World of Fire Power - 2014 04 (Apr)

VOL.
2 ISSUE 7 APRIL 2014

U.S. $8.99 DISPLAY UNTIL: 4/15/14
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Engaged Media By Beckett
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4 WORLD OF FIREPOWER
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PICTORIALS
8 Beauty & Guns
9 Just Photos
120 Beauty & Guns
COLUMNS
6 First Words
12 Front Sight
18 Hot Gear
130 final Shot
COVER STORY
Compact and Deadly
The word badass is thrown
around more than a pigskin in
Mile High Stadium on a Sunday
afternoon, but that word is 100
percent on target for the
TAVOR.
By Terrill Hoffman
38
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86
28
100
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WORLD OF FIREPOWER 5
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FEATURES
22 Against All Odds
This hot chick was nude on TV during
primetime. And it gets even better:
She can also handle a gun.
By Sean Cooper
27 Adventure Introduction
28 Ultimate Driving Machine
This car is designed to withstand attacks
from grenades, AK-47s and chemical
warfare. You thought the guys in
BMWs marketing department were
geniuses. What else would you call this
ultimate driving machine?
By Torrey Kim
32 battle against evil
Insurgents. IEDs. A firefight.
Its all in a days work
for the U.S. Marine Corps.
By Doug Jeffrey
46 elite Weapon System
Alon Stivi may be the luckiest dude in the
world. He went out and tested the TAVOR
for us and got paid for it.
By Alon Stivi
58 All-Pro
This is not just another Top 10 List. This is
worlds top 10 combat automatic pistols.
By Leroy Thompson
64 Power Boost
Hunter? Competitor? Target shooter?
Regardless of your category, the S&W
M&P10 is a gun you need to seriously take
a close look at.
By Brad Fitzpatrick
70 Novice to Marksman
If you want to shoot like a pro,
learn from a pro.
By Karla Herdzik with Sean Cooper
74 Achieving Sweetness
One of the industrys most respected and
knowledgeable writers explains how to
make your revolver perform its best.
By Chuck Taylor
86 Train with a Purpose
If better skill and more speed are two
attributes youd like to add to your skill
set, check out the Anschutz MSR RX22.
By Terrill Hoffman
8
BUYERS
GUIDES
100 Gotcha Covered
Compactness, durability, reliability To find seven
more reasons to buy the Ruger LCP, go straight to
page 100.
By Dave Spaulding
102 The Right Formula
If youre struggling with barrel length and its impact
on maximum efficiency, you wont be after this.
By Chuck Taylor
108 Stand Out From the Crowd
You can handle a gun, but can you handle an
emergency like a catastrophic earthquake or major
hurricane? Not without this survival kit.
By Tony Nester
110 Specialized Perfection
Win, win. Leupolds Mark2 tactical scope is
ideal for tactical precision rifles, and it doesnt cost
a lot.
By Chuck Taylor
Section: Military
122 Introduction
123 20/20
Marines love the new grenade launcher sight for at
least three reasons.
By Suzann Lapi
124 Serious Firepower
Take a little stroll down history lane as we explore
the flamethrowers role in in combat.
By Eric Kowal
126 72 Hours in Australia
Firepower was there when the U.S. military and the
Australian Army joined forces for three days of live-
fire training.
By Sgt. Sarah Fiocco
Q&A
96 Technological Pioneer
Find out what role FLIR is playing in the War on
Terror.
By Doug Jeffrey
96
52 Rifle Rests
80 GPS
TOC.EP.CX 1/9/14 10:54 PM Page 5
N ONE SIDE OF THE
WORLD, HE SAT.
ALONE. IN FRONT OF
A COMPUTER SCREEN.
Looking back, on this side of
the world, was his familya
beautiful wife and three young
girls.
Happy birthday, Dad, two of
them said in perfect unison.
He smiled.
I miss you, Daddy, and I hope
you can come home soon.
The footage cut to military
helicoptersblades cutting pow-
erfully through the airand pa-
trols, all of which were occurring
in faraway lands places most
of us have never been. Places
that cause families great pain.
Good night, Daddy.
Silently, the member of
Airborne stared at the screen.
BEST 6 MINUTES
I had been watching a
segment of ESPNs Sports Center,
but I was headed for the remote
to turn the TV off. Had five more
seconds elapsed, I never would
have heard the anchor say
something about the military
and Veterans Day.
Fortunately, I heard those
magical words, so I paused and
stood, frozen with overwhelming
emotion, as ESPNs Veterans Day
tribute to the military, with
Daughtrys Home playing in
the background, began. Tears
rolled down my cheeks.
TWENTYNINE PALMS,
ENDLESS FAMILIES
While thinking back on that
six-minute video, I considered all
the reasons why this segment hit
me so hard.
Lets start with Sept. 11, 2001.
I can still see those people
jumping out of the burning
buildings, and I know how many
first responders ran into the
towers to never be seen again.
And who went after Al Qaeda?
Our military.
Its also observing our Marines
at Twentynine Palms training.
Its knowing that people like
my dad once served and that
your brother and sister or sons
and daughters are serving right
now, putting their lives on the
line for you and me.
OUR RESPECT IS GREAT
When the member of the
Airborne landed at home, he
quickly jumped out of his SUV,
dashed around the front of the
car, ran to his family, dropped to
his knees and hugged them.
Alone no more. Welcome
back, sir.
In reality, he, and every other
person who serves, is never
alone. We support you, we are
by your side and we will never
leave. For our country is free
because of you. May you all
come home to a greeting like
those shown in that video.
Sure, the country designates
Nov. 11 as Veterans Day, but we
celebrate and honor you every
day.
Live strong.
BY DOUG JEFFREY
VOLUME 2, ISSUE 7 / April 2014
EDITORIAL
Editor: Doug Jeffrey
Editor At Large: Chuck Taylor
Consulting Editors: Paul Hantke, USMC retired;
Eric Kowal, veteran, military affairs specialist
Contributing Editors: Terrill Hoffman, Torrey Kim
Managing Editor: Elise Portale
Creative Director: Eric Knagg
CONTRIBUTORS
Dave Alan, Sean Cooper, Sarah Fiocco, Brad Fitzpatrick,
Erin Hatfield, Kerry Michael Li, Tony Nester, Apostolos
Paul Papapostolou, Paul Peterson, Dave Spaulding,
Alon Stivi, Leroy Thompson
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Were Here on Facebook
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IM GOING HOME
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CAMP DWYER, Helmand
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staged at the motor pool for
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THE SPECIFICATIONS
ARE AS CLOSE TO PERFECT
AS THEY CAN BE.
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SWEAT-INDUCING
INTENSITY
The Americans. The
Walking Dead. NCIS.
Blue Bloods.
Injecting a little dose of
drama and intensity into
your life is as simple as point-
ing the remote at the boob
tube.
But why?
If youre talking about
adrenaline-pumping, kick-ass
drama and sweat-inducing
intensity, this is where you
need to be. The following
pictorial is sick. Plain sick.
Thats what were talking
about.
The Blue Force Gear Ten-
Speed pouches use military-
grade elastic combined with
ultralight Helium Whisper
MOLLE attachment to create
a multiuse pouch that is sim-
ple to use, weighs little and
lays flat when not in use.
www.blueforcegear
.com
PHOTOS.EP 1/7/14 2:19 AM Page 9
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The SureFire SOCOM556-RC Fast-Attach
suppressor is the worlds most advanced
5.56mm rifle suppressor. Selected for the M4
and MK18 carbines by U.S. Special Operations
Command after placing first in the most ex-
tensive and rigorous suppressor testing ever
conducted, it also received the USSOCOM of-
ficial safety verification in support of fielding.
www.surefire.com
The powerful and
versatile SureFire X300
Ultra Weapon Light for
handguns and long
guns features a high-
performance LED that
generates 500 lumens
of stunning white
light focused by a Total
Internal Reflection (TIR)
lens to produce a tight
beam with extended
reach and significant
surround light for pe-
ripheral vision.
www.surefire.com
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S A GUN ENTHUSIAST, DOESNT IT
DRIVE YOU CRAZY WHEN THE GOOD
GUY UP ON THE SILVER SCREEN HAS AN
ENDLESS SUPPLY OF BULLETS?
Heres to the time he didnt the early
1970s.
One pull of the trigger of a fully automatic
weapon can empty the entire magazine in a
couple of seconds. And most of the bullets
spray up into the air from the kickback any-
way. So where do Hollywood heroes get a
magical, invisible, endless supply of bullets
from? The Ammo Fairy?
How I miss the days of Clint Eastwoods
iconic Dirty Harry Callahan asking, I know
what youre thinking: Did he fire six shots or
only five? Well, to tell you the truth, in all this
excitement, Ive kind of lost track myself
youve got to ask yourself one question: Do I
feel lucky? Well, do ya, punk?
At least Dirty Harry counted his shots.
Kerry Michael Li lives and writes in Los
Angeles. He watches way too many movies.
INSIDE HOLLYWOOD
I
DO YOU FEEL LUCKY, PUNK?
A
BY KERRY MICHAEL LI
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WELL, TO TELL YOU
THE TRUTH, IN ALL
THIS EXCITEMENT, IVE
KIND OF LOST TRACK
MYSELF YOUVE
GOT TO ASK YOUR-
SELF ONE QUESTION:
DO I FEEL LUCKY?
FRONTSIGHTS.EP 1/7/14 2:39 AM Page 12
HE SIG SAUER ACADEMY IS
INSPIRING YOUTH SHOOTERS
ONE AT A TIME.
The Academy has become the latest
company to create a special discount
program for the Scholastic Pistol Pro-
gram (SPP).
SPP is a great way to get young
adults into the sport of action shoot-
ing, says Adam Painchaud of the SIG Sauer Academy. "The SIG Sauer
Academy is world famous for our level of training, so it's only natural
for us to help the next generation of action competitors.
Scott Moore, SPP director, says these types of discount programs
are important to the continued growth of the program.
The discount programs are just one of the many benefits of be-
longing to SPP. Teams, coaches and athletes can now receive special
pricing on pistols, ammunition, ear and eye protection, .22 LR conver-
sions, timers and targets. SPP also offers a chance for young adults to
YOUTH COMPETITION
I
INSPIRING YOUTH
COMPETITORS
T
compete for state, regional and national champi-
onships. In addition to these discounts, SPP also sup-
plies liability insurance and coaches training.
The Scholastic Shooting Sports Foundation (SSSF) is
responsible for all aspects of the Scholastic Clay Tar-
get Program (SCTP) and Scholastic Pistol Program
(SPP) across the United States, including participant
registration, coaches, state coordinators, state and
national championships, promotion, communications,
websites, public relations and growth strategies.
Learn More
CALL
(419) 794-9924
ONLINE
www.sssfonline.com
Beyond
Shooting Skills
SCTP and SPP are youth
development programs in
which adult coaches and vol-
unteers model sportsman-
ship, responsibility, honesty,
ethics, integrity and team-
work while using shooting
sports programs to teach
these and other positive life
skills to the athletes.
S
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S
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Zach Williams
Scholastic Pistol Program (SPP)
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(continued on page 16)
THE FUN RANGE BY ANGELO SCALISE
AGLE IMPORTS, INC.,
FLEW HIGH RECENTLY.
The importers of the Bersa line of
firearms and exclusive distributor of the
Metro Arms family were stoked to see
the BP9CC pistol make an appearance
on the hit TV show The Good Wife.
The TV drama, which celebrated its
100th episode with The Decision Tree,
the episode featuring the BP9CC pistol,
is a series that focuses on Alicia Florrick
(Julianne Margulies) and Peter Florrick
(Chris Noth), Cook County states attor-
ney and her former husband, following
a very public sex and corruption scandal.
In the episode, the character Kalinda
Sharma (Archie Panjabi) discusses the
merits of the Bersa with Jenna (Jordana
Spiro), a female cop employed by the
person of interest Kalinda is assigned to
tail. While Jenna admits to carrying a
competitors brand, Kalinda expresses
her loyalty to her tried-and-true Bersa
pistol.
MANUFACTURERS
IN THE MEDIA
I
FLYING LIKE
AN EAGLE
E
3 Quick Facts
1
The BPCC was the
first Bersa polymer
frame handgun
specifically designed
for concealed carry,
personal protection.
2
The BPCCs er-
gonomic design im-
proves line-of-sight
and provides
greater control dur-
ing use.
3
The BPCC features
accuracy and fire-
power in a light-
weight, compact,
ultra-thin handgun.
Other Bersa Appearances
2011
NCIS: The Video Game
B
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R
S
A
2012
The movie Black Out
2013 Trijicon, Inc. Wixom, MI USA

