Tactical World - Spring 2014 USA

FROM THE EDITORS OF
WORLD OF FIREPOWER
SPRING 2014
U.S. $8.99 DISPLAY UNTIL: 2/25/14
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TW_1402_Cover 11/26/13 3:39 AM Page US_C1
TW_1402_C2 11/22/13 4:05 AM Page C2
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TW_1402_3 11/22/13 4:04 AM Page 3
COVER STORY
8THE HEAVY HITTER
MOSSBERGS 930 SPX
PISTOL GRIP SHOTGUN
With features operators demand, and a price
point that can land it in every squad car and APC,
we ask one question of Mossbergs 930 SPX:
what happens when we mix three inch slug
shells, low-recoil buckshot, turkey loads, and
sporting loads in the same mag tube? Will it be
reliable, tough, and accurate enough to earn its
commission?
BY DAVE NORMAN
Table of Contents
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4 TACTICAL WORLD | SPRING 2014
TW_1402-TOC 11/27/13 11:51 PM Page 4
Each DDM4 model marks the culmination of over a decade of dedication by Daniel Defense to make
the best ries in the world. DDM4s are built to our own Mil-Spec+, featuring dozens of industry-
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Discover all the details that set the DDM4 apart from the
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FIND US ON
MARTY DANIEL
TW_1402_5 11/25/13 1:25 AM Page 5
16 1911 Duty Handguns
32 Duty Sidearms
64 Tactical Rifles
98 Precision Rifles
114 Tactical Shotguns
126 Tactical Gear
EXTRA
7 Letter from the Editor
30 Tactical Blades
96 Shoot This!
130 Parting Shot
On the Cover:
Images by: Tim Rohrbach
Photography for Rock River
Arms, Aimpoint, Tacprogear
Cover Design by: Eric Knagg
56 TACTICAL CENTENARIAN
THE MOSIN-NAGANT GOES TACTI-COOL
You can upgrade a century-old Mosin-Nagant into a
tactical sharpshooter with a little time, and the right
accessories and tools. Heres how to build a real
shooter of a tactical rifle, on the cheap, this weekend.
BY ABE ELIAS
88 THE .22-250...AS A TACTICAL
PRECISION RIFLE? CONSIDER THIS
CALIBER!
How does this groundhog-busting round manage to
out-perform the .308 WIN? It does, even defeating
auto glass barriers more efficiently. So is it time to
adopt the .22-250 for tactical work?
BY CHUCK TAYLOR
106 SWAT-CAPABLE TRAINING
FOR EVERYDAY STREET COPS
The nature of policing has changed already, but more
needs to be done. Take a look at what some schools
are offering every officer training cadet... and why
even street cops these days need armed-first
response training!
BY MARK PRINCE, JIM WEISS AND MICKEY DAVIS
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N
ecessity is the mother of invention, but creativity and
curiosity are in its family, too.
It takes all three to bring us hot calibers like the .300 AAC Black-
out, which is kind of and sort of a .308 made subsonic, and FNs 5.7
x 28mm, which is similarly something of a .223 made into a hand-
gun and PDW caliber. Each solves a need, and each shows a lot of
creativity from developers who were certainly curious how they
could improve over already popular cartridges.
The same thinking drives the innovation of personal defense
weapons, as designers at Heckler & Koch, FN-Herstal and many
other companies adapt new designs (and sometimes new calibers)
to that highly specialized weapon type. Where would we be with-
out free-thinking tinkerers who try to adapt given things to new
purposes, and whowhen that failshave the courage to try some-
thing new?
We celebrate this spirit of thinking outside the box in this issue.
Among other stories, we have a fantastic article speculating on the
.22-250 as a tactical cartridge; an article that explores a new type
of laser sight adapted to shotguns (which we dont think of nor-
mally needing one) that also has a peculiar angle for use on hand-
guns and rifles; and a fascinating piece about making the old new
again by way of turning great-grandpa Vladimirs Mosin-Nagant
into a modern tactical bolt-action rifle. We werent even sure if the
latter could be done, until Abe Elias emerged from his workshop
with some compellingly modern adaptations to that old-school mili-
tary rifle.
It makes us wonder where the next innovations will come from
and how much of a role good old-fashioned tinkering is going to
play. It also makes us look forward to hitting the range for some
recreational shooting, to see what we can impress into tactical ser-
vicein the name of creativity and funbut also to find those true
innovations that give us an edge in our defense.
All taken together, it gets us wondering what kind of cool stuff
well find at SHOT Show in a few weeks and if any of it started out
as creative solutions for peculiar problems.
Editor
EDITORIAL
Group Editorial Manager: Doug Jeffrey
Editor: Dave Norman
Managing Editor: Bethany Miller
Art Director: Thomas Kimball
CONTRIBUTORS
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LETTER FROM THE
EDITOR
Innovation
& Creativity
BY DAVE NORMAN
We werent even sure
if the latter could be done,
until Abe Elias emerged
from his workshop ...
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SPRING 2014 | TACTICAL WORLD 7
TW_1402-Edit.CX 12/3/13 10:37 PM Page 7
The Heavy H
The 930 SPX makes glorious use of rifle-style sights,
TW_1402-Mossberg 11/25/13 1:29 AM Page 8
I
watched the chunk of pumpkin in slow motion as it spun through the
air, disintegrating, whirling its way over the concrete barricades
between my combat bay and the one adjacent. The chunk disap-
peared, then landed with a faint thud. Someone yelled over the wall, Hey,
what are you doing?
Oh, just seeing what buckshot can do to Thanksgiving decorations
WANTING TO BELIEVE NEEDING TO
KNOW
We annihilated that pumpkin with a
Mossberg 930 SPX, and specifically, their
85370 Pistol Grip model that comes
with a Choate pistol grip stock. Its a
shotgun that fascinates us, both for
its reputed ability to hold its own
against much more expensive shot-
guns, and for the hit-and-miss recep-
tion earlier variants received. Among
those whove shot a 930 SPX, you
wont find any middle-ground opinions.
And like many shooters who hadnt, we
wanted to believe in Mossbergs lower-price-point (than competing mod-
els) workhorse. Fortunately, we were in a position to actually test one,
and thus, to see what kind of quality and performance one can expect
from the latest runs of 930 SPX shotguns.
What we found substantiated our excitement.
HEAVY HITTING FIREPOWER
There may not be any common civilian weapon as formidable inside 50
yards as a 12-gauge shotgun. While plenty of single projectile weapons
can be equipped with 50- or 100-round magazines, shot for shot, the 12-
gauge with the right loads is nearly impossible to beat. Thats part of why
police departments have issued them for decades, and folks have used
STORY AND PHOTOS BY DAVE NORMAN
Hitter
Mossbergs 930
SPX Pistol Grip Shotgun
with a bonus: a red fiber optic front sight that gathers light
TW_1402-Mossberg 11/25/13 1:29 AM Page 9
shotguns to guard their homes since
the days of sod huts on the prairie.
They are also, without doubt, the
single most versatile weapon available
to civilians and law enforcement offi-
cers. 12-gauge shotguns can fire a
cloud of tiny lead pellets at a flying
clay disk, or larger steel pellets at a
duck, or still larger lead pellets at an
intruder, or a giant chunk of lead at a
deer. Cartridges like those are com-
monly purchased over the counter.
But with the right ammunition
sources, and professional qualifications
in some cases, shooters can feed their
12-gauge a diet of beanbag less
lethal rounds, mini tear gas canisters,
flares, flechettes, powdered dust door
buster kinetic rounds, multi-projectile
slug and buckshot defense loads,
strung buck, dragons breath, steel
slugs, rubber less lethal balls all
sorts of mean, nasty things that solve
various esoteric tactical problems with
fiendish creativity. I cant think of any
other firearm type that can deliver such
a range of projectiles as shotguns.
Plus, shotguns often do so without
needing to change a thing beyond the
cartridge itself.
From police departments to the front
lines of modern warfare, within homes
and aboard marine vessels, shotguns
provide mission-adapted short-range
defense thats hard to beat.
Theres just one thing they come
in different action types, including
semi-automatic models that require a
portion of the cartridges power (usu-
ally in the form of expanding gas) to
cycle reliably. That semi-automatic
action is as widely loved as it is feared,
for its ability to deliver outstanding
firepower quickly and with one-
handed operation and for potential
reliability problems both real and
imagined.
So its more fun to review semi-auto
shotguns than pump action or break
barrel models, for the simple reason
that theres more that can go wrong
even though todays name brand,
largely gas-operated, thoroughly mod-
ern semi-autos, are almost boringly
reliable.
SCRAPPIN AT THE BOYS CLUB
That thing is powerfully ugly, said
a guy at the skeet range who had a
$2,000 custom-grade over-under shot-
gun draped over his arm. I wouldnt
shoot a dog with it.
Which is exactly the reception I
expected at the skeet range, the home
of clay shooting aficionados enjoying a
gentlemanly pursuit. The black 930
SPX with the polymer forearm and
hatchet-style stock with an integral
pistol grip dangling into space didnt fit
in at all, but one wouldnt expect it to
this 930 SPX is optimized for the
extremely different world of tactical
service as divorced from skeet shoot-
ing as golf is from four-wheeling. Still, I
needed to know how it handled Fed-
erals target loads, and Remingtons
dove loads (which are exceedingly
similar).
The skeet shooters welcomed me
warmly enough, though, and immedi-
ately set about explaining the rules of
the game expecting that anyone
with such a shotgun would know noth-
ing of their refined pursuit. I missed the
first two birds as I got used to the idea
of using sights to track clay disks, then
tucked into a streak that left them sus-
picious Id shot skeet once or twice
The length of pull was perfect right out of the box, though the sights sitting up high
made the drop at the comb too tall for a normal cheek weld.
TW_1402-Mossberg 11/24/13 11:30 PM Page 10
From police departments to the
front lines of modern warfare, within
homes and aboard marine vessels,
shotguns provide mission-adapted short
range defense thats hard to beat.
before.
The 930 SPX makes glorious use of
rifle-style sights, with a bonus: a red
fiber optic front sight that gathers light
(even just that reflected from down-
range when illuminating a scene at
night with a powerful enough tactical
light) extremely well. Its mounted
inside of an elevated, winged structure
meant to evoke (when aligning the
sights) the front sight picture of a mili-
tary rifle so that if you transition
from an M4 / AR15 to the 930 SPX,
your front sight picture looks a lot the
same.
Except for that glorious red (fiber
optic) dot.
The rear sight is a ghost ring unit
from LPA Sights in Italy, and is
windage and elevation adjustable
(with a coin or screwdriver) and eas-
ily removable (with a coin-tightened,
knurled thumb knob). It mounts to a 5-
inch Picatinny rail, to which you could
easily mount any manner of optic.
The red dot glowed brightly and,
with my eyes fuzzing out the ghost ring
rear sight (as they should), I could fol-
low the red dot as intuitively as I fol-
low the bead on my proper skeet gun.
Crucial
Specifications
MOSSBERG
MODEL: 930 SPX
Operation: Semi-automatic, gas operated
Gauge: 12
Capacity: 7 rounds
Barrel Length: 18.5 inches
Choke: Cylinder Bore
Sights: Ghost ring
Stock: Synthetic pistol grip
Finish: Matte black
Weight: 7.75 pounds
Length: 38 inches
MSRP: $883
SPECIAL FEATURES
Full-length synthetic stock with pistol grip,
extended magazine tube, ghost ring aperture
rear sight, wing-protected fiber optic front sight
www.mossberg.com
The rst half of the bolt han-
dles rearward travel unlocks
the bolt; the rest of the trip
manually draws it rearward.
The drop at the comb, combined with
the height of the sights, meant floating
my head about an inch over the stock
relative to the intuitive shotgun cheek
weld Im used to with field guns. I
blame that for the misses that invari-
ably crept into my round of tactical
skeet.
The 930 SPX, though, didnt miss a
beat, and fired every time I pulled the
trigger, cycling the 2 -inch cartridges
(with one ounce of number eight shot)
flawlessly.
TACTICAL TIME
I thanked the gents for their time,
and headed over to the rifle range. The
open sights, smooth bore, and punish-
ing slug recoil (magnified by sitting
down on the bench and leaning into it,
where my body couldnt move with the
recoil impulse as when firing offhand)
did no favors for accuracy, but the 930
The high-vis red ber optic front sight stood out especially in late afternoon shooting, with deep shadows engulng the tar-
gets.
The 18.5-inch barrel and tactical Choate hatchet-style
stock (with integral pistol grip) help make this semi-auto
a breeze to handle in close quarters.
The 5-inch Picatinny rail atop the receiver is
ready to accept optics in addition to, or
instead of, the included ghostring sight.
SPX still managed to turn
in a 5-inch, five-shot group
at 50 yards a congruence of numbers
that made me smile through the pain of
continued slug testing.
Then we switched to Federals three
inch 300 grain copper sabot slugs,
which we managed to put three of into
a nice 4-inch group despite what
was certainly flinch-factor user error at
the bench. Federals three inch, one
ounce Truball Rifled Slug (with its sub-
tle hollow point) came next, and held
three rounds in just under 5 inches. We
fired off of a padded bag, with the
shotgun held tightly against the shoul-
der, using only the iron sights to
mimic real-world user accuracy, rather
than absolutely ideal, laboratory con-
ditions which are also very useful, if
slightly less relevant, and not in the
cards for our range testing that day.
After brutalizing our shoulders at the
rifle range, we hit the combat pits to
run buckshot and all manner of differ-
ent loads through the SPX. Here we
performed speed-loading drills, speed
shooting drills, and practical accuracy
tests with slugs which, off hand at
30 yards, were more tests of the
shooter than the gun.
The 930 SPX blazed through the
rounds without any problems, as we
demand of guns that receive reviews.
Interestingly, we didnt do any prepa-
ration of the shotgun out of the box
we just lifted it out, checked it for
mechanical soundness, and hit the
range. No extra lubrication, no break in
period, no finesse. Just grab-and-go
testing
the sub-optimal way we figure
that most guns are treated in the real
world. The 930 SPX didnt seem to
mind.
The targets, however they didnt
fare to well once we started shooting
buckshot. But thats their lot in life.
DESIGN
The 85370 has a dual gas vent
semi-automatic operating system, with
most of the mechanism hidden inside
the receiver and eleven inch long fore-
arm. The bolt has a lock on top that
cams into a recess in the receiver
when the bolt is all the way forward,
and the reciprocating bars of the lock
mechanism are also forward (only then
is it properly in battery).
Manually cycling the bolt is easy
Massive Energy
Why did Federals Trophy Copper Sabot Slugs hurt so much? And how hard do they hit
downrange?
Gauge Inches Grains Velocity Energy
12 3 300 2,000 2,665 foot-pounds
because those slugs leave the muzzle with well over a ton of kinetic energy behind them!
Thats enough to put the hurt on whatever you shoot, whether animal, attacker, or vehicle.
The LPA Sights ghostring, made in Italy, is easily adjustable for
windage and elevation by using a small coin or screwdriver.
Hiccup-Free Performance With:
Brand Product Length Shot Size Velocity Shot Load
Federal Defense 2 3/4 inches 00 1,145 fps 9 pellets
Federal Target Load 2 3/4 inches 7 1/2 1,145 fps 1 1/8 ounces
Federal Trophy 3 inches Slug 2,000 fps 300 grain
Federal Truball Rifed 3 inches Slug 1,700 fps 1 ounce
Federal Small Game 2 3/4 inches 8 1,300 fps 1 ounce
Nobel Sport Strike Slug 2 3/4 inches Slug 1,480 fps 1 1/8 ounces
Remington Game Load 2 3/4 inches 8 1,290 fps 1 ounce
Remington Nitro Turkey 3 inches 5 1,210 fps 1 7/8 ounces
Royal Buck Buckshot 2 3/4 inches 00 1,345 fps 9 pellets
The Mossberg 930 SPX experienced no failures to feed, extract, or fre, during testing with each of these loads. The velocities and payloads
come from published data and were not independently verifed.
with the oversized tactical bolt han-
dle (and its knurled texture). Drawing it
rearwards the first half inch disen-
gages the locks (which keep the
breach closed during the initial
moments of cartridge ignition, and until
the payload completely passes the gas
ports and the pressure behind them
has a chance to enter the works), and
the rest of the way opens the bolt. Let-
ting the bolt home under its own
spring power closes the bolt with suffi-
cient force to also engage the locks.
Unless you pay exceedingly close
attention during manual operation of
We fed this 930 SPX a mixed diet of eld and target loads, slugs
and buckshot, and were highly impressed with its performance.
The Choate hatchet-shaped pistol grip stock
helped the shotgun be more controllable dur-
ing one-handed operation, and in general.
the bolt, youll never notice any of this.
The bolt release is easily found and
depressed, and though it has a little
wiggle in it, it performed flawlessly
(and the bolt never ran home on an
empty chamber). We caught our thumbs
a few times in the load gate while
pushing cartridges all the way home,
but slightly less so than with other tac-
tical shotguns. The frame-mounted slid-
ing-type safety is right where were
used to finding a shotgun safety, and
the standard red painted dot was visi-
ble while aligning the sights so as to
provide a quick visual reference that,
indeed, the gun is loaded.
Choates pistol grip stock is what dif-
ferentiates this model from the stan-
dard 930 SPX, which comes with a
black synthetic traditional style (and
field length) stock. The 85370 is very
closely related to Mossbergs 930 SPX
Blackwater model, the latter having a
v-style rear sight and unprotected rifle-
style front sight along with the Black-
water Bear Paw logo on the left side of
the receiver. The proper ghostring rear
sight and protected fiber optic front
sight, we feel (not giving a toss about
engraved logos), gives our test model a
slight practical edge over that sibling.
The 85370s design also puts it
squarely in the middle between
extremes, with the base model 930
SPX on one end and the 3-gun-tastic
JM Pro on the other. Knowing that their
930 shotguns are popular with 3-gun
shooters, Mossberg teamed up with
renowned competitive shooter Jerry
Miculek to design a 930 model to his
standards for competition. The result-
ing JM Pro kept the original stock and
action, adding a nine round magazine
tube (two more than the standard 930
SPX) beneath a 24 inch standard vent
rib barrel with Accu-Set chokes, and a
beveled loading gate.
The result is something of a contin-
uum of products that finds the 85370
right in the middle, as a semi-auto 930
outfit with hot tactical accessories (the
ghost ring and fiber optic sights, pistol
grip stock, and tactical-length 18.5
inch barrel over a seven round maga-
zine tube) designed to make it relevant
to police and other tactical operators
while staying user-friendly, simple,
and financially available to civilian
shooters (be they home defenders or
tactical competitors or both).
COMPETITIVE USE
Given its performance in our tests,
we look forward to trying the 930 SPX
in the 2014 3-gun season. Weve seen
that it can handle the loads well use
and we want to see just how it stacks
up head-to-head with much higher-
priced tactical shotguns. Those looking
to keep a semi-auto 12gauge loaded at
Cruiser Ready (seven rounds in the
magazine, and an empty chamber) on
the job or securely stashed at home
might want to take a look at this seri-
ously appealing shotgun. TW
Quick-shouldering the shotgun during speed shooting drills found that it comes up
to bear quickly and intuitively, with just the slightest bit of muzzle-heaviness from
that extended magazine tube.
TW_1402-1911 11/24/13 11:37 PM Page 16
T
he gun serving American law enforcement and military personnel for more than a century can
still be found, in its bewildering array of subtly adapted configurations, in holsters from mili-
tary hotspots to drug raids around the world. Its reputation for power (via the .45 ACP car-
tridge), reliability (by way of its clever design), and ease of use (from its straightforward controls) is
well earned... and extremely well established.
What more can be said about the 1911, the king of 20th-century handguns and a strong contender well into
the 21st century? Not much.
So lets get to the Buyers Guide, which features 33 of the most arresting designs and exciting interpretations
of the 1911 that we could find. Were proud to call out three stellar performers in particular, and hope that
among these options you find the 1911 that is perfect for your duties...or a great start point to explore a given
companys line of subtly different models.
There are a lot of handguns in the world, and most of them owe something to the 1911!
Editor
K
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M
B
E
R
1911
Handguns
A Century of Service
TW_1402-1911 11/24/13 11:37 PM Page 17
l TACTICAL WORLD BUYERS GUIDE l TACTICAL WORLD BUYERS GUIDE l TACTICAL WORLD BUYERS GUIDE l TACTICAL WORLD BUYERS GUIDE l
MSRP: $499
ACTION: SA
CALIBER: .45 ACP
CAPACITY: 7+1
BARREL LENGTH: 5 inches
LENGTH: 8.6 inches
WIDTH: 1.3 inches
HEIGHT: 5.4 inches
WEIGHT: 40 ounces
MSRP: $586
ACTION: SA
CALIBER: .45 ACP
CAPACITY: 7+1
LENGTH: 8.4 inches
WIDTH: 1.25 inches
HEIGHT: 5.5 inches
WEIGHT: 37 ounces
www.regentarms.com
REGENT
R100
FEATURES
Hammer-forged stainless barrel, Hogue rubber grips,
standard features for low price
AMERICAN CLASSIC
CLASSIC II
www.americanclassic1911.com
FEATURES
Novak-style rear combat sight, classic style and ergonomics, full-
length barrel for highest velocities
TW_1402-1911 11/24/13 11:37 PM Page 18
MSRP: $715
ACTION: SA
CALIBER: .45 ACP
CAPACITY: 7+1
LENGTH: 8.5 inches
WIDTH: 1.4 inches
HEIGHT: 5.5 inches
WEIGHT: 39 ounces
MSRP: $786
ACTION: SA
CALIBER: .45 ACP
CAPACITY: 7+1
LENGTH: 8.5 inches
HEIGHT: 5.5 inches
WEIGHT: 35 ounces
FEATURES
Classic military styling, stamped
U.S., identical to WWII-issue
GI 45
SPRINGFIELD
www.springfield-armory.com
MSRP: $667
ACTION: SA
CALIBER: .45 ACP
CAPACITY: 7+1
LENGTH: 8.5 inches
WIDTH: 1.4 inches
HEIGHT: 5.5 inches
WEIGHT: 39 ounces
MIL-SPEC 1911A1
FEATURES
Military-spec pistol, modern metallurgy for
strength, classic style and grace
COLT
01991L
www.coltsmfg.com
FEATURES
GI specification design, modern metallurgy and production
techniques, serial numbers starting where Colts govern-
ment-contract 1911 numbers left off
TW_1402_1911_cx 11/27/13 11:21 PM Page 19
MSRP: $796
ACTION: SA
CALIBER: .45 ACP
CAPACITY: 7+1
LENGTH: 8.4 inches
WIDTH: 1.25 inches
HEIGHT: 5.5 inches
WEIGHT: 37 ounces
MSRP: $799
ACTION: SA
CALIBER: .45 ACP
CAPACITY: 7+1
LENGTH: 8.5 inches
WEIGHT: 32.64 ounces
AMERICAN CLASSIC
TROPHY
www.americanclassic1911.com
FEATURES
Adjustable combat-style sights, match-grade barrel,
designed for supreme accuracy in competitive and defen-
sive use
Featured
1911
Heres a 5-inch barreled 1911 thats
upwards of 7 ounces lighter than similar
sized 1911s... while still boasting the
same features. Rock River Arms uses a
steel chassis inside the polymer lower
frame to retain strength and durability, just
like the modern polymer frame striker
fred pistols. But this poly gun is all 1911,
including the parkerized fnish on the
slide, the combat-style sights (that are
dovetailed in place), commander hammer
and aluminum skeletonized speed trigger.
Itll make all-day carry a bit easier with
the weight reduction, without losing any of
the functionality you require.
ROCK RIVER ARMS, INC 1911 POLY
www.rockriverarms.com
FEATURES
Custom Rock River overmolded grips,
aluminum speed trigger, polymer frame
TW_1402-1911 11/24/13 11:38 PM Page 20
FEATURES
Skeletonized hammer and trigger,
oversized beavertail grip safety, Novak
combat sights
RUGER
SR1911
www.ruger.com
MSRP: $829
ACTION: SA
CALIBER: .45 ACP
CAPACITY: 8+1
LENGTH: 8.7 inches
WIDTH: 1.3 inches
HEIGHT: 5.45 inches
WEIGHT: 39 ounces
www.taurususa.com
TAURUS
PT 1911 AR
MSRP: $870
ACTION: SA
CALIBER: .45 ACP
CAPACITY: 8+1
LENGTH: 8.5 inches
WIDTH: 1.5 inches
WEIGHT: 33.6 ounces
FEATURES
Heinie front sight, lightened hammer and
trigger, fine custom checkering
SIG SAUER
1911 TRADITIONAL
RTSS
FEATURES
Trijicon adjustable night sights, extended
ergonomic controls, attractive style
www.sigsauer.com
MSRP: $949
ACTION: SA
CALIBER: .45 ACP
CAPACITY: 8+1
LENGTH: 8.7 inches
WIDTH: 1.4 inches
HEIGHT: 5.5 inches
WEIGHT: 42 ounces
TW_1402-1911 11/24/13 11:38 PM Page 21
MSRP: $1,032
ACTION: SA
CALIBER: .45 ACP
CAPACITY: 8+1
BARREL LENGTH: 5
inches
LENGTH: 8.5 inches
HEIGHT: 5.5 inches
WEIGHT: 36 ounces
MSRP: $1,033
ACTION: SA
CALIBER: .45 ACP
CAPACITY: 7+1
LENGTH: 9.75 inches
WEIGHT: 44 ounces
FEATURES
Faux-ivory laser-etched grips, custom
Western-influence finish, classic style
www.coltsmfg.com
COLT
COMBAT ELITE
1911
FEATURES
Novak low-mount carry sights, upswept
beavertail grip safety, fine ergonomics
OLYMPIC ARMS
BIG DEUCE
www.olyarms.net
FEATURES
Adjustable sights, custom beavertail grip
safety, extremely long barrel and slide
WESTERNER
MSRP: $1,033.50
ACTION: SA
CALIBER: .45 ACP
CAPACITY: 7+1
LENGTH: 8.75 inches
WIDTH: 1.3 inches
HEIGHT: 5.5 inches
WEIGHT: 39 ounces
TW_1402-1911 11/24/13 11:38 PM Page 22
MSRP: $1,087
ACTION: SA
CALIBER: .45 ACP
CAPACITY: 8+1
LENGTH: 8.5 inches
WEIGHT: 36.5 ounces
Featured 1911
SPRINGFIELD ARMORY
RANGE OFFICER
MSRP: $1,099
ACTION: SA
CALIBER: .45 ACP
CAPACITY: 7+1
LENGTH: 8.5 inches
WIDTH: 1.3 inches
HEIGHT: 5.5 inches
WEIGHT: 40 ounces
The Range Offcer features the classic looks of a custom 1911, with the standard fea-
tures that recommend it well for both tactical competitions and real-world use. IDPA com-
petitors and offcers alike appreciate the beveled magwell (which aids in speedy reloads
and reduces fumbling during insertion) and the high visibility, adjustable sights. The lowered
and fared ejection port aids in reliability, while the 5-inch-long stainless match-grade barrel
provides the kind of accuracy and velocity that professionals demand. The street price is
under a grand, too, which is another huge bonus for those looking to outft themselves with
high-end gear while keeping a budget.
FEATURES
Stainless steel match grade barrel, custom fit
and finish, attractive design
FEATURES
Novak three-dot combat sights, accessory
rail, forged steel frame, National Match barrel
COLT
RAIL GUN XSE
www.coltsmfg.com
TW_1402-1911 11/24/13 11:38 PM Page 23
FEATURES
Extended mag well, Novak Extreme Duty
adjustable sights, extremely high capacity
FEATURES
Match grade barrel and bushing, custom
beavertail grip safety, tactical adjustable sights
PARA USA USA PXT 1911
www.para-usa.com
MSRP: $1,149
ACTION: SA
CALIBER: .45 ACP
CAPACITY: 14+1
LENGTH: 8.5 inches
WIDTH: 1.6 inches
HEIGHT: 5.75 inches
WEIGHT: 40 ounces
BLACK OPS
MSRP: $1,299
ACTION: SA
CALIBER: .45 ACP
CAPACITY: 14+1
LENGTH: 5.75 inches
WEIGHT: 40 ounces
FEATURES
Custom night sights, extremely
high capacity, black Ionbond finish
Featured
1911
Para Ordnance is widely respected for
their high-capacity 1911s and higher-end
quality right from the factory, which are
represented extraordinarily well in the
Black Ops a 15-shot (14+1) double-
stack 1911 that truly flls the hand. With
more shots onboard than any other 1911
with a standard-length magazine, this pis-
tol provides incredible backup. The inte-
gral accessory rail, combat-style sights,
ambidextrous frame-mounted safety, and
uniquely designed grips round out its
more apparent virtues... but you need to
wrap your hand around its grip to fully
appreciate its character.
STI LAWMAN 5.0
www.stiguns.com
MSRP: $1,433
ACTION: SA
CALIBER: 9mm
CAPACITY: 8+1
BARREL LENGTH: 5.11 inches
LENGTH: 8.5 inches
WEIGHT: 38.9 ounces
TW_1402-1911 11/24/13 11:39 PM Page 24
MSRP: $1,476
ACTION: SA
CALIBER: .45 ACP
CAPACITY: 7+1
LENGTH: 8.7 inches
WEIGHT: 39 ounces
FEATURES
Ambidextrous frame-mounted safety,
deluxe sights, accessory rail
KIMBER DESERT WARRIOR
www.kimberamerica.com
FEATURES
Tactical Wedge tritium night
sights, custom desert tan finish,
civilian version of USMC
sidearm
TACTICAL
ENTRY II
MSRP: $1,490
ACTION: SA
CALIBER: .45 ACP
CAPACITY: 7+1
LENGTH: 8.7 inches
WIDTH: 1.3 inches
HEIGHT: 5.5 inches
WEIGHT: 40 ounces
MSRP: $1,476
ACTION: SA
CALIBER: .45 ACP
CAPACITY: 7+1
LENGTH: 8.7 inches
WEIGHT: 39 ounces
WARRIOR
FEATURES
Custom Kimpro II finish,
extended beavertail safety,
ambidextrous thumb safety
TW_1402-1911 11/24/13 11:39 PM Page 25
FEATURES
Adjustable target-style sights, extended ambidextrous
safety, front and rear slide serrations
MSRP: $1,870
ACTION: SA
CALIBER: .45 ACP
CAPACITY: 8+1
BARREL LENGTH: 5
inches
LENGTH: 8.5 inches
WIDTH: 1.5 inches
HEIGHT: 5.5 inches
WEIGHT: 33 ounces
FEATURES
Heinie straight eight
adjustable night sights,
match-grade barrel,
undercut trigger guard
for comfort
MSRP: $1,790
ACTION: SA
CALIBER: .45 ACP
CAPACITY: 7+1
LENGTH: 8.5 inches
WIDTH: 1.4 inches
HEIGHT: 5.5 inches
WEIGHT: 39 ounces
LES BAER
PREMIER II
www.lesbaer.com
DAN WESSON
SPECIALIST
www.cz-usa.com
FEATURES
Tritium night sights, accessory rail, designed with
law enforcement input for duty use
VALOR
MSRP: $2,012
ACTION: SA
CALIBER: .45 ACP
CAPACITY: 8+1
LENGTH: 8.8 inches
WIDTH: 1.5 inches
HEIGHT: 5.5 inches
WEIGHT: 38 ounces
TW_1402-1911 11/24/13 11:39 PM Page 26
FEATURES
Front and rear slide serrations, custom sights,
double stack mag for high capacity
MSRP: $2,109
ACTION: SA
CALIBER: .45 ACP
CAPACITY: 7+1
LENGTH: 8.5 inches
WIDTH: 1.4 inches
HEIGHT: 5.5 inches
WEIGHT: 40 ounces
MSRP: $2,280
ACTION: SA
CALIBER: .45 ACP
CAPACITY: 7+1
LENGTH: 8.5 inches
WIDTH: 1.4 inches
HEIGHT: 5.5 inches
WEIGHT: 39 ounces
STI
TACTICAL
www.stiguns.com
MSRP: $2,045
ACTION: SA
CALIBER: .45 ACP
CAPACITY: 11+1
LENGTH: 8.5 inches
WIDTH: 1.5 inches
WEIGHT: 34 ounces
LES BAER
BOSS 1911
www.lesbaer.com
FEATURES
Chrome frame, high-end combat sights, exquisite fit and finish
PREMIER II SUPER TAC
FEATURES
DuPont custom finish, adjustable night sights, ergonomic controls
TW_1402-1911 11/24/13 11:39 PM Page 27
www.wilsoncombat.com
FEATURES
Similar to FBI contract model, match-grade
components, ergonomic controls
FEATURES
Custom grips and finish, fiber optic front
sight, distinctive milling and checkering
MSRP: $2,795
WEBSITE:
ACTION: SA
CALIBER: .45 ACP
CAPACITY: 7+1
LENGTH: 8 inches
WIDTH: 1.3 inches
HEIGHT: 5.5 inches
WEIGHT: 33 ounces
LES BAER
SRP
www.lesbaer.com
MSRP: $2,590
ACTION: SA
CALIBER: .45 ACP
CAPACITY: 7+1
LENGTH: 8.5 inches
WIDTH: 1.4 inches
HEIGHT: 5.5 inches
WEIGHT: 38 ounces
WILSON COMBAT
X-TAC
MSRP: $2,760
ACTION: SA
CALIBER: .45 ACP
CAPACITY: 8+1
LENGTH: 8.7 inches
WIDTH: 1.3 inches
HEIGHT: 5.6 inches
WEIGHT: 38 ounces
GUNCRAFTER
INDUSTRIES
CCO
www.guncrafterindustries.com
FEATURES
Tritium snag-free night sights, enlarged
beavertail grip safety, custom fit & finish
TW_1402-1911 11/24/13 11:39 PM Page 28
MSRP: $3,185
ACTION: SA
CALIBER: .50 GI
CAPACITY: 7+1
LENGTH: 8.5 inches
WEIGHT: 42.6 ounces
MSRP: $2,895
ACTION: SA
CALIBER: .45 ACP
CAPACITY: 8+1
LENGTH: 8.5 inches
WEIGHT: 40 ounces
MSRP: $2,895
ACTION: SA
CALIBER: Caliber: .45 ACP
CAPACITY: 8+1
WEIGHT: 39 ounces
GUNCRAFTER
AMERICAN
FEATURES
Heine Slant Pro tritium night sights, accessory
rail, match grade stainless steel barrel
www.nighthawkcustom.com
FEATURES
Ambidextrous thumb safety available, Perma Kote
custom finish, Heinie Slant Pro tritium night sights
NIGHTHAWK
GLOBAL
RESPONSE
PISTOL
GUNCRAFTER
50GI M2
FEATURES
Heine Slat Pro tritium night sights, checkered
aluminum grips, accessory rail
TW_1402-1911 11/24/13 11:39 PM Page 29
W
e tried to break Miller Bros Blades M-34
short sword by hacking down a small tree
with it, prying at a stump, and stabbing it
directly into a log. Miller Bros Blades just laughed at us.
BEST USE OF 5160 STEEL
When journeymen blade makers set out to pass their quali-
fications, theyre generally required to submit a blade that can
slice through a free hanging rope, chop through a 2x4 or two,
bend the blade a quarter turn, and shave a part of their body
with the blade at the very end to demonstrate edge retention.
The steel they often reach for is 5160, a .4 percent to .6 per-
cent (or thereabouts) carbon steel with chromium added that
winds up with an insane hardness rat-
ing... and great edge retention, while
still being shatter resistant.
Its not the hardest steel out there,
nor the best for razor-sharpness, nor
the best for weather resistance, but
when youre making a hard-use tool
that you can expect will be abused in
all manner of twisted ways, youd be
hard pressed to find a better material.
This is precisely why Miller Bros
Blades uses 5160 in all of their knives,
swords, and specialty edged weapons.
The three brothers behind the com-
pany have extensive experience with hard living in unsavory
places, and demand a lot from their blades perhaps the
most general-utility tools they can expect to have in the back-
country. Thus they design fixed blade, full-tang knives,
swords, etc, for military operators and backwoodsmen, sher-
iffs deputies and wilderness first responders, that can cut
through rope or hack into a tree or clear a deadfall or pry a
boulder out of a road or...
M-34
This short sword is one of the few such blades weve han-
dled thats the real dea l a 5/16-inch-thick blade tapered to
an edge ground just a little sharper than a well-honed axe
blade makes for a modern sword that
can hack through all sorts of things. Its
quite a relief to hold the real deal: not
some dressed-up fantasy sword or
historic reproduction, but an actual
short sword thats ready to clear trails
and serve as a large general utility
tool, as well as serious defense should
the need arise.
So we cleared some brush with
it, and though the impact vibrations
down through the full-tang handle
were fierce, we were able to clear
vines and small trees with ease. We
Two Tough
Tactical
Blades
Hack
Through
Anything
BY EDITOR
M-34
Tech Specs
Thickness: 5/16 inch
Overall length: 19 1/2 inches
Blade length: 13 inches
Blade width: 11/2 inches
Handle material: G-10 FR-4
Includes: Black Kydex sheath
MSRP: $575
With the proper application of
technique, the M-29 was able to
defeat this small tree and keep
on helping clear brush.
30 v TACTICAL WORLD | SPRING 2014
TW_1402-Blades 11/25/13 12:15 AM Page 30
dont
anticipate
getting into a
swordfight any time soon, but the M-34 has
the mass behind the blade, and the edge
retaining strength, to hold its own when
more is on the line than simple backcountry
cutting work.
The G-10 handle was fit, carved, and fin-
ished by hand (as all Miller Bros Blades
edged tools are), leaving it functional and in
its own peculiar way, beautiful. It proved
non-slip and comfortable.
M-29
The answer to a tactical fixed blade that
can be used for prying, defeating sheet
metal, and punching through hide and bone
if applied to, say, field dressing a deer (as
tested, with success), is the M-29 knife. The
blade is ground to the same angle as the M-
34, which doesnt result in the sharpest of
edges, but does result in extraordinary edge
retention an arguably more
important attribute when deep afield.
The G-10 handle is bolted on with tight-
torqued set screws (as with the M-34), and
is fit, carved, and finished by hand... and
feels simply awesome. The quarter inch
thick blade-back has plenty of room for your
thumb as you guide the blade.
SHARPNESS... OVER TIME
Neither blade passed our cut the free
hanging cotton rope test, but few blades
do. Neither excelled at our paper test, where
the blade is started tip-down at a 45-
degree angle in a sheet of tightly held
paper, and let glide through (and down)
under only its own weight, to test sharpness
along the full length of the blade. But, with
a little force (and a wary assistant) guiding
the blades, they sliced the full length of the
paper with no tearing, which demonstrates
that they are finished and shipped com-
pletely bur-free and ready.
Then we studied the blade edge angle,
and found that theyre more akin
to the fresh edge on a
hatchet than on a
filet knife, and
where the filet
knife is extremely
sharp, of course,
the hatchets
edge will last
through far, far
more abuse over far,
far longer time. When we
went afield with these knives,
they proved perfectly sharp.
After defeating a small tree
each, and being used
extensively on
trail work, we ran the tests again. The result:
almost no loss of sharpness.
Thats the awesome reason theyre
ground as they are, and suggests that theyll
be able to perform their jobs very well
despite extremely harsh use.
Which is exactly what theyre designed
to do for their military, police, and other tac-
tical end-users. TW
Contact
Miller Bros Blades
(419) 680-3841
amiller@millerbrosblades.com
www.millerbrosblades.com
The M-34 and M-29 make a dynamic
pair, with their extremely thick and
useful blades and matching handles.
The M-29 came in a custom-molded Kydex
belt sheath that holds it securely even
upside down.
When youre
making a hard-use
tool that you can
expect will be
abused in all
manner of
twisted ways,
youd be hard
pressed to
find a better
material...
M-29
Tech Specs
Steel: 5160
Thickness: 1/4 inch
Length: 11 1/8 inches
Blade length: 5 3/4 inches
Blade width: 1 3/8 inches
Handle material: Textured G-10 FR-4
Includes: Black Kydex sheath
MSRP: $249
TW_1402-Blades 11/25/13 12:19 AM Page 31
F
rom the patrolmans duty holster, to a MOLLE holster attached to a
plate carrier in Afghanistan, duty issue sidearms tirelessly protect
heroes, whether in combat or on the streets. They come in polymer and
steel frames, with electronic sights or iron ones, with wooden stocks or
rubber grips...in a variety of types and configurations that truly staggers the
mind. We tried to make sense of it all, and found representative models from
the US military to those abroad; from the LAPD to the Maine State Police.
The common factors these pistols share include a dedication to quality and reliable
function, whether the M9 that survived rigorous modern military testing or the 1911
thats served our armed forces for over a century...or the new crop of polymer frame,
striker fired guns you see in holsters at all levels of federal and local law enforcement.
They shoot serious calibers, from 9mm via high capacity magazines to .45 ACP (some-
times with high capacity magazines for that caliber, too!). They are carried, and
trusted, by true professionals...and are worth the money.
Especially if you must trust your life to the gun on your hip.
What do you need? A high-capacity modern handgun that will see lots of tactical
action? A reliable handgun that probably wont ever be used, but needs to be on your
hip daily just in case? A mission-adapted weapon outfitted to overcome specific envi-
ronmental and operational concerns? Youll find it in this Buyers Guide...
...and youll find these guns in use by security personnel and armed forces just
about everywhere you go.
Editor
Duty
Sidearms
Firepower Thats Always by Your Side
TW_1402-SidearmsA 11/26/13 10:10 PM Page 32
S
I
G

