SAR 19#7

SAR STAFF
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Chipotle Publishing, LLC
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SAR Vol. 19, No. 7 SEPT. 2015
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Felix A. Alejos Cutuli
Christopher R. Bartocci
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John Brown
Todd Burgreen
Bob Campbell
Chris A. Choat
Will Dabbs, MD
Leszek Erenfeicht
Teresa G. Ficaretta, Esq.
Robert Hausman
Michael Heidler
Jean Huon
Frank Iannamico
N.R. Jenzen-Jones
Richard Jones
George E. Kontis PE
Jean-Francois Legendre
Julio Montes
Ronaldo Olive
Paolo Ortenzi A.A.I.
David Pazdera
Maxim Popenker
Johanna Reeves, Esq.
Dean Roxby
Jim Schatz
Robert G. Segel
Dan Shea
Gabriele Tansella
Joseph Trevithick
Anthony Wicks
Anthony G. Williams
Jason Wong
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38

CONTENTS
COLUMNS
8 NEW REVIEW
By Chris A. Choat
14 LEGALLY ARMED
By Teresa G. Ficaretta, Esq. & Johanna Reeves, Esq.
17 OUR WORLD
By Scott Novzen & Robert G. Segel
93 CROSSWORD: SAROUND Selection
By Caroline Schloss
97 MG MEMORABILIA
By Robert G. Segel
FEATURES
18 Cobalt Kinetics
By David Lake
26 CC3 Grip System
By JM Ramos
32 Lage Manufacturing LLC
Upper Receivers for the M11/Nine
By Frank Iannamico
46
38 Battle Arms Development
By David Lake
46 CPX-2:
An Every Day Carry Gun for Everyone
By Chris A. Choat
52 The G2 RIP Ammunition
Next Generation Ammunition
By Christopher R. Bartocci
60 Japanese Taishō Type 11
By Robert G. Segel
72 Japanese Type 11 Light Machine Gun
Maintenance Wallet
By Robert G. Segel
76 Battle Rifle Company BR4 ODIN Rifle
By Chris A. Choat
83 Rock Island Arsenal Museum
By Peter Suciu
CONTENTS
7
On the Cover:
Cobalt Arms
Photo by David Lake
SAR Vol. 19, No. 7

Glock Releases
Single Stack 9mm
NEW PRODUCTS
by Chris A. Choat
Glock, Inc. has just announced the
release of the new Glock single stack
slimline 9mm pistol, the Glock 43. The
G43 is the most highly desired and anticipated
pistol release in Glock’s history.
Designed to be the answer to everyday
concealed carry needs, the G43 is ultra-concealable,
accurate, and comfortable
for all shooters regardless of hand
size. The G43 sets a new standard for
concealed carry pistols. A true slimline
pistol, the frame width of the G43 is
just over one inch and the slide width
measures only 0.87 inch. The overall
length is 6.26 inches. For those who
have smaller hands, the trigger distance
is only 2.6 inches, making it ideal for
functionality. The single stack magazine
holds 6 rounds and is the perfect concealed
carry pistol for both duty and civilian
use. The G43 is engineered to the
same superior standards as all Glock
pistols and the reliability instills confidence
for all lifestyles. For more information
please go to www.Glock.us.
Caldwell Introduces
the AK-47 Mag Charger
and Ammo Boxes
SAR Vol. 19, No. 7 SEPT. 2015
8
Caldwell now brings the same revolutionizing
ammo loading process of the AR-15 Mag Charger to
the AK platform by introducing the new AK (7.62x39)
Mag Charger that is designed to hold 50-rounds from
any common 50-round ammo box. Simply align the
bullet tips with holes in the Mag Charger and dump
them in. Specially designed indexing tabs align all
the rounds in the loader at the same time. No need
to handle each round. Then insert your AK magazine
into Mag Charger, operate the plunger back and
forth and with each stroke 5 rounds are loaded until
the magazine is full. Now you can load 50 rounds
into two AK magazines in less than 15 seconds. Made
from a highly durable polycarbonate, the loader is
compatible with all 7.62x39 ammo. The loader allows
the user to load AK magazines in just seconds and

HIVIZ Announces New
LITEWAVE Series Sights for Ruger10/22
HIVIZ Shooting Systems is excited to introduce another
addition to their new fiber optic LITEWAVE rifle sight line —
now for the Ruger 10/22. Like all HI-VIZ LITEWAVE sights,
the new Ruger 10/22 front sight features a state of the art
exoskeleton frame made of carbon steel allowing an unprecedented
amount of light to enter their uniquely interchangeable
LitePipes. All LITEWAVE designs not only offer an even brighter
sight picture giving shooters faster target acquisition in a
variety of light conditions whether on the range or out on the
field, but also provide even more extreme durability than prior
HIVIZ sights with a streamlined design for easy target acquisition
of your favorite #1 plinker rifle. LITEWAVE for the Ruger
10/22 also offers the unique versatility of the interchangeable
LitePipe system for the front and rear sight, giving shooters a
variety of color choices for all shooting conditions. The unique
design and patented locking feature of the LitePipe system effectively
secures any color or size of sight in place providing
shooters the ultimate combination of durability and visual lighting
flexibility for their rifle. For the rear foldable sight, the HIVIZ
10/22 features simple elevation adjustments with the ability to
interchange the color of the LitePipe as well like all LITEWAVE
designs. The new LITEWAVE sight for the Ruger 10/22 and
many others are available today at HIVIZ retailers or check
them out at www.HIVIZSights.com. Retail price is just $48.95.
is compatible with all AK platform mags.
The loader loads 5 rounds per “stroke”
with an auto advance feature. Caldwell
also introduces their new Mag Charger
Ammo Boxes. The Mag Charger Ammo
Box is optimized to drop ammo into
the AR-15 and AK-47 Mag Chargers.
The AR ammo box will hold 50 rounds
of .223, 5.56 and .204. The AK ammo
box will hold 50 rounds of 7.62x39. The
durable polymer design is proven to be
extremely tough and great for long term
storage. The lid can easily be removed
for use when loading. They are available
in 5 Pack. For more information go to
www.BTIbrands.com.
9NEW REVIEW
SAR Vol. 19, No. 7

Luth-AR Introduces
Their New MBA-1 Modular
Buttstock Assembly
Luth-AR has just introduced their new
MBA-1 Modular Buttstock Assembly. The new
buttstock is fully adjustable for cheek rest
height and length of pull adding up to one inch
of cheek rest height and 1 and 1/16th inch
length of pull. The cheek can also be adjusted
forward or rearward. The MBA-1 is approximately
half the weight of competitor’s adjustable
stocks weighing in at just 1.26 pounds.
The new stock is easy to replace and quick to
install fitting all .223 and most .308 AR style
stocks. Made from super strong glass-filled
nylon, the stock is almost indestructible. All
adjustments are made by loosening metal
thumbscrews with no parts to lose or tools
needed. The stock also has a non-slip rubber
buttpad for positive shoulder positioning.
The stock features sling swivel sockets and
Grovetec heavy duty push button sling swivels
are available as an option. The stock is
perfect for your SASS rifle. For more information
on the web go to www.luth-ar.com.
Breakthrough
IntroducesNew
Revolutionary
Cleaning Products
SAR Vol. 19, No. 7 SEPT. 2015
10
Breakthrough Clean is proud to announce
its two new products: Battle Born Oil and
Battle Born Grease. Along with its revolutionary,
made in the USA Breakthrough Military-Grade
Solvent, Breakthrough Clean is
ushering in a new era of technology, where
cleaning your firearm is now faster and safer
than ever. Breakthrough’s state-of-the-art
distillation process provides superior firearm
cleaning products that are environmentally
friendly, non-toxic and virtually odorless. Currently
Breakthrough is approved, qualified,
and utilized daily by the largest user of firearm
cleaning technology in the USA – The U.S.
Department of Defense. Now, it’s available
to you. Breakthrough Military-Grade Solvent
is a non-water based distilled petroleum solvent
that through their proprietary distillation
process has had all carcinogens and hazardous
waste materials virtually wiped out of the
formula. Breakthrough Military-Grade Solvent
has no odor, is non-staining, removes all fouling,
while completely evaporating, leaving
absolutely no residue behind. It’s truly pH

American Built Arms Introduces
Mission Critical Kit
American Built Arms Company (A*B Arms), a veteran-owned, Type
07 U.S. manufacturer of firearms and firearms parts and accessories to
the civilian, law enforcement and defense industry, has launched the A*B
Arms Mission Critical Kit (MCK). The A*B Arms Mission Critical Kit is a
collection of critical replacement parts for you and your AR-15/M4 that
are there to serve you in your time of need. The MCK is manufactured
for military and law enforcement, as well as civilian firearms enthusiasts.
The MCK will make sure you have what you need, when you need it. The
Mission Critical Kit includes the following items:
1) One A*B Arms Complete Nickel Boron Coated Bolt Assembly
2) One A*B Arms Firing Pin
3) One Firing Pin Retaining Pin
4) One A*B Arms Extractor
5) One Extractor Axle
6) Six Gas Rings
7) One Bolt Assembly Instruction Card
8) Two UV Resistant Black Gear Bands
9) One A*B Arms Latex Barrel Cover
10) One 5.56 Broken Shell Extractor
11) Two vials of 3ml Breakthrough Battle Born High-Purity Oil
12) Two Latex-Free Adhesive Bandages and Alcohol Prep Pad – Great for
those annoying cuts when you’re out in the thick of it.
13) One Tactical Black, Ballistic Nylon Case with Multiple Gear Pockets:
This 5x3.5x1-inch compact zippered pouch is an EDC style kit that’s small
enough to fit into your pocket or gun bag.
For more information or to order go to www.abarms.com.
neutral, which means it’s safe on your firearm’s wood,
plastics, polymers, Cerakote and/or hydro-printing.
Unlike traditional firearm cleaning solvents, Breakthrough
Military-Grade Solvent has a flashpoint of
150° F and is therefore considered non-flammable.
Breakthrough Military-Grade Solvent cleans efficiently,
dramatically reducing the duration of cleaning while
using less product. Battle Born Oil is a blend of the
finest synthetic oils available and treated with the
most effective extreme pressure, corrosion inhibitors,
anti-oxidant, anti-foam, and anti-wear additives. This
unique combination provides maximum firearm lubrication
and protection in extreme environmental conditions
and is a bio-degradable multi-service lubricant
and protectant for extended service under high and
low temperatures conditions (from -90°F to 417°F).
Battle Born Grease represents some of the most advanced
lubricant technology. It is a versatile, premium
quality, synthetic grease fortified with Sub-Micron size
PTFE blended completely with pure synthetic base
oils, additives, and shear stable thickeners to provide
maximum firearm protection in extremely high and low
temperatures (from -75°F to 510°F). Learn more at:
www.breakthroughclean.com.
NEW REVIEW
11
SAR Vol. 19, No. 7

SAR Vol. 19, No. 7 SEPT. 2015
12

13
SAR Vol. 19, No. 7
NEW REVIEW

y Teresa G. Ficaretta, Esq.
& Johanna Reeves, Esq.
Legal News from the Nation’s Capital
SAR Vol. 19, No. 7 SEPT. 2015
14
Curio or Relic Firearms vs. Collector’s
Items: What’s the Difference?
Classifications of firearms as curios
or relics and/or collector’s items have legal
significance that affects importation,
transfer, interstate movement, and the
ability of firearms enthusiasts to acquire
such firearms. This article will explain
the two terms, the significance of classifications
by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco,
Firearms and Explosives (ATF),
and will provide tips on submitting requests
for classification to ATF.
I. Curio or Relic Firearms
A. What is a Curio or Relic?
The term “curio or relic” is not defined
in the Gun Control Act (GCA), 18
U.S.C. Chapter 44. It is referenced in
several provisions of the GCA, including
the definition of “collector” in 18
U.S.C. § 921(a)(13), and in the import
provisions of the GCA in 18 U.S.C. §
925(d) and (e).
ATF regulations implementing the
GCA in 27 C.F.R. Part 478 define the
term “curios or relics.” The regulatory
definition in 27 C.F.R. § 478.11 provides
as follows:
Curios or relics. Firearms which are
of special interest to collectors by reason
of some quality other than is associated
with firearms intended for sporting
use or as offensive or defensive weapons.
To be recognized as curios or relics,
firearms must fall within one of the
following categories:
(a) Firearms which were manufactured
at least 50 years prior to
the current date, but not including
replicas thereof;
(b) Firearms which are certified
by the curator of a municipal, State,
or Federal museum which exhibits
firearms to be curios or relics of
museum interest; and
(c) Any other firearms which derive a
substantial part of their monetary value
from the fact that they are novel, rare,
bizarre, or because of their association
with some historical figure, period, or
event. Proof of qualification of a particular
firearm under this category may
be established by evidence of present
value and evidence that like firearms
are not available except as collector’s
items, or that the value of like firearms
in ordinary commercial channels is
substantially less.
An appropriations restriction has
been included in ATF’s annual appropriations
since 1994 prohibiting the agency
from amending the above regulatory
definition. The restriction also prohibits
the removal of any firearm from the
Firearms Curios or Relics List if the firearm
was on the list on January 1, 1994.
Until this restriction is lifted, ATF cannot
change the regulatory definition of
“curio or relic.”
ATF publishes a list of firearms classified
as “curios or relics” on its website,
www.atf.gov. The current list, ATF Publication
5300.1, was revised in December
2007. ATF has published updates to the
list through June 2010.
ATF regulations in 27 C.F.R. § 478.26
set forth the method for obtaining a determination
whether a particular firearms
is a curio or relic. The regulation
requires submission of a written request,
in duplicate, for a ruling to the Director.
ATF has delegated C&R determinations
to the Firearms and Ammunition
Technology Division, and the authors

ecommend submitting the request to the
division Chief. The regulations require
requests for classification be executed
under penalties of perjury and contain
a complete and accurate description of
the firearm and photographs, diagrams,
or drawings as may be necessary to assist
with the determination. Finally, the
regulations provide that a sample of the
firearm may be required for examination
and evaluation.
Based on the regulatory definition of
“curios or relics,” there are three ways
a firearm may be classified as C&R.
The first is that it be at least 50 years
old. ATF has stated that firearms automatically
attain C&R status when they
are 50 years old, and it is not necessary
for such firearms to be listed in the
Firearms Curios or Relics List to be so
classified. Assuming no problems in
verifying the age of a particular firearm,
this is the easiest way for a firearm to
attain C&R status.
The second way for firearms to be
classified as C&R is for a curator of a
government-owned museum to certify
that the firearms are of “museum
interest.” A number of firearms classified
as C&R made their way onto the
list through the museum curator certification
process. This requires that an
applicant send a letter to the Chief,
Firearms and Ammunition Technology
Division, requesting classification of the
particular firearm as a curio or relic. The
application must include a letter from a
curator of a Federal, State, or municipal
museum certifying that the firearms are
of museum interest.
Applicants who seek classification
under the museum curator certification
process should be forewarned that
ATF requires a great deal of specificity
in the certification. The agency is likely
to require a list of all serial numbers
for firearms sought to be classified as
C&R; specific information as to why the
firearms are of museum interest (e.g.,
associated with particular military conflicts,
military operations, or other historical
events), and evidence supporting
the museum curator’s conclusions. The
applicant may also be asked to provide
evidence that the curator is associated
with a government-owned museum, as
opposed to a private museum.
The third way for firearms to be classified
as C&R is to request ATF make
a determination under paragraph (c)
of the regulatory definition. Such a request
should be submitted in writing to
the Chief, Firearms and Ammunition
Technology Division and address all the
requirements of the regulations, including
(1) monetary value; (2) rarity and/or
novelty; and (3) association with a specific
historical figure, period, or event.
The information provided should be
specific and detailed. ATF may request
a sample of the firearm sought for C&R
classification for its examination.
ATF takes the position that curio
or relic firearms must be in their original
condition to be classified as a C&R
firearm. However, information on ATF’s
website indicates that minor changes to
firearms, such as the addition of scope
mounts, non-original sights, or sling
swivels would not affect a firearm’s classification
as C&R. ATF has also determined
that replacing particular firearms
parts with new parts manufactured in
the original design would also be acceptable.
An example of an acceptable
repair would be replacing a cracked M1
Garand stock with a new wooden stock
of the same design, while ATF advises
that replacing it with a plastic stock
would change the rifle’s classification as
C&R. In addition, although frames and
receivers are included in the definition
of “firearm,” ATF takes the position that
frames and receivers cannot be classified
as C&R firearms.
LEGALLY ARMED
15
SAR Vol. 19, No. 7

B. What Is the Significance of a Curio
or Relic Classification?
1. Licensed Collectors
The definition of “collector” in 18
U.S.C. § 921(a)(13), combined with other
provisions of the GCA, makes it clear
that licensed collectors may lawfully
acquire firearms classified as curios or
relics in interstate commerce. Persons
who do not hold a collector’s license
are generally prohibited from obtaining
firearms (including curios or relics) in
interstate commerce from any person
other than a Federal firearms licensee.
Licensed collectors may obtain curio
or relic firearms from other licensees
without completing an ATF Form 4473,
and the transferring licensee is not required
to comply with the background
check provisions of the Brady Law, 18
U.S.C. § 922(t). For persons interested
in firearms of historical significance, obtaining
a collector’s license is of tremendous
benefit. It allows the license holder
to obtain firearms from other licensed
collectors and other licensees without
going through a licensee in their state
of residence.
It should be noted, however, that a
collector’s license conveys no benefits
as to firearms that are not C&R. As to
non-C&R firearms, a licensed collector
is like any other unlicensed individual
and must generally go through a Federal
firearms licensee in his or her state of
residence to lawfully obtain firearms.
Licensed collectors are also cautioned
that a collector’s license does not
authorize the holder to engage in a firearms
business, even if that business is
limited to curio or relic firearms. Any person
who is devoting time, attention, and
labor to engaging in business in curio or
relic firearms with the principal objective
of livelihood and profit must obtain a
dealer’s license to lawfully do so. ATF’s
Firearms Curios or Relics List, ATF Publication
5300.1, page 2, provides the following
guidance on this topic:
For example, if a collector acquires
Curios or Relics for the purpose of sale
rather than to enhance a collection, the
collector would have to be licensed as a
dealer in firearms under the GCA. The
sole intent and purpose of the collector’s
license is to enable a firearms
collector to obtain curio or relic firearms
from outside his or her State of
residence. (Emphasis in original).
The determining factor for whether
a dealer’s license is needed is whether
the person is acquiring curio or relic
firearms for a personal collection or
for resale. Collectors may swap or sell
firearms from their collection and do so
at a profit. However, the motive must
always be to enhance a personal collection,
rather than to make money selling
firearms. Collectors who are unsure
whether their activities may be lawfully
conducted with a collector’s license
should discuss with qualified counsel
whether it would be advisable to obtain
a dealer’s license.
2. Importation of C&R Firearms
Import provisions of the GCA generally
prohibit the importation of surplus
military firearms, firearms subject to the
National Firearms Act, and those that
are “nonsporting.” 18 U.S.C. § 925(d)
(3). However, a provision of the GCA
added to the statute in 1984 provides as
follows (18 U.S.C. § 925(e)):
Notwithstanding any other provision
of this title, the Attorney General shall
authorize the importation of, by any licensed
importer, the following:
(1) All rifles and shotguns listed as
curios or relics by the Attorney General
pursuant to section 921(a)(13), and
(2) All handguns, listed as curios or
relics by the Attorney General pursuant
to section 921(a)(13), provided that such
handguns are generally recognized as
particularly suitable for or readily adaptable
to sporting purposes.
Section 925(e) allows surplus military
firearms to be imported by a licensed
importer if they are classified as
C&R. Handguns must also be “sporting”
by meeting ATF’s Factoring Criteria as
set forth on ATF Form 4590. This provision
of the GCA is very significant, as
it allows otherwise non-importable surplus
military firearms to be imported if
they are 50 years old or are classified
as C&R under one of the other regulatory
definitions. Surplus military rifles,
shotguns, and handguns have been imported
by licensed importers under this
provision of the statute.
II. Collector’s Items
A. What is a Collector’s Item?
The National Firearms Act (NFA),
26 U.S.C. Chapter 53, imposes registration,
transfer, tax, and other requirements
on certain specified “firearms.”
The term “firearm” is defined to include
machine guns, short barrel shotguns,
short barrel rifles, silencers, destructive
devices, and other concealable
weapons. 26 U.S.C. § 5845(a). This
provision of the NFA also provides that
the term “firearm” shall not include any
device (other than a machine gun or
destructive device) which, although designed
as a weapon, ATF finds by reason
of the date of its manufacture, value,
design, and other characteristics is
primarily a collector’s item and not likely
to be used as a weapon.
Implementing regulations in 27
C.F.R. § 479.25 set forth the process for
obtaining a classification of a particular
firearm as a collector’s item. The regulation
provides that requests for such
classification should be submitted in
writing in triplicate, to the Director. As
with curio or relic classifications, the
authority to make collector’s item classifications
has been delegated to the
Chief, Firearms and Ammunition Technology
Division. Accordingly, requests
for such classification should be sent
to this Division. The regulations require
that classification requests be executed
under penalties of perjury and contain
a complete and accurate description of
the device, the name and address of the
manufacturer or importer, the purpose
of and use for which it is intended, and
photographs, diagrams, or drawings of
the device. ATF may request a sample
of the device for examination.
It should be noted that the statute
specifically excludes machine guns
and destructive devices from the removal
authorization. Removal requests
submitted for these two categories
of NFA firearms will be returned by
ATF without action.
The most important information that
must be included in a request for classification
as a collector’s item is information
on the date of manufacture,
value, design, and other characteristics
indicating that the firearm is primarily
a collector’s item and not likely to be
used as a weapon. This information
must be very specific, particularly the
information about value. Information
indicating the firearm is not likely to be
used as a weapon must also be specific
and compelling.
B. Significance of Classification as a
Collector’s Item.
Firearms removed from the NFA as a
collector’s item are no longer subject to
any provisions of the NFA. This means
such firearms are not required to be registered,
no advance approval is required
for the transfer of the firearms, and none
of the other provisions of the NFA apply.
Significantly, a firearm removed from the
NFA as a collector’s item will not be subject
to the stringent import provisions of
the NFA. Import provisions of the NFA in
26 U.S.C. § 5844 generally limit importation
of NFA firearms to those brought in
SAR Vol. 19, No. 7 16 SEPT. 2015