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TRIJICON 1-6x24 VCOG
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Single AA Battery Bullet Drop Compensating & Ranging Reticle
Six Adjustable Brightness Settings Waterproof Made in the USA
FP_1404_15 1/6/14 10:23 PM Page 15
EAVE IT TO
BLACKHAWK!
TO PULL A HAT TRICK.
The BLACKHAWK! line of
holsters was recently named
the 2013 Holster Brand of the
Year as part of the annual
OpticsPlanet Brilliance Awards.
This marks the third consecu-
tive year the BLACKHAWK!
brand has received the award
for Holster Brand of the
Year.
Its an honor to receive
two Brilliance Awards, says
BLACKHAWK! Brand Director
Chuck Buis. To be chosen a
third consecutive year as the
Holster Brand of the Year is a
testament to consumers trust
in BLACKHAWK! products and
recognition of our commit-
ment to producing the best
tactical and duty gear in the
marketplace.
The BLACKHAWK! SERPA
Level 3 Tactical Holster was
also awarded the Experts Pick
for Best Tactical Holster.
HONORS & RECOGNITION
I
Three-Peat for BLACKHAWK!
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Used By?
The BLACKHAWK! line of holsters of-
fers a multitude of carry options for
shooting enthusiasts, law enforcement
members and military personnel. The
U.S. Marine Corps, U.S. Special Opera-
tions Command and German army,
along with numerous law enforcement
departments, rely on BLACKHAWK!
holsters during service every day.
Check Them Out
ON THE WEB
www.blackhawk.com
BY PHONE
(800) 694-5263
BERSA
EW DANIELSON IS AN OPTIMIST
BY NATURE.
But even he felt that turning the fortunes of the
near-bankrupt Engineering and Prototype Services
(EPS) around would be a monumental task. An en-
gineer by trade, Danielson understood that he
would never be able to keep the company solvent
without the support of his entire staff. For the
company to succeed, they had to believe.
This is the story of Crimson Trace.
1 COMPANY VISION
I was fortunate enough that most of the em-
ployees were young enough and nave enough to
believe it could be done, Danielson says of the en-
gineering company. We met at 6:00 each morn-
ing, we took turns leading morning exercises and
we repeated the companys vision, one line of
which stated, We all own part of everything.
Danielsons belief in the people that worked for
him paid off. After just one year, the company
earned record profits.
2 THE NEXT IDEA
That success gave Danielson the breathing room
to move forward with another line item, a
prototype of a laser that could be fitted to a
gun to increase accuracy.
My two loves have always been motorcy-
cles and guns, Danielson says.
The Woodland, Calif., native used to ride
around with a rifle scabbard attached to his
bicycle as a kid, and since those days, hed
never lost his passion for firearms.
3 THE NEXT STEP
Danielson assembled his team at the rein-
vigorated EPS and approached them with a
new idea the first prototype for a laser
seamlessly integrated into a Glock handgun.
Our goal was to address all the problems
associated with lasers of the time and develop
the concept into the finest laser the world had
ever seen, Danielson says.
Mondays through Thursdays were reserved
for work on EPS at the Portland, Ore., plant.
Fridays through Sundays became Crimson
Trace days.
Because Danielsons team was comprised of en-
gineers and toolmakers with the knowledge and
the equipment to design new products, they
began building the first Crimson Trace lasers in-
house.
4 ONE SETBACK
Bit by bit, the full-time EPS employees saw their
part-time dream become a reality. The company in-
corporated in 1994 and the first Crimson Trace pro-
totype lasers were ready for sale. Danielson hired a
major advertising firm to help him spread the
word about his new product. Six months and thou-
sands of dollars later, the move to hire an advertis-
ing firm had been a failure.
5 BACK ON TRACK
So, Danielson, a man of action and a self-pro-
claimed micromanager, took the fate of his fledg-
ling company into his own hands.
I walked down to Richs Cigar Shop in Portland,
Ore., he says, smiling behind his beard. Richs
had every magazine you could imagine. Rows of
them. So I picked up all the hunting and shooting
magazines I could find and I bought them. Then,
I started contacting
editors and sending out our products and litera-
ture. Telephone line four at the company became
the Crimson Trace line, and every employee in the
company, including myself, worked on the assem-
bly line.
After drawing some interest from gun editors,
Danielson began targeting gun shows, but the re-
ception was lukewarm at best. Most of the major
manufacturers werent interested. He was even
ushered out of one booth like an interloper, a snub
that Danielson has perhaps forgiven but not for-
gotten.
6 THE SHOT SHOW
He attended the 1995 SHOT Show, received the
same round of disinterested stares from company
executives, and then returned the next year with
laser grips built exclusively for the Ruger Mark II,
the Beretta 92 and the Colt 1911. He managed to
gather $10,000 worth of orders and invested that
money directly back into the company.
The following year, a rep from one of the com-
panies came to the Crimson Trace booth and dis-
cussed a partnership for Lasergrips.
7 THE CALL
The first real flood of business came with a
long-distance phone call from halfway around the
world.
The Singapore Police called and said they
wanted to provide lasers for all their officers,
Danielson says.
The Singapore deal became a major catalyst for
Crimson Trace, and the company used the new rev-
enue to increase their product lines and hire new
employees. Amazingly, throughout the entire de-
velopment of Crimson Trace, Danielson had never
borrowed a penny from the bank.
Brad Fitzpatrick, formerly an educator,
is a contributing writer to World of Firepower.
FACES OF FIREPOWER
I
7 Steps To Success
L
THE JOURNEY OF LEW DANIELSON, FOUNDER OF CRIMSON TRACE
Lew Danielson (rear) persevered to make Crimson
Trace a powerhouse in the firearms industry.
PHOTO BY BRAD FITZPATRICK
BY BRAD FITZPATRICK
Lew Danielson
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By the Numbers
150
The number of products
the company
currently has.
1
Annually, the number of
times the company hosts
the Midnight 3-Gun Shoot.
THE GUN
LIFESTYLE
SIMPLIFY AND
CUSTOMIZE WITH
LOGOS, CASES
AND CLEANERS
E GET BURIED.
AND THIS HAPPENS EACH AND EVERY DAY. WHICH
WE LOVE, AND YOU SHOULD, TOO.
WHY?
Manufacturers from around the world have locked onto our email inbox
and are firing releases about new products. The sweetest items end up here
and on our Facebook page.
Enjoy your gun lifestyle.
W
1
YOUR OWN TAILOR
CUSTOM LOGO DESIGNS FOR YOUR WHEELS, MORE
This is cool. You might call it your own
customized firearms tailor.
Showcasing some of your favorite
weapons, Royalty Core Truck Grilles & Acces-
sories makes custom logo designs for your
truck.
The latest and greatest to hit the market
is the custom Punisher Skull Logo with an
AK-47 and AR-15. Check out the photo, and
try not to drool. We pay good money for
this paper, dudes.
And dig this: Royalty Core adds the ulti-
mate touch to its product, as each logo is
designed with unreal details. Such as? Try
two-toned and airbrushed options.
These logos are essential for a custom
grille, but they can be used for other appli-
cations, such as trailers, side badges, tail-
gates, wheel caps, shops, signs, big-boy toys
the list goes on. Royalty Core logos are
easily switchable and only removable from
the backside, which protects your invest-
ment. Big time.
Included is a hardware kit with stainless
locking nuts that you twist on. The backside
of each logo has welded 10/32 threads and
1.25-inch length stainless studs hidden for
an easy universal installation.
And do you want to talk durability?
Royalty Cores proprietary corrosion
resistant stainless technology creates the
most durable logo on the planet, the com-
pany says.
Absolutely every piece is 100-percent
T304 stainless steel. Its engineered to ex-
ploit the cleanest installation possible. Roy-
alty Core builds its logos with a 12-gauge
stainless steel construction, optimal mount-
ing brackets, CNC precision-machined logo
and backing. The product is hand fabricated,
all gloss surfaces are buffed to a deep
smooth mirrored finish and there is ab-
solutely no plastic.
Tell your neighbor your tailor kicks his
tailors ass.
Hot Gear
How To Reach Them
WEBSITE
www.royaltycore.com
PHONE
(541) 343-3643
The
Materials
1
Every piece is
100-percent
T304 stainless
steel.
2
Royalty Core
builds their
logos with a
12-gauge
stainless steel
construction,
optimal
mounting
brackets, CNC
precision-ma-
chined logo
and backing.
3
The items are
hand fabri-
cated.
4
All gloss sur-
faces are
buffed to a
smooth mir-
rored finish.
5
Absolutely no
plastic is used.
More Than Just Trucks
The custom logo designs can
also be used on the following:
Trailers
Side badges
Tailgates
CHECK OUT THE
PHOTO, AND TRY
NOT TO DROOL.
WE PAY GOOD
MONEY FOR THIS
PAPER, DUDES.
Wheel caps
Shops, signs
Big-boy toys
CUSTOM
LOGO
DESIGNS
GEAR.EP.qxP 1/7/14 10:51 PM Page 18
3
BLAST AWAY
GX2 DEFENSES SELF-HEALING
TARGETS
If Santa didnt deliver this,
put it on your birthday list:
GX2 Defenses self-healing tar-
gets.
Shooters can utilize this
durable, flexible polymeric self-
healing shooting target, with
built-in 3D rings and bullseye,
for thousands of rounds. The
durable flexible polymeric ma-
terial allows the target to
mend its own wounds and pre-
vents the target from breaking down or breaking apart,
giving it a very impressive durability factor and lifespan.
Get Up Close
WEB
www.gx2defense.com
GO TACTICAL
THE ULTIMATE IN FIREARMS CASES
TARGETS
Some Key
Numbers
29.95
In dollars, the lower
range of price
59.95
In dollars, the higher
price range
There we were, walking down aisle after aisle at a
recent trade show, checking out some of the coolest
firearms products known to man. And thats when it
caught our eye the Cloak & Dagger series from
TKL Outdoors.
These concealment cases feature the guitar, banjo, viola and trombone.
All cases are offered in a universal style or silhouette style for most
firearms, including pistols, revolvers, rifles and shotguns. Each Cloak & Dag-
ger series concealment case comes with the TKL Outdoors Innovative 24/7
Protection.
The Cloak & Dagger Series case line is the ideal choice for demanding
tactical operations, TKL says.
Why?
TKL Tactical cases are
designed to offer su-
perior protection dur-
ing transport or when
storing your firearms.
The series comes in
hard shell, Pro-Form or
Vectra molded series,
Diamond Black Carbon
Fiber and Zero Gravity
cases.
What Does Self-Healing Mean?
The target material expands upon bullet entry and immediately contracts upon bullet exit, preventing
the target from breaking apart or blowing out. The flexible nature of the material provides an impres-
sive durability factor and lifespan. The companys material will mend its own wounds by closing up
entry and exit points up to 98 percent of the way in ideal situations and or settings.
GX2 Defense does note that results will vary based on caliber, grain, distance and concentration of
hits and/or groupings.
2
Where To
Find Them
WEB
www.tkloutdoors.com
ANOTHER SOURCE
Your law enforcement distributor
Whats Your Style?
Guitar
Banjo
Viola
Trombone
The Launch of Diamond Black
TKL didnt stop there.
The company recently announced the all-new line of Diamond Black Carbon Fiber Firearms
and Storage Cases. Every Diamond Black case is available with the patented advanced interlink
construction molded interior foaming process, which creates a fully customized silhouette
(design fit) or universal (general) interior for most firearms and accessories.
And youll love this: The Diamond Black Carbon Fiber case line offers exceptional strength-
to-weight ratios. The Diamond Black Carbon Fiber product offerings are the lightest, yet
strongest cases available in the market today.
TACTICAL
CASES
4
START A REVOLUTION
CREATIVE WALLET ADAPTS TO A MODERN WORLD
Why not wallets?
Everything else can be
customized.
The new HuMn Wal-
let 2 is a sleek, minimal-
ist wallet that is
designed with aluminum
or carbon-fiber plates
and a durable elastic
shock strap to take the
place of a traditional
leather bi-fold wallet.
The cool, contemporary
design provides all the
necessary functions of a
wallet and eliminates
the bulkiness and incon-
venience of traditional
wallets.
It's practical by al-
lowing access to the
items you need in a con-
cise and efficient man-
ner, the company says.
Some Key
Numbers
76
In dollars, the lower
price range
114
In dollars, the higher
price range
5
Just thank RamRodz Inc.
You can ditch your cotton
patches, rags and attachments.
Why?
These badasses created a new
line of gun barrel and breech
cleaners with their simple-to-use,
all-purpose cleaning system.
Heres how it works.
Mounted on 8-inch flexible bam-
boo handles and available in five
caliber sizes, RamRodz will handle
the cleaning duties on all internal
gun parts, including barrels, bolts,
slides, chambers, breeches, maga-
zine housings and more. They fea-
ture specially designed industrial
cotton tips that absorb solvents
without dripping, expand deep
into the rifling grooves and release
solvent only when pressure is ap-
plied.
RamRodz provide a far superior
cleaning performance than existing
methods without the splatter or
More Facts
Available in
six sizes, includ-
ing .22,
.38/.357/9mm,
.40, .45, .50 and
a special 3-inch
breech-cleaner
model, RamRodz
are perfect for
cleaning virtually
every component
of a gun.
Dig Deeper
EMAIL
customerservice@ramrodz.com
WEBSITE
www.ramrodz.com
Find Them Online
www.humnwallet.com
Know This, Too
CUSTOMIZATION
The HuMn Wallet 2 can be config-
ured in two or three powder-
coated aluminum or carbon-fiber
plates in a variety of colors.
PREVENTS
ELECTRONIC THEFT
The plates protect you from elec-
tronic theft by shielding your credit
cards from EMI and RFID
skimming.
MINI WALLET
The carbon fiber HuMn Wallet Mini
offers all the features of the HuMn
Wallet 2 but in an even smaller
package.
RAMRODZ PROVIDE A FAR SUPERIOR CLEANING PERFORMANCE
THAN EXISTING METHODS WITHOUT THE SPLATTER OR MESS.
IAN VINCI, PRESIDENT OF RAMRODZ INC.
mess, explains Ian Vinci,
president of RamRodz.
They are a disposable,
inexpensive and versatile
innovation that allows
the user to clean areas of
a firearm that simply can-
not be reached with
other products.
SLOW NO MORE
GUN CLEANING IS NOW
EASIER THAN EVER
LIFESTYLE
GEAR
GUN
CLEANING
FP-1404_21 1/6/14 10:25 PM Page 21
9v 3mM 000M +0103 9v 0LL J0LM
OR MANY MILITARY
PERSONNEL, THE
TRANSITION TO
CIVILIAN LIFE CAN BE
VERY DIFFICULT. MANU TOIGO
WAS NO EXCEPTION.
After breaking her knee and
being medically discharged from the
Australian military, it took her a
decade of wandering around with-
out a soul until she found her true
calling in life: acting.
Today, Toigo is a television star,
drawing from her years of experi-
ence in the military. Shes currently
starring in the hit reality TV show
Naked and Afraid. Toigo has be-
come more popular than she could
have ever imagined, receiving hun-
dreds of fan letters daily. While her
career on TV is interesting, her tale
of how she got there is extraordi-
nary.
F
AGAINST ALL
THE BEGINNING
Growing up on a sugar cane farm
in North Queensland, Australia, Toigo
was surrounded by wilderness at
every bend. A tomboy at heart, Toigo
had regular encounters with some of
the deadliest wildlife on the planet.
Natural disasters added to the dan-
ger. Before she was 15, she had sur-
vived several near-death experiences.
As a young child growing up on a
farm, cyclones were [also] a common
occurrence, she says. Being in such
an isolated area, the military used to
come in and give us food and water.
Its from there that my interest in the
military really grew, and I knew thats
what I wanted to do when I grew
up.
Although Toigo became quite
adept with her survival skills, she
needed a new set of survival skills
in the military.
THE ONE THING
THAT I DID LEARN
WAS TO SHOW
NO FEMININITY
OR WEAKNESS.
MANU TOIGO, ABOUT
LIFE IN THE MILITARY
SURVIVAL REALITY TV STAR, VETERAN MANU TOIGO,
BREAKS BARRIERS FOR WOMEN EVERYWHERE
PROFILE.EP.qxP 1/7/14 11:22 PM Page 22
ODDS
Manu Toigo (above), who spent
eight years in the Australian military,
was among the first group of
women to be posted to the
Operational Deployment Forces.
NAKED AND
AFRAID WAS THE
CHALLENGE I HAD
BEEN WAITING FOR
TO ULTIMATELY
TEST MY PRIMITIVE
SURVIVAL SKILLS
MANU TOIGO
Rules of Engagement
Naked and Afraid
Naked and Afraid takes survival of the fittest to
the next level.
Each week, a new pair of complete and total
strangersone man and one womanfind them-
selves stranded in and, quite literally, exposed to
some of the world's most extreme weather environ-
ments. Each duo will be left high and dry with no
food, no water ... and no clothes. They must survive
on their own for a full 21 days with nothing but one
personal item each and the knowledge that the only
prize is their pride and sense of accomplishment.
That expression shows that she means business.
Manu: Up Close
Name: Manu Toigo
Age: 44
Residence: California
Occupation: Special operations training,
executive protection agent
Relationship Status: In a relationship
Survival Skills: Shelter building, environ-
ment adaptation, primitive fire-making,
hunting and gathering
ARMY LIFE
At the ripe age of 17, Toigo made the bold
move of enlisting in the Australian Army, where
she faced many challenges and obstacles, including
being in a field traditionally for men.
I never once thought about quitting, remarks
Toigo, who was initially assigned as an attach for
the Armored Corp Director. I was a tomboy. I
played with the guys. I was already toughened up
in that aspect. Yeah, its challenging, but I had to
adjust and adapt. The one thing that I did learn
was to show no femininity or weakness. Give them
a little glimpse, and youve lost your shield. That re-
ally separated me from all the other women, so I
stood out. I was no longer seen as just a woman
but someone who [could] hold her own.
That attitude enabled her to break barriers and
helped pave the way for women. Among other ac-
complishments, she endured a three-month train-
ing course run by the SAS (Special Air Service) as a
prerequisite for competing in the Brigade Military
Skills Competition, and she became the first
woman to compete in the competition.
That training enabled her to do more than just
excel as a member of the military.
Having an opportunity to be trained by SAS
and learn what it really took to go through that
kind of training was invaluable, says
Toigo, who was also a member of the
Operational Deployment Forces. I
knew the physical, mental and emo-
tional aspect of what it was going to
take, but I learned what it was to estab-
lish mind over body. It was just a mag-
nificent tool I learned which I have
carried throughout the rest of my life.
Being involved with that team made me
a stronger person and made me more
courageous to do things most women
would never do.
Eight years in the army also en-
hanced her abilities as a survivalist.
I started being a survivalist as a kid,
says the 44-year-old California resident.
Its just a natural
thing I was born with,
and the military just
added onto that.
Those skills she
learned growing up,
and later honed by the
military, served her
well for what lay
ahead.
HOW TO
SEE IT
THE SHOW
Naked and Afraid
WHEN
Sundays at 10/9C
WHERE
The Discovery Channel
PERSONAL DEMONS
It was an unfortunate injury that put an end to her mili-
tary career, but that was only the beginning of the prob-
lems.
After breaking my knee and being medically dis-
charged, it was seven years of surgeries and rehabilitation,
recalls Toigo.
And then it got worse. Similar to soldiers that suffer from
post-traumatic stress disorder, Toigo battled her own inner
demons. She had great difficulties accepting her military ca-
reer was over and adapting to civilian life.
I was walking around like I had lost my identity and my
soul, Toigo says. The military was everything I knew. I can
relate to soldiers coming back from Iraq and Afghanistan.
The military becomes your whole world. I kept thinking, I
dont belong here, I dont know how to interact. Its so for-
eign.
Showcasing the strength she has shown since childhood,
she worked her way out of it.
The military put me into acting classes, and that was
how I figured out, Wow, this is cool, Toigo exclaims. I
could bring up all this emotion and anger and be in a safe
place. It took a long time to learn a very valuable lesson and
that what makes me who I am today.
CREDIT TO THE MILITARY
Who she is today is an actress who has more than a
decade of acting experience under her belt.
For a lot of roles that I have had in short films, theater
and reality shows, Ive been able to draw from my military
career, both physically and emotionally, she says.
Toigos latest venture is the Discovery Channels Naked
and Afraid, which brought out a primitive side she had
lost touch with since her days on the farm in Australia.
Naked and Afraid was the challenge I had been wait-
ing for to ultimately test my primitive survival skills that I
had been fine-tuning for years, she says. This was a chal-
lenge that really tested how you handled each and every
situation or adversity that Mother Nature handed to you.
The key was to stay calm, always keep a positive attitude
and, of course, stay focused on the task and complete the
task against all odds and work with the jungle. You had to
be mentally prepared for the unknown and be an effective
leader.
Like everything else Manu Toigo has done in her life, she
excelled at both.
Sean Cooper is a Canadian resident, an outstanding jour-
nalist and a regular contributor to World of Firepower.
SOME HAVE ASKED IF THERE WAS ANY SEXUAL
ATTRACTION OR HAPPENINGS WITH MY SHOW
PARTNER. THE ANSWER IS ABSOLUTELY NOT.
MANU TOIGO, ABOUT HER ROLE ON THE SHOW
MANU
Manu Toigo grew up on a sugar cane
farm in North Queensland, Australia,
and she later enlisted in the army.
Q & A
Never an Issue to be Naked
Question: What was the
toughest part of the challenge?
Manu: Days three to five. Your body
goes into survival mode and starts to
utilize energy from your fat resources.
This results in severe low energy and
headaches. Your body also begins to
detox. Having gone through this
many times, I have always remained
on a clean diet and have gone Paleo.
Question: You werent just naked
on national TV. You bared it all,
including that cool tattoo, for the
entire world. Tell us what it was
like.
Manu: As a kid, I was nude a lot,
running around mainly in a pair of
knickers, all the way up to about 12.
At that point, my father started
yelling at me to put me clothes on. To
me, it was never an issue to be
naked. However, in this situation,
being so exposed to the elements
made it really tough. It made the
challenge so much more difficult to
emotionally and physically get
through each day.
Question: You must have about
three years worth of fan mail.
What kind of things did people
say?
Manu: Only a few odd balls have
come out in a less-than-mature man-
ner. Some have asked if there was
any sexual attraction or happenings
with my show partner. The answer is
absolutely not. We were dealing with
extreme elements of survival. Any
sexual thoughts were pushed to the
back, and survival took over.
Question: Youre sitting at home,
the phone rings: its Playboy, and
they ask you to pose. What do
you say?
Manu: Hah. Im not getting any
younger, thats for sure, but Id like to
say that I have a pretty good body for
my age and perhaps I am healthier
and fitter than the young ladies. If
that kind of offer was presented and
if the world sees me as Playboy ma-
terial, I would be most flattered.
a
d
v
e
n
t
u
r
e
PURE
RUSH
Whats
Inside
Ultimate Driving Machine
Battle Against Evil
AK-47s, grenades and chemical warfare.
Ah, the life of a BMW driver. Thats
right. Wait until you see what this
ultimate driving machine can do.
Life is challenging for a Marine, too,
and extremely rewarding, as youre about
to see.
So, if you want one of the coolest cars
to ever come off a production line or if
your career ambitions are locked onto the
USMC, we suggest you jump in, hold on
and shut up.
INSIDE THE ULTIMATE
DRIVING MACHINE, THE
HIGH-ADRENALINE LIFE
OF A U.S. MARINE
ADVENTURE_INTRO.EP.CX.qxP 1/9/14 10:55 PM Page 27
T REALLY IS THE
ULTIMATE DRIVING
MACHINE.
Your career and lifestyle
may bring inherent risks with
thembut that doesnt mean you
have to sacrifice safety when youre
traveling.
BMW, one of the worlds most
luxurious brands, has created a se-
ries of vehicles that allow you to
travel in complete style while re-
maining safe and secure on your
journey, no matter where it takes
you.
7 SERIES
The companys 7 Series High Se-
curity is the first sedan in the world
to be certified in accordance with
the BRV 2009 ballistic guideline and
also to meet the latest VR7 stan-
dards. This means that its specially
designed and produced steel and se-
I
ULTIMATE DRIV
curity glass completely protect the
passenger all around the car, includ-
ing the doors, roof and footwells.
In addition, the underside is pro-
tected against hand grenades and
other explosives while the 6-cen-
timeter-thick laminated glass is
coated with polycarbonate to pre-
vent glass splinters from falling into
the cars interior.
X5 CONCEPT
With the 7 Series High Security
already on the road, BMW further
expanded its armored vehicle offer-
ings with its new X5 concept vehi-
cle, which debuted at the 2013
Frankfurt International Motor
Show. The X5 Security Plus is a sport
utility vehicle that offers secure pro-
tection for up to four occupants
and can even keep you safe from
AK-47 fire. In addition, the win-
dows and other glass surfaces are
specially developed to protect you from
blunt weapon attacks.
A STEP FURTHER
Choosing between the sedan and the
SUV model wont be your only challenge
if youre looking for BMWs combination
of luxury and security. You can customize
your vehicle to include additional safety
features to meet your needs. Hidden mi-
crophones and loudspeakers can be in-
stalled to allow you to communicate with
those outside of the vehicle without hav-
ing to open the windows or doors. You
can also incorporate an attack alarm sys-
tem, a fire extinguisher and a tear gas
sensor to protect you from gas attacks.
The cars fresh-air system can turn on in
the event of a chemical attack, ensuring
fresh air to occupants if you cut off the
supply coming into the vehicle.
Torrey Kim is a contributing editor for
World of Firepower.
G
R
E
N
A
D
E

-

T
H
I
N
K
S
T
O
C
K

P
H
O
T
O
COOL.EP.qxP 1/8/14 12:29 AM Page 28
These Fortified BMWs Protect Against
Grenades, AK-47s, Chemical Attacks
9v 10MMv Mlm +0103 00uM13v 0- 9mm
V ING MACHINE
Dont Stop Here
To read more about BMWs security vehicles, visit the
companys website at www.bmw-security-vehicles.com.
The X5 Security Plus debuted at the 2013 Frankfurt
International Motor Show.
G
R
E
N
A
D
E

-

T
H
I
N
K
S
T
O
C
K

P
H
O
T
O
X5
7 SERIES
Retain Anonymity
Want the security of
an armored SUV but
dont want to announce
that your vehicle is
bulletproof?
BMW makes that easy by
building the X5s High Security
models side-by-side with the
companys regular production
models at the companys
South Carolina plant. There-
fore, even the most discerning
eye cant tell the difference
between the standard SUV
and the Security model
unless they start shooting
at it.
Calculate These Numbers
The 7 Series Provides Luxurious Power 6.2
The number of
seconds it takes the
760Li to go from
0 to 100
V12
The motor
544
The horsepower
5,250
The RPM
8
The number of speeds
in the automatic
transmission
AK-47s, blunt weapons,
no problem. The X5
Security Plus offers
secure protection for
up to four occupants.
A
K
-
4
7

I
C
O
N

-

T
H
I
N
K
S
T
O
C
K

P
H
O
T
O
,

A
K
-
4
7

P
H
O
T
O

-

D
A
V
E

A
L
A
N
G
R
E
N
A
D
E
,

B
I
O
H
A
Z
R
D

L
O
G
O

-

T
H
I
N
K
S
T
O
C
K

P
H
O
T
O
0 to 100
To find out how long it takes the 760Li High Security to
go from the first speed to the second, keep reading.
COOL.EP.NEW 1/12/14 9:41 PM Page 30
Whatcha Got, 7?
The 7 Series Specs
Specially designed and produced steel and security glass,
including the doors, roof and footwells
The underside is protected against hand grenades and other explosives
Six-centimeter-thick laminated glass is coated with polycarbonate to
prevent glass splinters from falling into the cars interior
By the Numbers
The X5 Concept
Vehicle
X5
Name of the Security Plus
sport utility vehicle
4
The number of occupants
who can be protected
in the car
47
The vehicle is secure
enough to provide
protection against the AK-47
Want a
Few Extras?
Hidden microphones and
loudspeakers to communicate
with those outside of the vehicle
Attack alarm system
Fire extinguisher
Tear-gas sensor
Fresh-air system can turn on in
the event of a chemical attack
THE X5 SECURITY PLUS IS A SPORT UTILITY VEHICLE THAT
OFFERS SECURE PROTECTION AND CAN EVEN KEEP YOU
SAFE FROM AK-47 FIRE.
THE UNDERSIDE IS PROTECTED
AGAINST HAND GRENADES
AND OTHER EXPLOSIVES
A
K
-
4
7