S
A
U
E
R
www.comanchepistols.com
www.keltecweapons.com
www.ruger.com
FEATURES
Synthetic grip, stainless slide, decocking lever,
polymer frame to save weight
MSRP: $205
ACTION: DA/SA
CALIBER: .38 SPL
CAPACITY: 6
BARREL LENGTH: 3
LENGTH: 8 inches
WEIGHT: 33 ounces
FEATURES
Extremely inexpensive, adjustable rear sight,
contoured rubber grip
COMANCHE
COMANCHE II-A
KEL-TEC
P-32
MSRP: $318
ACTION: DAO
CALIBER: .32 ACP
CAPACITY: 7+1
LENGTH: 5 inches
WEIGHT: 6.6 ounces
RUGER
P95
MSRP: $399
ACTION: DA/SA
CALIBER: 9mm
CAPACITY: 10+1
LENGTH: 7.25 inches
WIDTH: 1.2 inches
HEIGHT: 5.75 inches
WEIGHT: 27 ounces
FEATURES
Extremely concealable, lifetime warranty,
100 percent made in USA, perfect size
for smaller hands
www.rossiusa.com
www.caracal-usa.com
WWW.0NTARl0KNlFE.L0M
R0NTlN0
TALTlLAL
50RVlVAL
MlLlTARY
MALRETE5
L0TLERY
A0RlL0LT0RAL
ZE EMPlRE 5TREET, P0 B0X 45
FRANKLlNVlLLE, NY 4757
PR: B00 - ZZZ - 5Z55
* 7E - E7E - 55Z7
FAX: B00 - ZBB - ZEB
7E - E7E - 5555
KNlFE5ALE50NTARl0KNlFE.L0M
FEATURES
Pre-A1 military styling, very high capacity,
novel Quick Sight system
FEATURES
Ventilated rib atop barrel, adjustable
sights, supremely comfortable grips
ROSSI
85104
MSRP: $401
ACTION: DA/SA
CALIBER: .38 SPL
CAPACITY: 6
WEIGHT: 32 ounces
CARACAL
CARACAL F
MSRP: $400
ACTION: STR
CALIBER: 9mm
CAPACITY: 18+1
LENGTH: 7 inches
WIDTH: 1.1 inches
HEIGHT: 5.3 inches
WEIGHT: 26 ounces
www.charterfirearms.com
www.smith-wesson.com
MSRP: $419
ACTION: DAO
CALIBER: .380 ACP
CAPACITY: 6+1
LENGTH: 5.25 inches
WEIGHT: 12 ounces
CHARTER
ARMS
BULLDOG
PUG
FEATURES
Bobbed hammer design, snag-free
receiver design, serious defensive caliber
MSRP: $414
ACTION: DAO
CALIBER: .44 SPL
CAPACITY: 5
WEIGHT: 21 ounces
Featured
Sidearm
Not every duty sidearm is a full-size, full-caliber powerhouse
meant for an open carry holster; some are diminutive backup
pieces ideal for those undercover who need discrete, easily hid-
den frepower; others serve as backup guns in ankle holsters,
or when stashed discreetly in your vehicle or workstation.
Thats where the Smith & Wesson Bodyguard handguns come
in, like this .380 ACP 7 shot (6+1) semi-auto. Its companion
piece a .38 Special +P revolver is intriguing as well, but
we dig the design elements of the Bodyguard 380 that are
common to their M&P pistols. The sights, grip, and ergonomics,
are either identical or extremely similar, meaning that if you
carry or train on a full size M&P, transitioning to the Bodyguard
380 will be intuitive and very, very simple... which matters a lot
when you dont have time to spare.
FEATURES
Polymer frame, stainless steel slide,
sights similar to M&P sights, molded
grip for ergonomic fit
SMITH & WESSON
BODYGUARD 380
www.centuryarms.biz
www.ruger.com
www.stoegerindustries.com
MSRP: $469
ACTION: DA/SA
CALIBER: .40 SW
CAPACITY: 11+1
LENGTH: 7 inches
WIDTH: 1.3 inches
WEIGHT: 32 ounces
CANIK55
TP-9
MSRP: $440
ACTION: DA/SA
CALIBER: 9mm
CAPACITY: 18+1
LENGTH: 7.25 inches
WEIGHT: 26.4 ounces
FEATURES
Tritium night sights, chrome-lined barrel, ambidextrous safety/decocker
RUGER
LC9
MSRP: $449
ACTION: DAO
CALIBER: 9mm
CAPACITY: 7+1
LENGTH: 6.0 inches
WIDTH: 0.9 inches
HEIGHT: 4.5 inches
WEIGHT: 17 ounces
FEATURES
Snag-free ergonomic design, low profile adjustable
sights, accessory rail, smooth trigger pull
STOEGER
COUGAR
FEATURES
Ambidextrous safety/decocking lever,
rotating barrel, available as well in
9mm and .45 ACP
FEATURES
Cocked-and-locked-capable, large-capacity of serious
defensive caliber
www.bersa.com
BERETTA
BU9 NANO
FEATURES
Adjustable sights, striker-fired, tiny for a 9mm
www.berettausa.com
MSRP: $475
ACTION: STR
CALIBER: 9mm
CAPACITY: 6+1
LENGTH: 5.6 inches
WIDTH: 0.9 inches
HEIGHT: 4.2 inches
WEIGHT: 20 ounces
CZ
P-07 DUTY
MSRP: $487
ACTION: DA/SA
CALIBER: 9mm
CAPACITY: 16+1
BARREL LENGTH: 3.8
inches
LENGTH: 7.3 inches
WIDTH: 1.5 inches
HEIGHT: 5.1 inches
WEIGHT: 27 ounces
FEATURES
Safety/decocker interchangeable with standard
safety, high capacity, designed to meet police
defensive requirements
www.cz-usa.com
BERSA
THUNDER PRO
MSRP: $495
ACTION: DA/SA
CALIBER: .40 SW
CAPACITY: 13+1
LENGTH: 8 inches
WIDTH: 1.5 inches
HEIGHT: 5.5 inches
WEIGHT: 31 ounces
MSRP: $509
ACTION: DAO
CALIBER: .38 SPL
CAPACITY: 5
LENGTH: 6.6 inches
WEIGHT: 14.3 ounces
FEATURES
Ambidextrous magazine release, extremely
low-bore axis, unique sighting options
CARACAL
CARACAL C
MSRP: $499
ACTION: STR
CALIBER: 9mm
CAPACITY: 15+1
LENGTH: 6.57 inches
WIDTH: 1.1 inches
HEIGHT: 4.8 inches
WEIGHT: 25 ounces
SMITH & WESSON
BODYGUARD 38
FEATURES
Hammerless design, laser sight, integral
metallic sights
www.caracal-usa.com
www.taurususa.com
www.ruger.com
www.taurususa.com
FEATURES
Adjustable sights, accessory rail, extremely
high capacity, ergonomic design
TAURUS
650
MSRP: $523
ACTION: DAO
CALIBER: .357 MAG
CAPACITY: 5
LENGTH: 6.5 inches
WIDTH: 1.4 inches
HEIGHT: 4.3 inches
WEIGHT: 24 ounces
FEATURES
Sturdy steel frame, hammerless design,
rubber recoil-absorbing grips
RUGER
SR40C
MSRP: $529
ACTION: STR
CALIBER: .40 SW
CAPACITY: 15+1
LENGTH: 6.9 inches
WIDTH: 1.3 inches
HEIGHT: 4.6 inches
WEIGHT: 23.4 ounces
FEATURES
Interchangeable backstrap, large capacity
for size, polymer frame to save weight,
ambidextrous mag release
TAURUS
PT 24/7 G2
MSRP: $539
ACTION: STR
CALIBER: 9mm
CAPACITY: 17+1
LENGTH: 7.3 inches
WEIGHT: 28 ounces
TW_1402_SidearmsA_cx 11/27/13 11:24 PM Page 40
www.magnumresearch.com
FEATURES
Adjustable 3-dot sights, low barrel axis,
integral accessory rail, trigger safety
MAGNUM RESEARCH
MR9
MSRP: $559
ACTION: STR
CALIBER: 9mm
CAPACITY: 15+1
LENGTH: 7.1 inches
WIDTH: 1.3 inches
HEIGHT: 5.3 inches
WEIGHT: 28 ounces
FEATURES
Decocking button, interchangeable backstraps,
fully adjustable rear sight, replaceable front sight
STEYR
C9-A1
MSRP: $560
ACTION: DAO
CALIBER: 9mm
CAPACITY: 17+1
BARREL LENGTH: 3.6
inches
LENGTH: 6.7 inches
WEIGHT: 25.6 ounces
www.steyrarms.com www.smith-wesson.com
www.berettausa.com
STEYR
S-A1
MSRP: $560
ACTION: DAO
CALIBER: .40 SW
CAPACITY: 10+1
LENGTH: 6.7 inches
WEIGHT: 24 ounces
FEATURES
Trapezoidal sights, integral trigger safety, integral
accessory rail, natural-point-of-aim ergonomics
SMITH & WESSON
M&P40
MSRP: $569
ACTION: STR
CALIBER: .40 SW
CAPACITY: 15+1
BARREL LENGTH: 4.25
LENGTH: 7.6 inches
WIDTH: 1.2 inches
HEIGHT: 5.5 inches
WEIGHT: 24 ounces
FEATURES
Interchangeable backstraps, large capacity for
caliber, low-profile tactical sights
BERETTA
PX4 STORM
MSRP: $575
ACTION: DA/SA
CALIBER: .40 SW
CAPACITY: 14+1
LENGTH: 7.6 ounces
WIDTH: 1.4 inches
HEIGHT: 5.5 inches
WEIGHT: 28 ounces
FEATURES
Rotating barrel, interchangeable backstraps,
designed for defensive work
Featured Sidearm
The next generation after the enormously popular 90-series handguns (like the 92FS, 96FS, M9, and 90-
Two), the Storm series encompasses this full size, duty-type handgun and several models on down to a sub-
compact. Within a common caliber, their magazines are largely interchangeable (in that larger magazines will
work in smaller models, though the shorter magazines of compact models arent long enough to work in
larger models), and the full-size magazines in the PX4 Storm also work in the Storm Carbine. Interchange-
able backstraps, modern rounded design elements and straightforward ergonomics combine with the
DA/SA operation and easily reached controls to create a very intriguing model.
www.taurususa.com
FEATURES
Interchangeable backstraps, white dot low-profile tactical
sights, designed for duty and defensive carry
TAURUS
4510
MSRP: $587
ACTION: DA/SA
CALIBER: .45 Colt / .410 Shotshell
CAPACITY: 5
LENGTH: 9.5 inches
WEIGHT: 37 ounces
FEATURES
3-inch chambers, integral sights, shoots both .45
Colt cartridges and .410 shotshells interchangeably
SMITH & WESSON
M&P45
MSRP: $599
ACTION: STR
CALIBER: .45 ACP
CAPACITY: 10+1
LENGTH: 7.5 inches
WIDTH: 1.3 inches
HEIGHT: 5.5 inches
WEIGHT: 28 ounces
www.taurususa.com
FEATURES
Powerful design, reinforced frame, shoots 2.5-inch
.410 Shotshells or .45 Colt cartridges interchangeably
SPRINGFIELD
XDS 9
MSRP: $599
ACTION: DAO
CALIBER: 9mm
CAPACITY: 7+1
LENGTH: 6.3 inches
WEIGHT: 22.5 ounces
FEATURES
2-dot rear sight, fiber optic front sight, short reset trigger,
also available in .45 ACP (5+1)
WALTHER PPQ
www.waltherarms.com
MSRP: $599
ACTION: STR
CALIBER: .40 SW
CAPACITY: 11+1
LENGTH: 7.2 inches
WIDTH: 1.3 inches
HEIGHT: 5.3 inches
WEIGHT: 26 ounces
FEATURES
Interchangeable backstraps, ambidextrous & extended slide
release, integral accessory rail
TAURUS
PUBLIC DEFENDER
MSRP: $620
ACTION: DA/SA
CAPACITY: 5
LENGTH: 9 inches
WEIGHT: 28.2 ounces
TW_1402-SidearmsB 11/26/13 10:17 PM Page 44
www.armalite.com
www.glock.com
GLOCK
G22
MSRP: $641
ACTION: STR
CALIBER: .40 SW
CAPACITY: 15+1
LENGTH: 8.0 inches
WIDTH: 1.2 inches
HEIGHT: 5.4 inches
WEIGHT: 23 ounces
FEATURES
White outline rear sight, polymer
frame for light weight, combat trig-
ger guard,, double stack magazine
Featured Sidearm
The handgun trusted by an enormous number of law enforcement
agencies, and legions of civilians, this full size .40 SW handgun is
something of a standard in duty-issue carry. With a 16-round capacity
(15+1), fxed sites with Glocks white rear outline style, extremely light
unloaded weight, steel rails and chassis inside the polymer frame, and
safety built right into the trigger, the Glock is built both tough and
light... and features the kind of universal design and straightforward
operation that make it a clear winner for many departments.
GLOCK
G21SF
MSRP: $637
ACTION: STR
CALIBER: .45 ACP
CAPACITY: 13+1
LENGTH: 8 inches
WIDTH: 1.3 inches
HEIGHT: 5.5 inches
WEIGHT: 26 ounces
FEATURES
White outline rear sight, polymer frame for light
weight, combat trigger guard, double stack magazine
relieved backstrap to fit medium/smaller hands
ARMALITE
AR-24 TACTICAL
CUSTOM
MSRP: $631
ACTION: DA/SA
CALIBER: 9mm
CAPACITY: 13+1
LENGTH: 7.5 inches
WEIGHT: 32 ounces
FEATURES
Adjustable sights, extensive grip checkering,
hammer spur
www.taurususa.com
www.sigsauer.com
www.eaacorp.com
FEATURES
Adjustable rear sight, cocked and locked carry, very
large capacity for caliber, integral accessory rail
MSRP: $641
ACTION: DA/SA
CALIBER: 9mm
CAPACITY: 17+1
LENGTH: 8.5 inches
WIDTH: 1.6 inches
WEIGHT: 34 ounces
FEATURES
Siglite night sights optional, ergonomic style
for its diminutive size, non-slip grips
SIG SAUER
P232
MSRP: $649
ACTION: DA/SA
CALIBER: .380 ACP
CAPACITY: 7+1
LENGTH: 6.6 inches
WIDTH: 1.2 inches
HEIGHT: 4.7 inches
WEIGHT: 19 ounces
FEATURES
Improved capacity (17+1), combat-style trigger guard,
multi-position frame-mounted safety/decocker
TAURUS
M92
SAR ARMS
K2
MSRP: $657
ACTION: DA/SA
CALIBER: .45 ACP
CAPACITY: 14+1
LENGTH: 8.3 inches
WIDTH: 1.3 inches
HEIGHT: 5.7 inches
WEIGHT: 40 ounces
www.waltherarms.com
www.glock.com
FEATURES
Safety/decocker button, ambidextrous mag release built
into trigger guard, three-dot adjustable combat sights
WALTHER
P99
MSRP: $679
ACTION: DA/SA
CALIBER: .40 SW
CAPACITY: 12+1
LENGTH: 7.2 inches
WIDTH: 1.3 inches
HEIGHT: 5.3 inches
WEIGHT: 26 ounces
GLOCK
G17
MSRP: $690
ACTION: STR
CALIBER: 9mm
CAPACITY: 17+1
LENGTH: 8 inches
WIDTH: 1.2 inches
HEIGHT: 5.4 inches
WEIGHT: 22 ounces
FEATURES
White outline rear sight, polymer frame for light weight,
combat trigger guard, double-stack magazine
FEATURES
3-inch chambers, integral sights, shoots both .45 Colt
cartridges and .410 shotshells interchangeably
TAURUS
JUDGE 3
INCH MAG
www.taurususa.com
MSRP: $695
ACTION: DA/SA
CAPACITY: 5
LENGTH: 9.5 inches
WEIGHT: 37 ounces
www.kahr.com www.springfield-armory.com
www.fnherstal.com
FEATURES
Bar-dot-style combat sights, single
stack design for easy concealability,
beneficial sight radius
KAHR ARMS
TP45
MSRP: $697
ACTION: DAO
CALIBER: .45 ACP
CAPACITY: 7+1
LENGTH: 6.6 inches
WIDTH: 1 inch
HEIGHT: 5.3 inches
WEIGHT: 23 ounces
FEATURES
Grip safety, trigger safety, fiber
optic front sight, outstanding
capacity, snag-free rear com-
bat sight
SPRINGFIELD
XD(M) 3.8 9MM
MSRP: $697
ACTION: STR
CALIBER: 9mm
CAPACITY: 19+1
LENGTH: 7 inches
HEIGHT: 5.6 inches
WEIGHT: 28 ounces
FN HERSTAL
FNX 9
MSRP: $699
ACTION: DA/SA
CALIBER: 9mm
CAPACITY: 17+1
BARREL LENGTH: 4 in
LENGTH: 7.4 in
WEIGHT: 22 oz
SPECIAL FEATURES
Stainless steel construction, loaded
chamber indicator
Featured Sidearm
This high-capacity 9mm puts 18 (17+1) rounds in your holster, via nickel-plated steel magazines
with low-friction polymer followers for smooth feeding even during rapid fre. The slide is milled
with front cocking serrations, as many professionals prefer, and the fxed sights are of the three-
dot, combat-style, no-snag variety. The polymer frame helps keep the weight down, and features
interchangeable steel rails to greatly extend your pistols longevity. The easily cocked hammer (for
true DA/SA operation) is somewhat unique among polymer-framed pistols, giving you an interesting
depth of utility for this construction style.
www.cz-usa.com
BERETTA
90-TWO
MSRP: $700
ACTION: DA/SA
CALIBER: .40 SW
CAPACITY: 12+1
FEATURES
Updated 92FS, lighter weight, wraparound mono-grip, accessory rail
www.berettausa.com www.smith-wesson.com
SMITH & WESSON
640
MSRP: $729
ACTION: DAO
CALIBER: .357 MAG
CAPACITY: 5
LENGTH: 6.6 inches
WEIGHT: 23 ounces
FEATURES
Fully shrouded hammer, snag-free design, powerful cartridge
CZ
SP-01 TACTICAL
MSRP: $737
ACTION: DA/SA
CALIBER: .40 SW
CAPACITY: 12+1
LENGTH: 8.15 inches
WEIGHT: 38.4 ounces
FEATURES
Tritium sights, integral accessory rail, fore and
aft slide serrations, combat-style trigger guard
www.berettausa.com
www.chiappafirearms.com
FEATURES
Accepts .410 shotshells, .45 Colt, and .45 ACP,
features integral sights, rifled barrel
FEATURES
Fires from bottom cylinder, concealed hammer,
extremely low-bore axis
BERETTA
96 A1
MSRP: $745
ACTION: DA/SA
CALIBER: .40 SW
CAPACITY: 12+1
LENGTH: 8.5 inches
WIDTH: 1.5 inches
HEIGHT: 5.5 inches
WEIGHT: 34.4 ounces
FEATURES
Accessory rail, safety/decocker, internal recoil buffer
SMITH & WESSON
GOVERNOR
MSRP: $769
ACTION: DA/SA
CAPACITY: 6
LENGTH: 8.5 inches
WIDTH: 1.75 inches
HEIGHT: 5.5 inches
WEIGHT: 30 ounces
CHIAPPA
RHINO 40DS
MSRP: $775
ACTION: DA/SA
CALIBER: .357 MAG
CAPACITY: 6
LENGTH: 8.5 inches
WEIGHT: 30 ounces
www.fnherstal.com
www.kahr.com
FEATURES
Polymer and steel construction, snag-free
sights, easily concealable dimensions
SPECIAL FEATURES
Deep-notch rear sight, accessory rail, interchangeable backstraps
SMITH & WESSON
M&P40 VTAC
MSRP: $779
ACTION: DAO
CALIBER: .40 SW
CAPACITY: 15+1
LENGTH: 7.63 inches
WEIGHT: 24.25 ounces
FEATURES
VTac Warrior sights, ambidextrous controls, integral
accessory rail, multiple color options
FN HERSTAL
FNP 45
MSRP: $795
ACTION: DA/SA
CALIBER: .45 ACP
CAPACITY: 15+1
BARREL LENGTH: 4.5 in
LENGTH: 7.9 in
WEIGHT: 32 oz
KAHR ARMS
P45
MSRP: $805
ACTION: DAO
CALIBER: .45 ACP
CAPACITY: 6+1
LENGTH: 6.07 inches
WIDTH: 1.01 inch
HEIGHT: 4.8 inches
WEIGHT: 21 ounces
www.sig-sauer.com
www.hk-usa.com
FEATURES
Adjustable sights with white outline, orange
insert front sight, comfortable grip
FEATURES
Accessory rail, interchangeable backstraps, easily engaged
controls, scaled-down HK USP design
SMITH
& WESSON
686
MSRP: $829
ACTION: DA/SA
CALIBER: .357 MAG
CAPACITY: 6
LENGTH: 9.6 inches
WEIGHT: 40 ounces
SIG SAUER
P226
MSRP: $975
ACTION: DA/SA
CALIBER: 9mm
CAPACITY: 15+1
LENGTH: 7.7 inches
WIDTH: 1.5 inches
HEIGHT: 5.5 inches
WEIGHT: 34 ounces
FEATURES
Decocking lever, ergonomic controls for one-hand opera-
tion, steel construction, wide range of custom features
MSRP: $998
WEBSITE: Action: DA/SA
CALIBER: 9mm
CAPACITY: 13+1
LENGTH: 6.8 inches
WIDTH: 1.14 inches
HEIGHT: 5 inches
WEIGHT: 23.5 ounces
HECKLER & KOCH
USP COMPACT
www.hk-usa.com
FEATURES
Decocking lever, anti-corrosion coatings on controls,
anchor engraving, SIGLITE night sights
FEATURES
Accessory rail, interchangeable backstraps,
easily engaged controls
SIG SAUER
M11-A1
www.sigsauer.com
MSRP: $1,125
ACTION: DA/SA
CALIBER: 9mm
CAPACITY: 15+1
LENGTH: 7.1 inches
WIDTH: 1.5 inches
HEIGHT: 5.4 inches
WEIGHT: 32 ounces
FEATURES
Siglite night sights, decocker, civilian version
of Navy issue sidearm, steel construction
P226 MK25
MSRP: $1,142
ACTION: DA/SA
CALIBER: 9mm
CAPACITY: 15+1
LENGTH: 7.7 inches
WIDTH: 1.5 inches
HEIGHT: 5.5 inches
WEIGHT: 34 ounces
HECKLER & KOCH
P30
MSRP: $1,023
ACTION: DA/SA
CALIBER: 9mm
CAPACITY: 15+1
LENGTH: 7 inches
WIDTH: 1.4 inches
HEIGHT: 5.4 inches
WEIGHT: 26 ounces
Featured
Sidearm
This tactical pistol is made to be used, and used a lot. It has
front slide serrations for those who value being able to rack the
slide easily from a number of different positions, a short reset
trigger to help with rapid follow up shots, the accessory rail and
combat trigger guard you expect, and particularly interesting
grips that are a great bonus aesthetically (and provide good
traction without biting during extended shooting of +P
ammunition).
www.hk-usa.com
www.sigsauer.com
www.fnherstal.com
SPECIAL FEATURES
Ambidextrous controls, low bore axis, threaded barrel
FEATURES:
Accessory rail, interchangeable backstraps,
easily engaged controls, scaled-down HK
USP design
HECKLER & KOCH
HK 45 COMPACT
MSRP: $1,193
ACTION: DA/SA
CALIBER: .45 ACP
CAPACITY: 10+1
LENGTH: 7.2 inches
WIDTH: 1.4 inches
HEIGHT: 5.6 inches
WEIGHT: 28 ounces
SIG SAUER
P229 EXTREME
MSRP: $1,213
ACTION: DA/SA
CALIBER: 9mm
CAPACITY: 15+1
LENGTH: 7.6 inches
WEIGHT: 32 ounces
FEATURES
Siglite night sights, Hogue G-10 grips,
short-reset trigger, accessory rail
FN HERSTAL
FNX 45 TACTICAL
MSRP: $1,395
ACTION: DA/SA
CALIBER: .45 ACP
CAPACITY: 15+1
BARREL LENGTH: 5.3 in
LENGTH: 7.4 inches
WEIGHT: 34 ounces
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TW_1402_55 11/25/13 9:33 PM Page 55

