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Archive for the ‘Gear’ Category

Sara Ahrens OffBeat: Corner Shot

Sunday, November 27th, 2011

If you watch Top Shot at all, you probably remember Sara Ahrens. She is a patrol sergeant with the Rockford (IL) Police Department and appeared on Top Shot Season 3. Recently she had occasion to try out the “Corner-Shot”, an oft-maligned and largely piece of kit. Here opinion is below. It’s interesting that she very politely points out where someone showed a lack of understanding towards the specificity and niche use of the Corner Shot. Was it truly a lack of understanding? Yes, it certainly was. You can be really good at something and still be ignorant of others. Many of us have been shooters, some in Tier One, high end units. We absolutely respect that, but that doesn’t make any of us the grand master of tactics. Blithely disdaining a piece of equipment, or a TTP, without taking into account the context in which it is intended to be used, is just foolish.

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Mayflower Kit Thanksgiving Contest with Soldier Systems

Thursday, November 24th, 2011

Mayflower asked Soldier Systems to find a deserving home for one of their Assault Packs and UW Gen IV Chest Rigs.  SSD can’t think of a better group to honor than their readership, so it’s being given away tomorrow based on readership today. To enter, tell them what you’re thankful for in the comments section below the article.

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Beard Beanies

Tuesday, November 22nd, 2011

Beard Beanies is a series of headgear with a unique twist: attached to each beanie is a knitted beard that covers and protects the wearer’s face, making them great for any number of outdoor activities. Models include the ECO2, Jeep Cap, and LumberJack, made from materials such as 40 Gram thinsulate and Jimtex recycled cotton fibers. Each beanie is also hand-made to order, so you’re looking at a minimum of 5 business days before shipping.

Beard Beanies

GoPro HERO NVG Mount

Monday, November 21st, 2011

One category where the GoPro HERO series of cameras excels is in their wide variety of mounting options, which includes the GoPro NVG Mount. With it, one can easily attach either the HERO or HERO2 to any helmet with a Night Vision mounting plate, allowing them to record excellent footage without installing any additional mounts on their equipment.

GoPro – NVG Mount

Carbon Fiber Full Body Armor: Stormtroopers

Tuesday, November 15th, 2011

Forget the Kryron Terminator Armor System or Dragonskin…the future of head to toe full body armor is here, and it looks eerily familiar. Engineering technician Leonard Carson woks for San Diego Composites. He convinced some of his buddies at work to help with his dream of creating actual storm trooper armor out of carbon fiber. Apparently they were all big Star Wars fans, so it was a pretty easy sell. Now, in fairness we’re not actually saying this armor provides ballistic protection (nor do they claim it) but it’s certainly pretty kewl to look at and who knows? Maybe some day a fully articulated, lightweight, serviceable set of real level IV body armor will be available. Then when SWAT teams go in after an armed and barricaded suspect they can play some good music over the same loudspeakers they were previously using to make announcements. (“Suspect inside the residence at 1616 S. Walnut, this is the police. You have five more minutes to lay down your weapon and walk onto the front porch with your hands in the air…n0? Okay Bull, cue the orchestra!”)

Read the whole article.

Covert & Disguised Weapons

Thursday, October 27th, 2011

ALCON: When we ran this post first thing this morning, we weren’t aware it originated at John Lindsay’s Don’t Even Reply. We’re happy to have been advised and you can bet we’ll now be frequent readers henceforth. Also, check out E-mails from an asshole.

ORIGINAL TEXT:

We got this as a forward from a very good friend who was one of the team that developed the 5.11 Tactical COVRT series, which we really like. (In fairness, he’s actually involved in almost all the tactical gear development and T&E at 5.11 Tactical…we must give him props for this. It’s a copy from a forum thread, apparently someone taking themselves just a little too seriously (or intentionally screwing with someone) and it’s just too damn funny not to share. Thanks for bringing it to our attention Big D, you’re all right (despite your ears and somewhat vacuous look!) 5.11 is lucky to have ya.

WARNING: Strong language. Be aware there is substantial profanity in this, particularly as the recipient of the e-mails grows increasing frustrated. If you don’t like the f-bomb or colorful invective offends you, skip this post and go someplace safer.

