25 inches, it’s sturdy, practical, and super sharp. At 5 inches long overall, it fits comfortably in your hand.
You can choose between 80CRV2 High Carbon or Nitro-V steel for the blade, depending on what you get. Plus, it comes with a kydex sheath that protects you and the blade and makes it easy to access. If you’re slicing rope, preparing camp snacks, carving wood, or even fending off stormtroopers, the Wicket neck knife is the ideal tool for the job!
Neck Knives Summary
Neck knives are like your stylish sidekick—compact, lightweight blades that hang around your neck, ready for action in emergencies. Need to cut rope, open a package, or fend off an unexpected villain? These little heroes have your back. A neck knife is a practical backup and a fun conversation starter, perfect for outdoor adventures or everyday tasks!
I like it when knife companies get a little creative with naming their designs. Bedlam is a term that doesn’t get enough use, as far as I’m concerned. And it’s actually a pretty apt name for this knife, as when you use it, it’s sure to get attention.
This is a tactical-style knife that’s small enough for EDC. With its unique scimitar-shaped trailing point blade, it is an excellent slicer as well as eye-catching.
This is an incredible-looking knife. It has an overall length of 8.63 inches, with a blade that’s 3.45 inches long. There is a small thumb ramp with jimping on the spine just behind the thumb stud. Benchmade went with CPM S90V steel for the blade. This is a super steel that’s known for corrosion resistance. The blade has a graphite Cerakote finish.
The scimitar-style blade is very eye-catching as well as useful.
The handle material is G10. It’s contoured in such a way that it resembles snakeskin. The Mini Bedlam is also available in black G10 as well as carbon fiber. The black G10 model has a partially serrated blade.
There is a deep carry pocket clip with a lanyard attachment point just behind it. The pocket clip is reversible, so you can switch it for left-side carry.
The deep carry pocket clip is reversible. Just behind it, you can see the lanyard attachment point.
It’s equipped with Benchmade’s manual AXIS lock, providing a high level of security as you use the knife. While no lock is infallible, the AXIS design comes damn close. Once the lock is released, the blade can fall closed easily.
The Mini Bedlam weighs a modest 5.44 ounces. There’s enough weight to let you know it’s there, but not so much that you’ll find yourself with a list to starboard (or port) as you walk.
Mini Bedlam Performance
The Mini Bedlam is impressive. With its curved shape and textured G10 material, the handle locks into your grip amazingly well. Even in challenging conditions, this knife would be difficult to dislodge or slip away.
The blade swings open via the thumb stud. Interestingly, this can take a little practice with this particular knife. The curved handle makes reaching the stud and moving the blade a little awkward. But it only took a few minutes of repetition to get the hang of it.
The handle texturing is decidedly aggressive, but not uncomfortably so. I don’t wear gloves nearly as often as I probably should when I’m working with knives, but the Mini Bedlam gave me no trouble. There were no hot spots or other issues.
The Mini Bedlam arrived exceptionally sharp, and it retained that edge through several days of regular use. It worked great opening packages and breaking down boxes, as well as slicing sausage and cheese for a snack. The blade is thin, just 0.114-inch. Between that and the overall blade geometry, it’s a great tool for use in the camp kitchen as well as around the house.
While I’d probably avoid using it as a pry bar, it’ll handle just about anything else you want to throw at it. The Benchmade Mini Bedlam, as shown, retails for $350. Carbon fiber handle scales add another $100.
Duct tape, cordage, and super glue can fix many camp gear items, including tarps, clothing, tents, and gear.
If you’ve ever camped, you know camp repairs are inevitable. Things can break, tear, or wear down while you’re out camping, so having a minimal repair kit can save the day.
A solid repair kit keeps your gear in action and your trip running smoothly. It’s easy to assemble your own repair kit to tackle most camp catastrophes. It shouldn’t be much larger than a point-and-shoot camera case when you assemble it.
Check out these ideas:
Duct Tape – The ultimate fix-it tool for patching, reinforcing, and sealing.
Multi-Tool – Includes pliers, screwdrivers, and a knife for quick fixes.
Sewing Kit – Needle, thread, and fabric patches for gear repairs.