A modern tactical stock with a serviceable magazine and adapter, no less
really brings this inexpensive shooter up to speed for modern use.
TW_1402-Nagrant 11/25/13 12:23 AM Page 56
R
emember when a day at the range literally meant a
day at the range? Ammo was affordable and you
could sit there and have fun honing your skills.
Well, now the price of ammo has gone up, but even before the
last rush on ammo, shooting wasnt exactly cheap. What if I told
you there is a way to get around the high price of ammo... and still
hone your skills at 200 yards? We have seen a number of battle
rifles get a new lease on life when they become popular with the
public. People used to rebuild Mausers, P17 Enfields and Enfields.
Today, the Mosin is the new guy on the block.
Mosin enthusiasts now have more after-market accessories
available than ever before, making it prime for a rebuild... and a
reinvention into a rifle that might be useful tactically. (Or at least
for fun, tactical-style training.)
So lets look at a couple of Mosin rebuilds I did and what was
involved short of re-barreling. To start with, joining the Mosin club
is cheap since the Nagant runs anywhere from $139 to $200, pro-
viding it isnt a sniper model. After we have selected a rifle, we
then move on to cleaning it up for the rebuild.
SELECTING THE MOSIN
You will want to do some research when selecting a Mosin.
First, keep in mind that the round receivers are the ones people
are making the most aftermarket parts for since they are the easi-
est to work with. Obviously you want to check the bore on any
rifle you buy, but the Finnish models have a reputation for the best
barrels. If you find one and can afford the extra cost, get it. Tula
models have some of the best receivers. There were many Mosins
Tactical
Centenarian
STORY AND PHOTOS BY ABE ELIAS
The Mosin-Nagant Goes Tacti-Cool
made in many factories and the machining
varies from awfully sloppy to pretty clean.
Dont expect todays standards, but then
that is one of the beauties of the Mosin
its a sturdy, serviceable rifle that you dont
have to worry about banging around. There
is a carbine version, too, but they run extra.
For the purpose of this rebuild, a Model
1891/30 is perfect. This model has been in
service since 1891 and was pulled out of
service in 1945, so there have been millions
of these made.
THE CLEAN UP
Before getting started, keep in mind these
guns have been in storage for many years
and the Russian version of Cosmoline can
gum up a rifle something fierce. Start clean-
ing by giving it a good scrub down with
some hot water and Simple Green. I have
also found Shooters Choice Aqua Clean
products to work well. Once you have
cleaned off all the Cosmoline on the outside
then clean the barrel and bore. Some of the
rifles are so gummed up the bores and bar-
rels will actually look dark. To brighten
those back up you can use either polishing
compounds or Nevr-Dull.
For the polishing compounds take a 20-
gauge gun swab and load it up. If you want,
you can insert it into the chamber and spin
it using a drill; by hand will work too. After
cleaning the chamber out you can run some
swabs of Nver Dull down the barrel or just
give the barrel a good cleaning. To use Nver
Dull I simply wrap some cloth around a
small brush and build it up till it fits in the
chamber, then I do the same again with the
barrel. With a shiny bore and barrel you are
ready to go.
Before you start to build you will have to
take a look around at what is available and
what format you want to build. Do you want
your Mosin to be a bench rifle, a tacti-cool
marksman rifle or maybe even a Scout rifle?
DRILLING THE RECEIVER
There are plenty of jigs that will accu-
rately drill and tap a receiver. I normally use
the Weaver drilling and tapping jig. Strip
the action from the stock and set the maga-
zine aside.
A number of companies make scope
mounts for the Mosin: ATI makes an over-
the-receiver mount and Rock Solid Indus-
tries makes both over the receiver and for-
ward scout mount. If you choose Rock
Solids Scout system you will have to disas-
semble the rear iron sight. Rock Solid makes
their mounting holes to the exact same
specs as ATI, so once you have drilled and
tapped for one, you can use either. With the
action stripped and the bolt out, clamp the
barrel in a vise, then line up the scope
mount, using a woodworkers soft-jawed
clamp. You can clamp the scope mount to
the receiver using the flat top of the base
and flat underside of the receiver.
Check to make sure it runs
straight with the barrel when installing the
Scout mount; you might want to install it
straight with the receiver if the barrel is
over clocked. Each company provides full
directions for this.
Once they are clamped into place, mark
the hole placement with a set punch. Both
companies provide a drill and tap; however
you might need to buy a set just for the
handles. When you go to drill, make a point
of re-punching your marks to ensure they
are clear and crisp. Remarking will help
make sure the bit doesnt walk.
Use plenty of cutting fluid when drilling
and tapping. I use Brownells cutting fluid to
keep the chips flowing and prevent the tap
from binding. Once you have drilled and
tapped the first hole, install the scope mount
using one screw and check for alignment
again. With the scope mount in place you
can use the mount as a guide to mark the
A simple, black synthetic stock with a modern bipod already does wonders for the Mosin...and we havent even cleaned up
the insides yet.
What if I told you there is a way to get around
the high price of ammo...
and still hone your skills at 200 yards?
second hole again and then drill. Clean the
chips away using compressed air and
degrease the holes with brake cleaner.
The screws provided will be too long and
have to be ground to size. At this point I
reassembled the rifle and took it to the range
after mounting a scope so I can do a before
and after comparison with the rebuild.
I found it easier to line the scope mounts
up on the next project by first cleaning the
receiver surface up on the slack belt section
of my belt sander using a 220 grit belt. It
removed any of the irregularities from the
machining on the receiver. After sanding
the receiver I used cold blue to blue the
newly exposed metal. I also found it easier
to line the scope mounts up using my laser
bore sight.
STIFFENING THE BARREL
Practically all the 91/30 barrels are close
to 29 inches long. If you want to increase
their accuracy you will want to stiffen the
barrel and the only way to do that is to
shorten it. You can chop it down to any-
where between 22 inches and 24 inches; I
went with 22 inches. I put the bolt back in
and measured with a rod down the barrel to
the bolt face, took that measurement and
subtracted enough to end up with 22
inches.
After I had made my mark I used a hand
hacksaw to make my cut. There are a cou-
ple of ways to help you make a square cut:
one is to use a tube cutter and mark the
barrel, just as if you were going to cut some
copper pipe. Clamp it on and rotate and use
Three
Hot Stocks!
Archangel Manufacturing
10654 S0. Garfeld Ave
South Gate, Ca.
90280
1-800-438-2547
info@promagindustries.com
www.archangelmanufacturing.com
Bluegrass Stock Company
900 BridleWood Park
Campbellsville, Kentucky 42718
United States
Phone:270-789-8206
www.bg-gunstocks.com
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International USA, LLC
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1-800-925-2522
www.atigunstocks.com
Before and after the overhaul: never thought you could wring MOA groups out of a Mosin, did you?
the scored mark of the cutter for a guide.
The second way is to take some tape and
wrap the barrel, making sure the wrap is
even and meets up perfectly. Line your saw
up with the edge of the tape and start cut-
ting. After you cut the barrel you can use a
file to even up the cut and clean up the
edge.
THE CROWN IS KING
We are using the original barrel and cut-
ting it to increase its accuracy by stiffening
it. All the work to stiffen the barrel will be
worthless if we dont have a good crown on
it. I used the Brownells crowning kit, which
can be used by hand or mounted in a power
drill. A well-formed crown allows the gas to
vent evenly from the barrel.
The first part is the 90-degree cutter and
pilot to ensure the face is square. The sec-
ond part is an 11-degree cutter to give the
barrel its crown; you want to only sink the
cutter in about one-third the thickness of
the barrel. To finish off the barrel, take a file
and gently break the sharp edge on the out-
side of the barrel and use the tang of the
file to remove any burrs on the inside lip of
the barrel.
TAKING STOCK
For this article I built three different plat-
forms using three different stocks: ATI,
Archangel, and Bluegrass Gunstock. ATIs
stock is a straightforward Monte Carlo-style
hunting stock, the trimmest of the three. ATI
makes their stock out of a Dupont extreme
temperature glass reinforced polymer and is
basically a straight drop in stock that uses
the Mosins original box magazine. Its very
easy to use and comes with a recoil pad
pre-installed.
This year Archangel came out with a
stock for the Mosin in a tactical bench
shooters format. The stock is made from
carbon fiber reinforced polymer. As for ease
of installation I just dropped the action in
with a couple of minor adjustments. I had to
drill a hole for the forearm sling swivel (it
comes that way) and I had to cut a relief for
the bolt handle since I used the Rock Solid
Industries bolt.
The main feature of the Archangel stock
is that it takes a removable magazine,
which is available in either 5 or 10 rounds.
Due to the interrupter on the Mosin action,
you have to insert the magazines with the
bolt closed, and then give it a good slap to
seat the first round. Initially the magazine
gave me a few feeding problems, but as I
have been using it, it is breaking in...so be
After shortening the barrel, you need to cut (and polish) a new crown. Luckily, there
are tools that make this easy.
While more professional tools are great, all you need at minimum is a hacksaw and
a good vise to cut your barrel to length. (Just leave it long enough to satisfy legal
minimums.)
One stock (and its detachable magazine!) and a little elbow grease can update the Mosin-Nagant at least a hundred years...in
just about one long afternoons work!
The do-it-yourself crown (left) is a denite improvement over the as-issued conguration (right), and should be considered
even if you dont plan to cut the barrel down in length.
prepared to allow a break in period.
Lastly I used the Bluegrass Tactical Stock,
made from maple, and Duracoated it. I
wanted it to be set up for bench shooting,
so I splurged and got some of the extras.
Base price for the Tactical model is only
$98, and you add your features from there.
Only a little fitting work had to be done
with a small chisel and if they Dura coat it
you will have to clean the holes out. Blue-
grass Stocks use the original box magazine
and feature a cross grain pistol grip for
added strength. In the end, personally I
think you get more than your moneys
worth with the Bluegrass stock.
TRIGGERS AND BOLTS
The original trigger leaves much to be
desired since it has a lot of travel and a
heavy pull. Trigger jobs are not something
to be done with no experience, so by all
means take it to a skilled gunsmith; if you
want the best results possible, you can do
what I did and replace your trigger with a
Timney trigger (have a gunsmith do this for
you).
Using a Timney is straightforward and I
always have great results. If you are going
to mount a scope on your Mosin, you are
going to want to bend the bolt. ATI makes a
do it yourself kit which is easy enough to do
with a few simple hand tools, the only thing
a person doesnt normally have is a tap
handle. For the most part it requires: a
hacksaw, bench grinder, hand drill, and
vise. Another route is to get a bent bolt that
has been cut and welded for you by either
Bluegrass or Rock Solid Industries. If you
want to keep all your numbers matching,
you can even ask to send in your bolt sleeve
to get it done. I also bought a firing pin
spring from Socamo.com.
The end results were better than just an
accurate shooting rifle that I could shoot
Get This
Hardware
Converted Bolt and Scope Bases...
Rock Solid Industries
11632 Marshall School Road
Lexington, MO 64067
Phone: (660) 259-2832
Order desk hours: Monday-Friday 8am-
5pm CST
Emailcustomerservice@rocksolidind.com
www.rocksolidind.com/
Firing Pin Spring...
Socamo
www.socamo.com (fring pin spring)
Store yet to open visit forum
Tactical Triggers...
Timney Triggers LLO
2020 W Quail Ave
Phoenix, AZ
85027
1-623-223-1111
www.timneytriggers.com
customerservice@timneyuse.com
The Mosin-Nagant is pretty fun to shoot in its original conguration...but why not bring it into the 21st century?
Do you want your Mosin to be a bench rifle,
a tacti-cool marksman rifle or
maybe even a Scout rifle?
cheaply. My rebuilt Mosin was a rifle that I
had a hand in building, and that I could use
for a number of things from hunting to
plinking. My groupings tightened up and
the Timney trigger made a world of differ-
ence.
As for the stocks, all of them lessened the
effect of the recoil and provided a solid plat-
form so that you wouldnt even guess you
were shooting a Mosin if you didnt already
know.
Shortening the barrel helped tighten the
groups without a huge loss of velocity; how-
ever, the muzzle report increased notice-
ably.
You have to like it when you get a chance
to get in there and get your hands a little
dirty and come out with something you can
have fun with! Most of the tools were tools
anyone would have; and besides the parts
themselves, one stop at Brownells will get
you the rest of the supplies. The rebuilt
Nagant is a great shooter, and when you are
finished, people will be hard-pressed to
guess that it started out as a $139 rifle! TW