OUR WORLD
by Scott Novzen and Robert Segel
“Jennifer has been shooting my Thompson
ever since she was a little girl . She always
wins a lot of prizes at these fairs . ”
for the official use of government agencies.
Classification as a collector’s item
removes this obstacle, and if the firearm
is sporting or fits within the other import
criteria of the GCA, the firearm may be
lawfully imported into the United States.
Importation is often one of the primary
reasons removal requests are filed
under the NFA.
Because the removal of a firearm
from the NFA results in significantly less
Federal regulation, ATF carefully and
thoroughly considers removal applications.
Only specific and compelling information
about a particular firearm is likely
to result in granting a removal request.
There are also certain types of firearms
ATF generally denies for removal.
These include pistol grip shotgun-type
weapons, due to their concealability
and configuration similar to sawed-off
shotguns, which are commonly used in
crime. ATF has also consistently denied
applications to remove certain firearms
classified as an “any other weapon” because
of the narrow category of weapons
described in the statutory language.
ATF denies such requests on the basis
that removal would render the statutory
language meaningless.
Even though a firearm is removed
as a collector’s item, it will likely still
be a “firearm” subject to all provisions
of the GCA. This is true even if the
weapon is classified as a “curio or relic”
firearm under the GCA. Marking
requirements, interstate movement, record
keeping requirements applicable
to Federal firearms licensees, and all
other requirements of the GCA would
continue to apply.
III. Conclusion
Classifications of firearms as curios
or relics and/or collector’s items result
in less Federal regulation and may allow
otherwise non-importable firearms
to lawfully enter the United States. Persons
who submit curio or relic or collector’s
item classification requests should
ensure their submissions are accurate,
specific, and complete to avoid delays
in obtaining a response from ATF.
(The information in this article is
for informational purposes only and is
not intended to be construed or used
as legal advice.)
About the authors –
Johanna Reeves is the founding partner
of the law firm Reeves & Dola, LLP in
Washington, DC (www.reevesdola.com).
For more than ten years she has dedicated
her practice to advising and representing
U.S. companies on compliance
matters arising under the federal firearms
laws and U.S. export controls.
Teresa Ficaretta is one of the country’s
foremost experts on ATF regulations
under the Gun Control Act, the National
Firearms Act, the Arms Export Control Act
and Federal explosives laws. Before joining
Reeves & Dola in 2013, Teresa served
as legal counsel to ATF for 26 years,
followed by two years as Deputy Assistant
Director in Enforcement Programs
and Services. They can be reached
at (202) 683-4200.
LEGALLY ARMED
17
SAR Vol. 19, No. 7

Cobalt Kinetics
“THE CURE FOR THE BLACK RIFLE”
BY DAVID LAKE
Here is the unlikely success story about a new small arms
manufacturer from the desert of Southern Utah. Cobalt Kinetics
came from nothing; that is, the founder and partners involved in
the inception of the company knew little to nothing about guns
or how to make them, or how to sell them. All they really had
was vision and motivation; usually enough to ensure success in
anything. Cobalt began unencumbered by the financial burden
that makes growing a new business difficult; the infrastructure
to make this business venture possible came about at the snap
of a finger. Free from the mundane struggles and growing pains
of starting a new business, the men and women of Cobalt Kinetics
were able to move forward at the speed of thought in pursuit
of their endeavor. The company’s success was not without cost
however. There was much hard work involved, to be sure. The
people of Cobalt Kinetics will regale you with stories of 20 hour
workdays and 7 day workweeks to get the thing started. Their
greatest challenge, and highest achievement, and ultimately
the key to their success was the cohesive working relationship
among the staff. The machine operators, the executives, and
everyone in between shared a common goal. Cobalt’s goal and
vision was not to simply package another AR-15 but to create
a better AR-15. Sure, the current staple of the Cobalt brand is
indeed an AR-15 at its heart. But Small Arms Review was made
to understand (and shown, unofficially) that Cobalt’s interpretation
of the AR-15 is just a first step. Cobalt Kinetics is scheming
to change the industry and they intend to make some waves.
SAR Vol. 19, No. 7 18 SEPT. 2015

The BAMF SBR and EDGE in the
very sought-after mirror polish. Contact
Cobalt for details.
WWW.SMALLARMSREVIEW.COM 19 SAR Vol. 19, No. 7

At first look, Cobalt’s flagship rifle,
the BAMF (Billet Aluminum Modern Firearm)
comes across as an abstract modern
art masterpiece. It’s as if Alexander
Calder and his contemporaries conspired
to craft a rifle. Maybe the BAMF
is where gothic architecture meets science
fiction space film. This rifle’s shape
is more art than engineering. During
conception and design, the artist behind
the gun was left to draIw and design as
he wished (Cobalt really does employ
an artist who in fact knows precious little
about guns). Cobalt’s engineering team
just had to fine tune the artwork until a
gun could fit inside. Whatever the cause
or effect of its marked appearance,
believe that the BAMF is all business.
Small Arms Review became aware of
Cobalt’s plans in October of 2014. Cobalt
expressed some very optimistic
plans and goals for the future and direction
of the company. They had nothing
but a lower receiver and some drawings
and, in no more than 10 weeks, Cobalt
Kinetics managed to create a full line of
rifles and unique features and amazing
possibilities. SHOT Show 2015 was the
official unveiling of Cobalt and its BAMF.
During its growth, the team at Cobalt
never lost sight of the plan to produce
a supreme quality AR-15. The internals
and all working components are either
sourced from top-shelf industry firms
or created in-house at Cobalt Kinetics.
The BAMF makes neither compromise
nor concession for economy’s sake. No
expense is spared, as long as that expense
directly enhances the rifle’s performance
or aesthetic. There are many
practical rifles available to the consumer.
There are many accurate rifles available
to the competitor. There are many
hard-working rifles available to the
professional. There are beautiful rifles
available to the collector. The BAMF is
all of these; and available to everyone.
The BAMF straddles the thin line that
separates form from function. Nay, it
erases that line and expresses plainly
that form and function can coexist. The
trend in small arms development today
demands modularity and durability and
the tastes of upcoming consumers demand
style and exclusivity. Anyone with
a background in mechanics or engineering
will scoff at the allusion that you can
have it all. For example, a Maserati is
a work of art – it’s exquisitely sculpted
by old-world craftsmen, but it can never
run as long or be as reliable as a
Toyota, which is built with gross robotic
precision. And be sure that Toyota will
never make anything as beautiful as the
Maserati. So, maybe it’s true, in cars at
least- you cannot have it all. But if you’re
seeking an AR-15 rifle that is visually
pleasing, and functionally superior, you
are now in luck. As with all things art, everyone
has their taste. If the BAMF does
not please your eye, sorry, you should
move on. There are plenty of boring, ordinary
AR clones on the market.
When looking over the Cobalt BAMF,
it’s easy to miss the mechanical genius
inside and the beauty is in the details.
The BAMF has a totally new and unique
operating feature coined the “DD” (double
“d”) and it is an ambidextrous forward
assist and simultaneous bolt release
integrated and incorporated into
the upper receiver. The conventional
forward assist is mirrored on both sides
of the upper. The forward assist buttons
have been linked through a secret
mechanism in the upper receiver, so
each button actuates the other. And this
symmetrical forward assist has been
linked to the bolt catch in the lower receiver.
There are no major changes to
the basic function of the AR-15. The
system does not require a special bolt
group or any modification to any component.
It’s a big step forward, without
the usual step back. The Double-D offers
the user fast (and safe) actuation of
the bolt catch after the bolt has locked to
the rear on an empty magazine. Once a
full mag has been seated into the rifle,
SAR Vol. 19, No. 7 20 SEPT. 2015

the thumb of the strong hand just bumps
one of the forward assist buttons to
send the bolt home. The result is equal
to the extended levers that snake down
through the trigger guard with claims to
speed up the operation of a rifle. But
these devices come with their own kinds
of potential problems. Some shooters
have been observed to discharge a rifle
while attempting to actuate the control
lever in the trigger guard. It is the belief,
in fact, of every gun-handling professional
that the finger should only ever
enter the trigger guard with immediate
intent to fire the gun. The placement of
other optional control surfaces proximal
to the bang switch is just a bad idea. The
Double-D mechanism serves the same
purpose, without exposing the shooter
to the possibility of an accident. Also, the
forward assist is a familiar part on the
AR-15 and a standard part of the AR’s
manual of arms, so there’s no need to
re-learn or familiarize one’s self with the
placement of a new control surface to
operate the rifle.
Cobalt Kinetics would not rest on
their laurels when it comes to proving
the rifle. Good looks will only get you
so far today so they employed a team
of men whose daily job requirement was
to wear out and destroy the BAMF. For
weeks this team loaded magazines and
emptied those magazines as efficiently
as possible; by pulling the trigger on
a rifle. Cobalt burned off over 80,000
rounds of 5.56 NATO through 4 rifles
in the name of learning, by way of abusive
testing. Two of these rifles have
cycled over 30,000 rounds each. Failures
happened, sure, but not like one
would expect. A gas tube burst as it approached
a temperature so high all tensile
strength had been lost. One barrel
cooked off its ceramic coating. Another
barrel changed color turning from bright
stainless to purple and brown. Extractor
and ejector springs flattened out after
taking a set and losing tension from extreme
heat exposure. One buffer’s urethane
bumper shattered from fatigue.
Smoke escaped from all the cracks and
gaps as oil and lock-tite were boiled off.
The pair of 30,000 round rifles, however,
kept the same bolt groups and trigger
mechanisms throughout testing. The
structural members; the receivers, forearms,
stocks and buffer tubes all lasted
the duration with no demonstrable wear,
failure or other deficiency (the barrels
lasted through the entire test, but with
little remaining accuracy potential). This
month long exercise showed a wanton
indifference to the ammunition shortage
we’re experiencing today. But what was
learned from it is the important part.
Cobalt
WWW.SMALLARMSREVIEW.COM 21 SAR Vol. 19, No. 7

Cobalt
Cobalt can authoritatively say what
works and what doesn’t. You can wholeheartedly
believe that the Cobalt BAMF
is built to perform based on that.
The lessons learned in the testing
phase have been applied to the production
rifle. Cobalt’s rifles are held to a
standard of perfection. The receiver’s internal
tolerances and surface finish are
tightly controlled to a far greater degree
than Mil-Spec demands. The receivers
are tracked and recorded through every
step of the manufacturing process;
from the delivery of the bar stock to the
final assembly of a complete rifle. The
receivers are inspected for tolerance,
function and appearance at multiple
stages throughout the process. Upper to
lower fit are held at between zero and
two thousandths of an inch. The magazine
wells are cut by the slowest, but
most precise means – wire EDM. The
final assembly process is taken on with
the solemnity of a religious rite. One
technician is tasked with hand selecting
components for a rifle, based on individual
fit. The receiver sets are assembled
and a finger is passed over the mating
edges to ensure perfect fit. The buffer
tubes and receiver extensions are
honed and polished inside. The buffer
springs are polished as well. Safety selector
barrels and takedown and pivot
pins are sourced from the best firms in
the industry, but are still checked with a
micrometer before assembly to ensure it
fits ideally in the prescribed hole, which
has also been checked with a precision
pin gauge just before the moment of
assembly. Every screw is torqued to a
prescribed load. One technician carries
one rifle through the process from parts
selection to test fire and ultimately packaging
for shipment. His name and contact
information accompany the rifle to
the end user. He and he alone has built
your rifle. It’s a matter of personal pride
and absolute quality assurance.
The componentry selected for the
BAMF rifles is all top shelf- again, from
the lessons learned in destructive testing.
The bolt groups are the best avail-
SAR Vol. 19, No. 7 22 SEPT. 2015

Top Left, Top Right, Left: The EDGE in slate gray.
Top Center: The DD system from the shooter’s perspective.
WWW.SMALLARMSREVIEW.COM 23 SAR Vol. 19, No. 7

Cobalt
able; made by Toolcraft and are then
treated with a high performance Nickel
Boron Coating. This coating reduces the
need for regular lubrication in the upper
receiver. These enhanced bolt groups
also add a great deal of functionality to
the gun. The coating is so smooth that
fouling and particulate contaminants
find it difficult to adhere to the bolt group,
where they might retard function. When
the bolt group looks dirty and needs a
cleaning, a wipe down with rag and light
oil does the trick. The trigger supplied
with the BAMF is from KE Arms. A unitized
drop-in assembly, it is adjustable
for pull weight and let-off by one screw.
KE Arms’ triggers feature a titanium nitride
PVD surface treatment on all the
working bits. Titanium nitride is totally
corrosion resistant and very hard, which
results in a smooth trigger feel. The barrels
are manufactured by a seasoned
expert in barrel making to the standards
and specifics established by Cobalt engineers.
The safety selector and magazine
latch and changing handle are all
premium ambidextrous components. All
BAMF models come standard with an
adjustable gas block that features audible
clicks in the adjustment valve.
Cobalt offers these rifles in two trims;
the basic BAMF and the BAMF EDGE.
The visible difference is the butt-stock
assembly. The EDGE utilizes Cobalt’s
proprietary billet stock. It’s a fixed rifle
length stock that completes the aesthetic
appeal of the rifle. It’s also a very comfortable
and practical place to rest your
cheek while shooting your BAMF. Yes,
it’s heavy, but the little extra weight in
the rear end of the rifle does wonders for
balance and handling. The basic BAMF
features a Hogue collapsible over-molded
unit, attached to a Mil-Spec receiver
extension tube. The two rifles utilize
different barrels. The BAMF includes a
14.5-inch service weight, chrome-lined
CM steel barrel permanently affixed to
Cobalt’s own flash hider. The EDGE
model gives buyers an option for a 16-
inch chrome lined or 18-inch matchgrade
stainless steel barrel. All barrels
are chambered in .223 Wylde. All BAMF
rifles feature the signature forearm, notable
by the spikes at the business end.
These are indeed Picatinny bases at
12 and 6 o’clock to attach iron sights
or other accessories. The forearm is
also part of the statement Cobalt wishes
to make about the current shape of
the AR-15 that everything need not be
low profile and boring to be of practical
use. The forearm is also M-LOK compatible
for the addition of lights, grips,
bipods or additional optical equipment.
Another signature feature of the BAMF
forearm is the hump at the receiver end
that makes room for the gas tube. Absent
is the continuous “tunnel” along
the inside dorsal surface of the forearm.
The unique arrangement allows for the
forearm to clear the gas tube where required,
and at the same time, keep the
forearm round, and of a smaller diameter
than most free-float tubes on the
market. The last standard option is the
color of the rifle. The BAMF and EDGE
can be ordered in 3 finishes; OD green,
slate gray, and brazed (a tan/straw).
The BAMF and EDGE rifles are in
production and shipping and are available
at a few discerning gun dealers
around the country who signed up early.
These rifles may be on the backorder list
from time to time, but be assured that
Cobalt has no intention of keeping their
wares exclusive. The company is constantly
expanding and has just moved
production into a larger facility, and installed
more 5 axis CNC machines and
another wire EDM to keep up with production
demand. Upcoming additions to
the BAMF lineup includes a PRO model;
a rifle that has been designed taking input
and direction from a few of America’s
top multi-gun competitors. It has all the
SAR Vol. 19, No. 7 24 SEPT. 2015

ideal features and capabilities required
for top performance on the range. The
stock and forearm have been optimized
and streamlined and the trigger has
been upgraded to a fully adjustable unit.
The barrel is lighter and more accurate
and longer wearing. The bolt group is
from Cryptic and features a CVD coating
that is arguably the best AR bolt group
ever made. The BAMF PRO is as good
as a rifle can get.
“Kinetic” in the company name at
first seemed out of place as this refers
to something in motion. A rifle is a solid-state
machine for the most part; there
is only a reciprocating bolt and occasionally
a projectile headed downrange.
And its motion is repetitive and cyclic.
After touring Cobalt’s Utah facility, and
fielding the rifles and spending time with
this visionary group, we became aware
that “Kinetic” refers to the company and
the ideas and the people who make it
run. It’s moving forward - sometimes
too fast. As mentioned before, SAR was
made aware of some next generation
concept rifles and projects. Some of
these concepts are waiting for manufacturing
capability to evolve enough to
make them possible. That is boldness at
its best; to outrun one’s own abilities. It
has been said by wise men that “fortune
favors the bold.” Many a tactical shoulder
patch, ball cap or challenge coin
touts this theme, as a reminder to us. It
would seem that this great concept has
been lost on too many gun companies,
who continue to make rubber stamp
“M-forgeries” and are content to remain
static. Cobalt Kinetics is going to cure
the black rifle.
Cobalt Kinetics
1478 South 270 East, Suite #1
Saint George, UT 84790
(435) 656-0599
www.cobaltkinetics.com
www.facebook.com/cobaltkinetics27
WWW.SMALLARMSREVIEW.COM 25 SAR Vol. 19, No. 7

THE RECOVER TACTICAL
CC3
GRIP SYSTEM
A REVOLUTIONARY UPGRADE
FOR AN OLD WARHORSE
by JM Ramos
Over the years since its initial adoption
as the official U.S. military sidearm
in 1911, the legendary Colt .45 automatic
has seen countless upgrading that
includes mechanical redesigns such as
double action conversions, high capacity
magazine enhancement, cosmetic
improvements and the introduction of
many recoil reduction devices that were
made popular by the action shooting
circuits of the 80s and the 90s. In the
aesthetic department, it was the custom
grip that never ran out of style.
The market is continually flooded with
stylish 1911 pistol grips that are made
from so many different materials; from
aluminium, titanium, ivory, stag, exotic
woods and the popular G-10 fiberglass
composite just to name a few. This line
of custom grips comes in different patterns
and checkering cuts to maximize
purchase and overall appeal. Despite all
the differences in materials, color and
styling, they all share the same commonality
– plain and slab sided. That
old tradition in 1911 grip innovation is
about to change with the introduction of
the revolutionary Recover Tactical CC3
grip system. The CC3 is truly a superb
21st century upgrade for the veteran
service handgun. The unique design
and styling of the CC3 can be attributed
to the exceptional talent of Tamir Porat,
a world renowned Israeli weapon engineer,
also responsible for the creation of
the Tavor combat rifle recently adopted
Left: The two piece Recover Tactical CC3
grip system will fit virtually any brand of
1911 type pistol almost seamlessly except
the Taurus PT-1911 and Caspian Arms
first generation frame kit of 1980 manufacture
(center). This is due to dimensional
difference in the radius of the grip’s fore
strap having a corner and not a full contour
like a Colt frame.
SAR Vol. 19, No. 7 26 SEPT. 2015

