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COMPLETE GUIDE TO THERMAL: THERMAL


BUYER’S
LOWER PRICES, HIGHER TECH GUIDE

VOLUME 6 | ISSUE 6

Supremacy
REMINGTON’S HIGHLY
ACCURATE 700 PCR

A PRO’S 20 ROUNDS
PICKS OF THUNDER
10 TOP GEAR MOSSBERG’S
CHOICES 590M SHOTGUN
BLAZING
FAST-HANDLING
TROY’S SOCC CARBINE
4 WORLD OF FIREPOWER

76

48 26
NOVEMBER-DECEMBER, 2018 5
COVER
STORY
38 Ride The Wave
With the new Remington 700 PCR, think
looong range and smaaall groups

FEATURES
14 Warfighter Worthy
The box magazine-fed 590M combines
100 14 lightning-fast reloads with Mossberg reliability

26 Woman Warrior
Firearms instructor Tatiana Whitlock talks
guns, shooting, business and challenges

48 New Age
Once cost-prohibitive, thermal optics have
reached consumer market critical mass

56 Beyond 20/20
Field-testing the FLIR ThermoSight Pro
PTS223, an infrared optic force multiplier

64 Buyer's Guide
We have got 16 sweet thermal imaging
riflescopes

76 The Upper Level


The Wilson Combat AR9 is accurate, well-

56 118 built—and a hell of a lot of fun to shoot

86 Practical, No B.S.
Gear essentials from a guy who makes his
living at the shooting range

94 Enlighten Your Defense


With 500 lumens, Streamlight’s TLR-8
enhances your targeting capability

100 The Path to Accuracy


Seven solid, field-tested steps to making
anyone a better shooter (this means you)

106 Built On Quality


106 When talking Troy's SOCC Carbine, think
beauty and the beast

118 Silence Is Golden


One suppessor, one purchase, multi-
caliber capability from Silent Legion

COLUMNS
06 First Words
08 Uncovered
10 Reload
12 Dual Blades
86 124 124 Ground Zero
128 Pocket Dump
« 130 top Five
on THE COVER
Subject: Remington 700 PCR
Photography: Ben Davis | Designer: Kelly Lee
6 WORLD OF FIREPOWER

First
NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2018 VOLUME 6 • ISSUE 6
EDITORIAL
Jason Mulroney Director of Content
Doug Jeffrey Editor
Kelly Nomura Executive Managing Editor
Karl Funke Managing Editor
TEXT BY DOUG JEFFREY
DESIGN

Words
Katia Sverdlova Design Director
Kelly Lee Senior Art Director

CONTRIBUTORS
Gus Alonzo, Larry Atil, Steve Barlow, Bob Campbell, Simon Cruz, Jr.,
Ben Davis, Jason Davis, Amelia Earl, Peter Faria, Brad Fitzpatrick,
Joshua Jackson, Paul Martinez, Gordon Meehl, Drew Pruhs,
Richard Schutz, Mike Searson, Guy Spangenberg

ADVERTISING
Gabe Frimmel Ad Sales Director
(714) 200-1930 gfrimmel@engagedmediainc.com
Casey Clifford Senior Account Executive
When my phone beeped a second time, I have turned out much differently for the (714) 200-1982
Mark Pack Senior Account Executive
looked over at the screen to see who sent potential carjacker, who ended up behind (714) 200-1939
the text. The previous message had just bars, not behind the wheels of a new car Spencer Redmond Account Executive
(919) 771-8919
come through not more than a minute like he envisioned. John Bartulin Account Executive
(866) 866-5146 ext. 2746
before, so it seemed, but Siri doesn’t Eric Gomez Advertising Traffic Coordinator
waste any time letting you know there’s a During those chaotic seconds and
MARKETING
message. minutes, my friend said things went very Michael Chadwick Digital Marketing & Medial Coordinator
well. OPERATIONS
The name on the screen immediately Surajpal Singh Bisht Prepress Manager
Devender Hasija Newsstand and Circulation Analyst
inspired me to see what’s up. With the “No shakes. No jitters. And I slept like a Shailesh Khandelwal Subscriptions Manager
office phone to my right and the computer baby last night,” he said. Alex Mendoza Administrative Assistant
Manish Kumar Mishra Operations Specialist
directly in front of me, I seldom have my Victoria Van Vlear Intern Program Manager

phone on. This time I was glad I did. Considering his background, I told him, EDITORIAL, PRODUCTION & SALES OFFICE
that didn’t surprise me. Someone else, 17890 Sky Park Circle, Suite 250, Irvine, CA 92614
(714) 939-9991 • Fax: (800) 249-7761
STREETS OF LA however, may not have been as lucky. www.facebook.com/worldoffirepower
www.facebook.com/eembybeckett
“Sorry the last couple of weeks have been
such a thrash.” LIFE LESSONS WORLD OF FIREPOWER (ISSN 2332-0281) is published bimonthly six
times per year (January/February, March/April, May/June, July/August,
In conveying this story, there are several September/October, November/December) by Engaged Media Inc., LLC,
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“No worries,” I responded. important points to consider. POSTMASTER: SEND ADDRESS CHANGES TO WORLD OF FIREPOWER
C/O ENGAGED MEDIA INC, VSI, INC. 905 KENT ST., LIBERTY, MO 64068.
© 2018 by Engaged Media, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction of any
Due to his line of work, I knew things could First, thank goodness my friend is okay. material from this issue in whole or in part is strictly prohibited.
get hectic. With the intention of sending This is a good man who works hard CUSTOMER SERVICE
him an email in 10 minutes or so, I turned and is passionate about what he does. Engaged Media, Inc.
17890 Sky Park Circle, Suite 250. Irvine, CA 92614
my attention back to the laptop just as the Second, it illustrates how important Subscriptions, Address Changes,
phone beeped again. situational awareness is. With four people Renewals, Missing or Damaged Copies
(800) 764-6278
in the car in a revitalized downtown LA, (239) 653-0225 Foreign Inquiries
subscriptions@engagedmediainc.com
“And someone tried to carjack me last he easily could have been so distracted customerservice@engagedmediainc.com
night—to top it all off.” that this incident could have gone south Back Issues: www.engagedmediamags.com
Letters to Editor, New Products, or to Contribute a Story or Photo
very quickly. Third, his training obviously djeffrey@engagedmediainc.com

“No way,” I responded. “Did he use a paid off. Just go back and read the last SUBSCRIPTION RATES
weapon?” quote. That says everything. $21.95/1 year, $34.95/2 years. Outside the U.S., add $26.00 per year
payable in U.S. funds. Single copy price is $8.99.
Please allow 6 to 8 weeks for new subscriptions to begin.
“He didn’t have a chance. He was staring So, take something away from this
down the barrel of mine before he could incident. Learn from it. Share it. Tell your
pull his out of his pack.” wife or girlfriend.
ENGAGED MEDIA INC.
Pinaki Bhattacharya CEO
“It’s unfortunate that you had to experience Remember, life is way too precious. Nathaniel Phillips HR and Office Management
Jason Mulroney Director of Content
that, but I am glad you’re okay.” Don’t let some idiot like that potential Philip Trinkle Newsstand Sales Director
carjacker ruin your day. Syed Nazir Razik Digital Marketing Director

He said he was one of four in the car. If This magazine is purchased by the buyer with the understanding that
information presented is from various sources from which there can be
he were alone, he said the incident may Train hard. Live strong. no warranty or responsibility by Engaged Media Inc., as to the legality,
completeness or technical accuracy.

#SIGSUPPRESSORS SIGSAUER.COM
8 WORLD OF FIREPOWER

02.
Peltor

01.
Glock
Sport Tactical 500 Electronic
Hearing Protector
PeltorComms.3m.com
Custom
$149 and up
US.Glock.com
$1,599 and up

03.
Mystery Ranch
Komodo Dragon Assault Pack
MysteryRanch.com
$395
NOVEMBER-DECEMBER, 2018 9
05.
Oakley
SI Lightweight Tactical Gloves
Oakley.com
$30 and up

04.
Spyderco
Szabohawk H01
Spyderco.com
$359.95

07.
06.
Barnes
DeRespina
Karambit
DeRespinaKnives.com
Precision Match Ammunition $109.99
BarnesBullets.com
$33.49 and up

08.
Oakley
Holbrook Sunglasses
Oakley.com
$79 and up

PHOTOS BY BE N DAVIS
09.
Ares
Aegis Enhanced Belt
AresGear.com
$84.99 and up
10 WORLD OF FIREPOWER

RELOAD
[02]

[o4]
[07]

[06]
NOVEMBER-DECEMBER, 2018 11
PHOTO BY LARRY ATIL 01. BattlBox / AR500 02. TOPS Knives /
4-Inch Gong Target Operator 7
BattlBox is flat-out cool, and here’s how it From top to bottom, TOPS nailed it with this
works. It’s a monthly subscription service in knife. Not only is the name awesome, but the
which they send you a box of an assorted 12.50-inch knife has classic American “fighting”
number of supplies—emergency supplies, knife aesthetics. And it’s also a workhorse. The
hiking essentials, bushcraft, EDC gear, differentially heat-treated blade, which is made
watches, backpacks, knives, shooting of 5/16-inch thick 1075, is impact resistant on
accessories, etc. Basically, they cover the edge and has a strong spine. The handle
everything an outdoorsman digs. For your is tan canvas Micarta on the bottom and black
viewing pleasure, here we’re rockin’ the G10 on top. Combined, that means you’ll have
gongs from the box we received this month. a grip and a half. The entire handle is more
ShootingTargets7.com makes them, and they than an inch thick, so it will feel like you’re got
will last forever with handgun ammo. When a handful of ax or hatchet. If you need finer
you hit them, which we occasionally do, they cuts, TOPS has you covered, as the finger choil
ring like a bell. The AR500 steel deflects the allows you to get great precision.
bullets with ease, and they are CNC laser-cut,
which means superb quality. MSRP: $190
TOPSKNIVES.COM
MSRP: $24.99-$149.99
BATTLBOX.COM

04. Nanuk / 990


[01] 03. Nanuk / 935 6 Up Customizable Rifle Case
Pistol Case Blame it on deadlines. This box arrived, and
it sat in our office for a few days. Finally, we
Like its big “brother,” the 935 6 Up Pistol Case— opened it, and we’re glad we did. The 990
which features closed-cell PEF foam—is super features outstanding construction, it’s solid, the
solid, it is constructed with precision, the seal seal is tight seal and it’s customizable. It also
is tight and it gets the job done. The case pro- features two spring-loaded handles and zooms
vides storage for as many as six handguns and
[05]
around on polyurethane wheels. It is water-
10 single- or double-stack magazines. You can proof and is equipped with four PowerClaw
also customize this a little. Simply remove the latches, including 2 TSA keyed locks. The inte-
center foam inset and reconfigure the case for rior dimensions are 44 inches long, 14.5 inches
four handguns and a storage area for accesso- wide and 6 inches high. It weighs 17.8 pounds,
ries. If you’re wondering, it will accept 1911s. It and the internal volume is 2.21 cubic feet.
also has two reinforced eyelets for locking, so
you can secure, store and transport your guns MSRP: VARIES
without any worry. The interior dimensions NANUK.COM
are 20.5 inches long, 11.3 inches wide and 7.5
inches high, and it is made of NK-7 resin.

MSRP: VARIES
06. Allen / Intercept
NANUK.COM
Tactical Pack
There’s also something alluring about

05. 5 Stone Products / backpacks. Ya know what we mean? Allen’s


Intercept Pack is a 2,500 cubic inch capacity,

Pistol Mask hydration-compatible bag with internal com-


partments, multiple external accessory pockets
[03] “Concealed in plain sight.” That’s what 5 Stone and an external MOLLE web system. The Endu-
ra fabric construction makes it rugged enough
officials say about their IWB holster. They also
say it’s designed for those who don't want to that you could probably run it over in a tank. Its
change the way they dress, just to conceal dimensions are 18.5x16x10 inches.
their weapon. When wearing the Pistol Mask,
MSRP: $64.99-$74.99
it appears that you have a cellphone on your BYALLEN.COM
waist. It even has a camera lens, speaker,
volume buttons and power plug. The way it

07. Honeywell / Impact


is designed gives the impression that it is too
thin to be holding a weapon. And how about

Sport BOLT
the draw? Execute a quick tug on the front
panel, as that overrides the magnetic clo-
sure and releases the spring-loaded panels to
What is it about electronic hearing that is so
open flat against your body. The Pistol Mask
amazing? The engineering? Yes. The quality? No
is adjustable to fit dozens of the most popular
doubt. And these score 10s in both categories.
sub-compact pistols in 9mm, .40 caliber and
These muffs actively listen and automatically
.45 cal.
shut off amplification whenever harmful sound
MSRP: $49 (GRAY AND BLACK MODEL), $59 levels are reached. They block any noise, con-
(ALL BLACK) tinuous or impulse, 82 dB or higher. To enhance
5STONEPRODUCTS.COM low-level sound, the Bolt employs built-in
microphones that amplify range commands
and other ambient sounds. Notice that the slim
design makes this a versatile earmuff for most
shooting environments. They also have a 4-hour
auto shut-off that preserves battery life.

MSRP: $77.95
HONEYWELL.COM
12

L
WORLD OF FIREPOWER

blade length
3.4 INCHES (8.6 CM)

blade thickness
0.121 INCHES (0.307 CM) blade finish
STONEWASHED
AND SATIN FINISH
blade Hardness
CPM 20CV

Zero
Toleranc
0609
Look closely.
The 0609 is a smaller, more
carry-ready version of ZT’s Factory
Custom. It is clean, streamlined and
has detailed handle machining for
grip and visual impact. And check the
3D-machined handle. It is anodized in Closed Length
bronze. It also brings some tough-
ness to the table. The blade provides
4.25 INCHES
(10.8 CM)
toughness and resistance to chipping
as well as hardness and edge reten-
tion. It opens manually with ZT’s KVT
ball-bearing opening system, but the
flipper is there if you want it. Get up
close and personal with this knife, and
you’ll likely flip over it.

ZT.KAIUSALTD.COM

$275
handle material
TITANIUM,
ANODIZED BRONZE

overall
Overall Length weight
7.4 INCHES (19.1 CM) 3.3 OUNCES
NOVEMBER-DECEMBER, 2018 13
T L
C
A I
S

TEXT BY A STAFF WRITER


PHOTOS BY GUY SPANGENBERG

blade finish
TITANIUM
CARBO-NITRIDE
COATING

blade length
Blade Thickness
3.25 INCHES (8.3 CM)
0.106 INCHES (0.27CM)

Blade Hardness
8CR13MOV

Kershaw
closed length
4.25 INCHES (18.4 CM)
Concierge
The Concierge will definitely take
care of all your pocketknife needs.
No questions asked. The modified
drop-point blade opens with a
flipper and the manual KVT
ball-bearing system, which means
it will open fast and easy with one
hand. The handle boasts a sub-
stantial grip yet it feels slim enough
for EDC. Plus, for a secure grip,
the boys (and girls) at Kershaw
added a black, glass-filled nylon
backspacer with raised jimping.
Rock it over, and you’ll notice the
inset pocketclip, which is flush
with the handle scale. Finally, the
blade, liners and hardware are
titanium carbo-nitride coated.
Any questions?

KERSHAW.KAIUSALTD.COM

handle material
G10 $59.99

overall length overall weight


7.25 INCHES (10.8 CM) 4.3 OUNCES (122 GRAMS)
14 WORLD OF FIREPOWER

Ready for battle, the Mossberg 590M


is shown with 51 rounds of Hornady
American Gunner Reduced-Recoil 00
Buckshot on tap.
NOVEMBER-DECEMBER, 2018 15

Warfighter
Worthy

FOR LIGHTNING-FAST 20-ROUND


RELOADS & RIDICULOUS
RELIABILITY, THE MOSSBERG
590M IS A TOP CHOICE
TEXT & PHOTOS BY RICHARD SCHUTZ
16 WORLD OF FIREPOWER

“The 590M’s claim to fame is its


robust standard 10-round double-
stack box magazine.”

W
hen it comes to competition,
tactical or home-defense With the double-
stack magazine
purposes, reliability is king, located at the
center of the
and ammunition capacity shotgun, between
the shoulder and
is a close second. Unless the rules of the support hand,
balance is not a
competition or regulations prohibit, the more problem.
rounds on tap, the better. After that comes the
ability to make a rapid reload.
DESIGN AND OPERATION
Many types of rifles and pistols have had Many of the components used in the
high-capacity magazines for years; shotguns 590M are similar to those used on the
have not. Most domestic shotguns, whether traditional 500/590 shotguns, but few
semi-auto or pump-action, are limited to are interchangeable. Gone is the elevator
how many rounds can be fit into their tubular assembly. The magazine tube, now
magazines, usually four to nine. designated the “guide tube,” is blanked off
A look at the some similarities, but with its double-stack at the receiver by the forward box magazine
balance from the
If an extended magazine tube is installed, the other side. magazine the Mossberg definitely comes out on lug recess and only serves as a guide for the
capacity can be increased by anywhere from top in the capacity category. action slide assembly.
one to eight rounds if you can tolerate the
magazine tube extending beyond the end of JUST WHAT IS IT? To accommodate feeding from the box
the barrel. The problem then becomes how The Mossberg 590M is a box-magazine fed, magazine, modifications have also been
to quickly reload that tubular magazine. With pump-action 12-gauge shotgun based upon the made to the bolt and bolt slide. The bolt,
a lot of practice this can be done quickly by 500/590 family of shotguns. These shotguns however, still uses the rugged dual extractors
loading two at a time with up to four in-hand. use a twin bar-slide action and are well-known found on previous models. The ejector also
Unfortunately, few of us will ever truly master for their reliability. The 590M’s claim to fame is is still easily replaceable if it should fail.
this process. Most of us will find slapping in a its robust standard 10-round double-stack box The trigger assembly is different from that
new magazine much quicker. magazine. Five-, 15- and 20-round double- found on the 590 model, and barrels are not
stack magazines are also available. With this interchangeable between models.
Some manufacturers, especially foreign ones, firepower available, score one for the 590M.
make box-fed shotguns with single-stack or Obviously, the aluminum receiver has been
drum magazines, but they haven’t become The heat shield model evaluated here modified to accept the box magazine. Most
mainstream and many suffer from reliability (#50206) has replaced the Tri-Rail version notably, three slots have been milled into
problems. that was introduced at the 2018 SHOT Show. each side of the bottom of the receiver to
On the current model the heat shield is accept the three lugs that are molded into
Enter the Mossberg 590M and Remington mounted differently, and the forend does not each side of the top of the magazine. These
870DM box-fed shotguns in 2018. The two share have molded-in 1913 Mil-Std rail sections. serve to align and anchor the magazine into
NOVEMBER-DECEMBER, 2018 17

exactly the same position every time a


magazine is inserted into the receiver.