-

T
H
I
N
K
S
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G
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BATTLE AGA
USMC.EP.CX.qxP 1/9/14 10:56 PM Page 32
ATE WAS ETCHED DEEPLY
INTO HIS FACE.
Surrounded by dark glasses
and a head wrap, he stood qui-
etly, almost eerily, as if waiting
in line at a market, except his intentions
were deadly. He firmly gripped his automatic
rifle, a weapon he intended to kill Marines
with, and abruptly shuffled toward the win-
dow. He madly thrust the gun into the
Afghanistan air and sprayed the dusty city
with gunfire. As Marines scrambled for cover,
he pulled back inside, letting out a war cry in
the process.
Dressed in long sleeves, with the cuffs
carefully buttoned, another insurgent peered
out of the same third-story window and
fired. And then another. Hate rained down
upon the Americans.
As rocket-propelled grenade (RPG) explo-
sions rocked the city, the Marines, who were
on security patrol, made their way through
H
TRAINING
PREPARES
MARINES
FOR THE
REAL
WORLD OF
INSURGENTS
BY DOUG JEFFREY AND PHOTOS BY GUS ALONZO
GAINST EVIL
USMC.EP.qxP 1/9/14 2:21 AM Page 33
Under the Hood
Assault Amphibious Vehicle
MODEL
AAVP7A1
Quick Q & A
Amphibious
Assault Vehicle
Sgt. Michael Bell, vet-
eran of eight and one-
half years in the
Marine Corps, an-
swered the following
questions about the
AAV, which plays an
integral role in ITX.
The 26-year-old is
from Houston, Texas.
Q: What is the role
of the AAV in the
training?
Michael Bell: We are
a quick reaction force
to support the in-
fantry with whatever
they need. Currently,
we are on a resupply
mission and took the
commanding officer
to a meeting. We are
providing security
while he is in a meet-
ing.
Q: How does this
training compare
to reality in
Afghanistan?
Bell: This is very close
[to what Afghanistan
is like] and very good
training. From every-
thing from the way
the buildings look to
the local nationals.
ESSENCE OF TRAINING
This training, known as the integrating training exercise (ITX), occurred
at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif.
In this 30-day operation, which takes three to four months to plan, 3rd
Battalion, 5th Marines, whose responsibilities could entail stability opera-
tions from the low end of the spectrum in terms of conflict to full-on con-
ventional warfare at the top, train in a replica of an Afghanistan village.
The idea is to create a foreign environment with its own culture, its
own rules and its own language and then we drop Marines into it,
Capt. Charles Olmstead said.
For this operation, the cast includes 300 role players and 1,000
Marines. The role players, who are Afghani contractors, are given a script,
which could direct a contractor to do any number of things, such walk to a
patrol base and complain about Marines squatting in his house. He may
then say something along the lines of, This is my house, and you need to
Morale Boosters
When Marines are en-
gaged in this type of train-
ing, there are comforts
you can take to their posi-
tion to make life a bit more
bearable, Capt. Charles
Olmstead said.
In the cold, you get
some hot chow to them,
he said. In the summer,
you get buckets of ice to
them. Or you get them to a
main patrol base so they
can take a shower for the
first time in a month. That is
good for morale.
WEAPON SYSTEMS
Mark 19 40mm grenade launcher
50-caliber M2 Browning machine gun
The High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle (HMMWV) also plays a role in ITX.
the madness so they could confront the evil.
And then, abruptly, it stopped. No auto-
matic weapons fire. No RPGs. Stillness per-
meated the air. In the quiet, the insurgents
bolted for the door, scrambled down the
wooden stairs and sprinted into the street,
where their two cars sat just around the
first corner. As the vehicles sped away, dust
kicking up everywhere, the last insurgent
who jumped in hurled a final insult at the
Marines.
Off in the distance, a Huey and a Cobra
got the call. Like a pair of hawks swooping
in on their prey, they stormed into the hot
zone
leave. If you dont leave, you have to pay
me rent.
The idea is to see if the Marines can
solve the problem.
The purpose is to get that first expe-
rience in dealing with how frustrating it
can be talking to an interpreter here so
they dont get that frustrated in the real
world, Olmstead said. They will also
encounter people who are stubborn and
dont see life the same way they do. The
general idea is get that experience here
rather than the first time they step on
the street in Afghanistan.
Ambushes are also part of the scripted
training. The Marines may find them-
selves in a conventional ambush, or it
may occur in an improvised explosive de-
vice (IED) hot spot.
That is a great time to assess their
ability to fight their way out of it,
Olmstead said.
Because of the nature of the conflict,
the conditions are challenging and diffi-
cult, said the 34-year-old, five-year vet-
eran of the Corps.
The enemy looks just like the civilian
population until the moment they pick
up that AK-47 or place an IED, Olmstead
said.
To prepare for situations like that, the
Marines must maintain constant vigilance
and pay attention to the populations
cues and the mood of the vil, he said.
Marines have to think, Normally, this
time of the day, most people are in the
marketplace or someone is trying to sell
us stuff. Today, there is no one out. That
is a good indicator you are about to get
hit, he said.
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WHO
3rd Battalion,
5th Marines
WHAT
ITX Traning
WHERE
Twentynine
Palms, Calif.
WHEN
Fall 2013
WHY
Freedom
THEIR
CALL SIGN
Dark Horse
5 Ws
This Marine
was stationed
near police
headquarters.
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Other methods come into play to help distin-
guish the enemy during counterinsurgency or sta-
bility operations.
When the Marines get out there and patrol,
they take ownership of their vil, Olmstead said.
They get to know everyone.
But risks still exist.
The villagers are almost always sitting on the
fence because of the uncertainty in these types of
things, Olmstead said. The villagers wonder
how long the Americans will stay and if the Tal-
iban will come in and cut their head off after the
Americans leave.
The training also includes casualties, even
though they are only
using blank fire. If a
Marine is hit, his
comrades get him to a
helicopter and load him
onto the ship, at which
point he comes back to
life. This tests the
Marines in a number of
ways, including the
speed at which they get
help for the injured and
the usage of radio
equipment.
If a sergeant did
not have the right fre-
quency [and cannot call
for help quickly
enough], we tell him,
your friend just died,
Olmstead said. The
idea is for the Marines
to make mistakes here
so they do not make
them out there.
Lance Cpl. Jack Betolino was stationed in an
upper floor to protect the building he and Lance
Cpl. Luke Moore occupied.
We are not necessarily here to specifically sup-
port anyone, but we have that capability, said
Betolino, of Highland, Texas.
To provide that protection, the 25-year-old
manned an M240 Bravo medium machine gun.
This is a pretty good weapon that will estab-
lish base of fire, which is fire superiority, he said.
Its good for suppression, and it allows our 0311s
to move and get to their objectives. Basically, it
throws a lot of hate the enemys way.
BATTLEGROUND ASSESSMENT
The final phase of the training is a ground
battle assessment. On foot, Marines move
through the area where the fighting and casual-
ties occurred so they can photograph and video-
tape evidence. The purpose is to substantiate
that the only casualties are insurgents.
This is critical because the enemy will murder
children and leave them at the scene of one of
our attacks, hoping to discredit us and get head-
lines on the front page of the New York Times,
Olmstead said. We take photographs for intelli-
gence and for preserving the truth.
Marines also collect shell casings and weapons
because they can get fingerprints off brass and
the weapons. This allows them to determine
who the insurgents were in case they escaped
but are later stopped at a checkpoint, where
they can be apprehended.
Another phase of this requires Marines to talk
to the village elder to explain what transpired.
For example, they may have to explain they fired
a rocket into house that killed insurgents.
This conversation lets the local population
know what we are doing so when the Taliban
starts its propaganda we have the truth to com-
bat that, he said.
GOAL ACCOMPLISHED
Satisfaction was apparent in the captains
face.
As the Huey and Cobra roared overhead to-
ward the fleeing insurgents, he surveyed the
scene that lay in front of him. The shade that his
cover created on his face could not disguise the
joy that was apparent at a job quite well done.
THE ENEMY LOOKS
JUST LIKE THE CIVILIAN
POPULATION UNTIL THE
MOMENT THEY PICK UP
THAT AK-47 OR PLACE
AN IED. CAPT. CHARLES
OLMSTEAD
The Role of Coyotes
Prior to the training, Marines go through a class to prepare for the exercise. During and after the
training, coyotes provide coaching, teaching and mentoring to the Marines.
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the best rifes in the world. DDM4s are built to our own Mil-Spec+, featuring dozens of industry-
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MARTY DANIEL
FP_1404_37 1/6/14 10:29 PM Page 37
COMPACT A
THE TAVOR SAR IS A
BULLPUP WITH A NASTY BITE
RBAN WARFARE
SHRINKS THE SIZE OF
THE BATTLEFIELD,
AND THE MILITARY
MUST MATCH ITS
WEAPONS TO THIS CONFINED
ENVIRONMENT. THE ANSWER
FOR THE ISRAELI DEFENSE
FORCE WAS THE TAVOR A
BULLPUP WITH PLENTY OF BITE.
If patience is a virtue, firearm
enthusiasts must be very virtuous
people.
I have made this observation
because the TAVOR SAR, produced
by IWI US, Inc., is just now showing
up on the marketplace.
The TAVOR SAR (semi-automatic
rifle) is the civilian version of the
main battle rifle of the Israeli
Defense Force (IDF), and develop-
ment of this weapon began in the
mid-1980s.
TAVOR 101
Around 1982, IWI (Israel
Weapon Industries), in collabora-
tion with the IDF, began to develop
a weapon system that was capable
of both open-field conflict and
close-quarter engagements.
U
WORDS AND PHOTOS BY TERRILL HOFFMAN
CS_TAVOR.EP 1/8/14 1:11 AM Page 38
A ND DEADLY
In the late 1990s through the early 2000s, the
TAVOR underwent impressive testing, which in-
cluded limited field-testing in various IDF units.
In 2003, the IDF accepted the TAVOR rifle as
the standard-issued weapon for their infantry
troops. In 2012, IWI created IWI US, Inc., to en-
able the sales of its weapons in the United
States. The U.S. corporate headquarters in Harris-
burg, Pa., now handles marketing, sales, cus-
tomer service and manufacturing of IWIs TAVOR
SAR and the UZI Pro Pistol.
If you are wondering about the results of
these decades, the TAVOR is one of the most
compact and ergonomic battle rifles in existence.
Similar to rifles recently developed by other
countries, the TAVOR incorporates what has be-
come known as a bullpup design. This layout
places the pistol grip and trigger unit forward of
the chamber, bolt and magazine. In simpler
terms, the dead space usually occupied by the
buttstock now holds the functioning portion of
the action. This design allows the manufacturer
to supply a 16 -inch barrel while maintaining
and overall length of only 26 1/8 inches.
Know This
The shift in the center of gravity for the TAVOR
should enable greater control over the weapon
during quick movements and while firing.
The semi-automatic TAVOR is
chambered to fire the .223 Reming-
ton/5.56 NATO round and operates
with a closed rotating bolt and
long-stroke gas piston. As the bolt
moves forward, it strips a round
from the magazine and moves it
into the chamber. At that point,
the cam action rotates the bolt and
locks it in place. Once the round is
fired and the bullet travels past the
gas port, gases are vented off to
act against the gas piston. The pis-
ton then rotates the bolt to its un-
locked position, which travels
rearward, ejecting the empty car-
tridge case and starting the cycle
again.
The barrel has a 1:7 twist, and
both the bore and chamber are
chrome lined. The barrel is also
capped with a traditional bird-
cage-style flash hider. The one
drawback to the TAVOR is its rather
While the short length makes
the Tavor appear rather thick,
it is actually no wider than
the AR-15. You would be hard
pressed to find a more
compact battle rifle.
The Tavor is supplied
with a 30-round IWI
magazine but is
designed to handle
any standard AR
magazine.
THE MILITARY MUST MATCH
ITS WEAPONS TO THIS CONFINED
ENVIRONMENT. THE ANSWER FOR
THE ISRAELI DEFENSE FORCE WAS
THE TAVOR
What it Will
Run Ya
MSRP
$1,999
heavy two-stage trigger. The trigger is smooth when compared with the
designs used on various military rifles, but the weight of pull is in excess of
10 pounds.
The cocking handle is located on the left side of the rifle, above and for-
ward of the trigger. The two-position safety is mounted just above the pistol
grip on the left side.
The TAVOR is supplied with an IWI 30-round polymer magazine, but it will
accept any good quality AR15 magazine. The magazine well is located to the
rear behind the trigger with the magazine release in the front and bolt re-
lease to the rear. The empty magazines drop free, and with a little practice,
this setup provides rather quick reloads.
The rifle comes with a 14 -inch MIL-STD-1913 rail along the top of the
rifle and an additional 5 -inch section of rail on the right side above the
forward grip for add-on accessories. Basic fold-down iron sights are pro-
vided, which fold down into the top rail, but the IDF uses Meprolight M21
The Specs
TAVOR SAR
Caliber: 5.56 NATO
Action: Semi-auto
Operating System: Closed bolt,
long-stroke gas piston
Magazine: 30-round Polymer NATO
STANAG type
Barrel: 16 -inch, hammer forged,
1:7 twist
Overall Length: 26 inches
Weight: 7.9 pounds
Stock: Reinforced Polymer, bullpup
Sights: Folding front sight (blade)
and rear sight (aperture)
The magazine release and bolt
release are both located on the
centerline of the carbine, mak-
ing them accessible to both
right-handed and left-handed
shooters. The ergonomics of
the TAVOR are outstanding.
TAVOR SAR
Cool News
All the TAVOR parts are interchangeable and dont require
special fitting. This allows you to perform repairs.
What Is a Bullpup?
The pistol grip and trigger unit are forward of
the chamber, bolt and magazine.
Meaning the dead space usually occupied
by the buttstock now holds the functioning por-
tion of the action.
Reflex sights with their rifles and you can order your TAVOR with this unit.
Receptacles for QD sling loops are also mounted on the front and rear
of the rifle.
EXPLORE THE TAVOR
With the basic features covered, we can now explore the details that set
this rifle apart from the weapons of earlier times.
The main receiver of the TAVOR is an aluminum channel, which is built
into the one-piece synthetic stock. No tools are required to field strip the
rifle for cleaning. Simply push one pin and the butt pad will pivot, allowing
the removal of the entire bolt and breech block assembly. Once this unit is
removed, you can clean the barrel from the preferred chamber end.
By no means could you consider the TAVOR to have a loose fit between
parts, but there is space inside of the mechanism to allow the build-up of
dirt and grime without causing the rifle to fail to operate.
Also, all parts are interchangeable without special fitting, allowing the
user to perform any needed repairs.
At 7.9 pounds, the TAVOR may be shorter, but it is not lighter than other
battle rifles. The feature that a rifleman will have to adjust to is that this
weight is now moved closer to his body. The shift in the center of gravity
for the TAVOR should enable greater control over the weapon during quick
movements and while firing.
There is one aspect that must be mentioned: As supplied, the TAVOR is a
right-handed rifle. When mounted to the right shoulder, the ejection port
is directly opposite the shooters face. If you try to shoot it mounted to the
left shoulder, the port is next to your face and injury will occur.
However, IWI did not ignore the lefties. The total rifle can be reversed
3 Ways for Contact
OLD SCHOOL
IWI US, Inc.
P.O. Box 126707
Harrisburg, PA 17112
PHONE
(717) 695-2081
WEB
www.iwi.us
The fold-down sights may
be very basic, but they will
keep you in the fight
should your optics become
damaged. The Meprolight
M21 Reflex sight is the
preferred choice of the IDF.
The front sight is adjustable
for elevation, and both the
front and rear sights fold
out of the way when the
rifle is used with optics.
THE TAVOR IS
ONE OF THE MOST
COMPACT AND
ERGONOMIC
BATTLE RIFLES IN
EXISTENCE.
xx
TAVOR SAR
A short section of rail is found opposite
the charging handle for mounting
additional accessories. Once the rifle
is converted for left-handed use, this
rail and the charging handle switch
locations.
The TAVOR SAR
has that Star
Wars appearance,
but its ergonomics
only enhances its
usefulness in close
combat.
The safety is located above
the grip and can be switched
to the opposite side. You
cant switch hands during use,
but the rifle can be totally
converted for lefties.
The TAVORs barrel has a traditional
bird cage flash hider, similar to the
AR-15. It may be old-school, but
this flash hider design has proven to
be one of the best on the market.
from right-handed to left-handed with nothing more than a
left-handed bolt assembly. The safety and cocking handle can
be reversed with any additional parts. As well as the left-
handed conversion, IWI offers a 9x19 Parabellum conversion
unit for the TAVOR.
YOU WILL DIG IT
The TAVOR SAR looks different and feels different, which
will require some adjustments for the average shooter. Many
say they prefer this design once they get used to it, and IWI is
betting that you will have the same reaction.
Terrill Hoffman, once an aspiring Major League Baseball
player, is now one of the most talented writers and
photographers in the U.S.
2 Fast Facts
1
The TAVOR SAR is the
civilian version of the
main battle rifle of the
Israeli Defense Force (IDF).
2
Development of this
weapon began in the
mid-1980s.
FP_1404_45 1/6/14 10:33 PM Page 45
ELITE WEAP
TACTICAL.EP.qxP 1/8/14 1:31 AM Page 46
ON SYSTEM
THE TAVOR IS A PROVEN WEAPON FOR
THE MODERN WARFIGHTER, LAW ENFORCER
BY ALON STIVI AND PHOTOS COURTESY OF IWI US, INC.
ONSIDER THESE FACTS.
DEMOGRAPHIC PROJECTIONS SUGGEST
THAT 80 PERCENT OF THE WORLDS POPU-
LATION WILL LIVE IN URBAN AREAS BY
2020.
Since the late 1990s, we have seen a growing number
of military deployments in low intensity conflict (LIC)
areas on the planet, and most counterterrorism (CT) and
counterinsurgency (COIN) operations have been carried
out in densely populated, urban environments.
These trends have guided the evolution of warfare
and law enforcement tactics, as well as the development
of new weapon systems.
Growing demands on firearms manufacturers to ad-
dress the close-quarter engagement requirements have
led to the development of versatile, innovative and tech-
nologically advanced weapons. The TAVOR, made by
Israel Weapon Industries (IWI), was developed to better
address the needs of the urban battlefield and the de-
mands of modern combat.
REPUTATION, PERFORMANCE
As is the case with previous Israeli weapons like the Uzi
and Galil, the TAVOR was developed in close cooperation
with the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). True to the Israeli
hands-on, result-driven approach to life, the TAVOR was
developed through a lengthy process of trial and error
and rigorous field-testing. After years of rigorous testing,
the TAVOR is now in service with IDF infantry troops, as
well as in the armed forces of other countries.
Born in combat, the TAVOR has an excellent battlefield
performance record and a reputation for reliability, ma-
neuverability and effectiveness.
A key factor that contributes to the TAVORs increased
accuracy under fatigue and pressure is its ergonomic fit to
the shooter. The bullpup configuration and compact de-
sign keep most of the TAVORs weight aligned with the
bodys center of gravity. This key feature provides for a
much better grip of the weapon, as both elbows are
pointing downward and closer to the core. As a result,
the sensation of the weapon as an extension of the body
is much more prominent with the TAVOR than with other
rifles. This natural fit is paramount in keeping the
weapon leveled and on target while shooting in motion
or while standing or kneeling.
This unique balance, combined with the integrated
reflex sight directly attached to the barrel, allows for a
quick acquisition of the point of aim from the low ready
or the combat carry. The minimal recoil does not seem to
have any effect on stability or accuracy of follow-up
shots.
Facts Behind
its Accuracy
The configuration and
compact design keep
most of the TAVORs
weight aligned with
your center of gravity.
This provides for a
much better grip. This
natural fit is paramount
in keeping the weapon
leveled and on target
while shooting in mo-
tion or while standing
or kneeling.
c
Add These Up
30
The number of rounds
in the magazine
5.56
With minimal work, the
TAVOR will convert
from the 5.56 NATO
configuration to any
other caliber that can fit
in an AR-15 magazine
well.
Who Uses It
1
Israel Defense
Forces: the TAVOR is
in service with IDF
infantry troops
2
Armed forces of
other countries
THE TAVOR IS
ONE OF THE MOST
COMPACT AND
ERGONOMIC
BATTLE RIFLES
IN EXISTENCE.
The TAVORs short-rifle convenience allows the operator
to negotiate corners smoothly and engage targets from
less-than-ideal and alternate shooting positions. Its er-
gonomics, combined with long-barrel accuracy, makes the
TAVOR one of the most accurate weapons in its class.
The TAVOR, which is fully ambidextrous and easy to op-
erate with the right and left hand, is loaded with the same
30-round magazine commonly used on the M4/M16 plat-
form, so this makes the transition to the TAVOR even eas-
ier. With minimal work, the TAVOR will also readily convert
from the 5.56 NATO configuration to any other caliber that
can fit in an AR-15 magazine well.
With little practice, loading and chambering the TAVOR
can be done quickly under pressure with the non-firing
hand. The forward-mounted charging handle falls readily
to hand and is easy to operate. The loading action and
What Its Got
POINT OF AIM
The TAVORs unique balance, combined
with the integrated reflex sight directly
attached to the barrel, allows for a
quick acquisition of the point of aim.
RECOIL
The minimal recoil does not seem to
have any effect on stability or accuracy
of follow-up shots.
CORNER HANDLING
The short-rifle convenience allows the
operator to negotiate corners smoothly
and engage targets from less-than-
ideal and alternate shooting positions.
RIGHT OR LEFT
It is ambidextrous and easy to operate
with the right or left hand.
RELOADING
Loading and chambering can be done
quickly under pressure with the non-fir-
ing hand. The forward-mounted charg-
ing handle falls readily to hand and is
easy to operate. The loading action and
slide release are done in a single move.
WATER
The parts are corrosion-resistant, so the
TAVOR can be fired safely after being
submerged in water or in rainy, icy or
dusty conditions.
THE TAVOR WAS DEVELOPED
TO BETTER ADDRESS THE NEEDS OF
THE URBAN BATTLEFIELD AND THE
DEMANDS OF MODERN COMBAT.
slide release are done in a single move
thanks to the well designed slide-release
lever behind the magazine well. To pre-
vent accidental discharge (AD), the trig-
ger is purposefully heavy, but it is
smooth with a very clean break and a
short reset. It feels even better after
going through a few hundred rounds.
With its corrosion-resistant parts, it
can be fired safely after being sub-
merged in water or in rainy, icy or dusty
conditions and requires minimum main-
tenance. It did not jam and fired reliably
under the most extreme conditions.
Field stripping the gun for cleaning and
reassembly is also very easy.
WEAPON OF CHOICE
In conclusion, the TAVOR is destined
to become a weapon of choice for
home defense as well as the preferred
back-up long gun in patrol cars. Its
growing popularity among warfighters
and its proven combat track record will
undoubtedly make it a top candidate
for the title of the Ultimate Weapon
System in the world.
Alon Stivi, a regular contributor to
Beckett Media publications, is the CEO
of Direct Measures.
Gun Cred
The Writers Resume
Alon Stivi is a security and counterter-
rorism specialist and a POST-certified law
enforcement trainer who emigrated from
Israel after serving in an elite unit of the
IDF.
He taught close-combat tactics to the
U.S. Navy SEAL CQB instructors and has
protected Fortune 500 executives and
dignitaries worldwide. Currently, Stivi is
serving with the Los Angeles Sheriffs
Department as a terrorism liaison officer,
and he teaches Active Shooter Survival and
Terrorism Responder courses funded by the
Department of Homeland Security.
He has been featured on network
television, film, radio and in national
publications.
THE TAVORS GROWING POPULARITY AMONG
WARFIGHTERS AND ITS PROVEN COMBAT TRACK
RECORD WILL UNDOUBTEDLY MAKE IT A TOP
CANDIDATE FOR THE TITLE OF THE ULTIMATE
WEAPON SYSTEM IN THE WORLD.
T
A
V
O
R

