Preparing the Military for Future Threats

The Center For Vision & Values

Grove City, PA --(Ammoland.com)- With breaking news of a U.S. Navy SEAL team successfully rescuing two hostages from pirates in Somalia, military pundits are quick to note how the deployment of small, elite units will fit in with President Barack Obama’s vision for modernizing the U.S. military.

Yet, while small, elite units are indeed crucial to the modern military, so too is a balance of force structures, doctrines, and technologies appropriate to a variety of challenges. At the strategic level, preparing for 21st-century threats means thinking holistically on a global scale.

First, we must define the threats. China and Russia present the greatest long-range threat to U.S. national security interests. More immediately, the threat issues from a nuclear-armed Iran, especially if Tehran’s alliances extend beyond Syria to North Korea, Venezuela and —not unthinkably at some point— a drug-cartel dominated Mexico. At another level, insurgencies and civil wars in Africa and South America are likely to continue. Additionally, threats from international terrorism, in some cases allied with the four rogue states cited above and, possibly, criminal cartels, enlarges the threat profile.

With the withdrawal of U.S. forces from Iraq and the current winding down of our presence in Afghanistan, the Army seems to be sending mixed messages about its future. While the Navy and Air Force have formulated an air-sea concept for meeting future threats from major powers or would-be regional hegemons like Iran, the Army struggles with how to recapture the conventional war-fighting concepts and skills lost or, at the least, degraded during the last decade.

In a way, the present harkens back to the immediate aftermath of the Vietnam conflict when the predominant attitude was, “We ain’t doing that again.” Attention turned to more conventional forms of warfare attendant to stopping a Soviet attack at the Fulda Gap during the era of Air-Land Battle. The reality is, counterinsurgency, irregular warfare, and terrorism are not going away. U.S. national security strategy must, therefore, indulge in a delicate balance of priorities to meet a full range of threats, or we face total defeat at the high end of the spectrum on the one hand, or death by a thousand cuts through inappropriate organization, doctrine, and training at the lower end.

China —and to a lesser extent Russia— and perhaps North Korea and Iran, demand a strategy built around force projection over long distances.

That means investment in high tech (and high cost) systems like aircraft carriers, long-range submarines, and attack aircraft. The high cost of these systems, however, is a plus. Government spending on defense means good jobs for highly skilled workers that will stimulate the economy by boosting both production and service-industry jobs to employ the less skilled. The technological fallout from research on (needed) high-tech weapon systems will infuse new vitality into American leadership in a wide variety of fields from electronics to automotive engineering. In short, build more warships, submarines, and high-tech fighter planes like the F-22 and F-35, along with 20 to 40 more B-2s to replace the B-52s in our inventory. We should also look at the stealth bomber for the period beyond 2040.

The most likely scenarios involving the Army and Marine Corps will be in areas of global instability, most notably Africa. These can be met with special operations forces and with highly deployable brigades capable of unleashing overwhelming firepower on any potential threats to U.S. interests or to our allies. The role of the Reserve components will remain important should a conflict become more protracted, requiring a longer-term employment of ground forces. The added capabilities inherent in air power and precision strike from the air, space or sea will prove critical in diminishing the conventional capabilities of any mid-range threat that might result from an Iran or similar forces.

To be unprepared for threats ranging from pirates to major powers is a threat to our nation and its economic prosperity. The alternative will be protracted conflict coupled with increasing subservience to entities with the will to dominate.

— Dr. Earl Tilford is a military historian and fellow for the Middle East & terrorism with The Center for Vision & Values at Grove City College. A retired Air Force intelligence officer, Dr. Tilford earned his PhD in American and European military history at George Washington University. From 1993 to 2001, he served as Director of Research at the U.S. Army’s Strategic Studies Institute. In 2001, he left Government service for a professorship at Grove City College, where he taught courses in military history, national security, and international and domestic terrorism and counter-terrorism.

© 2012 by The Center for Vision & Values at Grove City College. The views & opinions
expressed herein may, but do not necessarily, reflect the views of Grove City College.

It’s All About the Guns - Battleship Firepower

Battleship NORTH CAROLINA

WILMINGTON, NC --(Ammoland.com)- Learn about and explore the Battleship’s 16-inch and 5-inch guns from the gun houses to the ammunition loading compartments; the 40mm and 20mm guns, and the weapons that they replaced (1.10 and 50 caliber guns).

The finest guns are of little use without the means to direct their fire accurately at the target.

Presenters will discuss the various types of fire control equipment (directors/optical range finders, radar, computers) and how main and secondary battery plotting rooms and the combat information center operated. Participants will enjoy a lively, engaging, in-depth program with presentations, hands-on experience, and serious exploration for adult learners.

The program is for adults only (ages 16 and up) and limited to 40 participants. It is not appropriate for those who may have difficulty climbing narrow ladders. Wear warm, comfortable, washable clothing, sturdy, rubber-soled shoes and bring a camera! Registration and payment are due by Thursday, February 16, 2012. Event is $95; $85 for Friends of the Battleship or active military. Program includes a box lunch. Call 910-251-5797 for reservations.

Battleship NORTH CAROLINA's 16-inch gun house.

February 26 from noon until 10:00 PM, the Azalea Coast Amateur Radio Club will operate from the Battleship North Carolina during the North Carolina QSO Party. This annual “HAM RADIO” event allows amateur radio operators worldwide to contact as many of North Carolina’s 100 counties as possible. The Battleship (NI4BK) is one of four stations worth “extra points” if contacted.

The Club will communicate by voice through the Ship’s original cabling and antennas. Morse code communications will originate from the TDE transmitter, placed in service aboard the Battleship in 1944, and restored to operating condition by Club members in 2005, after a 50+ year slumber. Contact for the event is club member and battleship volunteer, Jack Jacobs, who may be reached at 791-1566 or wd4oin@arrl.net. For other club activities aboard visit http://ac4rc.org/default.htm.

Interested in more details of the magnificent World War II vessel? March 7, 2012, the Battleship will present the Power Plant Tour. This in-depth program will give details about the ship’s boilers, turbines and reduction gears, steam and diesel powered service turbo generators, along with electrical distribution, water distillation, and steering mechanisms. Also, October 13, go behind the scenes of the Battleship and explore un-restored areas not open to the public. For more information on these programs or to learn more about the new Professional Military Education Program (PME) please call 910-251-5797.

The Battleship NORTH CAROLINA is self-supporting, not tax supported and relies primarily upon admissions to tour the Ship, sales in the Ship’s Store, donations and investments. No funds for its administration and operation come from appropriations from governmental entities at the local, state or federal levels. Located at the junction of Highways 17/74/76/421 on the Cape Fear River. Visit www.battleshipnc.com or follow us on Facebook.com/ncbb55 and Twitter.com/battleshipnc for more information.

Kryptek Outdoor Camouflage Patterns

Kryptek Outdoor Group

Fairbanks, AK --(Ammoland.com)- Kryptek Outdoor Groups Law Enforcement Armed Forces (L.E.A.F.) division headquartered in Fairbanks, Alaska has been selected to an elite group of finalists approved by the Secretary and the Chief of Staff of the Army to have its camouflage patterns further evaluated during 2012 — bringing the company an important step closer to its goal of becoming an official camouflage pattern provider for all branches of the U.S. military.

In the U.S. Army’s search for a family of camouflage patterns that will prove effective across myriad environments, the selection process required each participating company to submit a family of patterns (desert, woodland and transitional), along with a single coordinated pattern for the Organizational Clothing and Individual Equipment (OCIE). According to a news release from the Program Executive Office (PEO) Soldier, finalists “were chosen following a rigorous technical evaluation backed by solid scientific analysis and incorporating critical Soldier input from the field.”

Kryptek Outdoor Camouflage Solider

The patterns provided by Kryptek and selected for further evaluation are the company’s high-tech Nomad, Highlander and Mandrake, each developed to provide users with extreme stealth in specific environments and challenging conditions.

Like all Kryptek camouflage patterns and gear, these were developed for tactical users and hardcore hunters based on the extensive battlefield and Special Ops experience of the company’s principals and pro staff. This background contributed to Kryptek’s formation of its Law Enforcement and Armed Forces (L.E.A.F.) division; created to serve the performance-based apparel needs of law enforcement, armed forces, first responders, homeland defense and other government agencies.

Now that it has reached this important selection milestone, these Kryptek patterns will be put to the test — literally — by the U.S. military. During its Fiscal Year 2012, the Army will put these patterns through continued rigorous computer analysis, evaluations and field trials over an estimated nine-month period.

“To have met the scrutiny of military testing and be selected in this final group of four is a significant achievement and an honor in itself,” said Kryptek CEO Butch Whiting, an 11-year veteran of the U.S. Army who served in Afghanistan and Iraq and received two Bronze Stars among other recognitions.

“We are extremely confident in the effectiveness of our patterns. They will continue to excel through the phase II field-testing. Kryptek camo will provide users with enhanced lethality, survivability and overall success. There is simply nothing else as effective as Kryptek out there, whether you are on the battlefield or in the backcountry,” added Whiting.

For more information about Kryptek’s camouflage patterns and its line of military-bred technical clothing, contact Kryptek at P.O. Box 10652, Fairbanks, AK 99710 • Or visit www.kryptek.com.

Brownells.com

Des Moines, Iowa – -(Ammoland.com)- Brownells proudly announces that they are growing the company to develop even stronger relationships with Federal, State and Local Government agencies including Military, Law Enforcement, Private Security and other industry leaders.

To support the effort, the company is developing a sales team consisting of both outside and inside personnel tasked with supporting these customers. Interested sales professionals can learn more about the opportunity at www.BrownellsCareers.com

Steve Denny, GM of the Law Enforcement Division, will lead the new Government Programs and Sales Division.

“The effort is aimed at providing an even higher level of customer service and building stronger relationships to better support our customers,” Denny said.

Denny also emphasized that the Government Programs and Sales Division will provide this customer group a personalized connection to all of Brownells wide variety of products and services including their industry-leading tech staff, armorer’s classes, and the training programs associated with their Brownells Training Group. The Sales staff will work one-on-one with each customer to assure they are getting what they need when they need it.

Founded in 1939, Brownells supplies more than 50,000 firearms parts, accessories, gunsmithing tools and ammunition to agencies, departments, individual officers, gunsmiths, and shooters worldwide. Brownells provides free tech help and there’s no minimum order size or small order fees. To place an order, or for more information, call 800-741-0015 or visit www.brownells.com or www.policestore.com and mention code PIO

About:
At Brownells Everything is Guaranteed period! Forever, 100%, with no restocking fees. Brownells is the world’s largest supplier of firearm parts, gunsmithing tools, ammunition, reloading equipment and accessories. Stocking more than 50,000 items, the company supplies armorers, gunsmiths, and shooters worldwide. All of their products are backed by a 100% satisfaction, unconditional, lifetime guarantee. For more information, or to place an order, call 800-741-0015 or visit Brownells.com

ATK

MINNEAPOLIS, Minn --(Ammoland.com)-ATK (NYSE: ATK) has received an order valued at more than $58.7 million from the U.S. Army Contracting Command, Direct Fire Munitions Branch, Rock Island Contracting Center (RICC), Rock Island, Ill., to produce multiple variants of 20mm PGU-series ammunition.

This is the third order under a contract originally signed in September 2008. If all options are exercised, ATK’s contract is expected to exceed $170 million by 2013.

ATK will produce PGU-27A/B Target Practice (TP), PGU-30A/B Target Practice-Tracer (TP-T), PGU-28A/B Semi-Armor Piercing High Explosive Incendiary (SAPHEI) ammunition, a PGU-28A/B SAPHEI and PGU-30A/B TP-T linked configuration, and a PGU-27A/B TP and PGU-30A/B TP-T linked configuration. These cartridges are used on the U.S. Air Force’s F-15 and F-16, the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps F-18, and the U.S. Marine Corps Cobra AH-1 helicopter.

ATK’s suite of 20mm ammunition provides cost-effective, ballistically-matched training rounds for improved warfighter performance, as well as tactical rounds that offer the accuracy, lethality and penetration capabilities necessary to effectively defeat today’s threats.

“We are proud of the role our medium-caliber munitions play in maintaining military readiness,” said Dan Olson, Vice President and General Manager, ATK Integrated Weapon Systems. “ATK is a preferred provider of medium-caliber ammunition solutions and we are committed to providing the broadest offering of highest quality ammunition to U.S. and allied forces worldwide.”

ATK’s Mesa, Arizona-based Integrated Weapon Systems Division was awarded the contract and will produce the ammunition at the Lake City Army Ammunition Plant in Independence, Mo. Delivery of the options rounds will begin in 2012.

ATK is an aerospace, defense, and commercial products company with operations in 22 states, Puerto Rico, and internationally, and revenues of approximately $4.8 billion. News and information can be found on the Internet at www.atk.com.

Revision Batlskin Head Protection System

Revision Eyewear

Montreal, QC, Canada --(Ammoland.com)- Revision Military, the recognized global leader in ballistic and laser eye protection, launches into the head protection arena with the introduction of its new Batlskin Head Protection System.

The first fully integrated and fully modular solution of its kind, the Batlskin Head Protection System combines groundbreaking technology and design, with new materials and innovative processes to deliver an all-new ballistic helmet shell, trauma liner, front mount, retention system, mandible guard and visor.

The result is a single, fully integrated system that provides excellent protection from blunt force, blast and ballistic threats, with a lightweight wearability for peak performance.

“The product of several years of research and development work, we’re proud to introduce the Batlskin system at a critical time. The unfortunate reality is that wartime head and face injuries are at an all-time high,” explains Jonathan Blanshay, CEO of Revision.

“The Batlskin Head Protection System not only makes radical leaps forward in helmet and liner technology; its integrated visor and mandible guard could also greatly reduce the incidence of traumatic brain injury (TBI) in blast situations. At the same time, the modular and scalable nature of this system provides soldiers with the unique ability to quickly armor-up and -down as the threat environment dictates.”