In a major departure from other box-fed shot-


guns, the 590M does not have a magazine
well. Typically, the magazine well serves to
guide the magazine into a uniform position
each time it is inserted. Unfortunately, at the
same time, friction created by the interface
of the magazine well and magazine slows
down the loading process and often prevents
the magazine from dropping freely from the
firearm when the magazine release button
Four double-
or paddle is operated. Score another one for stack magazines
are available for
the 590M. the 590M. From own weight. Just make sure that it doesn’t The receiver is also drilled and tapped to
left to right they
have 20-, 15-, drop on your foot. accept a Picatinny rail section or scope base
10- and 5-round
Magazines are inserted using by the same capacities. These for mounting an optic.
magazines are
“rock and lock” method as the AK-47 very rugged, yet Operating controls on the 590M will be
reasonably light.
platform. A forward lug on the magazine familiar to anyone who has used a 590 for The fixed-length, black synthetic buttstock
locks into a stationary recess in the receiver any length of time. The trigger has the same has a soft ¾-inch thick rubber buttpad to help
just behind the guide tube. The magazine is feel, the two-position safety is in its usual mitigate recoil. By using a FLEX adapter, the
then rocked to the rear, where it locks into location at the top rear of the receiver, and 590M is compatible with the Mossberg FLEX
the magazine catch housing assembly. This the action lock is placed behind and to the buttstock system. FLEX forends, however, are
bi-lateral magazine catch can be operated left of the trigger guard. not compatible with the 590M.
from either side by pushing a release
button similar to that on an AR-style rifle. Sights are Mossberg’s standard fully adjustable The heart of the 590M is its magazine, which
Pushing either of these release buttons tactical ghost ring rear and post front sight. is made for Mossberg by Adaptive Tactical.
causes the magazine to drop free under its The front sight has a fluorescent orange ramp. According to the patent number and United
18 WORLD OF FIREPOWER

States Patent Office records, the patent for


the design of this magazine was filed on

“they all fed and


September 16, 2011, and granted on May 28,
2013. Where has it been for five years?

Magazines are constructed in two basic parts.


The upper portion is common to all magazines functioned without a
and provides the transition from double stack
to single stack, center feed. The lower portion problem. Even when
varies in length according to the capacity of the
magazine and is solidly attached to the upper I mixed types
portion using eight self-tapping countersunk
screws. The footprint of the lower portion and brands of
ammunition, the 590M
measures roughly 2 ³⁄8 inches by 3 ³⁄8 inches.

did not complain.”


The internals of the magazines consist of hardened
steel feed lips, over-molded steel shell ramps, anti-
cant rounded follower, ASTM-A-228 music wire

«
spring and an easily removable floor plate. These
magazines are extremely robust and well-made
but are relatively light, with the 10-round version The heat shield
weighing in at 20 ounces, empty. on top of the
barrel separates the
operator from the
hot barrel after 20
MOSSBERG 590M HEAT SHIELD
What really makes the magazines rounds of 12-gauge
ammunition have
extraordinary is that shotgun shell dimensions been fired in rapid Features
succession. COMPACT, INTERCHANGEABLE HIGH-CAPACITY MAGAZINES
vary significantly from brand to brand, and (5, 10, 15 AND 20 ROUNDS)
even lot to lot. Their dimensions are nowhere MOSSBERG 590 DEPENDABILITY
BI-LATERAL MAGAZINE RELEASE
near as tight as those for metallic rifle and
GHOST RING REAR AND POST FRONT SIGHTS
pistol cartridges. This presents a significant
challenge to anyone designing a magazine
such as the one used by Mossberg. Factory Specifications
MANUFACTURER: O.F. MOSSBERG & SONS, INC.
WEBSITE: MOSSBERG.COM
The optional magazines are a bit expensive at
MODEL: 590M HEAT SHIELD (EVALUATED)
$101, $127 and $140 for five, 15 and 20 rounds ITEM NUMBER: 50206
respectively, but why buy the 590M if you’re not CALIBER: 12 GAUGE, 2 3/4 INCH

going to buy the 20-round magazine too? MAGAZINE CAPACITY: 5, 10, 15 OR 20 ROUNDS
ACTION TYPE: PUMP WITH TWIN ACTION BARS
BARREL: 18.5-INCH BLUED STEEL
CHOICES CHOKE: CYLINDER BORE CHOKE TUBE SUPPLIED; COMPATIBLE WITH THE
ACCU-CHOKE SYSTEM
Initially, only two models of the 590M were
FOREND: BLACK POLYMER “CORN COBB” STYLE; STEEL-HEAT SHIELD
available. First is the basic version, item number RECEIVER: ALUMINUM, BLACK ANODIZED
50205, which has a bead front sight and a fixed RIFLING: SMOOTH BORE
cylinder bore. The second model is item number RAIL MOUNT: ACCESSORY RAIL AVAILABLE FOR MOUNTING AN OPTIC
SIGHTS: FULLY ADJUSTABLE REAR GHOST RING AND FRONT POST WITH
50206 and is the one evaluated here. As I was FLUORESCENT ORANGE INSERT
completing this article, Mossberg announced a TRIGGER PULL: 8 POUNDS, 3 OUNCES, AS TESTED (AVERAGE OF 10
CONSECUTIVE PULLS USING A DIGITAL LYMAN TRIGGER PULL GAUGE)
Shockwave version. I’m sure that once production
STOCK: BLACK SYNTHETIC (COMPATIBLE WITH FLEX SYSTEM BUTTSTOCKS
has started to meet demand for these models, (WITH ADAPTER))
others will follow. OVERALL LENGTH: 39.5 INCHES
WEIGHT: 6 POUNDS, 15 OUNCES (8 POUNDS, 3 OUNCES WITH EMPTY 10-ROUND
MAGAZINE)
I would be very surprised if Mossberg isn’t also MSRP: $801
working on a box-fed model 930. Why wouldn’t

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20 WORLD OF FIREPOWER

A look into the open


receiver from the
bottom shows the

“The ability
guides for the bolt
to follow.

to make
lightning-
fast
20-round The underside of
the receiver with
the bolt closed

reloads
shows the bolt slide
and the area that
strips the shell from
the magazine.

simply
can’t be

«
overstated.”
PERFORMANCE
RIFLED SLUG AT 50 YARDS SM. GRP. AVG. GRP.
High-performance
fluorescent orange
paint is used on WINCHESTER SUPER X X12RS15 1 OZ. RIFLED SLUG 2.3 2.6
the drift adjustable
ramp front sight. FEDERAL PREMIUM PB127 DPRS TRUBALL DEEP
2.6 3.0
PENETRATOR 1 OZ. RIFLED SLUG

HORNADY #86234 AMERICAN WHITETAIL 1 OZ.


1.5 1.8
RIFLED SLUG

SM. GRP. - Smallest 3-shot group; AVG.GRP. - Average of three 3-shot groups

AVG. PATTERN
BUCKSHOT GROUP SIZE AT 20 YARDS
SIZE

FEDERAL PREMIUM PD132 00 00 BUCKSHOT 4 3⁄16

FEDERAL PREMIUM PD156 4B #4 BUCKSHOT 22 ¼

HORNADY #86240 CRITICAL DEFENSE 00 BUCKSHOT 8 13⁄16

HORNADY #86274 AMERICAN GUNNER REDUCED RECOIL 00 BUCKSHOT 11 ¹⁄16

AVG. PATTERN SIZE - Shot pattern size in inches, average of 3 shots

they? How about a 930M JM Pro version? For defensive evaluations I used 1-ounce rifled
slugs from Winchester, Federal and Hornady,
FEEDING THE BEAST #4 buckshot from Federal Premium, and #00
For this evaluation, multiple brands and buckshot from Federal Premium and Hornady.
types of birdshot, buckshot and rifled slugs Once again, they all fed and functioned without
were used. For competition purposes, I used a problem. Even when I mixed types and brands
Federal 3 dram equivalent, 1 1/8 ounce, #7 of ammunition, the 590M did not complain.
1/2 shot. It functioned perfectly. For general
testing I used the Federal loads that I use in SIGHTS AND OPTICS
competition, Independence 3 dram equivalent The fully adjustable ghost ring rear and post
1 1/8 ounce, #8 shot, and various 1 to 1 1/4 front sight work well, but for this evaluation
ounce, 2 3/4 to 3 1/4 dram equivalent, #6 to (especially for competition purposes) I
#9 shot shells from partial boxes. Again, all fed installed a Holosun model HS510C circle-dot
and functioned without a problem. reflex sight. This required the removal of
the rear ghost ring sight assembly and the
22 WORLD OF FIREPOWER

installation a section of When I approached the


Picatinny rail on the drilled shotgun-only stage, I was
and tapped receiver. This was confident that the 20-round
done in less than a half hour. magazine would easily get me
through the 16-target course
The Holosun HS510C reflex sight was an of fire. Someone must have
excellent addition to the Mossberg 590M. told the person who set that
They only issue with this combination is that stage up that I had a 20-round
it requires the shooter to lift his/her cheek magazine, because they had added a
slightly off of the stock to look through the Texas Star to the course for a total of 22
optic. An aftermarket buttstock or riser would targets (double-helix, Texas Star, 9 poppers
easily remedy this inconvenience. and a stop plate). Not to worry, I just dropped
the empty 20-round magazine and slapped in
A QD mount is built into the HS510C for a full 10-rounder.
easy attachment to any Picatinny rail.
The reticle can be configured for a 2 MOA I made a final trip to the range for slug and The standard black
dot only, 65 MOA ring only, or the two buckshot accuracy/grouping evaluations. I synthetic buttstock
with ¾-inch-thick
combined. Ten daylight and two night- took one shot at 25 yards using Winchester rubber recoil pad is
adequate, but with
vision-compatible brightness settings are 1-ounce Foster slugs to find that the Holosun the installation of
a FLEX adapter the
available. Adjustments are 0.5 MOA per HS510C was dead-on. At 50 yards the full line of FLEX
buttstocks can be
click. The unit weighs only 7.6 ounces. Hornady #86234 American Whitetail 1-ounce fitted to the 590M.
rifled slugs had the smallest average for three weight of the 20-round
AT THE RANGE, IN 3-shot groups at 1.8 inches. Two of those magazine and its effect
COMPETITION groups were right at 1.5 inches. on balance and swing. With
The trigger assem-
I fired the 590M on multiple occasions. The bly is similar to that the weight of the magazine in
of the 500/590
first range session was to sight-in the Holosun Buckshot hit at the point of aim at 20 yards. I shotgun line, and the center of the shotgun, it was
the action release
HS510C reflex sight, confirm that the shotgun used three types of 00 buckshot and one type of lever is located be- not a problem. I didn’t even think
hind and to the left
functioned properly and to become familiar with 4B buckshot. Both the Hornady Critical Defense of the trigger guard. about it during the match.
The magazine
its operation. The pattern was hitting where I 00 Buckshot and the Hornady American Gunner release can be op-
wanted it at 20 yards within five shots. I then Reduced Recoil 00 Buckshot had group sizes that erated from either
side by depressing FINAL THOUGHTS
either of the release
fired 20 more rounds of birdshot to make sure I expected at 20 yards. The Critical Defense 00 buttons. This one is definitely going to find a
that the magazines functioned properly. buck produced an 8 13⁄16-inch average for three home in my gun safe. During all aspects
separate shots and the American Gunner Reduced of this evaluation, and specifically during
Next came a one-day tactical 3-gun match. Recoil 00 buck returned an 11 ¹⁄16-inch average. competition, the Mossberg 590M functioned
The 590M was used on two of eight stages. What surprised me was how tight the pattern flawlessly. There really is nothing like a pump-
The one thing that I couldn’t practice was to was for the Federal Premium Personal Defense 12 action shotgun for reliability.
remember to rack the shotgun after the first gauge 00 buckshot. The average for three separate
shot. I had previously been using a semi-auto shots was 4 ³⁄16 inches with one group at just I have reviewed several high-capacity semi-
shotgun in these matches, so racking the 1 7⁄8 inches. automatic shotguns over the past couple
shotgun after each shot had to be learned. years. While they all ran well at times, they
On both stages I hesitated after the first shot The only issue, if you can call it that, that I found were picky about what ammunition they
before operating the slide. Subsequent shots with the 590M was that with a full magazine liked. Even when I found ammunition that
were not a problem. The 590M did its part the action was a bit stiff to operate. I blame that seemed to work reliably and bought a couple
and helped me earn a ninth-place finish out on the upward pressure exerted by the shell on of cases of it, at some point in time the
of 36 competitors. the bolt slide. Initially I was concerned about the semi-autos would decide that they didn’t like
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24 WORLD OF FIREPOWER

it anymore and jam, usually in the middle of


a match. When they worked, they were great;
when they didn’t, jams were usually very Inside
difficult to clear.
the Holosun HS510C Reflex Optic
The ability to make lightning-fast 20-round The HS510C open reflex circle dot sight features dual with 2 MOA dot, a 2 MOA dot only and a 65 MOA ring
reloads simply can’t be overstated. No matter power supplies with solar power during daylight usage only using a single button.
and battery backup during low light conditions.
how good you are at speed loading your There are 10 daylight and two night vision illumination
Due to its open-frame design, the HS510C offers a wide settings that can be selected by using the +/- buttons.
tube-fed autoloader, it isn’t even close to
field of view for better situational awareness. It is also This model uses a red reticle but a version with a green
being as fast as dropping an empty magazine parallax-free and has unlimited eye relief. reticle is also available.
and locking in another.
The reticle can be switched between a 65 MOA circle A quick detach mount is standard.

While the attributes of the 590M are LIGHT SOURCE LED


outstanding for competition and home
defense, for the warfighter those attributes MAGNIFICATION 1X

are even more important. When their lives


MULTI-COATINGS YES
may depend upon a few extra rounds from
a fast reload during a firefight, the Mossberg BATTERY TYPE CR2032
590M could make a real difference.
BATTERY LIFE UP TO 50,000 HOURS

When it comes to high capacity and reliability


6061 ALUMINUM WITH
HOUSING MATERIAL
in a 12-gauge shotgun, I don’t know of TITANIUM HOOD

anything that can match, much less beat, the


HOUSING COLOR BLACK
Mossberg 590M.
ADJUSTMENT PER CLICK 0.5 MOA

WINDAGE & ELEVATION


+/- 50 MOA
TRAVEL

-22 TO 140 DEGREES


WORKING TEMPERATURE
FAHRENHEIT

WINDOW SIZE 0.91X1.2 INCHES

SIZE 3.3X1.6X1.8 INCHES

WEIGHT 7.6 OUNCES (ACTUAL)

The Holosun HS510C fits nicely on the 590M using a blued Picatinny rail/scope mount attached to
the drilled and tapped receiver.
26 WORLD OF FIREPOWER

Tatiana Whitlock
(pictured) offers a
number of firearms
training classes,
including concealed
carry, handgun, carbine,
and youth and safety.
NOVEMBER-DECEMBER, 2018 27

Warrior
DRIVEN BY PASSION & EXCELLING WITH
QUALITY, TATIANA WHITLOCK HAS CARVED A
NICHE IN THE FIREARMS INDUSTRY
TEXT BY AMELIA EARL | PHOTOS BY LARRY ATIL
28 WORLD OF FIREPOWER

T
atiana Whitlock may describe
herself as a mom and a firearms
educator, but really she is a force
to be reckoned with. Hanging
up in her closet is her Shaolin Kempo black
belt. Besides being a badass, Whitlock also
runs her own personal training business
and is involved with a number of other
organizations in various capacities, including
being the COO at GAT Marketing and the
Director of Training at both Howell’s Indoor
Range & Gunshop and for the national
women’s organization, A Girl & A Gun. But
that’s not all. If you ever watch the Pursuit
Channel, you might catch her hosting the
“Trigger Time” TV show, and she also co-
hosts “The Weaponized Woman” on the Lock
N Load Radio show.

As Whitlock so aptly put it, “There’s no dust on


these shoes.”

So, dust off a chair and grab a seat. You’re


about to get up close and personal with one
of the hottest commodities in the firearms
industry today.

Firepower: When you


were growing up, what
were your goals?

Tatiana Whitlock: I’m the


family slacker. I've got 12 or 13 patents right
now and everybody else has about 200 apiece.
I really thought I would be in the thick of it in
the product design plastic world. I never saw
this coming. Everyone in my family, all of my
elders, are extremely creative and passionate Whitlock: I was 10 years old when didn’t have a goal of becoming an educator.
Whitlock’s interest
people who just immerse themselves in their my 5-year-old little brother was getting bullied in the martial And that’s what I really identify myself as—
arts resulted in
area of interest. That was the example that on the playground. He was getting roughed up an introduction an educator. Sharing my knowledge with
to firearms as a
was set for me growing up. They have changed every day so my grandmother decided to take means of self and people who are really interested in firearms
home protection.
career paths and pursued radically different action. To build his self-confidence, she signed themselves is a passion of mine. That’s been
fields because that’s where their passion led him up for some martial arts lessons. the thing that has driven me to learn more
them. That seems to be my story, too. and share what I know with those looking to
During his lessons, I would go and watch him learn.
If you asked me 10 years ago if I would with my mom. As a kid, I was excruciatingly shy,
be a professional gunslinger, I would think but one day I gathered the guts to whisper in Firepower: How has
you’re kidding. I’ve only been doing this my mom's ear, “I think I would really like to try your degree helped you
for seven years now. My son is 8 years old. this.” My mother just about fell off her chair. She grow your business?
Right before his first birthday I took my first signed me up immediately. At a very young age,
gun class. I never picked up a rifle before I fell in love with the martial arts. Whitlock: I received my degree in
that day, and now here we are. Now, 100% Fine Arts and majored in Industrial Design at
of my professional efforts are within the Firepower: What Rhode Island School of Design. Coming from an
firearms community. prompted you to start artistic background gave me an appreciation for
your own business? exceptionally well-made and well-engineered
Firepower: What As a 10-year-old,
Whitlock fell for
products. I’m a complete nerd when it
sparked your interest in Whitlock: I pursued firearms training the martial arts.
She was inspired
comes to product designs. Being able to be
self-defense? because I loved it. I loved being a student. I by watching her a contributor and not just a user has been a
brother train.
NOVEMBER-DECEMBER, 2018 29

“I needed to
know that
my abilities
were
correct and
not just
trendy. I
needed to
know that
I could
depend on
myself to
use this
tool called
the gun.”
very valuable asset in the firearms community.
I can take a concept and see how it would be
manufactured and brought to market, which
tends to help with critical decision-making
early on in the design process.

Firepower: Name a few


of the challenges you’ve
experienced running
your own business.

Whitlock: Learning the


entrepreneurial baseline for any new industry
is interesting. Offering products that are
training packages and courses means selecting
curriculums that are going to meet the needs
of the surrounding communities. I could write
a class that would be so much fun for me, but
it could relate to only 2% of the marketplace.

The challenges have been in really identifying


30 WORLD OF FIREPOWER

“I am a
complete
Nighthawk
custom
1911
groupie.”
what their needs are and what’s missing in protection?” There’s all these rules, and they
other training facilities and then creating a think, “What if I break one?” There’s a lot of What are
Whitlock’s goals
solution to that in the form of a training course. anxiety that can come up while learning this for her students?
Among other
new skill. items, she
teaches them
Firepower: When it how to respond
appropriately
comes to teaching So, being able to relate to the person and to in any given
firearms classes, be able to inherently trust that person because circumstance
and how to
women are certainly she’s another female makes such a big handle stressful
situations.
in the minority. Have difference. When you’re calmer, you perform
you encountered any better and learn faster.
challenges or unique
situations since you Firepower: More
entered this profession? and more women
are training. Do you
Whitlock: There are not many remember the first time
women who do the traveling road show, but you shot a gun? Describe
there’s lots of incredible women educators what it was like.
in our space. Women are also hailed as
the fastest growing demographic in the Whitlock: (laughs) Oh, yes! As a
firearms community. We’re still a fairly small teenager, I shot a .410 shotgun with my dad
percentage, but it’s a growing percentage. and brother. We had gone duck hunting in
Maine and were sitting in a frozen duck blind
Women are coming to the range because they eating crystallized peanut butter and jelly
have a need, they have a fear. Something sandwiches. That experience was delicious.
has prompted them to fear for their personal It wasn’t necessarily about the gun for me; it
safety, and they’d feel safer if they knew how to was about the experience and being out there
handle a firearm, if it were to ever come to that. with my heroes, my big brother and dad.