Zip Ties – Great for securing broken straps or gear.
Extra Cordage – Paracord or nylon cord for emergency fixes.
Super Glue – Quick repairs for small breaks.
A solid repair kit keeps your gear in action and your trip running smoothly.
Micro Camp Repairs Tool
The Swiss Tech Micro-Tech 6-in-1 Stainless Steel Multi-Tool is remarkably compact and lightweight, designed to attach directly to your keyring.
The Swiss Tech Micro-Tech 6-in-1 Stainless Steel Multi-Tool is remarkably compact and lightweight, designed to attach directly to your keyring. Don’t let its small size fool you—it provides six useful functions in a durable stainless steel body.
The Tools:
Pliers: These miniature pliers can help grip, bend, or manipulate small components during camp repairs.
Wire Cutter: Useful for snipping thin wires or even small cords you might encounter.
Wire Stripper: Can assist with necessary electrical repairs or modifications.
Sheet Shear: While less common for camp repairs, it could help cut thin materials like fabric or plastic sheeting in a pinch.
#2 Phillips Screwdriver: This is a common screwhead type found on camping gear, from tent components to electronics.
#2 Flat Screwdriver: Another frequently used screwdriver for various adjustments and repairs.
For camp repairs, the Micro-Tech 6-in-1 excels in addressing minor issues due to its portability and the inclusion of essential screwdrivers and pliers. Imagine a loose screw on your tent pole, a wobbly lantern fixture, or needing to make a slight adjustment to your camp stove – this tool actively provides the means to tackle these problems without needing to rummage through a larger toolkit.
Its keychain attachment ensures it’s always readily available, making it a convenient first line of defense against minor gear malfunctions in the field. While not designed for heavy-duty tasks, its compact versatility can be surprisingly helpful for keeping your campsite functioning smoothly.
Electronic Camp Repairs
Headlamps, lanterns, and video cameras often need a screwdriver for battery replacement and internal adjustments. A camera tripod can also benefit from a multi-tool to tighten screws that secure the camera mount or adjust legs on uneven surfaces.
Screwdrivers are essential for mounting and fine-tuning gun scopes, making a dedicated gunsmithing screwdriver set valuable. These sets include various screw and torque bits designed to preserve screws and avoid damage to surrounding surfaces, which is crucial for maintaining firearm integrity and performance.
A small keyring multi-tool can replace a damaged pot handle and provide a strong grip while tightening knots.
Common Repairs and Quick Fixes
Tent Tears & Leaky Seams: Small rips or worn-out seams can let water in. A patch kit or seam sealer keeps your shelter waterproof.
Broken Zippers: Stuck or damaged zippers on tents, sleeping bags, or jackets can be a hassle. A wax stick or multi-tool helps loosen them up.
Waterproofing: Reapply silicone spray or seam sealer to tents and rain gear for better protection.
Leaky Sleeping Pads: A patch kit seals small punctures so you don’t wake up on the cold ground.
Loose Stove Parts: A multi-tool with screwdrivers helps tighten connections and keep your cooking setup functional.
Make a little kit to tackle those pesky camp repairs and keep the good times good!
The pistol and gear requirements for Defensive Performance Handgun aren’t too strict. Since the course focuses on performance shooting in the context of civilian self-defense, shooting from concealment is a requirement. Students are welcome to shoot from any of the primary concealed carry positions as long as they’re safe in their firearms handling.
This class and its exercises are built around medium to full-size modern service pistols, and students who shoot micro-compacts ought to make sure that their pistol has a capacity of over 10 rounds. Otherwise, keeping up with the course can be challenging and counterproductive.
As long as I’ve been training with McGuire, whether independently or with Green Ops, I’ve known him to shoot a full-size Smith & Wesson M&P 2.0 5-inch Performance Center model with a Trijicon SRO and an Apex Tactical FSS “Flattie” aftermarket trigger—probably the best related performance trigger upgrade currently on the market.
Glock 34 x Arise Mfg. Aegis Red-Dot Shroud
The timing between The Way Forward’s Defensive Performance Handgun class and my last class, Gabe White’s Pistol Shooting Solutions, was roughly a month apart between February 2025 and early March 2025.