S
A
R

-

P
H
O
T
O

B
Y

T
E
R
R
I
L
L

H
O
F
F
M
A
N

RESTS
FOR THE
WICKED
NAIL YOUR SHOT WITH THESE HEAVY-DUTY BENCHRESTS
rests
ISTEN UP.
WERE NOT TALKING ABOUT YOUR
RUN-OF-THE-MILL BAG RESTS HERE.
Were talking rugged, tactical, heavy-
duty benchrests that will ramp up your accuracy
while giving a serious beat-down to your recoil.
Were talking ergonomic design, fine-tuned con-
trols, top-of-the-line tech and, of course,
the sickest looks.
If you thought you were bad before, think
again. Because these rifle rests are wicked
awesome. L
BY ELISE PORTALE AND PHOTOS BY GUS ALONZO
BG_RESTS.EP.qxP 1/8/14 1:39 AM Page 52
Model: The Rock BR
Key Features: Heavy-duty construction,
increased forend support
MSRP: $219.99
www.battenfeldtechnologies.com
Description: This rest was designed with the accu-
racy-obsessed in mind. With 15.5 pounds of cast iron
and stainless steel spread across a 15-inch footprint,
the Rock BR is as steady and solid as its namesake.
The cradles sturdy bag tensioning system grips your
forend tightly, giving you the stability you need to
hit your target. Add on the ball-bearing rotational
system and adjustable cradle for fine tuning your el-
evation and windageyoull be able to make your
shot as well as a name for yourself. And whether
youve got flat or sporter-style forends in your arse-
nal, the two included bag styles can accommodate.
Experts Opinion: World of
Firepower gun expert Marcus Ramos
liked the quality and control over
what he considers a beginners rest.
It has a bubble level, which is
great [for ensuring] that the rest is
level before shooting, he said. I also
like how the shooter can adjust the
tension of the bag. This feature is
used when the forend of the rifle is
placed in the rest and, by increasing
the tension on the bag, this allows
the bag to have a tighter grip on the
forend.
Although a little high on the
beginners budget, if youve got the
cash, this well made rest would make
a great investment.
MSRP:
$219
1
CALDWELL
2
SINCLAIR INTERNATIONAL
Model: Heavy Varmint AP
Key Features: Oversized hand wheel for adjust-
ments, available with additional windage knob
MSRP: $299.99-$379.99
www.sinclairintl.com
Description: Forget complicated. When it
comes to rests, Sinclair knows there are only
two things that really matter: accuracy and re-
peatability. With that in mind, this rest has an
oversized hand wheel with scalloped edges for
ease and thrust bearing for vertical adjust-
ments as smooth as silk. Lock in that shot time
and time again with the fully adjustable
forend stop. The rest comes in versions with
windage adjustments as well, including a ver-
sion just for you lefties. Weighing up to 17
pounds, this baby is going to stay seated
wherever you set her down, and with sexy
black powder-coated cast iron, shell be by
your side til death do you part.
Experts Opinion: This is definitely a well made restit feels incredibly
solid, Ramos said. I like how the screws in the feet are pointed (similar to a
bullet), which allows the stand to really hold onto the surface that it is on.
Stability is definitely a quality every shooter should look for in a rest, but
the price tag may fall out of reach of the non-professionals budget.
MSRP:
$299
-$379
3
HYSKORE
Model: Black Gun Shooting Rest
Key Features: Lightweight, compact,
compatible with high-capacity magazines
MSRP: $99.99
www.hyskore.com
Description: If you want an arm workout,
grab a barbell. When it comes to shot accu-
racy and stability, you need an easily com-
pactible and lightweight package. At a
feathery 7.5 pounds, this rest jettisons the
extra weight, instead using its dual-rail design
to give you concrete stability while also ac-
commodating your rifles with pistol grips and
high-capacity magazines, up to 40 rounds. A
pivoting cradle gives you ambidextrous con-
trol over your elevation and the rear support
yoke brings your gun back in place after re-
coil. And when youre ready to pack it up and
move it out, you can collapse the entire thing
down to less than half of its size.
Experts Opinion: Ramos was pretty impressed with this rests light frame, but
he felt the weight was a bit of a compromise for versatility.
Although its light, which is very nice, it is not adjustable for different rifles,
he says.
For the price, the Hyskore Black Gun is a great rest for beginners, but if youre
into bigger guns, better hold out for something more adjustable.
MSRP:
$99
4
CALDWELL
Model: The Lead Sled DFT
Key Features: Dual-frame technology,
rear bag for stock stabilizing
MSRP: $249.99
www.battenfeldtechnologies.com
Description: Its time to bring out the
big boys. The name says it all: with its
dual-frame and tray systems, this sucker is
designed to hold up to 100 pounds of
lead to stop intense recoil in its tracks.
And it fully adjusts 22 inches to fit
weapons as big as the kickback this rest
reduces. The rear stock-stabilizer bag
helps prevent the inevitable stock shift be-
tween shots, and a rear elevation collar is
an easier way to make your essential ad-
justments. Regardless of what youre
packing, Caldwells got you covered from
your biggest to your baddest firepower.
Experts Opinion: I like how this gun rest has a tray so that you can add extra
weighted bags to help keep the rest down when shooting, Ramos said. It also gives
the rest more stability because of such feature.
In addition to the supreme stability, Ramos liked how easy it was to adjust the
rests length.
MSRP:
$249
Find Them Online
www.humnwallet.com
5
BLACKHAWK!
Model: Sportster Titan FXS Adjustable Rest
Key Features: Ergonomic adjustment
wheel, compatible with magazine-fed
rifles
MSRP: $179.99
www.blackhawk.com
Description: Long-range accuracy is liter-
ally at your fingertips. This easily customiz-
able rest gives you the support you need to
make those far-off shots. With 3 inches of
adjustable length, rapid adjustment for
windage and elevation and a removable
steel weight tray, youll hit your target
using pretty much any weapon, including
your magazine-fed favorites. Between the
ergonomic elevation wheel and the
padded rear rest cover, this is a rest youll
love that will love you right back.
Experts Opinion: Ramos liked many of the same features as found in the
Caldwell rests, except for minor adjustment difficulties.
The only thing that I did not like was that it was not as easy to adjust the
length, he said. However, this isnt a huge setback because you will not
have to adjust all that often.
Overall, the BLACKHAWK! stands up to its more expensive competition
on the market, though you may have to shell out some more bucks for more
user friendliness.
PROS VS. JOES
What You Need
To Look For
PROS
Target price: $250
Must-haves: stability,
user-friendly controls
JOES
Target price: $100
Must-haves: stability,
versatile weapon
compatibility
MSRP:
$179
ALL-PRO
THE WORLDS TOP 10 COMBAT AUTOMATIC PISTOLS
WORDS AND PHOTOS BY LEROY THOMPSON
A British soldier firing
the L9A1, the British
military designation
for the Hi-Power, on a
range at Basra, Iraq.
(UK MOD)
COMBAT.EP.qxP 1/8/14 2:19 AM Page 58
HERE ARE MILLIONS.
THROUGHOUT THE WORLD OF MILITARY,
POLICE AND CIVILIAN SERVICE, COMBAT
HANDGUNS PROLIFERATE. SO, HOW DO YOU
PICK THE TOP 10?
KEEP READING.
As with any Top 10 list, this one will be affected by per-
sonal preferences. Ill offer my list in no special order as I
rate different pistols more highly for different tasks. In each
case, I have offered the pros and cons of each pistol based
on my experience.
THE 1911
The Colt 1911 pistol has been around for more than a
century and remains one of the benchmarks for combat
autos. Today, it is produced by many manufacturers, includ-
ing Springfield Armory, Kimber, Smith & Wesson and SIG-
Sauer. There are also excellent custom makers who enhance
the basic 1911. I especially like pistols from Wilson Combat,
Les Baer and the Springfield Armory Custom Shop. Kimber
offers commercial pistols that incorporate many of the fea-
tures generally found on custom pistols.
One of the greatest advantages of the 1911 design is the
stopping power of the .45 ACP cartridge. This advantage
has been mitigated to some extent by modern bullets in
other calibers, but there have also been improvements in
.45-caliber bullets, as well.
Another advantage of the 1911 design is that, in well
made pistols, especially custom versions, accuracy is superb
at least partially due to the ability to get excellent trigger
pull. Personally, I like versions of the 1911, such as the
Springfield Operator, that incorporate a rail for illumina-
tors.
Oft-cited disadvantages of the 1911 include heavy recoil
and inaccuracy. Many of the fears of heavy recoil result
from inexperienced shooters who fire a .45 ACP pistol with-
out having learned to shoot on a .22 auto or perhaps a
1911 with a .22 conversion unit. With experience, the recoil
is quite manageable, even barely noticeable. Many of the
claims of inaccuracy can be attributed to older military
1911/1911A1 pistols that had become worn and loose.
A couple of other disadvantages that have some validity
are the hammers tendency to bite the webbing of the
hand and the difficulty in disassembly. To avoid bite, many
modern 1911 pistols have an extended tang. I do agree,
though, that the disassembly process for the 1911 pistol is
far more complicated and offers a higher chance of losing
parts than that of most modern pistols.
Overall, the 1911 pistol is capable of giving excellent
combat service and putting down an enemy reliably. Its sin-
gle-action, cocked-and-locked design, though, makes it
most effective in the hands of a very experienced user.
T
3 Pros
Stopping power
Super accuracy
Excellent trigger pull
THE 1911 PISTOL IS CAPABLE OF GIVING
EXCELLENT COMBAT SERVICE AND PUTTING DOWN
AN ENEMY RELIABLY.
There are excel-
lent custom
makers of
1911-style pis-
tols; Thompson
uses this Wil-
son Combat
Custom CQB
light-rail light-
weight.
Thompson especially likes 1911-
style pistols with rails; among his
favorites are the Kimber TLE/RL
II, at right, and the Springfield
Operator, second from right.
BERETTA M9/92
Having served as the U.S. military service pistol for more than 20 years,
the M9 is familiar to veterans and many police officers that carry the civil-
ian Beretta 92.
Among the strengths of the M9 is its double-action/single-action trig-
ger system, which allows it to be carried with a round chambered and
hammer safely lowered on a loaded chamber. All it takes for a quick first
shot is a pull on the double-action trigger.
For additional safety, the hammer drop safety may be left in the low-
ered position and only flicked up when ready to fire. A double-action-
only version of the Beretta 92 is available and is used by some LE
agencies. In 9x19mm chambering, the M9s magazine holds 15 rounds.
The M9 offers quick and simple takedown with a lower chance of los-
ing small parts, though it is still preferable to disassemble the pistol on a
piece of cloth. Opinions differ on the M9s slide, which is open at the top.
Critics have felt this can allow foreign matter to get into the pistol while
some veterans of Iraq and Afghanistan have argued that it actually lets
debris be shaken out of the pistol or pushed out as the slide operates.
Standard M9 sights are usable but not great. Currently, the U.S. armed
forces are acquiring the M9A1 version with an accessory rail.
I like the M9 quite a lot. I did some U.S. Army training for units during
their transitioning from the 1911 to the M9 and found that many of
them shot better and faster with the M9. Of course, this shorter engage-
ment time was partially due to the fact they had carried their 1911s in
condition three (loaded magazine but chamber empty). In my own expe-
rience and that of some military trainers I know, the M9 has proven
highly reliable.
There were some problems during the War on Terror, but these were
attributable to one batch of magazines rather than to the gun. There
USAF Security
Forces training
for building en-
tries; the point
man is armed
with a Beretta
M9. Note that it
has a lanyard
affixed. (USAF)
have also been criticisms of the M9s stopping power because of its full-
metal-jacketed, 124-grain, 9x19mm cartridge. Civilian users have access
to much more effective ammunition.
3 Pros
Double-action, single-action trigger system
The hammer-drop safety may be left in the lowered position
Quick and simple takedown
HAVING SERVED AS THE U.S. MILITARY
SERVICE PISTOL FOR MORE THAN 20
YEARS, THE M9 IS FAMILIAR TO VETER-
ANS AND MANY POLICE OFFICERS
A Beretta M9 and
an early type of
M9 holster in
desert camou-
flage.
SIG SAUER P226/P228/P229
As with the M9, the SIG P226 offers the combination of double-action
first-round capability and high magazine capacity. Unlike the M9, however,
the decocker returns to the fire position after safely dropping the hammer,
thus eliminating its use as a supplemental safety.
Actually, I prefer the DAK (Double Action Kellerman) version for the SIG
pistols. It allows a consistent double-action pull for each round. SIGs take-
down system is simple and quick, allowing ease of maintenance. SIG pistols
are known for their accuracy and the P226 or the more compact P228 and
P229 are no exception. They shoot well. My only problem with SIG pistols in
regard to accuracy is that almost every one Ive owned with night sights
was not regulated and shot either high or low.
I have found my SIG pistols reliable, and the version of the P228 elected
for U.S. military usage (the M11) passed rigorous testing before adoption.
Likewise, the SIG P226 pistols used by the SEALs as the MK24 or MK25 have
proved themselves capable of withstanding hard use. I have a couple of er-
gonomic issues with the P226 or P228/P229: I find the grip a little fat,
though current grip panels are slimmer and have alleviated this problem to
some extent. I also find that I cannot operate the slide release or the maga-
zine release with my shooting hand unless I shift my grip; hence, I often
have to use my support hand. As with most modern combat pistols, the SIG
series now comes with an accessory rail.
I like the P226 series of pistols a lot and have carried them for many
hours in many places, always considering myself well armed.
The SIG P226 MK 25, the lat-
est version of this pistol used
by the SEALs.
3 Pros
Double-action
first-round
capability
High magazine
capacity
Simple and
quick takedown
system
I LIKE THE P226 SERIES OF
PISTOLS A LOT AND HAVE
CARRIED THEM FOR MANY
HOURS IN MANY PLACES,
ALWAYS CONSIDERING
MYSELF WELL ARMED.
GLOCK 17
Although I have selected the Glock 17 for discussion, my comments
will apply to any of many Glock designs, which differ primarily in car-
tridge.
Currently, Glock is almost certainly the most popular police pistol
and one of the most widely used military pistols. It is also very popu-
lar for civilian self-defense. Among the Glocks appealing features are
its low price and simplicity. A Glock pistol can be fired simply by
pulling the trigger, as the safety is a tiny lever located on the trigger.
It may also be easily disassembled and cleaned.
A useful training device
for units armed with the
Glock is the Blue
Glock, designed for use
with Simunition training
ammunition.
Glocks are known for ruggedness, and if a
small part breaks, it is easily replaced. From the
point of view of police or military units, the fact
that the armorers course only lasts half a day al-
lows them to train personnel to maintain their
units weapons easily, and only a limited number
of spare parts must be stocked.
The ability to bring the Glock into action
quickly has been a major selling point with some
users. In fact, the British Armed Forces have re-
cently adopted the Glock 17 because so many
troops had been attacked in Afghanistan by sup-
posed friendlies. Glock pistols take high-capacity
magazines, which allow sustained engagement
without a reload. The Glocks polymer frame and
magazine bodies help keep weight down, thus
making it appealing to personnel who must carry
a substantial amount of other equipment.
An additional advantage of the Glock is that,
in each caliber, Glock offers a series of pistols,
which allows a military or LE unit to have differ-
ent pistols for different missions. For example,
while the Glock 17 is the full-sized 9x19mm pis-
tol, there is also the mid-sized Glock 19, which
conceals better yet still offers good magazine ca-
pacity, or the compact Glock 26, which conceals
very well and can serve as a backup or under-
cover gun.
Probably the greatest negative aspect of the
Glock is the increased possibility of negligent dis-
charges because of the lack of any other safety
besides that in the trigger. Using a holster that
covers the trigger guard and training personnel
to keep their fingers outside the trigger guard
until ready to engage helps, but too many users
get sloppy and stick the pistol in their waistband
without a holster or in a purse, where a pen or a
tube of lipstick can disengage the safety and
push back the trigger.
3 Pros
Widely used by law enforcement and military
Low price
Simplicity
GLOCKS ARE KNOWN
FOR RUGGEDNESS
BROWNING P-35
Although it has been replaced in many military units, the Browning P-35 (Hi-Power) still sees
substantial military use. Designated the P-35 because of its introduction in 1935, the Hi-Power has
served now for more than 75 years in nearly 100 countries. Holding 13 rounds in the magazine, the
Hi-Power was the first widely used pistol with a double-column high-capacity magazine.
Despite the high-cap magazine, the Hi-Power has one of the most comfortable grips of any
combat pistol. I carried a Hi-Power for many years while working overseas and found that, because
it was so widely used, I could always get parts if needed, though I rarely needed them.
There were a few aspects of the Hi-Power that made it less than an optimum combat pistol de-
spite its wide use.
First, it was a single-action design, which has been superseded in many armies by double-action
models. Also, though well made with typical FN quality, it was not designed to handle hot loads
on a regular basis. Other factors that bothered some users included its magazine, which did not
fall free when the release button was pushed, thus requiring the magazine to be pulled free. Fur-
thermore, its sights were rudimentary, and the safety was too small to be operated easily.
As far as the magazine not dropping free, I did not consider that a major issue; I had 14 rounds
because I carried the pistol with one in the chamber. However, I concur about the safety and
sights. They were improved on more recent production pistols.
I dealt with some of the Hi-Power issues by having two custom examples madeone by Robar
and one by Jim Garthwaite. Both have better trigger pulls than standard and use Bar-Sto barrels as
well as better sights and safeties. I like all Hi-Powers but especially these two.
3 Pros
Substantial military use
Comfortable grips
Improve safety and sights
THE HI-POWER WAS THE FIRST WIDELY USED PISTOL
WITH A DOUBLE-COLUMN HIGH-CAPACITY MAGAZINE.
Leroy Thompson also writes for Gun World and Tactical World, World of Firepowers sister
publications.
Coming Up Next
In the second half of this article, Leroy Thompson addresses
his other five favorite combat autoloaders.
A U.S. Navy SEAL
prepares to engage
with his P226 as he
breaks water. (USN)
FP_1404_63 1/8/14 5:29 AM Page 63
S&WS NEW AR OFFERS EVERYTHING SHOOTERS
LOVE ABOUT THE M&P15 AND MORE
Smith & Wessons new
M&P10 stands out in a
crowded field of AR rifles.
It is highly configurable,
reliable and accurate.
All major controls are
ambidextrous.
POWER
BOOST
WORDS AND PHOTOS BY BRAD FITZPATRICK
S&W.EP.qxP 1/8/14 2:41 AM Page 64
THE M&P10 IS CAPABLE OF
EXCELLENT ACCURACY OUT TO
LONG DISTANCES.
HOICES ABOUND.
TODAY, THERE IS NO SHORTAGE WHEN
YOURE LOOKING FOR AN AR-PLATFORM
RIFLE, BUT FEW GUNS HAVE BEEN AS
SUCCESSFUL IN THIS MARKET AS SMITH &
WESSONS M&P15. ITS A FAVORITE OF TARGET
SHOOTERS, COMPETITION SHOOTERS, HUNTERS AND
LAW ENFORCEMENT PROFESSIONALS, ALL OF WHOM
APPRECIATE THE RIFLES ACCURACY, BUILD QUALITY
AND RELIABILITY.
Smith & Wesson followed this up with the introduction
of the M&P15-22 in .22 long rifle, but now the brand has
gone the other direction with the launch of the M&P10 in
the powerful and versatile .308 Winchester.
C
S&W.EP.qxP 1/8/14 2:41 AM Page 65
.308 TRACK RECORD
The .308 is a military cartridge (7.62x51 NATO, technically)
and has a long track record of accuracy and performance in
military and law enforcement applications as well as in
hunting rifles. Despite being outpaced by a number of
newer, faster .30-caliber rounds, the .308 is still a favorite of
long-range shooters who compete at ranges of 800 yards
and beyond, proving that the .308 is capable of banging
gongs at great distances.
It only makes sense then that Smith & Wesson would add
a rifle chambered for this versatile cartridge to its already
successful lineup of AR-platform rifles.
THE FEATURES
The new M&P10 features
a mid-length gas system, a
hard-anodized 7075 T6 alu-
minum receiver and an 18-
inch, light-contour barrel
with a 1:10 rate of twist that
is made of 4140 steel. It fea-
tures a 10-round metal mag-
azine and comes in both
matte black and camo ver-
sions. The black version
comes with an adjustable
CAR stock while the camo
version has a Magpul MOE
stock, and the camo version
has a five-round capacity.
Both versions come with chromed gas key, bolt carrier
and firing pin. Additionally, the black version of the gun
comes with a new, patent-pending flash hider at the end of
the barrel. The adjustable stock offers 3.3 inches of instant
length-of-pull adjustment, and the M&P10 weighs just 7.7
pounds, which is light enough to carry on the range, in the
field or at a competitive event.
Trigger pull is set at just above 6 pounds. For a factory AR,
the M&Ps trigger pull was clean and crisp. The rifle comes
with sling attachments for mounting a one- or three-point
sling quickly and easily. The rounded M4-style hand guard is
comfortable and easy to grip, even when wet.
One of the complaints circling around most AR-platform
rifles is that the controls are designed for right-handed
shooters. Smith & Wesson took the concerns of left-handed
shooters into consideration when building the M&P10, and
all of the major controls on the gun (safety lever, bolt re-
lease, magazine release) are ambidextrous. That means that
lefties will no longer have to learn to shoot a rifle that was
designed for someone else. With the M&P10, southpaws
wont have to change their shooting style or reach around
the gun.
WITH THE
M&P10,
SOUTHPAWS
WONT HAVE
TO CHANGE
THEIR SHOOTING
STYLE OR REACH
AROUND THE
GUN.
1. Unlike most AR
rifles, which are
designed specifically
for right-handed
shooters, the M&P10
is ambidextrous, with
a safety lever and
magazine and bolt
releases on both sides
of the receiver.
2. Having a bolt
release on the right
side of the gun allows
right-handed shooters
to simply reach up
with the trigger finger
to press the button.
3. The new Smith &
Wesson flash suppres-
sor is lightweight and
effective.
1
2
3
S&W.EP.qxP 1/8/14 2:41 AM Page 66
TEST SCORES
I had the opportunity to test out S&Ws latest AR-platform rifle
in Texas, and Crimson Trace had outfitted these rifles with its MVF
vertical foregrips with lights and infrared lasers, just one of the
many accessories that are easy to attach to the M&P10.
Outfitted with Leupold VX-6 scopes and Crimson Trace IR tech-
nology, the M&P10 is capable of excellent accuracy out to long
distances. After sighting in the rifle at the range, it was easy to
smack the 100- and 200-yard gongs.
The gas system worked extremely well, and throughout the en-
tire test, the gun ran smoothly without any jams or other prob-
lems. With the current popularity of AR rifles, the M&P10 was
facing stiff competition, but the gas system is one of the best, and
the M&P10 I tested ran smoothly with a variety of different loads.
Crimson Trace hosts the annual Midnight 3 Gun Invitational in
Oregon, an immensely popular event where all of the shooting is
done under the cover of darkness. With the MVF foregrip
mounted on the M&P10, we shot targets at night using ANVIS-9
goggles, which turn the world an eerie shade of emerald green.
With the touch of a button, the MVF emits an infrared beam that
is visible out to several hundred yards, making it possible to shoot
in almost complete darkness.
On the range, the M&P10s ambidextrous controls are a bene-
fit, but at night, they are a necessity, especially for lefty shooters.
For this kind of work, the M&P10 is ideal because it offers plenty
of accessory space for mounting optics and lights and the metal
magazine is easy to grasp and manipulate without looking down.
Shooting in low light makes it more difficult to make a gun run
M&P10S Features
Mid-length gas system
Hard, anodized 7075 T6
aluminum receiver
18-inch, light-contour barrel
with a 1:10 rate of twist
that is made of 4140 steel
10-round metal magazine
that comes in both matte
black and camo versions
Both versions come with
chromed gas key, bolt carrier
and firing pin
The black version comes
with a new, patent-pending
flash hider at the end of the
barrel
The adjustable stock offers
3.3 inches of instant length-
of-pull adjustment
Sling attachments for
mounting a one- or
three-point sling
The rounded M4-style hand
guard is comfortable and
easy to grip, even when wet
All of the major controls on
the gun (safety lever, bolt
release, magazine release)
are ambidextrous
MVF-515 Foregrip
There are a bunch of AR accessories on the market, and some of them are real standouts in
terms of practicality and value.
Crimson Traces MVF-515 vertical foregrip is one of the most logical and easy-to-use acces-
sories available, providing a secure grip for the front of the rifle with easy access to a light and a
laser. This helps reduce the amount of clutter on your rifle and allows you to mount a full-length