Critical
Cleaners
Simple Green
Available at Home Depot
Nevr-Dull
The George Basch Company Inc.
P.O. Box 188
Freeport, New York
11520
1-516-378-8100
info@nevrdull.com
www.nevrdull.com/index.html
A modern tactical stock, aftermarket bolt handle, extended length of modern
Picatinny-style rail...you can add these to your Mosin-Nagant this weekend!
TW_1402-RiflePlatA 11/25/13 9:48 PM Page 64
W
ith patrolmen receiving more SWAT-type training, and increasingly
being called upon to provide first response to active shooters, squad
cars across the country (and in many other parts of the world) are
getting AR-type rifles right there in the cab. Where once a shotgun might ride
between driver and partner, now theres at least as often an AR-type rifle at the
ready...
...and a lot of ammo in the trunk.
Tactical rifles have crossed from the military to civilian law enforcement, including
federal service with federal agencies like the DEA and ICE as well as state highway
patrols and local police departments. Overwhelmingly, they turn to the AR/M16 plat-
form, with its unparalleled ability to accept accessories that can adapt it to virtually any
mission night and thermal scopes extending their use well after dark, long barrels and
large optics optimizing them for designated marksman roles, lights and lasers for close
quarters work inside buildings.
So were proud to bring you this Buyers Guide of models from across the industry,
featuring standard and specialty chamberings and a wide array of configurations. Since
there is yet more to the world of tactical rifles than the AR/M16 platform, weve included
some of the most exciting platforms from the rest of the wide world of modern defense.
All in, youre bound to find exactly what your mission requires...or at least a starting
point to which you can add the mission-adapted accessories required!
Editor
Tactical
Rifles
Primary Weapons for Professi onals
SPECIAL FEATURES
14.5-inch length barrel with pinned YHM
Phantom flash hider, aluminum trigger
guard and mag catch button are hard-
coat anodized
MSRP: $799.95
ACTION: Semi-automatic, blowback
CALIBER: 5.7x28mm
CAPACITY: 20 rounds
SIGHTS: Aperture/post
STOCK: Steel, collapsible
GRIP: Synthetic pistol grip
FINISH: Matte black
The MVP Patrol accepts AR/M16-type magazines,
and provides an extremely accurate bolt-action plat-
form for police sharpshooters, patrol offcers, and
other professionals. The ability to accept those
common magazines make it a natural to pair
with a super compact M4-type frearm, using
the M4 for entry work and the MVP for longer
range work... with the same ammunition and
magazines. The 5.56mm chamber will shoot
.223 rounds as well, and the medium bull bar-
rel helps deliver them with incredible accu-
racy. Many ballistic-compensated scopes
will work perfectly with the MVP, too, if
you wish to swap out the included 3-
9x32mm scope.
DEL-TON DTI ECHO 314/15
www.del-ton.com
MSRP: $775
ACTION: Semi-automatic,
gas operated
CALIBER: 5.56 NATO
CAPACITY: 30 rounds
TWIST: 1:9
STOCK: Composite adjustable
GRIP: A-2 pistol grip
FINISH: Matte black
WEIGHT: 6 pounds
LENGTH: 35 inches
MASTERPIECE ARMS
MPA 570 SST-SBR
www.masterpiecearms.com
SPECIAL FEATURES
Quad rail, side cocking, threaded
barrel is suppressor-ready
MOSSBERG
MVP PATROL
MSRP: $813
ACTION: Bolt
CALIBER: 5.56 NATO
CAPACITY: 30 rounds
TWIST: 1:9
SIGHTS: 3-9x32mm scope
STOCK: Composite fixed
GRIP: Integral
FINISH: Matte blue
WEIGHT: 8 pounds
LENGTH: 35.25 inches
SPECIAL FEATURES
Accepts AR-15 magazines, includes
3-9x32mm scope, medium bull barrel
with 11-degree tapered crown
Featured
Rifle
www.mossberg.com
SPECIAL FEATURES
Forged 7075 T6 aluminum mil-spec upper and lower
receivers, chrome lined or nitride barrel
www.adeqfirearms.com
www.centuryarms.com
ADEQ FIREARMS
PALADIN PATROL RIFLE
MSRP: $840
ACTION: Semi-automatic, direct gas impingement
CALIBER: 5.56 NATO
CAPACITY: 30 rounds
TWIST: 1:7 or 1:8
SIGHTS: Aperture/post, adjustable
STOCK: Composite, collapsible
FINISH: Matte black
WEIGHT: 6.2 pounds
LENGTH: 35.5 inches
CENTURY ARMS
YUGO N-PAP (T6 COLLAPSIBLE STOCK)
SPECIAL FEATURES
T6 collapsible stock, accessory rail built into the receiver
MSRP: $904
ACTION: Semi-automatic, gas piston operated
CALIBER: 7.62x39mm
CAPACITY: 30 rounds
TWIST: 1:10
SIGHTS: Adjustable
STOCK: T6 collapsible stock
GRIP: Black polymer
FINISH: Blued
WEIGHT: 7.8 pounds
LENGTH: 35 inches
SPECIAL FEATURES
Black polymer grips, made in the same factory that
produced top-quality rifles for the former Yugoslavia
SPECIAL FEATURES
16-inch hammer with forged CMV chrome-lined
barrel, phosphated 8620 steel carrier assembly
SPECIAL FEATURES
Side-charging handle, top and bottom rails with side
sections, side-folding collapsible stock
www.centuryarms.com
www.del-ton.com
CENTURY ARMS YUGO N-PAP (POLYMER STOCK)
MSRP: $904.95
CALIBER: 7.62x39mm
CAPACITY: 30 rounds
TWIST: 1:10
SIGHTS: Adjustable
STOCK: Plastic
GRIP: Black polymer
FINISH: Blued
WEIGHT: 8.05 pounds
LENGTH: 36 inches
MSRP: $989
ACTION: Semi-automatic, gas operated
CALIBER: 5.56 NATO
CAPACITY: 30 rounds
TWIST: 1:7
SIGHTS: Troy DOA folding rear sight
STOCK: M4 stock
FINISH: Matte black
WEIGHT: 6.4 pounds
DEL-TON DTI EXTREME DUTY 316
MASTERPIECE ARMS MPAR 556
www.masterpiecearms.com
MSRP: $999
ACTION: Semi-automatic, short stroke piston
CALIBER: 5.56 NATO
CAPACITY: 30 rounds
TWIST: 1:9
SIGHTS: None
STOCK: Side-folding, collapsible
FINISH: Black phosphate
WEIGHT: 7.8 pounds
LENGTH: 35 inches
SPECIAL FEATURES
Choice of LEF-T carry handles or standalone rear
sights, mid-length RRA wraparound half quad
free float handguard with three rail covers
MSRP: $1,079
ACTION: Semi-automatic, gas impingement system
CALIBER: 5.56 NATO
CAPACITY: 30 rounds
TWIST: 1:9
SIGHTS: MBUS flip-up rear, fixed A2 front sight base
STOCK: Magpul MOE six-position
GRIP: Magpul MOE pistol grip
FINISH: Matte black
WEIGHT: 5.2 pounds
LENGTH: 36 inches
ROCK RIVER ARMS
LAR-15H LEF-T OPERATOR
MSRP: $1,050
CALIBER: 5.56 NATO
CAPACITY: 30 rounds
TWIST: 1:9
SIGHTS: RRA stand alone rear sight (shown)
STOCK: Composite, adjustable
GRIP: ERGO SureGrip pistol grip
FINISH: Matte black
WEIGHT: 8 pounds
LENGTH: 37 inches
CORE
MOE M4 RIFLE
www.core15.com
SPECIAL FEATURES
M4 profile chrome-lined barrel, forged
aluminum lower, chrome-lined steel bolt
carrier and bolt carrier key
SPECIAL FEATURES
RRA two-stage trigger, overmolded A2 grip,
forged A4 upper, forged RRA LAR-15 lower, 16-
inch chrome-moly barrel
www.dpmsinc.com
ROCK RIVER ARMS
LAR-15 MID-LENGTH A4
MSRP: $1,090
CALIBER: 5.56 NATO
CAPACITY: 30 rounds
TWIST: 1:9
SIGHTS: None
GRIP: A2 pistol grip
FINISH: Matte black
WEIGHT: 7.1 pounds
LENGTH: 36 inches
Featured
Rifle
Stripped down so you can build it up, the 308 Ora-
cle is an A4-confguration fat top AR-based rife
with direct gas impingement operation and a 16-
inch barrel, chambered for the .308 round. Thats
where this model gets really interesting. Common
magazines for DPMSs .308 rifes hold 4, 10, or 19
rounds of .308 ammunition. The upper receiver and
the top side of the gas block are milled to offer full
lengths of Picatinny rail for mounting accessories
(including fore and aft metallic sights), and the grip,
handguard, and multi-position collapsible stock are
all both perfectly serviceable...and easily swapped
out for your choice of custom aftermarket furniture.
This base model is ready to be worked up into
whatever solution your mission requires.
MSRP: $1,099
CALIBER: 7.62 NATO
CAPACITY: 20 rounds
TWIST: 1:10
FINISH: Matte black
WEIGHT: 8.3 pounds
LENGTH: 32.5 inches
SPECIAL FEATURES
Pardus adjustable stock, GlacierGuard hand-
guard, 16-inch 4140 HBAR chrome-moly barrel
DPMS
308 ORACLE
SPECIAL FEATURES
Chrome-lined barrel with phosphate finish,
detachable carry handle, forward assist
SPECIAL FEATURES
20-inch barrel & straight A2 buttstock for
long range shooting, Magpul MOE forend
and grip, also available with components
in camo pattern
SPECIAL FEATURES
16-inch mid-length HBAR bead-blasted 416 stainless
steel barrel, AAC Blackout flash hider
M400
www.sigsauer.com
www.dpmsinc.com
MSRP: $1,099
ACTION: Semi-automatic, direct gas
impingement
CALIBER: 5.56 NATO
CAPACITY: 30 rounds
TWIST: 1:7
SIGHTS: A3 rear, A2 front
STOCK: Tactical composite
GRIP: Textured pistol grip
FINISH: Matte black
WEIGHT: 6.5 pounds
LENGTH: 39.5 inches
M400 HUNTER
MSRP: $1,099
direct gas impingement
CALIBER: 5.56 NATO
CAPACITY: 10 rounds
TWIST: 1:8
STOCK: Fixed A2 style
FINISH: Matte black
WEIGHT: 7.8 pounds
LENGTH: 38.5 inches
DPMS
RECON
MSRP: $1,129
CALIBER: 5.56 NATO
CAPACITY: 30 rounds
TWIST: 1:9
SIGHTS: Flip-up
STOCK: Composite
FINISH: Matte black
WEIGHT: 7.65 pounds
LENGTH: 37 inches
SIG SAUER
SPECIAL FEATURES
BUIS, bayonet lug, direct gas system
SPECIAL FEATURES
M4 profile chrome-lined barrel, forged aluminum lower,
chrome-lined steel bolt carrier and bolt carrier key
SPECIAL FEATURES
Forged 7075 T6 receivers, 16-inch 4140 HBAR
barrel with AAC suppressor adapter/flash hider
COLT AR6720 CARBINE LIGHTWEIGHT
www.coltsmfg.com
www.core15.com
www.dpmsinc.com
MSRP: $1,136
CALIBER: 5.56 NATO
CAPACITY: 20 rounds
BARREL LENGTH: 16.1 inches, lightweight
TWIST: 1:7
SIGHTS: Front adjustable, rear flip-up/adjustable
STOCK: MOE carbine stock
GRIP: MOE pistol grip
FINISH: Matte black
WEIGHT: 6.2 pounds
LENGTH: 35.5 inches
CORE
TAC M4 RIFLE
MSRP: $1,199
ACTION: Semi-automatic, gas
impingement system
CALIBER: 5.56 NATO
CAPACITY: 30 rounds
TWIST: 1:7
SIGHTS: MBUS flip-up rear, fixed
A2 front sight base
FINISH: Matte black
WEIGHT: 6.2 pounds
LENGTH: 36 inches
DPMS
MOE WARRIOR
SPECIAL FEATURES
RRA Operator A2 stock, Hogue carbine-length free float tube,
16-inch chrome-moly HBAR with Smith Vortex flash hider
SPECIAL FEATURES
Flat Dark Earth Magpul MOE furniture,
bayonet lug and flash hider
SPECIAL FEATURES
16-inch fluted and button rifled 4140
chrome-moly steel barrel, upgraded
stock standard
MSRP: $1,199
CALIBER: 5.56 NATO
CAPACITY: 30 rounds, detachable box
TWIST: 1:9
SIGHTS: Flip-up rear, A2 front
GRIP: Polymer pistol grip
FINISH: Flat dark earth
WEIGHT: 7.35 pounds
ROCK RIVER ARMS LAR-6.8 COYOTE CARBINE
MSRP: $1,200
ACTION: Semi-automatic, direct
gas impingement
CALIBER: 6.8 mm Rem SPC II
CAPACITY: 20 rounds
TWIST: 1:10
SIGHTS: None
STOCK: RRA operator
A2 stock
GRIP: Hogue pistol grip
FINISH: Matte black
WEIGHT: 7 pounds
LENGTH: 36 inches
COLT LE6920MP FDE CARBINE
www.coltsmfg.com
MSRP: $1,229
CALIBER: 5.56 NATO
CAPACITY: 30 rounds
TWIST: 1:7
SIGHTS: Front adjustable, rear flip-up/adjustable
STOCK: Magpul MOE carbine stock
FINISH: Flat Dark Earth /matte black
WEIGHT: 6.9 pounds
LENGTH: 35.5 inches
OLYMPIC ARMS CO.
LIGHTWEIGHT
TACTICAL (FLUTED)
www.olyarms.com
MSRP: $1,240
gas operated
CALIBER: 5.56 NATO
CAPACITY: 30 rounds
TWIST: 1:9
STOCK: ACE FX Skeleton
FINISH: Matte black
WEIGHT: 6.44 pounds
LENGTH: 35.5 inches
MSRP: $1,259
gas operated
CALIBER: 5.56 NATO
CAPACITY: 30 rounds
TWIST: 1:8
SIGHTS: M4 A2 post, folding
Magpul MBUS
STOCK: Magpul MOE
GRIP: Magpul MVG (vertical
grip)/MOE
FINISH: Flat Dark Earth,
}polymer
WEIGHT: 6.54 pounds
LENGTH: 37 inches
MSRP: $1,275
CALIBER: 5.56 NATO (.223 Wylde chamber)
TWIST: 1:8
SIGHTS: Magpul MBUS
STOCK: Magpul MOE adjustable
FINISH: Matte black hard-coat anodized
WEIGHT: 6.9 pounds
LENGTH: 33.4 inches
SPECIAL FEATURES
DPMS Panther Flash Hider, Forged 7075
T6 lower receiver, full-length gas system
SMITH & WESSON M&P15 MOE MID MOE
www.barnesprecision.com www.dpmsinc.com
SPECIAL FEATURES
Chromed gas key and bolt carrier, 7075
T6 aluminum receivers have a hard coat
black anodized finish, flared magwell for
improved magazine insertion
BARNES PRECISION
CQB PATROLMANS
CARBINE MOE
SPECIAL FEATURES
BPM stainless steel match barrel,
12-inch free-float quad rail forend
DPMS
TAC2
MSRP: $1,299
CALIBER: 5.56 NATO
CAPACITY: 30 rounds
TWIST: 1:9
SIGHTS: Flip-up rear, A2 front
STOCK: Magpul ACS
GRIP: Magpul MOE
FINISH: Black
WEIGHT: 8.5 pounds