About the Batlskin Head Protection System Modular Components:

The Batlskin Lightweight Helmet uses advanced shell technology to achieve weight reduction while increasing ballistic performance. Its rigid construction is engineered to withstand blunt force, blast and ballistic threats.

Revision Batlskin Full System Hybridized layers of materials bonded through innovative manufacturing processes provide the next generation of combat helmet shells

• Enhanced ballistic performance, at minimum 20% lighter than current shells for long-wear comfort

The Batlskin Impact Liner uses dual foam technology for superior fit, comfort and impact absorption. Its multi-level design allows for cooling and stability while shim pads afford a custom fit.

• Exceeds EN 397, Canadian CG634 and U.S. ACH impact standards
• Lightweight, sweat-wicking materials offer superior comfort and wearability

The Batlskin Ergonomic Retention System employs one-handed adjustment buckles for ease of use and straight-line-force design for stability—even with night vision equipment.

Revision Batlskin with NVG

• Integrates with Batlskin head protection system ensuring no interference with communications equipment or when sighting a weapon
• Comfortable nape pad and cabretta leather-lined chin strap allow for superior wearability

The Patented Batlskin Multi-Purpose Front Mount allows for the rapid attachment of protection enhancing devices such as the Batlskin visor and mandible guard. Ingeniously, it also doubles as a universal NVG mount with a lightweight and durable construction for modern-day battlefield use.

• Provides excellent stability for NVG use and other surveillance devices
• Core piece that seamlessly integrates Batlskin visor and mandible guard

The Batlskin High-Threat Mandible Guard provides lightweight blunt force, blast and ballistic protection for the lower jaw. Its durable, low-profile design is engineered for rapid attachment and removal while on the fly.

• Seamlessly integrates with all Batlskin modular components even when sighting a crew served weapon
• Alternative polycarbonate or lightweight wire cage mandible guards available for different threat levels

The Batlskin Three-Position Visor provides blunt force, blast and ballistic protection, flawless optics and maximum field-of-view. Designed for quick donning and doffing while on the move, it is scratch, fog and chemical resistant.

• Locked, vented and up positions allow for full ballistic coverage, breathability & adjustability
• Visor frame, seal and arm ensure secure attachment to the helmet during blast overpressure stresses

Revision’s Batlskin Head Protection System makes its European debut at DSEi, taking place at the ExCeL London Centre in the UK, September 13-16, 2011. Its North American unveiling will take place at the AUSA Annual Meeting in Washington, DC, USA which runs October 10-12, 2011.

ABOUT REVISION
Revision develops and delivers purpose-built protective equipment for military use worldwide. The company, which began with eyewear, has expanded to face and head protection and continues to develop their capabilities for integrated, performance-enhancing soldier systems. To that end, Revision brings the most advanced expertise, state-of-the-art facilities and finest technical minds. Clients include the U.S. Department of Defense, the Canadian Department of National Defence, the Netherlands Defence Materiel Organization, the German Federal Defence Force and the UK Ministry of Defence. Privately owned and ISO 9001:2008 certified, Revision’s operational headquarters is located in Essex Junction, Vermont, USA, with additional offices in the Netherlands and Canada. For more information, visit www.revisionmilitary.com, write info@revisionmilitary.com, or call +1 514.849.1874.

Nitro-Chem Explosives Products

ATK

MINNEAPOLIS, Minn --(Ammoland.com)-ATK (NYSE: ATK) announced today that it has signed a long-term international distribution agreement for energetic products with the Polish manufacturer, Zaklady Chemiczne, known as Nitro-Chem.

“This agreement brings together our expertise in supply chain management and worldwide marketing and distribution of energetic materials with Nitro-Chem’s unique manufacturing capabilities,” said Kent Holiday, ATK Energetic Systems Vice President and General Manager.

“It helps diversify our business by facilitating our expansion into the commercial energetics market, and offers us growth opportunities in both the domestic and international markets.”

Under the terms of the agreement, ATK will market and distribute Nitro-Chem-produced explosives including TNT for both military and commercial applications.

Other explosive products and compounds, including boosters for commercial mining and construction, RDX, HMX, Comp B, and DNT, will also be distributed under the terms of the agreement.

ATK is an aerospace, defense, and commercial products company with operations in 22 states, Puerto Rico, and internationally, and revenues of approximately $4.8 billion. News and information can be found on the Internet at www.atk.com.

ATK

MINNEAPOLIS, Minn --(Ammoland.com)-Allied Forces Choose ATK’s Combat-Proven Bushmaster M242 and Mk44 Automatic Cannon Systems as Weapon of Choice for Ground Combat and Naval Programs.

ATK (NYSE: ATK) announced today a total of $12.6 million in new medium caliber cannon contracts. These awards will expand the company’s production of its battle-proven 25mm M242 Bushmaster and 30/40mm Mk44 Bushmaster Automatic Cannon systems.

ATK will manufacture both the 25mm M242 and the 30/40mm Mk44 automatic cannons at its facility in Mesa, Ariz. Delivery is scheduled to begin in early 2012 and will be complete by late 2015.

ATK’s family of medium caliber cannons are sold in more than 30 countries world-wide. They are the primary gun systems for the Bradley Fighting Vehicle, the Light Armored Vehicle, and the Apache Attack Helicopter. More than 11,000 25mm M242s are currently in service worldwide, and the 30/40mm Mk44 has become the weapon of choice for the world’s medium caliber fighting platforms – including ground combat vehicles, naval and aircraft applications.

“We are committed to providing the highest quality, most reliable medium caliber weapon systems to allied forces worldwide,” said Dan Olson, Vice President and General Manager, ATK Integrated Weapon Systems. “These awards reinforce our focus on international growth, as well as our position as a market-leader in the development and manufacture of these systems.”

ATK is an aerospace, defense, and commercial products company with operations in 22 states, Puerto Rico, and internationally, and revenues of approximately $4.8 billion. News and information can be found on the Internet at www.atk.com.

ATK

MINNEAPOLIS, Minn --(Ammoland.com)-ATK (NYSE: ATK) announced that it will participate as an exhibitor at the 2011 Defense & Security Equipment International (DSEi) in London.

ATK will highlight a variety of capabilities and programs at the show, which will be held at ExCeL international exhibition and convention centre in London from September 13-16, 2011. ATK is located in stand S7-305.

DSEi provides ATK an opportunity to highlight its growing capabilities in several business areas, including its affordable precision approach that combines GPS guidance and fuzing into one package, transforming conventional 155mm artillery projectiles and 120mm mortar cartridges into precision munitions. ATK will also feature its recently-upgraded AAR-47 missile warning system which now provides enhanced protection through the detection of smaller-caliber weapon fire and rocket propelled grenades.

ATK’s stand will include its Eagle Industries and BLACKHAWK! brand tactical gear and apparel for security, law enforcement and military personnel. In addition, ATK’s Federal Premium and Speer lines of ammunition will be featured, including long range precision rifle; barrier defeating; non-toxic; short barrel carbine; and law enforcement high performance handgun service ammunition.

DSEi will allow visitors to learn about ATK’s Advanced Anti Radiation Guided Missile (AARGM), fast becoming the air-to-surface weapon of choice for Destruction of Enemy Air Defense and strike missions. Also on display will be ATK’s Guided Advanced Tactical Rocket (GATR) for fixed, rotary-wing, and unmanned aircraft platforms. GATR is a laser-guided 70mm precision system delivering extreme accuracy against both stationary and moving targets.

Visitors will see ATK’s family of legacy and next-generation medium caliber Bushmaster® and automatic chain guns, ammunition, and integrated weapon systems. In addition, ATK will highlight its role as the leading supplier of U.S. and NATO small caliber ammunition, as well as Non-NATO munitions to U.S. and international security forces.

ATK will also feature fuzing solutions for air-dropped bombs and artillery projectiles in use around the world, tactical propulsion that includes technology to offer insensitive munitions (IM) capabilities to currently fielded systems, and lightweight composites for soldier systems.

Potential customers will have the opportunity to obtain information on ATK’s light gunship platform, which integrates intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) sensors, fire control equipment, air-to-ground missiles and rockets, as well as the ATK M230LF, a link-fed LW30mm gun system. The light gunship capability package is the latest addition to ATK’s Special Mission Aircraft product portfolio, which provides affordable, responsive and advanced capabilities to customer-preferred platforms. ATK’s expertise includes outfitting various aircraft — including Cessna Caravans, Lockheed Martin C-130s, Bombardier Dash-8s, Hawker Beechcraft King Airs and others — with integrated ISR capabilities, fire control equipment and air-to-ground capability for conducting responsive defense, counterinsurgency, and border surveillance and security missions.

Media interested in more information about ATK can visit the ATK stand or contact ATK’s on-site media representative: Amanda Covington (+1-801-678-9859). An online media kit is available at http://www.atk.com/DESi2011/ .

ATK is an aerospace, defense, and commercial products company with operations in 22 states, Puerto Rico, and internationally, and revenues of approximately $4.8 billion. News and information can be found on the Internet at www.atk.com.

ATI Breaks New Ground With The Triton Gun Stock Adapter System

American Tactical Imports

Milwaukee, WI --(Ammoland.com)- Advanced Technology International (also known as ATI), the leading manufacturer in gun stocks and firearm accessories announces the Triton Adaptor System.

ATI has developed the New Triton adaptor System based on customer feedback.

This break-through Triton Adaptor System is constructed of Military Type III Anodized, 6061 T6 Aluminum.

The Triton Adaptor System allows for quick and secure changes of rifle stocks for Mossberg, Remington and Winchester shotguns.

You can now easily mount stocks with no special tools, only an allen or torque wrench. This eliminates the need for extra adapters and tools. The angled, self aligning dovetail locking system is perfect for easy, secure installation. The dovetail locks to support the full weight of the firearm and full force of the recoil. Its interchangeable sling mount can be located to work for either left or right handed shooters. An additional spacer is included for when sling mounts are not in use. The Triton Adapter System is also available in packages and individual components.

• Constructed of Military Type III Anodized, 6061 T6 Aluminum
• Easily mount stocks with no special tools, only an allen or torque wrench
• Eliminates the need for extra adapters
• Angled, self aligning dovetail locking system for easy, secure installation
• Additional spacer for when sling mounts are not in use
• Also available in packages and individual components

ATI is located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin and is an ISO Certified facility complete with its own plastic mold injection plant consisting of state of the art robotic machinery. ATI has its own in-house tooling facility for a quick turn around on new product development. The testing facility, located in Iowa, warrants the safety and quality of ATI products, and is taking advantage of the advancements in synthetic polymer resin engineering. ATI’s guiding principles are to provide high quality gunstocks and accessories for a vast variety of rifles and shotguns, to produce economical priced products that never compromise quality, and develop products that are easy and safe to install onto your firearm. For more information on ATI or to view the all new ATI GunBuilder please visit www.ATIgunstocks.com.

ATI Talon Tactical Shotgun Stocks w/ Triton Mount System and Scorpion Recoil System

American Tactical Imports

Milwaukee, WI --(Ammoland.com)- Advanced Technology International, also known as ATI, is the premier manufacturer of leading-edge gunstocks and accessories for a wide variety or firearms and is thrilled to announce the release of the new and innovative products!

Be the FIRST to experience the dedicated research and development of the new high-quality products offered by ATI.

New for 2011 are the ATI Talon Tactical Shotgun Stocks with the New Triton Mount System and Scorpion Recoil System.

The Talon Tactical Stocks feature the new ATI Triton Mount System.

This system allows tactical changes for whatever the situation demands, from breaching doors to tactical close quarter responses. The Triton Mount System is CNC Machined from Military Grade 6061 T6 Aluminum. The Mounting System features an angled, self-aligning dovetail locking system for easy, secure installation. The Triton mount System allows the user the ability to switch from a Six Position Collapsible stock, to a Rear Pistol Grip in a matter of seconds. The Triton Mount System also includes interchangeable sling mounts for left and right-handed shooters, and an additional blank spacer for when a sling mount is not in use.

Also featured on the Talon Tactical Stocks is the New Scorpion Recoil System. The Scorpion Recoil System, which includes a new state of the art buttpad and recoil grip, is constructed of a brand new material. This material absorbs the initial shock wave, which is the felt punch of the recoil. The Scorpion Buttpad features a re-designed ergonomic shape to aid in comfort and impact absorption. The Scorpion Recoil Pistol Grip has a recoil pad built directly in the rear of grip providing the highest level of recoil absorption possible. The Scorpion Recoil System increases the shooter’s comfort, while reducing the muzzle lift. Shooting anything from a 3 ½” Magnum Turkey load to a Door Breaching Load can now be done with no pain being transferred to the shooter.

The Scorpion Recoil System also reduces the challenge to reacquire the target by minimizing the muzzle lift, and is not affected by chemicals, load size, or extreme temperatures.

The Talon Tactical Stocks can be purchased individually, or in packages. The Talon Tactical Six Position Stock with Triton Mount System and Scorpion Recoil System carries a MSRP of $99.99. The Talon Tactical Rear Pistol Grip with Triton Mount System and Scorpion Recoil System carries a MSRP of $44.99. The Talon Tactical Stock System, which includes both the Talon Tactical Six Position Stock and Talon Tactical Rear Pistol Grip, carries a MSRP of $134.99. Please visit www.ATIgunstocks.com for more information.

The Talon Tactical Shotgun Stocks will fit the 12 gauge Mossberg 500, 535, 590, and 835, the 12 gauge Remington 870 and Winchester 1200 and 1300. For part numbers to specific manufacturers and packages please visit www.ATIgunstocks.com.

About:
ATI is located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin and is an ISO Certified facility complete with its own plastic mold injection plant consisting of state of the art robotic machinery. ATI has its own in-house tooling facility for a quick turn around on new product development. The testing facility, located in Iowa, warrants the safety and quality of ATI products, and is taking advantage of the advancements in synthetic polymer resin engineering. ATI’s guiding principles are to provide high quality gunstocks and accessories for a vast variety of rifles and shotguns, to produce economical priced products that never compromise quality and develop products that are easy and safe to install onto your firearm. Be sure to ask for ATI products at your favorite sporting goods stores and watch for new products being offered by the leader in synthetic gunstocks. For more information about ATI and their products please visit www.ATIgunstocks.com or by calling 800.925.2522.