For many women, learning how to shoot The gun was just a prop and just a piece of it.
Whitlock says she
a firearm is a very personal and intimate The first time I got serious about a gun was at enjoys the mental
and physical
experience. They can be a little bit nervous. an NRA Women On Target Clinic in Berwick, precision that is
necessary to be
They’re unfamiliar with this foreign range base Maine. When I shot my first handgun, my grin safe and accurate
with a firearm.
and they start thinking, “I need eye and ear reached from ear-to-ear. Then when we got to
32 WORLD OF FIREPOWER

the rifles, my grin just about wrapped around


Whitlock has the
my head. I absolutely loved it. The experience rapt attention
of her students,
was very much like the martial arts to me, and which include men
and women of all
that was a space that was near and dear to

MEN VS. WOMEN


ages.
my heart. The mental and physical precision
that is necessary to be safe and accurate is
something I love.

Firepower: Clearly
FACTS ABOUT GUN OWNERS
your love for firearms o1. In the United States, around 62% of
had a substantial impact gun owners are male.

on you. Explain your


o2. On average, men are 19 years old
«
journey with firearms when they own their first gun. Women,
after the clinic ended. on the other hand, own their first gun, on
average, at the age of 27.

Whitlock: The first few years I was


studying firearms, I divested of my businesses
o3. A much larger percentage of women
cite protection as the only reason for Find Tatiana
and I started traveling and going all over the
country looking for people whose information
owning a gun.
On The Web
and minds were dazzling. I trained with Steve o4. Around 43% of women say they go LINKEDIN: WWW.LINKEDIN.COM/IN/TATIA-
to a gun range often or sometimes, while
Fisher and asked him who are the people 58% of men say the same.
NA-WHITLOCK-10407432/

he respects and who were the top trainers WEBSITE: TATIANAWHITLOCK.COM

he believes in. He listed Pat Rogers, Dave Facts From Pew Research Center
TWITTER: @TATIANAWHITLOCK
Spaulding and Dave Herrington. Then I went
to their classes and asked them the same
34 WORLD OF FIREPOWER

“The
challenges
[of running
a business]
have been
in really
identifying
what their
needs are
and what’s
missing
in other
training
facilities
and then
creating a To bolster her
questions, and the names they gave me by one gunsmith. These are truly high-

solution
education, expanded my quest. It was kind of a “follow performing works of art.
Whitlock has
traveled across the the bouncing ball” education for me, but it all
country to train centered around practical education. Also, I love anything that Agency Arms puts out.

to that in
with top names in
the industry. They’re another extremely intelligent company
I’m a single mother, and I live in a that’s constantly producing new intellectual

the form of multigenerational household. My older


parents live with me and my two little kids.
property and innovating within the gun space.
They are at the opposite end of the spectrum

a training If something happens, I would be the one


to defend our household. I needed to know
from Nighthawk, which is this classic 1911, and
then you have Agency Arms, which produces

course.” that my abilities to do that were correct


and not just trendy. I needed to know that
I could depend on myself to use this tool
this really contemporary aesthetic look with
some really high-functioning features.

called the gun. Firepower: Do you


recommend any guns, or
Firepower: I’m guessing calibers, that are better
«

you have a favorite gun for men versus women?


or two. Mind sharing
Whitlock: That’s one of those
Train
what they are?
million-dollar questions. The honest answer is
With Tatiana Whitlock: I definitely do! I just no, there aren’t any guns. There are firearms
PERSONAL TRAINING: TATIANAWHITLOCK.COM love my 1911s. I am a complete Nighthawk that are equally appropriate for men and
HOWELL’S INDOOR RANGE & GUN Custom 1911 groupie. I adore their women. It comes down to your level of
SHOP: HOWELLSGUNSHOP.COM
equipment. It comes from that fine, hand- physicality and your personal means and
A GIRL & A GUN WOMEN’S SHOOTING
LEAGUE: AGIRLANDAGUN.ORG crafted background. They have a philosophy budget. It comes down to the construction of
where one gun is started, made and finished your bones and span of your hand’s palm. You
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36 WORLD OF FIREPOWER

they asked really analytical questions. It’s one how to respond appropriately in any given
of those things that really depends upon the circumstance. It’s a very basic concept: Could
Female shooters individual and where they’re at. I save my life if I had to? We teach people
can relate to her,
says Whitlock, not just how to shoot, but also how to handle
because she
is female, and
that bond helps
Firepower: When people stressful situations.
students learn attend your shooting
better and faster.
classes, what will they Firepower: How do
leave having learned? you teach people
to cope with stress
Whitlock: I try to offer the programs management?
that I wish I would have had along the way.
I work with people to build the foundational Whitlock: There is this overused
skills for firearm manipulation and all of the term called stress inoculation. Basically, if your
essential skill sets, but we build them up in brain has never experienced the route it needs
the context of their potential use. to take to reach a conclusion when you’re
presented with a problem, then your brain
For example, when we are talking about doesn’t know where to go. That’s how you can
safety, we discuss safety at the range and become a deer in the headlights.
then we do a visualization about how that
same safety rule would apply at home. At the Part of what we do is we break down what
range, we tell you to always point the gun in a happens when that chemical starts affecting
safe direction. But what does that look like at the brain and teach stress management skills
home or in a Walmart parking lot? as we are teaching the drills, like breathing
Women may be a techniques. We teach how to be proactive and
small percentage
of all gun owners, We teach skillsets and concepts at the not reactive, because mistakes happen when
but Whitlock
says they are the range with repetitions and then introduce you are reactive. This is largely accomplished
fastest growing
demographic a lot of visualizations to try to bridge the by mental rehearsals and repetitions, which
within the
community. gap between range training and real-life helps to prevent you from freezing up in a
situations. The ultimate goal is to teach people stressful moment.

have to account for any previous injuries, too.

A gentleman I work with has wrist injuries


and plenty of little old ladies I work with have
arthritic hands. Finding the right firearm is
based on the needs of that individual. You
can’t just fit someone to a gun by saying “This
is a great women’s gun,” or “You look like a
hard-charging guy, take this Glock.”

Now, I wouldn’t put a little old lady with a


Desert Eagle, but it really comes down to
the right fit between an individual and the
spectrum of guns that are in the marketplace.

Firepower: Would
you say there is an
appropriate age for
youth who want to
begin training with
firearms?

Whitlock: I have worked with kids


who are 16 and have horrible emotional
maturity, which is necessary to be present
and safe on the range. Likewise, I’ve worked
with some 5 year olds who have been
exceptionally dialed-in and present a level
of maturity that is truly amazing. They were
self-confident, they knew not to rush and
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38 WORLD OF FIREPOWER
NOVEMBER-DECEMBER, 2018 39

Ride TEXT BY MIKE SEARSON | PHOTOS BY BEN DAVIS

the Wave
CHAMBERED IN 6.5 CREEDMOR, REMINGTON’S
700 PCR SCORES IN PERFORMANCE,
AFFORDABILITY
40 WORLD OF FIREPOWER

“The X-Mark has virtually


no creep and ‘breaks-
like-glass.’ The factory
setting is 3.5 pounds, so
you can take it down to
about 2 and go as high up
as 5 pounds.”
NOVEMBER-DECEMBER, 2018 41

«
A
new trend in precision rifles has
been blooming over the past
few years: the chassis stock.
Remington
Rather than using a bolt-action Model 700 PCR Specs
rifle with a traditional hunting-type stock, CALIBER: 6.5 CREEDMOOR
next-level shooters have been utilizing these MAGAZINE CAPACITY: 5

lightweight aluminum stocks that feature BARREL LENGTH: 24 INCHES


Bowers VERS-30T TWIST (RIGHT HAND): 1 IN 8
a vertical pistol grip more often associated proved to be a ver- OVERALL LENGTH: 44 INCHES
satile, rugged and
with their semi-automatic counterparts. quiet suppressor. LENGTH OF PULL: 13.25-15.25 INCHES
DROP (COMB): 0.25 – 1 INCH

In January 2018 at the annual Shooting DROP (HEEL): 0.25 – 1.75 INCHES
BARREL MATERIAL: CARBON STEEL
Hunting and Outdoor Trade (SHOT) Show
BARREL FINISH: MATTE BLUE
in Las Vegas, Nevada, Remington unveiled BARREL THREADS: 5/8 X 24 INCHES
their version of the chassis rifle: the TRIGGER: REMINGTON X-MARK PRO
(ADJUSTABLE)
Remington 700 PCR (Precision Chassis Rifle).
STOCK TYPE: MAGPUL PRS GEN 3
When they asked us if we wanted to demo STOCK MATERIAL: POLYMER
the rifle, we could not answer fast enough! STOCK FINISH: MATTE BLACK
AVERAGE WEIGHT: 10.5 POUNDS

The rifle was chambered in 6.5 Creedmoor. MSRP: $1,199


In case you have been living under a rock
for the past decade, this round is becoming
the king of long-range shooting. We were
slow to get on the bandwagon, but the distinctive look. Personally, I find Key Mod
round is breaking and setting new world and Square Drop easier to work with for
records for accuracy and distance almost installing and removing accessories. There
every other week. is nothing wrong with M-LOK; I just find
these other two systems a bit more user-
Let’s now take a look at this rifle. friendly for attaching lights, bipods, sling
swivels and other necessities.
The Build
At first glance, the forend appears to be Key For a stock, Remington wisely chose the
Mod, but in actuality the teardrop-shaped Magpul PRS Gen 3 stock. I have been using
holes are what is known as Square Drop. a first-generation model of one of these
This was a system developed by Advanced stocks on a precision AR for almost a decade
Armament Corporation (AAC), a division of and have nothing but praise for it. The
Remington a few years back. It is completely cheek piece height and length of pull are
compatible with Key Mod, but it has its own completely adjustable should you need to
42 WORLD OF FIREPOWER

change shooting positions.

The pistol grip is a standard Magpul MOE


type which works well for testing, but the
beauty of the chassis is that you can swap
out to another grip if you prefer.

The knob on the bolt handle is threaded to


give the shooter the option of changing this
out at a later date. This is not something
that I would have thought of, but I am glad
that Remington went this route, as having
a gunsmith cut, thread and replace a bolt
handle is easily a $125 job.

Moving down to one of the most critical


components on a precision rifle, we come
to the Remington X-Mark Pro trigger. This
is a factory precision trigger that has been
shipping on most 700 models for nearly a
decade. The X-Mark has virtually no creep
and “breaks-like-glass.” There is an external
adjustment for trigger-pull weight with a
2-pound range of adjustment. The factory We tested the
Remington PCR
setting is 3.5 pounds, so you can take it with the essentials,
such as an
down to about 2 and go as high up as 5 excellent bipod by
Accu-Tac, Leupold
pounds. scope and a
Bowers suppressor.
A dedicated
shooter can take
Accessories this further by
changing the pistol
Despite these custom features, you still grip or bolt handle
with a few turns of
need to add a few things to the Remington a wrench.
PCR in order to shoot it.
NOVEMBER-DECEMBER, 2018 43

100 YARDS

MANUFACTURER AMMUNITION GROUP AVG. RANGE

BARNES PRECISION MATCH AMMUNITION 140-GRAIN OPEN TIP 1.375 1.1 TO 1.45 INCHES

300 YARDS

MANUFACTURER AMMUNITION GROUP AVG. RANGE

BARNES PRECISION MATCH AMMUNITION 140-GRAIN OPEN TIP 3.19 2.85 TO 3.53 INCHES

600 YARDS

MANUFACTURER AMMUNITION GROUP AVG. RANGE

BARNES PRECISION MATCH AMMUNITION 140-GRAIN OPEN TIP 5.49 4.38 TO 6.62 INCHES

NOTE: Feet per second recorded by an RCBS chronograph using a five-shot average.
44
«
WORLD OF FIREPOWER

The VERS 30T is a titanium-tubed silencer as well as the fact that the bolt-action HEADED
finished in matte black Cerakote. The design is closed off and prevents any gas FOR
internals are based on the long-standing
(and high-performing) Bowers baffle stack.
leakage that might be encountered with a
semi-auto.
THE BIG TIME
Also adopted from the venerable VERS line If you are still under the impression that 6.5
Creedmoor is a flash-in-the-pan Wildcat that
of silencers is the VersAdapt insert system, At the Range will be obsolete in five years, consider the
which brings the reliability and consistency For testing, we used a variety of following:
of a direct-thread system but the versatility ammunition types by Remington and
In October 2017, U.S. SOCOM (Special Oper-
of an ability to change thread pitch. In this Barnes. By far the best performer was
ations Command) tested the performance
instance, we ran it direct thread. Barnes Precision Match Ammunition 6.5 of 7.62×51mm NATO, 260 Remington, and
Creedmoor 140-grain Open Tip. We clocked 6.5 Creedmoor cartridges out of SR-25,
Direct-thread mounting is typically the way it at 2,717.5 fps using our RCBS chronograph M110A1, and Mk 20 sniper rifles.

most long-range precision shooters mount and taking a 5-shot average.


SOCOM determined that 6.5 Creedmoor
their silencers. The primary advantages of performed the best, doubling hit probability
direct-thread suppressors are simplicity, Our four 5-shot groups at 100 yards at 1,000 yards, increasing efective range
by nearly half, reducing wind drift by a
increased accuracy and more repeatable measured 1.1 inch to 1.45 inches. That
third and having less recoil than 7.62×51mm
point-of-impact shifts. The primary may sound underwhelming at first, but the NATO rounds.
disadvantage of direct-thread suppressors is beauty of 6.5 Creedmoor is that the groups
that they can tend to come unscrewed on get relatively tighter at greater distances. Because the two cartridges have similar
dimensions, the same magazines can be
their own if you're doing a lot of shooting.
used, and a rifle can be converted with
This is more often when used with a rapid- Moving out to 300 yards we knew we had a simple barrel change. This led to its
fire weapon as opposed to a bolt-action rifle to account for about a 12-inch drop, and adoption and fielding by special operations
or single-shot rifle. the rifle shot true to point of aim. The two While AAC's Square snipers to replace the 7.62×51mm NATO
Drop rail system cartridge in their semi-automatic sniper
5-shot groups measured 2.85 inches and resembles Key
rifles, planned by early 2019.
Mod and is fully
The Vers 30T is quiet, due to its construction, 3.53 inches, respectively. compatible, it has
a bolder and more
distinctive look.

“ … the Remington 700


PCR is still the lowest-
priced factory chassis
rifle available.”
46 WORLD OF FIREPOWER

“ … the beauty of
par the chassis is that
with just hitting the steel on that one on our
shooting day. you can swap out to
At 600 yards, our drop was estimated to be another pistol grip if
almost 90 inches. That is 7 feet, 5 inches,
if you want to get a more realistic idea by
stepping outside mils, MOA, etc., for a few
you prefer.”
seconds. Our first group was a few inches

«
higher than we anticipated. This might have
been due to the haze from the wildfire smoke
creating mirage, the 600-yard walk back from
our target in the smoky air, or it could be that Performance Pleaser
we are not the excellent long-range shooters With performance like this, the Remington Contact
we once thought ourselves to be. 700 PCR is still one of the lowest-priced
factory chassis rifles available. Many times,
Information
REMINGTON:
Our first group was 6.62 inches, but the an aftermarket stock will cost as much REMINGTONOUTDOORCOMPANY.COM

second one shrank down to 4.38 inches as this rifle itself costs. While we were BARNES BULLETS:
BARNESBULLETS.COM
after we took a 10-minute break. That last very pleased with the rifle’s performance, ACCU-TAC:
group represents a .73-inch MOA, which we are sure that a better shooter could ACCU-TAC.COM

was much better than our initial groups at achieve better results than we were able to
100 yards. accomplish.
48 WORLD OF FIREPOWER

A shooter locks onto a target with FLIR’s PTS233.


NOVEMBER-DECEMBER, 2018 49

New
Age
THERMAL OPTICS ARE TURNING
UP THE HEAT ON THE SHOOTING
MARKET
TEXT BY BRAD FITZPATRICK | PHOTOS BY BRAD FITZPATRICK AND THE MANUFACTURERS
50 WORLD OF FIREPOWER

a special lens that focuses infrared light would have cost tens of thousands of
and sends the image to a detector in the dollars.
unit. The thermal detector then creates an
image based on the infrared light called a High-tech thermal imaging is available—and
thermogram, and that is turned into electric affordable—to more hunters and shooters
impulses that are sent to a processing than ever before.
unit, which is then transitioned by a signal
processing unit onto the display. Advantages Over Night
Vision
The whole process seems lengthy and Thermal also has distinct advantages
cumbersome, but in reality the image over night vision. For one thing, thermal
appears a fraction of a second after the lens imaging doesn’t require any ambient light
picks up the thermal energy. This technology at all, whereas night vision doesn’t work in
was so advanced (and expensive) that absolute darkness.
military and law enforcement agencies were
the only practical customers for advanced Additionally, and perhaps most importantly,
thermal imaging technology for quite some thermal detects heat even if the object is
time. Today, however, that has all changed. still or partially obscured by brush or leaves.
With night vision, an attacker or animal

I’
ve taken several courses at the Gunsite Here’s a view As cores have become more affordable and that is partially hidden behind brush can go
through one of
Academy in Arizona, but this particular FLIR’s thermal smaller, handheld thermals and thermal undetected if it doesn’t move. Even a living
optics.
shoot was like nothing else I’d ever l l bl b l l b h f f d h d
experienced. Instead of shooting in a
traditional range with established targets, I was
working my way down a twisted, steep-walled
canyon that the team at Gunsite calls the Donga.

The course follows a dried-up riverbed, and


it includes several twists and turns that
conceal objects until you are very close. I
turned one corner and, through my thermal
scope, I saw a coyote. I pressed the trigger
of the Ruger rifle and heard the distinct ping
of steel.

“Hit.”

The coyote was not, of course, a real


coyote (they don’t come with steel plates
affixed to them as far as I know) but rather
a specialized target that, when tilted up
toward the sun, heat up to mimic live
animals through thermal. The reason that
this course even exists is because so many
shooters are now switching to thermal
optics and a group of gun writers had
gathered to test FLIR’s newest thermal
imaging equipment.
The Scout III is the
next generation
And scopes are far from the only thermal of FLIR’s compact
thermal monoc-
option. From helmet-mounted cameras to ulars for outdoor
recreation.
handhelds to rifle (and helicopter) mounted
optics, thermal imaging is changing hunting,
defensive shooting and combat.
affordable—to more
How Thermal Works
Thermal imaging seems high-tech, and hunters and shooters
indeed it is. To obtain clear images even in
low-light conditions, a thermal imager uses than ever before.”
NOVEMBER-DECEMBER, 2018 51

«
of the reasons that thermal has become

PULSAR HELION
so popular for search-and-rescue missions.
A person who is lost in a wilderness area
can be found even if they are obscured
by brush and unconscious. It’s also one of
the primary reasons law enforcement and
Besides hunting,
military professionals add a thermal unit the author (right)
uses thermal for
to their helmet or riflescope. An enemy or personal and home
criminal can hide, but they can’t hide their defense. Here,
he uses Pulsar's
heat signature. Helion.