SPECIAL FEATURES
Forged LAR-8 lower, forged A4 upper
with forward assist, cryogenically
treated 20-inch chrome-moly barrel,
Hogue rubber pistol grip
SPECIAL FEATURES
Cold hammer forged mil-spec 41V45 barrel,
threaded muzzle with flash suppressor,
chrome-plated two-stage piston driven oper-
ating system
SPECIAL FEATURES
Geissele match trigger, Samson free float handguard,
proprietary muzzle brake, Magpul components
ROCK RIVER ARMS
LAR-8 STANDARD A4
www.rockriverarms.com www.ruger.com
www.stagarms.com
MSRP: $1,300
gas impingement
CALIBER: 7.62 NATO
CAPACITY: 20 rounds
TWIST: 1:10
SIGHTS: None
STOCK: A2 buttstock
FINISH: Matte black
WEIGHT: 9 pounds
LENGTH: 42 inches
MSRP: $1,375
gas piston operated
CALIBER: 5.56 NATO
CAPACITY: 30 rounds
(with flash suppressor)
TWIST: 1:9
STOCK: Synthetic collapsible
FINISH: Matte black
WEIGHT: 7.36 pounds
MSRP: $1,459
gas piston
CALIBER: 5.56 NATO
CAPACITY: 30 rounds
TWIST: 1:8
STOCK: Magpul ACS
GRIP: Magpul MOE
FINISH: Anodized
WEIGHT: 7.9 pounds
LENGTH: 36 inches
STAG ARMS
STURM, RUGER & CO.
SR-556E
TW_1402_RiflePlatA_cx 11/27/13 11:29 PM Page 75
MSRP: $1,471
ACTION: Semi-automatic, gas operating system
CALIBER: 300 AAC BLK
CAPACITY: 30 rounds
TWIST: 1:7
GRIP: Composite pistol grip
FINISH: Matte black
WEIGHT: 6.5 pounds
LENGTH: 32.5 inches
SPECIAL FEATURES
16-inch chrome-lined HBAR, RRA Delta muzzle brake,
chromed 7.62x39mm bolt carrier group, RRA LAR-47
lower and A4 upper
MSRP: $1,499
CALIBER: 5.56 NATO
CAPACITY: 30 rounds
TWIST: 1:8
SIGHTS: MBUS flip-up front
and rear sights
FINISH: Matte black
WEIGHT: 5.8 pounds
LENGTH: 36 inches
BUSHMASTER
300 AAC BLACKOUT
www.bushmaster.com
SPECIAL FEATURES
Nitrite coated bore and chamber, AAC
Blackout muzzle brake
MSRP: $1,475
gas impingement
CALIBER: 7.62x39mm
CAPACITY: 30 rounds
TWIST: 1:10
SIGHTS: AR front sight housing
GRIP: RRA Delta pistol grip
FINISH: Matte black
WEIGHT: 7.75 pounds
LENGTH: 36.5 inches
CORE
MOE M4 PISTON RIFLE
www.core15.com
SPECIAL FEATURES
Forged aluminum lower, M4 flattop upper,
dry lube internal finish
ROCK RIVER ARMS
LAR-47 DELTA CARBINE
MSRP: $1,500
gas operated
CALIBER: 5.56 NATO
CAPACITY: 20 rounds
BARREL LENGTH:
16.1 inches
TWIST: 1:7
SIGHTS: Folding front sight
FINISH: Matte black
WEIGHT: 6.8 pounds
LENGTH: 35.5 inches
MSRP: $1,602
CALIBER: 5.56 NATO
CAPACITY: 20 rounds
TWIST: 1:7
SIGHTS: Front and rear flip-up adjustable
FINISH: Matte black
WEIGHT: 7 pounds
LENGTH: 35.5 inches
www.colt.com
SPECIAL FEATURES
Mil-spec parts including
backup iron sight and folding
front sight, patented one-piece
monolithic upper receiver with
mil-spec rail
DANIEL DEFENSE
DDM4V7
www.coltsmfg.com
SPECIAL FEATURES
Direct gas system, chromed bore
COLT
LE6940
ADVANCED
LAW
ENFORCEMENT
CARBINE
MSRP: $1,549
WEBSITE:
CALIBER: 5.56 NATO
TWIST: 1:7
STOCK: Composite tactical
FINISH: Matte black
WEIGHT: 6.4 pounds
LENGTH: 32.5 inches
SPECIAL FEATURES
Modular Float Rail with three
Picatinny rail sections, cold ham-
mer-forged chrome-moly govern-
ment-profile barrel
www.danieldefense.com
COLT
LE6920SOCOM CARBINE
Featured Rifle
Finished with a maritime-grade fnish that protects the receiver from saltwater, high saline humidity, and
other maritime threats to metal, this AR-based rife comes with a lot of goodies right out of the box. The
.223 Wylde chamber is designed to accept .223 REM and 5.56mm ammunition interchangeably with bet-
ter accuracy (and reliability of feeding) than either chamber alone (used with both types of ammunition).
The 16-inch barrel is crowned with an aggressive muzzle brake that is easily replaced with the aftermar-
ket brake of your choice, if you so desire... and the furniture it comes standard with includes Magpuls
multi-position collapsible stock and pistol grip. Each one ships with Magpuls MBus sights. The rife also
comes with the amazing Ultralite Extreme 12 inch Handguard, which features quick detach sling swivel
inserts and a removable bipod stud.
SPECIAL FEATURES
M4 profile stainless steel match-grade barrel,
adjustable gas block with rail
SPECIAL FEATURES
Forged 7075-T6 aluminum M4 upper, lower
receivers, internal dry lube finish, adjustable
gas block with Picatinny rail
CORE
TAC M4
PISTON RIFLE
www.core15.com
www.core15.com
MSRP: $1,639
ACTION: Semi-automatic, gas pis-
ton operated
CALIBER: 5.56 NATO
CAPACITY: 30 rounds
TWIST: 1:8
SIGHTS: MBUS flip-up front and
rear sights
FINISH: Matte black
WEIGHT: 6.4 pounds
LENGTH: 36 inches
BARNES PRECISION
CQB PATROLMANS CARBINE MARITIME
www.barnesprecision.com
MSRP: $1,695
CALIBER: 5.56 NATO (.223 Wylde chamber)
TWIST: 1:8
SIGHTS: Magpul MBUS
STOCK: Magpul adjustable
FINISH: ROBAR NP3 PLUS
WEIGHT: 6.9 pounds
LENGTH: 33.4 inches
SPECIAL FEATURES
All-weather treated with marine-grade
ROBARS NP3 PLUS electro-less nickel
coating on all ferrous metal surfaces
CORE MOE MID-LENGTH PISTON RIFLE
MSRP: $1,699
ACTION: Semi-automatic, gas
piston operated
CALIBER: 5.56 NATO
CAPACITY: 30 rounds
TWIST: 1:8
STOCK: Magpul UBR buttstock
FINISH: Coyote tan
WEIGHT: 6.5 pounds
LENGTH: 38 inches
SPECIAL FEATURES
Troy BattleRail TRX free float forend,
Barrett muzzle brake
SPECIAL FEATURES
Mil-spec upper with indexing marks and M4 feed ramps,
cold hammer-forged chrome-moly M4-profile barrel
SPECIAL FEATURES
Fast-handling 18-inch barrel with proprietary
muzzle stabilizer, military-style aperture/post
iron sights, fiberglass or walnut furniture
ADEQ FIREARMS
VENATOR BATTLE RIFLE
www.adeqfirearms.com
MSRP: $1,700
CALIBER: 7.62 NATO
CAPACITY: 20 rounds
TWIST: 1:10
SIGHTS: Aperture/post, adjustable
STOCK: Composite/collapsible
FINISH: Matte black
WEIGHT: 8 pounds
LENGTH: 37 inches
DANIEL DEFENSE
DDM4V1
www.danieldefense.com
MSRP: $1,799
impingement
CALIBER: 5.56 NATO
TWIST: 1:7
SIGHTS: Fixed rear, front sight housing
FINISH: Matte black
WEIGHT: 7.1 pounds
LENGTH: 32.5 inches
SPRINGFIELD ARMORY
SCOUT SQUAD
MSRP: $1,848
CALIBER: 7.62 NATO
CAPACITY: 10 rounds
TWIST: 1:11
SIGHTS: Aperture rear, post front
STOCK: Composite (walnut available)
GRIP: Integral with buttstock
FINISH: Matte black
WEIGHT: 8.8 pounds
LENGTH: 40.3 inches
SPECIAL FEATURES
Hammer-forged mil-spec barrel with chrome-
lined bore and chamber, improved multi-lug E3
bolt, extractor, and bolt body
SPRINGFIELD ARMORY
M1A SOCOM 16
MSRP: $1,893
CALIBER: 7.62 NATO
CAPACITY: 10 rounds
TWIST: 1:11
SIGHTS: Aperture rear, post front
STOCK: Composite
GRIP: Integral with buttstock
FINISH: Matte black
WEIGHT: 8.8 pounds
SPECIAL FEATURES
16-inch version of the M1A, XS front sight post
with tritium insert, enlarged military aperture
rear sight, proprietary muzzle brake
Featured
Rifle
Military sharpshooters in the Middle East have clamored
for 7.62mm rifes, and many have found the answer
they seek in the M1A SOCOM 16 from Springfeld
Armory. With the .30-caliber rounds massively
increased kinetic energy retention at extended ranges
(compared to 5.56mm projectiles), the M1A SOCOM 16
can score one shot stops with much more reliability
than an M16-based rife. This gas-operate semi-auto
has standard rear aperture and front post metallic
sights, but is ready to accept your choice of high-end
optic. Its base weight of 8.8 pounds recommends it as a
suffciently light rife for even the longest missions,
where you might not want (or be able) to lug a heavier
.338 Lapua around with you. Plus, the gas-oper-
ate semi-auto cycling increases your frepower
greatly over bolt action rifes... while that
caliber elevates your frepower above
and beyond those shooting
5.56mm rounds.
KNIGHTS ARMAMENT CO.
SR-15E3 IWS CARBINE
www.knightarmco.com
MSRP: $1,937
CALIBER: 5.56 NATO
CAPACITY: 30 rounds
TWIST: 1:7
SIGHTS: Flip-up, front and rear
FINISH: Taupe (optional)
WEIGHT: 6.6 pounds
LENGTH: 33 inches
TW_1402-RiflePlatB 11/25/13 9:56 PM Page 80
SPECIAL FEATURES
Mid-length system for lower recoil and bet-
ter accuracy, 4150 CMV steel and Melonite
finish, S&W enhanced flash hider
SPECIAL FEATURES
Quad-rail handguard with rail covers,
folding BattleSights, chrome lined
cold hammer forged mil-spec 41V45
barrel with flash suppressor
SMITH & WESSON M&P15 VTAC II VIKING TACTICS
STURM, RUGER & CO.
www.ruger.com
MSRP: $1,995
gas piston operated
CALIBER: 5.56 NATO
CAPACITY: 30 rounds
(including flash suppressor)
TWIST: 1:9
FINISH: Matte black
WEIGHT: 7.17 pounds
LENGTH: 31 inches
MSRP: $1,995
gas piston operated
CALIBER: 5.56 NATO
CAPACITY: 30 rounds
(with o flash suppressor)
TWIST: 1:9
SIGHTS: Folding backup
FINISH: Matte black
WEIGHT: 7.94 pounds
MSRP: $1,949
ACTION: Semi-automatic gas operated
CALIBER: 5.56 NATO
CAPACITY: 30 rounds, detachable
BARREL LENGTH:
16 inches
TWIST: 1:8
STOCK: VLTOR IMod stock/6 position collapsible
GRIP: VTAC/Troy 13 inch Extreme TRX
Hand Guard
FINISH: Matte black
WEIGHT: 6.28 pounds
SR-556CLA SR-556FB
SPECIAL FEATURES
16.12-inch chrome-lined fluted
barrel with integral flash sup-
pressor, adaptable handguard
with accessory rails, chrome-
plated bolt carrier group
MSRP: $1,999
ACTION: Semi-automatic, gas piston
CALIBER: 5.56 NATO
CAPACITY: 30 rounds
TWIST: 1:7
SIGHTS: Flip-up aperture/post
STOCK: Composite, bullpup
GRIP: Synthetic integrated pistol grip
FINISH: Matte black
WEIGHT: 8.1 pounds
LENGTH: 27.5 inches
IWI
TAVOR SAR 16.5
www.israel-weapon.com
MSRP: $1,999
ACTION: Semi-automatic, gas piston
CALIBER: 5.56 NATO
CAPACITY: 30 rounds
TWIST: 1:7
SIGHTS: Flip-up aperture/post
STOCK: Composite, bullpup
GRIP: Synthetic integrated pistol grip
FINISH: Matte black
WEIGHT: 7.9 pounds
LENGTH: 26 inches
Featured Rifle
We were blown away by IWIs Tavor at SHOT
Show, and have heard great things about its
performance in the feld ever since. The rifes
bullpup design means that the whole rife, com-
plete with standard 16.5-inch-long barrel, is
only 26 inches in total length... and its compact
design means it weighs only 7.9 pounds (before
you start hanging gadgets all over it). It accepts
standard AR/M16 magazines, meaning that you
can use the mags you probably already have,
and can easily scrounge up more just about
anywhere you deploy. The gas-piston operation
also refects the cold-running, clean-cycling
design favored by many high-volume shooters
these days, making the Tavor an all-around
knockout for a modern defensive rife.
SPECIAL FEATURES
Accepts AR/M4 magazines, mid length barrel
in bullpup package, truly military grade
IWI
TAVOR SAR 18
SPECIAL FEATURES
Dramatic bullpup configuration,
accepts AR/M16 magazines,
official rifle of the IDF
SPECIAL FEATURES
Two-position magazine converts rifle from a manually
loaded single shot to a magazine-fed repeater, Safe
Bolt System (SBS) for loaded carry
MSRP: $2,100
ACTION: Select fire, gas operated
CALIBER: 9mm
CAPACITY: 30 rounds
TWIST: 1:10
SIGHTS: Flip-up metallic
STOCK: Collapsible
GRIP: Pistol grip
FINISH: Matte black
WEIGHT: 6.4 pounds
LENGTH: 28.1 inches
MSRP: $2,129
CALIBER: 7.62 NATO
CAPACITY: 20 rounds
BARREL LENGTH: 16.1 inches, heavy
TWIST: 1:12
SIGHTS: Flip-up adjustable
FINISH: Matte black
WEIGHT: 9.4 pounds
LENGTH: 37.5 inches
STEYR
SCOUT
www.steyrarms.com
MSRP: $2,099
ACTION: Bolt action repeater
CALIBER: 7.62 NATO; 5.56 NATO
CAPACITY: 5 rounds
TWIST: 1:12; 1:9
SIGHTS: Flip-up iron sights
STOCK: Flat black polymer, integrated bipod, UIT rail
GRIP: Semi-pistol grip
FINISH: Matte black
WEIGHT: 6.6 pounds
LENGTH: 39.4 inches
SIG SAUER
MPX
www.sigsauer.com
SPECIAL FEATURES:
Internally suppressed, features multi-position collapsi-
ble stock, select fire capable, restricted to law enforce-
ment or military with a civilian model also available
COLT LE901-16S CARBINE
www.coltsmfg.com
SPECIAL FEATURES:
One-piece upper receiver, full-floated barrel
www.steyrarms.com
www.bushmaster.com
MSRP: $2,295
short-stroke gas piston
CALIBER: 5.56 NATO
CAPACITY: 30 rounds
BARREL LENGTH: 18.375
inches with muzzle brake
TWIST: 1:9
STOCK: Synthetic bullpup
GRIP: Integral pistol grip
FINISH: Matte black Mannox
WEIGHT: 8 pounds
SPECIAL FEATURES
Integrated bipod, adjustable
buttplate and cheekpiece,
22.4-inch cold hammer
forged heavy barrel with tar-
get crown muzzle
SPECIAL FEATURES
Melonite-coated barrel, two-position
gas piston system
SPECIAL FEATURES
Bullpup design, flattop upper with 25-slot
Picatinny rail, tool-less
disassembly/reassembly
STEYR
AUG/A3 SA USA
ELITE
MSRP: $2,295
CALIBER: 7.62 NATO
CAPACITY: 5 rounds
TWIST: 1:12
STOCK: Synthetic, adjustable
GRIP: Semi-pistol grip integrated into buttstock
WEIGHT: 9 pounds, 8 ounces
LENGTH: 42.9 inches
BUSHMASTER ACR BASIC FOLDER
MSRP: $2,490
CALIBER: 5.56 NATO
CAPACITY: 30 rounds
TWIST: 1:9
SIGHTS: Flip-up front and rear
STOCK: Polymer folding, adjustable
GRIP: Composite
FINISH: Matte black
WEIGHT: 8.2 pounds
LENGTH: 33 inches
www.knightarmco.com