Above: Comparison between Para-Ordnance
Todd Jarrett custom railed .45 ACP hi-capacity
1911 (left) and custom Colt with Para 16-40
Limited top end in .40 caliber (right) with black
Recover Tactical CC3 grip. Note the lower position
of the rail on the CC3 compared to the Para’s
built-in receiver rail. The lower rail section
of the CC3 grip prevents slide installation when
using the Fab Defence USM scope mount.
by the Israeli Defence Forces. With his
impressive firearm design background,
it’s not surprising that Mr. Porat was able
to accomplish a remarkable feat when
creating his CC3 grip system. It has truly
benefited the 1911 aficionado on a tight
budget by instantly transforming this
century old warhorse to an ultra-modern
pistol equalizer capable of accepting
tactical wares such as weapon light,
laser and even vertical grip (where allowed
by law) for maximum control with
a large pistol caliber.
The CC3 grip system consists of two
halves that virtually cover the receiver
(frame) of the pistol except the back
side where the main spring housing and
grip safety is located. It is made of highgrade
polymer – the same material used
on the Tavor rifle. The CC3 is tailored to
be a universal fit to a standard 1911 type
WWW.SMALLARMSREVIEW.COM 27 SAR Vol. 19, No. 7

the versatility of a railed 1911 pistol at
a fraction of the price all without the
added weight and bulk.
Installation of the CC3 to the pistol
is quite straightforward and takes
about three minutes to complete. Simply
remove the original grip of the gun
and substitute the Recover. The only
added work is the installation of the two
small screws (comes with the kit with
a hardware) that tightens the front end
of the part. The halves are surprisingly
snug when mated to the frame with no
looseness whatsoever once all screws
are tightened. The cut out for the magazine
catch is very well thought out providing
easy access, while the opposite
side has an identical profile that gives
the trigger finger excellent clearance
for trigger reach and pull. In addition,
the CC3 thumb safety clearance is also
commendable focusing primarily on the
shooter’s comfort and ergonomics. The
profile on this area is also the same on
both sides, truly ambidextrous and very
nicely done. The CC3 fully encloses the
pistols. While most 1911 pistols produced
by various gun manufacturers are
designed to Colt specifications, there
are some makes that differ in certain
areas – primarily in the grip fore-strap
contour for raised checkering purposes
and the dust cover being beefed up a bit
for strength and added weight as an aid
to muzzle flip reduction without the aid
of a muzzle device. To check out the fit
of the CC3 with various 1911s, the grip
was installed to the Series-70 Colt; then
to the Caspian Arms, utilizing an early
manufacture frame kit. The fit to the
Colt Series 70 frame is near seamless
with just a tiny line appearing below the
trigger guard. On the Series-80 gun, the
CC3 grip fit perfectly and seamlessly.
The Caspian frame kit on the other hand
had a very prominent .042 inch wide gap
at the front of the grip. This could be the
result of the added material from the
raised checkering as well as the overall
contour and dimension of the front
strap radius. Another production brand
1911 pistol that has the same issue in
this area is the Taurus PT 1911. Both
1911 frames have a noticeable square
edge at the rim of the front strap (not a
full radius like Colt) precluding a seamless
fit. The large ribbings on all sides
of the CC3 afford excellent purchase
and the portion of the grip that covers
the front strap improves the ergonomics.
The CC3 appears to have better feel
and ergonomics than any 1911 grip this
author has tried before (wood or plastic).
The styling is great, the material is
light and strong but most of all, it offers
Above Left: The CC3 grip drastically improve both the aesthetics and ergonomics
of the single stack 1911 in any variations including a compensated model (left) or an
Officer’s ACP models with a mini-comp for carry. The added rail system is definitely
a welcome addition in modernizing the old warhorse allowing the installation of tactical
gadgetries such as light, laser, SIG Sauer bridge mount for optics as well as a
forward grip for licenced individuals.
Above: Two Colt pistols without accessories installed showing the detail of the CC3
rail and the two small hex screws that secures the front end of the part. Fit of the
CC3 grip to both pistols is excellent.
SAR Vol. 19, No. 7 28 SEPT. 2015

CC3 GRIP SYSTEM
A TLR-1 weapon light is installed on the compensated pistol (right) while the gun on the left has the SIG mini-laser. Fab Defence
folding grips are seen beside the guns as alternate accessories. These vintage and classic custom guns never looked
this good with CC3 grip system.
dust shield of the frame and extend just
a bit to increase the length of the rail and
was perfect for the TLR weapon light,
SIG-Arms mini-laser and Fab Defence
folding front grip (made for a Glock pistol)
for PDW conversion. Naturally, it is
even more exciting to dress up a vintage
1911 carbine utilizing a detachable
shoulder stock to a more sophisticated
modernized PDW conversion complete
with a folding front grip. In Canada this
setup is perfectly legal for restricted
firearms license holders. In the USA,
stocked handguns or a handgun with a
forward grip falls under a different class
of weaponry and is subject to NFA rules
and regulations. Having a forward grip
on a railed stocked handgun makes a
lot of difference in weapon control and
comfort. It provided the handling characteristic
of shooting a short barrelled rifle.
The stock and grip in the carbine set-up
really does make a lot of difference and
it’s quite pleasurable to shoot specially
WWW.SMALLARMSREVIEW.COM 29 SAR Vol. 19, No. 7

CC3 GRIP SYSTEM
Above: The CC3 came without inlet for an ambidextrous
safety. This must be an added feature of the system
to eliminate the extra work to fit the extended part
of the safety. You need a Dremel tool to do it. Note the
exquisitely cut slot of the main spring housing to allow
installation of the Browning HP shoulder stock.
Below Right: The upgraded stocked 1911 is a perfect
companion to any modern tactical long arm be it AK,
AR or an FS-556 with superlative Mission First Tactical
attire seen with the gun.
with a compensated top end or a long
slide with a match barrel. This can only
be accomplished with a railed frame and
the CC3 system made this all possible
almost instantly without all the extra
work or expense.
Although the overall design characteristics
of the CC3 is quite impressive,
there is still a little bit more room
for improvement to further enhance its
ergonomic and user friendliness. One
desirable feature that can be incorporated
with the system is an elevated
serrated thumb rest to be positioned
just forward of the slide stop and behind
the CC3 marking on the dust cover. This
would be a perfect location for locking
the thumb of the non- shooting hand in
a two hand hold position to attain maximum
control of the gun as well as comfort.
The built-in thumb rest can be made
ambidextrous for all shooters and ideally
the same height and profile as the slide
stop serrated section. The right half of
the grip of the CC3 first production batch
has no cut for an ambidextrous safety.
The ambidextrous cut is now incorporated
on the latest production grips. A
square bottom type grip for Smith & Alexander
type mag-wells for those who
prefer to use this popular accessory as
an aid for speed reloading would also
be a welcome addition to the series. A
very useful tactical accessory for the
CC3 that can be put to a good use is
an optional one-piece scope mount that
can be slid and secured directly to the
rail of the grip. The mount will shroud
the top of the slide just forward of the
ejection port to allow unobstructed ejection
of empty shell during firing. The top
of the mount that covers the portion of
the slide would have a built-in rail similar
to that one already incorporated in
the CC3 for mounting a small red dot or
reflex type optic. The scope mount can
be tailored to have a clearance underneath
the shroud for aiming with an iron
sight without removing the mount in the
event the optic becomes unserviceable.
If the overall dimension of the bridge
module that encloses the slide can be
kept streamlined and flat, it can be a
phenomenal outfit for defense, competition
or hunting purposes. A very versatile
hi-quality optical mounting system is
currently available for this tactical set up.
It is called the handgun Universal Scope
Mount (USM) by Fab Defence, one
of Israel’s leading weapon accessory
SAR Vol. 19, No. 7 30 SEPT. 2015

producers. This accessory is made from
CNC machined 6061 T-6 aluminum and
beautifully anodized to match any handgun
finish. The USM features a top and
bottom rail system allowing the mounting
of an optic at the top and the bottom
for a folding forward grip such as the
Tactical Folding Fore-grips (FGG-S and
FGGK-S for Glock pistols) also made by
Fab Defence. Unfortunately, the USM is
not compatible for use with the CC3 due
to the low position of the rail in comparison
to rails cut directly to the frame of
the pistol. The good news is there is an
alternative mount to the USM that can
be used with the CC3 and is available
from SIG Sauer called bridge mount.
This accessory is made of high strength
polymer and a bit bulkier than the USM
but lighter. The bridge-mount features
top rail (for miniature reflex type optic)
and bottom rail (for weapon light, laser
or forward grip). Just recently, Recover
Tactical expanded their grip system series
with the introduction of the new BC2
grip system for the Beretta 92F pistol.
Sources
www.recovertactical.com
www.fabdefence.com
www.missionfirsttactical.com
www.sig-sauer.com
WWW.SMALLARMSREVIEW.COM 31 SAR Vol. 19, No. 7

Lage Manufacturing LLC
Upper Receivers for the
M11/Nine
By Frank Iannamico
Both organized and informal machine
gun shoots have been around for
many years. The firing lines at these
events are usually dominated by the
belt-fed guns, often leaving subgun
owners feeling somewhat left out. Before
long, the subgun crowd decided
they would organize their own special
event for subguns only. The contests
were won by successfully engaging
the most targets in the fastest time. Before
long, new challenges were added
that included the jungle walk, the fun
house and others.
The first documented submachine
gun contests, like those now held
semi-annually at the Knob Creek Range
in Kentucky, started in the late 1970s.
Early contests were largely dominated
by those wielding Thompsons, which
soon gave way when HK94 to MP5
submachine conversions became available
becoming the submachine gun of
choice for serious competitors. One disadvantage
to the MP5 was they were/
are expensive. Subgun contests have
substantially evolved and refined since
those early days. Today the playing field
has evened out with the introduction of
specific categories for the old classics,
as well as modern, open class, openbolt,
closed-bolt, rapid-fire weapons
(like MACs) and a special class for the
growing number of female competitors.
With the proliferation of rails and modern
optics, a few more categories were
added for weapons so equipped.
Like many endeavors, those with the
best (read expensive) equipment usually
prevail. However, Americans like an
underdog, which what the MAC-type
series of guns would certainly qualify
as when attempting to compete with
MP5 or M16/9mm submachine guns in
a contest environment. This is probably
the mindset that began the evolution of
MAC-type guns to be competitive. The
first known transformation into a competition
weapon was of an SWD M11/
Nine by individuals from the Triad Action
Shooter’s Klub or TASK. Their earliest
modifications included a wooden buttstock,
a muzzle brake and an inexpensive
red-dot sight. The cyclic rate was
reduced by using 9mm cartridges with a
reduced powder charge.
The original TASK M11/Nine design
continued to evolve with the addition
of an M16 buttstock, which utilized a
substantial M16 spring and a special
heavy buffer, along with a modified bolt
to slow down the cyclic rate to approximately
500-550 rounds per minute. Other
modifications included a magazine
housing to utilize British Sten 32-round
or Lanchester 50-round magazines, and
an extended magazine release lever. A
vertical grip and longer barrel were also
implemented. In capable hands, with
these modifications, the underdog M11/
Nine was able to record times that could
compete with, and often beat, the MP5,
M16/9mm and Uzis in the Modern and
Open events.
The (relatively) inexpensive MACtype
submachine guns modified for
competition opened up participation
in the matches for those who could
not afford an expensive weapon to
be competitive.
Note: The SWD M11/Nine is often
(incorrectly) referred to as a MAC or
MAC-11 confusing it with the original
.380 caliber Model or MAC 11 as manufactured
by the Military Armament Corporation,
RPB and SWD.
The SWD M11/Nine Submachine Gun
The 9mm M11/Nine submachine gun
was introduced in 1983 with an advertised
dealer price of $165. Patterned
after the basic Model 10 Ingram design,
the more compact M11/Nine was one of
the first submachine guns manufactured
specifically for the civilian market. However,
the M11/Nine had a lot of negative
features that included a fast cyclic rate,
poor stock design, crude sights and perhaps
worst of all its “revolutionary” Zytel
plastic magazines.
The SWD M11/Nine was primarily
constructed from sheet metal; bent,
formed and welded, similar to its Ingram
designed counterparts the Model 10 and
Model 11/.380. The upper receiver of the
M11/Nine was fabricated from 16-gauge
sheet metal with a steel block located at
the front end that was threaded to support
the barrel. The lower receiver was
made of slightly thicker 14-gauge steel,
except for the magazine well/pistol grip,
which was fabricated from 16-gauge
steel like the upper receiver. A steel
block was welded onto the bottom of the
lower receiver for strength and to support
the two struts of the wire buttstock.
The buttstock was of a slightly different
design than that used on the original
MAC. The M11/Nine stock could be deployed
by simply pulling the stock out in
a single movement. The bolt was made
from a steel casting. Most of the internal
parts were castings or steel stampings.
The magazine well was welded to the
back of the trigger guard, which was
made from 12-gauge steel strap. The
back of the magazine well was welded
to the bottom of the receiver. The front
and rear sights were formed from sheet
metal. The cast metal magazine catch
was held in place by two metal tabs
and a steel pin located at the bottom
of the magazine well. The magazine
catch pivot pin and spring were held in
place by a black plastic grip extension,
secured to the back of the magazine
housing by a single machine screw. The
SAR Vol. 19, No. 7 32 SEPT. 2015

M11/Nine
take-down pin holes at the front of the
lower receiver were reinforced with a
U shaped piece of steel welded to the
receiver. This was done to prevent elongation
of the holes, a condition caused
by movement between the upper
and lower receivers.
The SWD M11/Nine submachine gun
is approximately 1.9 pounds lighter (unloaded)
than the original 9mm and .45
ACP Model 10. The sheet metal of the
M11/Nine upper receiver is the same
thickness as the M10, the lower receiver
is .027-of an inch thinner, its receiver
is .44-inches narrower, and its height
.63-inches shorter than that of the MAC
10, but the overall length of the M11/
Nine receiver is approximately .69-inches
longer, to compensate for the smaller
inside dimensions of the upper receiver
and corresponding smaller-lighter bolt
assembly. The extra receiver length is
required to absorb the recoil energy
generated by the 9mm cartridge.
The first production M11/Nine
was sold to a dealer on 27 June
1983. While the earliest production
models had an integral firing pin
on the bolt face, it was eventually
replaced by a metal stamping for
ease of manufacture. The firing
pin is secured in the bolt by a pin
and easily removed.
The magazines designed for
the vast majority of production
SWD M11/Nines were made of
“space age” Zytel plastic, which
were considered quite revolutionary
when they were first introduced.
The excitement over the
new “space age” magazines was
short lived, as after a period of use,
feed lip failures as well as problems
with the magazine bodies splitting at
the seam became commonplace.
To solve the magazine problem, an
aftermarket magazine housing was designed
that would allow the M11/Nine to
utilize inexpensive surplus Sten magazines.
This modification required the removal
of the original housing and fitting
and welding the new one in place. There
were also a small number of aftermarket
upper receivers introduced that not only
reduced the cyclic rate, but also allowed
to use of Suomi 71-round drum magazines
and the 50-round 4-row duplex
magazine, better known as the coffin
mag because of its shape.
Over the years there were many
innovative products introduced that attempted
to improve the little subgun’s
ergonomics and tame its fast cyclic rate.
Many of the endeavors were short-lived
either due to a lack of customer interest
Front view of the MAX-31
with drum magazine.
WWW.SMALLARMSREVIEW.COM 33 SAR Vol. 19, No. 7

M11/Nine
Above: The MAX 11 Mk2 uses magazines
designed to fit the M11/Nine’s
magazine well.
Right: The aluminum MAX-11 Mk2
replaced the steel MAX-11 in 2013.
or the company offering the products
going out of business.
Necessity is the Mother of Invention
In the early days of subgun competitions
NFA weapons were far less expensive
than they are today. Back then it
was more practical to spend an additional
$1,000 or so to buy an MP5 or 9mm
M16 rather than spend a similar amount
to modify a MAC-type subgun to be competitive.
Unfortunately today, a transferable
MP5 can cost up to five-times that
of a M11/Nine.
Richard Lage bought his first machine
gun, a SWD M11/Nine for $700 in
October of 2000. The transfer was approved
and Richard took possession of
the gun in July of 2001. After shooting it
for less than a year, the novelty of the
fast cyclic rate wore off and he wanted
to slow it down. Apprehensive about
any modifications that required drilling
or welding on his (then) expensive submachine
gun, Mr. Lage decided to bite
the bullet (pun intended) and convert
his M11/Nine to the very popular TASK
Slow Fire configuration, which required
the drilling of a hole in the back of the
receiver. Experimenting with different
weight steel AR-15 buffers to adjust the
cyclic rate, Lage was able to lower the
rate of fire down to 400 rounds per minute.
Deciding that was a little too slow,
he eventually settled on a ideal rate
of fire around 600 rounds per minute.
With the rate of fire slowed, he moved
on to other improvements and created
the MAX-11/9 (not to be confused
with the MAX-11). The MAX-11/9 used
a modified M11/Nine upper receiver.
An aluminum rail attached to the top
had front and rear sights and a short
accessory rail for mounting a scope.
It had a cocking knob on the side and
was non-reciprocating with a spring return
as well as a polymer foregrip with
an accessory rail on the bottom. No
bolt was provided with the upper – the
customer was required to use their original
M11/Nine bolt assembly. The barrel
was 8.5 inches long and had a birdcage
flash hider installed. There were only
22 of the MAX-11/9 upper receivers
manufactured and sold.
The TASK style conversion with the
MAX-11/9 was a good concept, but
Lage wanted to be able to have the option
of adding a folding or collapsible
stock to the gun. Around this time Garrison
Precision was making their VSF Upper
(Very Slow Fire) for the M11/Nine. It
basically was an upper that was twice
as tall as the M11/Nine upper and had
a 1-inch square block of steel welded to
the top of the bolt to slow the gun down.
While this achieved the rate of fire reduction,
it was not a very aesthetically
pleasing design. Lage realized that a
better upper could be made by using a
lower profile bolt weight that overhung
the trunnion. He made a prototype by
cutting the top off of a stock M11/Nine
upper and welding on some steel channel
to increase the height by a 1/2 inch
and lengthening it on the front. He fabricated
a weight and bolted it on top of the
M11/Nine bolt. It test fired great, having
the reduced rate of fire he was looking
for. The design was further refined and
it evolved into the MAX-11. In 2004,
Richard Lage won the Arizona State
Subgun Match using an M11/Nine with a
MAX-11upper receiver. Lage Manufacturing
LLC produced the MAX-11s from
2003 to 2013. It has now been replaced
by the redesigned MAX-11 Mk2.
The MAX-11 Mk 2
The MAX-11 Mk2 was designed to
be stronger, lighter, faster and smoother
than the original MAX-11. The Mk2
upper receiver is made from 6061 Billet
aluminum and is hardcoat anodized for
a durable finish. A steel shell deflector
is attached behind the ejection port to
protect the finish. The billet upper receiver
design eliminates the need for a
polymer foregrip and side panels. Unlike
the MAX-11, the foregrip is built into the
upper receiver. The improved cocking
piece is a more ergonomic design and is
much stronger. The Mk2 is 1-1/3 pounds
lighter than the original steel MAX-11.
The lighter weight results in faster target
SAR Vol. 19, No. 7 34 SEPT. 2015