Even though the Walther PDP Pro-X PMM was still very “fresh” in my recent muscle memory after just having put it through the ringer in Gabe White’s class, and it would have been the sensible choice to bring to McGuire’s class, I opted to primarily shoot my Gen5 Glock 34 in Defensive Performance Handgun.
Running the Glock 34
Admittedly, I don’t shoot my Glock 34s all too much. The impetus for taking it to this course was not only to remedy this, but also because I wanted to continue shooting the Arise Mfg. Aegis Optics Shroud on this pistol; this specific Glock 34 wears the Trijicon SRO-compatible Aegis shroud, which I originally mounted back in December of 2024. Read that write-up here.
I’m glad I switched pistols up between both of these intensive classes because I was able to see firsthand that while it is inconvenient to “switch platforms” it’s also not the end of the world. Nor, does it take too long to acclimate to another dot and model (at least for me, anyway).
In short, while the more neutral grip angle of the Walther PDP presents better with a dot, worrying about the Glock’s more acute angle for target presentation is much ado about nothing, especially when shooting with deliberateness. As expected, I had no issues with my Glock 34 from a reliability standpoint, and nothing on the Arise Mfg. Aegis shroud shifted either.
Given that I was shooting from concealment and carrying this Glock 34 as my actual CCW before and after the class, I did notice that the extra room that the shroud takes up can affect the user experience when carrying concealed, but this is a minor gripe. These shrouds seem best at home on guns that live on open belt holsters, but it isn’t the end of the world either.
The SIG-Sauer P365 FUSE
Since I had an upcoming review due on the SIG-Sauer P365 FUSE at the time, I folded it into Defensive Performance Handgun and shot it for the first half of the second training day.
This afforded me the chance to shoot the gun and keep breaking it in (I found that my FUSE worked more smoothly after the first 200 rounds). Likewise, it also gave me the chance to work with the SIG-Sauer P365 FUSE and its Romeo-X red-dot from concealment in the context of a defensive pistolcraft course—this was certainly helpful in cultivating the insights that went into my review.
We even captured some footage of me shooting the “retreating” Bill Drill with the pistol that morning. I am duly pleased with this particular pistol.
Matt McGuire’s Training Background
In addition to being a veteran of the US Marine Corps, McGuire is a fixture in the Central Texas training scene, especially given his past involvement as the Green Ops Texas Director of Training. Anyone who has followed my training-related articles (especially those that pertain to training with Green Ops) here on GATDaily.com will recognize his name. He’s been present as an instructor in some capacity at every Green Ops course I’ve attended.
Both he and I are well-acquainted at this point, and I’ve had numerous opportunities to observe him in his element as an instructor. I’ve cultivated lots of great information from his teaching on the Kalashnikov, AR carbines, handguns, and accurized gas guns. Suffice it to say that McGuire carries a great deal of knowledge and understanding vis-à-vis the small arms and defensive firearms that are the most relevant to defense-minded citizens in the United States.
Matt McGuire instructing a Green Ops handgun course at The Ranch in Dilley, Texas.
Training-wise, Matt McGuire has spent a great deal of time training with notable firearms instructors and trainers around the country throughout his adult life. Besides McGuire’s involvement with Green Ops since 2020, he’s a Scott Jedlinski Modern Samurai Project-endorsed shooting instructor and a Tom Givens Rangemaster-certified instructor.
All in, he possesses well over 1300 hours of private training instruction. As part of his services under the new The Way Forwardbanner, McGuire offers personalized 1-on-1 coaching in the San Antonio area in addition to online coaching for shooting and or getting the most from the ACE VR virtual shooting training aid.
The Takeaway
Author with SIG-Sauer P365 FUSE in action.
The meat and potatoes of Defensive Performance Handgun, and in my opinion, its greatest value, lies in the opportunity for students to physically put in work by drilling and repping under McGuire’s watchful eye. Throughout both days, but especially on Training Day 2, the entire group had ample opportunities to participate in drills and exercises that involved drawing, moving, and shooting.