optic, such as the Leupold VX-6, on the receiver of your rifle.
The MVF-515 has a comfortable, cushioned grip and requires only a quick press of the finger
to activate the light or the laser.
Sight in at the range
showed that the M&P10
is a thoroughly capable
rifle. It makes the most
of the venerable .308s
potential.
MVF-515
Foregrip
S&W.EP.qxP 1/8/14 2:41 AM Page 67
smoothly; cartridges get blindly
stacked in the magazine, and during
that process, its easy to screw some-
thing up. The M&P10 had no troubles
with misfeeds from the mag, and the
light, clean trigger made it easy to hit
the target from seated and standing
positions.
While I was standing and moving, I
simply shorted the stock, tucked my
elbows in and moved on the target.
From the bench, I could extend the
stock and settle in for longer
shots. As the popularity of events
like the Midnight 3 Gun event
continue to grow, the M&P10 will
likely remain a fa-
vorite because of the
ease of use of the con-
trols, the efficient gas
system and the
rugged reliability of
the action.
MUCH TO OFFER
Whether youre a
hunter, competitor or
simply a target shooter, the M&P10
has a lot to offer. The chromed pieces
are easy to clean, requiring a simple
wipe down, and the matte finish is
durable and consistent.
Much like the M&P15, the new
M&P10 is a gun that is ready to take
the competition head-on. And if you
happen to be a left-handed shooter,
this gun will make your life a lot eas-
ier.
With an MSRP of $1,619 to $1,729,
its a mid-priced AR-10 with a ton of
features and is a great choice in this
crowded market.
Brad Fitzpatrick is a
regular contributor to
Beckett Medias outdoor
publications.
Track Down
Crimson Trace
For more information, visit
www.crimsontrace.com.
Going Light:
The M&P15-22
Its good news that .22 long-
rifle ammo is becoming readily
available once more, and theres
no better way to train than
shooting a light-recoiling, quiet
version of Smith & Wessons
larger M&P rifles.
The lightweight M&P15-22
comes with a six-position col-
lapsible stock, adjustable sights,
a recessed magazine-release
button and a sturdy polymer
magazine.
Besides being loads of fun to
shoot and very accurate, this
gun is extremely reliable. Unlike
other rifles that have a tendency
to jam with short, low-powered
.22 LR ammo, the M&P15-22 is
built to big-gun standards, and
there are few things that are
more fun than punching holes in
a target, a tin can or last years
jack-o-lantern with this little
rifle.
Its also one of the best ways
to introduce new shooters to the
excitement of AR rifles. When it
comes to fun guns, this one is at
the top of the list. It ranges in
price from $469 for basic models
up to $769 for the tricked-out
M&P version.
Count the Ways
To Reach Them
PHONE
(800) 331-0852
WEBSITE
www.smith-wesson.com
EMAIL
qa@smith-wesson.com
MAIL
Smith & Wesson
2100 Roosevelt Avenue
Springfield, MA 01104
Shooting in low light requires a
gun that functions reliably and
has easy-to-use controls. The
M&P10 is perfect for this.
Numbers
MSRP
$1,619 to $1,729
WEIGHT
7.7 pounds
TRIGGER PULL
Set at just
above 6
pounds
S&W.EP.qxP 1/8/14 2:41 AM Page 68
Highlights of
the Midnight
Competition
HOST
Crimson Trace
The M&P10
comes with a
10-round metal
magazine,
and the T6 alu-
minum receiver
is finished in a
durable, non-
glare matte
black.
The M&P10 is
shown here with
ANVIS-9 night vi-
sion equipment.
With a Crimson
Trace MVF with
infrared capabili-
ties, this rifle is
perfect for
events like the
Midnight 3 Gun
Invitational.
EVENT NAME
Annual
Midnight
3 Gun
Invitational
SHOOTING AT NIGHT
Shooting in total darkness makes it
more difficult to make a gun run
smoothly. For example, cartridges
get blindly stacked in the maga-
zine, and during that process, its
easy to screw something up.
HOW THE M&P10
PERFORMED
The S&W had no troubles with
misfeeds from the mag. The
light, clean trigger made it easy
to hit the target while seated or
standing.
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UNDAMENTALS.
YOU HEAR THE
PROS IN ALL THE
MAJOR SPORTS
TALK ABOUT THE
IMPORTANCE OF THEM, AND
ITS NO DIFFERENT IN COM-
PETITIVE SHOOTING.
Shooting is about the fun-
damentals at all skill levels,
says Karla Herdzik, competi-
tive shooter for Team FNH
USA. The difference that sets
F
TO ENHANCE
YOUR
10
TIPS
BY KARLA HERDZIK WITH SEAN COOPER - PHOTOS COURTESY OF FNH
Lifting weights enables a shooter
to control pistol recoil, keep the
rifle steady for off-hand shots and
absorb the kick of a 12-gauge,
says Karla Herdzik (right).
NOVICE TO
SHOOTING
Left to right: Larry Houck, sales support manager for
FNH USA and Team FNH USA captain; Karla Herdzik;
Jayson Smith, competative shooter for Team FNH USA.
10.EP.qxP 1/9/14 2:47 AM Page 70
1 2 3
the great shoot-
ers apart from
the pack is the
mastery of the
basics and prac-
tice.
In this exclu-
sive Q&A,
Herdzik provides
her best tips on
how you can im-
prove your shoot-
ing skills today.
WANT TO GET BETTER? MY ADVICE WOULD
BE TO PRACTICE THE FUNDAMENTALS; THEN
PRACTICE THEM SOME MORE.
KARLA HERDZIK, COMPETITIVE SHOOTER FOR TEAM FNH USA
Plan and
Set Goals
Before you can
get better, you
have to deter-
mine at what?
Figure out exactly
what you want to
do, and then set
incremental,
measurable goals
to help you get
there.
Find Assistance
No man is an island
and neither is any good
shooter. If youre a new
shooter, find a friend to
share your adventure. If
youve been shooting a
while, find a more ad-
vanced shooter to train
with. You still have to
work hard, but you
cant get awesome on
your own.
Get Gear that Fits
You cant shoot well if
your gear doesnt fit be-
cause youll be too busy
being uncomfortable to
focus on your front sight.
Hand-me-downs and bor-
rowed gear are a great way
to get started, but they may
not work well for you in the
long run. Find what you
need for you and modify it
as necessary.
Competitiveness
Is Her Nature
When shes not at the range,
Herdzik enjoys CrossFit and
Olympic lifting.
10.EP.qxP 1/9/14 2:47 AM Page 71
3 Gun
Competition
Why Karla Herdzik
Loves Competition
1
The fun
2
The challenge
3
Mostly the people
CLOSE YOUR EYES AND ENVISION YOURSELF MAKING THAT PERFECT
SHOT OVER AND OVER KARLA HERDZIK, COMPETITIVE SHOOTER FOR TEAM FNH USA
The Making
of a Pro
FIRST GUN
EXPERIENCE
As a child, Herdzik shot
balloons out of trees
with a BB gun in her
grandfathers backyard.
AS AN ADULT
Herdziks first time to
the range was at the
behest of a college
friend who wanted to
learn how to shoot a
pistol and needed a
buddy to join her.
ONE STEP FURTHER
A few years later,
Herdziks former spouse
introduced her to the
world of competitive
pistol shooting. After a
couple of seasons of
shooting pistol matches
and seeing an episode
of 3-Gun Nation on
TV, she was inspired to
try three-gun competi-
tion.
TEAM TIME
In 2011, she was invited
to join the Team FNH
USA family after getting
to know several team
members at local
competitions.
Cry Once
See tip No. 1. Remember your
goals. Then, research what gear you
need to achieve them. Borrow, rent
and seek recommendations before
you purchase. Then, buy the right
gear the first time, even if its not
the cheapest price. Your wallet may
cry a little more at first, but it will
hurt a lot less in the long run.
Practice in Bite-Sized Chunks
In an age of jam-packed day plan-
ners and extreme multitasking, con-
sider both your schedule and your
attention span when developing
your practice plan. You probably
dont have two hours, but you likely
have 15 minutes every day to work
on reloading and manipulations.
Focus, work hard for a short time
and then get on with your day.
Herdzik, a competitive shooter for Team FNH USA, says its important to
visualize success.
Life as a shooter began as a child for Karla Herdzik.
WEB
www.fnhusa.com
ADDRESS
P.O. Box 9424
McLean, VA 22102
PHONE
(703) 288-3500
EMAIL
info@fnhusa.com
Find Them Four Ways
Test Yourself
To find a match near you,
go to www.uspsa.org,
www.idpa.com or
www.3gunnation.com.
Know When to
Walk Away
As they say, Perfect
practice makes perfect.
So, if youre not fully
focused on the task at
hand, quit while youre
ahead. Continuing to
practice through a lack of
focus, poor form or other
distractions will only rein-
force bad habits.
Visualize Success
Go to Amazon.com
right now. Order With
Winning in Mind by
Olympic champion rifle
shooter Lanny Bassham.
Then close your eyes and
envision yourself making
that perfect shot over and
over and over and
Test Your Skills
Think youve mastered
your skills? Put them to
the test at a local compe-
tition to see how you per-
form under stress. See the
accompanying sidebar for
organizations that host
matches.
Get Strong
Legendary strength train-
ing coach Mark Rippetoe
famously said, Strong peo-
ple are harder to kill than
weak people and more use-
ful in general. While that
quote is more popular
among the barbell-hoisting
gym crowd (like me!) than
shooters, the sentiment ap-
plies here. A stronger you
can better control pistol re-
coil, keep your rifle steady
for off-hand shots and ab-
sorb the kick of your 12-
gauge to get you back on
target sooner.
Have Fun
Shooting is serious
business, but every once in
a while, you need to have
some fun to remember why
you started shooting in the
first place. Be safe, but be
sure to crack a smile at least
once every time youre at
the range.
Sean Cooper is a regular
contributor to World of
Firepower.
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
10.EP.qxP 1/8/14 2:47 AM Page 72
FP_1404_73 1/6/14 10:36 PM Page 73
HOUGH ITS NOW MORE
THAN 100 YEARS OLD, THE
SO-CALLED MODERN DA
REVOLVER REMAINS THE
CHOICE OF MANY WHO, FOR
VARIOUS REASONS, DONT CARE FOR
SELF-LOADERS.
Some feel that the old wheelgun is more
reliable, while others say its more accurate
or easier to understand. However, one thing
is certain: The revolver is without a doubt
still popular with a large percentage of self-
defense-oriented shooters and can still per-
form as well now as it did 50 years ago.
However, like any other firearm, it wont
perform to its highest potential unless
some serious thought is given as to how we
can best utilize its inherent capabilities. As
such, some careful thought is needed.
MISSION, SIZE, WEIGHT
First, we need to define the mission for
which we intend to use it. As a quick trip to
any gun shop will disclose, there are a lot of
revolvers available. They come in a variety
T
HOW TO
MAKE YOUR
REVOLVER
PERFORM
ITS BEST
WORDS AND PHOTOS BY CHUCK TAYLOR
ACHIEVING
SWEETNESS
Revolver.EP.qxP 1/8/14 3:04 AM Page 74
of sizes, configurations and calibers, and
to inadvertently choose one thats inap-
propriate for our needs in and of itself
prevents maximum effectiveness from
being attained.
For the most part, small-framed re-
volvers are chambered for either the .38
SPL or, occasionally, the .357 Magnum and
usually come with a 2-inch barrel; al-
though, now and then, a 2 - or 3-incher
can be found. Popularly known as snub-
bies, they represent a type of weapon in-
tended for casual carry, just in case or
as a backup in the event of the wearers
primary weapon being lost.
Snubbies are easily concealed and, be-
cause of their light weight, relatively con-
venient to carry. However, their diminutive
size and short sight radius make them
tough to shoot well under stress. Their
muzzle velocities are considerably reduced
as well, significantly limiting JHP expan-
sion, causing many to opt instead for a
heavier SWC bullet, which will at least cut
a full-caliber permanent wound channel.
Almost invariably, snubbies come with
IF THE GUN IS TOO
POTENT FOR THE GUNS
SIZE AND WEIGHT, DUE
TO EXCESSIVE RECOIL,
PERFORMANCE WILL
SUFFER.
Defensive
Handgun
Criteria
Fast presentations
from the holster
Accurate high-
speed shot place-
ment under the
widest possible
variety of tactical
and environmen-
tal conditions
fixed sights, which, for most shooters,
presents yet another problem: With
anything other than the old 158-grain
lead RNL for which they were originally
intended, they dont shoot anywhere
near point of aim.
All these limitations indicate that the
snub is designed to be a special-purpose
gun. Its weaknesses, if employed in a
more general-purpose mode, are obvi-
ous, making it a less-than-optimum
choice.
For such missions, a larger-framed
gun, such as Colts D-frame or Smith &
Wessons K-frame, would be a better
choice. In addition, theyre usually avail-
able with adjustable sights, allowing use
of the entire spectrum of .38 SPL or .357
Magnum bullet weights and types. As
such, they provide an excellent balance
of weight, handling qualities and user-
friendliness, making them excellent
choices for general-purpose missions.
Heavy-framed guns like the venera-
ble S&W N-frame series are quite con-
trollable with most .357 Magnum, .44
SPL or .45 Auto Rim ammunition but are
bulky and quite heavy, which might be
a major concern if concealment and/or
Selecting the right barrel length for your needs is crucial. Shorter
barrels minimize JHP expansion, while longer barrels are less con-
cealable. Thus, careful consideration of your needs is a must.
Especially with a 4-inch barrel, the ubiquitous DA revolver is now more
than a century old and still a highly effective weapon. However, it can
be made to perform even better by following a few thoughtful tips.
daily carry are involved. Weight and bulk means
slower holster presentations, though once the gun
is finally in action, those same characteristics aid
controllability in fast shooting sequences. Once
again, the shooter must find the right balance for
his needs.
CALIBER CONSIDERATION
Caliber selection is critically important, too, for if
the gun is too potent for the guns size and weight,
due to excessive recoil, performance will suffer. And
as if caliber alone isnt enough, the load you select
is also of critical importance.
Best performance in any caliber can only be
achieved by selecting the load that presents the
best balance of velocity (which greatly influences
bullet expansion), controllability (recoil), muzzle
flash and terminal ballistics (penetration and expan-
sion). Therefore, ultra-powerful cartridges like the
.41 or .44 Magnum should be excluded from serious
consideration.
Most medium- and heavy-framed revolvers come
with barrel lengths from 3 to as long as 8 3/8
inches. Naturally the 8 3/8-incher is intended solely
for sporting use, but 5-, 6- and 6 -inch barrels are
encountered on a fairly common basis. They provide
increased muzzle velocities for better JHP expansion
with heavier bullets and their longer sight radius
makes for more accurate
shooting, as well.
However, they do
have one potentially se-
rious drawback: Theyre
more difficult to conceal.
This is why the 4-inch
barrel ended up being
the most common
choice. Though without
a doubt a compromise, it
provides the best combination of velocity,
sight radius and concealability.
ISSUE OF CONTROLLABILITY
Controllability is often discussed but, in truth, is
only rarely understood. Too hot a load and/or too
light a gun can negatively affect the firers ability to
place his shots quickly and accurately, a critical re-
quirement in all tactical encounters. But theres
morestock design and trigger configuration are
important, too.
Stocks that are too large for the firers hand
should be avoided because they hinder fast grip
index during fast holster presentations and firing
sequences. On the other hand, many factory stocks
are too small, allowing the rear of the trigger guard
to constantly batter the knuckle of the middle fin-
TOO HOT A LOAD CAN NEGATIVELY AFFECT THE FIRERS
ABILITY TO PLACE HIS SHOTS QUICKLY AND ACCURATELY
2 Fast Facts
on Revolvers
1
Revolvers come in a
variety of sizes,
configurations and
calibers.
2
To choose one thats
inappropriate for your
needs prevents
maximum effectiveness.
Did You Know?
Factors In Tactical
Encounters
When a load is too hot or the gun is
too light, it can negatively affect the
firers ability to place shots quickly
and accurately critical require-
ments in tactical encounters.
Though simple and rugged, fixed sights
are not always of the high-visibility type,
preventing fast sight-acquisition under
stress. As well, more often than not, they
dont allow proper point of aim/point of im-
pact with the lighter bullets so commonly
used today. Tritium sights are also now
widely available and a good idea as most
handgun altercations take place in low light.
ger during firing, causing discom-
fort and loss of weapon control.
The solution for this problem is
simpleinstall a grip adapter,
which will fill that excess space be-
hind the trigger guard and allow
the firing hand to maintain a good
grip when the gun is being fired
quickly. A number of companies
offer excellent after-market stocks
made of either rubber or wood
that are well configured for most
shooters hands and are relieved to
allow a speed loader to clear. Most
are a bit large for the majority of
women but work pretty well for
men. Personally, because I have a
small palm and relatively short fin-
gers, I prefer the smaller factory
stocks, with the left-side panel re-
lieved to allow a speed loader to
clear and either a Tyler or Pach-
mayr grip adapter.
Ultra-wide target triggers and
trigger shoes should also be
avoided because, while they give
the illusion of a lighter trigger
pull, they also cause a loss of
feel to the trigger finger dur-
ing fast DA shooting sequences,
resulting in a deterioration in ac-
curacy. Instead, the trigger
should at the very least be nar-
row and, if possible, rounded and
polished smooth to enhance feel
during fast manipulation.
The hammer spur should also be
as small and edge-free as possible
to prevent snagging during con-
cealed carry presentations and
abrading skin when the gun is
thumb-cocked into the SA mode
for longer range shots.
FINISHES, LOAD
PREFERENCES
Last, a finish thats appropriate
to the kind of natural environment
in which your gun is to be carried
and used should be applied. These
resist holster wear and corrosion
due to moisture and body salts and
thus extend your guns service life
indefinitely. Among the best fin-
ishes, hard chrome, Metalife SS
Chromium M, Roguard and electro-
less nickel are consistently the most
popular.
Mission definition
Weapon size
Weight
Barrel length
Stocks
Trigger and hammer
spur configuration
Caliber
Load selection
Steps To Better
Performance 8
Im often asked about my load
preferences for the .38 SPL and .357
Magnum, particularly when short
barrels are involved. Generally speak-
ing, I favor the .38 SPL, CORBON stan-
dard 110-grain JHP or DPX JHPs for
use in 4-inch or longer barrels and a
regular 158-grain lead RNL or SWC
for snubbies. Both loads mentioned
do show significant expansion even
from a 2-inch barrel, but unless the
gun has adjustable sights (a rarity in
small-framed snubs), they dont al-
ways shoot to point of aim. I find this
disconcerting and tend to avoid it as
a result.
In shorter-barreled .357s (2 to 4
inches), Ive found the CORBONs 110-
grain PowRBall to be an excellent
choice. Its controllable, exhibits mini-
mal flash and concussion, is highly ac-
curate and demonstrates superb
terminal ballistics. CORBONs 125-
grain JHP is also a winner for those
who prefer a more traditional bullet
design. In the longer-barreled .357s
(5, 6, 6-inches), virtually any 140- or
158-grain JHP will do, as the muzzles
velocities are sufficiently high to
allow bullet expansion.
ACHIEVE EFFICIENCY
To truly be considered efficient, a
defensive handgun must be capable
of fast presentations from the holster,
followed by accurate high-speed shot
placement, under the widest possible
variety of tactical and environmental
conditions. Thus, all the things weve
discussed mission definition,
weapon size, weight, barrel length,
stocks, trigger and hammer spur con-
figuration, caliber and load selec-
tionmake a great deal of
difference.
As it comes from the box, the DA
revolver has much potential. But it
can never reach its highest perform-
ance levels unless you consider all the
factors involved and select the best
combination of them for your needs.
The resulting increase in efficiency is
significant and, on some dark night
outside the convenience store or
ATM, just might save your life!
For the last 20 years, Chuck Taylor
has been rated as one of the top
three trainers in the world. In January
1996, he was honored when the Swiss
Army and Air Force formally adopted
his rifle, submachine gun and hand-
gun techniques. Since then, more
than 300,000 personnel have been
trained in his methods.
In 2003, the Belgian Army fol-
lowed suit, and approximately
100,000 additional personnel were
trained.
SMALL-FRAMED
Chambered for either the
.38 SPL or the .357 Magnum
Typically come with a
2-inch barrel
Known as snubbies
Easily concealed
Convenient to carry
Small size and short sight
radius make them tough
to shoot well under stress
Muzzle velocities are
considerably reduced
Dont shoot anywhere
near point of aim
LARGE-FRAMED
Typically available with adjustable
sights
Can use the entire spectrum of .38
SPL or .357 Magnum bullet weights
and types
Excellent balance of weight, handling
qualities and user-friendliness
Controllable with most .357 Magnum,
.44 SPL or .45 Auto Rim ammunition
Bulky and quite heavy, which might
be a major concern if concealment
and/or daily carry are involved
Slower holster presentations
Weight and bulk aid controllability in
fast shooting sequences
Hammer spurs,
too, should be
kept as smooth
and as small as
possible to pre-
vent skin abrasion
and snagging dur-
ing concealed
carry presenta-
tions.
For the most
consistent grip
index during fast
weapon presenta-
tions and shoot-
ing sequences, a
grip adaptor or
target stocks are
worth consider-
ing. However, en-
sure that a
cylindrical speed
loader will clear
the left-side
panel.
After-market or
custom stocks have
always been popu-
lar and with good
reason; however,
make certain they,
too, allow inser-
tion of a speed
loader and arent
so large as to de-
grade weapon con-
cealment.
Side By Side | How They Compare as Backup Guns
IT CAN NEVER
REACH ITS HIGHEST
PERFORMANCE
LEVELS UNLESS
YOU CONSIDER
ALL THE FACTORS
INVOLVED
FP_1404_79 1/6/14 10:38 PM Page 79
STAYTHE CO
GPS
BG_GPS.EP.qxP 1/8/14 3:14 AM Page 80
URSE
KEEP ON TRACK
WITH THESE
TACTICAL-WORTHY
GPS UNITS
UIT WALKING IN CIRCLES.
When it comes to GPS
units, we know there are a lot of
options out there. Do you need
3D maps? An altimeter? A barometer? An
odometer? Wireless Internet capability? Pa-
perless geocaching? After a point, everything
all starts sounding the same.
Heres the thing: When it comes to
getting the job done, you know what you
need to do. And we know you. So here are
our best GPS picks, from the technologically
fancy to the rugged basics.
You can tell the rest to get lost.
Q
BY ELISE PORTALE AND PHOTOS BY GUS ALONZO
BG_GPS.EP.CX.qxP 1/9/14 10:57 PM Page 81
2
GARMIN
Model: eTrex 20
Key Features:
GPS/GLONASS com-
patible, application
dashboard for
weather, elevation
and odometer
MSRP: $199.99
www.garmin.com
Description: Who
wants to fumble
with a cycle of
screen after screen
when youre in the
1
BUSHNELL
Model: BackTrack
D-TOUR
Key Features: Self-calibrat-
ing utilities, compact
MSRP: $144.95
www.shopbushnell.com
Description: Its easy to
get caught up in colorful
screens and fancy apps, but
when it comes time to get
out of dodge, all you really
need is a GPS that will get
you where you need to go.
Built on the concept of get-
ting you from point A to
point B and back again, this
rugged and weather-resis-
tant GPS can go the dis-
tance, all while keeping you
informed of temperature,
altitude, latitude/longitude
coordinates, distance
traveled and your average
travel time. Plus, at a mere
6 ounces, this pocket-sized
pup wont ever hold you
back.
MSRP:
$199
MSRP:
$144
3
GARMIN
Model: Monterra
Key Features: Compatible
with Google apps, records
HD video, built-in UV sensor
MSRP: $649.99
www.garmin.com
Description: If you want
it all, this unit is for you.
This wifi-enabled GPS runs
off of the Android OS, so
you have access to Google
apps and games, while giv-
ing you full access to all of
your favorite social media.
The built-in 8-megapixel
camera takes geo-tagged
photos while the 1080p HD
video camera can record
your favorite moments. But
despite all the bells and
whistles, this baby is still a
GPS at heart, offering 3D
maps, a built-in three-axis
electronic compass with
accelerometer and gyro, a
WAAS- and GLONASS-
enabled GPS receiver and
even a UV sensor to help
you monitor your exposure.
This is a GPS thats truly got
your back.
field? With the eTrex 20, all the
information you need is right at
your fingertips. Keep an eye on
your map, elevation, odometer
and more with a customizable
dashboard and personalize your
functionality, whether youre a
hiker, a Marine or just enjoy
geocaching. With the addition
of advanced tracking options
and simultaneous GPS and Russ-
ian Federation GLONASS satel-
lite tracking, you will always
know where you are and what
to expect next.
MSRP:
$649
EXPERT ADVICE
Whether youre a professional or a rookie, GPS units are essential. If off road, it keeps you apprised of your actual location
on a minute-by-minute basis. Manual topo- or regular map reading cannot. Chuck Taylor, NRA-certified gun expert
4
GARMIN
Model: tactix
Key Features: Watch de-
sign with green LED dis-
play, auto-calibrating
altimeter and barometer
MSRP: $449.99
www.garmin.com
Description: Get ready
to look the part. With this
high-sensitivity GPS, you
can create routes, record
up to 1,000 waypoints and
keep track of your environ-
ment with the automatic-
calibrating altimeter,
barometer and three-axis
compass. Born for tactical
use, this unit features U.S.
Tides and Jumpmaster fea-
tures for amphibious and
airborne ops while the
green LED liquid crystal
display will never flare out
your night-vision goggles.
Throw all that functional-
ity into this slick and sick
black watch design and
youll look as bad as you