Why Thermal Works for


Shooters
It’s no exaggeration to say that I use a thermal
monocular every day. If I do nothing else
with a thermal unit, I always scan around
the perimeter of my house and my farm The Pulsar Helion is a class-leading thermal optic that provides eight color palettes and incredible
before turning in for the night. My wife calls resolution thanks to 640x480 pixel sensor resolution. The XP38 comes with a 38mm objective focus
it “FLIRing,” the first time to my knowledge and 1.9-15.2 zoom. The larger XP50 has a 50mm objective focus and 2.5-20x zoom capabilities, and
both models ofer interchangeable lenses.
that the acronym Forward Looking Infrared has
ever been turned into a verb. The visible range on the XP38 is up to 1,350 meters (or roughly 1,500 yards), and the XP50 allows you
to see objects up to 1,800 meters/2,000 yards.
In my mind, a thermal is an absolute
There are more than a half-dozen diferent color palette options, and the controls are simple to oper-
necessity for personal and home defense. ate even in the field in total darkness.
With units costing as low as $600 (or $200 if
MSRP: $2,500-$4,000
you convert your phone to a thermal imager WEB: PULSAR-NV.COM
with FLIR ONE technology) there’s no reason
why your personal defense kit doesn’t
52 WORLD OF FIREPOWER

me forever leery of shooting without first


shouting that the range is hot, and also
using a thermal to scan the woods to be
certain that no one has wandered into the
trees downrange.

The odds that anyone would ever ignore the


range command and somehow wander onto it
unseen are low, but there’s also the possibility,
however remote, that someone might not
hear the verbal command (or not understand
what “the range is hot” means) and wander
out in the area where we are shooting.

Is it overkill? Yes. There’s a backstop directly


behind my targets and a clear line of sight in
both directions. But I don’t take any chances.

I also use my thermal when varmint hunting


at night. To my mind, it’s the easiest way to
The author was spot an approaching coyote or fox without
one of several
writers who had having to resort to a powerful white light.
the chance to
test FLIR’s newest Even colored lenses alert the wariest
thermal imaging
equipment at varmints to your location. Thermal is much
Gunsite.
more effective.

«
FLIR
PTS223 SCOPE

The FLIR PTS223 is one of the leading thermal scopes on the market. At
its heart is the company’s industry-leading Boson core, which is lighter
include a thermal camera. Unfortunately, efficiency, I’ve even used the thermal to determine
and more durable than any previous model available. The PTS223 is
we’ve learned in recent years that certain where my house is losing heat in the winter. loaded with features, including recoil-operated video recording, so you
events like riots and natural disasters bring can review the shot afterwards—a valuable asset when determining shot
opportunists into the streets. In those cases, But there are also numerous shooting- placement.

a thermal is your best defense because specific applications. For one, I use a The 12-degree-by-9.5-degree field of view ofers excellent situational
it turns night into day and dramatically thermal to scan the perimeter of my awareness, and the unit comes with a 1.5 optical zoom and 2x and 4x
increases situational awareness. range before I shoot. My personal range zoom. There are several reticle and color palette options. The internal
memory holds up to 2.5 hours of video and 1,000 still images.
is situated along a river and canoeists and
I could also list a dozen other uses for my kayakers who stop for a mid-trip break or The PTS223 has a rugged black aluminum housing and fits securely to
thermal imaging gear that isn’t specifically lunch have a tendency to wander onto our most rail-equipped rifles. It’s a great option in weapon-mounted thermal
related to shooting, everything from wildlife property—and directly onto my wooded scopes.

viewing to livestock care (thermals allow you range that’s situated several hundred MSRP: $599
to see “hot spots” on horses and cattle, sources yards from the edge of the water. Having WEB: CARACALUSA.COM

on inflammation that could lead to lameness) to found one couple standing on the water’s
keeping vermin out of the garden. To improve edge as I was getting ready to shoot made
BUILT TO
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SKB waterproof iSeries cases are built to military spec


and feature a virtually indestructible construction that’s
lighter and stronger than the competition. With over 50
sizes and many interior options to choose from, you can
bet that if you’ve got something worth protecting we’ve
got a case for the job.

skbcases.com
54 WORLD OF FIREPOWER

FLIR
FLIR SCOUT

The afordable Scout TK packs a number of

«
high-tech features into one light, compact pack-
age. It features a built-in 640x480 LCD display
and allows you to see objects up to 100 yards

LEUPOLD LTO TRACKER


away, perfect for scanning for intruders around
your property.

An IP-67 rating means it can survive being


submersed; despite its low-price tag, the Scout
TK comes with eight separate color palettes for
optimum viewing. It even features still and vid-
eo recording options. The 6-inch long, 6-ounce Thermal has uses
Scout is one of the lightest and most portable beyond hunting.
The heat signature
thermal monoculars on the market today. is visible even if the
object is hidden.
Therefore, it has
MSRP: $599 become popular
WEB: FLIR.COM for search-and-
rescue missions.
Pictured above
right is FLIR's
PTS536.

The rise in the number of thermal optics for


rifles is directly related to hunting. Varmint
hunters were early adopters of these optics,
but perhaps the most dedicated thermal optic
hunters are those who chase hogs. In areas
where hunting pressure is high, hogs are mor
inclined to feed at night. I saw this firsthand
in a flooded rice field in eastern Texas. By
day, the rice farm was quiet and still. When
darkness fell, however, sounders of hogs— This handheld thermal unit will fit in your pocket (it’s not designed to be mounted on a firearm) and
some numbering in the dozens—entered the can identify objects out to 600 yards, thanks to a 206x256 thermal sensor with 240x204 px. The LTO
fields from surrounding forests and decimated Tracker has six diferent color palettes and functions in temperatures ranging from -4 degrees to 140
Fahrenheit.
the crop. In total darkness, you could hear the
pigs sloshing and squealing and stripping rice The startup time for the Leupold is less than 3 seconds, and the CR123 battery is good for 10 hours
away from the plants. Those pigs had been of continuous use. This lightweight, compact thermal is perfectly sized to fit in the pocket of a vest or
hunting coat and it is durable enough to withstand tough conditions.
persecuted by the farmer enough that they
bailed out of the fields as soon as white light MSRP: $909.99
WEB: LEUPOLD.COM
appeared. With a thermal scope, though, the
nature of that pig hunt changed. It offered a
solution to a very real problem for farmers.
• Easy
free
float
install!
• 4140 heat treated bar-
rel nut, with barrel nut
and wrench included
• Features our patented
4140 heat treated
torque plate
• 6061 aluminum type 3
hard coat anodized
• Features two integral anti-rotation
QD sling sockets
• Four-sided MIL-STD 1913 picatinny
rails, with continuous top rail
• 2.43 inches tall, 2.15 inches wide, 1.3
inches inside diameter
• Cut for KAC Rib Panels, fully dehorned and deburred
• Optional Titanium Barrel Nut and Titanium Clamp
Screws available for purchase
• 100% Made in U.S.A. with MI lifetime warranty
IMPORTANT COMPATIBILITY NOTES: Due to the many different dimen-
sions in BILLET UPPER RECEIVERS on the market, please contact your billet
upper receiver manufacture to ensure fit of this handguard. This hand-
guard is compatible with forged upper receivers as well as the Midwest
Industries billet upper receiver. NOT FOR USE ON GAS PISTON AR’s!

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W292S4498 Hillside Rd, Waukesha, WI 53189 ◆ Tel: 262-896-6780, Fax: 262-896-6756 ◆ www.midwestindustriesinc.com
56 WORLD OF FIREPOWER

Ready for battle, the


Mossberg 590M is
shown with 51 rounds
of Hornady American
Gunner Reduced-Recoil
00 Buckshot on tap.
NOVEMBER-DECEMBER, 2018 57

Beyond
20/20
FLIR’S THERMOSIGHT PRO SERIES
PTS223 FEATURES HIGH-END
TECHNOLOGY, DELIVERS HIGH
PERFORMANCE
TEXT BY DREW PRUHS | PHOTOS COURTESY OF FLIR
58 WORLD OF FIREPOWER

I
am a bit of a Luddite when it comes to project, FLIR promptly shipped a ThermoSight goggles. This makes the ThermoSight Pro a
FLIR’s ThermoSight
technology. I’m also intrigued by the look Pro Series features Pro Series PTS223 weapon sight, which viable force multiplier in daylight, low light or
a durable aluminum
and utility of FLIR (forward looking infrared) alloy that can happens to be the smallest in the Thermal total darkness.
and a fan of how it is used in the real world. withstand drops in Imaging Weapons Sight Pro series.
the field.
You can understand why I was anxious to try
Working in law enforcement, I get to see and First Look the product.
benefit from FLIR in the field, usually obtained Getting to the heart of the matter, the
from a helicopter. Knowing that someone is ThermoSight Pro makes images from heat, The unpackaging revealed a Pelican-style box
checking the area from above with FLIR gives not light. This allows the optic to help you which serves as a permanent, heavy-duty
me some reassurance because I know the “see” clearly without any visible light, as home for the ThermoSight Pro when it’s not
observer is able to clear an area or simply well as reveal camouflaged people, animals mounted to a rifle. Besides the ThermoSight,
keep an eye out for anything out of the or objects where their heat contrast can be the case contained a very handy quick start
ordinary. discerned. Using the ThermoSight Pro you guide, a more in-depth user manual, two
can see people, objects or animals in difficult CR123A batteries, a battery caddy, a USB
When the opportunity was presented to terrain in reduced visibility, see through cable and a keychain 3-inch lens cloth. The
use and review a handheld, or in this case smoke, dust or fog, see camouflage in any batteries and quick start guide are enough
weapon-mounted, FLIR device, I jumped at lighting condition, and see more and farther to get you up and running, so I started with
the chance. When they green-lighted the than would be possible with night vision those. I only went to the manual once I had a
60 WORLD OF FIREPOWER

“ …the
ThermoSight Pro
has internal
memory that
allows the user
to record up to 2
1/2 hours of video
or take up to
1,000 pictures.”
T
ATIONS
DETECTOR TYPE: 320 X 256 VOX
«
SIZE (LXWXH): 8.7 INCHES, 2.7 INCHES,
3.3 INCHES
WEIGHT: 1.44 POUNDS
MICROBOLOMETER
DIGITAL ZOOM: 2X, 4X ZOOM: 1X, 2X, 4X

EYE RELIEF: 45MM BORESIGHT ADJUSTMENT TYPE:


DIGITALLY CONTROLLED
FIELD OF VIEW: 12 DEGREES X 9.5
DEGREES COLOR (HOUSING): BLACK
directional arrows and a FOCUS RANGE: 10M TO INFINITY (NOT LENS SYSTEM: 19MM; F/1.0
FOCUSABLE) RETICLE TYPE: CROSS, CROSSHAIR,
The ThermoSight Pro has an integrated quick- central button. Options CROSSDASH AND NO RETICLE
IMAGE PROCESSING: FLIR PROPRIETARY
detach rail mount. Once securely on my rifle, include brightness control, DIGITAL DETAIL ENHANCEMENT WEAPON MOUNT TYPE: PICATINNY,
MIL-STD 1913, WEAVER RAILS
zeroing the optic was a simple matter thanks scrolling through the color INTERNAL MEMORY: UP TO 2.5 HOURS
OF RECORDED VIDEO OR UP TO 1,000
to the simple layout and intuitive controls. palette, zoom, UCMNUC/ PICTURES $2,199
The optic also has the lens cover and battery FCC (User-Controlled Manual OPERATING TEMPERATURE: -4 F TO +122 F WEB: FLIR.COM
cap dummy-corded so the entire unit is self- Non-Uniformity Correction/
contained. Flat-Field Correction), reticle
on/off, reticle pattern control, of objects that are heated, similar to an iron
Power On snapshot, record video and The heat shield
on top of the
in the fire. Sepia only uses three colors and
Once I powered up the ThermoSight by a main menu option. To be barrel separates the displays heat intensity from black to yellow.
operator from the
means of its Turn-Pull switch, I was quickly frank, some of this was more than I could hot barrel after 20 Arctic sharply displays objects with a higher
rounds of 12-gauge
able to use its intuitive controls. The on/off immediately appreciate, but some time on ammunition have temperature difference, and finally Outdoor
been fired in rapid
switch offers a standby option that allows the ThermoSight helped me appreciate the succession. Alert combines the life-like detail of Black Hot
the user to activate and deactivate the unit many options built into it. with easy-to-spot bright targets highlighted
using a remote. There is a diopter adjustment in dark red to bright yellow. It assumes the
that allows you to adjust for optimum image The standout feature, of course, is the thermal target is hotter than its surroundings.
sharpness in the eyepiece. The total diopter image. While looking through the eyepiece,
adjustment range is covered with two turns of you will see that the screen delivers brilliant, My personal favorite option was Outdoor
the ring. There’s also a lens focus adjustment high quality, clean thermal imagery. The Alert, as it was the most intuitive and had my
ring on the objective lens. This allows for ThermoSight Pro offers seven different color subjects stand out in an obvious way. Mind
obtaining the sharpest view of the scene. The options that allow you to work in low contrast you, I was primarily working either in a
total focus range is covered with a three- daylight, total darkness and everything in structure or at night. It also didn’t hurt that
quarter turn of the lens. between. the image made it look like I had Predator
vision. When working outside, I would have to
The ThermoSight Pro is available in White Hot is probably the one with which switch to White Hot because there was not as
different versions with options for optical you are most familiar and is good for scenes much color when everything is warmer.
magnification from 1.5x to 6x. It also allows with high or low contrast. Black Hot makes
for a 4x digital zoom. the scenes appear more lifelike, especially at Regarding the reticle, there are six options
night. Rainbow HC is a multi-color thermal each available in four colors. There’s a four
The control panel is immediately accessible that displays the temperature of objects in a MOA dot, something that will be familiar to
on the top of the unit. It is comprised wide color range. Ironbow simulates the glow fans of red dot optics. There’s a Line Dot, with
62 WORLD OF FIREPOWER

“It also
didn’t hurt
that the
image made
it look
like I had
Predator
vision.”
a dot set in the middle of a broken horizontal operated manually or operated remotely using in a robust package, it is packed with versatile
With the double-
line. The Cross Center Dot is a broken crosshair the included USB cable. The uncompressed stack magazine features allowing for customizable viewing
located at the
with a dot in the middle. The Cross is a simple video signal is paired with a high-definition center of the and user options.
shotgun, between
“plus sign” option. The Crosshair is a “typical” display for better detection and classification the shoulder and
support hand,
old school scope crosshair that is immediately in the field. This allows for a versatile and balance is not a It has a ton of well-executed features, which
useable. Finally, there’s the Crossdash, which customizable viewing experience. problem. means that you can tailor it to your specific
is a Mil-dot type design. As mentioned, each mission. Advanced enough to be highly
reticle can be made to be black, white, red or Tactical Review versatile while being intuitive enough to simply
cyan. In short, the ThermoPro features a very I was also able to experiment with the pick up and use, the ThermoSight Pro Series
useable reticle option for just about everyone ThermoSight Pro in tactical training. Ambient PTS223 is an absolute force multiplier and a
FLIR’s ThermoSight
regardless of background or experience. light was not an issue, so I had an immediate PTS233 Pro Series window into the future of firearm optics.
advantage when in a low-light environment thermal core
creates outstanding
Performance Assessment I was quickly able to recogn imagery for better
detection and
The ThermoSight Pro boasts multiple features and discern role players in t classification—day
or night—and the
packed into a compact housing. While heavier allowed me to address them author said it has
a “ton of well-
than a typical red dot optic, it is still light and most importantly—whe executed features”
so you can tailor
enough to be practical when mounted on attempting to conceal them it to your specific
mission.
a rifle. When looking through the eyepiece, up into a tight space. The co
the HUD (heads-up display) shows 10 pieces team was that having one T
of real time information for feedback. There the stack gives us an additio
is the reticle, a shot counter, digital zoom, advantage when searching
rifle profile, current color palette, digital
inclinometer, battery status, compass cardinal Regarding a non-tactical en
direction, compass degrees and a record the benefit of working in th
indicator. From a practical side, you have all able to use the ThermoSigh
the info you need in the moment— more areas where we have the o
than you’d first expect, and some that you’ll other wildlife. More than an
be glad you had after the mission. to locate small animals that
seen otherwise. The therma
The ThermoSight Pro’s advanced image detection easy and allows y
processing is built using the new FLIR Boson your time in recognizing an
thermal core. The bright, high-definition display you have in front of you.
allows for absolute clarity. In addition to the
electronic displays, the ThermoSight Pro has Overall Though
internal memory that allows the user to record The ThermoSight Pro Series
up to 2 1/2 hours of video or take up to 1,000 sight is an amazing piece o
pictures. The video can be shot-activated, Bringing high-end technolo
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64 WORLD OF FIREPOWER
NOVEMBER-DECEMBER, 2018 65

Going
Hot
MULTIPLY THE FUN FACTOR WITH
A THERMAL IMAGING RIFLESCOPE
TEXT BY BOB CAMPBELL
PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE MANUFACTURERS

O
K, we’re guilty. We’re about to state the obvious, but
how can we avoid it with this topic? Thermal imaging
riflescopes are just plain cool.

If you haven’t seen them (somehow), you don’t know


what you’re missing. If you’re new to them, seize this opportunity to
catch up on some of the hottest thermal imaging scopes out there. On
the other hand, if you’re an old pro, catch up on the latest and greatest.

Most everyone knows that they have been in use for some time
by the military. In fact, they were used as early as World War II.
Thermal imaging scopes combine the fields of optics and advanced
electronics, and the end result is that they slice right through smoke,
fog and darkness to let you see what’s out there.

But enough of that. Let’s cut to the chase. Enjoy the high-tech life.
66 WORLD OF FIREPOWER

Pulsar
Core FXQ50
OVERVIEW
The Core FXQ50 may not be a full-size
thermal optic, but it is the ideal alternative
to one. The Core ofers a quick-release and
a reliable return to zero feature that places
simple thermal imaging control at the
operator’s fingertips without compromising
accuracy or shooting styles. A detachable
eyepiece provides rapid transitions from
the thermal riflescope attachment to mon-
ocular. The Core allows you to keep using
your riflescope’s variable magnification
and also provides eye relief. The green
AMOLED screen reduces eye fatigue and
works to enhance the image quality.

SPECS & FEATURES


OPTICAL MAGNIFICATION: 4.1X
DIGITAL MAGNIFICATION: 2X
LENS: 40-56MM
BASE FIELD OF VIEW: 13.1°
BODY MATERIAL: ROBUST COMPOSITE
RECOIL RATING: UP TO .375-CAL.

MSRP: $4,499.97
WEB: PULSARNV.COM

ARMASIGHT
by FLIR
Zeus 336
OVERVIEW
This line of optics is based on the nationally
recognized FLIR Tau 2 Vox microbolometer
core. While police and law enforcement
may use this optic, a committed predator
hunter will also find it useful. While primar-
ily a riflescope, the piece is also useful as
a spotting scope and handheld imager. The
Zeus features a long-wave infrared (LWIR)
construction and is equally useful for day
or night use. Since the Zeus emits no visi-
ble light, your position stays covert. Smoke
and haze are no impediment to accurate
shooting. The Zeus scopes are among
the smallest and lightest thermal imaging
scopes in their class, with layered features
and direct-button adjustment.