Disguised Weapons
Original ad:
**** Disguisable weapons wanted ****
Wanted: hidden blades, belt buckle knives, cane swords, etc…..
Offering: cash, items for barter

From Me to **********@***********.org:

Hey,

I saw your ad looking for concealable/disguised weapons. I have several fine-crafted items you may be interested in. Respond if you are interested and I will send you pictures and prices.

Thanks,

Mike

From Jeff ****** to Me:

I am. lets see what you got.

From Me to Jeff ******:

Jeff,

Here you go:

Looks like a normal spoon, right?

Wrong. It is actually a deadly 2.5″ half-smooth, half-serrated knife with tactical grip. One minute you are enjoying a bowl of cereal, and the next you are fighting off attackers with this deadly and disguised weapon.

I am asking $50 for the blade. Let me know if you want to stop by and take a look at it.

Mike

From Jeff ****** to Me:

that is stupid as hell and looks like crap. unless you have anything better to offer, dont waste my time.

From Me to Jeff ******:

Jeff,

I am sorry you feel that way about the spoon blade. I do have some other weapons that I think you will feel differently about.

Mike

From Jeff ****** to Me:

fine. but if it is another knife duct taped to a spoon then you can fuck off.

From Me to Jeff ******:

Jeff,

Thank you for re-considering. Here are three quality disguised weapons that I think you will love:

At first glance, this looks like a normal party cup. However, if you look close enough, you will see that it is really a fully automatic Glock 18C. You will be able to pour your enemies a nice warm cup of lead with this fine purchase. Asking $900 for the gun/cup combo.

Still thirsty for justice? Try this badass M16A2 disguised as a 24-pack of soda. The box has two finely crafted holes on each side to allow for any kind of optics (not included) that you wish to attach. This weapon is only for sale if you have a Class III permit.

This cleverly disguised weapon may look like a tissue box, but is actually a Benelli M3 12 gauge shotgun disguised as a tissue box. The ultra-soft quilted tissues serve as a comfortable grip on the pump-action shotgun. Also, if you find yourself sneezing during the heat of combat, you will have a handy tissue box ready for action. Asking $1500 for the weapon. Additional tissue boxes are an extra $5 per box.

Let me know if you want any of these items.

Thanks,

Mike

From Jeff ****** to Me:

youre a fucking dumbass, shitbrained, asswipe, retarded dipshit. you prob walk around with that shit too you dumb mother fucker. I hope you get hit by a car. fuck off, eat shit, and die.

PEO Soldier Posts Some New Pics of Kit

Thursday, October 20th, 2011

PEO Soldier has posted some new pictures of kit over the last few days. We figured we’d share them with you.

Individual MCEP Goggles:

The Army Combat Pant (ACP) is a flame resistant pant designed for use in rugged combat environments. The ACP features a ruggedized, anti-abrasion coated seat panel, stronger twill fabric in the body of the pants, and stretch fabric at key stress points. The ACP has integrated, removable hard-shell knee pads with both horizontal and vertical points of adjustment built into the pants.

The flame-resistant (FR) Army Combat Shirt (ACS) is worn under the Soldier’s Interceptor Body Armor instead of the Army Combat Uniform or the Army Aircrew Combat Uniform jacket and standard-issue T-shirt, reducing bulk for Soldiers operating in extreme climates.

Ares Armor Range Trip

Friday, September 30th, 2011

Range Trip from john lawrence on Vimeo.

Check out this video from Ares Armor’s recent Range Trip. The quality is simply amazing.


http://www.aresarmor.com/

Jtech Japanese Woodland Camo Sale

Wednesday, September 21st, 2011

Jtech is currently having a 20%-off sale on a selection of their nylon tactical gear in Japanese SDF Woodland camouflage. The sale ends October 2nd, so get yours while you still can.

Jtech – Japanese Woodland Camo Sale

NTOA – Hazard 4

Sunday, September 18th, 2011

If you’ve been looking for a good shaving kit, then Hazard 4 has just the thing for you.

20110918-031834.jpg

In addition to several compartments to organize your gear, it features an integral hanger as well as a mesh pocket to hold a metal mirror or medicines. Additional pockets accommodate personal admin items such as razors and bottles.