Revision Eyewear

Essex Junction, VT --(Ammoland.com)- Revision, the leading developer of ballistic protective eyewear for militaries worldwide, has secured a contract with the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) to supply its Land Forces with Revision’s Prescription Rx Carrier over the next five years.

It has an estimated value of up to $14 million during the life of the contract. Once prescription-filled, the Rx Carriers provide vision correction for troops who need improved vision in all environments – including laser-threat situations.

Prescription Carriers for US Troops

Revision’s Prescription Lens Carrier was selected for its interchangeable design and its high-impact ocular protection that has been demonstrated through the numerous testing procedures required by military standards.

“With the Prescription Lens Carrier, soldiers who require vision correction can have the advantages of ballistic protective eyewear in theatre, without compromising optical clarity or field-of-view, and without wearing cumbersome goggles or large-framed spectacles over their normal prescription eyewear. The rugged and customizable Rx Carrier allows all soldiers to perform at their best while being protected from ballistic, laser and environmental threats as the Rx insert fits snuggly behind the lenses of either the Revision Sawfly Spectacles or Desert Locust Goggles, the protective eyewear issued to thousands of U.S. troops,” said Dan Packard, Senior Vice President of U.S. Military Sales for Revision.

He went on to say, “The Directorate of Medical Materiel has recognized that battlefield vision correction is a necessity to allow for a soldier’s peak performance and the Rx Carriers fulfill this requirement. Revision is proud to have been awarded this contract.”

Revision’s Prescription Rx Carrier accommodates single vision prescriptions up to +/-11 and fits into the Revision Sawfly Spectacles, and Desert Locust®, Asian Locust, and Bullet Ant Goggles. Its secure press-fit design ensures that it is properly positioned every time and its rugged and ergonomically designed frame provides wide field-of-view and durability. Revision’s Prescription Rx Carrier meets ANSI Z87.1-2010 ballistic impact requirements and is on the Army Authorized Protective Eyewear List (APEL).

ABOUT REVISION
Revision develops and delivers purpose-built protective soldier equipment for military use worldwide. The company, which began with eyewear, has expanded to face and head protection and continues to develop their capabilities for integrated, performance-enhancing soldier systems. To that end, Revision brings the most advanced expertise, state-of-the-art facilities and finest technical minds. Clients include the U.S. Department of Defense, the Canadian Department of National Defence, the Netherlands Defence Materiel Organization, the Swiss Federal Department of Defence and the UK Ministry of Defence. Privately owned and ISO 9001:2008 certified, Revision’s operational headquarters is located in Essex Junction, Vermont, USA, with additional offices in the Netherlands and Canada. For more information, visit www.revisionmilitary.com, write info@revisionmilitary.com, or call +1 252-288-5805.

Left: Head Protection System with Ergonomic Retention System and Multi-Purpose Front Mount. Right: Fully integrated Head Protection System with ballistic Visor and high-threat Mandible Guard.

Revision Eyewear

Essex Junction, VT --(Ammoland.com)- Revision officially marks its expansion into the Soldier Systems helmet business with a significant 3-year contract to develop the U.S. Army’s next-generation head protection system.

The $1,990,340 award is for Revision to continue the design, development and demonstration of a modular and scalable headgear system for mounted and dismounted soldiers, and to mature it to a Technology Readiness Level 6.

The new system is intended to provide impact protection improvements over current generation helmets and the integration of electronics and power. It will also allow soldiers to tailor their protection level and operating equipment to the specific mission at hand.

“The current situation is that head-borne protection and functional capabilities have not been designed as an integrated platform using Soldier-centric design principles. This has prevented the optimization of weight, balance and sub-component integration” noted Don Lee, Project Engineer, Natick Soldier Research, Development and Engineering Center.

He went on to say, “This development contract supporting the Helmet Electronics and Display System – Upgradeable Army Technology Objective is expected to develop integrated headgear system technologies to include upgraded ballistic and impact protection, integrated CBRN mask, full face protection, and integrated heads-up display and sensor inputs for actionable information to Soldiers and Marines. We anticipate the final outcome will be tools and technologies that will allow the U.S. Army and USMC to field well-balanced, optimized headgear systems that will provide improved head protection, allow for increased situational awareness, and increased mission performance allowing our Soldiers and Marines to be the decisive edge on the battlefield.”

This new helmet design will integrate a trauma liner, communication system, heads-up display, CBRN mask and enhanced night vision goggles. The fully integrated and fully modular system will also feature a visor and mandible guard option designed to provide better blunt force, blast and ballistic protection than a helmet shell alone.

“As the nature of combat has changed, the type of trauma seen on the battlefield has also changed with increasing numbers of soldiers suffering from head and traumatic brain injuries, whether caused by blunt force, blast or ballistic impacts. Based on extensive head protection systems research and development, Revision believes it has the technological, scientific and impact testing knowledge to design a new helmet and head protection system that can help to reduce brain injuries while also providing lighter weight and superior ballistic head protection. The battle against soldier head injuries is on. Our aim is to develop the very best protection that new design, materials and processes can bring to those who are serving the country” said Jonathan Blanshay, CEO of Revision Military.

He continued, “Through the experience gained and global market-leading position achieved in a relatively short period of time with the eyewear business, Revision is confident that expansion into cutting-edge, integrated head protection systems for the military is a natural growth step. We are honored to have been selected for this crucial Natick developmental project.”

Revision’s contract announcement comes at a pivotal time in the company’s history. In late 2010, the company announced an official corporate name change—from Revision Eyewear Ltd. to Revision Military Ltd.—to encompass its new head protection business. In June 2011, the company began operations at its new, Composite Center of Excellence and later this fall, the company expects to launch Batlskin™, its first generation, fully integrated, modular soldier protection system.

ABOUT REVISION
Revision develops and delivers purpose-built protective soldier equipment for military use worldwide. The company, which began with eyewear, has expanded to face and head protection and continues to develop their capabilities for integrated, performance-enhancing soldier systems. To that end, Revision brings the most advanced expertise, state-of-the-art facilities and finest technical minds. Clients include the U.S. Department of Defense, the Canadian Department of National Defence, the Netherlands Defence Materiel Organization, the Swiss Federal Department of Defence and the UK Ministry of Defence. Privately owned and ISO 9001:2008 certified, Revision’s operational headquarters is located in Essex Junction, Vermont, USA, with additional offices in the Netherlands and Canada. For more information, visit www.revisionmilitary.com, write info@revisionmilitary.com, or call +1 252-288-5805.

B&D ExD-37 EXTREME DUTY TOP BREAK 37mm LAUNCHER

American Tactical Imports

ROCHESTER, NY --(Ammoland.com)- American Tactical Imports is proud to announce that they are offering the entire line of Bates & Dittus (B&D) products.

B&D is a relatively new company that brings exciting products to the industry. B&D specializes in 37mm launchers of several varieties including a pistol configuration (SML-37) and the new under barrel launcher (UBL-37).

In January, the company made a formal announcement that gave ATI exclusive worldwide rights to distribute all B&D products. Now, these products are stocked and ready for shipment through ATI.

B&D launchers are made of 6061 aircraft grade aluminum and 4140 hardened steel. They can handle 37mm ammunition including flares, smoke and pyrotechnic rounds for civilian use and batons, CS gas, rubber pellets and other less-than-lethal options for law enforcement and military.

The launchers in the B&D product lineup include:

• The Original, the Top Break Launcher, or TBL, comes in a number of possible configurations. Standard is a 12” barrel with a full-length upper Picatinny rail, and a 1x Red/Green dot laser sight. The TBL is a single action/exposed hammer launcher available with solid poly rifle style or telescoping stocks, horizontal or vertical foregrip, and 12” or 16” barrel length. Wood stocks are also available as an option. (B&DT12RSH, B&DT16RSH, B&DT16TSV, B&DT16RSV, B&DT16TSH, B&DT12TSH, B&DT12WSW and B&DT16WSW)
• The Survival Mate Launcher, or SML, is the pistol configuration 37mm launcher, offered in 6” and 12” barrel lengths. The latter comes equipped with a vertical foregrip. (B&DSML6 and B&DSML12)
• The Extreme Duty Top Break, or ExD-37, caters to law enforcement and military and is intended to function consistently with training tactics; it is DAO with an internal hammer and approximately a 15 lb. trigger pull and available in 12” and 16” lengths, both with a custom aluminum vertical foregrip. (B&DE12CSV and B&DE16CSV)
• The Under Barrel Launcher, or UBL, is the B&D recreation of the M-203. It has a 12” barrel with a full-length upper Picatinny rail for attachment to a Picatinny rail-equipped AR-15 style weapon such as the AT-15, distributed by ATI. (B&DUBL37)

For more information regarding American Tactical Imports please visit www.americantactical.us

Revision Tan 499 Desert Locust Goggle Kit

Revision Eyewear

Essex Junction, VT --(Ammoland.com)- Revision, leading developer of protective eyewear for militaries worldwide, introduces the Tan 499 Desert Locust Goggle Kit with enhanced camouflage for the warfighter.

The new color configuration is designed to better integrate with the U.S. MultiCam uniforms currently in service in Afghanistan.

The new kit features a Tan 499 frame and strap with MultiCam anti-reflective sleeve and carrying case. The Desert Locust Goggle is the first and only MultiCam eyewear on the U.S. Army Authorized Protective Eyewear List (APEL).

“Revision is committed to meeting the specific needs of soldiers through innovative, custom eyewear solutions,” says Dan Packard, Senior Vice President of Military Sales for Revision. “That’s why we’re proud to deliver the Tan 499 Desert Locust Goggle Kit. This new kit has all the same ballistic features of the original Desert Locust Goggle, but with the added benefit of better camouflage – something that soldiers in today’s hostile environments require and deserve.”

The Tan 499 Desert Locust Goggle combines the best ballistic protection and widest field-of-view with optimal fit and superior camouflage making this the ultimate goggle for extended use. Its high-performance OcuMax coated lenses protect against fogging and scratching while the filtered ventilated frame keeps sand, wind and dust at bay.

The goggle exceeds ANSI Z87.1-2010 and military ballistic impact requirements (MIL-DTL-43511D, clause 3.5.10); ensures flawless optics for distortion-free vision; and provides rugged durability to protect and perform through all the rigors of combat. The Tan 499 Desert Locust Goggle U.S. Military Kit retails for $99.99 MSRP.

ABOUT REVISION
Revision develops and delivers purpose-built protective equipment for military use worldwide. The company, which began with eyewear, has expanded to face and head protection and continues to develop their capabilities for integrated, performance-enhancing soldier systems. To that end, Revision brings the most advanced expertise, state-of-the-art facilities and finest technical minds. Clients include the U.S. Department of Defense, the Canadian Department of National Defence, the Netherlands Defence Materiel Organization, the Swiss Federal Department of Defence and the UK Ministry of Defence. Privately owned and ISO 9001:2008 certified, Revision’s operational headquarters is located in Essex Junction, Vermont, USA, with additional offices in the Netherlands and Canada. For more information, visit www.revisionmilitary.com, write info@revisionmilitary.com, or call +1 252.288.5805.

Smith and Wesson

SPRINGFIELD, Mass.--(Ammoland.com)- SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (May 5, 2011) – Smith & Wesson Corp. announced today that the Company is expanding its Nation’s Finest rebate program, which is designed to provide qualified military personnel and disabled veterans with discounts on select Smith & Wesson firearms.

The Nation’s Finest program is just one of the many ways that the Company is showing its appreciation toward members of the United States Armed Forces community who actively participate in the shooting sports.

From now to December 31, 2011, any current active duty, retired or disabled member of the U.S. Armed Forces or Reserves is eligible to receive a rebate with the purchase of any qualifying Smith & Wesson firearm*.

Smith & Wesson Military Appreciation Program

The Nation’s Finest program offers eligible military personnel and disabled veterans a $100 mail-in rebate for the purchase of a qualifying M&P15 rifle, and a $50 mail-in rebate for the purchase of a qualifying M&P pistol or Smith & Wesson revolver. Please visit www.smith-wesson.com/nationsfinest for complete details on the Nation’s Finest program and to learn more about qualifying Smith & Wesson products. The incentive program is limited to the purchase of one model per firearm category.

“It is with a great sense of pride and deep appreciation that we have expanded the Nation’s Finest program in order to give something back to the men and women of the U.S. Armed Services,” said James Debney, President of Firearms for Smith & Wesson.

“These true patriots have selflessly and valiantly devoted their lives to the preservation of the United States and, in turn, we have pledged our support to them. While we can never thank them enough for their services or the hardships they have endured, we hope this program will help them enjoy the shooting sports both on a professional and recreational level.”

Smith & Wesson’s Nation’s Finest program is available to all active duty U.S. Military, Retired Military with retired Military Status, active National Guard Reservists and Disabled Veterans of all U.S. Military branches, including the U.S. Coast Guard. Customers wishing to take advantage of this offer should visit the Smith & Wesson website at www.smith-wesson.com/nationsfinest for redemption coupons and complete details.

*All M&P15 Sport rifles, M&P15-22 rifles, M&P22 pistols, and all used firearms are excluded from the Nation’s Finest program.

About Smith & Wesson
Smith & Wesson Holding Corporation (NASDAQ: SWHC) is a U.S.-based, global provider of products and services for safety, security, protection and sport. The company designs and constructs facility perimeter security solutions for military and commercial applications, and delivers a broad portfolio of firearms and related training to the military, law enforcement and sports markets. SWHC companies include Smith & Wesson Corp., the globally recognized manufacturer of quality firearms; Smith & Wesson Security Solutions, a full-service perimeter security integrator, barrier manufacturer and installer; and Thompson/Center Arms Company, Inc., a premier designer and manufacturer of premium hunting firearms. SWHC facilities are located in Massachusetts, Maine, and Tennessee. For more information on Smith & Wesson and its companies, call (800) 331-0852 or log on to www.smith-wesson.com; http://www.tcarms.com or www.waltherusa.com.