Above Left: The MAX-31 Mk2
is also designed for the SWD
M11/Nine. One of the best features
of the system is that it
allows the use of large capacity
Suomi drums and “coffin”
duplex magazines; eliminating
the need for the problematic
Zytel magazines.
Left: View of the MAX-31 with
the 50-round “coffin” magazine.
The system isn’t designed
to accept the Suomi
36-round box magazines.
acquisition and quicker transitions from
target to target.
The MAX-11 Mk2 comes standard
with a 670 rpm bolt assembly and with
the optional Variable Buffer System
(VBS-3) the rate of fire can be easily
changed to 690, 770 or 950 rpm. The
bolt weight sits lower on the bolt, closer
to the centerline of the bore providing a
smoother shooting gun that is easier to
keep on target.
The MAX-11 Mk2 features a longer
top rail; 12.5 inches versus the former
10-inches. This allows a longer sight
radius for fixed iron sights that result in
greater shooting accuracy. This additional
length also provides extra space
for adding secondary optics or laser
aiming devices. The top rail is lower,
which moves the sight line closer to
the centerline of the bore. This results
in less elevation adjustment when
shooting at distant targets. A 3-inch rail
is mounted underneath the upper for
mounting additional accessories.
The Mk2 features a chrome-moly
steel 8 3/8-inch barrel threaded
1/2-28 at muzzle and fitted with a
9mm “Birdcage” flash suppressor.
Rifling twist is 1:16.
In addition to the popular MAX-11
Mk2, Lage Manufacturing LLC also offers
the MAX-31 Mk2 upper receiver for
the SWD M11/Nine submachine gun.
The Lage MAX-31 Mk2
The MAX-31 Mk2 upper receiver,
designed for the M11/Nine submachine
gun is specifically designed to allow the
use of the 71-round Suomi M31 drum
magazines. The longer receiver converts
the M-11/Nine into a carbine length
submachine gun to provide greater control
and ease of handling. The 71-round
drum magazine allows longer time between
magazine changes, to save precious
time during matches. The upper
features an ambidextrous paddle-type
magazine release.
Like the MAX-11 Mk2, the MAX-31
Mk2 upper receiver is made from aluminum
that is hardcoat anodized for a
durable finish. The MAX-31 Mk2 features
include an 18-1/8 inch long accessory
rail on top and hard mount
points for additional M1913 rails on the
right and left side of the front handgrip.
The 5.25-inch bottom rail is integral.
Contained within the upper receiver is
a heavy weight bolt assembly with a
longer length of travel than the factory
M11/Nine upper receiver. This reduces
the cyclic rate of fire from 1,100 rounds
per minute down to approximately 770
rounds per minute. Optional cyclic rates
of 830 and 840 rounds per minute can
be achieved with use of the optional
Variable Buffer System. Due to the reduced
cyclic rate and longer bolt travel,
muzzle rise is reduced, the gun is considerably
smoother in operation and
easier to keep on target. The non-reciprocating
cocking handle is located on
the left side of the receiver. The MAX-31
Mk2 attaches to the stock M11/Nine lower
receiver without any modification to
the lower receiver using the original retaining
pin. 50-round M31 coffin magazines
can also be used with the MAX-31
Mk2, unfortunately the design doesn’t
WWW.SMALLARMSREVIEW.COM 35 SAR Vol. 19, No. 7

permit the use of the Suomi double-feed
36-round box-type magazines.
The standard barrel of the MAX-
31 is 8-3/8 inches long. The muzzle is
threaded 1/2-28 with a 9mm bird cage
type flash hider installed. Optional at
extra cost is an 8-5/8 inch long barrel
threaded 3/4-10 on the muzzle for use
with the original SWD factory M-11/
Nine or MAC suppressor. Also available
at extra cost is the 8-3/4 inch long barrel
with an HK type 3-lug machined on
the muzzle. All Lage barrels are made
from 4140 chrome-moly steel with a
black oxide finish.
Overall dimensions of the MAX-31
Mk2 when assembled to an M-11/Nine
lower receiver: overall length with optional
7.5 inch buttstock is 29-inches,
height 6.5 inches, width- 2.25-inches.
Unloaded weight is 6 pounds, 2.5 ounces.
Weight of 72-round drum Magazine:
2 pounds 2-1/2 ounces.
Accessories
In addition to their upper receivers,
Lage LLC offers a host of accessories
designed to enhance ergonomics
and performance to include both fixed
and side-folding buttstocks made of
black polymer in a choice of lengths to
fit any shooter. A collapsible buttstock
with a fixed polymer butt plate is also
offered. All stocks have a provision
for attaching a sling.
The optional two-piece molded
polymer grip features a finger groove,
a ribbed front and stippling on the
sides. The rounded backstrap is more
comfortable than the stock grip and extends
lower. The bottom of the grip features
a funnel shape on the bottom to
facilitate faster magazine changes.
A second grip is available with the
addition of a lever above the grip to activate
the heel mounted magazine release.
The grip is the same as the standard
two-piece molded grip except it has
an internal mechanism to activate the
heel mounted magazine release with a
thumb actuated lever at the top of the
grip. When used with “drop-free” magazines,
the empty magazine can be released
while reaching for a replacement
magazine, saving valuable seconds,
a highly desirable feature for timed
subgun competitions.
A vertical K-Grip is designed to
attaches to any M1913 Picatinny rail.
Above Top: The MAX-31 Lage upper receiver with bolt
assembly. The MAX-31 lowers the cyclic rate of the M11/
Nine down to a manageable 770 rounds per minute. Optional
cyclic rates of 830 and 840 rounds per minute can be
achieved with use of the optional Variable Buffer System.
Above: The Lage MAX-31 Mk2 with the optional side-folding
stock.
SAR Vol. 19, No. 7 36 SEPT. 2015

M11/Nine
Right side of the MAX-31 Mk
2, with the optional side-folding
stock, vertical foregrip, pistol
grip and 3-lug suppressor
mount. The red-dot sight is a
Primary Arms MD-06.
The canted angle allows a natural
shooting stance that is more comfortable
than a straight vertical grip. The
clamp is made from 6061 aluminum and
finished in black anodize. The grip portion
is made from black polymer.
For those who need additional rails
for attaching accessories to the sides of
the upper receiver such as flashlights
or lasers, Lage offers left and right side
mount rails made from 6061 aluminum
and finished in hardcoat black anodize.
Other available products include an
extended safety lever that mounts at
the front of the trigger guard. The lever
makes it quick and easy to positively
engage and disengage the safety on
a M11/Nine. Great for use in subgun
competitions. Also available is an internal
safety slide that has more bearing
surface and is made from steel with a
black oxide finish. It is designed to replace
the original slide that is made of
cast aluminum.
Also available for the M11/Nine
are several competition triggers,
an improved extractor, a hardened
sear, extended safety lever, buffers
and steel feed lips for the original
Zytel magazines.
Richard Lage was not the first one
that has attempted to tame the fast
cyclic rate, and improve upon the poor
ergonomics of SWD’s M11/Nine. However,
he has certainly had the most success
and longevity of those who have
tried. Many potential buyers of similar
products paid their fees and got on a
waiting list only to find that the individual
or company had gone out of business.
With Lage you get on the list and pay
only when your purchase is ready to
ship. Being in business for over twelve
years and having a growing waiting list
is testament to the quality of his products
and excellent customer service.
Sources
Lage Manufacturing LLC
Phone:(480) 219-8893
E-Mail: Sales@max-11.com
Web: http://www.max-11.com/
Gordon Ingram, the MAC MAN
Chipotle Publishing LLC
Phone: (102) 565-0746
Web: https://www.smallarmsreview.com
WWW.SMALLARMSREVIEW.COM 37 SAR Vol. 19, No. 7

BY DAVID LAKE
As the name implies, Battle Arms Development, Inc.
(herein, Battle Arms, or BAD) is a product development
firm. They specialize in creating new products and solutions
to satisfy the needs of the hobby and professional
shooter; and even solve the problems these shooters
don’t yet know they have. Preemption is the Battle Arms’
strategy to successful problem solving. BAD was founded
by an engineer and architect with an impressive
resume in the themed entertainment industry, George
Huang. He has worked for Walt Disney Imagineering,
Universal Studios, and many major casino hotel resort
venues around the world. His work mainly involved
creating lighting and special effects displays to attract
and impress the crowd. George’s superpower is that he
knows what people want.
In 2009, Battle Arms Development was launched
and began by offering a few armorers tools and AR-15
accessories. Today, BAD is an OEM supplier to dozens
of other small arms manufacturers. There’s a good
chance that your favorite boutique AR brand features
the BAD selector lever as standard equipment. And
BAD offers its services as a consulting firm and project
development partner to a handful of new, small startups
in the arms industry. Battle Arms’ latest claim to fame is
that they’re an engineering and manufacturing partner
to Bentwood Gunsmithing, the creators and purveyors
of the world’s lightest AR-15 rifle, known as the OIP.
SAR Vol. 19, No. 7 38 SEPT. 2015

WWW.SMALLARMSREVIEW.COM 39 SAR Vol. 19, No. 7

The family of BAD safety selectors. There are
many more available colors and lever styles.
The mainstay of the BAD product
line is the modular ambidextrous safety
selector for the AR-15. The safety can
be regarded as an innocuous and relatively
simple part of the AR-15 mechanism.
And that is not untrue. But George
Huang is not one to accept that simple
conclusion. He saw that the selector is
one of the most important parts of a rifle.
The rifles used in service by law enforcement
and security companies may
never fire, and if so, rarely. But, those
same rifles may be deployed and carried
and handled and loaded and unloaded
on a daily basis throughout their service
life. The selector lever can see more
use than the trigger in some cases. And
this begs the question, why then do we
spend up to $400 on a trigger for our
AR-15, and just accept the solid, cast
safety that came in a little bag with our
rifle’s small parts kit? Well, we shouldn’t.
That’s the straight answer. The safety
selector on a rifle is as important as the
brakes on a car. The selector made by
BAD has been optimized to enhance
its role and utility. The selector levers
are modular, that is, they can be interchanged
as required to fit a shooter. The
internal barrel of the BAD safety is made
of hardened steel. The detent pin supplied
with the safety selector kit is also
harden stainless steel and features an
improved geometry – this coupled with
similarly refined geometry of the track
in the selector barrel, where the detent
rides, results in the most positive feeling
safety on the market. The BAD safety
delivers audible and tactile feedback to
the shooter. The modular levers that are
available in different lengths and profiles
can also be had in many colors. There’s
a BAD safety selector lever to match
your new camouflage dip or Cerakote
treatment. Or your selector can be red,
pink, Tiffany Blue, zombie green or even
raw stainless steel, just to upset the
monotony of the “black rifle.” The BAD
selector lever is available in two basic
operating designs featuring the typical
90 degree swing and the 50 degree
short throw lever. Among those two options,
there are two basic constructions
as well: the standard, BAD-ASS (Ambi
Safety Selector) and the BAD-CASS
(Combat Ambi Safety Selector), which
has been “up-armored” for professional
use. The CASS unit is mechanically
locked together by a robust dovetail
and a locking torx screw. The CASS lever
is available in a select fire version
also, to suit the needs of government
agencies and the lucky owners of legal
M16s. Battle Arms also makes a selector
for the S&W MP15-22 to replace
the plastic OEM part. And as a teaser
Battle Arms would not confirm, but
won’t deny, plans on an upcoming short
throw safe/full-auto only selector with
no semi-auto setting.
Another growing sector of our shooting
community is long range precision
shooting, also known as “tactical rifle.”
This shooting discipline employs what
some may call a “sniper rifle” to engage
practical targets at distance, in less
than ideal conditions. A shooter may
be required to shoot without a bipod, or
from a rooftop, or while lying in weeds
or gravel. The targets may present at
unknown distances, or with limited time
exposures. This type of shooting has
become very equipment oriented. More
and more, shooters of “tactical rifle” can
simply buy superiority over the other
competitors. Enter Battle Arms Development.
BAD did not invent the detachable
box magazine (DBM) kit for the bolt
SAR Vol. 19, No. 7 40 SEPT. 2015

The BAD-DBM made for short-action Remington 700
pattern rifles. It accepts “AI” pattern magazines.
action rifle, but they did indeed make
it better. Most DBM devices place the
magazine release button outside or far
enough from the trigger guard that the
shooter’s support hand is required to
eject the spent magazine, and replace
it with a new magazine. The BAD-DBM
incorporates the magazine release paddles
into the contour of the trigger guard.
This allows the trigger finger to extend
forward and easily reach and operate
the mag release. This frees up the support
hand to simultaneously go off in
search of a full magazine, which cuts
down reload time by half.
It should be agreed upon that Battle
Arms is not really in the accessory market.
It is more correct to say that BAD is
in the problem solving business. One of
the biggest persistent problems affecting
shooters today is control and handling
of their weapon. If parts and accessories
don’t claim to make your gun
more reliable, they probably claim to
enhance its feel, handling, and control.
This may allude to the shooter interface
– the ergonomics of the gun, specifically,
the stock and grip and forearm. It is
not misleading to suggest that a rifle’s
attitude and performance under fire can
be tamed by a proper fit to the shooter
and balance in his hands. Also, control
and handling can be enhanced further
by enforcing proper “hold” by the user.
Technique can usually make up for technology
to some degree, and vise-versa.
Remember that next time someone is
selling you something. Knowing this,
BAD conspired in the development and
refinement of a next generation stock assembly
for the AR-15. Battle Arms calls
their optimized lightweight butt stock the
BAD-LBS. The LBS and its accompanying
SABERTUBE receiver extension
represent some “next gen” thinking. The
length of the tube, and angle and draft
of the butt plate are based on research
into firearm behavior, the structure of the
average human body, and the abilities
and ideals of today’s shooting community.
This may sound like snake oil at first
consideration, but it has merit. Less experienced
shooters tend to “blade” their
body toward a target, or turn sideways
while presenting the rifle. This position
further encourages bad form by suggesting
that a shooter place the rifle’s
butt plate very high on the shoulder.
The shooter must then bring the stock
comb up to the head, which is setting
atop a relaxed and vertical neck. This
technique is ideal for slow fire, off-hand
target shooting. This is not the way to
The SABERTUBE and BAD-
LBS assemblies. The SABER-
TUBE comes in two variations;
one offers a separate endplate
that incorporates a flush cup
sling attachment point.
present a semiautomatic combat rifle to
a would-be assailant on the battlefield.
This is not the way to carry your AR-15
onto the high-stakes game of multi-gun
competition. This sideways and “open”
hold of a rifle leaves the gun largely
unsupported against any force besides
gravity. Recoil and carryover forces
from the cycling mass in the rifle will
push and pull the shooter around, and
recoil will push the gun back into the
shoulder, then up and over and away
from the shooter; off to the high one
o’clock direction. By positioning oneself
correctly behind and “on top of” a rifle,
that rifle’s inherent control and accuracy
can be improved. Proper form and
hold on a rifle will reduce muzzle climb
WWW.SMALLARMSREVIEW.COM 41 SAR Vol. 19, No. 7

The EPS-Ti (left) and EPS (right). One
can make out the altered head geometry
of the pins, which facilitates easier operation
with a fingernail.
and overall recoil. Proper form will facilitate
faster target transitions and make
“walking fire” possible, and ultimately
effective. The stock assembly offered
by Battle Arms is not for decoration. It
is a bolt-on performance enhancing upgrade
for the AR-15. The BAD-LBS and
SABERTUBE work by simply encouraging
correct form and magnifying the performance
enhancement afforded by the
employment of proper technique. It will
help you shoot better. The SABERTUBE
and LBS componentry is all made from
7075 aluminum and type 3 hard-coat
anodized. The SABERTUBE is honed
and polished inside for smooth motion
of the rifle’s recoiling mass. The unique
dimpled structure of the tube promises
great strength at an overall weight savings
and, though the SABERTUBE’s
length falls somewhere between that of
rifle and carbine, it uses a standard carbine
buffer and spring assembly.
Most of the ideas and innovations
from Battle Arms began as inert boring
parts that we see on “old fashioned”
AR-15 rifles. Most hobby shooters and
professionals alike are generally content
with what they’ve got. Most just want
“more,” not necessarily “better” when it
comes to guns. But not George Huang.
He has the habit of scrutinizing everything
and looking for possibilities and
greatness in the most mundane and inanimate
things. The takedown and pivot
pins on the AR have been brought into
the 21st century with the BAD-EPS (Enhanced
Pin Set) kit. These pins include a
neodymium-iron-boron rare earth magnet
that secures the detent pin in a small
dimple at the bottom of the pivot pin, to
assist with holding the pin while it is inserted
into its pocket, atop the spring.
The EPS pivot pin incorporates a shallow
guide channel to maintain control of
the detent pin until it snaps into the main
groove on the pivot pin, thereafter remaining
captive. This method facilitates
a tool-free installation, and makes losing
the elusive little detent impossible. One
step further is the BAD-EPS-Ti. This
pin kit comes crafted in 6AL-4V titanium
for ultimate in corrosion resistance,
strength, and weight savings. They’re
also beautiful to look at. Both EPS pin
kits feature improved head geometry,
and increased length, both to make toolfree
operation fast, easy, and painless.
The EPS kits include selected premium
springs and detents to ensure correct,
positive function. Since Battle Arms’ involvement
in the OIP ultra-light rifle project,
titanium has become more common
in Battle Arms’ lineup. Soon to go up for
sale is an ultra-lean titanium gas block
by BAD said to weigh less than the gas
tube. Some firms in the gun industry
shy away from the use of Titanium for
its added expense and the extra care
that must be taken during the manufacture
of parts, but George Huang is
not scared of Titanium. Keep an eye
on Battle Arms for more upcoming
Titanium accessories.
The magazine button is another boring
item that is overlooked by everyone.
Not at BAD. The Battle Arms magazine
button, the BAD-EMR, has seen that
the magazine release button rise to new
levels of distinction. It’s made from 7075
aluminum, because it’s harder and stronger
and costs more and is more difficult
to machine. But it’s better, therefore it is
the material chosen by George Huang
to craft a simple button. They come in
8 different anodized finishes, some will
match your camouflage pattern, others,
like red, gold, or blue will boldly stand
out against your black rifles. The EMR
is slightly taller than other buttons. The
screw does not protrude through the
V-shaped face, and the smooth horizontal
serrations allow the finger to “swipe”
the button to initiate lightning fast mag
changes. The extra height makes for
ideal application to competitive shooting.
For more serious endeavors, the
magazine latch post can be cut short in
order to mount the EMR lower, and below
the “fence” on the receiver, to avoid
inadvertently dropping a mag.
Whenever Battle Arms cannot improve
on an item (where perhaps someone
already has), BAD stocks and sells
those optimized premium parts on his
web store. Battle Arms Development
stocks the ambidextrous magazine release
from Norgon, anti-rotation pins,
and takedown and selector detents
from KNS Precision, the Fortis SWITCH
rail and the SHIFT short angle grip.
Also, BAD carries the modular Tactical
Link sling mount, the MFT Battlelink
collapsible stock and triggers from
Geisele, ALG and CMC. Rainier and
Battle Comp muzzle brakes as well.
The consumer can buy with confidence
SAR Vol. 19, No. 7 42 SEPT. 2015

if George is selling it. The reason Battle
Arms carries these fine products from
these respectable companies is that
the Battle Arms brand of complete rifles
(soon to be unveiled) are all built using
these premium parts.
The beating heart of the AR-15 is the
receiver and Battle Arms has not forgotten
this. BAD offers two trim levels to
their receivers. The entry model, coined
the BAD-15, is a premium forged lower
that features a precision wire EDM cut
magazine well. The working surfaces
are all CNC machined and holes are all
precision reamed to size. All markings
are laser engraved into the aluminum in
fine detail. The Battle Arms “SPARTAN”
logo shows itself in bold 3D relief. Prior
to final finish, the BAD-15 is tumbled in
fine abrasive media to even out the texture
and marks from tooling or fixtures
to produce a smooth satin surface. The
receiver is finished in a Mil-Spec Type III
Class 2 hardcoat anodizing
The next step up in receivers is the
BAD556-LW; available as a matched set
upper and lower. It’s a departure from
the norm even among the “billet” receivers
of today and is a radical departure
in that it weighs less than a basic forged
receiver. The design takes cues from architecture.
The “web and strut” can be
found in skyscrapers and aircraft. It’s a
beautiful and efficient way to incorporate
strength and rigidity without adding
more material. The overall aesthetic of
the BAD556-LW finds its roots in Battle
Arms’ collaboration on the OIP ultra-light
rifle project. When compared to the exclusive
and elusive OIP receiver (the
OIP receivers are also made by Battle
Arms), The BAD556-LW features a full
length Picatinny rail to give the shooter
a multitude of sighting options. This receiver
lacks the see-through windows of
the OIP allows for the use of a dust cover
door. So it offers all the versatility and
capability of any receiver, but weighs
less and looks amazing while doing it.
The other major component of the
AR-15 is the barrel. The barrel is the last
influence a shooter has on a bullet before
it is sent out, alone, into the world to
find its target; the singular task for which
all bullets are made. The barrel of a gun
cannot be taken lightly and is, in fact, an
iconic image today (recall a James Bond
intro montage). The barrel requires supreme
quality and precision and must
be built to a specific purpose; the length,
weight, taper, twist rate, contour and
construction material all determine the
role for which any barrel is ideally suited.
The “one size fits all approach” is a
losing strategy when it comes to the barrel
on your AR-15. Late in 2014, Battle
Arms released the LIGHTRIGID barrel.
The thinking behind it was that if little
material was used, little material would
be required to support it. This is true in
architecture and engineering alike as
the heavier a structure becomes, the
heavier it must then become to maintain
strength in its operating threshold.
As a barrel gets longer, it must become
fatter to maintain rigidity. As a barrel becomes
heavier, its spine is taxed by its
own weight, and a stressed barrel will
exhibit increased harmonic frequency,
which leads to poor accuracy. At an extreme
degree, a barrel can be made so
thick and heavy, that it will not exhibit
any harmonic activity, but nobody wants
to carry that barrel around. The length
and weight of a barrel do not directly determine
inherent accuracy. Rigidity and
internal finish and tolerance determine
accuracy. Battle Arms set out to make
The array of BAD-EMR buttons in
seven available anodized colors.
the best light barrel; not the lightest
good barrel. Double heat treated and
cryogenic stress relieved 416 R stainless
is used in the LIGHTRIGID barrel.
This stainless alloy can be machined
and tooled while maintaining a superb
surface finish. The twist rate is 1-8 inches.
This is actually the ideal twist for 55
and 62 grain .223 projectiles. 1-7 inches
has found some popularity, and thus,
demand in the current market. There is
little demonstrable reason for a 1-7 inch
barrel on a compact rifle wearing a 14.5
or 16-inch barrel. 1-7 is better suited for
the DCM course, in slow fire high power
competition. In fact, some high power
shooters at Camp Perry still use 1-8 inch
twist with bullets up to 80 grains. The
LIGHTRIGID barrel has been kept to a
minimum safe contour. It’s also worth
mention that these barrels have extra
material around the chamber and are
The BAD-15 premium forged receiver. Note that
the fences around the selector hole are absent.
All markings are laser engraved with artistic precision.
There is no visual evidence that the receiver
has been cut, tooled, or machined in any
way. They are as smooth as glass.
thicker over the length behind the gas
block than the standard M4 barrel profile.
This is done for added safety, better
accuracy and a longer service life. The
gas block journal is only 5/8 inch diameter
(this was the original design of the
first AR rifles). The barrel is fluted across
the entire length as a measure to save
weight. The rifling is formed by a precision
button process. The LIGHTRIGID
barrel only comes with a mid-length gas
system; it is preferred over the standard
carbine as it runs with slightly reduced
pressure and particulate in the
gas charge. These barrels are chambered
in .223 Wylde, an improved 5.56
NATO chamber that allows for the reliable
use of all NATO spec ammo, and
yet returns supreme levels of accuracy
with match grade .223 ammunition. All
LIGHTRIGID barrels come threaded
with the standard 1/2 x 28 at the muzzle.
As an option, the LIGTRIGID can be had
in a 2-tone finish.
Yet to come from Battle Arms: There
are rumors of their own ambidextrous
charging handle, lightweight (and maybe
modular) bolt stop, lightweight magazine
latch, and an array of caliber choices in
the new LIGHTRIGID barrel. Be on the
lookout for .300 AAC blackout (subsonic
and supersonic variants), 6.8 SPC, and
even 7.62 NATO and 6.5 Creedmoor,
whenever the BAD556-LW grows into
the large pattern. There are two exciting
(and unofficial) projects that are being
kept in a vault, in the sub-basement of
the Battle Arms’ research laboratory – a
6.8 SPC specific receiver set, to accommodate
the new optimized pattern magazines,
which allow the 6.8 to stagger
correctly and utilize some extra room in
the mag for new and better bullet profiles.
This receiver pattern is very specialized;
to both the bolt group and magazine,
but it does let the 6.8 come into its
own realm and stretch it legs rather than
share space with the underachieving
5.56. Also we found an impossibly cool
new take on the AR receiver. It’s a PDW
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The LIGHTRIGID barrel in “black
stainless” appeal shows great attention
to detail.
monolithic receiver/stock combo. It’s a
joint endeavor between Battle Arms and
Cross Machine Tool. It features a sliding
wire frame stock that lives in and on the
receiver. The receiver is the stock and
the stock is the receiver. To reiterate,
the ultra-short PDW style collapsible
buttstock mechanism does not attach to
the receiver – it is born there. This new
design cuts inches and ounces off the
assembled configuration of many other
offerings to this market. It comes with
its own special space-saving buffer and
spring system and even a beard-friendly
carbon fiber cheek rest. The entire
surprise will not be spoiled here, now.
Suffice to say that it is an over-achieving
piece of engineering and is peerless in
execution. SAR will have images of this
exciting receiver in an upcoming issue.
Battle Arms Development is rapidly
becoming a front-runner in the race
to reform and re-brand the AR-15. But
BAD is not a giant disconnected company.
One can actually call the office
and speak to George Huang. Or you
can speak to his wife (who is really the
boss). Battle Arms has always held
the ideals of “progress and innovation”
higher than “production and margins.”
Respect and reputation are also on the
list of what’s important at Battle Arms.
BAD seeks out and welcomes contact
with and feedback from the end user of
the product. Battle Arms can offer tremendous
input and insight in projects or
ideas to established companies or new
startups. They should not be seen as a
competitor, but a partner. The goal and
purpose of Battle Arms Development is
to make what you the shooter; weekend
player or workweek professional, want
and need from your rifle.
Battle Arms Development, Inc.
180 Cassia Way, Suite 510
Henderson, NV 89014.
Phone: (702) 802-3588
www.battlearmsdevelopment.com
https://www.facebook.com/BattleArms
Instagram: Battlearms
SAR Vol. 19, No. 7 44 SEPT. 2015