SPECS & FEATURES


OPTICAL MAGNIFICATION: 3X (3-12X50);
5X (5-20X75)
DIGITAL MAGNIFICATION: 1X, 2X, 4X
LENS: 75MM
BASE FIELD OF VIEW: 7.8° X 5.9°
BODY MATERIAL: HARDENED ALUMINUM
ALLOY
RECOIL RATING: 700G

MSRP: $3,495
WEB: ARMASIGHT.COM
NOVEMBER-DECEMBER, 2018 67

ATN
ThOR
4.5-18x
OVERVIEW
ATN’s latest advanc
through has improv
image quality you ha
this California-based
The scope may just
Their innovative core
up to 16 hours of con
new integrated intern
You’ll remain target-re
Calculator feature on
18x, which weighs 2.2
range and incline are c
scope makes instant c
reticle’s point of impac
manager feature saves
the “zero” in a profile, e
rifles or distances.

SPECS & FEATURES


OPTICAL MAGNIFICATION
DIGITAL MAGNIFICATION
LENS: 50MM
BASE FIELD OF VIEW: 6° X
BODY MATERIAL: HARDE
ALLOY
RECOIL RATING: 375HH, .4

MSRP: $3,199
WEB: ATNCORP.COM

FLIR
ThermoSight
Pro PTS536
OVERVIEW
The FLIR ThermoSight Pro Series packs
greater levels of performance and
functionality into a compact and lightweight
housing.
Onboard recording allows for the internal
storage of up to two hours of video or 1,000
JPEG images. All FLIR ThermoSight Pro
models also feature a digital compass and
inclinometer.

SPECS & FEATURES


OPTICAL MAGNIFICATION: 4X
DIGITAL MAGNIFICATION: 2X, 4X
LENS: 50MM
BASE FIELD OF VIEW: 4.5° X 3.5°
BODY MATERIAL: ALUMINUM ALLOY
RECOIL RATING: 7.62X51MM NATO (.308)

MSRP: PRO SERIES STARTS AT $2,199


WEB: FLIR.COM
68 WORLD OF FIREPOWER

ARMASIGHT
by FLIR
Predator 336
OVERVIEW
The Predator is a solid-state, uncooled, long-
wave infrared (LWIR), magnified dedicated
weapon scope intended for day and night
engagements without the need to remove
the sight from the rifle. The 24/7 mission
capability is just one of its many strengths.
Thermal imaging technology also allows you
to detect targets by cutting through snow,
dust, smoke, fog, haze and other atmospher-
ic obscurants. Unlike the use of laser target-
ing or near-infrared illumination to augment
Night Vision equipment, the Predator thermal
imaging weapon sight, which has a display
of 640x480, is extremely difficult to detect
with other devices, as it emits no visible light
or RF energy.

SPECS & FEATURES


OPTICAL MAGNIFICATION: 1.6X
DIGITAL MAGNIFICATION: 1X, 2X, 4X
LENS: 25MM, F/1.0
BASE FIELD OF VIEW: 13° X 10°
BODY MATERIAL: CNC MACHINED
AIRCRAFT-ALUMINUM ALLOY
CONSTRUCTION
RECOIL RATING: 700G

MSRP: $1,949
WEB: ARMASIGHT.COM

FLIR
ThermoSight
Pro PTS233
OVERVIEW
Available in three configurations, the FLIR
ThermoSight Pro Series delivers smaller,
lighter optics with increased image
performance and range. Featuring on-chip
video processing and an uncompressed
video signal fed directly to a high-definition
1280x960 display, the FLIR ThermoSight Pro
Series ofers improved object detection and
classification in the field and clean thermal
imagery in any light—from low-contrast
daylight to total darkness—or through smoke,
haze and light fog.
Each FLIR ThermoSight Pro ofers 320x256
thermal resolution, Bluetooth 4.0 and USB-C
connectivity, and user-controlled imaging
palettes and image enhancement filters.

SPECS & FEATURES


OPTICAL MAGNIFICATION: 1.5X
DIGITAL MAGNIFICATION: 2X, 4X
LENS: 19MM
BASE FIELD OF VIEW: 12° X 9.5°
BODY MATERIAL: ALUMINUM ALLOY
RECOIL RATING: 7.62X51MM NATO (.308)

MSRP: PRO SERIES STARTS AT $2,199


WEB: FLIR.COM
NOVEMBER-DECEMBER, 2018 69

ATN Corp.
ThOR 4 640
4-40x
OVERVIEW
Sighting with the THOR 4 640 4-40x
with the unit’s One Shot Zero featur
a shot, adjust your reticle, and you’r
to go. The Ballistic Calculator featur
designed to keep you target-ready.
speed, range and incline are all calc
and the scope instantaneously make
rections to the reticle’s point of impa
the profile manager feature will save
ballistic settings and the “zero” in a p
even when switching rifles or distanc
The new THOR 4 640 4-40x is desig
ofer the image quality you want, the
capabilities you need. This optic ofe
superior value with its New Generati
Thermal Sensor and Dual Core Proce
technology.

SPECS & FEATURES


OPTICAL MAGNIFICATION: 4X
DIGITAL MAGNIFICATION: 40X
LENS: 75MM
BASE FIELD OF VIEW: 8.3° X 6.2°
BODY MATERIAL: AIRCRAFT ALUMIN
WITH CLASS 3 HARD-ANODIZED
COATING
RECOIL RATING: 375HH, .416

MSRP: PRICE $4,799


WEB: ATNCORP.COM

Trijic
Elec
Optic
IR-HUN
OVERVIEW
Trijicon Electro Opt
Riflescope provides
class thermal image
precision and a supe
Unlike the more com
cation systems that c
Electro Optics utilize t
that captures the heat
and produces superior
The IR-HUNTER provide
with a full 640x480, 12-
image sensor and fully d
processing. Digital focus
trols allow the user to ad
maximum clarity and sha

SPECS & FEATURES


OPTICAL MAGNIFICATION: 4
DIGITAL MAGNIFICATION: 36
LENS: 60MM F/1.25
BASE FIELD OF VIEW: 7°
BODY MATERIAL: FORGED AL
6061T6
RECOIL RATING: 500G

MSRP: $6,999
WEB: TRIJICON.COM
70 WORLD OF FIREPOWER

FLIR
ThermoSight
Pro PTS736
OVERVIEW
The FLIR ThermoSight Pro Series delivers
smaller, lighter optics with increased image
performance and range. Featuring on-chip
video processing and an uncompressed
video signal fed directly to a high-definition
1280x960 display, the FLIR ThermoSight Pro
Series ofers improved object detection and
classification in the field and clean thermal
imagery in any light—from low-contrast
daylight to total darkness—or through smoke,
haze and light fog.
Each FLIR ThermoSight Pro ofers 320x256
thermal resolution, Bluetooth 4.0 and USB-C
connectivity, and user-controlled imaging
palettes and image enhancement filters.

SPECS & FEATURES


OPTICAL MAGNIFICATION: 1X, 2X, 4X
DIGITAL MAGNIFICATION: 2X, 4X
LENS: 75MM
BASE FIELD OF VIEW: 3° X 2.5°
BODY MATERIAL: ALUMINUM ALLOY
RECOIL RATING: 7.62X51MM NATO (.308)

MSRP: PRO SERIES STARTS AT $2,199


WEB: FLIR.COM

10Trijicon
Reap-IR
OVERVIEW
You might say that the REAP-IR is a key
member of the S.W.A.P. (size, weight and
power) “team.” This 590-gram thermal is
ruggedly built and packed with features,
such as digital 8X zoom. You may also
choose polarity between three levels of
white hot and three levels of black hot.
Plus, to view your target with more preci-
sion, simply run this in Edge Detect Tactical
Mode. To help with ballistic calculations and
sighting in the system, the thermal sight
displays your current reticle position in the
lower left corner of the screen.

SPECS & FEATURES


OPTICAL MAGNIFICATION: 2.5X
DIGITAL MAGNIFICATION: 20X, 8X
LENS: 35MM F/1.2, F/1.1
BASE FIELD OF VIEW: 12°
BODY MATERIAL: ALUMINUM 707
RECOIL RATING: 500G

MSRP: $7,899
WEB: TRIJICON.COM
NOVEMBER-DECEMBER, 2018 71

11
Pulsar
Trail XP50
OVERVIEW
The flagship Pulsar Trail XP50 delivers
vivid thermal imaging from a world-
class 640x480px sensor core, ofering
human-sized heat detection at up to 2,000
yards. The XP50’s popular “white hot” and
“black hot” modes, 13 digital reticle options,
variable 1.6-12.8x magnification and 50Hz
refresh rate provide users with fluid imaging,
customized thermal mapping and a richly
contrasted field of view.
To eliminate the need to carry additional bat-
teries, all Pulsar Trail’s come standard with a
rechargeable 8-hour battery pack. The Trail
XP50 boasts a world-class AMOLED display
and onboard video recording with 8-gb
internal storage and Wi-Fi for wireless video
monitoring, streaming and transfers.

SPECS & FEATURES


OPTICAL MAGNIFICATION: 1.6X - 12.8X
DIGITAL MAGNIFICATION: 2X, 4X, 8X
LENS: 50MM
BASE FIELD OF VIEW: 12.4° – 9.3°
BODY MATERIAL: GLASS NYLON
COMPOSITE
RECOIL RATING: .375 H&H

MSRP: $5,499.99
WEB: PULSARNV.COM

12
ATN
ThOR 4 384
1.25-5x
OVERVIEW
The new THOR 4 384 1.25-5x is designed
to provide superior value with its New
Generation Thermal Sensor and Dual Core
Processor technology to give you the quality
you want at the price point you crave.
The new platform also ofers an ultra-sen-
sitive Next Gen Sensor with enhanced
image processing capabilities and allows
simultaneous onboard video recording and
WiFi streaming at the same time.
The Thor 4 series has Recoil Activated
Video capabilities, weighs 1.93 pounds,
is weather-resistant and incorporates a
new recoil-resistant design. This scope is
designed to withstand the kinetics of your
high-caliber weapons.

SPECS & FEATURES


OPTICAL MAGNIFICATION: 1.25X
DIGITAL MAGNIFICATION: 5X
LENS: 19MM
BASE FIELD OF VIEW: 6° X 12.5°
BODY MATERIAL: HARD-ANODIZED
ALUMINUM
RECOIL RATING: 375HH, .416

MSRP: $1,999
WEB: ATNCORP.COM
72 WORLD OF FIREPOWER

13EoTech
Light
Weapon
Thermal
Sight (LWTS)
OVERVIEW
The LWTS, which weighs 1.85 pounds, is a
versatile thermal imaging solution. This clip-
on system mounts in front of your day optics
and allows you to view your reticle over the
thermal image. Additionally, the LWTS can
be used as a handheld observation tool or
mounted by itself as a stand-alone weapon
sight. Its thermal imaging capability allows
for long-wave infrared observation and tar-
get identification under adverse conditions,
including light rain or snow, smoke and low
light to total darkness.

SPECS & FEATURES


OPTICAL MAGNIFICATION: 2X
DIGITAL MAGNIFICATION: 1X, 2X
LENS: 50MM
BASE FIELD OF VIEW: 14.8°
BODY MATERIAL: ALUMINUM ALLOY
RECOIL RATING: 500G

MSRP: $15,099
WEB: EOTECHINC.COM

14Night Optics
SVTS-640
OVERVIEW
The Night Optics SVTS riflescope line is the
world’s first continuous calibration thermal
riflescope line. Continuous calibration as-
sures the screen will not freeze at a critical
moment. The addition of Heat Tracker to
the SVTS, which has a display resolution of
640x480, quickly identifies the next target
with an arrow pointing to targets outside of
the visible screen. The quick-select menu,
waterproof construction and multiple reticle
choices ensure fast target acquisition and
accuracy in adverse weather conditions.

SPECS & FEATURES


OPTICAL MAGNIFICATION: 6X
DIGITAL MAGNIFICATION: 1X, 3X, 6X
LENS: 50MM
BASE FIELD OF VIEW: 6°
BODY MATERIAL: ALUMINUM
RECOIL RATING: 500G

MSRP: $3,499
WEB: NIGHTOPTICS.COM
74 WORLD OF FIREPOWER

15Shepherd
Scopes
Prowler 640
OVERVIEW
Shepherd Scopes has developed a thermal
imaging riflescope that is among the first of
its kind. It features the dual reticle Shepherd
developed 35 years ago that has a drop
compensating reticle combined with thermal
imaging. It is a weapon-mounted sight but
may be used as a handheld imager as well.
The Prowler, which features a pixel array
format of 640x512, uses solid-state circuits
and long-wave infrared technology. Dust,
haze and fog are no impediment to the
Prowler, although it emits no visible light or
RF energy for anyone to track or for an ani-
mal to observe. The Prowler uses a MIL STD
1913 (Picatinny rail) quick-release mount..

SPECS & FEATURES


OPTICAL MAGNIFICATION: 2X
DIGITAL MAGNIFICATION: 1X, 2X, 4X, 8X
LENS: 25MM
BASE FIELD OF VIEW: 12.5° X 10°
BODY MATERIAL: CNC MACHINED
AIRCRAFT-ALUMINUM ALLOY
RECOIL RATING: 700G

MSRP: $6,750
WEB: SHEPHERDSCOPES.COM

16Trijicon
MK3-60
OVERVIEW
Trijicon Electro Optics IR-HUNTER
Thermal Riflescope provides an industry
best-in-class thermal image to give users
lights-out precision and a superior hunting
advantage. Unlike the more common image
intensification systems that collect light,
Trijicon’s Electro Optics utilize thermal
technology that captures the heat emitted
from objects and produces superior clarity
and detection.
The IR-HUNTER provides a thermal image
with a full 640x480, 12-micron thermal
image sensor and fully digital, 60 Hz image
processing. Digital focus and contrast con-
trols allow the user to adjust the system
for maximum clarity and sharpness.

SPECS & FEATURES


OPTICAL MAGNIFICATION: 4.5X
DIGITAL MAGNIFICATION: 36X, 8X
LENS: 60MM F/1.25
BASE FIELD OF VIEW: 7°
BODY MATERIAL: FORGED ALUMINUM
RECOIL RATING: 500G

MSRP: $8,999
WEB: TRIJICON.COM
76 WORLD OF FIREPOWER
NOVEMBER-DECEMBER, 2018 77

WILSON COMBAT’S AR9


PISTOL FEATURES FLAWLESS
WORKMANSHIP,
OUTSTANDING ACCURACY
TEXT BY BOB CAMPBELL | PHOTOS BY STEVE WOODS
78 WORLD OF FIREPOWER

“The Wilson Combat AR pistol


is a firearm that operates
at another level …”

L
et me make something clear right
Forend to barrel
away. During my career as a writer, fit is excellent, and
the T.R.I.M. rail is
I don’t think I ever had as much fun a great choice for
testing a gun as I did with this one. this 9mm pistol,
the author said.
Seriously, this has got to be the leading all-time
fun gun I have encountered. Ever.

Not only is the Wilson Combat AR9 pistol


accurate and reliable, the recoil is low and
its workmanship is absolutely faultless.
Believe me, there is a lot to like and a lot to
recommend with this pistol.

On top of all that, it is also a superior


personal defense firearm that provides area
defense and home defense better than a
pistol. I have extensive experience with
Wilson Combat firearms, and I knew that I
could expect precision, reliability and top
accuracy. And I got all of this and more.

The AR-type pistol isn’t new; they have been


available for some time. But the Wilson Combat
AR pistol is a firearm that operates at another
level compared to most. The pistol is built to last
and to perform well, and that performance will
lead you to many good destinations … and our
next stop is an account of my review.

First Up
Let’s look at what this Wilson has. The AR9
pistol features Armor Tuff coating. I have
NOVEMBER-DECEMBER, 2018 79

but do not feature the Glock’s internal metal


reinforcement. For any type of use, I am
deploying Glock magazines.
forearm support is
The muzzle is a threaded 5/8 x 24 with a Shockwave Blade,
muzzle flash suppressor, and the pistol is which is standard.
suppressor ready.
The AR9 features a Wilson Combat TTU
The pistol is available with either an 8- or tactical trigger unit, two-stage, with a
11.3-inch barrel. The overall length is 4.5-pound trigger. This is very important. Due
24.25 or 27.55 inches. The weight is 5.5 to momentum and recoil issues, a 9mm AR
or 6 pounds depending on barrel length. platform doesn’t always prove hospitable with
The version I tested is set up for Glock the standard AR trigger. The Wilson Combat
magazines, but there is also a Beretta- TTU is a critical feature.
compatible AR9 available.
The pistol features a proprietary bolt
The pistol is supplied with the Wilson and barrel, but the rails and barrel are
Combat T.R.I.M. rail and Bravo Company compatible with AR-15 accessories. My
Manufacturing pistol grip. The pistol example was supplied with an Aimpoint
80 WORLD OF FIREPOWER

«
I tested is equipped with the Gear Works
stock, as this is a custom-type firearm and RUNNING A RED DOT
the Gear Works stabilizer is an option. This
Aimpoint’s H2 Micro
is an adjustable forearm support with good
adjustment and a folding option. Please The first manufacturer of red dot sights is With 1x—that is, one power or no magnifica-
Aimpoint, and I believe they have remained at tion—the red dot is intended for the edge at
note the pistol must not be fired with the the top of the heap. Their red dots are proven moderate range.
stock folded because that would damage in harsh conditions and combat the world
the action. Because it folds, this makes for over. They have been the mainstay for police When you order a red dot, be certain to specify
agencies and professionals who appreciate a 2 or 4 MOA reticle. The choice is important, and
an even more compact package.
quality optic. you will need to think about how the sight will
be used. The H2 has 12 settings but none for
There has been some debate on the stabilizing While not inexpensive, the Aimpoint costs less night vision use, which doesn’t matter at all to
brace and there are differing opinions, even than gear that is far less proven. The design is me, but the Aimpoint T2 will be the choice for
excellent, and they have a proven track record. tactical operators. The T2 has fewer daylight set-
from the BATF. Most BATF agents are hard- While all Aimpoint gear is durable and useful, tings, but the night vision setting may be pretty
working law officers wading through piles of some are better suited than others to each important to some users. The T2 is proofed for a
paperwork and attempting to do a thankless situation. wider variety of climatic conditions.
job with limited resources. The recent BATF
There are a number of red dot sights that I feel During one test period, I took the Wilson Com-
letters spanning a few months are confusing ofer the most versatility. I think that the H2 Mi- bat AR9 to the range and fired over 200 rounds
to some of us. I am not a scofflaw. While I cro sights work best for most of us. This unit is of Federal Syntech training ammunition, 150 of
think some laws should be changed, I obey suitable for use with a magnifier if need be. The the 115-grain and 50 of the 124-grain load.
H2 has the red dot advantage of extreme speed,
them. Thus, I fired the AR9 pistol as a pistol
and you can use it with both eyes open. Accuracy is excellent at all ranges, with head
using the brace as a forearm brace. I did not shots being carried of at a long 100 yards. Fir-
use the brace as a rifle brace. The pistol features The advantage of the new Aimpoint is also bat- ing from the benchrest handgun firing position
a Wilson Combat
TTU tactical trigger tery life. They will last for five years on a single and taking a careful aim, I placed five of the
unit, two-stage, battery. That is a great leap from early red dot Federal Syntech rounds into less than 1 inch at
Before beginning to use the AR9, I lubricated with a 4.5-pound
sights and many that are still in use. 25 yards. I hit the X at 100 yards.
trigger.
the bolt well and inspected the pistol for
The H2 weighs little over 3 ounces, making for a This Wilson Combat AR9 is an accurate AR-type
compact package. Yet it is service grade. The H2 pistol, but the Aimpoint H2 Micro ofers excellent
features a wide range of setting for brightness. accuracy potential for any firearm.
82 WORLD OF FIREPOWER