ATK

MINNEAPOLIS, Minn --(Ammoland.com)-ATK (NYSE: ATK) announced today a total of $33.5 million in new medium caliber cannon orders.

The contracts, from a mix of European and Middle East/North Africa (MENA) Region customers, will expand ATK’s production of its battle-proven M242 and Mk44 Bushmaster Chain Guns in support of allied forces worldwide.

ATK’s Mesa, Ariz. facility will manufacture both the 25mm M242 and the 30/40mm Mk44 automatic cannons. ATK medium caliber cannons are sold in more than 30 countries world-wide and are the primary gun systems for the Bradley Fighting Vehicle, the Light Armored Vehicle, the Apache Attack Helicopter, and coastal patrol craft.

More than 11,000 25mm M242s are in service worldwide. The 30/40mm Mk44 has become the weapon of choice for the world’s medium caliber fighting platforms – including ground combat vehicles, naval and aircraft applications.

“ATK has long been a leader in providing affordable and proven medium caliber gun systems to the U.S. Armed Forces and our allies,” said Dan Olson, Vice President and General Manager, ATK Integrated Weapon Systems. “These awards support our focus on international growth and help sustain ATK’s market leading position in the development and manufacturing of quality medium caliber guns systems.”

ATK is an aerospace, defense, and commercial products company with operations in 23 states, Puerto Rico, and internationally, and revenues of approximately $4.8 billion. News and information can be found on the Internet at www.atk.com.

5.11 Tactical Pants in Action

TacticalGear.com

USA - -(Ammoland.com)- 5.11 Tactical recently raised the price of their legendary tactical pants by 25 percent.

In an exclusive interview, Tactical Gear Blog spoke with Dan Costa, 5.11 Tactical CEO, via telephone to learn more about the recent price jump on a number of 5.11 products.

During the interview, Costa described a “perfect storm” that led to the $10 price increase of 5.11 Tactical pants.

Why did prices increase? Costa mentioned a combination of reasons, including the rising cost of oil, cotton, labor and the dollar’s declining exchange rate in the world economy.

Interview:

5.11 Tactical CEO Dan Costa

TGB: What are the determining factors behind the 5.11 product price increase?
DC: We’ve had the same price on our product for the last 10 years. We’ve seen price increases continue, but we’ve always figured out how to offset that by creating new products in our line and new categories to keep the prices in line. What happened this time is like the perfect storm.

First of all, you’ve got oil. Oil prices are up, so transportation costs are high. All of our goods come from the Far East, so that’s a big trip and a lot of gas. The other thing is a lot of the products are made with oil. The nylon products are oil based and so are the shoes.

Secondly you have the price of cotton. I think it went over $2 a pound, and it used to be 50 cents a pound like a year and a half ago. So, the fabric price is up—the cotton crop was bad, the planting of the cotton was low and the consumption was high.

And then there is another thing that was thrown in, and this is like a two-edge sword. Asia is so big, and so powerful that they can kind of move markets when they want to. So they either buy up the commodity, or they don’t allow that commodity to come into that country. Like they wouldn’t allow India to import cotton into China, so that created a price increase on the product you could use in China. Well, that’s where the sewing was done. So they raised the price of their own cotton because they are so big, they could do that.

And then there’s the second edge to that sword, and that is Asia again. A good example is Taiwan. All the shoe manufacturers that I know, and I know about 15 of the top shoe manufacturers in the world, they are all Taiwanese. Their factories are not in Taiwan; their factories are in mostly China and are moving out of China and into other countries. But they all started in Taiwan, and for some reason, Taiwan just became the shoe guy. Then they went to China because the labor in Taiwan became too expensive. Taiwan got more educated; they started making computers, and they started making software. The jobs paid more, and they were better jobs. Instead of working in a hot shoe factory, you are in an air conditioned lab—and you get paid twice as much. All the workers moved over to the computer companies and didn’t want to make shoes anymore. The shoe companies moved to China.

So, the same thing just keeps happening [in the garment industry]. It just kind of hopscotches from third-world countries that need the jobs. When that labor moves and people don’t want to do that type of work anymore, then the labor has to go somewhere else where jobs are needed. Now the product is moving further east. And then you have the dollar versus the Chinese Renminbi. There is an imbalance in the dollar as well.

So you’ve have the dollar, you’ve have labor that went up [in price], and the labor that is moving. You’ve have the price of the materials, and you’ve got the price of the transportation of those materials. Nothing else could come into play. The only other thing that could come into play … I don’t even know what that could be. I don’t know how it could get any worse.

TGB: Were there any other options explored before you decided to make a price increase?
DC: Well, our only other option would be to lessen the quality. We would have to cut back on the weight of the fabric, go to B-class factories for better pricing or cut the amount of stitches. That’s not even an option for us. Again, when we look at the price of our product, what’s in it and the durability … I mean we were selling 5.11 TacLite and tactical shirts for $39.99. If Patagonia was selling that shirt, it would be $80. And we were selling it for $39.

TGB: What has customer feedback been like so far?
DC: The customer knows. The customer understands. The customer reads the paper and sees what’s going on with oil prices, cotton and labor. I think we have a pretty good trust factor with our customers at 5.11. When we talk to our customers, many of them said, “I was wondering how long you could sell your pants and your shirt for $39—it just seems so inexpensive.” Sometimes we even have customers in other parts of the world saying, “You know, you should raise your prices because I think people think your quality is poor because your prices are so low.”

We work on a certain margin, and we try to keep that very tight because our law enforcement customer and our public safety customer, they don’t get paid a lot. Our job is to keep those prices intact. We have a mission statement: We make product that exceeds the needs of our customer for function, innovation and durability, and we deliver it to them at a value. That doesn’t mean a low price. That means a value.

TGB: Is this the first time 5.11 has raised prices on the original 5.11 Tactical Pants?
DC: When I bought the company in 2000, the 5.11 Tactical Pants were $60 at Royal Robbins. I decreased the price to $39.99 because we sourced the product better, we bought more fabrics, and we did more things to get the product priced lower—mainly just eliminated a lot of the middlemen they were using in Asia. We opened our own offices in Asia. Rather to pay people to do it, we did it ourselves. We decreased our prices from $60 to $39, and it’s been $39 since.

TGB: Twenty-five percent is a rather significant price increase. How do you think the market will react?
DC: We announced the price increase back in November or December, and we just got back from a big trade show and made sure all the consumers knew that prices were going up. And again, most of them looked at us and said, “Hey look, I’m surprised you are able to keep the price the way you have been.”

TGB: What’s the reasoning behind a $5 difference, as opposed to the standard $10 difference, between MAP and MSRP on tactical pants?
DC: Again, I think the goal was to keep the prices as close as possible—give the consumer the price that they need. It’s all about the consumer for us. If we take care of the customer, and we have that loyalty and that trust between us and the end-user, then we really don’t have to worry about anything else. If we take care of our customers, our customers will take care of us.

5.11 Tactical Pants

TGB: Are you concerned with undermining your wholesale business by having such a minimal difference between MAP and MSRP?
DC: No, I think everyone pretty much charges MAP. I think MSRP is kind of like out there. It probably means more outside of the United States than inside. Duties and tariffs outside of the United States are really the reason for MSRP. The people in Europe will charge MSRP instead of MAP.

TGB: You sell your products at MSRP on your official website.
DC: That’s right. We are always above the retail price. If someone has to get the product, like tomorrow, we have so many products. There isn’t a dealer anywhere that has what we have. We have $40 million worth of inventory—every size and every color. If someone needs a size triple-X OD green tac vest, and they need it tomorrow because they are going to the Middle East, they know they can get it.

For them to pay $5 more or $10 more, they are OK with that. We need to offer that to our customer. That is why we have our website, and that’s why those prices are a little higher—just to make sure we do take care of our dealers. On the other hand, we need to make sure we don’t forget the hand that feeds us—and that’s our consumers.

TGB: With the difference between MAP and MSPR on tactical pants cut in half, is this a new strategy to do more online business on your website?
DC: No. Our online business as a percentage is a little bit less than it was in the years past. I think that is because of the broad distribution of 5.11. You can get 5.11 online now at so many good retailers, and they are holding lots of inventory. Many of our big dealers have tons of 5.11 inventory, so that decreases the need for consumers to have to fall back on [5.11's website] for those items.

We are actually doing less business online ourselves as a company than we were in the past, which is fine with us because that is not the biggest part of our business. We do very small percentages in our own online business. However, our online business throughout the world is going crazy. I would say anybody who sells 5.11 online—it’s their largest product they sell.

TGB: Not to name names, but there are certain dealers like LA Police Gear who have introduced private label tactical pants to the market. They are 5.11 dealers who have made a name for themselves by selling your product. Does it bother you to see this type of activity?
DC: I think it was good that they did it because they found out it wasn’t that easy. In fact, now they are not making [the pants] anymore. LA Police Gear just purchased massive amounts of 5.11 pants in huge bulk buys, and they are discontinuing their private label pant because of inconsistency, fit issues and delivery issues. Actually, they can’t even get the goods right now. They can’t even get a factory to make their product.

Making a garment is not easy. Making something that fits well, forms well—they just don’t pop out of a bag. You’ve got to make sure you have the right standards, quality control measures, factories… [you have to make sure] the fabric is coming from the same mills and the same partners. I think Sean at LA Police Gear found out that it wasn’t all a bowl of cherries out there. He came back to us not too long ago and said, “OK, I’m done with this. I’m ready to buy more 5.11 because everything I bring in, I sell like crazy. So, I am just going to bring in more of it.”

TGB: That’s a huge compliment to you guys, because you make it look that easy.
DC: We actually helped him with his private label in the beginning to make sure that he didn’t get hurt, and I think it was great that he learned it’s not what they should be doing. He said, “Our focus is selling products and selling brands, and that’s what we are going to stick to.”

TGB: Do you foresee other manufacturers changing their prices as well?
DC: Oh, that is automatic. Read the paper. If you are doing research on price increases, go online to Nike. It’s impossible [that prices won't go up] with the perfect storm we just talked about.

It would be different if cotton prices just went from $50 to $65 or $70, and that if they were going to go back down to $50 when the crop comes out. This is not that. This is a five-star perfect storm. All the stars have lined up on this one. Nobody is able to absorb these increases.

TGB: Do you think the price will ever decrease?
DC: I don’t know. I don’t know what’s going on in the world. I see what’s happening in the Middle East with oil, and oil might even get crazier. I mean, I would say there is a better chance of the prices going higher than lower in this world today. There is a better chance that a year or two from now, the prices would be even higher than lower. I wish it was not the case, but there is nothing that tells me [it could decrease]. There are lots of things that tell me it could happen the other way.

TGB: Word on the street is that 5.11 is going public. Can you confirm, deny or even discuss this?
DC: 5.11 has many options because of our growth and expansion worldwide. I’m not sure which avenues we’ll take, but it will be interesting to see what happens. Nothing will happen in the next year because we have too much growth in our international business to finish first.

TGB: Does this price adjustment factor into 5.11′s potential IPO?
DC: No, that would not affect it at all.

TGB: What has it been like at 5.11 since the private equity firm made the acquisition?
DC: It’s been great. It’s been interesting. For me, I’ve always owned my own company. When we went to market 5.11, we put the company out to bid, and we had 100 companies bid [on 5.11]. As they were interviewing us, we were interviewing them. We picked a company that luckily picked us. It’s a private equity company that has been around 40 years based in London, Boston and San Francisco. The people we deal with, the lead partner, it’s the only job he’s ever had. For me, it’s been a great learning experience. They appreciate how hard we work for them as a company. It’s been a very good, strong relationship. It’s been great for 5.11′s growth.

When we did the deal with TA Associates in 2007, we were doing about $80 million in sales. This year our budget is to do over $200 million. So, they are quite happy, and so are we. They have a company that kind of runs itself. Other than board meetings, I really don’t ever see them or talk to them. It’s pretty much business as normal. If you were an employee at 5.11 in Modesto, and you were working in design or the warehouse or accounting, you would have never known the company has exchanged hands. You wouldn’t know. There is no difference.

TGB: Is it affecting the strategic direction of 5.11?
DC: No. We create the direction, and we are deciding the path and the future. As long as we take it from $80 to $200 in that amount of time, they are sitting back saying, “Hey, this is working out just fine.” I would imagine if we were taking it from $80 to $60, there’d be some direction.

About:
TacticalGear.com is a catalog and Internet retailer based in St. Louis, Missouri, USA. Relentless customer service combined with top quality tactical gear is the essence of what we do. Operating since 2004, our staff, website and catalog are dedicated to providing you with a world-class, uniquely concentrated shopping experience. Visit: www.tacticalgear.com/

ECLiPSE Performance Gear Distributor Spotlight - Ira Green - BrigadeQM

ECLiPSE Performance Gear

Jessup, PA --(Ammoland.com)- To help serve you better, BAE Systems provides ECLiPSE Performance Gear products through our distinguished distributor network.

We value our partnership with these distributors and would like to tell you more about Ira Green and how you can purchase ECLiPSE products from them.

Originally founded in 1943, Ira Green first became known as a manufacturer of United States Military uniform insignia, medals and uniform related accessories for all branches of the US Military.

More recently, Ira Green has continued to expand their product offering to now include ECLiPSE Performance Gear and virtually every conceivable tactical item through their website www.brigadeqm.com .

Based out of Providence, Rhode Island, Ira Green’s products are available for purchase through all military exchanges such as AAFES, MCX, NEXCOM and CGES.

Now, Ira Green and ECLiPSE Performance Gear are joining forces to add ECLiPSE Gear in all of their newly remodeled Tactical Field Exchange Stores.

For a complete listing of their Tactical Field Stores, please visit www.brigadeqm.com.

About:
ECLiPSE® Performance Gear by BAE Systems incorporates lightweight, high quality materials to enhance performance and efficiency on the battlefield. For nearly three decades, BAE Systems has achieved an unparelleled level of expertise in designing and manufacturing quality gear trusted by military forces worldwide. ECLiPSE® gear is designed to increase functionality and mission readiness. Visit: www.eclipsegear.com

NEW Series Of RAP4 MOLLE Pouches

Real Action Paintball

San Jose, CA --(Ammoland.com)- Real Action Paintball is proud to be your finest source for MOLLE vest pouches, magazine holders, and accessories.