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SAR Vol. 19, No. 7 46 SEPT. 2015

SCCY INDUSTRIES
CPX-2
An Every Day Carry Gun for Everyone
By Chris A. Choat
In 1998, Joe Roebuck recognized that there was an increasing
demand for a safe, simple to operate and affordable firearm
as a growing number of states enacted legislation to allow concealed-carry
permits to law-abiding citizens. His company had
more than three decades of experience in the manufacturing
industry, so he set out to apply his skills as a Tool & Die Maker
and Mechanical Design Engineer to design such a firearm. What
he ended up with is now known as the CPX series of 9mm firearms.
In September 2003, Roebuck founded Skyy Industries,
LLC, (now known as SCCY Industries, LLC and pronounced
“sky”), to produce the innovative CPX line. Their manufacturing
facilities are located in Daytona Beach, Florida, just a half a mile
from the famous Daytona 500 speedway.
The CPX line of pistols consists of the CPX-1 and the CPX-2.
They are both chambered in 9mm and they are identical except
that the CPX-1 has a manual safety lever. Both pistols are double
action only and are hammer fired. They have a fairly long,
heavy trigger pull but that is usually the rule for this type of pistol.
In the SCCY pistol, the hammer is at rest until the trigger is almost
to the end of its pull. Only then is the hammer fully cocked
making the gun completely safe until the trigger is intentionally
pulled all the way back. This makes for an extremely safe
Above: The SCCY CPX-2 pistol is a
hammer-fired double action only 9mm
pistol. Though compact and designed
for concealed carry, it has a 10 + 1
round capacity.
The SCCY CPX-2 loaded with 10 + 1
rounds of a high performance 9mm
defense load like the ASYM 9mm +P
TAC-XP load makes for a very compact
lethal package. SCCY says that
+P ammunition is recommended only
in the CPX-2 model and only then in
limited quantities.
WWW.SMALLARMSREVIEW.COM 47 SAR Vol. 19, No. 7

CPX-2
Left: The SCCY CPX-2 uses a
double stack magazine but the
polymer used in the grip allows it
to be thin enough for concealed
carry. Designed with a right handed
shooter in mind there is no slide
release or magazine release on
the right side on the gun.
Below: The CPX-2’s sights are basic but
the large white 3-dot setup is easy to see
and quick to pick up. The front is machined
into the slide and the rear is drift
adjustable for windage and uses an Allen
screw to lock it into place. Both front and
rear sights have no sharp edges to snag
on clothing.
firearm; something that anyone carrying
a gun should make their primary
concern. The pistol that was used in our
testing was their CPX-2 model. Since
the gun is safe because of its internal design
this author had no use for a manual
safety. If and when someone needs to
use a concealed gun there are enough
things to think about without the safety
being one of them. It should be just
draw, aim and fire.
The CPX-2 has a stainless steel
slide and a polymer frame. The slide
has cocking serrations and uses a 3-dot
set of sights. The front sight is machined
into the slide and the rear is dovetailed.
The rear sight is drift adjustable and has
a locking screw. The slide and the sights
have smooth, rounded edges with nothing
to snag clothing or hinder being able
to draw the gun quickly. The gun has a
barrel that is 3.1 inches long, machined
from bar stock and has a 16:1 right hand
twist. The recoil spring and guide rod
are all steel and are fully encapsulated
so no parts to go flying or get lost during
disassembly. The gun’s frame is made
from aluminum mounted into a Zytel
polymer grip. It has ergonomic finger
grooves and what SCCY Industries calls
a “Re-Coil Cushion” molded in. With this
model, controls consist of just a slide
release lever and a magazine release
button – neither of which are ambidextrous.
The complete gun is 4 inches
tall and 5.7 inches from front to back.
It has a thickness of exactly 1 inch. It
is slightly thicker than other concealed
carry guns but this is because it carries
11+1 9mm cartridges.
The pistol is fed from a standard
steel 10-round magazine of which 2 are
included with it. They are double stack
magazines and there are two finger
extension and two flat magazine base
plates also included. They can be interchanged
as per shooter preference. The
gun is also shipped with a trigger lock
and two keys.
All of the SCCY pistols can be ordered
with either a black nitride or natural
stainless steel finish on the slide.
The polymer frame can be acquired in
black, flat dark earth, pink and now the
new purple. Of course you can mix and
match the colors as you desire. The test
pistol featured a black slide, fire controls
and a flat dark earth grip.
The pistol was received several
months ago and testing proceeded
apace. In the first three weeks, the pistol
fired over 500 rounds with no issues
SAR Vol. 19, No. 7 48 SEPT. 2015

or failures of any kind. It shot full metal
jackets and hollow points alike. The gun
was not cleaned or lubricated; it was
just shot. It didn’t have a preference for
any ammunition type; it shot everything
including the author’s reloads. We also
shot aluminum cased ammunition with
no problems. It was even fed some +P
loads with not so much as a hiccup.
SCCY Industries recommends that
+P ammunition be shot ONLY in their
CPX-2 models and then only in limited
quantities. As this pistol is marketed as
a conceal carry pistol, this author started
carrying it on a regular basis in my
vehicle and in my briefcase as well as
in an inside the belt concealment holster
to see what effects long term carry
would have on the gun’s finish. In short
the gun still looks like new. Just as this
article was being finished, a holster was
received for testing that may just be this
author’s favorite new holster. It’s called
the Stealth Operator Compact Holster
and is made by Phalanx Defense Systems.
Four months and several hundred
more rounds later the gun performed
perfectly and still looks almost new with
only a very small shiny spot on the edge
of the slide. During all of this time the
gun was shot at least on a weekly basis
and sometimes 2 or 3 times a week. Every
time another gun was tested for an
article, the SCCY pistol was taken out
and shot. An exact count at this point
wasn’t being made but it has to have
fired close to 1,000 rounds to date.
In the accuracy department the pistol
is more accurate than this author can
hold it and several other shooters have
shot groups into 2 inches at 50 feet. The
gun is far more accurate than it needs
to be for the job it was designed to do.
If it can shoot into 2 inches at 50 feet
then it is more than accurate enough for
The pistol comes with two10-round magazines as
well as two types of magazine floorplates to tailor
the grip to the individual shooter’s hand. The gun
is offered in several color combinations of both
slide and frame. The test gun featured a self-lubricating,
scratch-resistant black nitride finish and
the grip frame was flat dark earth color.
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SAR Vol. 19, No. 7 50 SEPT. 2015

the “across the room” ranges that most
concealed carry guns are designed for.
The trigger on the gun was not at all bad
when it was received for testing and
seems to be even better now. Yes, it is
a heavy pull (about 7 to 8 pounds) but
on this type of gun that’s the way this
author likes it. It is a long a pull but very
smooth, much like that of a high quality
revolver. The gun’s sights feature fairly
large white dots and you can pick them
up quickly and easily even in low light
situations making it a very good home
defense or bedside gun.
My concluding thoughts on the pistol
are very different from my first impressions.
At first I thought that this was just
another low priced pistol that was built
cheaply and was built to sell in high volumes
without much regard as to its reliability
or accuracy. I was very wrong.
In the last few months this gun has had
more ammunition shot through it than
most SCCY pistols will probably be shot
in their lifetimes. Speaking of lifetimes,
all SCCY pistols carry a No-Questions-
Asked Lifetime Warranty that stays with
the gun. In short, I highly recommend
this gun. With a retail price of only of
only $314 for the CPX-2 ($334 for the
CPX-1) it is a bargain. In fact you should
have one in your home as well as one
in all of your vehicles. The pistol has
great round capacity, light weight, low
recoil, total reliability, the best warranty
and is very accurate. What more could
you ask for?
SCCY Firearms
1800 Concept Court
Daytona Beach, FL 32114
Phone: (386) 322-6336
Website: www.sccy.com
CPX-2
Some of the range testing included drawing from a holster and
engaging a target with a single round, as fast as possible, at 20
feet: Five shots, five center mass hits.
WWW.SMALLARMSREVIEW.COM 51 SAR Vol. 19, No. 7

The
G2 RIP
Ammunition
Next Generation Ammunition
By Christopher R. Bartocci
Like firearms, ammunition hits a peak of development and levels off.
Once in a while, something really new hits the market. Back in 1991,
Winchester Black Talon was introduced to the market and there was an
outcry from gun control advocates and some medical personnel that his
round was too lethal and should be banned because of its excessive
destructive nature. At what point do we really say any ammunition is too
dangerous? The purpose of a defensive bullet is to stop the threat. There
are different ways to do that such as by destroying major blood vessels
and lungs and heart and this is accomplished by using a projectile that
destroys tissue. Full metal jacket projectiles do this by punching holes
in them; hollow point projectiles do this by destroying tissue as they
expand. The more the projectile fragments the more separate wound
channels are made thus more tissue is destroyed with an end result in
stopping the threat. Some projectiles do this better than others. Anyone
who has studied the theory and application of wound ballistics knows that
there is no magic bullet. There is no magic caliber either.
Interestingly, one would be surprised how often hollow point projectile
do not open up as designed. There are many factors; this includes initial
barriers such as glass, wood, drywall and most importantly clothing. Hollow
point projectiles can become clogged with clothing (cotton, denim,
polyester, etc.) that will prevent them from opening and also depending
on the density of the tissue the bullet strikes. Harder muscle and bones
for instance can affect the opening of a projectile. Then straight soft tissue
hits can open projectiles up as designed. It would not be uncommon
at all to have multiple shots and have only 20% of the projectiles actually
mushroom as designed due to all of these potential variables. With
that being said, some believe in the single projectile that retains all of its
weight and expands nearly double in diameter as the way to go where
others believe in fragmentation. Leave that up to the individual to decide.
However, from the standpoint of physiology, the more tissue destroyed
the more apt you are to stop an attacker.
Bullet manufacturing and development has taken a direction away
from lead in the area of high performance hollow point ammunition beginning
with solid copper Barnes bullets – made in both rifle and pistol
rounds. Originally developed in high caliber rifle rounds for deep penetration
in heavy to dangerous game, the solid copper projectile now
make up some very good pistol projectiles including the Barnes TAC-TX.
SAR Vol. 19, No. 7 52 SEPT. 2015

Precision CNC manufacturing goes into each
projectile. This is why the cost of the ammunition
is high as this is a lengthy and detailed
CNC manufacturing process.
WWW.SMALLARMSREVIEW.COM 53 SAR Vol. 19, No. 7

G2 RIP
Pre-cut copper bar stock. From here the copper
will be turned to the desired diameter for
the projectile being made and then multiple
projectiles will be manufactured from each.
Machined/CNC machined projectiles
from solid copper rod or different material
were first seen with LeHigh Defense.
These projectiles seemed extremely effective
but expensive. Then again this is
not target shooting ammo.
The newest, opening their doors late
in 2013, is G2 Research with The RIP
(Radically Invasive Projectile). This is
quite different from anything that has
been done in the past. What truly sets
this projectile apart from the rest is explained
by Chris Nix of G2 Research
“Like LeHigh Defense, the design
has features that are precision machined
from a solid copper bar. These
machined geometries create weaker
cross sections that fail or fracture predictably
under certain loads. Where
we differ is that our machined features
are not just engineered to create weak
points in the structure. Geometry is the
key variable in the concept of this technology.
The trocars and other machined
features play a significant role in barrier
penetration and where the energy is
dissipated. There is a moment in time in
which this piercing action transfers from
one medium to the next with less resistance
thus retaining energy in the form
of velocity. Through hard, semi hard
and soft mediums, the projectile’s performance
is optimized by the result of
how the geometry is presented relative
to its direction of travel. It is evident in
hard barrier testing like sheet metal that
the punctured hole is cleaner and if the
sheet metal is unconstrained you can
observe that it falls over like a domino
instead of being knocked down. What
is happening here is the barrier is being
defeated with less energy loss.
“The 45 degree autoglass test shows
trajectory being retained as a result of
this application of technology. In fact in
the real world the angles of presentation
are quite compounded and variable as
is the resistance at point of impact of
that medium. To better explain in a real
world defense situation a law enforcement
officer may not stand directly in
front of the vehicle that is trying to run
them over especially if given the opportunity
to move. Different makes of
vehicles yield a lottery of curvature and
geometrical differences. If the vector of
shot places the trajectory’s path intersecting
the surface of the windshield
closer to the corners verses the center,
this can make a difference in resistance
SAR Vol. 19, No. 7 54 SEPT. 2015

too. With G2 Research’s design there
is a broader range of angles where the
round maintains trajectory. Your more
conventional projectile shape shows a
higher propensity to glance as its rounded
nose is presented to these types of
obstacles at lesser angles. To incapacitate
the threat you must hit it and under
distress shooting as described shot
placement will be compromised enough.
“The heavy clothing test defined by
the FBI is 4 layers of heavy denim. What
we test for here is that the round will
penetrate this barrier and still perform its
expansion or fracture (depending on the
product) through this medium. During
development we found that our design
would very consistently perform this requirement.
So our team decided to amp
the test up a little to see where we drop
off in performance. The results compared
to other rounds were quite amazing
and it was evident that we were on to
something. The large cavity along with
the other geometries mentioned work
together to prevent clogging that would
otherwise impede its performance. The
results were 12 plus layers. In real world
scenarios it’s not impractical to create
the equivalent of more than 4 layers of
denim especially in colder climates.
A machined projectile on the copper rod which has not been cut off from the
rod. Once the projectile is cut off, the machining of the next one begins. The
process is repeated until all of the copper rod is used up.
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“Once the round has entered soft
tissue targets the geometry is still working
for us. Another difference that exists
between us and some other machined
solid copper projectiles is the cuts along
the axis of the projectile do not go into
the hollow point. An increased rate of
radial pressure built from fluid or tissue
is a result of the reduced deceleration
at impact mentioned earlier. These hydrostatic
forces are contained inside the
cylinder until the hoop strength of the
material fails. When the failure along the
axis occurs it is quite mechanically explosive.
Each petal inside the soft target
will carry its wave of energy after they’ve
fractured and traveled along their predictable
paths. This conical disbursement
of 8 trocars are approximately 60
degrees of included angle. Each of the 8
trocars path along that 60 degree conical
are an approximate radial increment
of 45 degrees. This creates a wave of
energy that is very easy to witness in the
slow motion segments of the gel shots
other than the temporary wound cavity
resulting from these now individual
projectiles energy push. Their shape is
designed to slice through muscle tissue,
arteries and organs with less resistance.
Our 8 petal versus 3 petals increases
the probability of one of those fragments
compromising a vital, thus increasing
odds of incapacitation per shot by a factor
of 2.66. Especially if shot placement
isn’t perfect under a distress real world
self-defense situation.
“We all play by the same rules and
constraints regarding SAAMI specifications
for loading of OAL, diameters and
pressures, materials available, choices
in brass, primer and powder technologies.
1/2 MV^2= Ke
“What this has done is created a
seesaw between Mass and Velocity as
many manufactures have juggled those
two variables to achieve similar results
of the predicate.
“With this new and radical approach
to geometry, G2 Research
has introduced a new variable that allows
the energy to be put more where
it is intended.”
The research and development at
G2 is continuously on-going and geared
for new products. The RIP projectile was
more than a year in development. Manufacturing
starts off with a single copper
bar that is 12 feet long and depending
on the caliber gets 147 to 238 projectiles.
The CNC machine manufactures
a projectile from the end of the copper
bar. Each projectile takes about 20 to
50 seconds to manufacture depending
upon the caliber. That round is cut at the
base, falls in a bucket and the next projectile
is made. The process continues
until the bar is used up.
Outside loading is used. G2 build the
components to adapt their machines to
load the G2 projectiles. G2 has a very
strict quality control and testing policies
in place for anything loaded by their vendors.
G2 outsources brass, powder and
primers. All the ammunition is subjected
to SAAMI specifications. The accuracy
requirement is 2 inches at 25 yards.
These are not designed for target shooting
or match accuracy; they are designed
for an up close protection round.
Currently, G2 offers the RIP projectile in
calibers .380 Auto, 9x19mm, .357 SIG,
.40 cal. and .45 Auto.
Samples of .380 Auto, 9mm, .40 and
.45 Auto were provided to SAR for test
and evaluation. We at SAR do not like
to take anyone’s word for how a product
functions or works, we like to test it ourselves.
There were 4 gel blocks made
up to FMI standards. The gel blocks
were calibrated with a BB fired at 589
feet per second.
The .380 Auto was the first tested.
The gel was calibrated with a single BB
fired at 589 feet per second with a depth
of 3.34 inches. The 62 grain round was
fired in a Ruger LCP with a 2.75 inch
barrel at a muzzle velocity of 1,238 feet
per second. The total cavity length was
4.875 inches. The trocars penetrated at
360° from 2 3/4 to 5 inches as advertised.
The core penetrated 8.75 inches.
The projectile retained 62% of its
weight. This was without a doubt the
most impressive result.
The 9x19mm was next. The gel was
calibrated with a single BB fired at 590
feet per second with a depth of 3.14
inches. The 92 grain round was fired in
a Browning Hi-Power with a 4.75 inch
barrel at a muzzle velocity of 1,347 feet
per second. The total cavity length was
SAR Vol. 19, No. 7 56 SEPT. 2015