SPECIAL FEATURES
URX handguard that extends for the full
length of the barrel, hammer-forged
mil-spec barrel with chrome-lined bore
and chamber
SPECIAL FEATURES
URX3.1 13.5-inch rail system, 14.5-inch
dimpled, chrome-lined medium profile
barrel
SR-15E3 IWS SBR CQB
MSRP: $2,500
impingement
CALIBER: 5.56 NATO
CAPACITY: 30 rounds
TWIST: 1:7
FINISH: Matte black
WEIGHT: 6.39 pounds
LENGTH: 28.5 inches
SR-15E3 IWS CARBINE SBR
MSRP: $2,750
CALIBER: 5.56 NATO
CAPACITY: 30 rounds
TWIST: 1:7
FINISH: Matte black
WEIGHT: 6.89 pounds
LENGTH: 31.5 inches
ROCK RIVER ARMS
LAR-15 PRO-SERIES ELITE
MSRP: $2,750
CALIBER: 5.56 NATO
CAPACITY: 30 rounds
TWIST: 1:9
STOCK: Composite,
adjustable
GRIP: ERGO pistol grip
FINISH: Matte black
WEIGHT: 9.3 pounds
LENGTH: 36 inches
SPECIAL FEATURES
Mid-length wraparound quad rail,
EOTech XPS2-0 sight, A.R.M.S.
#40L rear sight, SureFire Foregrip
WeaponLight
www.knightarmco.com www.steyrarms.com
MSRP: $4,125
CALIBER: 7.62 NATO
CAPACITY: 20 rounds
TWIST: 1:11
FINISH: Matte black
WEIGHT: 10.4 pounds
LENGTH: 39.4 inches
MSRP: $4,368
CALIBER: 7.62 NATO
CAPACITY: 20 rounds
TWIST: 1:11
FINISH: Matte black
WEIGHT: 10.2 pounds
SPECIAL FEATURES
Match chamber and 5R cut match chrome-moly barrel,
improved multi-lug E3 bolt, extractor, and bolt body
SPECIAL FEATURES
Special features to enhance
reliability when using a sup-
pressor, 5R cut rifled match
barrel with target crown
SR-25 ER
SR-25 EC
STEYR
ELITE 08
MSRP: $5,999
CALIBER: 7.62 NATO
CAPACITY: 10 rounds, double-stack
detachable box
TWIST: 1:12
STOCK: Hard Eloxal-coated aluminum,
adjustable
GRIP: Polymer pistol grip with inter-
changeable inserts
WEIGHT: 12 pounds, 6 ounces
LENGTH: 46.5 inches, 38.3 inches with
stock folded
SPECIAL FEATURES
Hard Eloxal-coated aluminum receiver, adjustable fold-
ing stock, full-length Picatinny top rail, cold ham-
mer forged heavy barrel or optional stainless
steel barrel

www.knightarmco.com
MSRP: $5,618
CALIBER: 7.62 NATO
CAPACITY: 20 rounds
TWIST: 1:11
FINISH: Matte black
WEIGHT: 10.4 pounds
LENGTH: 39.5 inches
SR-25 ECR
SPECIAL FEATURES
5R cut rifled match barrel with
7.62 QDC flash hider, carbon
cutter bolt carrier, 45-degree
offset sight
For decades a favorite of sportsmen, the .22-250 REM
offers much as a tactical precision rie as well. Capable of
exceptional accuracy, it also generates ultra-high veloci-
ties, making it at shooting but with a low recoil impulse.
TW_1402-250 11/25/13 12:27 AM Page 88
T
hese days, there seems to be no limit to the rifle/cartridge combina-
tions used for tactical precision shooting. And, probably to no ones
surprise, the arguments and controversies as to which one(s) are the
best abound.
Traditionalists tout the .308 WIN (7.62x51mm NATO) with either a 168 grain or
175 grain BTHP as being the ultimate for general-purpose employment, while
because of their superior ballistics and resulting wider mission capability, the innova-
tors prefer the .300 WIN MAG or .338 Lapua.
Without a doubt, however, the .308 WIN is by far the most popular ... and under-
standably so. Its accurate, ranges well, generates moderate recoil, shows good pene-
tration through intermediary obstacles and offers at least acceptable terminal ballis-
tics on living targets. All of these things are true, but what if there is an even better
caliber out there?
UP CLOSE
A close look at the much-touted 168 grain or 175 grain BTHP target bullet paints a
less impressive picture than seen at first blush. Muzzle velocities with those bullets
are in the 2,500-2,600 fps range, which means that in spite of the excellent ballistic
coefficients both bullets possess, the trajectory they produce is anything but flat. In
fact, its detractors often refer to the .308/168 or .308/175 as having the trajectory of
a mortar round.
Penetration, too, against both intermediary obstacles and light vegetation isnt
always satisfactory. Because both bullets are intended for use on paper targets rather
than living organisms, their construction often causes premature fragmentation and
resulting bullet disintegration when intermediary obstacles such as doors, window
glass and automobile bodywork, are struck.
During a recent CT/ASAA Tactical Precision Rifle course, the students were stunned
to discover that from 100 meters, both the .308 with 168 grain and 175 grain BTHPs
were the worst penetrators of light vegetation, doors, window glass and other real-
world mediums. To their surprise, the 7mm REM MAG with 140 grain bullets (at
2,900 fps), .300 WIN MAG with 150 grain bullets (at 3,200 fps) and the venerable
.30-06 with 150 grain bullets (at 3,001 fps), all with boat tail soft point hunting
bullets, out-performed them by a considerable margin.
And even more surprising was the fact that of the cartridges used in the class, the
best penetrator against those mediums proved to be the .243 Ackley with 85-grain
bullets! Generating a whopping 3,550 fps from a 26-inch barrel, it sailed through
every obstacle with relative ease, striking a target placed six feet beyond, point-on,
Surprisingly
Formidable
The .22-250 as a Tactical Precision
Rifle Cartridge
BY CHUCK TAYLOR
TW_1402-250 11/25/13 12:27 AM Page 89
with little or no deflection.
As far as ranging is concerned, the .308
with 168 grain and 175 grain BTHPs both
have ballistic coefficients in the .480 - .505
range, which is excellent. However, it isnt
until the target is more than 600 meters
away that their high ballistic coefficients
begin to show, and by then bullet velocity
has dropped off to the point where the bul-
let wont even scratch off the paint on a
steel target.
This is one of the reasons why the vast
majority of so-called sniping takes place at
ranges well less than 300 meters. The other
is that at ranges beyond 600 meters, more
often than not, the target is either too diffi-
cult to see or wont stand still long enough
for the shot to be made.
TERMINAL BALLISTICS
Terminal ballistics, the real damage a
bullet causes as it passes through the target,
are a criticalif often overlookedissue, too.
Being designed for target shooting, the
168-grain and 175-grain BTHPs are infa-
mous for poor terminal ballistics. So much
so, in fact, that they arent even legal for
deer hunting in most states.
Lest you misunderstand, my purpose in
critiquing the .308 cartridges is not to
deride them or label them as worthless.
Instead its to build a clear perspective of
their actual, versus their perceived, capabili-
ties; no more, no less. Otherwise, objective
analysis and discussion is impossible.
The truth is that the only reason theyre
used as tactical precision rifle loads isand I
heard this directly from a senior instructor at
the U.S. Army Marksmanship Training Unit
because they perform adequately for mili-
tary needs out to 600 meters and generate
the maximum amount of recoil most shoot-
ers can tolerate on a sustained basis.
In short, they arent magical loads by
any stretch of the imagination. Instead,
theyre just two among many other (even
.308 WIN) loads and cartridges, the majority
of which have equal or superior capabilities.
Over the years, these truths have been lost
or ignored and the .308 WIN elevated to its
current grossly over-rated status.
THE .22-250 SOLUTION?
Conversely, the ultra-high velocity .22-
250 REM, though it too utilizes a light-
weight bullet, is exceptionally accurate,
generates virtually no recoil, shoots much
flatter out to 600 meters than most car-
tridges (including the .308 with those
Tactical .22-250 Rifles
You can build a tactical rife from many base models, and these models are available from
the factory in .22-250 to get you on your way!
Savage Axis
Stevens 2
Remington 700 VTR
Remington 700 VTR
Desert Recon
Remington 700 VS
SF II
Remington 7
Predator
Winchester 70 Stealth II
Winchester 70 Featherweight
Winchester 70 Coyote Varmint Suppressor Ready
Winchester 70 Pro Shadow
for the cartridge to perform to its
absolute best potential under the widest
possible variety of tactical conditions,
custom loading is needed.
TW_1402-250 11/25/13 12:27 AM Page 90
168grain and 175 grain projectiles), and
will, with intelligent bullet selection, pene-
trate at least adequately through intermedi-
ary obstacles; and last, but probably most
important, the .22-250 produces excellent
terminal ballistics at all practical ranges.
Like any other high-performance car-
tridge and load, the .22-250 REM needs a
good weapon platform to reach its maximum
potential. Thus, a Remington M700 or Win-
chester M70 action is needed, with a high-
quality, bipod-equipped synthetic stock, 24-
or 26-inch heavy, target crowned, free-
floated and 1-in-9 twist barrel, and prop-
erly-selected telescopic sights, rings, and
base.
I personally prefer scopes from either U.S.
Optics or Leupold, and specifically, ones that
feature high-profile, clearly marked (read
that as user-friendly!) elevation and
windage turrets, with either a mil-dot or
(my preference) duplex reticle. If your mis-
sion requirements include lowlight scenar-
ios, an illuminated reticle is quite helpful.
The scope should then be fitted with a 2-
or 4-inch sunshade to prevent glare, flip-up
objective and ocular lens caps to protect the
lens from water and dust, an anti-cant
device to insure shot-to-shot consistency
and angle indicator to provide precise scope
data for up and downhill shots.
The whole package then must be
mounted on either a standard or Picatinney
rail base, with solid, all-steel rings to insure
absolute rigidity. Aluminum rings and bases
should be avoided, because they flex exces-
sively under field conditions.
Most factory .22-250 REM loads are fine
for unprotected targets in the open. Theyre
quite accurate, penetrate well enough to
reach vital organs and generate excellent
terminal ballistics. However, for the car-
tridge to perform to its absolute best poten-
tial under the widest possible variety of tac-
tical conditions, custom loading is needed.
FIELD-TESTED TACTICAL LOADS
To offset the tendency of light, high
velocity bullets to disintegrate either upon
impact or within a few inches of penetra-
tion, the Barnes 50 grain Triple Shock bullet
is unbeatable. A solid copper JP bullet, it
retains its structural integrity, exhibits
exceptional accuracy, and because of the
A synthetic stock that allows the barrel to be free-oated and bipod are important
from an accuracy standpoint and make the weapon easier to use in the eld as well.
High quality, yet user-friendly, tactical scope suitable for the weapons tactical mis-
sion is a must. Without it, the capabilities of the rie/cartridge become irrelevant.
About Chuck Taylor
The author of well more than 1,000 published magazine articles and four successful
books on weapons & tactics, Chuck is an adjunct professor of police science, court-recog-
nized expert witness and is the frst 4-weapon combat master. A decorated Vietnam Vet-
eran of two combat tours in that confict, he is both Airborne and Ranger qualifed with
additional expertise in SWAT, counter-insurgency and counter-terrorist operations.
Over the years, these truths
have been lost or ignored and the
.308 WIN elevated to its current
grossly over-rated status...
TW_1402-250 11/25/13 12:27 AM Page 91
.22-250s ultra-high velocities, it demon-
strates excellent terminal ballistics. Yet, it
also demonstrates even better penetration
on intermediary obstacles than is generally
associated with the .22-250 cartridge.
Careful load development is also needed
to determine what loads perform best in
your rifle. In my case, one load in particular
distinguished itself in my custom-built 26-
inch barreled Remington M700. Using virgin
Remington cases, Remington #9 primers
and 41.0 grains of Hodgdons H-414 pow-
der, I was able to obtain a whopping 3,770
fps with only a 17 fps extreme spread and
MOA accuracy.
Subsequent use in the field on both mule
and whitetail deer, elk, javelina and coyotes
showed the load to be spectacularly effec-
tive. Though tremendously high velocities
are generated, the solid copper construction
of the Barnes Triple Shock bullet prevented
What About the .223 REM?
Some agencies use the .223 REM, particularly in urban environments, but have had prob-
lems with its poor penetration through intermediary obstacles, particularly window glass.
Some say this is because its light-weight projectile lacks mass, but while thats no doubt
partially true, I opine that there is more to it than thatit also lacks the velocity to make up
for its lack of mass.
ABOVE: The author prefers scopes
with easily adjusted, clearly labeled tur-
rets, such as those on tactical scopes
from Leupold and U.S. Optics.
LEFT: Once your rie package is com-
plete, protect it with a high quality hard-
shell case to prevent damage or loss of
zero/scope calibration data during han-
dling.
TW_1402-250 11/25/13 12:27 AM Page 92
premature bullet upset/fragmentation in the
target, penetrated completely on broadside
shots and exhibited awesome terminal bal-
listics. None of the animals moved more
than a few feet from the spot at which they
were hit, with most collapsing in their
tracks.
Though it will come as a surprise to most
readers, even elk, a species well known for
its shock resistance, were downed with a
single thoracic hit, even at ranges beyond
300 meters. Post-mortem examination of
the animals taken showed that as long as
the shot was placed in the thoracic cavity,
virtual destruction of the organs therein
was achieved.
Several quartering-away shots were also
taken on mule deer, with the bullet impact
point being a foot or so behind the
diaphragm, but the Barnes 50 grainer
punched right on through into the thoracic
cavity. Amazing as it may seem, the bullet
continued onward, exiting in front of the
offside shoulder. On a 200-pound deer that
means that more than three feet of animal
was penetrated! You can imagine the impli-
cations for tactical use when a one-shot
The Likes
.22-250 REM Tactical Precision Rifle Cartridge
Its highly accurate
Generates exceptionally high velocities
Exhibits little recoil
Produces excellent terminal ballistics at all practical ranges
The author shot this ve shot 100-meter group with his Remington M700 heavy-barreled custom rie and Leupold 6-
20x40mm EFR scope with custom-loaded ammunition. The black dot in the center of the target is 1/3 MOA.
With some loads, the .22-250 can produce substantial muzzle ash, so a ash sup-
pressor is also a viable option.
TW_1402-250 11/25/13 12:27 AM Page 93
stop on a bad guy can save an innocent
persons life.
TACTICAL PERFORMANCE
Next, I tried the load on automobile wind-
shields, with a silhouette target placed three
feet beyond. Again, the Barnes 50-grain
Triple Shock penetrated perfectly and struck
the intended aiming point point-on, with
virtually no defection. Even shots taken at
10-degree angles to the left and right pene-
trated perfectly and struck the target point-
on with only minimal deflection.
Another virtue of the .22-250 REM is that
because its recoil impulse is so low, you can
actually see your target through the scope
at the instant of your bullets impact, thus
giving you faster input as to the effective-
ness of your shot. On game or men, when
life itself is on the line, this asset alone is
worth a lot.
ATTRACTIVE PACKAGE
So, to summarize, with proper loads and
a properly conceived weapon platform, the
.22-250 REM can indeed be a formidable
tactical precision rifle cartridge. Its highly
accurate, generates exceptionally high
velocities (thus producing a super-flat tra-
jectory out to 600-meters or so and gener-
ating awesome terminal ballistics), and
exhibits very little recoil.
As such, it offers an attractive package
and is well worth a serious look by anyone.
Based on my own testing on game as well
as on the range, I find it to be a winner.
Check it out; I think youll agree. TW
One Test
Tactical Performance
TESTED
On automobile windshields, with a silhouette target placed three feet beyond.
CARTRIDGE
The Barnes 50-grain Triple Shock penetrated perfectly and struck the intended aiming
point point-on.
ONE MORE VIRTUE
Because its recoil impulse is so low, you can actually see your target through the scope
at the instant of your bullets impact, thus giving you faster input as to the effectiveness
of your shot.
An Anti-Cant Device (ACD) provides
consistency and exact scope settings
for repeatable accuracy.
I was able to
obtain a whopping
3,770 fps with only
a 17 fps extreme
spread and
MOA
accuracy...
TW_1402-250 11/25/13 12:27 AM Page 94
Tactical World
Free Tactical World app
Now
TW_1402_95 11/22/13 4:07 AM Page 95
GX2 Defenses
Awesome New
Self-Healing Target
Shoot
This!
BY EDITOR
G
X
2

D
E
F
E
N
S
E
A range of target shapes,
colors, and congurations,
puts the fun back in target
shooting.
TW_1402-Shoot 11/25/13 12:29 AM Page 96
W
e dont like having to call range cold! and
shut down the whole range every time we want
to change a target, and neither do the shooters
around us. So the idea of self-healing targets that are
moderately interactive, yet pose no ricochet hazard and
dont require replacement every few dozen rounds, is
pretty appealing.
Enter the GX2 Defense targets, and specifically, the bright
yellow silhouette we have in for testing. It has three red dia-
monds on the head, and a red square right over the heart, sur-
rounded by scoring rings. Thats not a configuration weve
encountered before, but...it provides a fun challenge for pistol
shots (mainly targeting the red square) and rifle shots (the three
diamonds, interchangeably, as called for by our spotter) alike.
The target wiggles ever so slightly against the backstop when
hit, and you can see friction burns and grease streaks (if shoot-
ing lead cast bullets) on the entry holes. You can wipe the foul-
ing off to a certain extent... and the hits shrink from the diame-
ter of the bullet back down to just a ragged pinprick.
These targets are a great alternative to steel for shooting
something more interesting, and durable, than paper targets.
They dont clang though GX2 has some hybrid steel-and-
polymer targets that should be out very soon but they do
stand up to several thousand hits, meaning that you can train in
the fundamentals, use them for combat shooting practice, and
save big time over buying paper targets.
We want to offer (shooters) a new shooting experience, says
Gary Hernandez of GX2 Defense. Were not trying to replace
paper or other traditional targets, but we do want to provide
shooters with another option that is a great change of pace, fun
and safe. They offer a Tactical Torso target that is similar to a
USPSA target, but they dont as yet offer a polymer version
of FBI, IDPA, or USPSA standard targets, which would likely help
them sell more.
But what they do offer is an interesting selection of novel col-
ors and styles, including those with the diamonds that are devil-
ishly challenging to hit at 100 yards.
The mounting options for these targets are also interesting, as
they feature two big holes through which you can pass par cord
or rope, mounting posts or nails for hanging them on just about
any manner of backersits about the most universal system we
can imagine for a four to ten pound (depending on configura-
tion) polymer target.
And the biggest advantage: they pass the Grumpy Old Range
Master test at our local range, where if it aint paper, it dont go
downrange. Finally a target thats way more fun than paper,
with no mess or ricochet hazard, that we can use at a strict
range! TW
Do:
n Use this target for tactical training
n Shoot your service handgun at it
n Take it to 100+ yards for rife work
Do Not:
n Shoot it with buckshot
n Shoot it with any wadcutter or
semi-wadcutter rounds
n Try to hang it from an indoor ranges
target-run system

Full metal jacket and lead round nose ammunition
works best for extending the life of your target
avoid wadcutters and hollowpoints, as they cut
material out of the target!
G
X
2

D
E
F
E
N
S
E
Thats not a configuration
weve encountered before, but ...
it provides a fun challenge
Contact
GX2 Defense
909-947-5347
sales@gx2defense.com
www.gx2defense.com
TW_1402-Shoot 11/25/13 12:29 AM Page 97
D
esignated marksmen provide invaluable overwatch security to teams in the
field, whether military units searching a village or a tactical response team
extracting a barricaded suspect.
They observe (and report on) more of the scene than anyone caught up in it can
observe, and they are, by the nature of their jobs, in unique positions to take long-
range shots that fundamentally alter the course of the engagement.
These personnel use a wide range of tools in their jobs, from ghillie suits and
other specialized forms of concealment to mission-adapted optics and specialized
rifles. Half-minute accuracy is a starting point for them, and many of their rifles are
capable of neutralizing a man-sized target beyond 1,000 meters.
These rifles represent the models trusted by military and police sharp shooters
and designated marksmen across America and around the world, with entries from
the top companies in tactical shooting. If youre serious about long-range accuracy,
your next rifle is likely among these entrants or one of the highly specialized deriva-
tives thereof.
Editor
These rifles represent
the models trusted by
military and police
sharp shooters
TW_1402-PrecRifles 11/25/13 12:34 AM Page 98
Tactical
Precision
Rifles
A
I
M
P
O
I
N
T
BARNES
PRECISION MACHINE
TACTICAL MATCH
CARBINE

MSRP: $850
OPERATION: Bolt-action repeater
CALIBER: 5.56 NATO
MAGAZINE TYPE: 5 rounds, hinged floorplate
RATE OF TWIST: 1:9
STOCK: Synthetic adjustable
FINISH: Matte black
WEIGHT: 7.5 pounds
OVERALL LENGTH: 41.6 inches
SPECIAL FEATURES
BPM stainless steel match barrel, .223 Wylde
chamber, Miculek muzzle brake, JARD trigger
system, BPM handguards
MSRP: $1,537
OPERATION: Semi-automatic,
direct gas impingement system
CALIBER: 5.56 NATO (.223
Wylde chamber)
MAGAZINE TYPE:
30 rounds, detachable
BARREL LENGTH:
16 or 18 inches
RATE OF TWIST: 1:8
STOCK: ACE SOCOM adjustable
GRIP: Magpul MIAD pistol grip
FINISH: Matte black
hard-coat anodized
WEIGHT: 7.5 pounds
OVERALL LENGTH:
36 inches
MCMILLAN
CS5 STUBBY
REMINGTON
MODEL 700 SPS TACTICAL BLACKHAWK!
www.remington.com
BARNES PRECISION MACHINE
DESIGNATED MARKSMAN
RIFLE
MSRP:
$1,454
OPERATION:
Semi-automatic,
CALIBER: 5.56 NATO
(.223 Wylde chamber)
MAGAZINE TYPE:
30 rounds, detachable
RATE OF TWIST: 1:8
STOCK: Magpul PRS adjustable
GRIP: Magpul MIAD pistol grip
FINISH: Matte black hard-coat anodized
WEIGHT: 7.9 pounds
SPECIAL FEATURES
BPM enhanced barrel nut,
BPM ultralite handguard,
Miculek muzzle brake, Mid-
length gas tube, BPM low-
profile adjustable stainless
steel gas block
SPECIAL FEATURES
6-position Hogue overmolded stock, integral Knoxx dual recoil-
compensation system, heavy contour barrel, Pillar-bedded
action, X-Mark Pro adjustable trigger
WWW.VIAMEDIC.COM
800-467-0693
HABLAMOS ESPAOL
-l0-pprore4 Me4|cat|oas
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PROPECIA, STAXYN AND MORE MEDICATIONS
BUY THE REAL VIAGRA