With our ballistic nylon construction, mil-spec designs, and 21 available patterns – including all US military patterns and many foreign patterns – we have exactly the pouch you want in exactly the design you need.

Our MOLLE Magazine Pouches are available for rifle and pistol magazines, with specific models tailored for exactly the gear you carry. Check out the double MP5 magazine pouch for the RAP5 Gen 2 marker and airsoft MP5s, so you can carry spare ammo right where you need it. Three-magazine pouches are available, too, and you can have them made – just for you – in any of our 21 available patterns…for no extra charge.

For players using the mag-fed T68 markers, check out the M4/M16 magazine pouches that let you carry two magazines – or three – anywhere on your MOLLE vest. There are magazine pouches for Tiberius pistol magazines, and Tippmann TPX magazines…airsoft pistol magazines, and the RAP226 and other Real Action Paintball pistols. We have MOLLE pouches for all of your mags…and MOLLE holsters for those pistols, too!

But there’s more to the versatility of MOLLE vests than magazine pouches – top scenario players wear them so they can carry radios, maps, ID, spare paintball pods, and other gear.

When you’re in the backfield, you need to radio your opponents’ moves to your commander…which means that you need a radio, and need it accessible while you do more important things (like shooting and moving). Real Action Paintball has your answer: the MOLLE Radio/Walkie Talkie Pouch. Also useful for storing magazines in a pinch, or other large rectangular objects, this pouch can put your radio right up near your ear…or out of the way lower on your chest.

From map and ID pouches, to general storage pockets for cable squeegees and field repair kits, RAP4 has a MOLLE pouch for every paintball, airsoft, and tactical need. Go ahead and challenge us – search www.rap4.com for “MOLLE” and whatever it is you’re looking for, and an answer will certainly come up…and will be available in those 21 patterns, too.

Real Action Paintball – As Real as it Gets!

About:
RAP4 is recognized as a leader in compressed air-powered marking technology, with patented innovations for military and law enforcement tools and industry-leading paintball sport equipment. Headquartered in San Jose, California, RAP4 has distributors across America and around the world. Trained staff members are available by phone or in person for consultations, and to troubleshoot or train your personnel on use of their equipment. visit www.rap4lesslethal.com

Bates and Dittus ExD-37 37mm launcher

Bates and Dittus

Rochester, New York - -(Ammoland.com)- Ed Dittus, Managing Partner of Bates and Dittus LLC (B&D) and Tony DiChario, President and CEO of American Tactical Imports (ATI) announced today an exclusive distribution agreement between their companies.

As of today, ATI has exclusive Worldwide rights to distribute all of B&D’s products.

B&D is a relatively new, up and coming company whose products include the ExD-37, a 37mm launcher that has found wide acceptance in the law enforcement community.

Their line includes a pistol configuration launcher (the SML-37) and a consumer oriented launcher (TBL-37). Their newest product offering, the UBL-37, is an under barrel 37mm launcher that is convertible to a shoulder configuration and is being introduced at this year’s Shot Show in Las Vegas.

ATI is the premier importer and manufacturer and distributor of quality firearms and accessories. ATI redefined the firearms business with their development and importation of small caliber rifles designed with the look and feel of military weapons.

Tony DiChario remarked that “We are extremely happy to join with B&D in marketing their products. They are unquestionably the best in the industry and as such are a great addition to our expanding product line.”

Ed Dittus said “This is exactly the right opportunity at the right time for B&D. Expanding our channels of distribution to where we want them to be can only be accomplished with a partnership with a company like Tony’s.

We are really happy with this opportunity and look forward to a successful future together.”

For further information contact

• ATI: www.americantactical.us
• B&D: www.BatesandDittus.com

Wiley X Eyewear

Livermore, CA –(Ammoland.com)- In a recent shooting glove competition by maritime law enforcement organization 14USC89.com, Wiley X had two of its top tactical gloves take the upper hand in a punishing series of tests during a week-long advanced weapons course and CQB instructor course at U.S. Training Center.

Both the Wiley X Combat Assault Glove (CAG-1) and the Wiley X Aries Glove were pitted against stiff competition from glove brands like Oakley, Under Armor and Mechanix, yet received the highest marks of all.

Wiley X Combat Assault Glove (CAG-1) and the Wiley X Aries Glove

This was a grueling user field test for maritime operation applications, and each set of gloves received equal range time and testing with 5000 rounds each of pistol, rifle and shotgun. The gloves were also assessed for the primary performance attributes of user ease and comfort, with particular focus on the ability to provide solid grip and comfortable feel, along with the ability to change magazines, draw handcuffs, or other tools without losing the sense of feel.

The Army Combat Glove Authorized Products List (ACGAPL) approved Wiley X CAG-1, made of treated goatskin leather and with an injection molded knuckle protector, has a 100% Kevlar weave from fingers to wrist and is flame and abrasion resistant.

“This glove blew everyone away. The question is, what does it NOT have,” quipped the reviewer at 14USC89.com.

“These gloves held up extraordinarily during shooting and even allowed for ease of use during reloading. It fits perfectly and even molds itself to the shape of your hand. The wrist strap allows for the perfect fit.”

Wiley X’s Aries glove was no slouch, either — NAVAIR approved, it has a lightweight Nomex/Kevlar weave on the fingers and the back of the hand for flame resistance and to prevent cuts.

“The (Aries) Wiley X gloves offer a outstanding fit and a Velcro® cuff for perfect adjustment and fit,” reported 14USC89.com.

“They also have leather protection across the knuckles. Tips of the thumb, middle, and shooting finger are precut for exposure and 100% sense of touch to the wearer.”

To learn more about Wiley X’s top scoring glove lines or the company’s full line of high performance eyewear — contact Wiley X Eyewear at 7800 Patterson Pass Road, Livermore, CA 94550 • Telephone: (800) 776-7842 • Or visit online at www.wileyx.com. For updates on Wiley X pro athletes and events, find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/wileyxeyewear.

RIPR - Rifle Integrated Power Rail

Simi Valley, California --(Ammoland.com)- RESET is pleased to announce the Rifle Integrated Power Rail (RIPR) will be showcased at the Shot Show in Las Vegas, NV January 18-21, 2011 at multiple locations:

• # RESET, Booth # 8002
• # ATK Booth # 14540
• # Laser Devices, Booth #20205

The RIPR has been shown all over the world and RESET is proud to be at Shot Show 2011. Also this year, new purpose-built products are debuting from some of the industry’s leading accessory manufacturers. In particular, Laser Devices Inc. will be showing their newly manufactured RIPR powered Forward Mounted Lights and Forward Mounted Light Laser assemblies.

Heinz Thummel, Chief Executive Officer for Laser Devices comments, “We’ve been working on this product for some time and proud to have it debuting at Shot Show. Both the White Light and combination Light/Lasers are only the beginning. Our product coupled with the powered rail makes for a tremendous system for soldiers and commercial users.”

Galen Puccini, Chief Operating Officer for RESET said, “This is an exciting time. The RIPR development is going great. The new products coming out from the various accessory manufacturers are amazing. It’s clear that this is an open architecture system and that anyone can build product using our power source. We’re pleased that an industry leader like Laser Devices has brought so much innovation to their product design.”

By eliminating the redundant battery compartments and batteries associated with each weapon mounted device, RIPR will directly provide power to these devices, thus reducing device sizes by up to 50%. By tapping RIPR’s increased battery output, currently deployed devices will run longer and devices with higher power demands will become more readily deployable. RIPR is also made in the USA with the picatinny rail meeting the

Manufactured in the USA, the RIPR is the first powered Mil-STD 1913 picatinny rail adaptor for tactical weapon accessories. The RIPR centralized power pack improves weapon balance and replaces the need for multiple battery types and adapts to all M-1913 Picatinny rails. This universal standard greatly reduces weight on the soldier as well as improving the logistic and supply chain costs caused by multiple battery types.

About Reset:
For over 40 years RESET has been serving the computer, telecommunications, medical and general electronics industries with cost effective programs and the highest quality parts support, warehousing, logistics and distribution. RESET serves OEM’s, service and maintenance organizations, and internal service departments with an exceptional level of expertise focused on exceeding expectations. Whether it is a single failed device or an entire parts support program, RESET has the solution. For more information on RESET please visit www.reset-inc.com.

RIPR - Rifle Integrated Power Rail

RIPR - Rifle Integrated Power Rail

Simi Valley, California --(Ammoland.com)- RESET is pleased to announce that ATK, the premiere tactical systems integrator, has selected the Rifle Integrated Power Rail to power its weapon systems of the future.

According to ATK Business Development Manager Mike Stucki, “The powered rail is a requirement for the overall program and the RESET RIPR fits the bill. We are very excited about bringing the RIPR to both the Government and Commercial markets. The response has been outstanding and we’re looking forward to working with all the different accessory manufacturers. We fully understand that the open architecture is critical to RIPR’s success.”

This alliance will not only accelerate the RIPR program, but also create an added value to accessory manufacturers building purpose-built RIPR product.

Galen Puccini, Chief Operating Officer for RESET comments, “ATK is a great organization with so many different levels of support, everything from its strong Government/Military programs to its wide range of commercial organizations like Eagle, Blackhawk and their Sporting and Security Divisions. We’ve done so much together already that we can’t wait to see what the future holds.”

ATK

ATK and RESET are no strangers to working together. Recently RESET and ATK entered into the US Army’s Expeditionary Warrior Experiment (AEWE Spiral G). The RIPR is an obvious solution to the military’s strategic, technological and cost effective solutions to protect our country.

By eliminating the redundant battery compartments and batteries associated with each weapon mounted device, RIPR will directly provide power to these devices, thus reducing device sizes by up to 50% by tapping RIPR’s increased battery output. Currently deployed devices will run longer and devices with higher power demands will become more readily deployable.

The RIPR is the first powered rail adaptor for tactical weapon accessories. The RIPR centralized power pack improves weapon balance and replaces the need for multiple battery types and adapts to all M-1913 Picatinny rails. This universal standard greatly reduces weight on the soldier as well as improving the logistic and supply chain costs caused by multiple battery types.

For more information on RESET and the Rifle Integrated Power Rail, please visit www.riprrail.com.

As the teaming agreement heads into the final stages, ATK will bring the RIPR to both Commercial and Government markets. ATK, a pioneer in product integration, is dedicating its business development, marketing, sales and distribution channels to bring the RIPR to market as quickly as possible.

About Reset:
For over 40 years RESET has been serving the computer, telecommunications, medical and general electronics industries with cost effective programs and the highest quality parts support, warehousing, logistics and distribution. RESET serves OEM’s, service and maintenance organizations, and internal service departments with an exceptional level of expertise focused on exceeding expectations. Whether it is a single failed device or an entire parts support program, RESET has the solution. For more information on RESET please visit www.reset-inc.com.

“We ought not to look back, unless it is to derive useful lessons from past errors and for the purpose of profiting by dear bought experience.” (George Washington)

AmmoLand Gun News

QUANTICO, Va --(Ammoland.com)- There is no guarantee we will learn from the bloody combat lessons of the last century. The current penchant by some for questioning the Marine Corps’ need for an amphibious tracked vehicle suggests an ignorance of history and a lack of understanding of the future; it is unsupported by hard lessons learned, world trends, and a security environment characterized by a high degree of uncertainty. Our Nation will most certainly require continued global access from the sea, and just as certainly there are forces at work that are actively and aggressively attempting to deny us that much needed access.

The Secretary of Defense clearly stated that his decision to cut the Expeditionary Fighting Vehicle program does not call into question the amphibious assault mission of the Marine Corps. Moreover, he stated the requirement of developing a more affordable and sustainable amphibious tractor to provide the Marines a ship-to-shore capability into the future.

As America’s expeditionary force in readiness, the Marine Corps specializes in rapidly deploying anywhere in the world to develop access through partnership building activities, to create access in response to crises, and to provide the ability to force access to deter and/or defeat threats. The Corps will never be defined by a program, but rather by the capabilities we bring to the fight.

As a maritime Nation the tyranny of distance, geography, and topography remain constant challenges to our global influence. As demonstrated countless times, our ability to come from the sea and overcome the challenges of natural and manmade barriers allows us to protect and defend U.S. interests. Our continued ability to respond is dependent on our ability to operate in uncertain environments, create opportunities and ensure freedom of action regardless of access challenges.

The Marine Corps has learned that amphibious operations should avoid fixed defenses whenever possible. This option is not always available, however. In such cases the amphibious tracked vehicle is essential to success. The tracked amphibious vehicle provides the ability to perform three critical tasks: ship-to-shore movement, breakout from the beach and protected land mobility and firepower. As a result, the amphibious tracked vehicle has been a mainstay of amphibious capability. It has often proven the indispensible, enabling capability that Marines employ to both solve the sea/land mobility challenge and to gain advantage over our enemies.

Recent operational experience and history attest to the effectiveness of amphibious tracked vehicles in providing the capability and capacity demanded by numerous operating environments—permissive, uncertain, or hostile. Most recently, amphibious tracked vehicles assisted in overcoming the devastated infrastructure in Haiti. These same vehicles were used to rescue stranded citizens and deliver relief supplies following Katrina’s devastation of the U.S. Gulf Coast in 2005. In the 1990s these vehicles enabled relief efforts in Somalia during Operation RESTORE HOPE and subsequently provided the key capability necessary to safely withdraw U.N. forces in UNITED SHIELD. During the Korean War they allowed us to project power from the sea at Inchon to reverse the looming defeat of U.S. forces trapped at Pusan. Given the proliferation of area denial weapons among both state and non-state actors, we believe that future operations—even those conducted for benign reasons—will be conducted under uncertain and highly dangerous conditions.