7 inches. The trocars penetrated at 360°
from 5 to 7 inches in depth. The core
penetrated 11.125 inches. The projectile
retained 49% of its weight with an average
expansion diameter of .366 inches
with the largest being .373 inches.
Next was the .40 caliber. The gel was
calibrated with a single BB and fired at
578 feet per second with a depth of 3.24
inches. The 115gr round was fired in
a Glock 22 with a 4.49 inch barrel at a
muzzle velocity of 1,164 feet per second.
The total cavity length was 4.75
inches. The trocars penetrated at 360°
from 5 to 6 inches in depth. The core
penetrated 9.5 inches. The projectile retained
45.1% of its weight with an average
expansion diameter of .400 inches.
Lastly was the .45 Auto. The gel was
calibrated with a single BB and fired at
576 feet per second with a depth of 2.97
inches. The 158 grain projectile was
fired in a Springfield Armory M1911A1
with a 5 inch barrel at a muzzle velocity
of 1,024 feet per second. The total cavity
length was 5.75 inches. The trocars
penetrated at 360° from 5.5 to 8 inches
in depth. The core penetrated 10.75
inches. The projectile retained 52% of
its original weight with the average expansion
diameter of .450 inches.
All rounds fired performed as
G2 Research
.380 Auto 62 Gr. R.I.P.
2.75” Barrel
G2 RIP
In this author’s opinion, the most impressive
of all loads was the .380 Auto load. This
62 grain projectile was fired at a velocity of
1,238 feet per second. Of the initial 62 grain
weight, approximately 62% of the original
weight was retained. The trocar penetration
was from 2 3/4 to 4 3/4 inches in depth and
the projectile core penetrated 8 3/4 inches.
Shown are all of the recovered fragments from the .380 Auto
caliber RIP projectile fired into calibrated ordnance gel.
The 9mm projectile is a 92 grain projectile
fired at a velocity of 1,347 feet per second.
The trocar penetration was 5 1/4 to 8 3/4
inches with the core stopping at 11.12 inches.
G2 Research
9mm 92 Gr. R.I.P.
4.75” Barrel
The G2 RIP ammunition is offered
in .380 Auto, 9mm, .40,
.357 SIG and .45 Auto calibers.
It is also offered in .223 Rem.
and .300 Blackout.
Above: Shown are the recovered 9mm fragments from the 9x19mm caliber RIP
projectile fired from 12 feet into calibrated ordnance gel.
WWW.SMALLARMSREVIEW.COM 57 SAR Vol. 19, No. 7

G2 RIP
advertised. All trocars broke off in a
radial pattern creating multiple wound
channels. Gel is not the end all of testing.
It takes into account the simulation
of soft tissue. It does not take into account
the density of muscle and harder
tissues found in various organs nor
bone. We were limited on gel blocks so
it was not possible to test for the other
variables. Based on the gel testing the
projectile does appear to be extremely
effective. Depending on the caliber there
are 7 to 9 separate wound channels.
This drastically increases the chance
of hitting a vital organ with a single shot
G2 Research
.40 S&W 115 Gr. R.I.P.
4.49” Barrel
The .40 caliber projectile is a 115
grain projectile fired at a velocity
of 1,164 feet per second. The trocar
penetration was 5 to 6 inches
with the core penetrating 9.5
inches in depth.
Above: Shown are the .40 caliber fragments recovered from the .40 caliber RIP projectile
that was fired from 12 feet into calibrated ordnance gel.
and stopping the target as opposed to a
single projectile.
Not unlike Winchester’s Black Talon,
G2 has received bad press for making
an evil devastating projectile.
Chris Nix of G2 continues: “Not official,
but there are two sides of this
coin on the internet. There are people
that make claims that we are the most
destructive ammo ever developed and
we should all burn in hell for creating
such a thing. The other side says that
the ammo is a gimmick round that has
absolutely no power for defensive and
we should burn in hell for our marketing.
The people who actually test the ammo
for themselves realize that we are an incremental
step in the evolution of modern
ammunition and we will continue to
research and develop its evolution.
“We believe that at this stage many
people are trying new forms of defense
with lead free projectiles and so far no
one has created a round that we would
be scared to carry in our own guns. We
believe our round is more efficient in
certain aspects of its life cycle and in the
arena of self-defense, any advantage is
a good advantage.”
Another line of ammunition recently
introduced by G2 is their VIP (Visually
Indicated Projectile) based on
cold tracer technology.
According to Chris Nix, “Our VIP
uses a cold tracer technology that nullifies
the incendiary and toxic qualities of
the common tracer using a proprietary
technology affixed to the back of the
projectile. The particular light glow of
the powder we use in the round lights
the back of the projectile much like the
glow in the dark stickers that we are all
familiar with. Our Cold Tracer is meant
for low light conditions where the trace
could help to quicker get on target in
a panic situation or as a training round
that the instructor can see. Unlike, traditional
tracers the vector of light emitted
from the VIP is axial to the projectile,
which means the light is coming off the
tail end. This makes the illumination only
visible from an approximated 15 degree
included angle from the shooter’s point
of view. No one outside that field of view
can see the light trail therefore not compromising
the shooter’s position.”
As of this writing the VIP is only available
in 9mm but soon to be introduced in
.45 Auto. Due to the cold tracer technology,
the VIP round is safe to use indoors
and will not set a fire to a dry range.
G2 also offers rifle ammunition in
both super and subsonic .300 Blackout
as well as .223 Rem. The Trident is a
precision CNC machined, lead free,
solid copper projectile engineered to expand
to nearly 3 times its original diameter
while maintaining almost 100% of
its initial weight. Each Trident projectile
is engineered to expand in a predetermined
velocity range. As an example, a
competing .30 cal. 150 grain projectile
will expand at velocities in excess of
2,600 fps when fired from a .308 rifle,
but when the same 150 grain projectile
is used in a .300 blackout, the performance
is less than ideal. Since each
projectile is individually machined, G2
can tailor the performance to the specific
application. While some companies take
SAR Vol. 19, No. 7 58 SEPT. 2015

a bigger is always better approach, the
Trident rounds are optimized for expansion
as well as penetration to provide the
optimum in energy transfer. Additionally,
the Trident round only expands when it
contacts tissue, so it is suppressor safe.
While the Trident round was specifically
designed for hunting, it is equally effective
as a self-defense round. The Trident
will penetrate clothing and heavy denim
and expand as designed on soft targets,
yet still retain its mass as it punches
through solid barriers such as drywall,
sheet metal and auto glass.
The RIP, VIP and Trident lines of
ammunition are certainly a new take
on ammunition mating high-tech manufacturing
to projectiles. With a MSRP
ranging from $49.99 to $59.99, you will
not be target shooting with it. This will
go in the magazine of your personal
defense handgun or rifle. Only time will
tell how effective this is on an assailant.
But from a concept, execution and
testing it appears as this will take its
place alongside other well established
personal defense rounds.
G2 Research
.45 ACP 158 Gr. R.I.P.
5” Barrel
Left: The .45 caliber projectile weighs
158 grains and fired at a velocity of
1,024 feet per second. The trocar penetration
was 5 1/2 to 8 1/2 inches. The
core penetrated 10.75 inches.
Below: Shown are the recovered .45
Auto caliber fragments recovered from
a .45 Auto caliber RIP projectile that
was fired from 12 feet into calibrated
ordnance gel.
WWW.SMALLARMSREVIEW.COM 59 SAR Vol. 19, No. 7

SAR Vol. 19, No. 7 60 SEPT. 2015

By Robert G. Segel
In preparing research for this article it was found that
there was no consistent consensus on the actual proper
name of this weapon among the many sources utilized –
both in English and in Japanese. A good part of that may
be as simple as how the Japanese word or words were
translated into English, the time period or era in which it is
discussed or the emblematic usage of a nick-name. This
gun is known by many names: Type 11, T-11, Taishō 11,
Nambu Type 11, Nambu Taishō 11 and Model 1922; with
Type 11 and Taishō 11 being the most encountered. For
consistency purposes the name used throughout this article
will be Type 11 as that is what it is commonly known
as and accepted in the broadest of terms.
History
At the turn of the twentieth century, the Japanese military,
like most of the rest of the world, was unsure of the
effectiveness of machine guns and what they meant and
how they were to be used on the battlefield, whether offensively
or defensively and how they would, or would not,
affect the outcome of engagements. They had no modern
firearms strategies and relied on foreign designed guns
to test, evaluate and use. The leading candidates of the
time were the water-cooled short recoil Maxim gun and
the air-cooled gas operated French Hotchkiss gun. The
Japanese ultimately chose the Hotchkiss Model 1901 gun
as they felt that even though the Hotchkiss used 24-round
feed strips, being air cooled and lighter in weight provided
them with a mobility advantage without the reliance
of always being near a water source. Thus it was the
combat knowledge gained in the Russo-Japanese war
of 1904-1905 where the Japanese used the Hotchkiss
Model 1901 heavy machine guns versus the Russian
Maxims that convinced the Japanese of the usefulness
of machine guns; particularly in providing covering fire for
advancing infantry.
Later, as World War I raged all across Europe in 1914,
Japanese military attachés made direct observations
of the battles and combat tactics, which ultimately reinforced
their estimations of the use of automatic weapons
in warfare. Wanting to expand its sphere of influence in
Front cover of the German magazine Die Sirene (The Siren) dated February
1935 with an accompanying picture, “Machine gun protects a Japanese Regiment
of the Guards. World powers struggle for the Pacific.” The Japanese soldier
is posing for the picture as his feed hopper housing is empty. Note the metal
ammo box for carrying cartridge clips beneath the gun.
WWW.SMALLARMSREVIEW.COM 61 SAR Vol. 19, No. 7

Right side view of the Japanese Type 11 light
machine gun with canvas sling.
the Far East, Japan sided with the Allies
and declared war on Germany in August
1914, quickly occupying German-leased
territories in China’s Shandong Province
and the Mariana, Caroline and Marshall
islands in the Pacific. While the rest of
the world was focused on the European
battleground, Japan continued to
expand and consolidate its position in
China and expand control over German
holdings in Manchuria and Inner
Mongolia. World War I permitted Japan
to expand its influence in Asia and its
territorial holding in the Pacific while the
Imperial Japanese Navy, seized Germany’s
Micronesian colonies.
It was in 1914 that Japan started
production, under license, of the Taishō
3 heavy machine gun based upon the
design of the French Hotchkiss Model
1914 as their heavy machine gun in
6.5x50mm Arisaka ammunition. Beyond
that, they recognized the value
of a lightweight, man-portable weapon
such as they saw with the Lewis gun
as a huge advantage for infantry on the
offensive. After the hostilities ended in
Europe, the Japanese Army Technical
Bureau was charged with the development
of a lightweight machine gun that
could be easily transported and used by
one man in the infantry squad resulting
in the Type 11 in 1922. Gaining combat
experience in Japan’s growing sphere
The feed housing is located on the left side of the feedway and
is shown with ammo clips in the hopper. The oil reservoir is seen
directly on top of the receiver of the feedway and the rear sight
offset to the right. The kanji (Japanese symbols) along the top of
the receiver are read from top to bottom and read “11 Year Type.”
SAR Vol. 19, No. 7 62 SEPT. 2015

of influence in Manchuria and northern
China confirmed Japan’s effectiveness
of providing automatic covering fire for
advancing infantry troops.
The first light machine gun to be
manufactured in large quantities in Japan
was the Type 11 light machine gun
and when accepted was “Typed” in
commemoration after the 11th year of
the reign of Emperor Taishō, or 1922.
The gun was a highly modified design
by the famous Japanese arms designer
General (then Colonel) Kijirō Nambu,
based on the French Hotchkiss Mle
1909 light machine gun. Retaining the
cooling fins on the barrel and the collapsible
attached bipod, instead of using
the typical Hotchkiss feed strip design,
he developed a hopper feed housing
design holding 30 rounds to feed the
weapon. He also completely redesigned
the bolt and locking system. His design
also meant that the bolt violently extracted
the spent cartridge casing requiring
an oiler system to oil the cartridges prior
to chambering. This oil reservoir had to
be located immediately over the center
of the feedway causing the sights to
be offset to the right. He then radically
changed the shoulder stock configuration
to be offset to the right to be ergonomically
beneficial because the sights
Viewed from the top, the unique
shape of the Type 11 can be seen.
The feed housing hopper is hanging
off the left side of the receiver in
front of the feedway with the sights
offset to the right of the receiver.
The stock is offset to the right to ergonomically
align the soldier to line
up with the offset sights.
were offset. The Type 11 saw active
service in the Imperial Japanese Army
from 1922 through to the end of World
War II in 1945. It was the oldest Japanese
light machine gun design to see
service in the Pacific War in World War
II even though it was superseded by the
Type 96 light machine gun (6.5x50mm
Arisaka) in 1936 and then the Type 99
light machine gun (7.7x58mm) in 1939.
Both those guns resembled the 1920’s
design of the Czech ZB 26 being gas
operated with a top feed magazine and
bipod mount, but the Japanese guns
were completely different internally.
Type 11 (1922) 6.5mm Light
Machine Gun
The Type 11 was the standard equipment
in the Imperial Japanese Army
infantry squad. It is gas-operated, aircooled,
and hopper fed and full automatic
only. Like many Japanese automatic
weapons, its design stems from the
French Hotchkiss system, but the method
of feed, consisting of a removable
feed housing hopper attached to the
left side of the receiver in line with the
feedway and charged with clips of cartridges,
is unique. The hopper holds six
five-round stripper clips; or thirty rounds
in all. The five-round clips are stacked
lying flat above the receiver, secured
by a strong spring arm follower, and
the rounds stripped from the lowest clip
one at a time, with the empty clip thrown
clear and the next clip automatically falling
into place as the gun was fired.
The hopper can be refilled while attached
and does not require removal
during operation and can be replenished
at any time. The inherent and obvious
disadvantage of this hopper system
was that the open feeder box was
susceptible to dirt, dust, grime and mud
entering the gun. That, along with poor
dimensional tolerances, made the gun
prone to operational jams. Additionally,
Left side of the Japanese Type 11 light machine gun.
Note the extended bipod legs and the unique feed housing
hopper just in front of the bolt slide (cocking handle).
WWW.SMALLARMSREVIEW.COM 63 SAR Vol. 19, No. 7

Above: Detail of the packing order of the 24 5-round stripper clips (120 rounds) in the metal ammunition box carried along with
the Type 11 light machine gun. (Courtesy Rick Scovel collection)
Below: Japanese soldier in winter gear in China with Type 26 pistol and Type 11 light machine gun. Note the metal ammunition
box beneath the gun.
it was practically impossible to reload
the weapon during an assault charge
due to the clip feeding system and the
strong spring arm follower holding the
cartridge strips in place. A soldier literally
needed three hands to reload the
weapon while advancing
The ammunition is loaded with
5-rounds in a stripper clip with 1,440
rounds to the wooden box. A small cardboard
package contains 3 stripper clips
(15 rounds). A small steel ammunition
box to be carried with the gun has capacity
for 24 clips (120 rounds)
Another unique and easily identifiable
aspect of the Type 11 is the ‘bent’
buttstock to the right. The trigger housing
extends behind the trigger with a very
narrow metal wrist that then expands
into a wide wooden buttstock. This entire
assembly is offset to the right. Since
the cartridge oiler is located along the
top of the receiver along the centerline
axis, the sights have to be offset to the
right. The idea being that the stock was
also offset to the right to align with the
offset sights. (Though offset sights are
not unusual in guns designed with a
magazine feed on the top of the receiver
like a ZB or Bren gun, whose stocks are
not offset, apparently in 1922, Colonel
Nambu thought it mattered.) Another
(weak) theory that surfaces on occasion
hypothesized that due to the weight of
thirty cartridges loaded in the hopper
that hangs from the left side of the gun,
to counteract that weight imbalance, the
stock was offset to the right.
Overall, identifying the Type 11 may
be easily observed by the unique feed
hopper, the cartridge oiler located on
top of the receiver, the cutout thin wrist
section of the wide wood shoulder stock
that is offset to the right, the front and
rear sights being offset to the right and
the markings, which are on top of the receiver
and reads Juichinen Shiki meaning
“11th Year Type.”
The weapon has a bipod fixed permanently
to the gun near the muzzle
SAR Vol. 19, No. 7 64 SEPT. 2015

that can be folded rearward back along
the gas tube and barrel when in transport.
It can also be fired from the model
M1922 folding tripod mount, which
is carried by the gun squad for use as
desired. When the mount is used the
bipod is folded back along the barrel.
This mount has both a traversing and
elevating mechanism. When the gun
is to be used against aircraft, the legs
are extended and the tripod raised to
its maximum height, which places the
gun about four feet from the ground.
The elevating device is then unfastened
so that the gun will have free
traverse and elevation.
Operation
A safety lever located on the left of
the trigger guard is shifted downward
until approximately vertical for “safe.”
In this position its lower end engages
a small notch in the side of the trigger
guard and cannot easily be displaced.
For “fire,” the safety lever is rotated
backward and upward until it points horizontally
to the rear.
The safety lever is attached to the
end of a pin, part of which is cut away.
When the safety lever is set at “safe,”
the solid portion of the pin obstructs the
trigger, whereas when it is set on “fire,”
the cutaway allows the trigger to operate
freely and to depress the sear.
Before firing, one must be sure that
the oil in the oil reservoir is adequately
filled. As the rounds are fed into the gun,
they work against an oil pump. This allows
a small amount of oil to come down
on the cartridge, thus oiling the rounds
as they are fed into the gun. The ammunition
is oiled as this gun does not have
a slow initial extraction to prevent ruptured
cartridges.
The rate of fire is regulated by means
of a gas regulator with several openings
of different sizes for the passage of gas
through the regulator until it strikes the
gas piston. The gas cylinder has five
holes of different sizes and is numbered
10 – 15 – 18 – 20 – 28, the small number
being the small hole. These holes regulate
the force with which the bolt recoils.
Adjustments are made to ‘smooth out’
the action of the gun so that only enough
gas is utilized to force the recoiling parts
to the rear smoothly and without their
striking the buffer with excessive force.
After initial regulation, changes are necessary
only when the gun becomes excessively
fouled and dirty, so that more
force is required to drive the parts rearward.
If the bolt recoils too fast, a smaller
hole should be used. If the bolt recoil
is slow, sluggish or insufficient, a larger
hole should be used.
The ammunition hopper must be
filled and is accomplished by raising the
follower and placing six five-round clips
in the hopper. The follower is then lowered
on the cartridges. As the follower
is under spring tension it holds the cartridges
down against the feed mechanism
in the bottom of the hopper.
Cock the gun by pulling back the
bolt slide (operating handle) on the left
Top: The extremely rare, seldom seen and hardly ever
used folding tripod for the Type 11. (Japan Arms & Ammunition
Catalogue A, Taihei Kumiai, Marunouchi,
Tokyo, Japan)
Center: The folding tripod with legs extended half way for
firing from a sitting position. (Japan Arms & Ammunition
Catalogue A, Taihei Kumiai, Marunouchi, Tokyo, Japan)
Bottom: The legs of the folding tripod are fully extended
for use as an anti-aircraft platform. Not that the traverse
and elevation mechanism has been detached to
allow freedom of movement for traverse and elevation.
(Japan Arms & Ammunition Catalogue A, Taihei Kumiai,
Marunouchi, Tokyo, Japan)
WWW.SMALLARMSREVIEW.COM 65 SAR Vol. 19, No. 7

until the projection on the piston engages
the sear notch. Push the operating
handle forward until its catch clips into
the receiver. The gun is now cocked and
ready to be fired.
As the bolt is pulled to the rear the
operating slide cams the feed slide to
the right. As the feed rack plunger is
against a shoulder of the feed housing, it
causes the feed rack, due to a diagonal
cut in the feed slide, to be cammed up
until the feed rack plunger (which also
raises), comes to a cut-away portion of
the feed housing. During this movement
the feed racks raise and engage the
cartridge in the lower clip. As the feed
rack plunger has raised to the cut-away
portion of the feed housing it allows the
feed and stripping racks to move in with
the feed slide, stripping a round from the
lower clip and placing it in front of the
holding pawl. At the same time the feed
rack plunger is cammed in and comes
out in another slot.
As the bolt comes forward and pushes
the round into the chamber, the feed
slide is cammed out. As the feed rack
plunger is in another slot the feed racks
are held, due to the diagonal cut in the
feed slide. The racks are cammed down
until the feed rack plunger is cammed in.
During this action the feeding and stripping
racks have dropped down below
the level of the cartridge. After the feed
rack plunger has been cammed in, the
feeding and stripping racks move out
with the feed slide until they reach their
outmost position; at that time the feed
rack plunger comes out into the first slot
and the cycle is repeated. After the cartridge
has been stripped from the clip,
the clip is ejected out the rear bottom of
the hopper by the clip ejector.
The holding pawl is holding the first
round of ammunition in line with the
chamber. As the trigger is pulled it causes
the sear to move down, disengaging
the sear from the operating slide. The
operating slide, bolt lock and bolt travel
forward under the pressure of the compressed
recoil spring, the bolt chambering
a round. After the bolt has reached
its forward position, the operating slide
continues to move forward. As it travels
forward it cams the bolt lock down behind
the locking lugs on the side of the
receiver, locking the breech. As the operating
slide continues to move forward,
a portion of the operating slide strikes
the firing pin, driving it forward, striking
the primer and firing the gun.
As the projectile passes the port in
the barrel the gases pass down through
the port and into the gas cylinder, giving
the gas piston a push to the rear. As
the gas piston is made on the forward
end of the operating slide, the slide also
moves to the rear. The first one-half inch
of movement cams the bolt lock up, unlocking
the bolt. During this movement
the bolt lock cams the firing pin back
from the face of the bolt. After the bolt is
unlocked the operating slide, bolt lock,
bolt and empty cartridge case, which is
held to the face of the bolt by the extractor,
recoil. When these parts have
recoiled a sufficient distance, the rear of
the bolt strikes the ejector, pushing out
on the rear end of the ejector, causing
the front end to pivot in knocking the
empty cartridge out through the ejection
port opening. The operating slide, bolt
lock and bolt continue on to the rear,
compressing the recoil spring until the
bolt strikes the buffer fork, thus absorbing
the remainder of the recoil force.
The front and rear sights are of necessity
offset to the right to prevent obstruction
of sighting by the oil reservoir.
To set the rear sight, press the knurled
catch on the left side of the rear-sight
slide, move the slide to the desired
range, and release the catch. The rear
sight is in increments ranging from 300
to 1,500 meters. There is no means for
windage adjustment.
To unload the weapon, pull back on
the knurled feed-housing lock on the
feed-house assembly, where it projects
out of the lower center of the right side
of the feedway, and remove the entire
feed-housing hopper assembly to the
SAR Vol. 19, No. 7 66 SEPT. 2015