MSRP: POR
OPERATION: Bolt action, McMillan T2K action
CALIBER: 7.62 NATO
MAGAZINE TYPE: 10 rounds, detachable
RATE OF TWIST: 1:8
STOCK: Aluminum, adjustable
GRIP: Textured polymer
FINISH: Matte black
WEIGHT: 10.6 pounds
OVERALL LENGTH: 38 inches
MSRP: $2,245
OPERATION: Bolt action
CALIBER: 7.62 NATO
RATE OF TWIST: 1:12
GRIP: Semi-pistol grip buttstock
FINISH: Matte black
WEIGHT: 10 pounds
www.mcmillanusa.com
SPECIAL FEATURES
Forged steel receiver; short magnum action length;
controlled round-feed action with external claw
extractor; blade ejector; integral recoil lug; hammer-
forged, chrome-lined, free-floating 20-inch heavy
fluted barrel; 2-lever Model 70-style trigger, three-
position safety; McMillan A3 fiberglass tactical stock
FN HERSTAL
SPR A1A
www.fnhusa.com
SPECIAL FEATURES
Concealable precision rifle, 0.75 MOA accuracy, highly adjustable
buttstock, Anschutz trigger and includes muzzle brake, suppressor
SPECIAL FEATURES
Melonite-treated 416 stainless steel barrel, AAC flash
adapter. A3 flattop upper, two-stage match trigger,
Magpul PRS adjustable sniper buttstock
SPECIAL FEATURES
0.5 inch, three-shot grouprated, adjustable match-grade
trigger, full-size Mauser claw extractor, extended bolt han-
dle, individually hand-finished
SPECIAL FEATURES
Dual-ported muzzle brake, bullpup action, billet-aluminum
receiver, interchangeable caliber platform
DPMS
NATO REPR
MSRP: $2,589
OPERATION: Semi-automatic, direct gas
impingement
CALIBER: 7.62 NATO
RATE OF TWIST: 1:10
GRIP: Hogue pistol grip
FINISH: Desert tan
WEIGHT: 9.8 pounds
www.dpmsinc.com
KIMBER MODEL 8400 ADVANCED TACTICAL
MSRP: $2,634
CALIBER: .300 Win Mag
MAGAZINE TYPE: 4 rounds, internal
RATE OF TWIST: 1:10
GRIP: Semi-vertical integral
with buttstock
FINISH: KimPro II, matte black
or desert tan camo
WEIGHT: 10 pounds
BLUEGRASS ARMORY
MOONSHINER
www.bluegrassarmory.com
MSRP: $2,995
CALIBER: 7.62 NATO
RATE OF TWIST: 1:10
STOCK: 7075 T-6 aluminum
GRIP: Contoured pistol grip
FINISH: Matte black
WEIGHT: 11 pounds
SPECIAL FEATURES
Thumbhole stock is adjustable, threaded barrel with brake is
available, superior fit and finish, nearly flush-fit magazine,
enlarged bolt knob
SPECIAL FEATURES
Possibly the shortest designated marksman rifle in the
world; Monolithic receiver, modularchassis accommo-
dates many barrels, calibers; engages targets effectively
at 1,000 yards

ACCURACY INTERNATIONAL AE MKIII
www.accuracyinternational.com
MSRP: $3,600+
CALIBER: 7.62 NATO
MAGAZINE TYPE: five-shot
RATE OF TWIST: 1:12
STOCK: Adjustable
GRIP: Thumbhole stock
FINISH: Weather resistant
WEIGHT: 12.1 pounds
www.deserttacticalarms.com
DESERT TACTICAL ARMS
SRS COVERT
MSRP: $4,156
CALIBER: 7.62 NATO
RATE OF TWIST: 1:8
STOCK: Aluminum adjustable
FINISH: Matte black
WEIGHT: 10 pounds
CQB Meets
Sharpshooter Rifle
The words bullpup and tactical precision rife dont normally
belong in the same sentence though the world of designated marks-
men is anything but normal.
With the shift in global conficts continuing toward urban campaigns
and guerrilla warfare, tactics and gear have adapted. You see that clearly
in Desert Tactical Arms SRS Covert, which puts a 16-inch barreled pre-
cision rifewith monolithic upper receiver and 1/2 MOA accuracy
into a package only 26 inches long. Total.
A relatively fast-for-caliber twist rate helps stabilize the projectiles in
the short barrel, which can be outftted with a suppressor or easily
replaced with a full-length barrel (or a barrel of a different caliber)
thanks to their Quick Caliber Conversion feature. Its also available in
.300 WIN Mag and .338 Lapua Magnum (with a 1:9 twist).
SPECIAL FEATURES
Fluted, free-floating barrel is cold hammer
forged; massive three-chamber muzzle
brake; two-lug bolt locks in barrel block, 20-
MOA declination rail; rail mounted to barrel
block to retain zero
SPECIAL FEATURES
Disassembles like an AR, free-floated
barrel, Magpul PRS adjustable stock,
LimbSaver recoil pad, aggressive muz-
zle brake
STEYR HS .50
www.steyrarms.com
MSRP: $5,299
CALIBER: .50 BMG
RATE OF TWIST: 1:15
STOCK: Aluminum
GRIP: A2-style pistol grip
FINISH: Matte black
WEIGHT: 28.5 pounds
BUSHMASTER BA50 CARBINE
www.bushmaster.com
MSRP: $5,519
CALIBER: .50 BMG
RATE OF TWIST: 1:15
FINISH: Matte black
WEIGHT: 27 pounds
SPECIAL FEATURES
Pistol grip contours/angle reduce muscle fatigue, full-receiver-length
accessory rail for optics, bore axis directly in line with stock, adjustable
cheek piece, skeletonized stock
SPECIAL FEATURES
Match-grade, free-floating barrel, 5R rifling designed for 175 gr. M118LR
ammunition, Easily switched between suppressed/unsuppressed fire,
ambidextrous safety selector and controls, adjustable two-stage match
trigger
SPECIAL FEATURES
Smart rifle integrated with Tracking Point scope, built upon
.300 Win Mag Surgeon action, Krieger Palma profile barrel,
muzzle threaded at 5/8-24, electronic shot release system
BARRETT
98B
www.barrett.net
MSRP: $4,849
CALIBER: .338 Lapua
RATE OF TWIST: 1:10
STOCK: Skeletonized aluminum, adjustable cheekpiece
GRIP: Contoured pistol grip
FINISH: Matte black
WEIGHT: 13.5 pounds
KNIGHTS ARMAMENT
M110 SASS
www.knightarmco.com
MSRP: $11,619
CALIBER: 7.62 NATO
MAGAZINE TYPE: 20 rounds,
detachable
RATE OF TWIST: 1:11
FINISH: Flat dark earth
WEIGHT: 16 pounds
OVERALL LENGTH: 46.8
inches
TRACKING POINT
XS3 PGF
www.tracking-point.com
MSRP: $17,500+
CALIBER: .300 Win Mag
MAGAZINE TYPE: 5 rounds
RATE OF TWIST: 1:10 inch
STOCK: McMillan A5
GRIP: Standard
FINISH: Weatherproof
WEIGHT: 16.4 pounds
SWAT Capable Training
for Everyday Cops
Students who successfully complete the non-traditional program leave
with college credits, course certicates, and are basic special operations
capable, certied to performas a basic operator with a unit if so desired.
TW_1402-swat 11/25/13 12:39 AM Page 106
F
or police officers, proper training is a
matter of life or death.
But even when practiced regularly, police
responses and tactics often dont measure up to the
needs of the situations confronted.
However, if regular officers may be responsible
for resolving a critical incident involving intelli-
gence gathering, surveillance, covert or dynamic
entry, hostage rescue, fugitive apprehension, pro-
tective operations, barricaded subject, the servicing
of dangerous person warrants, etc., why are many
not trained for these tasks? Some of the reasons
may be old-school thinking, inadequate leadership
and supervision, and budget considerations.
Is there a need for all officers to be trained in
special operations beyond patrol response? The
answer is yes.
HISTORY
In the late 1990s, crimes by aggressive and vio-
lent criminals with the ability to wreak havoc and
create massive casualties were on the rise. Before
these active shooter crimes in America began
climbing, the local law enforcement doctrine for
protracted, tactical, critical incidents was Contain,
Control, Communicate, and Call SWAT. Contain-
ment worked if the situation was not evolving and
the suspects actions were confined. Police priori-
ties were: victims, innocent bystanders, law
enforcement personnel, and suspects.
The philosophy of Contain, Control, Communi-
cate, and Call SWAT didnt work during the
Columbine High School massacre (1999), nor during
the North Hollywood shootout between two heav-
ily-armed, armored bank robbers, and officers of
the Los Angeles Police Department. It also didnt
work in the schoolyard shootings at Pearl (MS),
Paducah (KY), and Jonesborough (AR), where
females were prime targets.
BY MARK PRINCE, JIM WEISS AND MICKEY DAVIS
The philosophy of
Contain, Control, Communicate,
and Call SWAT
didnt work in regard to the
Columbine High School massacre...
TW_1402-swat 11/25/13 12:39 AM Page 107
TERRORIST ACTIVITY
Have actual terrorists ever massacred stu-
dents and teachers in a school? Yes. In the
Maalot massacre, 22 Israeli high school stu-
dents were killed by three Palestinian ter-
rorist organization members who had assas-
sinated others on their way to the school. In
Russia, there was the terrorist attack on a
school in Beslan in which over 380 people
died.
All of these critical incidents emphasized
the failure of old-style police response, local
law enforcement-developed training, and
the educational programs that addressed
them.
Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT)
teams evolved in some police agencies in
response to civil unrest as seen in mass
protests, burning of areas of cities, and the
targeting of law enforcement officers and
others, including off-duty military personnel
at airports. Police tactical training in crowd
and riot control increased within some juris-
dictions, as well as firearms skills and quali-
fications, and control tactics.
Training topics should include police
intelligence, tness, individual and
small team tactics and techniques, and
special topics such as breaching, des-
ignated precision marksman, etc.
Proper stacking, along with weapon discipline, is of the utmost importance...and needs to be taught to every SWAT-capable
responder.
TW_1402-swat 11/25/13 12:40 AM Page 108
However, what also followed were many
restrictive policies, rules, and regulations,
that 1) were often discouraging to the police
patrolling the streets, and 2) perhaps made
it difficult for a police officer trying to be
effective against crime to make it through a
day without violating some regulation or
policy.
A CHANGE FOR FIRST RESPONDERS
But could the levels of training for every-
day street cops be further addressed?
Military special operations lessons were
looked at and often borrowed from. Exam-
ples include building and room-clearing tac-
tics, the use of flash bangs, tactically going
up stairs, perimeter control, and so forth.
Combat-armed military units in the Free
World have their forms of special opera-
tions: SAS (Great Britain), SEAL (U.S. Navy),
Green Berets, (U.S. Army), etc.
Law enforcement special operations units
followed. These included GSG 9 (Germany),
Cobra (Austria), and SWAT (USA).
Then everyday police officers and trainers
adapted selected ways of doing business
from the various SWAT teams and military
forces. Changes were made to the gear and
weaponry used by street cops. A few years
ago as a general rule, rifles were only
assigned to SWAT. This is no longer true,
and many police and sheriffs departments
equip uniform patrol units with tactical rifles
or carbines. Commonly, revolvers were
replaced by pistols. Less-lethal devices like
TASER, and such other accouterments like
ballistics vests and gun-retention holsters,
became common issue.
SWAT and revised police training pro-
grams had their effect as more bad guys
were successfully dealt with. These
included active shooters, hostage takers,
wanted criminals, drug dealers, and barri-
cade suspects. In addition, fewer law
enforcement officers were being killed in
line of duty.
Courses cover counter terrorism and intelligence, physical security, protective operations, and tactical crisis resolution.
These Factors Transformed
Police Tactics:
n 9/11 terrorist attack
n Al-Qaeda declared war on USA, 1996 and 1998
n Army Major Nidal Malik Hasans Fort Hood shooting rampage
n Rogue ex-LAPD cop whose murderous shooting rampage terrorized
all of Southern California
n Boston Marathon deadly terror bombings
n 1.4 million acting gang members in 33,000 gangs who were responsible
for 48 percent of violent crime (FBI)
n 19,981 law enforcement offcers killed in line of duty between 1791 and April 2013,
(National Law Enforcement Offcers Memorial Fund)
n Failure of the executive branches of government to enforce or very selectively
enforce laws
n Illegal immigration and its drain on resources
n Illegal drugs and their drain on resources
TW_1402-swat 11/25/13 12:40 AM Page 109
First responding police officers developed
revised approaches, with variations, when
responding to the sound of gunfire. When
addressing an active shooter situation, law
enforcements response became to first neu-
tralize the threat, and then evacuate victims
and innocent bystanders. Simply put, active
shooter situations were elevated to mur-
ders-in-progress.
In addition, SWAT trainers passed their
lessons on to police first responders,
emphasizing deadly force decision-making.
These lessons included how to make a tacti-
cal approach, noise disciple, being methodi-
cal, setting up perimeters, identifying the
threat if it is active, getting through doors,
and clearing buildings and rooms. In the
case of active shooters, the police response
had to be immediate, a lesson learned from
the Columbine High School shooting/mas-
sacre.
Does this mean that special operations
units like SWAT units are no longer neces-
sary? Not at all. However, in the Clearwater,
Florida, Police Departments experience, the
tactical training techniques and upgraded
weapon issues that regular uniform patrol
officers received meant that they were able
to handle more situations themselves with-
out calling out the SWAT team.
This is where we are today.
ALL LAW ENFORCEMENT
SPEC OPS CAPABLE
Since Sept. 11, 2001, the world has
changed. As a result, law enforcement in
America has needed to change as well. For
a variety of reasons, this transition has been
neither smooth nor fast. One reason for this,
which the government administration most
often voices, is the cost. The cost to retool
Societal, Political and Media
Pressures on Police
n Political pressures protecting law enforcement offcer against political reprisals
for doing their jobs
n Court-enforced quota hiring
n Changes in hiring standards hiring of applicants with drug abuse backgrounds
and criminal convictions
n Shifting cultural values
n Active use by citizens of cellphone cameras and video cameras wherever they
observe police making an arrest or using defensive and control tactics
n Harsh adjudication by an unsympathetic media
n Aggressiveness on the part of many lawyers in fling lawsuits against police offcers
n Politically popular community policing, which caused further rifts within the law
enforcement community
n The corruption involved in President Clintons 100,000 Cops program
Each and every ofcer should be equipped with intellectual, legal, and kit support for special operations duties in the eld.
TW_1402-swat 11/25/13 12:40 AM Page 110
an agency is very expensive. This includes
new selection criteria, new standards, new
training, new deployment of resources and
manpower, and new equipment.
However, the timeline of violence is short
in a terrorist or active threat incident. Rapid
recognition and assessment, coupled with a
swift response plan and fast action, are nec-
essary to resolve such an event positively.
This requires a new type of law enforce-
ment agency and a new type of officer.
SWAT CANT DO IT ALONE
The term SWAT has been used since the
late 1960s in America. The idea of a few
officers in an agency specially equipped and
trained to handle long and protracted criti-
cal incidents such as the Texas Tower inci-
dent, or the Munich Massacre in 1972, as
well as the increase in violent crimes,
proved to be somewhat effective.
However, most SWAT teams today are
part time. A dedicated, full-time unit will be
composed of full-time personnel performing
SWAT ONLY tasks. In an organizational
structure such as current American law
enforcement, this is rare. Each state may
only have a couple of dedicated SWAT
teams. Also, some part-time SWAT teams
are multi-jurisdictional, and are comprised
of several law enforcement agencies in a
geographic area.
Surprisingly, some law enforcement
training organizations may not have any
SWAT capability, nor do they have an offi-
cial response plan established with a
nearby SWAT team to provide one.
Because of the above issues (and a few
others), and the ever-evolving crime picture
in America coupled with the current time-
line of violence, SWAT is no longer as effec-
tive as it once was.
THE SOLUTION: A CASE STUDY
To address many of these shortcomings, a
new model must be developed, embraced,
and executed to increase the capabilities of
the law enforcement community in the U.S.
The development of special operations
capable officers in our communities is now a
reality. This concept, although very original,
is doable.
An effective, efficient, and cost-saving
way to create, develop, and field the next
generation of counterterrorism cops is to
partner with a college, specifically a techni-
cal college that can develop state-of-the-art
training in this area. For years technical col-
Weapon discipline and tactical procedures become imperative when working as a
team in close quarters. They are learned skills!
SWAT teams
evolved in some
police agencies in
response to civil
unrest as seen in
mass protests,
burning of areas of
cities, and the
targeting of law
enforcement
officers...
TW_1402-swat 11/25/13 12:40 AM Page 111
leges and some community colleges have
been where many police academies certi-
fied by the state have existed.
One such college that has developed
courses in special operations programming
is Central Ohio Technical College (COTC) in
Newark, Ohio. One of six technical colleges
in Ohio, COTC redesigned its Law Enforce-
ment Technology degree in 2006. It insti-
tuted a Special Operations option that could
be selected by students once they success-
fully completed the 600-hour-plus, state-
certified police academy. If they selected
Spec Ops, they began 240 hours of real
counterterrorism training that included
many nationally recognized certificate pro-
grams.
Recently, COTC morphed again, and now
makes it mandatory for all law enforcement
technology students to complete a hybrid of
advanced patrol topics and special opera-
tions courses to address the needs of today.
The college is able to offer a multitude of
special operations courses and programs at
agencies requests.
Graduates from this Law Enforcement
Technology program have been hired by
many local community police agencies.
Some graduates serve in SWAT-type units,
others are patrol officers, and still others
conduct joint operations with federal agen-
cies, providing highly specialized functions
such as high-threat dignitary protection.
These officer teams provide special opera-
tions services when the need arises.
Special operations training at this partic-
Every ofcer who may be tasked with solving a critical incident needs to be
equipped with the right intellectual and physical resources...meaning reliable gear
and fresh, relevant training!
Tactical rie training should cover marksmanship as well as team maneuvers, mechanical failures drills, and weapon transi-
tioning drills.
TW_1402-swat 11/25/13 12:40 AM Page 112
ular college has been so significant that a
handful of its graduates have gone into the
special operations community of the U.S.
military.
THE FUTURE
Law Enforcement Special Operations
Capable certification for all police officers in
America should be made mandatory by state
training certification commissions. If it is
instituted at the basic academy level, all
academies will have to comply. Once these
graduates are hired by agencies and
become officers, then those agencies will
utilize their resources. Whether it is a single
officer in a small town, or a shift made up of
LESOC officers in a city or county, the
agencys capabilities to resolve a critical
incident successfully will increase dramati-
cally.
Most communities would be appalled at
the lack of preparation and protection their
police can currently provide for an active
shooter type threat. Sadly, many communi-
ties have witnessed such a shortcoming in
recent years.
The old-but-true adage of lead, follow,
or get out of the way is very appropriate for
the mission of resolving such an issue. Com-
missioners, chiefs, sheriffs, and officers must
embrace todays reality, and see law
enforcement special operations capable offi-
cers as the future. If the police cannot pro-
tect us, then who will? TW
About the Authors
Mark Allen Prince is a professor of Law Enforcement Technology/Special Operations at
Central Ohio Technical College. He is a former USDOE SRT operator and in addition has
spent 18 years in local law enforcement special operations and training.
Jim Weiss is a former school-trained combat engineer light infantryman,a former regular
Army school-trained Army military policeman, former State of FloridaInvestigator, and a
retired police lieutenant from the Brook Park (OH) Police Department.
Mickey (Michele) Davis is an award-winning, Florida-based writer and author. She is the
wife of a Vietnam War veteran Army offcer.
This is basic SWAT School, hosted by the Pinellas County Sheriffs Ofce.
Deputies, police ofcers, and military police from a number of agencies attended.
Special
operations training
at this particular
college has been so
significant that a
handful of its
graduates have
gone into the
special operations
community
of the
U.S. military...
TW_1402-swat 11/25/13 12:40 AM Page 113
Tactical
Shotguns
TW_1402-Shotguns 11/25/13 12:43 AM Page 114
I
t is probably the most dynamic and adaptable firearm on
the battlefield.
From breaching doors and shattering locks with powdered
dust rounds to shredding adversaries with buckshot to
defeating vehicles with high-velocity slugs it is the com-
bat shotgun. Its not right for every occasion, but where it
excels, nothing can touch it.
These shotguns represent the top brands in military and
police models, some interesting options outside the main-
stream, and many of the tried-and-true arms that have
proven themselves in warfare and police work for decades.
Editor
F
N
-
H
E
R
S
T
A
L
MSRP: $509
OPERATION: Semi-automatic, recoil operated
GAUGE: 12
CAPACITY: 4 rounds
SIGHTS: Blade front
STOCK: Synthetic pistol grip
FINISH: Matte black
WEIGHT: 6.5 pounds
SAR / EAA
PUMP ACTION SPECIAL PURPOSE
STOEGER
DOUBLE DEFENSE
SIDE-BY-SIDE
www.stoegerindustries.com
MSRP: $499
OPERATION: Break action
GAUGE: 12
CAPACITY: 2
SIGHTS: Fiber optic front
STOCK: Hardwood
FINISH: Matte black
WEIGHT: 6.5 pounds
LENGTH: 36.5 inches
SPECIAL FEATURES
Ported barrels, inherently straightforward operation,
top rail for optics, additional rail for accessories
M2000
DEFENSE
SPECIAL FEATURES
Integral pistol grip, Inertia Driven operating system
is simple and reliable, generous recoil pad
SPECIAL FEATURES
Made by a Turkish military small arms manufacturer, polymer stock with com-
fortable pistol grip, ghost ring sights, Picatinny receiver rail
SPECIAL FEATURES
Two-shot magazine extension with barrel clamp and
Picatinny rails, ported and extend tactical Rem Choke,
HiViz fiber optic sight
SPECIAL FEATURES
Seven-position adjustable stock,
recoil reduction system, extended
magazine
SPECIAL FEATURES
Marinecote finish combats corrosion, adjustable
tactical stock, sling swivels, traditional bead sight
www.eaacorp.com
MSRP: $369
OPERATION: Pump action
GAUGE: 12
CAPACITY: 5 rounds
SIGHTS: Ghost ring
STOCK: Polymer w/pistol grip
FINISH: Matte black
WEIGHT: 5.75 pounds
LENGTH: 38.9 inches
REMINGTON
887 NITRO MAG TACTICAL
www.remington.com
MSRP: $524
GAUGE: 12
CAPACITY: 6 rounds
SIGHTS: HiViz
STOCK: Synthetic
FINISH: Matte black
WEIGHT: 6.8 pounds
LENGTH: 39 inches
870 EXPRESS TACTICAL BLACKHAWK! SPEC OPS II
MSRP: $638
GAUGE: 12
CAPACITY: 6 rounds
SIGHTS: Bead
STOCK: Composite pistol grip
FINISH: Matte black
WEIGHT: 7 pounds
LENGTH: Adjustable
MOSSBERG 500 TACTICAL
www.mossberg.com
MSRP: $705
GAUGE: 12
CAPACITY: 5 rounds
SIGHTS: Bead
STOCK: Synthetic adjustable
FINISH: Marinecote
WEIGHT: 6.75 pounds
LENGTH: 38.5 inches
MSRP: $766
GAUGE: 12
CAPACITY: 8 rounds
SIGHTS: Ghost ring aperture
STOCK: Aluminum adjustable
FINISH: Parkerized
WEIGHT: 7.5 pounds
LENGTH: 41 inches
SPECIAL FEATURES
Full length synthetic stock with pistol grip, extended
magazine tube, ghost ring aperture rear sight, wing-
protected fiber optic front sight