feel.
5
MAGELLAN
Model: eXplorist 510
Hunter Edition
Key Features: Color
touch-screen, detailed
2D and 3D maps
MSRP: $329.99
www.magellangps.com
Description: Lets talk
user-friendly. Com-
bine an intuitive touch
screen with the reliabil-
ity of classic and cus-
tomizable hard buttons
and youve got the
MSRP:
$449
MSRP:
$329
6
DELORME
Model: inReach SE
Key Features: Two-way text
messaging, on-call
SOS search and rescue
monitoring center
MSRP: $299.95
www.inreachdelorme.com
Description: Stay con-
nected even in the farthest
reaches of nowhere. With
the inReach SEs text mes-
sage capabilities, you can
keep in touch with your
team even when cell phones
cant do the job. The highly
accurate GPS system is im-
pact-resistant, water- and
dustproof and can run for
100 hours with battery-sav-
ing features turned on. And
if you find yourself in a
bind, there is an SOS button
that connects you to De-
Lormes search and rescue
monitoring center so they
can help you when no one
else can.
eXplorist 510. This rugged GPS pro-
vides accurate navigation with
more than 30 navigational data
fields, and 3D and topographic
maps. The World Edition map is
pre-loaded on the device for com-
plete road networks throughout
the U.S., Canada, Western Europe,
Australia and major roads world-
wide, including cartographic infor-
mation. And with this Navionics-
compatible unit, allowing you to
track your trips across bodies of
water, nowhere on earth is off
limits.
MSRP:
$299
PROS VS. JOES
What You Need
To Look For
PROS
Target price: $300
Must-haves: Elevation,
temperature, compass, rugged case
JOES
Target price: $200
Must-haves: Actual location
pinpointing, go-to
direction capability
WITH A
T
R
A
I
N
UST OWNING A DEFENSIVE
RIFLE DOES NOT MAKE YOU
SAFE. IT IS YOUR ABILITY TO
USE IT THAT COUNTS IN THOSE
MOMENTS OF NEED.
About the time you think you have the
world of firearms sorted out, something
will come about that just throws you for
a loop.
About a year ago, Anschutz Sporting
Arms announced the release of its MSR
RX22 small-bore tactical training rifles. Lets
face it: Few shooters would ever think they
would see Anschutz and tactical used
in the same sentence. An Anschutz firearm
might be on your list if you were looking
for a fine-crafted European sporting rifle. If
you were training for a biathlon and
wanted a competitive edge, an Anschutz
match rifle would be perfect; however, An-
schutz firearms are not normally associated
with the world of tactical rifles. This pre-
conception may change now that the MSR
RX22, imported by Steyr Arms, is finally
reaching the American market.
J
WORDS AND PHOTOS BY TERRILL HOFFMAN
ANSHUTZ.EP.qxP 1/8/14 3:22 AM Page 86
PURPOSE
ANSCHUTZS
MSR RX22 WILL
ENHANCE YOUR
SKILL, SPEED
WHAT ITS GOT
The MSR RX22 is a semi-automatic chambered in .22
LR, and this may leave you wondering what is so tacti-
cal about a .22 at least until you get your first
glance at this new rifle. The resemblance to the FN
SCAR assault rifle cannot be denied, and this is where
the entire concept of a tactical training rifle begins to
become apparent.
First, there are advantages to training with the rim-
fire .22 LR round. Recoil is almost non-existent, and
noise level is greatly reduced over that of a centerfire
round. Both of these features enhance the shooting ex-
perience for a novice who may be intimidated by recoil.
For the experienced shooter, this chambering greatly
reduces the cost of training.
The size, weight and feel of the MSR RX22 are all
Dig This
RECOIL
Training with the
rimfire .22 LR
round makes
recoil almost
non-existent.
NOISE LEVEL
The .22 LR
greatly reduces
noise level over
that of a center-
fire round.
1 2
3
4
1. Before a new shooter goes to optics, he (or she) should train on traditional iron sights. First, learn the basics, and then, ad-
vance in your training.
2. The match rifle heritage of the Anschutz is apparent in the quality of their fold-down iron sights. These sights are fully ad-
justable for windage and elevation.
3. The controls of the MSR RX22 mimic full-blown assault rifles. You want to train to the point at which muscle memory comes
into play and your training can switch to more powerful weapons.
4. The MSR RX22 may be just a .22 LR, but it is a good place to start your marksmanship training. Without the excessive noise and
recoil, the new shooter can concentrate on the fundamentals.
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FP_1404_89 1/6/14 10:40 PM Page 89
similar to that of a full-sized assault rifle, and the operating controls are
the same. Even the magazines are sized to represent those of the centerfire
weapon.
Riflemen are made, not born. While some may be born with greater eye-
sight or dexterity, marksmanship is a skill, requiring training and practice.
This new tactical trainer allows you to practice to a degree where muscle
memory becomes a factor, which will increase both your skill and speed.
Another major point to consider while looking for a tactical trainer is ac-
curacy. Many will point out that a tactical rifle need not be as accurate as a
match rifle, and this may be true to a point; however, any training rifle
must be more accurate than the shooter using it. To correct a flaw in your
technique, you must realize it exists, and this will not be apparent if your
rifle wont hit the proverbial broad side of a barn.
Anschutz has done its part to ensure that the MSR RX22 would soon be-
come known for its accuracy. Its match rifles have won just about every
gold medal possible in the Olympics and a major portion of the credit can
go to its match-grade barrels. The MSR RX22 16.5-inch barrels are manufac-
tured to the same exacting tolerances with a special button-rifling process
and are finished with a recessed target crown.
The action is Anschutzs force-locking blowback action system with a
hammer lock. The single-stage triggers components are hardened and
finely ground to produce a fast trigger with a very consistent release.
The trigger is factory set at 4 pounds and can be adjusted from 3.3 to 5.5
pounds by the shooter.
RIFLEMEN ARE MADE, NOT BORN ...
THIS NEW TACTICAL TRAINER
WILL INCREASE BOTH YOUR SKILL
AND SPEED.
GOING
FOR THIS
MSRP
$895
While this rifle can be a good training
aide for a new shooter, it also makes
a fantastic hunting rifle for small
game. The .22 LR cartridge may not
have the power of a 5.56x45, but it
does have versatility.
No one can deny the similarities
between the FN SCAR and the MSR
RX22. But then again, that is the
whole idea. Take advantage of the
features of the .22 LR cartridge while
training for the more powerful
weapons.
FP_1404_91 1/6/14 10:42 PM Page 91
Anschutz has put in great effort in maintaining the
ergonomic characteristics similar to the FN SCAR, and
the MSR RX22 is friendly to both left-handed and right-
handed shooters.
The safety selector switch is ambidextrous and lo-
cated just above the pistol grip on both sides of the
rifle. The cocking handle may be moved to six different
locations (three per side) just under the top rail. To con-
tinue the ambidextrous features, the magazine may be
released from either side of the rifle. You might note
that the .22 LR magazine is encased in a shell to give it
similar outside dimensions as those found on a stan-
dard 5.56x45 rifle. The bolt will remain open after the
last shot, allowing a quick magazine change. Reloading
ANSCHUTZ
MSR RX22
The Specs
Anschutz MSR RX22
Caliber: .22 LR
Action: Semi-auto
Operating System:
Force-locking blowback action
Magazine: 10 rounds (2-, 5-, 20-
and 22-round magazines avail-
able)
Barrel: 16 inch with target
crown
Overall Length: 32.7 to 34.1
inches (25 inches folded)
Weight: 6.94 pounds
Stock: Polymer, foldable
Sights: Folding front (post) and
rear sight (aperture)
The MSR RX22 doesnt
look like your normal An-
schutz, but the quality
and the accuracy rivals its
match rifles. A shooter
may advance to a more
powerful weapon, but he
will never outgrow this
rifle.
3 Ways To
Reach Them
Steyr Arms
ADDRESS
Steyr Arms
7661 Commerce Lane
Trussville, AL 35173
PHONE
(205) 655-8299
WEB
www.steyrarms.com
is finished by slightly pulling back on the
cocking handle and releasing it to load a
new round. Speedy and secure magazine
changes are a skill that needs to be de-
veloped. When the training rifle is the
same size and operates the same as your
duty weapon, muscle memory goes a
long way in improving your abilities.
The buttstock of the rifle can be ad-
justed for the length of pull to three dif-
ferent positions and can also be folded
to the right side for compact carry. The
comb height of the stock may be slightly
raised by pushing one button and pulling
it upward.
A Picatinny rail runs the full length
along the top of the action and forend
to enable the mounting of optical sights
or scopes. It might be noted that a set of
fold-down sights are supplied with the
rifle. Additional accessories may be
added to any off the three 6-inch rail sec-
tions located at three, six and nine
oclock on the forend.
The MSR RX22 is available in four
slightly different configurations. All will
meet your needs, but you may want to
review each to find your best match.
Push the release and the stock will swing
180 degrees for compact carry. Even with
the stock folded, the rifle will still
function. With seven sling-attachment
points, this rifle will accommodate any
users needs.
The length of pull also
includes 1 inches of
adjustment. This rifle is
truly one-size-fits-all.
The comb height may be ad-
justed slightly for different
users, and the fold-down
iron sights may co-witness
with various optics.
ANSCHUTZ FIREARMS ARE JUST NOT
NORMALLY ASSOCIATED WITH THE
WORLD OF TACTICAL RIFLES. THIS
PRECONCEPTION MAY CHANGE
WEAR IT OUT
Anschutz has referred to this model as the MSR
RX22 Tactical Trainer and Small-Game Hunter.
More and more people are realizing that while
these rifles have a tactical appearance, they make
rather good sporting weapons. The more you use
your rifle, at the range or in the field, the more
proficient you will become. The MSR RX22 is a well
made firearm, and I have one suggestion for you:
wear it out! Practice makes perfect.
Terrill Hoffman has been writing for the gun
industry for more than 30 years.
ANSCHUTZ
I chose to place the charging handle
in the middle position on the left
side. The MSR RX22 gives you the
choice of three locations on each
side of the rifle.
The controls for the MSR RX22 are totally ambidextrous and are located similar to most as-
sault rifles. Even the magazine is sized to simulate a larger caliber to enhance your training.
If you are going
to train, dont
forget to train
with the acces-
sories you will
eventually add
to your rifle.
The MSR RX22
has plenty of
space to add
optics, lights,
lasers and any-
thing else you
can think of.
Skills
Enhanced
1
Skill
2
Speed
2
FP_1404_95 1/6/14 10:43 PM Page 95
WE BELIEVE IN THE
CONCEPT OF INFRARED
EVERYWHERE AND ARE
COMMITTED TO MAKING
THERMAL IMAGING A
PART OF EVERYDAY LIFE.
Q&A.EP.qxP 1/8/14 3:28 AM Page 96
FOR DECADES, FLIR
HAS BEEN AT THE
FOREFRONT OF
THERMAL IMAGING
OME 34 YEARS AGO, FLIR CREATED
CONDUCT EXTERIOR HOME
INSPECTIONS, LOOKING FOR HEAT
LOSS. SOON AFTER, THE COMPANY
BEGAN SEARCHING FOR NEW MARKETS
FOR ITS INFRARED TECHNOLOGY.
An airborne version of its imager for police
helicopters followed. By the mid-1980s, the
FLIR Ultra 2000 had become a mainstay of
airborne law enforcement operations around
the country.
The FLIR 2000 illustrates how FLIR developed
and created new technologiesand found
innovative new uses for existing technologies
that made their imagers more flexible, power-
ful and effective.
Basically, FLIR knows cool. And in the following
interview, CEO Andy Teich tells you about it.
Q Initially, you concentrated on a few areas,
such as stabilized thermal imaging cameras for
law enforcement aircraft. Why?
As is still the case today, the primary capabili-
ties of thermal imaging are night vision and re-
mote temperature measurement. Initially, IR
imaging systems were quite expensive. As they
moved from pure military usage into a dual use
mode, users that could most benefit from its
capabilities adopted it first. This turned out to be
airborne law enforcement for nighttime
surveillance, search and rescue and border
patrol applications.
Stylin Car Technology
Much like GPS technology, thermal imaging
migrated out of the military and into commer-
cial/consumer use. Today, FLIR technology can be
found in high-end automobiles, such as the Audi
A8, BMW 5 and 7 Series and the Mercedes-Benz
S-Class. Here, the thermal camera is used to de-
tect and discriminate humans and animals that
are beyond the reach of the headlights. After the
thermal camera detects the presence of a per-
son or animal, it alerts the driver to the condi-
tion. Some models include a Dynamic
Spotlight that automatically directs a spotlight
beam onto the object so the driver can better
see it.
This application not only makes night driving
safer, but it has also increased the awareness of
the benefits of thermal imaging in general.
Andy Teich
BY DOUG JEFFREY - PHOTOS COURTESY OF FLIR
TECHNOLOGICAL
PIONEER
S
Q&A.EP.qxP 1/8/14 3:28 AM Page 97
TECHNOLOGICALPIONEER
Q Tell us about your commercial and
government systems.
Our Commercial Systems (CS) division designs
and manufactures products for various industrial
and commercial markets where the primary re-
quirements are to either see at night and/or ad-
verse conditions or to detect and measure
minute temperature differences. Our CS division
sells thermal imagers for use in commercial and
infrastructure security, transportation safety, law
enforcement, recreational and professional mar-
itime, firefighting and hunting.
FLIRs Government Systems business is focused
primarily on government markets that re-
quire advanced tools for situational
awareness, as well as force protec-
tion, airborne and ground-based
surveillance, search and rescue, law
enforcement, perimeter security,
border and maritime patrol, navi-
gation safety, drug interdiction
and chemical, biological, radiologi-
cal, nuclear and explosives (CBRNE)
detection.
Q Has demand for your product in-
creased since the war against terrorism began?
Yes, as you would expect, demand for these
types of CBRNE (chemical, biological, radiologi-
cal, nuclear and explosives) systems has in-
creased. Our specialty in this field is in two areas:
First, we have very high-sensitivity products that
not only detect these agents but also identify
them. This is particularly useful when dealing
with a scene with multiple unknown agents in
the environment. Second, our products provide
lab-quality results in a field-portable package.
Again, this proves valuable when assessing a situ-
ation in the field rather than in the laboratory.
Q What sets FLIR apart from the competition?
FLIR is unique relative to the competition in
three main areas.
First, is our product breadth. We have pio-
neered nearly every new commercial market for
thermal imaging in the last few decades. Starting
with the generic thermography (temperature
measurement) and surveillance markets and then
extending into security, maritime, personal vision
systems (hunting and law enforcement), trans-
portation, gas imaging, machine vision and tar-
geting.
Second is the fact that FLIR has the highest
volumes and is deeply vertically integrated. This
allows us to offer the most competitive prices to
What They Do
FLIR currently offers thermal and
non-thermal sensors in the following
categories: temperature measurement,
hunting, law enforcement, maritime,
security, traffic control, threat
detection, first responders, test
and measurement meters and
OEM components.
Find out more at
www.flir.com.
consumers for thermal imaging tech-
nology.
And third is the fact that we are
constantly innovating with new prod-
ucts and technology. We spend ap-
proximately 10 percent of our
revenues on research and develop-
ment (about $150 million in 2013),
which has resulted in a steady stream
of new products and new ways for
consumers to be able to utilize ther-
mal imaging.
Q Describe how the thermal night
vision works and how your product
differs from others.
Night vision is a term that is associ-
ated with two very different types of
technology: the traditional green
night visiontechnically called
image intensifiers, or I
2
for short
and thermal night vision. The former
is an optical technology that actually
intensifies existing light sources, such
as moonlight or a small amount of
light emitted from a video camera. I
2
also captures the lower end of the in-
frared spectrum. Nonetheless, its still
an optical process that requires re-
flected lightalbeit very faintto
create an image.
On the other hand, thermal im-
agers use a microbolometer that de-
tects infrared heat radiation, which is
invisible to the naked eye, and con-
verts it into grayscale video. As a re-
Quick Facts
ThermoSight
R-Series
WHAT
This is the worlds first
thermal night-vision
rifle scope commer-
cially available for less
than $3,500.
THE SPECS
When used with the
FLIR Scout-PS hand-
held thermal imager,
hunters have the per-
fect combination for
tracking and targeting
varmints, like feral
hogs and coyotes, with
the power of thermal
imaging.
Q&A.EP.qxP 1/8/14 3:28 AM Page 98
sult, a thermal imager requires no visible light to
create an image. A thermal imager also detects and
displays minute differences in heat, so the body
heat of a person or animal will stand out clearly
from a cooler background, such as a forest at night.
In I
2
night vision, a person wearing camouflage
could potentially blend into a background and be
more difficult to detect, whereas, with thermal,
their body heat would be obvious, regardless of the
clothing they wore.
Thermal imaging is impacted by environmental
conditions, however. It doesnt operate well in
heavy fog or heavy rain, and it cant detect through
glass.
By the way, there are also two types of thermal
sensors: cooled and uncooled. Cooled IR sen-
sors are highly sensitive and produce images with
extremely fine detail at long ranges, using
comparatively smaller volume lenses. However,
these sensors require an internal cooling unit that
keeps the sensor at a constant, frigid temperature.
Uncooled IR sensors, however, operate without the
need of additional cooling. They have few to no
moving parts and are especially rugged, shock-resis-
tant and less expensive.
Finally, FLIR has created a technology called
Multi-Spectral Dynamic Imaging, or MSX, that
By the Numbers
1978
The year FLIR
was founded
10
The percentage amount of an-
nual revenues spent on re-
search and development
150
In millions of dollars, the
amount spent on R and D
in 2013
12 to 24
In months, the time require-
ment for a product to evolve
from idea to completion
extracts information
from a video image
and superimposes de-
tail on top of a ther-
mal image for greater
clarity. It is an actual
fusion of optical and
thermal video.
Q How is thermal
imaging different and
better than radar?
The biggest advantage of thermal imaging
versus radar is that, with a thermal imager. the
user is presented with a live video image of
the scene that is easy to interpret. Radar typi-
cally presents a two-dimensional plot that rep-
resents a top down view of the area. Weve
found in both security and maritime applica-
tions that users find thermal much easier to in-
terpret than radar. That said, they are both
good technologies, and they augment each
other. For example, we frequently use radar as
a cueing device to point a thermal imager
at a target. This can be particularly useful
when scanning a very large area, such as a
border or a harbor. The radar finds the target,
and the thermal is used to see what it is.
Q What does the future hold?
Thermal imaging is still in its infancy. The
biggest barriers to broad scale adoption of
the technology are price and awareness. FLIR
has been very focused on lowering prices
and increasing awareness of the benefits of
thermal imaging. As prices have come down,
volumes have increased significantly, and we
expect this trend to continue. As this pro-
gresses, FLIR will continue to be a leader in
the industry, pioneering new applications
and delivering high quality products to a
wide range of applications. We believe in the
concept of Infrared Everywhere and are
committed to making thermal imaging a
part of everyday life.
ABCs of a
Thermal
Imager
A thermal imager
detects heat energy
rather than visible
light, making it possi-
ble to see at night or
in adverse conditions
and as well as meas-
ure minute tempera-
ture differences.
THE DEMAND FOR THESE TYPES OF
CBRNE (CHEMICAL, BIOLOGICAL, RADIOLOGICAL,
NUCLEAR AND EXPLOSIVES) SYSTEMS HAS
INCREASED.
Q&A.EP.qxP 1/8/14 3:28 AM Page 99
GOTCHA COVERED
TEN REASONS TO GET A RUGER LCP
OU CANT ARGUE WITH SUCCESS.
RUGERS LCP .380 HAS
PROVEN TO BE ONE OF THE MOST
POPULAR PRODUCTS THE COM-
PANY HAS EVER PRODUCED.
WHILE SALES FIGURES ARE CONSIDERED A
COMPANY SECRET, THE TOTAL SALES CAN BE
MEASURED IN THE TENS OF THOUSANDS, TO
BE SURE.
On back order for years, the LCP can now be
found with relative ease even if the ammo
cannot. In the following story, youre going to
get 10 reasons why I believe you should own one.
As youre about to see, the Ruger LCP .380 has
gotcha covered.
ONE: COOPERS GUIDELINES
The late, great Jeff Cooper once said any gun
intended for combat should have three features: a
smooth trigger, good sights and complete reliabil-
ity. Truth be told, Cooper would have never ap-
proved of the LCP, but it does come close to
meeting his standards.
First, the gun offers complete reliability with
every bullet weight and design. I undertook a
300-round test with a new LCP and found that not
only did it never fail, it worked with every hollow
point I could find.
Newer LCPs also come with a usable set of fixed
sights and a shorter length of pull on the trigger,
which make it a
much more
desirable pistol.
TWO: FLAT
The gun is a
mere inch wide,
meaning that it can
be slipped into
most any carry lo-
cation. A bulky gun
is harder to carry
and conceal; thus, the flatness of the LCP makes it
quite desirable.
TEXT AND PHOTOS BY DAVE SPAULDING
Y
Dig Deeper
Ways To Reach the Author
WEB
www.handguncombatives.com
EMAIL
handguncombatives@gmail.com
The author loves the
compactness of the
firearm. The LCP is
just 5 inches long.
RUGER.EP.qxP 1/8/14 3:32 AM Page 100
THREE: LIGHT
Weighing in at a feathery 9.4 ounces, the LCP
can easily be forgotten until it is needed, regardless
of the clothing worn. The gun is built using a glass-
filled nylon frame, which results in a high level of
strengtha steel level of strength to be quite
frankwhile reducing weight.
FOUR: COMPACT
The LCP is 5 inches long. Most snub-nose re-
volvers are 6.5 inches long. This offers a 2 -inch
barrel instead of a 1.8- to 2-inch barrel for the
revolver.
The height is a mere 3.6 inches versus the typical
5 inches found on the typical snubby.
FIVE: DURABILITY
The super-tough, glass-filled nylon frame is com-
bined with a blued carbon steel slide and barrel for
a long service life.
The recoil spring is a dual spring configuration
that will help keep the slide from battering the
frame, even with hot loads.
SIX: RELIABILITY
As previously stated, the LCP will shoot any
ammo style currently available. While every
human-designed/engineered machine will
eventually fail, the LCP will go a long time before
this failure level is reached. Ruger has a reputation
for over building its guns, and the LCP is no
exception.
SEVEN: COST
The Ruger LCP has an MSRP of $379, but lets be
honest: Search online or at a gun show and the
cost of the LCP will be something closer to $300.
This falls within the budget of most every
American.
EIGHT: EFFECTIVE
While the .380 cartridge, especially from a short
barrel, is less than ideal, it can still be effective
when loaded with an expanding bullet. It has been
my experience that most hollow-point loads will
not expand when fired from the short LCP, though
two have proved to be the exception.
The Hornady Critical Defense, using its Flex Tip
technology, has proved the merit of a bullet that
pushes flat instead of one that features tradi-
tional expansion, resulting in a load that expands
to .48 caliber in ballistic gelatin.
The Corbon DPX all-copper hollow point also
expands when fired from the LCP, resulting in
.52-caliber expansion.
NINE: CONVENIENCE
The LCP can be carried places where larger guns
might not do. Locations like the beach or when the
weather is hot, when coats and heavy clothing
would stand out, make the LCP the perfect
light/minimal-clothing companion.
Extreme cold weather can also be a good use of
the LCP. When the wind and snow are blowing and
the heavy coat is zipped up tight, the LCP can be in
an outer pocket where it can be easily drawn with
minimal motion.
TEN: BACKUP
If you have made the wise decision to carry a
larger, more powerful sidearm, then the LCP could
be the perfect backup gun. Because the pistol can
be hidden most anywhere, the location of your
backup gun is really up to you.
While it is easy to dismiss the LCP as not
enough gun, it is certainly better than using
empty hands, a knife or throwing rocks. A firearm
is a stand-off weapon, allowing the shooter to
keep attackers at a distance. The larger, more pow-
erful the gun (rifle, shotgun or handgun), the
greater the stand-off distance will be. While the
LCP may only offer a maximum effective distance
of, say, 15 yards Ill take it!
Dave Spaulding, who has 36 years of law
enforcement and federal security experience, is
the owner of the Handgun Combatives Training
Program.
The compactness of the Ruger is showcased here.
THE GUN OFFERS COMPLETE
RELIABILITY WITH EVERY BULLET
WEIGHT AND DESIGN.
DAVE SPAULDING, OWNER OF THE
HANDGUN COMBATIVES TRAINING PROGRAM
ACTUAL SIZE
9.4
3.6
In inches,
the guns
height
5 In inches, the length
$379
In dollars,
the MSRP
In inches, the guns width
T
H
E