20110918-031954.jpg

www.hazard4.com

NTOA – Marz Tactical Gear

Sunday, September 18th, 2011

20110918-122041.jpg

This is an all inclusive sampling of the Marz plate carrier. This configuration includes the plate carrier with cummerbund, single magazine pouches, IFAK pouch, tourniquet pouch, utility pouches, SSE dump pouch and hydration bladder pouch. All materials are 100% Berry compliant and are available in a wide variety of colors and patterns.

www.marztg.com

NTOA – Specter Gear

Sunday, September 18th, 2011

Specter Gear offers a wide variety of tactical products including their Universal Holster. Offered with two removable leg straps, the holster also comes with a drop leg extender. The universal body expands or contracts based on user selection to accommodate different weapon and light combinations.

20110918-121533.jpg

www.spectergear.com

Operation Irene Assault Backpack

Thursday, August 4th, 2011

Named after “Operation Gothic Serpent”, Codenamed “Irene”, hence the pack’s name, the Operation Irene Assault Backpack is a medium sized backpack designed for short range reconnaissance patrol. Features include a main pouch which can hold up to 13L, 1000D Nylon construction and YKK buckles. The pack also supports hydration bladders up to 3L and is compatible with the J-TECH compression stuff sack.

J-TECH Operation Irene Assault Backpack

Advanced Outfitters at BLADE Show

Wednesday, August 3rd, 2011

This is video of Kevin Martin of Advanced Outfitters demonstrating the company’s showings at BLADE Show 2011, including the new Khyber belts, adjustable weapons sling and badge sling.

http://advancedoutfitters.com/

Ares Armor Company Promo Video

Sunday, July 31st, 2011

This excellent promo vid by Ares Armor Company showcases their products not by blatantly stating their intended uses, but by getting out in the field and using them. Ares’s full range of slings, packs, rigs and the EFFIN-A compensator are featured in full force, but not by name, forcing curious viewers to actually search for the items, which potentially drums up more interest. A smart move on Ares’s part that sets a new standard for promo vids.

http://www.aresarmor.com/

C4OPS Skull Cap

Saturday, June 18th, 2011

Silynx Communications has introduced the C4OPS Skull Cap. Designed to cover the Warfighter’s ears for enhanced in ear bud retention and to serve as a wind noise protector, the new Skull Cap integrates right into the C4OPS system. It is manufactured from a light-gauge fabric with an absorbent liner and keeps your head dry and comfy even when worn under a helmet. It features the new Silynx Bad Ass logo and Silynx will contribute $10 for each of the first 1,000 Skull Caps sold to the Special Operations Warrior Foundation.

www.silynxcom.com

Originally posted on Soldier Systems Daily.

BLADE Show – Final Reminder

Thursday, June 9th, 2011

The 30th annual BLADE Show will be held at the Cobb Galleria Centre in Atlanta, Georgia this year from June 10th to 12th. Hosted by BLADE magazine, BLADE Show is the largest combined show of handmade, factory, and antique knives, with over 700 tables and around 175 factory booths and products. Also available is the first ever Tactical Gear Expo, which features manufactures, dealers and suppliers of tactical firearms, tactical knives, and tactical gear. The best part is you get access to both shows with a single ticket. Combine this with special guest appearances and events and you have the makings of the best BLADE show yet!

I’ll be walking the show tomorrow, so if you’re attending, be on the lookout. Hope to see a few readers there!

Visit bladeshow.com for more information on the upcoming expos, including the event schedule and list of exhibitors.

BLADE Show – Second Reminder

Thursday, June 2nd, 2011

The 30th annual BLADE Show will be held at the Cobb Galleria Centre in Atlanta, Georgia this year from June 10th to 12th. Hosted by BLADE magazine, BLADE Show is the largest combined show of handmade, factory, and antique knives, with over 700 tables and around 175 factory booths and products. Also available is the first ever Tactical Gear Expo, which features manufactures, dealers and suppliers of tactical firearms, tactical knives, and tactical gear. The best part is you get access to both shows with a single ticket. Combine this with special guest appearances and events and you have the makings of the best BLADE show yet!