MOSSBERG
590A1 ADJUSTABLE
www.mossberg.com
www.remington.com
SPECIAL FEATURES
20-inch heavy-walled barrel, six-position aluminum stock, A2
style pistol grip, ghost ring aperture rear sight
930 SPX
MSRP: $848
OPERATION: Semi-automatic, gas operated
GAUGE: 12
CAPACITY: 7 rounds
SIGHTS: Ghost ring
FINISH: Matte black
WEIGHT: 7.75 pounds
LENGTH: 38 inches
REMINGTON
1100 TAC 4
SPECIAL FEATURES
Reduced felt recoil, 22-inch barrel, 4-round mag extension
for eight rounds total, receiver drilled and tapped for scope
MSRP: $1,015
GAUGE: 12
CAPACITY: 8 rounds
SIGHTS: HiViz
STOCK: Synthetic
FINISH: Matte black
WEIGHT: 7.75 pounds
LENGTH: 42.5 inches
SPECIAL FEATURES
Concealable, Zytel pistol grip stock, upper
Picatinny rail, lower accessory rail
MSRP: $1,399
gas operated
GAUGE: 12
CAPACITY: 8 rounds
SIGHTS: HiViz
STOCK: Synthetic with
over-molded grips
FINISH: Matte black
WEIGHT: 7.75 pounds
LENGTH: 43.9 inches
www.remington.com
KEL-TEC
KSG TACTICAL
www.keltecweapons.com
MSRP: $1,197
GAUGE: 12
CAPACITY: 10 rounds, multiple tubes
SIGHTS: NA
STOCK: Zytel pistol grip
FINISH: Matte black
WEIGHT: 6.2 pounds
LENGTH: 21.4 inches
NFA RESTRICTED: LE/Military/
Government Agencies
SPECIAL FEATURES
Versa Maxbased autoloader, oversized
bolt release button, Picatinny rail on
receiver, forward barrel-clamp side rails
REMINGTON
VERSA MAX
TACTICAL
MSRP: $1,589
OPERATION: Semi-automatic or pump action
GAUGE: 12
CAPACITY: 5 rounds
SIGHTS: Ghost ring
FINISH: Matte black
WEIGHT: 7.2 pounds
LENGTH: 45.6 inches
SPECIAL FEATURES
NP3 finish is impervious to the elements, it features a fully adjustable ghost
ring rear sight, the front sight adjusts for windage, extended magazine tube
M3 CONVERTIBLE
This thoroughly modern shotgun from Benelli USA, which
makes combat-ready shotguns for the US Marine Corps, features
an intriguing hybrid action: its both a semi-auto and a pump.
Should you transition to rounds beyond the operating pres-
sure range of the gas-powered semi-auto action, as when
switching to lower-powered less-lethal rounds or fares, you
can easily transition the M3 into pump action.
Need the fastest frepower possible with one-hand opera-
tion? Switch back to semi-auto and empty the fve round maga-
zine tube in a heartbeat. Either way, the integral sights keep you
on target and the integral sling attachment points are ready for
your choice of tactical sling.
www.benelliusa.com
SPECIAL FEATURES
Converts from semi-auto to pump action, military-style fixed blade front
sight with adjustable ghost ring rear sight
M4 H2O TELESCOPING STOCK
SPECIAL FEATURES
Hard-chromed bore, active valve gas
operation, three-inch chamber,
extended magazine tube
www.fnhusa.com
FNH USA
SLP TACTICAL
MSRP: $1,413
gas operated
GAUGE: 12
CAPACITY: 8 rounds
SIGHTS: High profile, adjustable rear
STOCK: Synthetic with pistol grip
FINISH: Matte black
WEIGHT: 7.4 pounds
LENGTH: 39 inches
MSRP: $2,399
GAUGE: 12
CAPACITY: 7 rounds
SIGHTS: Ghost ring
FINISH: NP3 metal, matte black furniture
WEIGHT: 7.8 pounds
LENGTH: 40 inches
BENELLI
Featured
Shotgun
*Allow 6-8 weeks for delivery of rst issue. Outside US, add $26 postage per year and prepay in US funds only.
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TW_1402_121 11/25/13 9:29 PM Page 121
L
aserLytes new Kryptonyte Center Mass CM-15
Laser with its expanding circle of green laser
dots that mimics a typical 12-gauge shotguns pat-
tern downrange certainly will be kryptonite for any
bad guys who try to break into your home or workplace.
ONE OF A KIND
According to the LaserLyte engineers, the unique design of
the CM-15 laser was born out of necessity. Historically, there
was no way to present a laser downrange to simulate the typi-
cal 12-gauge, smooth-bore shotgun pattern using a standard
single-beam laser. The engineers suspected that designing a
laser that telegraphed the rough shot dispersal area along
with providing service as a laser aiming device would be
wildly popular.
Seems they were right.
Incorporating a unique refractive lens system with a 1.7-
degree divergence angle is the secret to creating the lasers
expanding circle of hi-vis laser dots downrange. This allows
the CM-15 to serve for both precision (as with slugs) and area
shooting (as with shot). It accomplishes this via shining a single
center targeting green dot that is surrounded in a 360-degree
circle by eight outer boundary green dots. The closer your tar-
get you get, the tighter the circular dot pattern appears (just as
your shot pattern will be tighter). The farther the target is
downrange, the more the laser dot pattern opens up to
approximate where your pellets, BBs, or buckshot will likely
strike the intended target.
Like the typical smooth-bore or cylinder-bore shotgun barrel
that will expand your shot grouping approximately one inch for
every yard you are downrange, the CM-15s eight-dot outer
ring opens up in a similar pattern, affording the operator excel-
lent situational awareness and the knowledge of where the
shotshell pellets are likely to strike. If you are using rifled slugs
instead of a BB or buckshot load, no
problem: Simply focus on the lasers
center green dot and ignore the outer
circle. As long as your point of aim and
point of impact are in sync, the slug
will go exactly where the center green
dot indicates.
The green laser, which aids in day-
light visibility, gives the user the
The New
Shotgun Laser
BY CAPT. JOHN N. RAGUSO
PHOTOS BY LASERLYTE
The 9-Dot Kryptonyte Put to the Test!
The green cir-
cle telegraphs the outer
limits of your shot
pattern...and it spreads apace your
shot patterns spread from contact range and
all the way downrange.
Inside Scoop!
The cool beneft of that eight-dot outer circle, when using the CM-15 on a handgun or
rife, is how easy it makes fnding your laser dot downrange... and up close, where all
nine dots are clustered closely together, it makes something of one giant laser dot thats
absolutely impossible not to see immediately!
TW_1402-Laserlyte 11/25/13 12:49 AM Page 122
advantage of a wide field of view while
using both eyes for seeing more of the tar-
get area and instant aiming when a target
is acquired. The user-friendly, military-
styled laser features clear laser engraved
markings, will run for approximately 6 hours
of normal use with its CR123 lithium bat-
tery, and is operated via a recessed three-
way activation selector that can be set to
off, constant on, and momentary on. A
remote switch is included in the package
that features a 10-inch copper braided cord
with a 2 inch long momentary membrane
pressure switch that can be taped to a pistol
grip, forend, on the stock, or any convenient
spot on your weapon thats within reach.
The LaserLyte CM-15 will attach to your
weapon via any mil-spec standard Picatinny
rail. If your shotgun doesnt have one, not to
worry it is a perfect match for LaserLytes
proven Tri-Rail mount, which can friction-fit
onto your shotguns barrel or magazine tube
(which is available for $25 to $30 at a vari-
ety of the usual internet outlets). I have used
the Tri-Rail mount in the past on a number
of my Mossberg 590 shotguns, and it is a
simple add-on that attaches quickly, doesnt
mar the metal finish, and works flawlessly.
NOT JUST FOR SHOTGUNS
Although the CM-15s expanding circle
dots green laser pattern is ideal for using on
a 12 gauge smooth bore shotgun, you can
easily expand this Kryptonyte Center Mass
Lasers mission operations specialty by
using it on your favorite pistol caliber car-
bine, AR-15, AK, rifle, handgun, or what-
ever. So long as that weapon has a standard
Picatinny-style rail, youre in business.
If you are looking to use it on a single
projectile weapon, simply ignore the lasers
outer rings and focus on the center aiming
dot.
Although the CM-15s 5mw green laser is
theoretically visible under ideal conditions
for up to 1 mile, from a tactical/practical
standpoint I had no trouble picking up the
bright green dots at ranges up to 75 yards
away during
broad daylight
and significantly
further downrange during the
low light hours of dawn and dusk,
both on cloudy days and at night.
Once mounted on your weapon, you
can adjust the lasers beam for both
windage and elevation. Built from aircraft
grade 6061 aluminum, made in the USA
and backed by a three-year warranty, this
military-style laser unit can be used on the
heaviest hitting 12-gauge shotguns on the
market without a hiccup! TW
LaserLyte
CM-15
Compatible Firearms: Any with a
Picatinny rail 3 or longer
Power Output: Class IIIA, 5mw
Programmable: Constant On, Momentary
On, Off
Batteries: 1 x CR-123
Battery Life: 6 hours (normal usage)
Weight: 5.4 ounces
Material: Aircraft Grade 6061 aluminum
Length: 3 inches
Width: 2.43 inches
Height: 1.37 inches
MSRP: $313.95
www.laserlyte.com
The laser circle is easily seen in many
different tactical environments, and
under many different lighting condi-
tions.
C
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J
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The CM-15s 8 dot outer ring
opens up in a similar pattern,
affording the operator...the knowledge
of where the shotshell pellets
are likely to strike.
The unit is low-prole
enough to mount to most
top Picatinny rails while
still permitting the unim-
peded use of optics.
TW_1402-Laserlyte 11/25/13 1:44 AM Page 123
E
xtreme Beam makes flashlights for profession-
als and demanding end-users, with the expec-
tation that their gear is going up mountains and
down ravines and possibly for an unexpected swim...
and needs to come out shining on the other side.
MULTI-MODE HANDHELD SPOTLIGHT
The XT8-M is one of Extreme Beams pocket-sized offer-
ings designed to compete well in the pocket spotlight race
thats swept up so many high-end tactical light manufactur-
ers. To this end, it puts out 290 lumens of blinding light
sufficient to knock out the ability of anyone (or animal) to
see in low-light for quite a while, and plenty powerful to
illuminate a 30-
yard wide shooting
lane at around 50
yards (as tested)
with a white-hot
center like a Broad-
way spotlight.
Thats a lot of power when you need a lot of power... but
too much to read a map by, or to perform many of the
menial challenges at camp or inside a vehicle. For those
times, the XT8-M has a much lower output mode that sup-
posedly gets upward of 20 hours of runtime from a fresh set
of CR123A batteries (we tried to test this, and... well, 20
Extreme(ly Useful)
Beam
BY EDITOR
A 90-degree MOLLE Light!
Contact
Extreme Beam
(877) 579-7878
info@extremebeam.com
www.extremebeam.com
The Extreme Beam XT8-M has some
seriously rugged design elements,
including a refreshingly burly milled
aluminum body.
TW_1402-Beam 11/25/13 12:51 AM Page 124
hours is a long time to
pay attention to a flash-
light). More importantly,
that lower power setting
wont blind you when
you use it for arms-
length tasks.
The other modes
include a tactical strobe
mode, and the curious SOS
mode set it, aim it sky-
ward, and forget it, and
the flashlight will blink a Morse Code SOS
until the batteries run dry many hours later.
The modes are indexed easily enough.
Turn the light on, then press the tail switch
down until the light turns off, but before
clicking it off for good. Let it up a heartbeat
later and see whats different. Ours cycles
from bright to dim to tactical strobe to SOS,
and turns back on to whatever mode you
left it in.
RIGHT ANGLE
ADAPTER
One of the more inter-
esting innovations in tacti-
cal lights recently is
Extreme Beams Metal
MOLLE right-angle
adapter, which turns
many of their straight-
tube tactical lights into
right angle flashlights.
Detach the head from your
Extreme Beam light, and thread it onto the
front of the Metal MOLLE. Thread the
base of the light onto the bottom of the
Metal MOLLE.
It now works just the same as
before, but you have a proper right
angle light, with a seriously
sturdy clip for attaching to MOLLE
loops, shirt pockets, or other
attachment points for hands-free,
forward-facing use. Use it to clip on
your light for hands-free illumination, or
hang it from a string overhead for
improvised area lighting just about any-
where.
The Metal MOLLE uses a double O-ring
seal on the male threads, just like the base
of the flashlight, so the whole thing seals up
just about as watertight as you could ask
for. TW
Tech Specs
XT8-M
Body: Aluminum
Length: 7.4 inches
Width: 1.25 inches
Illumination: 290 Lumens
Batteries: CR123A 3volt (x2)
Switch Style: Multi-Mode Tail Switch
Modes: 4
MSRP: $69.95
Hot Features: Weapon-mountable,
recoil-resistant to .50 caliber, includes
nylon holster
Tech Specs
Metal Molle
Body: Aluminum
Length: 1.7 inches
Width: 1 inch
Threads: Extreme Beam 7/8 inch
Seals: Double O-Ring
MSRP: $29.95
Hot Features: Spring-loaded contact
point, pocket clip, double sealed male
threads
What We Love
n Double O-ring seals
n Common tactical light battery
n 3 useful modes (and one more)
n Unique right-angle capability
n Replaceable lamp
n Extremely bright!
The Metal MOLLE is an exceedingly
simple device that revolutionizes the
hands-free possibilities of your Extreme
Beam ashlight.
Taken together, the XT8-M and Metal MOLLE are a
dynamic and very durable illumination team.
Hot Modes:
High
Low*
Quick-Strobe
SOS-Strobe
*20-hour battery life!
The lamp can be replaced with an
Extreme Beam or aftermarket lamp,
should something happen to it.
TW_1402-Beam 11/25/13 12:51 AM Page 125
Tactical
Gear
P
robably the most enjoyable part of owning a tactical rifle (or shotgun or pistol) is shopping around for
the perfect accessories to mount to it...and the right gear to help adapt it to your changing mission
requirements. Then to get completely outfitted for tactical action, youll need the right softgoods and
innovative tech to stay safe out thereto do more, and do it faster.
So weve put together this quick glance at some of the gear you ought to check out this spring. Theres body armor and
sights, ammunition and scopes, innovative hearing protection, targets, and the list goes on. We couldnt possibly fit every
hot new item in here, but we chose some gear we like and hope that some of it might serve you well.
Editor
TW_1402-Gear 11/25/13 1:00 AM Page 126
TACTICAL RANGE BOX
MTM Case-Gard helps you keep your tactical rifle clean
despite heavy shooting.
Their Tactical Range Box is made to hold
all of your cleaning gear and includes
multiple stands that turn it into
a cleaning platform. One
stand has a fork sized for the
magwell on a standard AR,
so you can slip your receiver
onto it and have a really easy time
accessing the actions interior.
FNHS UNIVERSAL SLING
M
T
M

C
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E
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G
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D
www.mtm-casegard.com
MATERIAL: Polymer
COLOR: Black
INCLUDES: AR magwell fork
ACCEPTS: Tactical rifles, other rifles
LENGTH: 24.6 inches
WIDTH: 8.3 inches
STREET: $50.75
BRAND: FNH
ATTACHMENT: Universal
COLOR: Black
MATERIAL: Ballistic nylon
INCLUDES: Swivels, J-hooks,
shotgun saddle
STREET: $79
www.fnhusa.com
F
N
H
Three-point tactical slings are
required gear for tactical rifles and
shotgunsso you can stay armed
while keeping your hands free to
manipulate your environment.
FNHs kit comes complete with
the hardware to mount the sling
to any rifle or shotgun and is
made durable enough to earn its
place on their thoroughly mod-
ern SCAR rifles.
REVISIONS BATLSKIN
BULLET RESISTANT PLATES
R
E
V
I
S
I
O
N
www.revisionmilitary.com
These exceptionally light ceramic-
type plates provide soldiers with pro-
tection against shrapnel and small
arms fire and are rated to stop 5.56mm
and 7.62mm ammunition at point
blank range, including 7.62mm steel
core ammunition at close range.
Revision just secured a contract for
$9.5 million to supply the Canadian
military with these plates.
MANUFACTURER:
Revision
TYPE: Armor Plate
RATING: 3+
STOPS: 5.56mm,
7.62mm Ball
SALES: Restricted
LEO / Military
BARNES POLICE AMMUNITION
Barnes Bullets has a new cartridge that applies
the tried-and-true concept of lighter projectile,
faster speed to their all-copper Tac-XP bullet.
The cartridge is intended for law enforcement
end users (and is available to civilians) and fea-
tures design elements popular for LEO use, such as low-flash powder
(to preserve your vision when shooting in low-light conditions), Techni-
Chrom casings (for reliable feeding) and an all-copper bullet for controlled expan-
sion despite the FBIs ballistic testing barricades.
BRAND: Barnes
CALIBERS:.380 ACP thru
.45 ACP
PROJECTILES: Tac-XP
CASE: Techni-Chrom
www.barnesbullets.com
B
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TW_1402-Gear 11/25/13 1:00 AM Page 127
Plinker Tactical is an innovator in .22 LR conversions for AR-
15pattern rifles and recently released this dedicated .22 LR upper
receiver. Its designed to drop onto any mil-spec AR/M4 pattern
lower receiver, and the unit includes a high-capacity magazine, a
load assist tool and is covered in mil-spec accessory rails.
Tacprogear makes a
wide array of soft goods for
police and military-end users,
including armor and armor carry-
ing solutions and awesome gloves.
Theyre designed to improve
your grip in hot climates, so you can
confidently handle metal tools, climbing
tasks or otherwise get a positive grip on
your tools and environment, no matter the
weather, sweat or
other fluids. The
ventilated top
keeps your hands
from overheating
inside.
Hawke Sport Optics makes
quality tactical optics for precision rifles
and offers a rather deep Sport HD IR family
of scopes.
Their latest addition will be at home on many tacti-
cal rifles, but none more so than the .22 LR practice/training/recre-
ational versions of your favorite rifle. The new HD IR Rimfire scope
has a ballistic compensated
reticle thatll help you get
shots on target from 50 to
200 yards, which is awe-
some for a rimfire scope.
H
A
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K
E
www.hawkeoptics.com
POWER: 3x-9x
OBJECTIVE: 40mm
LENSES: High definition (coated)
TUBE: 1 inch
MSRP: $139.99
PLINKER TACTICAL DEDICATED UPPER
MATERIAL: Forged 7075 T6 Alloy, Polymer
CALIBER: .22 LR
CAPACITY: 25 Rounds
BARREL: 16.25 Inches
TWIST: 1:16
RAILS: Mil-Spec x4 rails
MSRP: $499.99
www.plinkertactical.com
P
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A
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TACPROGEAR
SHOOTER
GLOVES
MATERIAL: Tacky polymer, Neoprene
CLOSURE: Velcro strap
SIZES: M, L, XL
KNUCKLES: Padded
PALM: Anti-vibration padded
MSRP: $34.98
www.tacprogloves.com
THERMBRIGHT PASSIVE THERMAL TARGETS
Range Systems makes target retrieval systems as
well as targets, including these fascinating Passive
Thermal targets that utilize a proprietary advanced
coating process that effectively reflects the cold energy
of space when tilted backward by 10 degrees, accord-
ing to company documents.
The result?
A target you can see with thermal imaging scopes,
and thus, sight in on. Normal targets just appear as
indistinct squares, but these give realistic silhouettes of
personnel, vehicles and animals, on which you can
zero your rifle and train hard.
MSRP: $60.18
www.range-systems.com
R
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E

S
Y
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M
S
T
A
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P
R
O
G
E
A
R
HAWKE SPORT OPTICS
SPORT HD IR
RIMFIRE SCOPE
TW_1402-Gear 11/25/13 1:00 AM Page 128
MINOX ZV3 SCOPE
AFFORDABLE HIGH-END
Minox offers scopes engineered in Germany and built for shoot-
ers and hunters, and they are available in popular magnification
ranges. Their 3-9x40mm scope, a popular model, is nitrogen
purged, waterproof, and has a total travel for windage and eleva-
tion of 60 minutes each.
POWER: 3x-9x
OBJECTIVE: 40mm
TUBE: 1 inch
MSRP: $279
www.minox.com/usa
This interesting technology isnt something youll wield, but
should you be involved in use of force in a major city, it might
be used on you.
The system is simple in concept (though complex in its sci-
ence): a series of sensors are mounted to utility poles through-
out targeted areas of major cities like Boston, San Francisco and
Charlotte. The censors are tuned to only record gunshots and
then to relay data about time and location to a central com-
puter. The computer then takes input from several sensors and
triangulates, within 10-15 feet or so, where the shot came
from. It reportedly can also tell with a certain degree of cer-
tainty which direction the shot was fired. As part of your legal
defense, see if any Shot Spotter or similar systems recorded
data about your encounter. It could help exonerate you. At the
least, it would be relevant to your defense.
PROTECT SENSITIVE
ELECTRONICS
Many professionals are duly cautious
about their RFID technology and
sensitive electronics, trying to
keep them from being scanned
or hacked, especially while
operating in urban areas
overseas or even detected.
Blackhawk makes a series of
bags that address those con-
cerns and use Zero Trace signal
blocking lining to keep all cellular and
RFID signals safely locked both out and
in, respectively. Slip your laptop, phone,
passport or other sensitive material in
there, and boom: no electronic snooping,
no electronic detection.
B
L
A
C
K
H
A
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K
www.blackhawk.com
MATERIAL: Zero Trace lining, 1050
denier nylon, Velcro
SIGNAL ATTENUATION: 33dbm
PREVENTS: Device detection, RFID read-
ing, device tracking
WEIGHT: 0.05 pounds (cell phone pouch)
to 0.6 pounds (laptop pouch)
FITS: Various
MSRP: $14.99 - $52.99
ADVERTISER PAGE
Battenfeld Technologies.........63
Blue Force Gear......................87
Daniel Defense .........................7
Major Surplus & Survival ..........2
MG Arms, Inc. ..........................3
Ontario Knife Company..........35
Secure Medical.....................101
TOPS Knives ........................131
Yankee Hill Machine Co........132
Advertiser
INDEX
SHOT SPOTTER
Featured
Gear
TW_1402-Gear 11/25/13 1:42 AM Page 129
Our society faces asymmetric threats on a shifting battlefield.
Combat now lasts only seconds and erupts in some of our most sacred places.
Training, then, must be carried out in places never before imagined, and every
officer must be armed, trained and ready.
A
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P
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T
TW_1402-Parting 11/25/13 12:53 AM Page 130
TW_1402_C3 11/22/13 4:08 AM Page C3
TW_1402_C4 11/22/13 4:09 AM Page C4

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Varmint System offers excellent long-range accuracy.

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