N
U
M
B
E
R
S

G
A
M
E
2 In inches, the barrels length
In ounces, the guns weight
RUGER.EP.CX.qxP 1/9/14 10:57 PM Page 101
T
H
E

R
I
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F
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M
U
L
A
BARREL LENGTH VS.
USER-FRIENDLINESS:
ATTAIN MAXIMUM
EFFICIENCY IN TACTICAL
PRECISION RIFLES
BARREL.EP.qxP 1/8/14 3:55 AM Page 102
ONE OF THE MOST IMPORTANT ISSUES
BARREL LENGTHIS ALMOST ALWAYS GIVEN
A LOW PRIORITY OR IGNORED ENTIRELY.
CHUCK TAYLOR, FOUR-WEAPON COMBAT MASTER
Particularly when used in conjunction with the .308 WIN cartridge, 22-inch barrels are a
good balance of performance and user-friendliness. The .308 WIN isnt greatly affected by
the velocity reduction, and the rifle is easy to carry and utilize under field conditions. Such is
not the case, however, with cartridges that normally produce more than 3,000 fps. With
them, performance is seriously degraded and muzzle flash is noticeably increased.
HE CONTROVERSY IS
ENDLESS.
AS LONG AS
THERE HAVE BEEN
TACTICAL PRECISION RIFLES, DE-
BATE HAS CENTERED ON WHICH
COMBINATION OF FEATURES IS
BEST. WHETHER ITS IN GUN
MAGAZINES OR AMONG TPR
SHOOTERS THEMSELVES, THESE
CONVERSATIONS HAVE CONTIN-
UED NON-STOP FOR AS LONG AS
I CAN REMEMBER.
The problem is that most of the
participants have followed a rigid
formula as to which features and
characteristics a TPR should incor-
porate. In many cases, the formula
is sufficiently efficient to provide
them with a TPR thats more capa-
ble than theyll ever need or be
able to use. However, more often
than not, the direct opposite is
truethe combination of features
they select for their TPR actually
prevents it from reaching its maxi-
mum potential.
Particularly among novices and
less-experienced shooters, discus-
sion of the best calibers, loads,
stocks, scopes, rings, bases and trig-
gers is important. But surprisingly,
one of the most important issues
barrel lengthis almost always
given a low priority or ignored en-
tirely. This is unfortunate because
its equally as important.
T
TEXT AND PHOTOS BY CHUCK TAYLOR
DEFINING NEEDS
Maximum efficiency can only be achieved with a careful, realistic definition
of the shooters needshis mission requirements, if you will. Otherwise, ex-
cessive time, energy and money are spent, with the shooter usually ending up
with a rig thats considerably less effective than it would have been
had mission-definition first been accomplished.
Those who operate in an urban/suburban environment or
who might have to transport or store the weapon in an air-
craft, boat or automobile typically opt for a shorter barrel.
Unfortunately, they also often select a high-performance
cartridge that, because of the reduced velocities inherent
to a short barrel, will be incapable of performing as ex-
pected.
Its true that user-friendliness is important; make no mis-
take about that. However, performancethe ability of the
weapon and its operator to deliver the goods as expected
under the widest possible variety of circumstancesremains the
overall goal. Thus, it, too, is an important consideration.
However handy they may be, barrel lengths of 18 to 20 inches should not
be used in conjunction with high-performance cartridges because their
muzzle velocities are degraded to unacceptable levels and muzzle flash is in-
creased. Indeed, the reduction of the .300 WIN MAG to .30-06 or .308 WIN
performance levels, along with the accompanying increase in muzzle blast, is,
to say the least, unwelcomed and unsatisfactory.
Instead, if you opt for a barrel that short, go with the .308 WIN or .30-06 in
the first place. Theyre not dependent upon magnum velocities to reach their
maximum performance levels. Thus, for them, the reduction in muzzle veloc-
ity that accompanies a short tube isnt as detrimental.
As a compromise between performance and user-friendliness, a fair per-
centage of TPR shooters choose a 22-inch barrel. Without question, its true
that a 22-inch barrel is still relatively handy, but its still too short to
efficiently handle high-performance cartridgesthat is, car-
tridges that produce more than 3,000 fps. As previously dis-
cussed vis--vis the 18- to 20-inch barrel, muzzle velocity is
reduced to that of lesser-power cartridges, making mag-
num-class performance an impossible goal. Muzzle flash,
too, is still unacceptably intense.
It is for these reasons that most factory and custom
TPRs come with a 24-inch barrel. Though admittedly less
handy when utilized in tight places, with typical bullet
weights, results with cartridges that produce less than 3,000
fps are quite sufficient. While performance with cartridges that
produce more than 3,000 fps isnt maximized, velocity reduction is
relatively small and wont reduce their capabilities to sub-3,000 fps levels.
TPR shooters who prefer high- and ultra-high performance cartridges
those producing substantially more than 3,000 fpsusually decide to simply
live with a 25- or 26-inch barrel, even if they are less user-friendly. Cartridges
like the .30-338, .300 WIN MAG, .300 WBY MAG, .300 ULTRA MAG, .338
Lapua, et al., especially if used with lighter bullets, are capable of velocities in
excess of 3,400 fps and need the longer barrel to reach such velocities to do
their magic. To use them in shorter barrels would simply be a waste of pow-
der, result in excessive muzzle flash and recoil and get only a marginal
3 Steps
To Perfection
1
Think about your needs.
2
Select the cartridge.
3
Select the barrel length that
best satisfies those needs.
Shorter barrels,
such as on this 18-
inch SIG M550
5.56mm, do allow
more convenient
handling, but they
also degrade
muzzle velocities
substantially. This
reduces stopping
power, penetra-
tion and ranging
capabilities, re-
ducing the per-
formance of some
cartridges to
unacceptable
levels.
This SAKO custom
.260 Ackley fea-
tures a 20-inch
heavy barrel, but
velocities of more
than 3,000 fps are
possible only with
bullets of 100
grains or less. It is
highly accurate
and easy to carry
in the field, but its
short barrel de-
grades its per-
formance to the
point at which its
enhanced per-
formance is virtu-
ally eliminated
and no better
than a standard
.260 REM.
Chronographed
Velocities
WHAT WAS USED
.308 WIN (7.62x51mm
NATO)
Black Hills 168-grain
BTHP Match
Barrel Lengths:
18 to 26 inches
All rifles were Remington
M700 BDL Custom TPRs
unless otherwise specified
Know This
ASSERTION
Critics of shorter
barrels claim
they degrade
velocity, increase
muzzle flash
and degrade
accuracy.
FACT
Such claims
are false. Barrel
length has
nothing to do
with accuracy.
WHICH BARREL
LENGTH IS BEST?
IT DEPENDS UPON
YOUR MISSION
REQUIREMENTS
AND THE
CARTRIDGE
YOU SELECT.
Many semi-auto TPRs,
such as this
M1A/M14, are based
on standard battle
rifle designs and thus
have a 21 -inch bar-
rel, with a 3- or 4-
inch-long flash
suppressor. Fortu-
nately, the .308 WIN
cartridge for which
theyre chambered
isnt so negatively af-
fected by the reduced
muzzle velocity that it
cannot fulfill its in-
tended function.
Twenty-four-inch
barrels are perhaps
the best balance of
performance and
user-friendliness.
The velocities of
sub-3,000 fps car-
tridges arent exces-
sively reduced and
those that produce
3,000 fps or more
arent degraded
enough to reduce
their performance
to the point in
which their superi-
ority over less-pow-
erful cartridges is
negated.
RESULTS
18-inch barrel
2,454 fps
20-inch barrel
2,513 fps
21 -inch
barrel
(M1A/M14)
2,543 fps
22-inch barrel
2,576 fps
24-inch barrel
2,635 fps
25-inch barrel
2,667 fps
26-inch barrel
2,701 fps
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BARREL.EP.qxP 1/8/14 11:36 PM Page 105
increase in efficiency in return.
Critics of the shorter barrels claim that they not
only degrade velocity and increase muzzle flash
but degrade accuracy as well. However, such
claims are false; barrel length has nothing whatso-
ever to do with accuracy. After all, short or not,
the barrel is still rifled and, as such, will stabilize
bullets just as well as if it were longer.
Twenty-five years of TPR experience has
repeatedly shown me that if a given
cartridge/load/bullet is capable of, say, MOA
from a 24- or 26-inch barrel, it will still produce
MOA from an 18-, 20- or 22-inch barrel. However,
its ranging and penetration capabilities will be
reduced correspondingly.
So, which barrel length is best? It depends upon
your mission requirements and the cartridge you
select. For urban/suburban missions, theres really
no advantage to a high-performance cartridge.
Better to opt instead for a lesser-powered car-
tridge such as the .308 WIN, where a barrel length
of 18 to 22 inches isnt a serious disadvantage.
On the other hand, if your mission is more rural
and longer shots are more frequently required,
then a barrel length of 24 to 26 inches is superior.
High- and ultra-high performance cartridges need
a longer barrel to produce the velocities required
for them to attain their maximum capability.
Ranging qualities and penetration are the hall-
marks of such cartridges, so if you use them, its
better to select a longer tube and simply live with
the increased awkwardness it causes.
Lengths of more than 26 inches, however,
should be avoided. Ballistic studies have repeat-
edly shown that the majority of propellant pow-
ders dont combust efficiently in such barrels. In
fact, due to increased bullet drag and other fac-
tors, they often exhibit lower velocities than those
generated in 24- to 26-inch tubes. In addition, as
should be obvious, with barrels that long,
user-friendliness is all but impossible.
DOING IT RIGHT
A brief recap: To ensure that you make the
right choices, first, think carefully about your
needs. Then, select the cartridge and barrel length
that best satisfies them.
Inefficient choices will result in your TPR being
less effective, less tactically versatile and perhaps
even dangerously deficient in the field. Out there,
only the hits count, and the winner takes all.
A former World-Class IPSC competitor and U.S.
Blue Team member, Chuck Taylor holds NRA Ex-
pert ratings with the light rifle, high-power car-
bine and high-power rifle. While on active
military duty, he earned Expert ratings with the
M1911 .45 ACP pistol, M1/M14/M16 rifles, M14A1
squad automatic weapon, M60 machine gun and
M79 grenade launcher and has successfully quali-
fied nine different times as a handgun combat
master with as many different handguns.
The best balance
between per-
formance and
user-friendliness
is with a 24-inch
barrel. Velocities
arent reduced
enough to seri-
ously degrade
cartridge per-
formance, and
the weapon itself
remains relatively
easy to carry and
utilize under field
conditions.
The authors
18-inch
barreled
DPMS LRT-
SASS .308
WIN pro-
duced a
superb
(.252-inch)
100-meter,
three-shot
benchrest
group with a
custom load
of 48.0-grains
of H-380 and
the Nosler
150-grain
Ballistic Tip
bullet.
The .223 REM
(5.56x45mm
NATO) is
dependent
upon velocity
for satisfactory
penetration and
stopping power.
Reductions in
muzzle velocity
degrade its
capabilities to
marginal levels.
Accuracy in
shorter barrels,
however,
remains
excellent.
Dig This
24
In inches, the barrel
length that creates
the best balance
between
performance and
user-friendliness.
Though more awkward to maneuver in tight places such as aircraft, boats and automobiles,
25- and 26-inch barrels are worth having if your cartridge generates more than 3,000 fps. The
slower-burning powders used in such cartridges require it. However, barrels longer than 26
inches should be avoided, as they are too clumsy in the field.
BARREL LENGTHS OF 18
TO 20 INCHES SHOULD NOT
BE USED IN CONJUNCTION
WITH HIGH-PERFORMANCE
CARTRIDGES
The Wrong Path
Inefficient choices
will do the following:
Make your TPR less
effective
Make it less tactically
versatile
Potentially make it
dangerously deficient
in the field
THE USP LEVEL 2 SURVIVAL KIT BY NITRO-PAK PROVIDES
5 ESSENTIAL ITEMS AND MORE
ONT YOU JUST LOVE
MURPHY?
If you are looking for a go-
bag for your home, vehicle or
the backwoods, then the USP (Urban Sur-
vival-Pak) Level 2 Kit contains quality gear
for covering survival priorities should you
ever run into our friend or have to
weather out a disaster in your region.
I tell my survival students that whether
you make your own kit or buy a premade
pack, the contents should cover five key pri-
orities: shelter, water, fire, first aid and sig-
naling. With this in mind, the new USP Level
2 Kit by Nitro-Pak fits this bill nicely with
plenty of quality gear not normally found in
a commercial kit. If youre looking for a sur-
vival pack that stands out from the crowd,
this is one you need to look at.
D
SURVIVAL
BY TONY NESTER - PHOTOS BY GUS ALONZO
1
Gerber
Multi-Tool
2
Several defensive
impact weapons
3
Two different
LED flashlights
4
Door
alarm
5
AM/FM
radio
Key Elements
Every survival
pack must have
Shelter
Water
Fire
First aid
Signaling
STAND OUT
FROM THE CROWD
How Its
Packaged
The items are
contained in a
Voodoo Tactical
ballistic nylon
backpack, which
has four com-
partments that
easily contain all
of the enclosed
survival gear
while leaving
room for a few
layers of clothing
or packets of
freeze-dried food.
PACK THESE 5, TOO
G
E
R
B
E
R

T
O
O
L
,

F
L
A
S
H
L
I
G
H
T
S

A
N
D

R
A
D
I
O

-

T
H
I
N
K
S
T
O
C
K

P
H
O
T
O
S
SURVIVAL.EP.qxP 1/8/14 4:25 AM Page 108
THE USP LEVEL 2 KIT
CONTAINS QUALITY GEAR
FOR COVERING SURVIVAL
PRIORITIES SHOULD YOU
EVER RUN INTO [MURPHY]
OR HAVE TO WEATHER OUT
A DISASTER IN YOUR
REGION.
TRACK THEM DOWN
WEB
WWW.NITRO-PAK.COM
PHONE
(800) 866-4876
1 KEY NOTE
If your kit is largely going to
be for an urban environment,
then you will want some
quality rations that dont
require cooking or provoke
thirst.
400
In the pack are nine
Millennium Energy Bars,
each containing this number
of calories.
TWO OR
THREE
These are some of the better
tasting rations on the market
and will sustain an average
adult for this number
of days, depending on
exertion level.
SHELTER
Redundancy with critical
gear is essential, and shelter
needs are suitably addressed with
a full-sized poncho, emergency
bivy bag and a Heatsheet.
WATER
There are six Datrex
water packets that will keep you
hydrated for a few hours until
you can obtain fresh water. The
critical area of water purification
is covered with 10 Micropur
tablets and an Aquamira water
bottle with built-in filter. There is
also a stainless steel cup that can
be used for boiling water.
FIRE
Storm-proof matches
and an adjustable lighter
are included. In addition, there
are Esbit fuel tablets and a col-
lapsible stove. Each fuel tab burns
for approximately 12 minutes, af-
fording enough time to brew up
a cup of survival coffee. A few
candles are also included.
FIRST AID
The medical kit is basic
but covers the essentials such as
steri-strips, field dressing, antibi-
otic ointment and other OTC
meds. I would augment this kit
with additional Benadryl and
ibuprofen, along with extra ni-
trile gloves.
SIGNALING
The USP Kit contains a
storm whistle and signal mirror.
Cyalume glow-sticks and the
aforementioned Heatsheet blan-
ket could also be used for alerting
searchers to your location.
Tony Nester is the author of six
books and several DVDs on sur-
vival. His school, Ancient Path-
ways, is the primary provider of
survival training for the military
special operations community,
and he has served as a consultant
for the NTSB, FAA and the film
Into the Wild.
1
2
3
4
5
G
E
R
B
E
R