“During my career as a writer,


I don’t think I ever had as
much fun testing a gun
as I did with this one.”

and offers excellent functionality. I took Note the muzzle thing long gun that was useful for precision defense, the AR pistol has many advantages,
brake affixed to the
barrel. This brake fire as a rifle and area fire as an automatic rifle. including increased range over a shotgun.
several loads to the range. In the intervening proved effective It replaced the 9mm sub-machinegun. For
weeks, I fired more than a dozen loads with during firing tests.
many years that is where the situation stood. It does not surprise me that Wilson made this.
excellent results. The superiority of the 5.56mm cartridge made The AR-type pistol is very popular so it makes a
the 9mm SMG obsolete. Then Colt responded lot of sense that a 9mm AR-pistol variant would
to LEO requests for a 9mm AR to fill a be introduced. The 9mm ofers inexpensive,
The Wilson Combat AR 9 pistol was a joy to use
traditional SMG niche. Less expensive than easily found ammunition; and good maneuver-
and fire. I never encountered a stoppage, and the Heckler & Koch MP5, the Colt 9mm SMG ability in tight quarters, such as vehicle defense
the pistol exhibited excellent accuracy. So far I enjoyed some popularity but was eclipsed by and in the home. This is an ideal role for a short,
5.56mm variants. fast-handling AR.
have fired about 750 cartridges. The pistol is a
joy to fire. Today there are 9mm AR conversions available, The 9mm has the advantage of less flash
and there are many good reasons for owning a and blast, and light recoil, too. The 9mm with
While using Brownells.com Bullshooter 9mm AR. The 9mm ofers inexpensive practice, the most powerful loads ofers good wound
ammunition that is available everywhere, and potential, more so from the AR pistol’s longer
brace, with the barrel braced and as a
it provides good accuracy up to 100 yards—or barrel. There are firing ranges that prohibit rifles
pistol, I did not have any trouble putting even a little more. and rifle-caliber pistols, but the 9mm AR pistol
five bullets into an inch at 25 yards. The is just fine.
Aimpoint red dot was set at the lowest Admittedly, I have been resistant to the
concept of a 9mm AR based on the superior This allows more practice. As an example, my
setting, and I scored superb accuracy. power, accuracy and wound potential of the pistol range is less than 20 minutes away, but
5.56mm. That’s fine for LEO and others, but for the rifle range is a solid hour. There are also a
The pistol’s 8-inch barrel provided a most of us, the 9mm does just fine. My friend number of venues for competition with the 9mm
Darrell has a great deal of experience with AR rifle and the AR pistol, as well. An AR-type plat-
considerable velocity advantage over
the AR, including military experience, and he form is far more accurate than the UZI-type pistol
typical 4- to 5-inch 9mm Luger pistol barrel enjoys his 9mm AR. He asked me what the and most 9mm carbines. The AR9 is a credible
lengths. As an example, the superb Black likelihood of me needing the rifle in a personal piece, well-made, and with more applications
Hills Ammunition 115-grain JHP +P exhibited defense engagement or for hunting game. I than we might first think.

1,458 fps. The hard-hitting Hornady


135-grain Flex Lok broke 1,150 fps. Either
NEW

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84 WORLD OF FIREPOWER

nal defense
ghts
is the chore, the Wilson
The AR9 pistol is fast on target and well
balanced. Firing with one hand affords good Combat AR9 is far
results at close range. Using the forearm
brace and the Aimpoint red dot, I attempted superior to standard
several runs on steel gongs. Frankly,
shooting the AR9 pistol on the same course handguns and will give
I usually run with my 1911, Glock and SIG
pistols was almost too easy! The pistol is fin- a homeowner an edge in
a defensive situation.”
ished in Armor Tuff,
a durable finish
with an excellent
Like I said, I’ve never had more fun. reputation.
86 WORLD OF FIREPOWER
NOVEMBER-DECEMBER, 2018 87

Practical,
No BSAN ELITE FIREARMS
INSTRUCTOR REVEALS
HIS TOP GEAR CHOICES
FOR THE RANGE
TEXT BY JOSHUA JACKSON | PHOTOS BY PETER FARIA

Y
ou could say I’ve seen it all. As
a law enforcement and private
sector firearms instructor and a
regular student in a variety of
training courses, I have had the opportunity
to see hundreds of students bring all sorts of
items to the range. Want a few examples?
Here are a couple. Try duffle bag straps
repurposed as rifle slings. Or how about cam-
era pouches used to hold magazines? The list
goes on, but you get the idea.

You don’t have to take that route, but which


direction should you go? After all, your choic-
es are endless. The following are my recom-
mendations. These top 10 products should
make any student’s training experience
better. All these items are practical, no-BS,
hard-use pieces of equipment. =

Peak perfor-
mance is the
priority, and
Joshua Jack-
son’s (rear) gear
recommenda-
tion is intended
for that reason.

PHOTO BY LAR RY AT IL
88 WORLD OF FIREPOWER

o1. o2. The author


Electronic Hearing Protection Eye Protection highly
recommends

MSA ESS
electronic “ears”
because they
amplify voices
while cancelling
Sordin Supreme Crossbow the sound
of gunfire. A
quality of pair
Pro-X Suppressor of “eyes” are
also critical for

Glasses
“Ear pro.” While seen by many new students as the range.
Gucci gear and money that could be spent else-
where, electronic hearing protection provides you It may not be
Like ears, you only get one set of eyes, so you sexy, but the
the best opportunity to get as much as possible need a quality pair of glasses to provide ample Cell Vault is
from your training experience. By amplifying voices protection. As with most of you, I, too, have essential gear
while cancelling the sound of gunfire, you can hear my favorite pairs of sunglasses, but for an all- for the range.
what the instructor is saying and record notes as around range safety glass, the ESS Crossbow
needed without the risk of failing to replace your Suppressor is where it’s at.
ear plugs when the gunfire resumes. New shooters
seem less left behind during the class and aren’t The Crossbow Suppressor has been my one
messing with “foamies” all day. Electronic hearing and only for low-light and no-light shooting for
protection also increases the shooter’s awareness the past several years. With great wraparound
of what is going on around him/her. coverage and lenses that easily switch between
clear, smoke and other oferings, the Suppres-
There are many options that range in price from sor is great for shooting. Where the Suppressor
$50 to several hundred dollars. My personal truly shines is the ultra-thin arms that don’t
choice is the MSA Sordin Supreme Pro-X with gel interfere with earmuf-style hearing protection.
ear cups. In the over-the-head category of hearing
protection, they provide superior sound clarity and
MSRP
noise attenuation, as well as weather resistance.
While on the upper end of the cost scale, they $50
provide the best all-day comfort, and I have found WEB
them to be extremely durable. In my mind, the
ESSEYEPRO.COM
expression “buy once, cry once” comes to mind.
On the lower end are the Howard Leight Impact
Sport. Afordable and durable, they give stu-
dents a good product at a decent price. o3. Stretch and
flex. The author

MSRP Practical Range Wear needs pants that


will cooperate

Vertx
$230-$270 with him as he
moves through
WEB a multitude
of different
US.MSASAFETY.COM
Hyde Pants movements
and drills while
teaching.
NOVEMBER-DECEMBER, 2018 89
o5.
If you’re looking for a pair of comfortable pants
that will stretch and flex as you move through any
series of range drills, Hyde is for you. They have a
pocket layout and belt-loop sizing that lends itself
to larger tactical belts. As a versatile and durable
Handheld Flashlight
pair of pants, they don’t look overtly tactical,
which lends them to range use or everyday use Streamlight
without making you look like you’re ready to go
to war.
ProTac 2L-X
Handheld
Compared to a lot of other “less tactical” or non-
purpose-built pants, these work well and meet the
needs of the end user without lacking. I’ve used
Vertx uniforms for patrol, tactical deployments
and instruction for several years. Until the Hyde,
Flashlight
they all felt too tactical. The Hyde is practical and Let us count the ways that flashlights are critical.
provides all the form and function needed. One, they can be used for positive identification
of a threat during a deadly force encounter. Two,
MSRP you can use them to find your way out of a dark
$75 building during a power outage. Three, they are
there for you to ensure that you didn’t leave a
WEB critical piece of equipment behind on the range
VERTX.COM after a low-light range session. Those add up to
cover some critical elements, but where do you
go from there?

o4. When it comes to durability, performance and


cost, the Streamlight ProTac 2L-X is a great
Battery Storage handheld light. This heavyweight packs 500
lumens and is dual-fuel capable with CR123A or

Thyrm rechargeable 18650 batteries. I can tell you that


this light has yet to disappoint me.

Cell Vault
It’s competitively priced, and all-metal construc-
tion makes this light super durable. In the unlikely
event that you need their customer service, I can
Whether they’re for weapon-mounted lights, vouch for it being amazing.
hearing protection, a shot timer or your flash-
light, batteries are the common critical com-
MSRP
ponent. The Thyrm Cell Vault provides secure
waterproof storage for your AA, AAA and CR123 $45
batteries. The Cell Vault can also be used to
WEB
store other sensitive items such as medication,
survival equipment or even tobacco. The Cell STREAMLIGHT.COM
Vault can also mount to MOLLE webbing.
For me, the Cell Vault beats everything else I
have tried for storage, from taping to bagging to o6.
other plastic storage devices.
Gloves
SKD Tactical
MSRP
$19.99-$29.99

WEB
THYRM.COM PIG Full Dexterity

Flashlights
also play an
important role,
and this one
packs 500
blinding lumens.

SKD Tactical’s
gloves provide
a great fit, great
feel and great
durability, says
the author.
90 WORLD OF FIREPOWER

Among other
benefits, the AWS,
Inc. LAB features
an inner Velcro belt
and an outer stiff
belt with a cobra
buckle.

A close look
at some of the
author’s favorite
accessories.

Jackson prefers the


2-Point because
it cut weight and
added strength
that he says was
unavailable with
plastic sliding
mechanisms.

Tactical Alpha
buckle. Plus, moveable MOLLE panel tabs can
be placed as needed so that pouches can be
mounted.
Gloves I purchased one of these for teaching and liked
Over the years I have used a lot of difer- it so much I bought a second as a dedicated
ent gloves, but there is now one that reigns belt for SWAT callouts. And my staf thinks I’m
supreme. The SKD PIG FDT Alpha has become cheap.
my go-to for the last three years. I had another
glove that I loved, but I was only getting a few MSRP
months out of them for shooting and tactical $59.25
deployments. On a whim, I made the switch and
haven’t looked back. WEB
AWSIN.COM
The thin, yet durable, palms don’t afect my
pistol shooting, and they aren’t destroyed

o8.
loading steel targets or doing other range tasks.
As a breacher, I am hard on gloves, and these
have held up well. Great fit, great feel, durable
and worthy of a second pair to ensure one for
training and one for SWAT operations. What
Rifle/Carbine Sling
more can I say?
SierraTac
MSRP
$42.95 2-Point
WEB
SKDTAC.COM Adjustable
Padded Sling
o7. Having settled in for the long haul on one brand,
and having a second brand as the general issue
Range/Duty Belt sling for work, I frankly hadn’t looked at slings in
quite some time. My go-to and my issued work

AWS, Inc. sling did just fine. Enter the SierraTac 2-Point
Sling.

Lightweight
With a metal slider and lightweight components,
the 2-Point cut weight where it could and added
strength that was unavailable with plastic sliding
Assaulter Belt mechanisms. The padded section makes me
grateful the padding is there, but there is not so
(LAB) much padding that it impacts form or function.
I transitioned to this sling for all my teaching and
While I often want to run a concealment garment for my SWAT rifle and have not had any issues,
with an IWB or AIWB holster, I also like to run nor have I been able to identify any shortcom-
an overt belt for several reasons. Frequently, I ings.
like to train and shoot with a setup that’s similar
to my duty belt, and the simplicity of taking my
MSRP
entire shooting rig on and of as one belt is really
convenient. $59.99

In an efort to get away from the cumbersome WEB


battle belt, the AWS, Inc. LAB uses an inner SIERRATAC.COM
Velcro belt and an outer stif belt with a cobra
COMFORT.
ADAPTABILITY.
SPEED.

AVAILABLE WITH QUICK DISCONNECT,


SNAP HOOK, OR FREE END CONNECTORS

INSTANTLY CHANGE FROM A 2-POINT TO A SINGLE


POINT SLING - FOR UNMATCHED VERSATILITY PATENTED RAPID ADJUST SLIDER
FOR HIGH SPEED TRANSITIONS
QUICK DISCONNECT

HIGHLY COMFORTABLE - SLICK-EDGED,


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SNAP HOOK
FREE-END SLICK

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PRODUCTS
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BLACKHAWK.COM
©2018 BLACKHAWK! 9200 Cody, Overland Park, KS 66202
92 WORLD OF FIREPOWER

From another per-


spective, this also
captures a close o9.
look at some of the
author’s favorite
accessories.
Miscellaneous
L.A.G. Tactical
Magazine
Pouches and
More
When it comes to durability and quality, L.A.G.
Tactical is my company. I look to them each and
every time for their concealment and low-visibil-
ity holsters and other Kydex equipment.
One of the items I have is the company’s new
Modular Carry System (M.C.S.), which is
available as a standalone individual carrier or
you can attach it using the flexible bands. This
is the definition of form and function. Where
past Kydex designs fell short by becoming too
long when making a two-magazine or other
item carrier, the M.C.S. shines. Why? There is
still flexibility between the two items as it is two
connected pouches rather than one long one.
Additionally, the inherent ability to adapt or
change one piece to the task or as end user pref-
erence dictates is hugely beneficial. I have been
using L.A.G. Tactical Kydex carriers on duty daily
for several years without hesitation or complaint.

MSRP
Varies by product
A shot timer is
a great way to WEB
enhance your LAGTACTICAL.COM
skills and provide
valuable data to
measure your
performance.
10.
Shot Timer
Competitive
Edge Dynamics
CED7000
Using a shot timer provides you with valuable
data to measure your performance as you gain
experience. While not something you are likely
to use in a shooting class, you should be using
a shot timer for your personal range sessions
between training classes.
Competitive Edge Dynamics’ CED7000 is a small
and versatile shot timer with a loud buzzer, and it
is simple to operate. The CED7000 is small enough
to hang around your neck and not be noticed or
be a distraction. It is rechargeable, which is nice.
If you want something less dependent on con-
ventional electricity, the CED Pocket Pro II, which
runs of of a 9-volt battery, is a good option.

MSRP
$119.95

WEB
CEDHK.COM

Navigate the Seas


While many have covered tips like unboxing
your ammunition prior to the start of a class
to save time on loading or bringing a small
reporter’s notebook and later transferring
your notes to a larger format, it is my hope
that some of these equipment suggestions
will assist you as you navigate the sea of
purchases ahead of you. After all, no one
wants to experience an it-seemed-like-a-
good-idea-at-the-time moment.
Double the
Firepower,
For Less
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Gun World and save 69% on
the combined cover price!
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IT
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U T IT
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or call 800-764-6278WRRUGHU\RXUVXEVFULSWLRQ$OORZWRZHHNVIRUGHOLYHU\RIÀUVWLVVXH
Outside U.S., add $49 per year for postage. Payment in U.S. funds only.
94 WORLD OF FIREPOWER
NOVEMBER-DECEMBER, 2018 95

The TLR-8 attaches


easily to the acces-
sory rail of most
mid- to full-sized
handguns. The
knurled, slotted
bolt that secures it
can be tightened
with a quarter
or other coin if a
screwdriver isn’t
handy.

ROCKIN’ 500 LUMENS,


STREAMLIGHT’S NEW TLR-8
WML ENHANCES YOUR SAFETY
TEXT & PHOTOS BY STEVE BARL OW
96 WORLD OF FIREPOWER

«
TLR-8 combines a powerful light with a max The TLR-8 attaches
easily to the acces-

THE BENEFITS
output of 500 lumens and a red laser for an sory rail of most
mid- to full-sized
excellent sighting alternative in low light. handguns. The

OF A LASER
knurled, slotted
bolt that secures it
can be tightened
Let’s take a closer look. with a quarter,
or other coin, if a A laser on a handgun can be something you
screwdriver isn’t use with your iron sights, not instead of them.
handy.
THE FEATURES At the distance you’ve chosen to sight in your
The TLR-8 is powered by one CR123A lithium laser, your gun’s front sight and that laser
dot should line up. At other typical handgun
battery. You access the battery compartment
distances, it will be close.
by unscrewing the light’s bezel and without

T
here are many good tactical removing the light from the weapon. So, you can present your weapon as you
flashlights on the market. But the would normally in daylight to bring that front
sight on target as you’ve trained. If you’re in
techniques for using a flashlight in Long, narrow power switches run vertically low light and you can’t pick up that front sight
conjunction with a handgun usually along each side of the unit. They make the quickly, the laser dot should be in view.
don’t allow for your normal two-handed hold on light easy to operate in the dark, under
The laser is useful, too, when you’re firing from
the gun. stress. Press either switch and the light turns
an unconventional position. During a gunfight,
on or off. Press and hold a switch briefly, behind cover, for instance, you might not be
Sometimes you’re okay for the first shot, but and the light switches to momentary-on able to hold the gun out there to acquire your
it can be difficult getting the gun back on mode. Release the button and the light goes normal sight picture. With the laser, you can
put the dot on target and pull the trigger.
target for a follow-up. A weapon-mounted out. That’s a useful tactical feature because
light (WML) can solve that problem. a light can also make you a good target.
ONLINE SOURCES
STREAMLIGHT: STREAMLIGHT.COM
One of the best new lights is the Streamlight Pressing both buttons allows you to toggle
DESANTIS GUNHIDE:
TLR-8. Designed to be mounted on the rail through the different modes: light only, laser DESANTISHOLSTER.COM

of compact and full-sized handguns, the only, and light and laser together. There’s
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GUSSETED CROTCH
98 WORLD OF FIREPOWER

“It weighs
less than 3

«
ounces, but it’s
placed at the gun’s LET US COUNT THY WAYS

muzzle where every Aside from being able to control your hand-

little bit can help with


gun with a normal grip, the obvious benefit
of a weapon-mounted light is that it takes no
The TLR-8 is more coordinated efort or skill to use it with
compact and what

recoil control.”
little weight it does a firearm. Where you point your gun is where
add to the muzzle your light shines. You can assess any threat
end of the gun
also helps in recoil without the constant need to work at keeping
management. the gun and light focused on the same point.