Accessories for the Type 11 include: 1) Bulk ammunition carry bag with shoulder strap designed to hold a total of 150 rounds of
Japanese 6.5mm in 30 loaded 5-round stripper clips; 2) Type 11 waist pouch and leather waist belt (normally a Type 11 gunner
wore a pair of these pouches in front with a standard infantryman’s rear ammunition pouch at the rear; 3) Steel ammunition box
that holds a total of 120 rounds in 24 5-round stripper clips; 4) Small sized (12” x 16” x 1/4” thick) armor shield (Japanese LMGs
were sometimes issued with these shields, which were made in two sizes, small and large (14” x 20” x 1/4” thick); 5) Canvas
draw string sleeve for spare barrel; 6) Original set of Type 11 manuals, one having 102 pages of just text and the other having
22 fold-out detail images of the gun and all its parts; 7) Flip-up muzzle cap; 8) Canvas and leather lined transport cover for
the gun; 9) Leather LMG sling with Type 11 style quick disconnect clips at both ends; 10) Type 11 maintenance kit with canvas
waist pouch; and 11) canvas pouch with waist belt straps for carrying the ammunition feed housing when transporting the gun.
(Courtesy Rick Scovel collection)
left. Remove the live ammunition from
the feed well of the feed-housing hopper
assembly and replace the feed-housing
assembly in place on the gun. Do not attempt
to unload the gun by working live
rounds through the gun, because it fires
from an open bolt and will fire when the
bolt closes and locks.
Disassembly
Always make sure the weapon is unloaded
by visually checking the hopper
magazine, feed-housing assembly and
the chamber.
Taking care that the backplate does
not fly out under spring tension, remove
the backplate pin by releasing the catch,
turning it down to a vertical position,
and puling it out. Remove the backplate
group and operating spring.
Pull the bolt slide (cocking handle) to
the rear and remove the operating slide,
the bolt, and the bolt lock. Line up the
lugs on the bolt slide with the opening
on the side of the receiver and remove
the bolt slide to the left. Lift the bolt and
bolt lock from the operating slide. Slide
the firing pin from the rear of the bolt
and remove the bolt lock from the bolt
by sliding off the top of the bolt. Lift up
on the front of the extractor spring and
rotate it to the left ninety degrees, and
remove from the bolt. The extractor will
now lift off of the bolt.
To remove the feed housing from the
receiver, pull the feed housing lock, on
the front right side of the receiver, to the
rear. Slide the feed housing to the left,
removing it from the receiver. Note that
the feed housing can be removed in the
same manner when the gun is assembled
and the bolt is in battery position.
To further strip the feed mechanism,
raise up on the feed slide lock on the
rear left side of the feed housing. Slide
the feed mechanism to the left, removing
it from the feed housing. Slide the
WWW.SMALLARMSREVIEW.COM 67 SAR Vol. 19, No. 7

stripping and feeding rack to the left and lift up on
the stripping rack, separating the two pieces. Press
in on the feed rack plunger and lift up on the feed
rack, removing it from the feed rack. Extreme care
should be used in removing the follower spring.
Remove the follower stop, which is located to the
rear of the follower pivot. Then raise the follower
up, holding the front of the feed housing against
a table or some other object to catch the follower
plunger and spring. The follower can then be removed
by aligning the lugs on the follower pivot
with the cut-away portion of the follower bearing
on the feed housing. The holding pawl should not
be removed except in case of breakage. It is then
drifted out to the left.
The oiler assembly is removed by pressing
down on the oiler lock, which is located directly in
front of the rear sight, and sliding the oiler assembly
to the left, removing it from the receiver.
The trigger housing and stock can be removed
from the receiver by using a drift to drive out the
trigger-housing split pin from right to left. This pin
is located between the trigger housing and receiver,
directly behind the trigger. By pulling the trigger,
the trigger housing together with the shoulder stock
can now be removed by sliding it off to the rear of
the receiver. To further strip the trigger housing, rotate
the safety down, raising up on the end of the
safety at the same time, and continue rotation until
it is in the forward position, then pull out, removing
the safety from the trigger housing. Drift the trigger
pin out, removing the trigger, sear and sear spring.
The barrel jacket can be detached by removing
the barrel jacket lock retainer plate, which is located
on the left rear part of the gas piston tube, by
drifting to the front of the weapon. The barrel jacket
lock retainer can be removed and the barrel jacket
lock drifted to the front of the gun, removing it. The
barrel jacket will now unscrew from the receiver,
right hand threads.
Unscrew the gas cylinder from the front of the
gas piston tube. Slide the gas piston tube to the
rear about one inch and remove from the bottom of
the barrel jacket. The barrel is pressed into the barrel
jacket and cannot be replaced without having
access to a press.
The ejector is located on the left top corner
of the receiver and is removed by removing the
ejector pin. The bolt locks are located under a
plate and are pressed into the receiver, on the
right and left side of the receiver, directly behind
the feed opening.
Accessories
The Type 11 light machine gun was intended for
both infantry and cavalry use. Among the accesso-
Right: Operating cycle of the feeding mechanism of
the type 11. (The Machine Gun, Vol. IV, Parts X and
XI. Bureau of Ordnance, U.S. Navy, compiled by Lt.
Col. George Chinn)
Opposite Page Top: The feed housing disassembled
into its component parts.
Right: Type 11 disassembled.
SAR Vol. 19, No. 7 68 SEPT. 2015

ies of this weapon are manuals, a small
armor shield, foldable tripod, waist ammunition
pouch, spare barrel, spare barrel
cover, spare feed-housing (hopper)
pouch, bulk ammunition sacks, muzzle
cap, canvas and leather transport case,
spare parts and tools maintenance kit
and steel ammunition box containing
24 five-round strips for a total of 120
rounds. There were also special pack
and saddle outfits for use by the cavalry.
Conclusion
The Japanese Type 11 (1922) light
machine gun was an early attempt at a
single man-portable automatic weapon
following in the footsteps of the Lewis
gun, Chauchat and Hotchkiss Portative.
Using the French Hotchkiss as a
starting point, tweaking the operating
system and adding a unique feed mechanism
and a bent buttstock, Colonel Kijirō
Nambu made his mark on this early
design. Though light and man-portable,
its unique feed system was a central
cause of its problems in various sandy
or muddy environments that Japan
fought in and having to oil the cartridges
prior to chambering was a big drawback
both operationally and logistically.
Nevertheless, the gun, when properly
maintained, was accurate and reliable
and provided the cover for advancing
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Above: From a Japanese
manual, the Type 11 showing
internal parts placement.
Above: Manufacturing nomenclature for the Type 11 is located on the right side of the
receiver. The five symbols and numbers on the Type 11 shown here represent, from
left to right, the identifying mark for the Hitachi Heiki manufacturing plant. The next
symbol represents the current reign of the Showa, manufactured in the 14th year of the
Showa Reign (1939) in the month of September (9) and, finally, the four intertwined circles,
(which actually characterize stacked cannon balls viewed from the top) represents
the Kokura Army Arsenal. So this reads as made by Hitachi Heiki in September of the
Showa year 14 under the supervision of the Kokura Army Arsenal. Note the oil reservoir
can be seen directly above the ejection port in line with the feedway. Also observed
just above the receiver is the externally mounted ejector arm that rocks up and
down as the gun cycles.
infantry that it was designed for and saw
extensive use in Manchuria and China
prior to World War II. Although in the
1930s, in skirmishes with the Chinese,
the Japanese army realized that their
awkward, hopper-fed Type 11 was inferior
to the Czech ZB machine guns used
by the Chinese and set about to create
a similar type of weapon that became
the Type 96 and Type 99. With approximately
29,000 Type 11s manufactured
from 1922 to 1941, and superseded by
the likes of the Type 96 and Type 99 light
machine guns, it was never declared obsolete
and fought alongside the newer
types throughout the entire Pacific Campaign
right up to the end of the war. It
is believed that four or five companies
manufactured the Type 11. Initial production
began at the Nagoya Army Arsenal
and the Kokura Army Arsenal. TG&E
(Tokyo Gas and Electric) produced the
Type 11 until production was taken over
by the Hitachi Manufacturing Company
in 1939. It is possible that the Hoten Arsenal
in Manchuria also produced the
gun in quantity.
Like many Hotchkiss designs, the
Type 11 feels clumsy except when actually
fired as its forward center of gravity
becomes an advantage. And, since so
many of the Hotchkiss designs used
feed strips, it was felt the hopper design
eliminated snagging problems. Though
not a bad idea, it did not meet practical
expectations in the field.
SAR Vol. 19, No. 7 70 SEPT. 2015

Above Right: The 15-round (three strips
of five rounds each) ammunition cartons
were specially marked with a G inside a
circle on the ammo packaging label to
identify the reduced and reformulated
loads. The markings within the hexagon
read as follows from the top: Line 1: DAN-
YAKU-HO “Loaded Cartridges”; Line 2:
ICHI-ICHI-SHIKI-KEI-KI-JŪ “Type 11
Light Machine Gun”; Line 3: The star with
the circle inside is the symbol of the 1st
Tokyo Army Arsenal; Line 4: SHŌWA-
JU-YO-NEN-SAN-GATSU-CHŌ-SEI
“Showa 14 year 3 month (1939 March)
loaded powder” (Powder loaded March
1939); Line 5: YAKU-ITA-ICHI-YON • NI-
GATSU-SAN-SAN ROKU GŌ “Powder
Ita(bashi) 14.2 - Month 336 Lot (Powder
from the Itabashi (Gun Powder Factory
of the 1st Tokyo Army Arsenal) 14.2
moth (1939, February) – 336th Lot”: Line
6: JŪ-GO-HATSU “Fifteen Rounds”. The
characters in red on the right hand side,
read vertically, denote the optimal temperature
operating range of the ammunition
(60-80 degrees). (Courtesy Rick
Scovel collection)
Almost every single reference publication refers to a reduced charge rifle cartridge
for the Type 11 as it would not function properly with the standard-charge rifle
ammunition and, because of reliability problems, muzzle velocity and thus cartridge
impulse were reduced. This reduced-charge ammunition contains about 2 grams of
propellant instead of the 2.15 grams that was the standard charge for rifle ammunition.
This ammunition was denoted on cardboard packaging with a Roman letter “G”
inside a circle. As translated from a Japanese ammunition manual during the war by
MacArthur’s intelligence unit (MID) in 1943, they erroneously thought the “G” stood
for the Japanese word “gensou” – or “reduced.” But why would the Japanese use an
English letter and was cartridge performance actually reduced?
Thanks to the research efforts of leading Japanese arms authorities Edwin Libby,
Robert Naess, and others, the real story can now be explained. In the intelligence
report of ’43 they claim the Type 3 HMG, Type 38 HMG, Type 11 LMG and Type 96
LMG all used the “G” round from the introduction of each of these MGs. This was
wrong in that the Type 3 and Type 38 could not have used the “G” rounds as it had
not been developed yet.
The Japanese were concerned with the amount of smoke and flash of their early
rounds and in the 1930s developed double nitro based propellants – nitrocellulose
combined with nitroglycerine – to reduce smoke and flash. Analysis of rounds in the
packets marked with the “G” revealed the use of a double nitro powder. The diamond
shaped flake powder in the cases was made including the use of very refined chips
of cedar wood that held a solvent of glycerin and then mixed with graphite. This
double nitro charge was slightly heavier than the single base that was used previously
and resulted in a slightly smaller charge in the cartridge case by approximately
1.5 grains. The reduction in the powder charge was not understood by the MID
and theorized the reduction was to reduce muzzle velocity to ease firing impulse in
the weapons. This was, in fact, wrong. Though the cartridge had a slightly reduced
powder volume due to its reformulation, muzzle velocity and impulse did not change
as has been widely speculated and reported. It reduced muzzle flash and visible
powder signature.
So why the English letter “G”? The Japanese used four types of powders in their
rifle cartridges and each type was designated with an English letter. Note that a
Japanese Kanji symbol was not used. The “G” on the packets of the double nitro
cartridges stood for the Japanese use of their anglicized word for “glycerin” which
described the additive in the powder in those specific cartridges in the packets. That
the MID in ’43 erroneously believed the “G” stood for the Japanese word “gensou”
or “reduced” has dogged the actual truth ever since. However, if that were the case,
an English letter would not have been used and a common Kanji symbol would have
been printed on the packets to specify the composition of the powder in the rounds.
The “G” stands for a technical word, not a common Kanji word.
(Thanks to Bob Naess for providing the excellent information and explanation
concerning the Japanese “G” labeled cartridge used herein.)
WWW.SMALLARMSREVIEW.COM 71 SAR Vol. 19, No. 7

The naming and numbering of modern Japanese
weapons generally relates to the Emperor at
the time of acceptance. There were basically two
systems in use; both of which had reference to the
year of the gun’s introduction. The first system referred
to the year of the reign of the Emperor at
the time of introduction. On July 30, 1912, the Meiji
Emperor died and Crown Prince Yoshihito became
the new emperor of Japan and succeeded to the
throne becoming Emperor Taishō, beginning the
Taishō period. Type 11 refers to the eleventh year
of the Taishō era, or in the western calendar, 1922.
Emperor Taishō died in 1926 and Hirohito becomes
the Showa Emperor. Thus, a Type 14 Nambu
pistol showing a manufacturing date as Showa
15 was made in the Western year 1940 – the 15th
year of the Showa reign.
However, just to confuse the issue, another third
method was simultaneously used during World War
II that did not refer to an emperor’s reign. Again using
a Type number, it sometimes represented the
last two digits of the Japanese Jimmu Year which,
by Western terms, began in 660 BC. For example,
the Type 92 heavy machine gun, that does
not have a qualifying era name such as Taishō or
Showa, represents the year 2592 (or 1932 on the
Gregorian calendar).
Above: Japanese infantryman on station in China.
Note the Type 14 pistol holster, the metal ammunition
box beneath the gun and the feed housing hopper appears
to be loaded as the follower is in a high position.
Weight of gun: 1.5 lbs.
Length of gun: 43.5 inches
Length of barrel: 19 inches
Caliber: 6.5mm (.256 in.)
Ammunition: Model 38 (1905) semi rimmed,
reduced-charge cartridges in 5-round clips
Rifling: 4 lands, right hand twist
Sights:
Front: Inverted V blade with guards, offset to right
Rear: Leaf with open V notch sliding on ramp, graduated
from 300 to 1,500 meters, offset to
right; no windage adjustment
Operation: Gas-operated, full automatic only
Type of feed: Hopper
Hopper capacity: 30 rounds in six stripper clips
Cyclic rate of fire: 5-600 rounds per minute
Effective rate of fire: 150 rounds per minute.
Production: Approx. 29,000 (1922-1941)
Manufacturer: Nagoya Army Arsenal, Kokura Army Arsenal,
Tokyo Gas and Electric (TG&E), Hitachi Heiki
and possibly Hoten Arsenal in Manchuria.
Below Left: A young Japanese soldier marches in China with full field pack and
Type 11 light machine gun. The cherry blossom branch he carries has great
cultural meaning and holds many spiritual beliefs. It is interpreted as ‘transient
of life’ as they are so fragile and because the cherry blossom tree has short
blooming periods. Additionally, it is believed that cherry blossoms were the souls
of Samurai warriors who lost their lives in battle.
SAR Vol. 19, No. 7 72 SEPT. 2015

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Japanese Type 11 Light Machine Gun
Maintenance Wallet
The rare and seldom encountered tool and spare parts wallet is made
of brown cowhide leather that folds in half and is secured by a single
leather strap attached by a nickeled steel buckle. The wallet is carried in
a canvas waist pouch that attaches to a waist belt.
The contents of the tool and spare parts wallet are as follows:
1. Brown cowhide leather wallet with stitched in loops and tool holders.
2. White metal cartridge case remover with claw end.
3. Punches (2), one 0.077 in. (2 mm) and one 0.188 in. (4.5 mm).
4. Ruptured case extractor tool.
5. Unidentified tool (not in manual).
6. Standard folding type screwdriver.
7. Gas regulator adjustment tool. One end is to remove, install and adjust
the gas cylinder. The other end is to extract a broken firing pin.
8. Scraper attached to end of cleaning rod segment.
9. Cleaning bore rods (2).
10. Operating spring. 16 3/4 in. long x .38 in.
11. Brass drift or cheater bar.
12. Brass hammer with 2 oz. head with wood handle.
13. Spare parts can (tinned steel). The can is 6 in. long (15.24 cm) and
1 in. (25.4 mm) wide. Note that the can is made up of two sections
indicated by a raised rib that can be seen on the outer tube with a
steel disk in the interior at the point of the rib that provides a partition.
The left hand side of the container as shown here is 4 3/4 in.
long (12.065 cm) and the right hand side is 1 1/4 in. long (3.175 cm).
The following list of items numbered 16-18 fit in the long left hand
side of the tube and items numbered 19-28 fit in the smaller right
hand side of the tube.
14. Screw cap for left side of spare parts can.
15. Screw cap for right side of spare parts can.
16. Firing pins (2).
17. Extractor springs (3).
18. Bolt spring.
19. Extractors (3).
20. Threaded brass tube for attaching to bore rods to attach cleaning jag.
It is 1 in. (26 mm) long and 0.23 in. (6 mm) in diameter with different
internal threads on each end: 0.12 in. (3.2 mm) one side, 0.144 in.
(3.6 mm) on opposite end.
21. Feed rack plunger.
22. Feed housing follower stop.
23. Coil spring 29 x 9.5 mm (trigger sear spring)
24. Coil Spring 14 x 7.5 mm (back plate buffer spring)
25. Coil Spring 8 x 3 mm (gas regulator adjustment spring)
26. Coil Spring 15 x 4.4 mm (feed rack plunger spring)
27. Coil Spring 20 x 4.3 mm (undetermined)
28. Coil Spring 28 x 4.4mm (oil reservoir applicator spring)
1
8
9
2
5
7
SAR Vol. 19, No. 7 74 SEPT. 2015

10
11
3
14
12
13
15
4
6
16
19
20
21
25
22
17
24
26
27
23
18
28
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SAR Vol. 19, No. 7 76 SEPT. 2015