T
O
O
L
,

F
L
A
S
H
L
I
G
H
T
S

A
N
D

R
A
D
I
O

-

T
H
I
N
K
S
T
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P
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O
S
By the Numbers | Urban Emphasis
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SURVIVAL.EP.CX.qxP 1/9/14 10:58 PM Page 109
SPECIALIZED
LEUPOLD 2.EP.qxP 1/8/14 6:15 AM Page 110
THE RESULT WAS A MARRIAGE MADE IN
HEAVENACCURATE, FUNCTIONALLY RELIABLE
AND VERY QUIET WITH A MUZZLE REPORT OF
LESS THAN A MILD HANDCLAP. CHUCK TAYLOR
O INTRODUCTION
IS NEEDED.
WHEN WERE
TALKING TELE-
SCOPIC SIGHTS, EVERYONE
KNOWS LEUPOLD, ITS SCOPES
HAVING BEEN THE CHOICE OF
AMERICAN SPORTSMEN AND
HUNTERS FOR MANY DECADES.
Some 10 years ago, when the art
and science of tactical scopes be-
came a category unto itself, once
again, Leupold led the way, becom-
ing the first American scope manu-
facturer to offer an entire category
of tactical scopes. Acceptance of the
new Leupold tactical scopes was vir-
tually instantaneous, and it wasnt
long before it came to dominate
the field entirely, a situation that
continues to this day.
N
STORY AND PHOTOS BY CHUCK TAYLOR
PERFECTION
LEUPOLDS MARK 2 TACTICAL SCOPES, IDEAL FOR TACTICAL
PRECISION RIFLES, GET THE JOB DONE AT AN ECONOMICAL PRICE
Yet, as the current recession illustrates, due to economic issues
and the increasing expense of technological improvement, the price
of tactical scopes has continually increased. As a result, regardless of
how good they are, many of todays tactical precision rifle shooters
simply cant afford them, thus creating the need for a line
of tactical scopes that are more economically priced.
But, as often occurs, an apparent paradox
emerges. The reduction in production expense
and resulting lower retail price tag also signals a
reduction in quality and performance.
As has been the case throughout the last
three decades, Leupold was the first to see and
understand the need for an economically priced
tactical scope without the almost total loss of
quality that usually entails. The result was its Mark
2 line of scopes, all of the basic 3-9x40mm (T-2), 4-
12x40mm (T-1) and 6-18x40mm (T-2) configurations
and all costing less than $600.
STANDARD FEATURES
Mark 2s come with either a fixed (T-1) or adjustable (T-1 and T-2)
parallax, positive -MOA (3-9x40mm and 4-12x40mm)or, in the
case of the 6-18x40mm, -MOAclick-adjustable elevation and
windage turrets with screw-on protective caps, adjustable ocular
lens and black matte finish. Reticle styles are also more varied than
one would expect with a low-priced scope. Not only do they have a
standard duplex, but Mil-Dot and LRV Duplex reticles are also avail-
able.
The scopes are rugged and waterproof with bright, clear lenses
and are guaranteed for life, something that tells you all you
need to know about Leupold. It stands 100 percent be-
hind its productseven the more economically
priced oneswhich is not universally the case
among scope manufacturers these days. If your
scope somehow defective when you buy it, Le-
upold will either fix it or replace it at no charge.
Even if you break it, provided that the circum-
stances integral to the event are reasonable, the
same applies. Now, that is saying something.
TACTICAL PRECISION RIFLES
Personally, I find the Mark 2 a good choice for tactical precision
rifles chambered for the .223 REM, 6mm REM, .243 WIN and such.
But when my test samplea 3-9x40mm with fixed parallaxar-
rived, I didnt have a rifle of that type available to mount it on. So,
after a bit of cogitation, I realized that the Mark 2 would also be a
perfect scope for specialized tactical precision rifles as well.
The term specialized tactical precision rifle is sometimes nebu-
lous, but I define it literally as a rifle capable of precise shot place-
ment thats suitable for specialized tactical missions.
3 Ways to Find Them
WEB
www.leupold.com
ADDRESS
Leupold & Stevens
14400 NW Greenbrier Parkway
Beaverton, OR 97006-5790
PHONE
800-Leupold
Leupolds Mark 2 tactical series offers excellent value for a
very economical price. The 3-9x40mm T-2 features a duplex
reticle, matte finish, -MOA elevation and windage adjust-
ments and an adjustable ocular lens, making it a good
choice for many types of tactical use.
Windage and elevation
turrets are protected
by screw-on caps, a
feature much appreci-
ated by those who
spend lots of time in
the field. Exposed tur-
rets are far more sus-
ceptible to damage or
inadvertent changes in
settings and are an ad-
ditional item to be con-
stantly checking.
The power cam ring of the
Mark 2 is easy to manipulate,
even in low light.
Field Test
Assessment of
the Mark 2
Tactical Scopes
AMMUNITION
Low Noise
hollow-points
ZEROED IN AT
50 meters and in
25-meter increments
CALIBRATED FROM
25 to 125
THE RESULT
50-meter three-shot
benchrest groups
resulted in 1-inch
being the norm
LEUPOLD 2.EP.qxP 1/9/14 10:53 PM Page 113
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FP_1404_115 1/6/14 10:46 PM Page 115
I have in my armory such a rifle, a military-
finished Browning semi-automatic takedown
rifle in .22 LR with an AWC sound-suppressor.
Intended to utilize sub-sonic .22 LR ammunition,
it was designed for a variety of special tactical
functions, from shooting out position-disclosing
light bulbs without endangering peripheral per-
sonnel to neutralizing hostage takers at ranges
of 50 meters or less with cranio-ocular head-
shots, all without the noise associated with gun-
fire.
It was the perfect platform for the Mark 2 3-
9x40mm T-2, so I immediately mounted it on
the rifle. With subsonic Remington (#SUB22HP),
37-grain, Low Noise hollow-points, I zeroed it
for 50 meters and, in 25-meter increments, cali-
brated it from 25 to 125. With this ammunition,
the rifle had proved itself to be quite accurate,
with 50-meter, three-shot, benchrest groups of
1-inch being the norm. The result was a mar-
riage made in heavenaccurate, functionally
reliable and very quiet with a muzzle report of
less than a mild handclap.
I was especially concerned that, being a low-
priced scope, the Mark 2 might not return to
zero if the turrets were turned to another set-
ting, then returned to their original, but my
fears were unfounded. During the calibration
process, this exact procedure is required, of
course, and it became immediately apparent
that the Mark 2s click-adjustment turrets would
both return from another setting to zero with-
out mishap.
Subsequent shooting using golf balls as tar-
gets showed beyond a shadow of a doubt that
the turrets were indeed returning to zero after
each time they had been moved to another set-
ting. As such, the effective range and tactical
versatility of the sound-suppressed Browning
was increased many-fold.
SEARCH NO MORE
So, if youre feeling the pinch of current eco-
nomics but want a good tactical scope, take a
look at the Mark 2. For use on many kinds of
tactical precision rifles, its a good choice and
performs considerably better than its modest
price would suggest.
A decorated veteran of two combat tours in
Vietnam, Chuck Taylor also has additional ex-
pertise in SWAT, counter-insurgency and
counter-terrorist operations. While on active
military duty, he earned Expert ratings with the
M1911 .45 ACP pistol, M1/M14/M16 rifles, M14-
A1 squad automatic weapon, M60 machine
gun and M79 grenade launcher and has suc-
cessfully qualified nine different times as a
handgun combat master with as many differ-
ent handguns.
FOR USE ON MANY KINDS OF TACTICAL PRECISION
RIFLE, [THE MARK 2] IS A GOOD CHOICE AND
PERFORMS CONSIDERABLY BETTER THAN ITS
MODEST PRICE WOULD SUGGEST.
Easily operated -MOA positive click-adjustable elevation and windage turrets are
standard on the Mark 2 series and are nicely engineered, as well.
The Mark 2 3-9x40mm
T-2 (fixed objective)
and 4-12x40mm T-1
with adjustable
objective are the
authors preferred
scopes for certain
SpecOps weapons.
THE SCOPES ARE RUGGED AND WATERPROOF WITH BRIGHT,
CLEAR LENSES AND ARE GUARANTEED FOR LIFE
The Scopes Features
Fixed (T-1) or adjustable (T-1
and T-2) parallax
Positive -MOA (3-9x40mm
and 4-12x40mm)
For the 6-18x40mm, -MOA,
click-adjustable elevation
and windage turrets with
screw-on protective caps,
adjustable ocular lens and
black matte finish
Reticle styles are varied
Rugged
Waterproof
Bright, clear lenses
Guaranteed for life
Maximum Efficiency
The MX Modular Tactical Lights
The MX Modular Tactical flashlight is an-
other noteworthy product from Leupold
and, like Leupolds scopes, reflects cog-
nizance of whats needed for maximum
efficiency.
MODELS
Available in two basic complete mod-
elsthe MX 200 and MX400the MX
series also encompasses separate bezels,
main tubes and tail switch assemblies,
thus allowing you to customize the light
to your specific needs.
The MX200 is a standard-type tactical
light with a single-light level, whereas the
MX400 is a multi-functional light, capable
of three addition functionsa highly in-
tense light, strobe and SOS flasher.
FEATURES
Both are waterproof and feature rugged
black anodized T-6061 aluminum con-
struction with knurling where needed, a
pressure and press-click switch (mounted
in the cap for easy manipulation with the
thumb) and wrist lanyard to prevent loss
in the event of an unexpected event re-
quiring the use of both hands for other
functions.
You can purchase the MX200 or
MX400 as complete units or buy several
different bezels, two- (MX020) or three-
(MX030) battery main tubes and tail
switches to create your own configuration
instead. My own efforts along these lines
resulted in an MX020 main tube with
MX400 multi-mode bezel, allowing me to
do most anything I could ever want to do
with a tactical light while keeping it com-
pact and user-friendly. Both complete
units and main tube assemblies come
with batteries, which is also a nice touch.
EXCELLENCE
These two products illustrate that, from
both an economic and mission-satisfac-
tion standpoint, Leupold has an unsur-
passed grasp of customer needs. As a
result, it has something for everyone
scopes, spotting scopes, flashlights,
rangefinders and binoculars.
Yet, as opposed to many other manu-
facturers of such products, all of Leupolds
many offerings represent a well defined
understanding of the customers needs
rather than things intended simply to fill
in the various merchandise categories. In
conjunction with its unbeatable customer
service, that understanding, along with its
commitment to quality, continues to de-
fine Leupold as the leader in the field of
optical devices.
Check them out. Im sure youll agree.
Compact, rugged and efficient, MX
tactical lights are a must-have for
any serious tactical shooter.
MX
Components are offered to configure the MX light into a
number of variations to enhance its tactical effectiveness.
What Theyve Got
The MX Modular Tactical
Flashlights
Waterproof
Rugged black anodized T-6061
aluminum construction with
knurling where needed
A pressure and press-click
switch (mounted in the cap for
easy manipulation with the
thumb)
Wrist lanyard to prevent loss in
the event of an unexpected in-
stance requiring the use of
both hands for other functions
New Leupold MX tactical
lights are super tough,
exceptionally well designed,
highly user-friendly and
tactically versatile. In addition,
their component concept allows
semi-customizing of the light to
specific needs by its operator.
Snap-on wrist lanyards are also
included with all MX lights.
Front
back
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WORTH A SECOND LOOK
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Beauty2.EP.qxP 1/8/14 6:16 AM Page 120
FIREPOWER
Free FIREPOWER app
Now
FP_1404_121 1/6/14 10:49 PM Page 121
u
.
s
.

m
i
l
i
t
a
r
y
LIVE
FIRE
72 HOURS IN
AUSTRALIA
Whats Inside
Serious Firepower: The Flamethrower
20/20: An Inside Look at a New Grenade Launcher Sight
72 Hours In Australia: Platoon Attack Ranges
In your face.
That slogan may have started in
MMA, but its real home is in the
military. This issues section is the
perfect example.
Not only are we going to open the
history books and check out one of
the baddest weapons ever, but were
going to take you to Australia and
put you right in the middle of the
action as the U.S. military conducts
training operations.
Whos bad?
PHOTO BY SGT. SARAH FIOCCO
MIL_INTRO.EP.CX 1/9/14 10:59 PM Page 122
20/20
ARINES FROM 3RD MARINE
REGIMENT CONDUCTED AN
M203 40MM GRENADE
LAUNCHER SHOOT WITH A
RECENTLY DEVELOPED SIGHT AS PART OF
FIELDING AND NEW EQUIPMENT TRAINING.
Capt. Robert Tavzel, Marine Corps Systems
Command (MCSC) project officer for Lasers and Il-
luminators within Infantry Weapons Systems and
a native of Fredericksburg, Va., said the new sight
was developed in response to an urgent universal
needs statement (UNS). A UNS is used to identify
a mission-critical capability gap by forces conduct-
ing combat or specific contingency operations.
The grenade launcher sight [SU-277/PSQ] is
being fielded to supplement and potentially re-
place the AN/PSQ-18A sight because of the need
for something smaller and lighter, Tavzel said.
The GLS also features a holographic red-dot
sight for easier aiming and includes ballistic data.
Depending on the ammunition used, the sight
automatically adjusts itself. This is the initial field-
ing, and its much better than the old system.
IN THE MIDST OF TRAINING
Each battalion of 3rd Marines sent 25
warfighters to participate in the training. Chief
Warrant Officer 2 James Robertsongunner for
the 1st Battalion, 3rd Marines, and a native of
Houstonsaid the Marines received classroom
instruction on employment of the grenade
launcher sight, then moved to the range.
The system is very well put together, Robert-
son said. Its more compact and a good supple-
ment to customary sights. The dual modes
between rounds make it easy for Marines to work
with.
Robertson said the sight testing was a great
opportunity for the Marines to contribute be-
cause the Marine Corps is examining the results.
[The participating Marines] have an impact
on the future of the Marine Corps, Robertson
said. Their feedback, everything they say about
the sights performance, will go back to Quan-
tico.
As the Marines shot on one of five target
points, a personnel safety officer coached them
after each round was sent down range. The range
targets were painted yellow and scaled the side
of the hill, offering varied difficulty levels. Lance
Cpl. Joshua Whitea rifleman with 1st Bn., 3rd
Marines, and native of Austin, Texassaid, com-
pared with other sight systems, the grenade
launcher sight is far superior.
Its intuitive because it self-adjusts for differ-
ent ammunition, White said. For as often as we
carry the weapon, we dont have the opportunity
to shoot. It benefits us to be able to come out
and try to knock the rust off. We were able to
shoot accurately and properly evaluate the
system.
Bill Johnson-Miles, MCSC Corporate
Communications, contributed to this story.
BY LANCE CPL. SUZANNA LAPI, MARINE CORPS BASE HAWAII
M
Under the
Hood
Holographic red-dot
sight for easier aiming
and includes ballistic
data
Depending on the
ammunition, the sight
automatically adjusts
More compact and a
good supplement to
customary sights
Dual modes between
rounds
A NEW GRENADE
LAUNCHER SIGHT
IS CLEARLY SMALLER,
LIGHTER AND BETTER
Lance Cpl. Joshua White,
a rifleman with 1st
Battalion, 3rd Marine
Regiment, coaches as a
personnel safety officer
while a Marine shoots.
PHOTO BY LANCE CPL.
SUZANNA LAPI, U.S. MARINE
CORPS
Lance Cpl. Micah Hutson, a rifleman with 3rd Battalion, 3rd
Marine Regiment, aims an M203 40mm grenade launcher.
PHOTO BY LANCE CPL. SUZANNA LAPI, U.S. MARINE CORPS
THEIR FEEDBACK, EVERYTHING THEY SAY ABOUT THE
SIGHTS PERFORMANCE, WILL GO BACK TO QUANTICO.
JAMES ROBERTSON, CHIEF WARRANT OFFICER 2
GRENADE.EP 1/8/14 6:14 AM Page 123
SERIOUS FIREPOWER
THE FLAMETHROWER PLAYED AN IMPORTANT
ROLE IN MILITARY HISTORY
TS HISTORY DATES BACK TO 1943.
THE FLAMETHROWER, EQUIPPED WITH
GASOLINE TANKS AND A GUN GROUP,
WAS FIRST USED IN COMBAT BY THE U.S.
ARMY DURING THE BATTLE AT GUADAL-
CANAL. IN LATER YEARS, DURING WORLD
WAR II, ITS PRIMARY USE WAS AGAINST DE-
FENSIVE POSITIONS, SUCH AS BUNKERS.
These tanks were also able to reduce numer-
ous Japanese cave positions unassailable by the
infantry. Soldiers used the weapon to drive
Japanese riflemen out into the open, exposing
them to ammo fire from conventional weapons.
Eventually, the Marine Corps began using
flamethrowers in both the Korean and Vietnam
Wars.
TYPES OF THROWERS
There were two types of flamethrowers. One
was in a pack strapped to an infantrymans back;
the other was vehicle-
mounted that attached
to tracked tanks.
Most military
flamethrowers used liq-
uids; however, commer-
cial flamethrowers
typically operate on
high-pressure natural
gas or propane because
they are considered
safer.
Liquid-operated flamethrowers use a smaller
propane tank to expel the liquid. For safety rea-
sons, the propane tank is behind the combustible
liquid tanks.
HOW IT WORKS
The propane is fed into two tubes. The first
opens in the napalm tanks, providing the pres-
sure necessary for expelling the liquid. The other
tube leads to an ignition chamber behind the
exit of the gun assembly, where it is mixed with
air and ignited.
The pre-ignition propane line is the source of
the flame seen in movies and documentaries. As
the napalm passes through the flame, it is ig-
nited and propelled toward the target.
RISKS TO THE OPERATOR
Backpack flamethrowers posed the following
risks to the operator:
The weight impaired the soldier's mobility.
The flamethrower was limited to only a few
seconds of burn time because it used fuel quickly,
requiring the operator to be precise and conser-
vative.
The weapon was the most visible on the bat-
tlefield. As a result, operators were easily singled
out as prominent targets, especially by snipers.
BY ERIC KOWAL - PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE U.S. ARMY
I
Historical Years
1943
The year the flamethrower
was first used in combat
by the U.S. Army
1978
The year flamethrowers
were discontinued by the
U.S. military
THE USE OF FLAME WEAPONS IS ALWAYS A PUBLIC RELATIONS ISSUE DUE TO THE HORRIFIC DEATH THEY INFLICT.
FLAME.EP 1/8/14 6:12 AM Page 124
Did You Know?
Vehicular flamethrow-
ers may have had a
considerably greater
range than a man-
portable flamethrower,
but their range was still
short compared with
that of other infantry
weapons.
Operator Risks
1
The flamethrowers weight
impaired the soldier's
mobility.
2
The weapon created high
visibility, so the operators
became easy targets.
3
When captured, operators
were often executed.
4
The flamethrowers range
was short; therefore, the
operator had to move closer
to the enemy, creating a
greater risk for the solider.
Flamethrower operators were rarely
taken prisoner; when captured, most
were often executed.
The flamethrower's effective range
was short in comparison with that of
other battlefield weapons of similar size.
To be effective, flamethrower soldiers
had to approach their target, risking ex-
posure to enemy fire.
END OF AN ERA
Flamethrowers have not been in the
U.S. arsenal since 1978, which is the year
the Department of Defense unilaterally
stopped using them.
They have been deemed of question-
able effectiveness in modern combat,
and the use of flame weapons is always a
public relations issue due to the horrific
death they inflict. They are banned
under the Protocol on Prohibitions or
Restrictions on the Use of Incendiary
Weapons (Protocol III), which the United
States ratified Dec. 23, 2008.
Eric Kowal is a regular contributor to
World of Firepower.
The M132 was a U.S. military armed vari-
ant of the M113 and M113A1 armored per-
sonnel carrier. It was developed in the early
1960s and, eventually, some 350 vehicles en-
tered service.
The driver sat in the front left of the hull. A
small cupola in the center of the hull mounted
an M10-8 flame gun with a coaxial 7.62-mm
caliber M73 machine gun. The weapons could
be traversed though 360 degrees and elevated
to +55 degrees and depressed to -15 degrees.
The passenger compartment was removed
and replaced with an M10 fuel and pressure
unit and four spherical 50-gallon fuel tanks.
The 200-gallon fuel capacity enabled it to
fire for up to 32 seconds, and the pressure unit
enabled it to reach targets at a range of 200
meters.
The vehicle had a maximum speed of 40
mph.
The USMCs Armored Vehicle
The flamethrower
was first used in
1943, but its
effective range
was short compared
with other battle-
field weapons of
similar size.
FLAME.EP 1/8/14 6:12 AM Page 125
JOINT FORCES COMBINE FOR THREE DAYS OF LIVE FIRE,
FOCUSING ON PLATOON ATTACK RANGES
RADSHAW FIELD TRAINING AREA,
Northern Territory, AustraliaMarines
with Marine Rotational Force-Darwin
(MRF-D) moved through the extreme
heat and dry terrain of the Australian Outback to
send rounds flying at a simulated militia group of
rebels armed with 82mm mortars, two vehicles
and other weaponry.
This movement-to-contact exercise was just one
of three ranges in which Marines with Lima Com-
pany, 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, MRF-
Dalong with units from the 31st Marine
Expeditionary Unit and Australian soldiers with
Bravo Company, 5th Battalion, Royal Australian
Regimentworked to eliminate the enemy
threat as part of Exercise Koolendong.
Exercise Koolendong was about three days of
live-fire activity, focusing on platoon attack
ranges, said Capt. Raymond LHeureux, com-
manding officer, Lima Co., 3rd Bn., 3rd Marine
Regt., MRF-D. The MEU did a movement-to-con-
tact exercise where Lima Co. basically acted as one
of the supporting efforts and conducted their
range as if part of a larger operation.
To prevent the advancement of the paramilitary
force, MRF-D Marines executed a seamless plan of
attack.
We had to use a platoon-sized reinforced at-
tack to pin them down and eliminate the vehicles
and threat of the mortar systems, explained Lt.
Wesley Nix, platoon commander, 3rd Platoon, Lima
Co., 3rd Bn., 3rd Marine Regt., MRF-D. We
wanted to make sure the enemy couldnt egress.
The MRF-D Marines expertly accomplished that
mission by employing the firepower of their rifle-
men, assaultmen, mortarmen and machine gun-
ners.
The goal was to have the mortarmen engage
the enemy first while the machine gunners are set-
ting up for their support by fire, said Staff Sgt.
Daniel Hubbert, platoon sergeant, Weapons Pla-
toon, Lima Co., 3rd Bn., 3rd Marine Regt., MRF-D.
As soon as the mortar-
men had effective
rounds, the machine
gunners started occupy-
ing their support by fire.
At that point, the rifle-
men began their maneu-
ver to the objectives.
Assaultmen were em-
bedded with the rifle-
men the entire time, and
their job was to eliminate the two enemy vehicles
with Shoulder-Fired, Multipurpose Assault
Weapon rockets.
PROOF OF CONCEPT
Each day, MRF-D Marines traveled to the ranges
either on foot, by vehicle or by aircraft.
The range itself stayed the same through every
execution, but the methods of insertion changed,
TEXT AND PHOTOS BY SGT. SARAH FIOCCO
B
Team Effort
The more than 1,000
Marines and Australian
soldiers who trained here
made their point loud and
clear: They can, in fact,
successfully send rounds
down range while sustain-
ing themselves deep in
the Outback.
72 HOURS IN AUSTRALIA
A Marine fires a shoulder-launched,
multipurpose assault weapon as part
of a movement-to-contact training
evolution during the exercise.
72.EP.CX.qxP 1/9/14 11:06 PM Page 126
TWO is better than One
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Take advantage of this special offer and get a 1-year subscription to Fire Power with a 1-year
subscription to Gun World and SAVE UP TO 69% off the cover price!
Method of Payment Check enclosed Credit Card Money Order
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Enter Promo Code
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Allow 6 to 8 weeks for delivery of first issue. Outside US, add $48 per year for additional postage. Pay in US funds only.
FP_1404_127 1/8/14 11:33 PM Page 127
LHeureux explained. For the movement-
to-contact, we were motorized using the 7
tons, and then we executed an air assault
via an MV-22B Osprey and two CH-53E
Super Stallions. It just allowed us to prac-
tice different methods of travel to our ob-
jectives using the different abilities we
have as a Marine Corps.
Overall, the exercise acted as a proof of
concept to assess the capacity of the
ranges to support a battalion-sized live-fire
event.
Its a good training area where you can
get a lot of things done, LHeureux said.
Advertiser Page
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AD INDEX
WE HAD TO USE
A PLATOON-SIZED
REINFORCED ATTACK
TO PIN THEM DOWN
AND ELIMINATE THE
VEHICLES AND
THREAT OF THE
MORTAR SYSTEMS.
LT. WESLEY NIX, PLATOON
COMMANDER, 3RD PLATOON,
LIMA CO., 3RD BN., 3RD MARINE
REGT., MRF-D
Method of
Insertion:
Air Transport
Marines with Lima Co., 3rd Bn., 3rd Marine Regt., MRF-D, load into an MV-22B
Osprey from the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit during the exercise.
Lance Cpl. Justin Oatesmachine gunner,
Weapons Platoon, Lima Co., 3rd Bn., 3rd Marine
Regt., MRF-Dengages a simulated enemy
force with an M240B machine gun. Throughout
the exercise, MRF-D Marines conducted day-
and nighttime live-fire training.
1 - MV-22B Osprey
2 - CH-53E Super Stallions
72.EP.CX2.qxP 1/12/14 9:37 PM Page 128
TWO is better than One
Subscribe Now and SAVE BIG
only
$34.95
Take advantage of this special offer and get a 1-year subscription to Gun World with a 1-year
subscription to Fire Power and SAVE UP TO 69% off the cover price!
Method of Payment Check enclosed Credit Card Money Order
Payment through credit card Visa MC AMEX Discover Name on credit card
Credit card number Expiration da te / /
Subscriber name First MI Last
Address
City State
Phone
Email
Signature Date / /
YES! sign me up for a subscription to Gun World and
Fire Power
That is a total of 18 issues for a total savings of $78.87 off the cover price
For a full listing of our titles, visit www.engagedmediamags.com today!
Enter Promo Code
AN33K021
to subscribe
Log on Io www.engagedmediamags.com/combo_gwfp
0a|| our Io|| Iree no B00-764-627B
F||| ouI Ihe order Iorm be|oW and ma|| |I W|Ih your paymenI |nIormaI|on Io
8ec|eII Ned|a LL0, P 8ox ho. 70263, Ph||ade|ph|a PA 19176-9BB4
Allow 6 to 8 weeks for delivery of first issue. Outside US, add $48 per year for additional postage. Pay in US funds only.
FP_1404_129 1/6/14 10:54 PM Page 129
f
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n
a
l

s
h
o
t
n U.S. Army Spc. Ronnie Sciber (top), Sgt. Glenn Santos (left) and Spc. Kyle Hurt
participate in a nighttime live fire training exercise at the Iraqi Army Compound
firing range on Forward Operating Base Iskandariyah, Iraq.
DOD PHOTO BY CHIEF PETTY OFFICER EDWARD G. MARTENS, U.S. NAVY
FINAL.EP 1/8/14 6:10 AM Page 130
FP_1404_C3 1/8/14 11:31 PM Page C3
Booth 6502
Field-Changeable Mount Interface
(ANVIS or Dovetail)
Tilt Adjustment
Fore/Aft Adjustment
Integrated IR Illuminator
Interpupillary Distance Adjustment
Bungee Stabilizer Loops
Onboard or Remote Battery Compatible
Robust Machined Delrin Polymer Housing
Machined Aluminum Front & Rear Plates
Complete PVS-14 Optic Accessory Compatibility
U.S. Gen3 MX10160 Filmed/Autogated Tubes
Designed for Ground Combat Use
Waterproof to 66
Retrofit From Legacy ANVIS-9/AVS-6 Available
Made in the U.S.A.
FP_1404_C4 1/6/14 10:56 PM Page C4

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VOL.

2 ISSUE 7 APRIL 2014

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