They are small enough now that many people


also a strobe mode that, once you program elevation is easy using the included tiny hex keep a light mounted to the gun all the time,
it in, activates with two quick touches. wrench. I sighted it in to be on target at 15 so it’s there when you need it. Holster makers
are responding by ofering new rigs designed
yards. Closer or beyond that, to reasonable
to fit handguns with lights and lasers attached.
The TLR-8 is 2.15 inches long, so it’s not a handgun distances, and I was still putting DeSantis Gunhide, for instance, has its leather
bulky add-on. It weighs less than 3 ounces, hits where they’d do damage. Tac-Lite (with thumb break) and Speed-Lite
but it’s placed at the gun’s muzzle where (without thumb break) holsters for use with
TLR-8-equipped guns.
every little bit can help with recoil control. Removing the TLR-8 and remounting it didn’t
seem to affect the zero appreciably. That’s If you don’t want the light attached full time,
The TLR-8 comes with an assortment of good to know if you will be taking the unit they’re easy to remove. You can carry the gun
all day, then add the light when you reach
adapter plates so that you can fit it precisely on and off the gun.
your destination, whether that’s a remote
and securely to your particular gun. The wooded area, a hotel in a strange town, or
clamp that secures the TLR-8 to the gun’s BOLSTER YOUR DEFENSE home.
rail is held tight by a single bolt. It is slotted The Streamlight TLR-8 has a suggested retail
They make great handheld lights away from
so you can use a screwdriver to tighten it, price of $350. The company also offers a
the gun, too. Also useful, because often you
but a coin will do the trick. The bolt is also TLR-7 model with light only, no laser, for don’t want to be pointing a gun where you
knurled, so you can hand-tighten it in a a suggested $215. Either one is a worthy need to direct your light.
pinch. addition to your self-defense gear—they
can give you greater capability in low light,
Adjusting the laser for windage and which is when most conflicts occur.
P ROT EC T I ON

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L A SERS • LIGHTS • SIGHTS • S CO P ES


crimsontrace.com
100 WORLD OF FIREPOWER

To improve his
shooting skills, the
author has sought
sound ideas from a
variety of people.
NOVEMBER-DECEMBER, 2018 101

The Path To
Accuracy
7 Simple, Proven Steps that Will Make
You a Better Shooter TEXT BY JA SON DAVIS | PHOTOS BY GUS AL ONZO

I
f you know me, or have read anything I have
previously written, then you know I’m not the
brightest person in the world. My route through
the educational process was public schools
and state college. I definitely did not get a higher
education based on my GPA. (If anyone asks, I will
provide my high school transcripts, but let me warn
you that they are brutal.)

Regardless, I have followed a path that has led to


success. Through the great people I surround myself
with, I have learned a thing or two. I’ve taken some
absolutely wonderful instruction from people who
know far more than I will ever learn, and I have been
able to gather a decent amount of information that
has helped me throughout my life and career. Where
this really stands out is with shooting.

I learned the basics of firearm safety from my


family, but I learned to shoot from others who
taught me accuracy and consistency. I work off
of a few basic principles that I have been taught
over the years, and I do my best to impart that
information on the people I teach, both civilians
and law enforcement. The following highlights
are just a few of the different ways I try to bring
accuracy and consistency to the people who join
me on the range.

I must say that I did not think of any of these


ideas. Everything here is from people before me. I
certainly respect these people, and I have learned
plenty from them over the years. In no particular
order, the following are some of those tips.
102 WORLD OF FIREPOWER

“Do things correctly, over and


over perfectly, and your times
will become faster.”
01: SAYINGS learned that I was gripping my pistols
We have all heard them. Some of us may wrong, something I had been doing for
actually use them while speaking with most of my life. Within three shots, John had
others, but do we really know what all the me change my grip so I was actually able
sayings mean? Take this one: “Smooth is to lock the pistol into my hands like I had
fast.” No, smooth is glass or a baby’s bottom never done before.
after a bath.
What this allowed me to do was acquire a
Fast is just fast, such as drivers at an Indy great sight picture. As a bonus, it showed
car race or ordering the original burger at me the gun wouldn’t move either. Even
McDonald’s in San Bernardino. if I had a trigger press that was less than
adequate, my rounds would strike the target
Fast in shooting comes with practice. A lot of where I wanted. Grip is one of the keys
practice and practice done correctly. to accurate shooting, so have a qualified
instructor take a look at your grip.
Don’t expect to hear a saying, sit in your
living room practicing it and be able to go 03: DRY FIRE
out to the range the next day and profess I dry fire practice a lot, and I mean a lot.
that you are a prophet. Improvement Generally this is something I do every night.
comes with knowledge and application, and I started this while in the Academy, and I
application is the key. Do things correctly, made sure that I had a complete and sterile
over and over perfectly, and your times will area where I practiced. I do the same today; make sure I get a clean break by watching
become faster. nothing is different. A former Special the front sight lock onto the very small
Mission Unit sniper
showed the author peephole I’m sighting in on with every shot.
the benefit of
02: GRIP When I do this, I make sure I have a small using video. While
watching footage,
A clean break is a clean break; anything else
Perhaps one of my greatest moments target. How small is small? Right now I’m Davis saw his in- is a failure.
consistencies and
of enlightenment occurred when I was using a peephole in a door that’s about 7 corrected them.

shooting with John “Shrek” McPhee (former yards out. I make sure my sights are aligned I have found this practice helps me with
SOF sniper). During our session he talked and my grip is perfect and I begin my distance shooting as well as perfect
about grip. I have size 4XL hands, and I trigger press. Movement is minimal, and I placement up close and in compressed
timeframes.

Dry fire is also part


of Davis’ routine. 04: VIDEO
He does this five
or six nights per Quite simply, the video does not lie. It
week, and his tar-
get is a peephole shows you exactly what you are doing
at about 7 yards.
correctly and what you are doing wrong.
Again, I learned this from John McPhee, and
all I had to do was see it for myself when
he showed me what my inconsistencies
were with pistol shooting.

McPhee is a master when it comes to


breaking down the nanoseconds of shooting.
He not only goes frame-by-frame to show
you what is wrong but also corrects you
along the way.

Today, I still put up a tripod and attach an


iPhone to video what I am doing so I can
see what I’m doing right and what I’m doing
wrong. I learn each and every time how I
104 WORLD OF FIREPOWER

“you will
be a better
shooter if
you want
to be a bet-
ter shooter,
and if you
take the time
to learn to
be a better
shooter.”
can get better by replaying a draw, a dry fire Make sure the instructor you’re considering end of the day. Focus on the instruction,
or any movement that comes with shooting. provides instruction that is consistent with To enhance his and maintain your desire.
shooting, Davis
The video doesn’t lie. your priorities (how you want to learn and shoots the NRA
the instruction they provide). You know your
bullseye out to 25
yards. FOLLOW THE PATH
05: TARGETS environment; you also know what will suit Everything discussed here should help the
I shoot a lot on the NRA bullseye target. It is you best. Before you reach a conclusion on an average person become a better shooter.
a pretty small target that shows a black nine instructor, find a handful of instructors who fit Keep in mind, however, that this is not the
and an X ring. It also allows for a seven and your criteria and talk to them before you give be-all, end-all lesson on shooting. This is
eight ring in the white. I use this target from your hard-earned money to any of them. Time merely a few items I hope to impart on
3 to 25 yards. is money, and time is also limited. Find who shooters. Nothing is easy; there are few
works best for you, and move into that arena. truly gifted shooters in this world. Most of
I use a handful of different drills. Ultimately, us have to work at peak performance to see
most of my rounds between those yardages 07: WRAP UP our ideals on the range.
should land in the black. When they do, I had an officer ask me recently, “If I pass
think about this: A fist-sized group in the FBI qualification course, will I become As I stated in the beginning, I am not the
the black translates to a headshot or a a better shooter?“ My answer was no. I brightest individual in the world, but I seek
tight chest shot each and every time. For explained to him that he will be a better to surround myself with others who are
accuracy, this training pays off. shooter if he wants to be a better shooter far better and brighter than myself. I learn
and if he takes the time to learn to be a from them, I open my mind, set my ego
I also use this target with my carbine out to better shooter. aside and go straight to Learning 101. If you
50 yards. As long as I can place most of my follow this path, you’ll also succeed.
rounds in the black, I am consistent. There is no golden ticket to being a better

06: INSTRUCTORS
I’m sure you’ve heard it. I imagine most
everyone has. There is a lot of controversy
about instructors and with whom people
shooter. You get out of shooting exactly
what you put into it. Learning is difficult
at times. Taking what others give you and
putting those pieces together is all about
behavior and consistency. Did You
«
should train. Here is a logical, practical and
effective way to address this. Stress also plays a role in firearms Know?
training. You will most likely put more With shooting, there are very few
When searching for an instructor, do your stress on yourself before any instructor absolutes, with the exception of the four
homework. While online, check the “About Us” puts stress on you. How you deal with basic firearm safety rules.
link on the company’s site. Talk to them, too. that will show in your performance at the
Two Trusted Titles,
One Great Deal

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T SEND I T
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J TU IT CUT That’s 15 issues for a total savings of $60.90 on the cover price.
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Outside U.S., add $35 per year for postage. Payment in U.S. funds only.
106 WORLD OF FIREPOWER

Troy's SOCC is ready to go, out of the


box, with flip-up sights and a perma-
nently attached QD flash suppressor,
giving the shooter the option to run
one of the company's suppressors.
NOVEMBER-DECEMBER, 2018 107

Built On
Quality

TROY'S SOCC CARBINE IS WELL-BUILT,


DEPENDABLE & FAST-HANDLING
TEXT BY MIKE SEARSON | PHOTOS BY BEN DAVIS
108 WORLD OF FIREPOWER

“Any rifle’s barrel may be its heart, but


we believe the trigger to be its soul.
In this case, Troy went with the non-
adjustable 2-stage Geissele G2S.”

I
f you are a student of history or Greek So, what else does it have? Keep reading. in each one. It works as well as the rest
mythology, the name "Troy" conjures up A strong mix of of their line, but fewer human hands have
function and form,
thought of Helen of Troy, the death of the Troy SOCC Build Details touched it or inspected it before it ships out
is designed as a
Achilles, the Trojan Horse, and an epic hard-use rifle that Any rifle’s barrel may be its heart, but we the door. It was a perfect choice for Troy to
happens to look
battle in one of mankind’s oldest pieces of good at the same believe the trigger to be its soul. In this case, use in this rifle.
time.
literature: Homer’s Iliad. Troy went with the non-adjustable 2-stage
Geissele G2S. A two-stage trigger means that The stock is a PDW type that slides forward
If you are a student of firearms, the same name the trigger moves in two-stages. The first part and backward and is surprisingly comfortable
brings to mind a company dedicated to building takes up the slack and takes the shooter to to shoot. It is called the SOCC Airborne Stock
some of the finest ARs, while making huge the “break wall,” a slight amount of pressure and was designed by Troy to reinforce and
innovations along the way. The man who is beyond that takes the shooter into the second strengthen the M4 buffer tube at its weakest
leading the TROY charge is President Andrew Finn. stage and is what releases the hammer. The point. There are multiple QD attachment
advantage here is that the shooter knows points for adding a sling. When collapsed, it is
Both of these thoughts hit us when we precisely when the trigger is going to break. shorter than most AR stocks; when extended,
unboxed the Troy SOCC (Special Operations it offers a full 14 inch length of pull.
Compatible Carbine). Finished in what Troy Most shooters will be familiar with this. If the
refers to as a "military brown" coating, it concept is new to you, you may be thinking, This new stock provides the option of
made us think of the armor and shields “I don’t need stages! I just want to pull the a 4-position length of pull, or a rapid
possibly worn by the ancient Trojans. trigger and have it go bang!” You can rest deployment feature that bypasses the 4
easy. When you squeeze all the way through positions and moves the stock from fully
It’s more than just a cool finish, though. Troy’s in a CQB situation, or if you just want to blast collapsed to fully extended, or the reverse, in
SOCC is one of the shortest non-NFA AR-pattern away at a berm for the weekend, you still one smooth movement.
rifles you can buy. The 14.5-inch barrel is have a very smooth and crisp 4.5-pound
equipped with a pinned and welded flash hider trigger on your rifle. The first stage is 2.5 One issue that we have had with these types
that acts as a suppressor mount for Troy’s brand pounds, and the second is 2 pounds. of stocks in the past is that the side rails can
of silencers. In fact, the pin and weld job has interfere with manipulation of the safety/
been done so well that we have been unable to Originally designed as a lower-cost alternative selector switch. Troy anticipated this and has
find it. If you pick up one of these rifles, do not to the SSA, the G2S has a cult following of its redesigned the selector by canting the lever
think you can simply replace the muzzle device own. This is the trigger popular with shooters at an angle, so the shooter can operate the
with a few turns of a wrench. who own numerous ARs and want a Geissele safety with the stock in the fully or partially
NOVEMBER-DECEMBER, 2018 109

collapsed position. This selector is also


ambidextrous.

The Troy Battle Rail installed on the SOCC is


one of the nicer ones that we have seen.
It is very light, smooth, unobtrusive and
fully M-LOK compatible. It adds an excellent
balance to the carbine. Then again, Troy
mastered the art of making excellent rails
years ago, so the Battle Rails always get Troy's latest rail is
lightweight and
better with each iteration. M-LOK compatible.
110 WORLD OF FIREPOWER

«
Set Your Sights At this point, all you really need (besides an
Many times, we have been disappointed optic, if that’s how you roll) is a sling and a SPECIFICATIONS
when a higher-end rifle comes in and it light, and you are good to go.
comes with no sights. Granted, most shooters CALIBER: 5.56MM NATO

outfit their rifles with an optic of some sort Foregoing these options to give you a good BARREL: 14.5 INCHES
Troy made a huge
OA LENGTH: 30.5-34.5 INCHES
these days; however, when shelling out hard- review of the rifle’s performance, we headed improvement to the
selector lever by WEIGHT: 6.75 POUNDS (EMPTY)
earned cash for an AR, we like the rifle ready out to the range with 500 rounds of Aguila canting it at an an-
STOCK: AIRBORNE
gle to make it easier
to go, out of the box. Troy understands this as 5.56 62-grain ammunition. to engage with the ACTION: SEMI-AUTO
stock collapsed.
well, and includes a set of their own folding SIGHTS: FOLDING FRONT AND REAR
TRIGGER: GEISELLE G2S (2-STAGE)
iron sights with the SOCC. At the Range
FINISH: MILITARY BROWN
Troy only supplied one magazine, which was CAPACITY: 30+1
One thing we really liked was the inclusion extremely well-made, but we were not about MSRP: $1,599
of, not only back-up iron sights, but the fact to load that one magazine up 15 times, so we
that they were Troy’s newest low-profile supplemented with a few Magpul P-Mags and
design. They sit 45% lower in profile than some OKAY Industries Sure Feed magazines. low-light conditions and a more traditional
their standard folding Battle Sights, provide a crosshair with a bullet drop compensator
continuous zero, and are positioned at exact We tested the rifle with both its factory iron (BDC) usable out to 600 yards. The reticle is
factory height. The front-folding sight allows sights and a Trijicon ACOG (TA01-NSN), which marked clearly and like all Trijicon scopes,
for quick-and-easy elevation adjustments; no is what we believe is the perfect scope the glass is extremely clear. The BDC is
tools are needed. These sights are machined for any AR-type rifle. This is not a dual- calibrated for 62-grain ammunition, but it’s
from hardened aircraft aluminum and are Mil- illuminated model like most ACOG scopes not that far off if you use the lighter 55-grain
Spec hard-coat anodized. are. Rather, it uses a tritium reticle for use in rounds, either.
Special Ops Sniper Paul Martinez
takes us inside the 3rd Ranger Battalion
in his thrilling combat memoir detailing what is
expected of our front line troops:

THE TRAINING
THE CAMARADERIE
THE UNRELENTING PACE
OF MISSION AFTER MISSION . . .

AVAILABLE WHEREVER BOOKS ARE SOLD


112 WORLD OF FIREPOWER

“The Troy The author said


Troy's carbine is an
outstanding hard-

SOCC
use rifle that can be
used for military,
law enforcement or
home defense.

proved to
be 100%
reliable
with
all our
ammunition
and
magazines.
It simply
ran like
the
well-oiled
machine
that it is.”

Although the TA01-NSN prevents the use of magnification might be too much or you
a rifle’s iron sights—unless you opt for a see- just have time for a “flash sight picture,”
through mount that will probably give you but they are better than nothing.
more of a “chin-weld” instead of a cheek-
weld on your stock—the scope has back-up With the Troy iron sights and standing at
tritium sights built into it. the shooting line, our groups averaged
around 2 to 3 inches at 100 yards, but
The front sight is part of the body, and the the ACOG with its 4X magnification cut
rear is attached to the ring of the objective these group sizes almost in half when
and is removeable, so you can replace it we fired while seated at a bench.
with an RMR or similar electronic sight as a Although, not designed as a precision-
backup. The Trijicon’s “irons” are on the crude type rifle, the Troy SOCC could be much
side and meant for extreme CQB when the 4x more accurate with a better optic, as far
114 WORLD OF FIREPOWER

as magnification goes.

Ejection was consistent, and we were easily


able to police our brass, as the rifle threw it
all into a neat little pile for us.
Troy made its name developing innovative
parts for ARs that functioned better than most
of their counterparts. It is good to see these
great components incorporated into such a
fine rifle, direct from the manufacturer.
PERFORMANCE
100 YARDS
«
GROUP
AMMUNITION FPS
RANGE
Bottom Line Although budget ARs might be a dime a
AGUILA 5.56 62-GRAIN
The Troy SOCC proved to be 100% reliable dozen these days, we found the Troy SOCC AMMUNITION
2.3 2.6

with all our ammunition and magazines. It to be worth parting with the extra coin. The AGUILA 5.56 55-GRAIN
1.5 1.8
simply ran like the well-oiled machine that it ergonomics are superb, the accuracy and AMMUNITION

is. A shooter could not ask for a better hard- reliability are there, it is ready to shoot, out of
use rifle ideal for military, law enforcement or the box, and it looks great, as well.

“The Troy
home-defense use.
As we said earlier: All you need to do is add a Although it ships
with Troy's latest
set of battle sights,

Battle Rail
These rifles may be primarily marketed sling, a light and perhaps an optic, and it will we found the rifle
toward the military and law enforcement be one carbine suitable to defend the walls more accurate with
a Trijicon ACOG.
markets for extreme CQB situations, but a of your castle. Just don’t be too quick to open
civilian shooter will get plenty of use out of
one of these, as well.
the door if you see a large wooden horse
sitting outside. installed on
the SOCC is
… very light,
smooth,
unobtrusive
and fully
M-Lok
compatible.
It adds an
excellent
balance
to the
carbine.”
Real Heroes FIGHT BACK!

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Jake Mahegan will specially trained agents is out to avert a shocking top-secret operations of the Morgan must race to
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America from terrorists recesses of the Web and start a new Cold War, and new series from a former weapon—one his own
and hackers out to bring infiltrate a twisted network it’s about to go nuclear… intelligence expert. daughter is being forced
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116 WORLD OF FIREPOWER

“This new stock provides the option of


a 4-position length of pull or a rapid
deployment feature that … will move
the stock from fully collapsed to
fully extended, or the reverse, in one
smooth movement.”