BATTLE RIFLE COMPANY’S
BR4 ODIN RIFLE
By Chris A. Choat
Battle Rifle Company (BRC) is a
Texas based company that specializes
in manufacturing quality built AR
based rifle platforms. They have been
in business for about five years and
started out just building 5.56 guns.
They later evolved into taking the next
logical step by building .308 rifles. This
year, at the SHOT Show, they were
showing the new pistol version of their
.308 rifle as well as their new AR-15
9mm pistol called the Attache. In fact,
they make 5.56 and .308 pistols as
well and they also carry the Attache
model designation.
BRC offers nine different variations
of their 5.56 caliber guns designated the
BR4. They run the gamut from 14.5 to
20 inch guns with varying types of different
accessories. The firearm tested
herein is their BR4 Odin rifle. This rifle
is a carbine style gun with a 14.5 inch
barrel and a 2 inch permanently attached
muzzle brake making it a legal
16 inch length. The BR4 Odin is a joint
project between Battle Rifle Company
and Odin Works, as a premium carbine
in their line of rifles. The base model
BR4 rifle is a direct gas impingement
operated carbine with all of the features
of a standard AR-15 carbine. The Odin
model has quite a few added features
that set this gun apart from others of its
Battle Rifle Company’s BR-4 Odin is a
lightweight, fast handling rifle with all the
tricks of the trade for the role of a 3-gun
competition rifle, a fast firing varmint hunting
gun or just as a versatile recreational
plinker. It is well put together with the best
parts available and runs perfectly.
WWW.SMALLARMSREVIEW.COM 77 SAR Vol. 19, No. 7

kind. The rifle has a 14.5 inch barrel with
one of Battle Rifle Company’s Disintegrator
Flash suppressor permanently
attached. This flash suppressor is advertised
as having the ability to reduce
98% of the muzzle flash and it works as
advertised. The barrel is cryogenically
treated for the ultimate in accuracy.
The gun has a mid-length gas system
covered with Odin Works’ 12.5 inch
K-Mod forearm. This forearm is made
to VLTOR Weapons Systems KeyMod
specification from 600T651 aluminum. It
is a free-float forearm with a continuous
uninterrupted Picatinny rail across the
top. It has KeyMod slots at 3, 6 and 9
o’clock for adding lights, lasers or other
accessories. The top rail matches up
perfectly with the rail on the upper receiver.
The forearm is light (10.15 ounces)
and very sleek being engineered
to allow for a low profile gas block to fit
inside. With an outside diameter of just
1.8 inches it is very comfortable to hold
onto. The forearm comes with one five
slot accessory rail installed.
Sights are included installed on the
Odin rifle and are MagPul MBUS folding
sights. Other MagPul accessories
include their Extended Trigger Guard as
well as their B.A.D. bolt release lever.
You can also order the rifle with several
different buttstock options including any
of MagPul’s outstanding stocks.
The test rifle came with a Hogue
Overmolded Collapsible Buttstock. This
was the first time that this author had
used one of these stocks and came
away very impressed. The Hogue stock
features reinforced polymer construction
with a built-in rubber cheek piece
and a rubber/polymer hybrid butt pad
that provides snag-free shouldering.
The design of the stock creates a snug
anti-rattle friction fit on the buffer tube.
The stock is available for both Mil-Spec
and commercial buffer tubes. The test rifle
came with a Mil-Spec tube. The stock
also has multiple sling mounting slots as
well as several quick attach sling mounting
sockets. The stocks are available in
black, tan and OD green. An Ergo pistol
grip concluded the list of furniture.
The fire control parts on the rifle are
the standard AR-15 type except that the
trigger and hammer in the test gun had
been nickel boron coated. Nickel boron
has a natural lubricity that gave the
test gun a very smooth trigger pull. The
gun’s charging handle was equipped
with an extended tactical latch to
make charging the weapon easier with
an optic mounted.
For an optic the author chose to
mount one of the new Bushnell AR/223
scopes. The scope used was a 1X4 24
mm power scope with a 30mm tube. It
features their Drop Zone-223 bullet drop
compensating reticle designed especially
for the 5.56 cartridge. The AR Optics
riflescopes are available in 6 configurations
for every AR platform rifle from .22
rimfire to long range .223. The reticle
features a center crosshair with a row of
4 aiming dots on the bottom crosshair.
These dots are placed to coincide with
ranges from 200 through 500 yards. So
simply zero the scope at 100 with the
center crosshair and then use the dots
at all ranges out to 500 yards. The scope
also features target turrets with 0.1 mil
click adjustments. The scope offers the
best in CQB as well as long range accuracy.
The scope would make an excellent
choice to use in 3-gun matches,
which the Odin rifle seems made for.
The rifle comes with a single MagPul
30-round Pmag but will naturally take
any Mil-Spec AR-15 magazine. The
Left: Battle Rifle equips their BR-4 Odin with their Disintegrator flash suppressor
that works exceptionally well.
Above Right: The rifle is loaded with most of the user-wanted features and
accessories right out of the box. It comes with MagPul sights, an Ergo pistol
grip, a tactical charging handle, a MagPul B.A.D bolt release lever and extended
trigger guard.
Right: The BR-4 Odin is equipped with the Odin Works 12.5 inch lightweight
K-Mod quad-rail forearm. The quad-rail offers a full length rail across its top
as well as KeyMod slots at 3, 6 and 9 o’clock for the mounting of optics or accessories.
The test rifle was equipped with a 5-slot section of Picatinny rail on
the front of the bottom KeyMod but rail sections of any size can be mounted in
multiple locations as the shooter prefers.
SAR Vol. 19, No. 7 78 SEPT. 2015

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author used the Pmag as well as two
of the new Elite Tactical Systems (ETS)
magazines that were also received for
testing. The new magazines are available
in 10-, 15- or 30-round capacities
and are made from smoked translucent
polymer. One of the most unique
features of the new magazines is that
they can be had either with or without
a built-in coupling system. The couplers
are molded right into the magazines and
only make the magazines about 1/8th
of an inch wider allowing them to still fit
into standard AR-15 magazine pouches.
The magazines can be coupled by
simply turning them 90 degrees to each
other and then rotating them a 1/4 turn
to lock them together. They remain firmly
locked until the magazine tops are
squeezed together and then they can
be rotated to unlock them. The connectors
allow any number of magazines to
be coupled together. The magazines
are marked 5.56 x 45 as well as 7.62 x
35 because they work equally well with
.300 Blackout. The new magazines use
stainless steel springs and come with
clip-on dust covers that can be instantly
detached with the shooter’s thumb. Elite
Tactical Systems has also just come out
with what they call their R.R.S. (Rapid
Recognition System). These are their
excellent anti-tilt magazine followers
and base plate inserts molded in
BR-4 Odin rifles can be ordered
with just about any buttstock that
the shooter prefers. The test rifle
came with a Hogue Overmolded
Collapsible Buttstock. The stock
features several sling options and
mounting positions, fits both Mil-
Spec and commercial tubes and
had an excellent fit and feel.
different colors so that the user can color
code his followers and base plates
to different calibers or even different
bullet types. Where the magazines
are translucent you can even see the
follower at any angle even when the
mags are loaded.
The rifle was tested in a variety of
3-gun scenarios as well as some varmint
hunting sessions. A gun like the
Odin seems to be at home competing
in 3-gun matches where the gun weight
and reliability come first. The gun proved
fully capable of performing 3-gun match
requirements. Its lightweight and reliability
were second to none. The rifle was
fired 200 plus rounds on the first outing
and never had so much as a hiccup. It
was fed only quality ammunition and it
just ran and ran. It was also used on a
couple of varmint hunting expeditions
where it had to be carried for long periods.
Night time coyote hunting proved
that the manufacturer’s claim of 98%
flash reduction was indeed accurate.
The rifle’s light weight was a welcome
relief after going through a phase where
it seemed to be that the latest craze was
to hang as much stuff as possible on a
rifle. Shooting this lightweight fast-handling
rifle was a pleasure. In the accuracy
department the gun proved to be a
winner as well. From the bench, the rifle
SAR Vol. 19, No. 7 80 SEPT. 2015

would print groups inside an inch all day long. It
also scored a 100% on its reliability test having
fed and ejected all ammunition that it was fed.
The Bushnell proved to be an excellent optic for
this rifle whether it was used as a games gun
or in a hunting role. Probably the addition of an
offset red dot optic would be perfect for those
distances under 100 yards. Other than that this
author wouldn’t change a thing.
Battle Rifle Company has proved to this author
that they make an excellent product. The
great thing about them is that they are a small
enough company that customer service is one
of their main goals. You can call them up and
tell them what you want and they will build it just
as you request. You won’t be disappointed with
a Battle Rifle Company gun.
Battle Rifle Company
1056 Hercules Avenue
Houston, TX 77058
(281) 777-0316
www.battleriflecompany.com
By just flexing the tops of connected
magazines and rotating them they
can be uncoupled instantly.
Bushnell Outdoor Products
9200 Cody
Overland Park, KS 66214
(800) 423-3537
www.bushnell.com
Elite Tactical Systems Group LLC
P.O. Box 18511
Knoxville, TN 37928
(855) 887-5452
www.etsgroup.us
The BR-4 Odin comes with a set of Mag-
Pul MBUS front and rear sights. The author
chose to add one of Bushnell’s new AR/223
scopes. This new optic features their new
Drop Zone-223 bullet-drop compensating
reticle designed especially for the 5.56 cartridge.
The scope is ideal for competition as
well as long range shooting.
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SAR Vol. 19, No. 7 82 SEPT. 2015

No Small Collection
By Peter Suciu
It isn’t hard to find a firearms museum that has
something special, but what sets the Rock Island Arsenal
Museum apart from other military and firearms
museums is that it in itself is truly very special. Located
at the Rock Island Arsenal in Illinois, the museum occupies
the room in Building 60 that once housed Shop
B where the Model 1903 Springfield receiver was produced
during the First World War.
The Rock Island Arsenal
Museum truly has
walls of small arms.
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Today the museum is home to one
of the finest collections of small arms
in North America, and moreover it is
the second oldest U.S. Army Museum
in the United States after the West
Point Museum. Established on July
4, 1905, the museum has only been
closed twice – during World War I and
World War II to provide more space
for the manufacturing facilities. Today
the museum’s collection now includes
some 12,000 items in total; with nearly
70 percent of the museum’s firearms
on permanent display.
The only downside to displaying a
collection of this size is that it isn’t presented
in any chronological order, nor is
it broken down by nation or even weapon
type. Instead the collection features
vintage black powder long guns on the
wall with modern MAC 10s.
“We’d like to reorganize the collection
but it is impossible at the present
time,” said Kris Gayman Leinicke, director
of the Rock Island Arsenal Museum.
“With so many firearms there is simply
no way to take everything down and reorganize
it without closing the museum
for days or weeks.”
The irony in this is that the museum
had fairly humble beginnings when
110 years ago Chief of Ordnance
Above Left: An M14 EBR-RI Rifle,
which was modified by TACOM LC-
MC-RI at the Rock Island Arsenal
on May 5, 2010 from a standard
M14 rifle.
Above Right: A Browning 1919A1
.30 caliber machine gun (bottom)
along with other World War II era
small arms including a Browning
Automatic Rifle (BAR) and two M1
Garand rifles (top).
Right: An M65 Atomic Cannon,
which was built during the Cold
War and was capable of firing a
nuclear device.
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Major General William Crozier supplied
15 boxes of ordnance and small arms
with the intent to preserve it as a military
museum at the Rock Island Arsenal.
From those 15 boxes the collection has
grown and greatly expanded. Today the
collection of small arms is displayed on
nearly two full walls with firearms dating
back to the American Revolution and
continuing to the modern day.
The oldest piece in the collection
is believed to be a “wall gun” that features
a 1 3/16-inch bore diameter. It is
believed this firearm was made between
1775 and 1780 at the Rappahannock
Forge in Falmouth, Virginia. It is also
one of just five of these wall guns known
to exist – the museum also has one other
not on display in its collection.
Special attention is paid to the firearms
that were produced at the Rock
Island Arsenal and this includes a Model
1903 Springfield with serial number
1. While this rifle was designed and
produced by the Springfield Armory
this example is one of the first 18,000
rifles produced as the rod-bayonet
type. Under the orders of then President
Theodore Roosevelt on January
4, 1905 the production of this model
was halted and a new knife-bayonet
version was produced.
According to the museum’s records
this example has the serial number 1,
and was likely fabricated on December
20, 1904 but has the stock dated as
1905 and marked “CN/1905.” This cartouche
actually indicates that the rifle
was inspected in the fiscal year 1905.
It has been in the museum’s collection
ever since it passed this inspection.
From the very old to the new the museum
also has on display a very rare example
of the General Officers M15 Pistol,
which was designed at the Rodman
Laboratories at the Rock Island Arsenal.
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Only 1,004 of these were produced on
the island from 1972 to 1974 and these
were designed to replace the Colt “Model
M” .32 and .380 caliber “pocket pistols”
that had been issued to General
Officers since 1941.
These pistols were all rebuilt Model
1911A1 pistols that were produced by
the same armorers at the Rock Island
Arsenal, but featured a shortened barrel
and slide, distinctive horizontal grooves
on the back grip and checkering on the
front grip strap.
The collection also includes several
M1919 .30 caliber Browning machine
guns. The Rock Island Arsenal
produced these beginning in 1938 with
the M1919A4 air cooled confirmation
being the most common model to pass
through the armories and production
continued throughout World War II.
Another item developed at the Arsenal
was the “Brunton Bump,” that was
designed to allow left-handed shooters
to fire an M16/M4 without having the
shell casing fly across the shooters’
face. It was designed by Loren H. Brunton
of the small arms branch at the Rock
Island Arsenal, and he even holds two
patents for the design of this unique and
very necessary feature.
American Small Arms
The Rock Island Arsenal Museum is
of course devoted to the history of American
small arms. Housed in its collection
are some truly unique pieces and these
include three of the only known examples
of the Pederson Device, which was
developed during the First World War to
convert the Model 1903 rifle from a bolt
action into a semiautomatic rifle.
Variations of the M16 are on
display at the museum.
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Above: Israeli Uzis and German H&K variations make up some of the international
firepower at the Rock Island Arsenal Museum.
Right: A collection of Thompson submachine guns are grouped with the far more
modern MAC 10/11 submachine guns and M4 assault rifles.
Known officially as the “Automatic
Pistol, Caliber .30 Model of 1918” in an
attempt to keep the design and manufacture
a secret, it utilized a special
40-round magazine that held the .30
caliber pistol cartridge. The rifle had to
be slightly modified to use the Pederson
Device and was re-designated as the
Model 1903 Mark I.
“These are the holy grail for our collection,”
said Eric Kramer, public affairs
director for the Rock Island Arsenal. “I
know of only three others that are in private
collections but we are fortunate to
have three in our collection.”
The Rock Island Arsenal Museum
also features several notable prototypes
including a Model 1919 submachine
gun that was built by the Auto-Ordnance
Corporation in 1919. The example, serial
number 6, is one of just a handful of
known examples of the prototypes of the
SAR Vol. 19, No. 7 88 SEPT. 2015

firearm that would go on to become the
Thompson submachine gun.
While Eugene Stoner’s AR-15, later
the M16, was not designed or produced
at the Rock Island Arsenal the museum
does have several notable pieces in its
collection, which showcase the development
and evolution of this firearm from
the 1960s to the modern M4 versions.
The collection also features numerous
versions of the M79 grenade launcher
and examples of the MAC 10/11; but
a visitor favorite remains a gold plated
M60 machine gun that marked the end
of the firearm’s production run. It is
made of unserviceable parts and thus is
one of the firearms in the collection that
couldn’t actually fire, and attempts to
remove it from permanent display have
created a problem. “People keep asking
to see the ‘gold gun,” said Leinicke.
International Weapons
The collection is not limited to American
firepower – and the museum has
several notable pieces on display including
a mid-19th century Japanese matchlock
to several variations of the British
Sten gun. Among the standout pieces
of international firearms are those that
were developed by America’s enemies
and rivals in the 20th century.
These include several examples of
German firearms from both World Wars
including variations of the MP-18/I and
MP-28/II as well as the MP40, MG34
and MG42 machine guns. The most

Above: Three examples of the notorious M3 “Grease Gun,” the stamped steel submachine
gun that was introduced during the Second World War as a cost-saving measure.
Right: A Korean War M1 carbine with the infrared night vision scope.
impressive standouts in the German
collection is that the museum features
three versions of the FG42 (Fallschirmjägergewehr
42 or “paratrooper rifle 42”),
which was one of the most advanced
small arm designs of the Second World
War. Only some 6,000 of these were
produced during the war and three are
now in the museum’s collection.
In addition to the FG42 the museum
also has three MP44/StG44 “Sturmgewehr”
examples in the collection.
These were the first true “assault rifles”
developed and had a major impact on
modern infantry small arms development.
While it has been argued that the
AK47 was not a copy of the StG44 – the
weapons have different mechanisms – it
is true that the Soviets closely examined
the thousands of captured weapons and
these likely did play a role in Soviet Cold
War small arms development.
The Rock Island Arsenal has several
SAR Vol. 19, No. 7 90 SEPT. 2015

notable examples of these Soviet weapons
including AK47 variations, but also
other small arms including the PPSh41,
DP28 and SKS.
With so many firearms it is hard
to take in everything on one visit, but
even to Leinicke it is really more than
just a museum. “This is really a library
of small arms as much as it is just a
really good museum.”
Beyond the Museum
The museum is just one small component
of the Rock Island Arsenal – the
946 acre island located on the Mississippi
River. In fact the history of the government
presence here goes back to
1816 with the construction of Fort Armstrong,
which was one of the first western
frontier defenses that were erected
by the U.S. Army after the War of 1812.
The Island later served as a prisoner of
war camp during the American Civil War.
Today the island is the final resting place
for some 2,000 Confederate prisoners.
Since the 1880s, the Rock Island
Arsenal, which is largest government-owned
weapons manufacturing
armory in the country, has produced various
military equipment and ordnance
including the M198 and M119 towed
howitzers, as well as the Anglo-American
Liberty Mark VIII tanks that were
manufactured just after the First World
War. Unfortunately none of these first
American-made tanks has survived to
the modern day, but the Rock Island
Arsenal does have several other large
pieces on display at the Memorial Field.
In total 31 ordnance systems are on
permanent display and these include
an M119 howitzer, M51 anti-aircraft gun,
an M50 anti-tank gun and even an M65
Atomic Cannon. This is the islands way
of showing off its “big guns.”
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SAR Vol. 19, No. 7 92 SEPT. 2015

S ARound Answer
Key on page 96

SAR Vol. 19, No. 7 94 SEPT. 2015

WWW.SMALLARMSREVIEW.COM 95 SAR Vol. 19, No. 7

Congratulations to
Raymond Pawlicki!
He correctly identified
the weapon associated
with this manual:
Answer:
Romanian PSL
Raymond will receive a 1-yr FREE Subscription to
Small Arms Review Magazine!
SAR Vol. 19, No. 7 SEPT. 2015
96
CROSSWORD
ANSWER KEY
ADVERTISER’S
INDEX
AmericanSnipers.org 73
Black Hills Ammunition 66
Chipotle Publishing, LLC 12
Chipotle Publishing, LLC 89
Chipotle Publishing, LLC 15
Dealernfa, Inc. 37
Dillon Precision Products, Inc. 31
DoubleStar Corp 87
DRD Tactical 2
Elite Survival Systems 55
Elzetta Design, LLC 56
G2 Research 45
Gemtech 100
Gun Mountain, LLC 92
James D. Julia Inc. 84
K-9 Cop Magazine 95
Langlotz Patent Works Inc. 29
Lewis Machine & Tool Co. 5
Magna Matic Corporation 58
Nightforce USA 49
NRA 91
Ohio Ordnance Works 3
POF USA 4
Police K-9 13
RDTS Mfg - Red Dog Target Supply 30
Rock Island Auction Co 99
SAR West 82
Small Arms Defense Journal 94
Small Arms Review 90
smallarmsreview.com 98
Spyderco, Inc. 85
SSK Industries 88
The Shooter's Book 80
Thompson Machine 44
Trijicon Inc. 59
Vigilant Security Services 72

EMMAGEEMAN’S CORNER
MACHINE GUN MEMORABILIA
BY ROBERT G. SEGEL
Japanese proficiency breast badge 1st
class for the Type 11 light machine gun with
crossed Type 11 guns to the center. Hook
and latch back.
Japanese sake pourer (tokkuri). This Imperial
Japanese army commemorative
sake bottle is simple in its form with commemorating
kanji, Army star, Japanese
flag and Type 11 light machine gun among
cherry blossoms (representing the souls
of Samurai warriors who died in battle).
Imperial Japanese Army shooting
award. Two rising sun motifs
are on either side at the top. The
center is a gold army star over
crossed Arisaka rifle and Type
11 light machine gun with a laurel
wreath. The large gold kanji beneath
the weapons reads “Prize.”
The reverse reads “Showa 10
(1935) Special Shooting, Infantry
10th Regiment, 1st Battalion.)
Medal measures 3x2.5 cm.
China Incident Medal. Rare medal
from Imperial Japanese Army with
crossed Arisaka rifle and Type
11 light machine gun and helmet
superimposed on an ancient Japanese
shield. To the left are cherry
blossoms, a symbol of Japan
and the warrior’s spirit, and on the
right is a laurel branch, a symbol
of victory. The kanji inscription
above the weapons read, “China
Incident Commemoration.” The
reverse reads, “Army Private 1st
Class Watanabe.”
Japanese sake cup serving tray (obon).
Lacquered (urushi) World War II Japanese
machine gunner’s commemorative sake cup
tray. Black with silver image of a pine tree for
long life, Army star and Type 11 light machine
gun. The reverse has name in kanji “Kikugawa.”
8.25x8 inches.
Blue edging with gold rim Japanese
commemorative sake cup with
gold kanji commemoration, Army
star and type 11 light machine gun
above hand painted pink cherry
(sakura) blossoms.
MG MEMORABILIA
97
SAR Vol. 19, No. 7