Amphibious tracked vehicles employed from ships at sea provide the means to assure littoral access that no other capability can provide. They are the only combat vehicles built to operate effectively in the littorals: a complex environment of salt and fresh water, muddy marshes and estuaries, and dry land; rural, suburban and urban landscapes; wildly varying terrain; high to low population densities; and temperature extremes. They can quickly and seamlessly transit from ship-to-shore as well as swim rivers and negotiate inland water obstacles, providing the ability to achieve tactical and operational surprise. They protect their occupants as they maneuver on sea and land to a position of advantage and can close with an enemy or rescue our friends. Their known presence off shore historically has been a powerful deterrent and effective capability across the range of military operations.

A modern amphibious tracked vehicle uses the sea as maneuver space, creates opportunities in the littorals, optimizes employment of amphibious forces, and enhances survivability in the face of area denial threats. An amphibious tracked vehicle is the proven means to overcome access challenges, natural or manmade, ranging from tsunami-ravaged infrastructure to an armed aggressor seeking to oppose our maneuver. Amphibious tracked vehicles empower a flexible, ship-borne force to wait off shore for the opportunity to shape the security environment or alter an outcome. This unique capability provides our Nation with a critical power projection asset.

There is no doubt that the sustainment and further development of our Nation’s amphibious capability is important for continued access to strategically vital regions of the world. We see a clear mandate to be ready to shape, influence, deter, and if necessary defeat would be forces that seek to deny us access. Meeting this mandate will allow us to profit “by dear bought experience” rather than repeat the errors of the past.

Leupold Tactical Optics

BEAVERTON, Ore. --(Ammoland.com)- U.S. Army veteran Chris Estadt has joined the Leupold Tactical Optics Division as director of military business development.

Estadt works to establish Leupold Tactical Optics programs across all military service branches. He leads the process of identifying business opportunities and building relationships with the military acquisition community as well as end users, industry partners and government officials. Estadt drives proposal writing initiatives and plays a key role in product development, customer service and marketing as well.

“Chris brings a diverse background that is a strong combination of hands-on military and business experience,” said Kevin Trepa, vice president of tactical sales and marketing for Leupold & Stevens, Inc.

“In addition, he is extremely knowledgeable about firearms, optics and shooting. This experience and knowledge makes Chris an outstanding resource for our military warfighters and a mission-critical member of our team.”

A graduate of The Citadel military college in South Carolina, Estadt served as an infantry officer in the U.S. Army with the 82nd Airborne Division. While in the service, he graduated from Ranger School, Airborne School, Jumpmaster School and Air Assault School. Estadt also earned the Expert Infantryman’s Badge.

Prior to joining Leupold & Stevens, Inc., Estadt was the director of the tactical division at Vortex Optics, where he helped build the military business from the ground up. He previously worked as a regional manager for First Choice Body Armor.

An avid outdoorsman, Estadt has also operated a hunting and fishing business. He is based near Columbus, Ohio.

Supported by a team of dedicated engineers, the Leupold Tactical Optics staff works with American warfighters, law enforcement personnel and competitive shooters to design and build products that meet their needs. Currently, more long-range Leupold Tactical Optics are in service with the U.S. military than any other brand.

Leupold & Stevens, Inc., the preeminent American-owned and -operated optics company, employs more than 700 people in its state-of-the-art facility near Beaverton, Ore., where Mark 4® and Golden Ring® optics are designed, machined and assembled. Leupold & Stevens, Inc. is a fifth-generation, family-owned company. The product line includes rifle, handgun and spotting scopes; binoculars; rangefinders; trail cameras; flashlights; mounting systems; and optical tools and accessories.

Leupold & Stevens, Inc. is a Charter Supporter of the Hunting and Shooting Sports Heritage Foundation.

MK-19 Fully Automatic Grenade Launcher

U.S. Department of Justice

BIRMINGHAM --(Ammoland.com)- A federal grand jury today indicted two Texas men for surreptitiously trying to buy an automatic grenade launcher, announced U.S. Attorney Joyce White Vance and ATF Special Agent in Charge Glenn Anderson.

The indictment filed in U.S. District Court charges ADAM EMMANUEL LEWIS, 27, and ANTONIO RODRIGUEZ-ARELLANO, 25, with conspiring to possess a machine gun that was not registered to either man in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record.

The men were attempting to buy an MK-19 fully automatic grenade launcher from an undercover agent with the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, according to the indictment.

“The weapon these individuals sought to obtain is powerful and destructive. It is a dangerous and frightening scenario that anyone would seek to purchase an automatic grenade launcher outside the bounds of law,” Vance said. “The ATF is to be commended for its diligent work that prevented such a destructive weapon from being bought secretly and potentially used criminally,” she said.

“Lewis and Rodriguez-Arellano were looking for a low-key purchase of an illegal grenade launcher, plain and simple,” Anderson said. “Fortunately, this investigation stopped that from happening. Firearm trafficking cases like this one prevent violence, save lives and keep illegal weapons off the street,” he said.

According to the indictment, LEWIS’ and RODGRIGUEZ-ARELLANO’s attempts to buy the grenade launcher developed as follows: LEWIS contacted an ATF confidential informant on Nov. 29 to arrange the purchase of an unregistered automatic grenade launcher. On Dec. 3, both LEWIS and RODGRIGUEZ-ARELLANO traveled from Texas to Cullman in an attempt to buy the weapon. In subsequent phone calls from Dec. 3 to Dec. 15, LEWIS and RODRIGUEZ-ARELLANO negotiated the payment and logistics for buying the grenade launcher with an undercover ATF agent.

On Dec. 15, RODRIGUEZ-ARELLANO traveled from Texas to Leeds, where he paid the undercover agent about $24,000 for the MK-19 automatic grenade launcher, according to the indictment.

RODRIGUEZ-ARELLANO and LEWIS both were arrested Dec. 15. RODRIGUEZ-ARELLANO was arrested in Leeds and LEWIS was arrested in Texas. The men could face a maximum penalty of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine.

The ATF investigated the case with assistance from the Cullman County Sheriff’s Department Narcotics Enforcement Team. Assistant U.S. Attorney Enid Dean Athanas is prosecuting the case.

Members of the public are reminded that an indictment contains only charges. A defendant is presumed innocent of the charges and it will be the government’s burden to prove a defendant’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at trial.

The Battleship Missouri’s 40mm quad gun has returned home, on indefinite loan from the Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum in South Carolina. (Dec. 8, 2010; photo courtesy of the Battleship Missouri Memorial)

USS Missouri Memorial Association

Pearl Harbor, HI --(Ammoland.com)- What do you get the battleship that has everything? Something with firepower, of course.

If battleships could smile, the “Mighty Mo” would have been beaming on Dec. 8 when a 40mm quad gun was delivered from Patriots Point Naval and Maritime Museum, “home of the USS Yorktown,” in South Carolina.

The 40mm quad is an old friend of sorts. It was one of two quads traced back to the USS Missouri that, until last month, guarded the Patriot’s Point entrance. Former USS Missouri crewmembers had arranged to have the guns placed at Patriot’s Point well before the decommissioned Missouri opened in 1999 as a memorial in Pearl Harbor. Recently, the two historic attractions teamed up to secure permission from the Naval Heritage and History Command, who owns the guns, to have one of the WWII-era quads returned to the Missouri on extended loan.

“During World War II and the Korean War, the USS Missouri had 20 40mm quad mounts and 49 20mm guns, all of which were removed during modernization in the 1980s, replaced with four Vulcan/Phalanx 20mm Gatling guns,” said Mike Weidenbach, the Missouri’s curator. “It is important that we remember the entire five-decade active-service history of USS Missouri, which ran from World War II to the Korean War to Operation Desert Storm. Through the Missouri, we are uniquely able to portray the evolution of defense technology. For example, the 40mm quad mount will be installed on the main pier, within view of the modern CIWS gun mount that made the 40mm and 20mm anti-aircraft guns obsolete prior to action in Operation Desert Storm.”

The 40mm anti-aircraft gun has a unique history of it own, as it was one of a very few types of weapon systems used by both sides in World War II. Manufactured by neutral Switzerland, it was used on almost every major U.S. warship. Known for its efficiency, the 40mm proved itself in close-in air defense until outflanked by the Kamikaze attacks in the final months of WWII. Each twin 40mm fired 160 rounds per minute, per barrel effectively up to 4,000 yards. The quad’s seven-man crew included a gun captain, pointer, trainer, two first-loaders and two second-loaders.

Other historical items with ties to the Missouri, such as the “Surrender Plaque” (marking the site of Japan’s World War II surrender) and ship’s bell are similarly on extended loan to the memorial. Just last month, the Missouri’s “defenses” received a boost in the form of eight .50-caliber machine guns from the Naval Surface Warfare Center in Crane, Indiana. They were restored to their original mount locations around the perimeter of the Missouri’s main deck as a tribute to a time when formal Marine Detachments (MARDETs) served on Navy ships as dedicated units.

Gunner's Mate Second Class Charles J. Hansen works on a 40mm quad machine gun mount during the USS Missouri’s shakedown period, circa August 1944. His tattoos commemorating service on the USS Vincennes (CA-44) and shipmates lost with her in the WWII Battle of Savo Island on Aug. 9, 1942. (August 1944; U.S. Navy photo)

A 40mm quad gun mount’s crew is in action in the lower foreground, moments before the USS Missouri (BB-63) is hit by a Japanese A6M “Zero” Kamikaze during the WWII Battle for Okinawa. The plane hit the ship’s side below the main deck, causing minor damage still visible today but leaving no crew casualties. Remarkably, Capt. William Callaghan ordered a formal burial at sea with honors for the pilot, whose body was found on the deck amongst the plane’s wreckage. Callaghan stated that the young Japanese pilot had done his job to the best of his ability for his own country. (April 11, 1945; photo by Buster Campbell)

About:
The Battleship Missouri Memorial, located a mere ship’s length from the USS Arizona Memorial, completes a historical visitor experience that begins with the day of infamy that saw the sinking of USS Arizona in Pearl Harbor and ends with Imperial Japan’s unconditional surrender aboard USS Missouri in Tokyo Bay. Following an astounding career that spans five decades and three wars, from World War II to the Korean conflict to the Liberation of Kuwait, the “Mighty Mo” was decommissioned and donated to the USS Missouri Memorial Association, Inc., a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, which operates the battleship as a historic attraction and memorial. The association oversees her care and preservation with the support of visitors, memberships, grants and the generosity of donors. For more information, visit ussmissouri.org.

Revision Desert Locust Fan Goggle

Revision Eyewear

Essex Junction, VT --(Ammoland.com)- Revision, leading developer of protective eyewear for militaries worldwide, receives end-user praise following testing of their Desert Locust Fan Goggle.

The system features a tri-speed silent exhausting fan for superior fog protection in extreme temperatures. The goggle’s robust, energy efficient motor is resistant to dust and moisture for continuous operation in even the harshest environments. The weather-resistant battery casing provides exceptional life for mission performance and it operates using a single AA battery for easy field replacement.

The goggle was trialed by test team members from over 30 states and it was subject to a variety of field conditions from high heat and humidity to extreme cold. The Desert Locust Fan Goggle performed equally well in fit, comfort and of course anti-fog performance.

End-users summarized their experience as follows:

“I would choose the fan goggle hands down. The fan feature allowed me to never experience any fogging which has been a problem for me in the past with non-fan goggles. Advantage, clear field of view at all time. Disadvantage, none noted.”

“I wish I had these goggles while serving with the Army in Iraq! I was dismounted after an IED strike disabled a vehicle. While holding a perimeter my own breath fogged my goggles so badly that I had to take them off and lost ballistic protection. Had these been available then I would have purchased them… The loss of vision even for a short time in high risk situations can mean catastrophic failure of mission.”

“An extremely high quality product, suited for any sort of Special Operations. Comfortable in the extreme and highly recommended. I am a convert…!”

ABOUT REVISION
Revision develops and delivers purpose-built eye, face and head protection solutions for military and tactical clients worldwide. We are specialists in integration for the optimum and necessary balance of protection and performance. To that end we bring the most advanced expertise, state-of-the-art facilities and finest technical minds. Clients include the U.S. Department of Defense, the Canadian Department of National Defence, the Netherlands Defence Materiel Organization, the Swiss Federal Department of Defence and the UK Ministry of Defence. Privately owned and ISO 9001:2008 certified, Revision’s operational headquarters is located in Essex Junction, Vermont, USA, with additional offices in the Netherlands and Canada. For more information, visit www.revisionmilitary.com, write info@revisionmilitary.com, or call +1 252.288.5805.

RVTT Three-Dimensional Targets for Combat & Counter-Terrorism Units

RVTT Technology Logo

Rosh Ha’Ayin, Israel --(Ammoland.com)- RVTT Reshef Technology, a developer and provider of advanced targets for combat units, will launch its new line of revolutionary 3D targets for combat and counter-terrorism units at I/ITSEC 2010 – the world’s largest modeling, simulation and training conference, to be held November 29-December 2, 2010 in Orlando, Florida.

The new targets will be on display at the company’s booth, #2085.

The new 3D targets, RESHEF RVTT 3039, are realistic, visual 3D infantry targets for dry/live-fire training of military combat forces and police anti-terror special units, such as SWAT teams. The multi-spectral target, designed for day and night training, has passive thermal reflective capability and provides users with a realistic thermal picture. Radar and laser signatures can be provided as an option.

The RESHEF RVTT 3039 targets are positioned in the field training area, using various battlefield scenarios. The target’s unique features create a realistic atmosphere – a real battlefield look and feel – in all weather conditions.

RESHEF RVTT 3039 is based on RVTT’s proprietary worldwide Multi Spectral Products patent and on the Visual Reality concept, which combines various means of display perceived as real by the trainees, providing them with a realistic visual experience as if they were actually involved in a battle. RVTT’s Visual Reality™ bridges the gap between physical reality and virtual reality, in a variety of different terrain conditions.

“The new RESHEF RVTT 3039 highly improves the skills of combat forces at all levels using day and night target identification and destruction means in a real terrain environment,” said David Reshef, RVTT’s CEO. “The new targets are another milestone in our efforts to equip combat units and anti-terror Special Forces with the best training aids, creating the feeling of being on a real battlefield.”