Visit bladeshow.com for more information on the upcoming expos, including the event schedule and list of exhibitors.

Ghost Army Tactical Multicam “Penumbra” Snipers Tactical Boonie Concealment Cap

Monday, May 23rd, 2011

Ghost Army Tactical is now working on their own line of gear, including the “Penumbra” Boonie. Each Penumbra is made from 50/50 NYCO Ripstop US Army Issue Multicam low IR Glow material. 550 Para cord attachment points cover the hat, allowing for the addition of gillie suit scrim, while loop Velcro panels allow for the attachment of patches, IR glint tape, and an IR distress beacon attachment. Heavy duty abrasion resistant nylon mesh covers the top of the hat, keeping the wearer cool while keeping sunlight out. Each “Penumbra” is custom made to order and is manufactured in the USA.

“Penumbra” – Ghost Army Tactical Store

OPS-CORE Helmet In MW3

Saturday, May 21st, 2011

It was brought to my attention that MW3 will feature OPS-CORE FAST helmets, based on these images. Pretty cool. Who knows what other gear we’ll see when the game gets released? After all, they’re starting to show manufactures on the firearm models.

Hat Tip: John Panchalk

BLADE Show

Wednesday, May 18th, 2011

The 30th annual BLADE Show will be held at the Cobb Galleria Centre in Atlanta, Georgia this year from June 10th to 12th. Hosted by BLADE magazine, BLADE Show is the largest combined show of handmade, factory, and antique knives, with over 700 tables and around 175 factory booths and products. Also available is the first ever Tactical Gear Expo, which features manufactures, dealers and suppliers of tactical firearms, tactical knives, and tactical gear. The best part is you get access to both shows with a single ticket. Combine this with special guest appearances and events and you have the makings of the best BLADE show yet!

Visit bladeshow.com for more information on the upcoming expos, including the event schedule and list of exhibitors.

Blackhawk! Advanced Boonie Hat

Friday, May 13th, 2011

It’s the classic Boonie hat design, but with a few modern features added by Blackhawk! to appeal to the modern warrior. The hat itself is 50/50 NYCO with a self fabric brim lining and self fabric side-band branch loops. It includes mesh side vents and crown lining, and a hidden mesh map pocket. A square VELCRO loop on the crown allows for attachment of badges and other materials, and a drawstring with rear cordlock can be used as a chinstrap or cinching cord. The DM3 Desert Digital camo model is shown above, but MultiCam is also available, which I happen to own. It’s a very good Boonie, although I suggest going a half-size above what you normally wear for a hat, otherwise it could be a bit tight.


www.blackhawk.com – Advanced Boonie Hat

Advanced Outfitters Badge Sling

Monday, May 9th, 2011

One of the best things about attending a floor show is wearing a media badge. And one of the best things about wearing a media badge is accompanying it with a great sling. In comes the Advanced Outfitters Badge Sling. Although info is very sparse at the moment, you can bet I’ll be keeping my eye out for this if and when it become available.

Update: Will be available at Blade Show for $12 each. Will be available for retail after that.


advancedoutfitters.com

MultiCam Motorcycle Helmet

Monday, May 9th, 2011

Birddog1911, a member of HDfourms.com, decided to paint his motorcycle helmet in MultiCam using Duracoat paint. It’s a damn fine job, and personally I’d like to know the colors used. I have quite a few things I’d like to Crye-up, and finding the proper colors has been a pain.

More images can be seen here.

Maxpedition SITKA Gearslinger In Transformers: Dark Of The Moon

Thursday, April 28th, 2011

As you can see from these movie stills, main character Sam Witwicky, played by Shia LaBeouf, is wearing a Maxpedition SITKA Gearslinger sometime during the events of the film. Score one for product placement! Also, for those who are interested, there’s no Megan Fox in this movie. She’s been replaced by Rosie Huntington-Whiteley. I suppose opinion differs on whether that’s good or bad, but at least there will still be giant fighting robots!

Check out the Maxpediton SITKA Gearslinger here.

Maxpedition.com

Thanks to Tim Tang of Maxpedition for the photos. Transformers: Dark Of The Moon comes out July 1st, 2011.