A BRIEF HISTORY
OF TROY
«
Steve Troy founded Troy Industries in 2003, with a single
purpose of designing and manufacturing small arms
components and accessories of the highest quality.
It did not take long for AR manufacturers, including
Smith & Wesson, Sturm Ruger & Company and LaRue
Tactical, to start using Troy's top of the line sights, rails
and stocks in their platforms.
Troy Industries debuted their own firearms division in
2012, building complete firearms from the ground up.
Troy Defense offers technologically advanced firearms
and upgrades that previously were only available to
select military and law enforcement agencies.
Compact, lightweight and fast-
handling; Troy's SOCC is ready for any-
thing that gets thrown in its way.
When seconds count«
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118 WORLD OF FIREPOWER

Silence
Is SILENT LEGION’S MULTI-CALIBER
KIT ENABLES YOU TO PUT A CAN
ON MULTIPLE RIFLES

Golden
T E XT BY GORDON MEEHL | PHOTOS BY GORDON MEEHL & COURTESY OF THE MANUFACTURER

What It Brings

I
t was 1902 when Hiram Maxim involved, skipping home after you made
The author said
invented the silencer. Some your purchase was no longer an option. this Silent Legion This kit covers you throwing lead at sizes
suppressor rivals
seven years later, he had it Suddenly, silencers became more difficult or exceeds the .300 Win Mag and below. What? That’s right.
patented. This creation allowed to own. Those interested in owning one are performance of It is one suppressor that, in one purchase,
other brands.
him to shoot on his property without forced to suffer the agony of waiting months meets the needs of almost every rifle in the
disturbing his neighbors. He thought until they get their tax stamp. At that point, average shooter’s safe.
any conscientious shooter would want they can change bang bang to pew pew.
to reduce the sound impact while Beyond the quality and high level of
enjoying his hobby. At an additional $200 a pop, the cost of performance, what makes Silent Legion’s
getting a suppressor for each of your guns Multi-Caliber kit so unique is that it’s a
Back then, there was a point in time when can quickly make your wallet as fine as complete kit. Other brands promote their
one could run out to the hardware store, frog's hair. But what if there was a way cans’ ability to be reconfigured to shoot other
plop down a couple dozen dollars and walk to pay that $200 only once, and still have calibers, usually requiring the shooter to
home with a new Maxim Silencer. (Check almost all your rifles shooting at lower dBs? purchase additional pieces, parts and tools to
our Facebook page for the silencer versus make the switch. Often this reconfiguration
suppressor debate.) Silent Legion Suppressors, a veteran-owned takes some time. Plus, depending on the
company, hailing from the Tar Heel State of parts being switched out, it may be subject to
Now fast forward to the National Firearms North Carolina, provides you with just that another tax stamp. (It’s often overlooked that
Act (NFA) of 1934. This is when the very potential. not only is the silencer as a whole subject to
government started to impose a $200 tax the NFA restrictions, but some silencer parts
on each silencer. With the government How? With their Multi-Caliber suppressor kit. are subject to the restrictions, as well.)
NOVEMBER-DECEMBER, 2018 119

“The can’s dead-on bore concentricity,


combined with the consistently tight
connection … leads to a zero shift in
point of impact.”
120 WORLD OF FIREPOWER

Photo by Gordon Meehl


Inside the Box diminishing the security of the connection. Performance Notes
Silent Legion’s all-inclusive (one stamp) kit In other words, with no teeth to wear Whether your rifle I tested the can with all four mounts on
is chambered in
includes both ½ inch x 28 and 5/8 inch x 24 down or ratchet release to break, the 5.56mm, 6.8 SPC, four different rifles (.300 WM, 6.5 CM, .243
.300 Blackout, 7.62
threaded. Flash hiders are included, as well can-to-QD connection is as tight on the NATO, .300 Win Win, and 5.56). If anything, I found the
Mag or something
as direct-thread inserts in those same thread 1,000th time it’s mounted as it is the first in between, the performance claims to be understated. I’m
Multi-Caliber
patterns. time. A brilliantly simple QD mounting kit has got you not a mechanical engineer, but, having
covered.
mechanism also eliminates the risk of worked for a top silencer company many
For less than $1,379 (a small price for the fouling and compromising the integrity of
«

versatility the suppressor affords), you get the attachment system.


everything you need to quickly move the
suppressor from one caliber to another. Also included in the kit are direct-thread
So how quick is quick? Using the included inserts, so you can screw the can on the

Specs
proprietary QD flash hider and the QD insert rear of rifles that don’t have the QD flash
in the base of the can, changing from a 5.56 hiders. The tool for changing the mounts is
to a .300 Win Mag and back again can be also included. No rifle under .300 Win Mag SOUND REDUCTION: 32DB
LENGTH: 7.5 INCHES
done smoothly in less than 4 seconds (more gets left out.
DIAMETER: 1.50 INCHES
precisely, my best was 3.85 seconds). WEIGHT: 16 OUNCES
The included tool allows for an easy MATERIALS: TITANIUM
FINISH: HIGH-TEMP CERAKOTE
The unique QD design only requires a exchange with the ½ inch x 28 and 5/8
MOUNT: MULTIPLE
slight push and minimal twist to secure inch x 24 inserts. Again, this allows you to
the suppressor to the flash hider. Because direct-thread the can on to any rifle shooting MSRP: $1,379
WEBSITE: SILENTLEGION.COM
the mount doesn’t rely on a tooth-and- .300 Win Mag and below. When I say it’s a
ratchet system, there’s little to no risk of complete kit, I mean complete.
122 WORLD OF FIREPOWER

«
IN THE BOX
Multi-Caliber Suppressor
TWO DIRECT THREAD INSERTS:
1/2 INCH X 28 AND 5/8 INCH X 24
THREADS
QD FLASH HIDERS:
1 X 5.56MM AND 1 X 7.62NATO
DISASSEMBLY TOOL

“At an
additional
$200 a pop,
the cost of
getting a
suppressor
for each of
years ago, I know enough to appreciate consistently tight connection, whether your guns
can quickly
good design, quality construction and the direct-thread or QD, leads to a zero shift The author reports
that you’ll pay the
subtle (though subjective) differences in in point of impact (POI). Not only is a POI $200 NFA tax only
once … and have a

make your
different approaches to sound reduction. shift a frustrating commonality with other suppressor that fits
It’s not a knee-jerk reaction to say that brands, but an inconsistent mount can multiple rifles.

this Silent Legion suppressor rivals, and in also lead to unpredictable POI shifts that
many aspects, is the better of more widely
championed brands.
ruin accuracy and diminish precision. I
had no issue putting the Silent Legion can wallet As
The expected first-round pop shooting
on my competition rifle and repeatedly
punching holes in paper exactly where Fine
through a cold can was less than I
experienced on other cans. Once warm,
they were intended, just like coming out
of a loud barrel. As Frog's
Hair.”
the sound reduction was consistently
comfortable. Because the bore diameter of Pays for Itself
the silencer remains consistent, the relative In a nutshell, Silent Legion’s Multi-Caliber
sound reduction was less as the caliber Kit is like putting money in the bank or
decreased, but surprisingly it was much ammo in your bag. By paying the $200 NFA
less than expected. This can be attributed tax only once (plus cost of the silencer),
to the quality of construction of the internal you’re saving yourself the cost of paying the
baffles. Tight-fitting, high-tolerance baffles government over and over again.
redirect the expanding gases consistently
across the caliber variety. Heck, depending on how many rifles you
have, this high-quality silencer kit might just
It’s also worth noting that the can’s dead- end up paying for itself.
on bore concentricity, combined with the
124 WORLD OF FIREPOWER

I
t was late afternoon, almost dusk, on a cold on the fingers of one hand. Operationally and Our intel told us that the vehicle we were
Afghan day when we got word that we had tactically, that made our job easier. going to intercept soon after it crossed the
good intel and a possible mission that night. border from Pakistan into Afghanistan was
Runners were dispatched, and we were told Afghanistan basically has an agricultural carrying weapons, material and money.
that all personnel needed to assemble in their economy, with a big part of that the growing Most important, these smugglers were
TE XT BY PAU L MA RTINEZ tactical operations center that evening. That was of opium poppies, which are the raw material going to deliver their cargo to some Taliban
all we were told, and for reasons of operational for heroin. In addition to opium poppies, leaders who had shipped the raw material
security there was little speculation. We knew we Afghanistan is also the largest producer of for drugs to Pakistan and were now waiting
would learn more in the TOC. cannabis (mostly as hashish) in the world. for their payment. That meant our U.S. Drug
There are few facilities in Afghanistan for Enforcement Agency, the DEA, was also
INTEL BRIEFING turning large amounts of that raw material involved in this mission.
During our intel briefing, we learned that a into the finished product, so the opium
high-value target—smugglers in a vehicle poppies and cannabis get trucked to Pakistan The crux of this mission was capturing these
coming back from Pakistan—would be moving to be turned into finished drugs. smugglers so we could interrogate them and
along a major supply route between Pakistan have them lead us to the Taliban bosses, who

U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Conner Robbins


and Afghanistan that night. This MSR was In return for this raw material for drugs—which were the big fish.
southeast of Kandahar and was familiar to us. is a major source of income for the Taliban
and allows them to buy weapons—the Taliban Taking out a car full of knuckleheads was easy;
Both Pakistan and Afghanistan are somewhat ships money, manufactured goods and fighters a drone strike could do that with the press of
primitive countries—Afghanistan much more so back into Afghanistan. And often the trucks and a button. We wanted more. We needed a way
than Pakistan—and they don’t have networks cars coming back into Afghanistan also carried in the door, to get inside the Taliban’s drug
of highways like the ones we’re accustomed the piece parts—shaped charges, blast caps, network. Capturing these smugglers could give
to in the United States. In most cases there’s detonators and the like—that the Taliban used us the leads we needed to start tearing down
one way in and one way out, and you could to make the IEDs (improvised explosive devices) the Taliban’s supply chain in Kandahar and the
count all the major highways in Afghanistan that were so feared by our troops. rest of Helmed Province.
NOVEMBER-DECEMBER, 2018 125

GROUND
ZERO
All preparation goes
Our plan was straightforward, but it had many em that two full platoons of Rangers back to our mantra: we needed to advance our timeline and get to
moving parts. We were going to intercept this take down one vehicle full of smugglers Hope for the best, but our overwatch position now.
plan for the worst.
passenger vehicle at a truck stop on the MSR but it goes back to our mantra: “Hope for These photos are for
illustrative purposes.
just inside the Afghanistan border. ut plan for the worst.” Things had been pretty methodical up to now,
but all of a sudden they got frenetic.
For this mission I was with the Reconnaissance CHECK
Platoon, and we would be the backup plan hort ride—about a half hour—to our We got to our overwatch position and set
to stop the vehicle if it blew Second Platoon’s area. After we landed and streamed up quickly. As we settled into position along
barricade. Marc and I would also provide Chinooks, our platoon leader formed the ridgeline, I checked my wrist compass
overwatch for the main assault force, albeit we started moving north at a brisk and followed its bearing to the horizon. Sure
from over half a mile away. Second Platoon n in the green glow of our PVS-13 enough, there were headlights.
would land close to the truck stop at the n goggles we were reminded of how
precise moment our intel told us this vehicle most of Afghanistan is. READY TO ROLL
was going to arrive and would set up positions I was carrying my bolt-action Mk-13 mod
to capture the truck’s occupants once they about 2 klicks into a brisk but 2, our “big gun.” It fired the .30-caliber
stopped for gas. trek toward our objective area when cartridge. Because I knew I might have to stop
came alive. We got updated intel a vehicle quickly, this large cartridge was just
I was the sniper team leader, and Marc was hat the target vehicle was going to the ticket. I also knew that any shots I had
my spotter. truck stop ahead of schedule, and could be a half-mile.
126 WORLD OF FIREPOWER

“Sierra, did you just shoot a


truck you couldn’t see and stop it
with one round?”

Our overwatch position was about 800 meters outcropping between me and their route through He was mirroring my own thoughts.
from the near side of the truck stop, and while the truck stop. If I waited until I could see them
we were well concealed, we had a pretty much again, Second Platoon would be in my line of Suddenly, my earpiece came alive. It was Major Dan.
unobstructed view of the action. The rest of fire, and shooting at the truck would present too
the Recce Platoon was watching our backs to great a risk of me creating a friendly casualty. I “Sierra is cleared to engage vehicle,” he said.
ensure we weren’t ambushed from behind or considered—then rejected—the idea of just taking
overrun by Taliban coming out of nowhere. It the shot without permission and dealing with the My right ear was bare, and I had my right
was “hope for the best, but plan for the worst” consequences later. cheek pressed against the stock of my rifle. I
on steroids. was inhaling and exhaling evenly, slow and
All this was going through my head while I was steady, trying not to disturb my crosshairs
Just like that, our plan was falling apart. The building and rebuilding my shot and adjusting my focused on the target.
target vehicle was moving slowly, and Second math. Marc was looking through his optics and
Platoon was using its 250-lumen tactical feeding me the minute corrections he saw as the I was looking at a wall of granite, a grainy
lights to signal the car to stop, but it didn’t. It truck continued to travel. And every second I’m black-and-green monolith in my night vision
didn’t stop at the truck stop at all but just kept thinking, We’re gonna lose this sucker. scope. I knew the car was there, and I knew
moving. Time for Plan B, and we were it! how fast it was going. I’ve practiced this
As I’m hoping, praying, for the authorization shot more times than I can count, but on a
Our Recce Platoon sergeant was on the net to shoot, I’m breathing in-cycle, timing each stationary target, and one that was only about
with Major Dan trying to get clearance for me inhale and exhale, ensuring that I’m ready to 400 meters away.
to shoot the truck, ideally through the engine fire at a split-second’s notice when the call
compartment, and stop it. comes. Seconds stretched into minutes as I We had started tracking this vehicle at 1,000
waited for the call. As the truck’s lights began meters and now it was rolling, unseen, toward
It now seemed like a near-death experience, to fade from view like a setting sun, I began to my crosshairs at 840 meters. Inhale, exhale,
when time slows to a crawl. Where’s the damn give up hope. It’s too late … inhale, exhale …
authorization to shoot? I thought. I watched the
truck through my scope, and I could see that its “Shit, lost him,” Marc said under his breath. I was trying to get the lineup just perfect and
headlights would soon fade behind the large rock focused on a spot on the road behind the
NOVEMBER-DECEMBER, 2018 127

Mission Notes
MISSION
Capture a high-value target

TEAM
Rangers

LOCATION
Southeast of Kandahar, Afghanistan

TIME OF DAY
Night

I could hardly believe it. Sure, we train for it,


we’re confident and we do think we’re pretty
damn good. But we also calculate first-round-
hit probability. Over half a mile, in the blind,
on a moving vehicle, and that .30-caliber
bullet had to go straight through the aluminum
engine block and make the engine seize.

mountain. I knew the truck would be the same copper-jacketed lead should have dipped From “The Killer Man It must have buried in the motor somehow,
Comes” by Paul Martinez
distance away as the gas station, and I knew below the false horizon between us and the and reprinted by permis- because a miss or a near-miss would have sent
sion of St. Martin’s Press,
from studying the map where the road was target. Never losing my sight picture was an LLC; us.macmillan.com. frag into the cab, or else made enough light
behind the mountain, so I pictured exactly indication I had gotten off a good shot. and noise that the drivers would know they
where that should be, measured in my scope, were being shot at.
and placed my crosshairs there. Marc and I had I was confident the round had gone where
U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Gregory T. Summers / 22nd Mobile Public Affairs Detachment

already calculated vehicle speed, and I could I wanted it to—into the engine block of the In all humility, I began to thank my lucky stars,
see the point in my mind. If we had calculated target vehicle. but my platoon sergeant quickly shook me back
correctly, my bullet would meet the target into reality.
vehicle at 840 meters. The net cleared, and I simply said, “Sierra, shot, out.”
“Sierra, did you just shoot a truck you couldn’t
I was dialing in my scope elevation when There was an eerie silence for what seemed see and stop it with one round?” he asked.
I heard my platoon sergeant key his mic. I like an eternity before I heard a calm voice say,
knew what he was going to say—that we no “He’s slowing down.” Saying he sounded incredulous would be a
longer had eyes on. I squeezed the trigger gross understatement.
before he could utter the words I didn’t want Then another voice: “Roger, looks like he’s
to hear as my own thoughts came to the stopping … break … we have four pax exiting “Yep!” Marc chimed in, quicker than I could
fore: We didn’t load up two full platoons of the vehicle.” (Pax means persons.) “Now the think of what to say. “That’s why we call
Rangers to do nothing. hood’s up.” him Balls.”

The recoil of my .30 caliber sent the big Another voice broke in on the net. “Must have Marc was right. There were no lucky stars to
rifle back into my shoulder hard, while the engine trouble.” thank; we were trained to exacting standards
scope accelerated toward my eye. But I by the best instructors in the world at both the
never lost my sight picture, and I saw my MISSION ACCOMPLISHED U.S. Army Sniper School and the Special Forces
crosshairs fixed on where I knew the target Marc cast me an incredulous look that I could Sniper Course. We were in the business of the
was all the way through the violent recoil. barely see in the dark, but I could read his impossible, and we were expected to be able
By the time my rifle settled, 190 grains of thoughts: “You did it!” to make shots like this.
128 WORLD OF FIREPOWER
NOVEMBER-DECEMBER, 2018 129
130 WORLD OF FIREPOWER

Pistol
Maintenance
When properly maintained, firearms can be expected
to function properly. Maintenance must be performed
periodically because it will guarantee that your pistol will last
and function when needed.

Cleaning
Supplies
Some people prefer ultrasonic cleaner, but I prefer getting
my hands dirty. Keep in mind that certain chemicals can
damage your wood grip panels or your nickel-plated steel
gun, so read the label. Cotton swabs, old t-shirts or hand
towels will definitely come in handy. To save time cleaning
barrels, I attach my bore brush rod to a hand drill and use it
to speed up the process.

Field
Stripping
Safety first! Clear your firearm of any live ammunition
and keep ammunition away from the cleaning area.
Field stripping is the easiest way to clean your gun. Just
disassemble the major parts (frame, barrel, slide, recoil
spring assembly), spray your chemical and let everything
set. After a few minutes, start brushing. I field strip all my
pistols after every 500 rounds.

Detail
Stripping
Most gun manufacturers recommend that you detail strip
your pistol every 5,000 rounds. Caution! Don’t just detail
strip your gun without proper training. I highly recommend
that you take it to a certified armorer or attend an armorer’s
course to learn proper gun disassembly.

Function
Checks
Function checks are a must after every detail stripping. This
will ensure that you have installed all the parts in the right
places and help you determine if the internal parts need
replacement. Here are some tips:
With an unloaded gun, close the slide, insert an empty
magazine and release it three times. The magazine should drop
freely. If not, something is wrong with your magazine catch/
release or the magazine itself.
Next, with the empty magazine in the magazine well, pull the

Keep Your Gun slide to the rear. This should lock the slide/action open. Do this
three times. If the slide fails to lock to the rear, check your slide
catch/release.

Functioning
Next, release the magazine. Pull the slide back and release it.
The slide should move forward into battery. If not, check your
slide catch/release.
Now, engage the external safety and pull the trigger. The

Properly
trigger should not release the striker. If you have a trigger
safety, pull the sides of the trigger without engaging the trigger
safety. If the trigger pulls, replace the trigger assembly.
Last, pull the slide back. While holding the slide, let it move
TEXT BY SIMON CRUZ
forward about an inch, going into battery, and release it. The
slide should go into battery on its own. If not, replace your
recoil spring assembly.

The final function check is to fire your gun at a shooting range.

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