About RVTT Reshef Technology
Founded in 2000 by Lt. Col. (Ret.) David Reshef of Israel Defense Forces (IDF), RVTT Reshef Technology provides training aids such as advanced targets that highly improve simulated battlefields in day and night training, creating a real combat experience. The company’s solutions are based on its proprietary Visual Reality™ concept, and allow rapid installation of enemy targets while safely marking the forces to prevent friendly fire. For more information visit the company’s website at: http://www.epicos.com/epicos/extended/israel/RVTTReshefTechnology/page01.html

Bye, Bye M4 Carbine

AmmoLand Gun News

Florence, Alabama - -(Ammoland.com)- It’s no great secret that the Army’s M4 carbine hasn’t exactly covered itself with glory in Iraq and Afghanistan.

As long ago as the 1960s, long before the M4, the issues with the M16 rifle version of the AR design were well known.

In Vietnam, the M16 quit functioning so frequently that many photos from the mid-60’s show soldiers and Marines with cleaning roods taped to their rifles to clear cartridge casings that failed to eject.

The root cause of the M16’s reliability issues were the Ljungmann direct impingement gas system that in the words of some, “vomits into its own mouth.”

The cure in Vietnam was heavy lubrication to keep the fouling soft coupled with frequent maintenance. After over 40 years as, the AR platform continues to be a “dirty” weapon and its reliability has only been worsened by the large scale changeover to 14.5 inch barreled M4.

(Actually, there are two versions of the M4 – the base M4 that is semiautomatic or three round burst capable and the M4A1 that is capable of full auto fire. The latter is used primarily by Special Forces, while the M4 is predominantly used by “Big Army.”)

The issues inherent with the M4 were long ago reported by the first units to use the weapon – IE: Special Forces.

In fact, a 2000 SOCOM study regarding the M4A1 stated in part, “All…M16-based carbines and the M4A1 are fundamentally flawed.”1

Problems identified included failures to extract, broken bolts, burst barrels, cookoffs, loosened barrels and in extreme cases, blown receivers. In addition to these problems, both carbines have reliability issues in a desert environment engendered by the need to keep them heavily lubricated because of the fouling engendered by the direct impingement gas system. In the “sandbox” environment of Afghanistan and Iraq, the lubricant becomes a “dust magnet,” actually attracting the fine talcum powder like sand that seems to get into everything. When combined with the lubricant, the dust turns into a “goo” that brings cycling to a halt, which isn’t exactly what one wants or needs in a firefight. The same is true if the carbine is run dry, since it depends on lubricant to function.

HK XM8 Modular Assault System Rifle

The reports of malfunctions and the issues mentioned above led the Army to evaluate alternative carbines in 2007 in an environment as close as possible to that encountered in desert combat zones. Ten sample carbines of each of four candidates were test fired for a total of 6,000 rounds each. It isn’t our point here to go through the exact test procedures, but the test protocol was fairly close to “real world” operational conditions and when the dust settled (No pun intended.), the Colt M4 was dead last with 882 stoppages/malfunctions. The next worst, H&K’s 416 had only 233 disabling stoppages. The Mark 16 SCAR was almost in a dead heat with 226 stoppages. Best was the XM8 with just 127 stoppages. Of course, the XM8 program was long ago terminated by Congress because it had been concluded that it didn’t do anything significantly better than the M16 rifle, so just why the XM8 was even included except perhaps as a baseline is questionable.

By late 2008, the Army bureaucracy decided that what was needed was an entirely new carbine to replace the M4 family, although the problems with the M4 were restricted to the upper receiver that attaches to the lower receiver via two pins.

What this means is that the upper receiver can be replaced in a matter of seconds by simply pressing our the two retaining pins, dropping on a new upper receiver and pressing the pins back in to lock the new received in place.

POF-USA P416 14 11sx 223 Rifle

This is a VERY important point.
Special Forces long ago began solving the M4’s inherent issues by just dropping on a new upper receiver that eliminated the direct impingement gas system and replaced it with a gas piston and operating rod. This was Heckler and Koch’s HK416. But there was an issue with the HK 416 as well. Although not widely reported, the HK416s operating rod return spring that was in close proximity to the carbine’s chamber area could be damaged by heat. An alternative that was never formally procured by the military was Precision Ordnance Factory’s P416 that not only uses a piston and operating rod, but runs without any lubrication whatsoever. We know of at least one Special Forces Team that deployed to Afghanistan equipped entirely with M4A1 carbines with POF 416 upper receivers. One of the officers on this team, who must remain anonymous, informed us that the POF equipped carbines had virtually zero stoppages and weren’t affected by the dust. Informal feedback from other POF combat users indicates that the weapons deliver almost unbelievable levels of reliability and longevity. We have conducted long term testing of semiautomatic versions of the POF system in both .223 and .308 and can attest to the fact that it runs without lubrication of any kind and that the receiver remains remarkably clean and virtually free of fouling.

In November 2009 the Army invited 19 small arms manufacturers to an “industry day” in Washington, DC in an effort to see what industry was capable of producing. At this point what the Army will do about the M4 isn’t clear, but we believe that one point is worth mentioning – there really is no need for a completely new carbine like the Mk 16 SCAR, because whatever issues there are can be rectified without spending the millions needed for an entirely new weapon.

Vltor Weapons System’s Modstock EMOD Combo Kit - Flat Dark Earth

The dust, lubrication and heat problems can be resolved by purchasing the POF P416 upper receiver that just drops into place. If a new caliber like he 6.8mm SPC is wanted, that is as easy as changing upper receivers as well. If users don’t like the cheek weld on the M4’s collapsible stock, stocks with cheek rests better than the fixed stock M16 are available. An example is Vltor Weapons System’s Modstock. Again, we have used the Modstock extensively on our personal POF carbine that rides in the trunk of our cruiser at the police department and recommend it to anyone who has an M4 type carbine, whether semi- or full auto. You’re right, gentle (or not so gentle) reader, we like POF carbines and Vltor accessories, but we have the opportunity to shoot a LOT of AR-type carbines and these are the ones we prefer over all others.

The bottom line is that the M4/M4A1 as currently configured isn’t going to be around much longer. As the eight year old SOCOM study stated, the design is “fundamentally flawed” and should long ago have been redesigned or replaced.

An New Carbine Is Not Necessary
To reiterate, an entirely new carbine is neither necessary nor desirable. The M4 design is well known and spare parts and suppliers are in place. An entirely new weapon would necessitate not only new weapons production, but new spare parts production as well, with duplicate parts inventories being necessary for years to come. Moreover, the M4/M4A1’s issues are capable of being rectified in a fraction of the time and at a fraction of the cost of an entirely new weapon. (Related News: See also Adams Arms AR15FIX Retro-Fit Piston)

Finally, the technology already exists to upgrade the M4/M4A1 to the levels of reliability that our nation’s soldiers deserve. It has been said that getting anything done in the Army bureaucracy is like mating elephants – it is done at very high levels with a lot of bellowing and it takes two years to get anything done. The Army bureaucracy long ago identified the M4’s problems, the bellowing has been going on for over eight years and our soldiers are still plagued with the same “fundamentally flawed” carbine they had when the problems were identified. It’s very close to a national scandal that many of our troops are forced to obtain high reliability upper receivers like the POF 416 on their own!

It’s high time for the Army bureaucracy to quit dithering and get something done to give our troops the weapon they need and deserve!

Charlie Cutshaw

About the Author:
Charlie Cutshaw is a well-known U.S. authority on military small arms and has an extensive experience as a former U.S. Army infantry, ordnance ammunition and intelligence officer. He is an editor for Jane’s Infantry Weapons and contributing author for other military and firearms publications. When not writing Charlie is a part time police officer in Alabama. Si vis pacem, para bellum MOLON LABE!

FNH SCAR 16s Carbine Black

FNH USA

McLean, Va. --(Ammoland.com)- McLean, Va --(AmmoLand.com)- FNH USA is cautious in releasing any information due to the nature of the pledge to our customers.

We can, however, reiterate that the MK 16 (5.56mm variant), MK 17 (7.62mm variant) and the MK 13 Enhanced Grenade Launcher Module (40mm), which make up the SCAR family of weapons, have each met, and in our opinion exceeded, all of the USSOCOM program requirements. It is also a matter of record that the SCAR has been proven to be superior to existing legacy assault rifles after numerous Department of Defense tests in both lab and field environments.

FNH USA believes the fact that the SCAR program recently passed Milestone C and was determined to be operationally effective / operationally suitable (OE/OS) for fielding, highlights the tremendous capability the weapons system offers deployed special operators.

FNH USA believes the issue is not whether the SCAR, and specifically the MK 16 variant, is the superior weapon system available today …it has already been proven to be just that. The issue is whether or not the requirement for a 5.56mm replacement outweighs the numerous other requirements competing for the customers’ limited budget. That is a question that will only be determined by the customer.

While we know that the MK 17, to include the “common receiver” and corresponding 5.56mm conversion kit is an option, other Services and SOF components will have the ability to procure the MK 16 stand-alone rifle under the contract if it better meets their mission requirements.

In conclusion, the management and employees of FN are proud to provide this generation of special operators their first, entirely new assault rifle that meets and, in our opinion, exceeds the demands of today’s battlefield.

FNH USA is the sales and marketing arm of FN Herstal, S.A., Belgium. Its corporate mission is to expand its global leadership position in defense, law enforcement and commercial markets by delivering superior products and the finest in training and logistical support. Visit www.fnhusa.com to view the entire line of FNH USA products and services. FNH USA, P.O. Box 697, McLean, VA, 22101, U.S.A.

Meprolight Becomes Partner in Pulse Inteco Systems

Meprolight

Or Akiva, Israel --(Ammoland.com)- Meprolight, a provider of innovative weapon sights, today announced that it has become a partner in Pulse Inteco Systems, a provider of electro-optical and laser-based systems and equipment.

Meprolight and Pulse Inteco systems are members of the Samy Katsav Group, a global group of defense companies, including Israel Weapons Industries (IWI), Israel Shipyards, Uniscop, Global Shield and SIO.

The synergy between the companies will further position the group as a leading provider of sophisticated and comprehensive electro-optical solutions for infantry and armed forces.

ABOUT PULSE INTECO SYSTEMS
Pulse Inteco systems (www.pulseinteco.com ) specializes in the development, production, marketing and supply of a wide range of electro-optical equipment including laser transmitters, handheld and computer controlled eye-safe laser range finders, sniper fire control sights, night vision systems, laser aiming devices and other products.

ABOUT MEPROLIGHT
Meprolight designs and manufactures a wide array of electro-optical and optical sights and devices, night vision devices, thermal sights and a wide variety of night sights and other tritium- and LED-illuminated products and accessories for safety and security applications for the law enforcement, military and civilian communities. For more information about Meprolight visit www.meprolight.com.

Meprolight Mepro GLS Self-Illuminated Optical Sight for 40mm Grenade Launcher

Meprolight

Or Akiva, Israel --(Ammoland.com)- Meprolight, a provider of innovative weapon sights, today announced an enhanced version of Mepro GLS, a self-illuminated optical sight for 40mm grenade launcher, installed on assault rifles.

The enhanced version of Mepro GLS enables effective fire against light armor and infantry targets up to a range of 400 meters, instead of 350 meters in the previous version. In addition, the enhanced version enables range estimation.

Mepro GLS dual illuminated optical sight operates under all lighting and weather conditions for 5-8 years without the use of batteries or any other external power source. The sight provides a 24-hour-a-day solution for the fighter. The light weight, compact unit, only 62mm (2.44 inches) long, mounts with three different mounting adapters to standard top and side rails.

“Mepro GLS solves the aiming limitations of grenade launchers, helping soldiers determine the elevation to the target, maximizing first round hit probability,” said Golan Kalimi, Meprolight’s Vice President Marketing.

“Achieving high accuracy is no longer a problem. The soldier simply superimposes the illuminated dot in the sight window onto the target.”

During the day, a light collector tube concentrates available ambient light into a dot and projects it onto the sight lens. At night, a small tritium light source supplies the light for the dot.

About Meprolight
Meprolight designs and manufactures a wide array of electro-optical and optical sights and devices, night vision devices, thermal sights and a wide variety of night sights and other tritium- and LED-illuminated products and accessories for safety and security applications for the law enforcement, military and civilian communities. For more information about Meprolight visit www.meprolight.com.

SOF Combat Assault Rifle (SCAR)

FNH USA

McLean, VA --(AmmoLand.com)- FNH USA, LLC received notification from the USSOCOM Program Executive Office—SOF Warrior (PEO—SW) that the SCAR Acquisition Decision Memorandum (ADM) was approved and signed on April 14, 2010, moving this FN Herstal (FN) program into the Milestone C phase.

This decision authorizes the production and deployment of the Special Operations Forces (SOF) Combat Assault Rifle (SCAR) MK 16 and MK 17, as well as the Enhanced Grenade Launcher Module (EGLM) MK 13.

Following a worldwide solicitation to the military firearms industry, nine vendors submitted a dozen different designs for a new modular, multi-caliber weapons system. The FN SCAR submission was the only weapons system to pass all of the Go/No-Go criteria and was unanimously chosen in November 2004 by the selection board composed of senior operators from every SOF component. The SCAR is the first new assault rifle procured by the U.S. Military through a full and open competition since the M16 trials were held in the mid-1960s.

Tests in reliability, accuracy, safety and ergonomics were administered from August 2005 to September 2008 and were conducted in a variety of environments including urban, maritime, jungle and winter/mountain operational test scenarios. The SCAR weapons system successfully endured more than two million rounds of ammunition during these trials, therein making it one of the most heavily tested weapons in the history of small arms.

“The SCAR is one of the most tested small arms in our military’s history and is currently being employed in the fight to defend freedom,” said United States Senator Lindsey Graham (R-SC), member of the Senate Armed Services Committee. “Products of excellence, like the SCAR, represent the continuation of a long and proud tradition of defense manufacturing in South Carolina. I look forward to the continued use of this weapons system.”