Besides shooting and moving, students also shot at varying distances and navigated around obstacles and barriers. I’ve said this previously in other articles about defensive pistol courses, but more of these courses need more shooting and moving. So, I’m glad to see McGuire developing his curriculum towards the “correct” and useful trend.
Ultimately, the prospective student who signs up for this course needs to be ready to lock in and commit to both days of training intensely and diligently. Like many things in life, one gets out what they put in, and the same is true for taking Defensive Performance Handgun.
Defensive Performance Handgun Extra Picture Gallery
These four handy keychain and pocket/hat flashlights from Olight, Thrunite, Streamlight, and Osight offer value and illumination running on a AAA battery!
Light the way with these four must-have EDC utility keychain flashlights! Each compact and rugged light is designed for ultimate convenience, ensuring you’ll never be in the dark. These little powerhouses are easy to carry, perfect for on-the-go adventures. Don’t let the shadows hold you back—light your path and stay prepared for whatever comes your way!
The Olight i3E EOS is a compact, powerful keychain flashlight designed for everyday carry. It features a high-performance Philips LUXEON TX LED and a PMMA TIR lens, delivering bright, focused light that reaches a considerable distance. Powered by a single AAA battery, it offers an extended runtime. The twist-head activation ensures easy operation, while its anodized aluminum body provides impact resistance and waterproofing for durability in harsh conditions.
You get a maximum output of approximately 90 lumens. Its runtime with a single AAA battery is around 16 hours on the lowest setting. This combination of brightness and longevity makes it a reliable choice for everyday carry. The Olight i3E EOS is lightweight and small, ideal for keychain carry, emergency lighting, outdoor use, and everyday convenience.
The Two Sisters
Olight and Osight are sister brands belonging to the same parent company but operate independently. Olight focuses on mobile lighting products like flashlights and tactical lights, while Osight specializes in firearm aiming devices, particularly red dot sights. Osight officially began in 2021 in response to customer demand for high-quality, affordable optics, and it launched as a separate brand in 2025. So while they share a connection, they have distinct product lines and brand identities.
I got the Osight version of the Olight i3E EOS at SHOT Show 2025. It’s a compact, powerful keychain flashlight nearly identical to its sibling. A AAA battery powers it, and the twist-head activates it.
While this might be a promotional item, Osight might add it to its lineup, which covers everything from firearms to EDC keychain carry! Either way, it will light the way!
Mini Keychain illumination slightly larger than a AAA battery.
Thrunite Ti2
The Thrunite Ti2 is a compact, durable keychain flashlight designed for everyday carry. Made from aerospace-grade aluminum with a hard anodized finish, it offers excellent resistance to wear and corrosion. It features a CREE XTE LED, producing a bright, focused beam with a simple twist-head activation for easy operation. Powered by a single AAA battery, it delivers reliable performance with an impressive output of 120 lumens without needing onboard charging. If this doesn’t light the way, check your battery!
This flashlight is ideal for keychain carry, emergency lighting, and outdoor use, thanks to its shockproof and waterproof design. Its lightweight and small size make it convenient for daily use, ensuring you always have a dependable light source!
EDC Travel
This little gem has been on my EDC Griffin Pocket Tool EDC key fob for about three years and counting. It has been to several countries and has illuminated my backpack, airplane aisles, and the streets abroad while traveling. It is durable and doesn’t eat up your battery like a hungry hippo!
Streamlight Microstream
The Streamlight MicroStream is a compact, reliable pocket flashlight designed for everyday use. It features a C4 white LED that delivers 45 lumens of bright light with a 41-meter beam range. The two-way pocket clip allows for secure attachment to a pocket or a hat, providing hands-free lighting when needed. Powered by a single AAA battery, it runs for 2.25 hours, making it a convenient and efficient lighting tool for daily use.
These four practical flashlights, designed for keychains or to fit in pockets and hats, provide great value and brightness, all powered by a AAA battery!
Lighting Up Camp
This is my go-to light for camp and outdoor hikes. However, it’s a battery eater. I love the convenience of the push button, spot checker light when walking short distances, or answering nature’s nighttime call. It’s large but bright, reliable, and easy to feel in the dark. While it’s not as mini as the others, I won’t camp without it!