The FN SCAR system consists of two highly adaptable modular rifle platforms and a grenade launcher. Type-designated as the MK 16 MOD 0 5.56mm Special Operations Forces Combat Assault Rifle and the MK 17 MOD 0 7.62mm Special Operations Forces Combat Assault Rifle, both weapons are available with three different barrel lengths optimized for conducting operations in close-quarters combat, standard infantry and longer-range precision fire roles. All SCAR barrels can be easily interchanged by the operator in just minutes to instantly meet the requirements of virtually any mission.

The MK 13 MOD 0 40mm Enhanced Grenade Launcher Module (EGLM) quickly mounts under the barrel of either SCAR platform, providing additional capability to the individual warfighter’s firepower, and can be easily configured for use as a stand-alone weapon as well. Because of the SCAR system’s modular design, ergonomic commonality (100%) and parts commonality (greater than 80%), it represents a significant reduction in training costs and life-cycle support. The weapon system’s open architecture is designed to support future advancements in operational requirements including ammunition, aiming devices, sighting systems and other mission critical equipment.

“The SCAR weapons system is a major USSOCOM program whose success is a direct result of the effort, commitment and teamwork provided by FN and the U.S. Government. We are extremely pleased to have had the opportunity to work with such a strong team in achieving the Milestone C decision,” said Mark Cherpes, Vice President of Military Operations for FNH USA.

“This milestone signifies that our products are operationally effective and suitable for mass fielding. We believe that the SCAR is the most flexible, reliable and cost-effective small arms weapons system ever offered to America’s servicemen and women, and that it will give them a significant operational advantage in both present and future conflicts.”

FN firearms manufactured in the United States are produced by FN Manufacturing in Columbia, SC. The Herstal Group is represented by FNH USA, FN Manufacturing and Browning within the United States and directly employs more than 1,000 individuals. U.S. operations are located in Virginia, South Carolina, Utah and Missouri. FNH USA is the sales and marketing arm of FN. Its corporate mission is to expand the company’s global leadership position in defense, law enforcement and commercial markets by delivering superior products and the finest in training and logistical support.

For more information, or to view the entire line of FN products, visit www.fnhusa.com. FNH USA, LLC, P.O. Box 697, McLean, VA 22101 USA.

TurboDyne Suppressor for .50 BMG Rifles

AWC Systems Technology

PHOENIX, AZ – -(AmmoLand.com)- When deploying a .50 BMG rifle in any trouble situation, silence is the key to keeping the operator safe and hidden.

The TurboDyne suppressor from AWC Systems Technology was designed to be the most compact, effective and quiet .50 caliber suppressor on the market.

AWC designed the TurboDyne to reduce the bang of the mighty .50 BMG rifles to a mere thump. Constructed out of 100-percent stainless steel and 360-degree circumferentially welded for added strength, the TurboDyne produces less noise than a .22LR. By reducing the concussion associated with firing a .50 BMG, operators are able to shoot comfortably for hours.”

Overall weight and length vary by individual needs and design, but diameter is 2 inches. Standard finishes are matte black and matte stainless steel. The TurboDyne can be fitted to most semi-auto and bolt-action .50-caliber rifles, mounting directly to the current muzzle brake threads without modification to the gun. The suppressor is also available for rifles chambered in .416 caliber.

AWC Systems Technology has provided suppressed weapons systems to the U.S. Army, Navy, Air Force and Marine Corps, major law enforcement agencies nationwide, the Department of the Interior, the Department of Energy, federal and state correctional facilities and Special Forces units in Central America and the Middle East. AWC Systems Technology now sells to consumers who want to experience the comfort, accuracy and enjoyment of shooting with the advanced technology, quality and durability found in AWC Systems Technology products.

For more information about the TurboDyne 50, visit awcsystech.com.

Steiner’s New 10X50 Military Binocular Rangefinder

Steiner Optics

MOORESTOWN, NJ — Renowned the world over for the extreme durability and reliability of its military binoculars, Steiner is charting new territory with the addition of its new 10×50 Military Binocular Laser Rangefinder (LRF), a lightweight, laser-rangefinding binocular.

Unique and compact in design, the new 10×50 Military LRF is based on Steiner’s own military-tested/military-approved, tried-and true Porro-prism configuration. It integrates sleek two-button interface and a powerful laser rangefinder that outpaces its competition with a maximum ranging distance of 1,600 yards.

The 10×50 Military LRF’s built-in laser rangefinder utilizes an eye-safe invisible FDA Class 1 laser in the left half of the unit. The digital display is superimposed over the image seen in the unit’s right half. By centering the target display on the subject while touching and releasing the “RANGING” button located on top of the right half, the digital display will provide an accurate distance value nearly instantaneously. Holding the ranging button for more than three seconds activates the unit’s scan mode, which is especially helpful when measuring small or moving targets. Scan mode switches off automatically after 20 seconds to conserve battery life.

The 10X50 Military LRF has a wide measurement range from 20 yards to 1,600 yards. With sunshine and good visibility, the unit’s accuracy is within one yard at ranges up to 380 yards, within two yards to 763 yards, and within approximately one-half of one percent to 1,600 yards. The Military LRF is also capable of being switched to provide metric measurements via the “SET” button.

A single, easily accessible 3-volt CR123A battery powers the 10×50 Military LRF laser rangefinder. A new battery will provide in excess of 5,000 individual measurements at 68 degrees F. A flashing display indicates a low-battery condition.

By utilizing the Porro-prism design, the 10×50 is superior to a comparable binocular of roof-prism design because it loses less light, thus providing brighter image reproduction. In addition, Porro prisms provide distortion-free images without the costly addition of phase coatings, and they afford users greater three-dimensional viewing due to the offset lenses. The high-definition mil-spec optical elements provide maximum image clarity and brightness with edge-to-edge sharpness. User focus is set by individual ocular adjustments, which allow for a depth of field from approximately 30 yards to infinite distance, with little or no readjustment needed for varying distances.

The new Steiner 10×50 Military LRF is pressurized with dry nitrogen fill and is waterproof to a depth of 16 feet. The chassis is made with Makrolon®, a fiber reinforced polycarbonate material that is extremely impact resistant. All alloy components are anodized, and external metal parts are finished in enamel to prevent corrosion. The advanced military-oriented design is armored with nitrile butadiene rubber (NBR) making the new Steiner 10×50 Military LRF exceptionally rugged, yet it’s surprisingly light in weight at approximately 46 ounces.

Available in January 2010, the suggested retail price is approximately $2,600.

Headquartered in Germany, Steiner has been widely acknowledged as a world leader in the manufacturing of quality binoculars since 1947. In addition to the outdoor, hunting and marine markets, Steiner provides products to military and law enforcement worldwide. Allied forces around the world, including the U.S. Army and countless law enforcement agencies, have made Steiner their binocular of choice. Pioneer Research is Steiner’s exclusive marketing agent and distributor for North America, including USA, Canada, the Caribbean and Mexico. For more information, write: Pioneer Research, 97 Foster Road, Moorestown, NJ 08057; call toll-free 1-800-257-7742; or visit the company website at www.steiner-binoculars.com.

Technical Characteristics:

• U.S. Item number: 398
• Magnification: 10X
• Entrance pupil: 50 mm
• Exit pupil: 5 mm
• Eye relief: 15.8 mm
• Twilight factor: 22.4
• Luminosity: 25.0
• Field of view @ 1,000 yards: 348 feet
• Diopter range: ± 5 dpt
• Interpupillary distance: 2.2 – 2.9 inches
• Operating temperature: -4° / +140° F
• Storage temperature: -40° / +176° F
• Waterproof depth: 5 meters/16 feet
• Binocular weight: 45.9 ounces
• Height: 5.4 inches
• Width: 8.1 inches
• Depth: 3.9 inches
• Suggested retail price: $2,600

Be sure to visit us at Booth #621 at the SHOT Show in Las Vegas.

About:
Headquartered in Germany, Steiner has been an acknowledged leader in the manufacturing of quality binoculars since 1947. In addition to the outdoor, hunting and marine markets, Steiner provides products to military and law enforcement worldwide. Allied forces around the world, including the U.S. Army and countless law enforcement agencies, have made Steiner their binocular of choice. For more information contact: Pioneer Research, 97 Foster Road, Moorestown, NJ 08057 or call toll free 1-800- 257-7742 or you can visit the interactive web site at www.steiner-binoculars.com.

RAP4 T68 Paintball Markers

Real Action Paintball

Fort Hunter, California --(AmmoLand.com)- Real Action Paintball is proud to supply the latest in force-on-force training equipment to the US Army soldiers who train at Fort Hunter Liggett in central California.

Military personnel use RAP4 products in actual combat training, where they engage character actors and static targets, dynamic OpFor, and learn to detect IEDs.

RAP4 paintball guns enable them to conduct safe training in tactics and protocol on facilities that are not designed for normal small arms fire.

Paintball guns in the T68 series are currently being used by many military and law enforcement units, as the T68 perfectly replicates the ergonomics, point of aim, and controls of the M16 family of small arms.

The T68 paintball guns shoot marking paintballs, which cost far less than firearm ammunition and are considerably safer to shoot indoors and in dynamic scenarios. Other special training rounds for the T68 paintball guns feature different fills for different facilities: pure water for when you can’t leave splats behind, and powder when you need visual confirmation of hits but have to keep the mess to a minimum. The T68 paintball guns have proven reliable, durable, and innovative enough to win the prestigious Law Enforcement Technology 2009 “Innovation Award.”

Innovative military combat training has never been so important. With deployment into hostile territories where they encounter a new kind of foe, military personnel of all specialties are now receiving life-saving combat training. The RAP4 T68 paintball guns make that training as real as it gets, while keeping operating costs down and allowing trainers to use an unprecedented variety of facilities and materials in their drills. There is nothing like the kinetic reinforcement of being hit with a paintball round to reinforce critical lessons, and there is no experience quite like taking fire to prepare soldiers for the rigors of real combat.

Soldiers are engaging threats at pointblank range in theater, as they clear buildings and must sort in a moment between threats and civilians. Much of modern combat occurs in cities and complicated urban environments, where our soldiers are vulnerable to threats from all angles. Training for building entry and searches requires elaborate structures be built that can withstand small arms fire while replicating real world dwellings…but when units train with the T68 paintball markers, they don’t have to worry about stopping bullets – just paintballs. This allows facility designers significantly more freedom in creating scenarios and training structures, and affords a level of trainee safety unavailable with duty arms.

RAP4 is proud to assist our soldiers in their CQB training at Fort Hunter Liggett, and around the world, by providing equipment and resources that get them ready to ship out. Real Action Paintball – as real as it gets!

About:
RAP4 is recognized as a leader in compressed air-powered marking technology, with patented innovations for military and law enforcement tools and industry-leading paintball sport equipment. Headquartered in San Jose, California, RAP4 has distributors across America and around the world. Trained staff members are available by phone or in person for consultations, and to troubleshoot or train your personnel on use of their equipment. visit www.rap4lesslethal.com

Thor Global Defense Xm408 Sniper Rifle

THOR Global Defense Group

Fort Chaffee, Arkansas --(AmmoLand.com)- THOR Global Defense Group provided a demonstration of the THOR XM408 at Fort Chaffee, Arkansas’ annual sniper competition. The event brought together sniper teams from the Army, Air Force, Marine Corps and Navy to compete against one-another in a week-long event, which ended Friday November 13th.

THOR allowed the teams to test fire the THOR XM408 rifle for target engagement at varying distances. The THOR XM408, which was announced earlier this year, was developed as a collaborative effort between Bill Ritchie’s EDM Arms and THOR staff to create the ultimate in long range shooting systems.

Thor Global Defense Group Tests Thor Xm408 At Sniper Competition

The XM408 rifle is a CNC and EDM machined receiver and bolt with a fully adjustable stock, 30” chrome lined barrel, and 5 round magazine. This exceptional platform which is chambered in .408 CheyTac is capable of effectively engaging targets at distances previously thought impossible.

THOR Global Defense Group is a dynamic organization created to meet the increasing demand for advanced weapon platforms, security services, and training. THOR is able to handle all aspects of security effectively and professionally.

Thor Global Defense Group Tests Thor Xm408 At Sniper Competition

About:
THOR Global Defense Group offers security services, weapons & equipment, training and on-site ranges. Our security services vary from Risk Management to Executive Protection services, as well as consulting. We offer worldwide training for civilians, Law Enforcement and Military.

With THOR, you can purchase a weapon and become fully trained on it at our expansive facility. Please visit the THOR website at www.thorgdg.com.

ATK

MINNEAPOLIS, MN --(AmmoLand.com)- Alliant Techsystems (NYSE: ATK) has been awarded a $21 million contract by the U.S. Army Aberdeen Contracting Center at Aberdeen Proving Grounds, MD, to supply various types of non-standard (non-NATO) weapon systems for the security forces of Afghanistan.

The contract runs through fall 2010, and represents ATK’s successful expansion into the supply of non-standard small-caliber and crew-served weapon systems.

This is ATK’s third contract from the U.S. Army to supply non-standard products to the security forces of Afghanistan.

ATK’s Small Caliber Systems division in Independence, Mo., will bring to bear its production, quality, and supply chain management capabilities to qualify and integrate a team of proven international manufacturers, primarily from Eastern Europe, for the on-time delivery to the Afghan security forces of quality, non-standard infantry weapon systems.

“ATK successfully demonstrated its technical and international supply chain management capabilities under its first non-standard ammunition contract for Afghanistan in early 2009,” said Mark DeYoung, ATK Senior Vice President and President Armament Systems.

“This initial contract was successfully completed with quality munitions delivered into Afghanistan on schedule and on budget. As part of an ongoing, aggressive international outreach strategy, we continue to build on that success, expanding our global presence and rapidly delivering quality armament systems solutions and the best value for our customers.”

ATK is a premier aerospace and defense company with more than 18,000 employees in 22 states, Puerto Rico and internationally, and revenues of approximately $4.8 billion. News and information can be found on the Internet at www.atk.com.