PMCI - February 2017

FEB 2017
CONTENTS
4 TRAINING: WHEN LIVES MATTER: WE SPEAK TO DARK ANGEL MEDICAL
ABOUT THEIR LATEST DEVELOPMENTS
8 BOOK REVIEW: “BETWEEN FLESH AND STEEL”
10 TRAINING: GETTING ON TARGET: THE MANTISX TRAINING SYSTEM; A
WHOLE NEW PARADIGM IN FIREARMS TRAINING
15 EDITORS COMMENT: LOOKING FORWARD, NOT BACK
16 GEAR ON TEST: THE PMCI TEAM MAKE THEIR RECOMMENDATIONS ON THE
LATEST GEAR TO HIT THE MARKET.
22 TACTICAL INNOVATION: LONG TERM TEST: ONE YEAR ON AND TRAMPAS
BRINGS HIS REPORT ON FIRST TACTICAL GEAR IN TO LAND!
26 TECH: BATTLE BELTS: ANDY GETS TO GRIPS WITH WHAT MAKES A GREAT
LOAD BEARING SOLUTION
30 SHOT SHOW 2017; THE PMCI TAKE NEW DIRECTIONS FROM THE SHOOTING
AND TACTICAL WORLD AS SEEN BY THE TEAM IN LAS VEGAS!
34 KNIVES AND TOOLS: SOG: PMCI GIVES THE LOWDOWN ON NEW DIRECTIONS
FROM THE US MANUFACTURER
38 FIREARMS: STI INTERNATIONAL: GETTING BEHIND THE SCENES AND ON
THE RANGE WITH A GREAT HANDGUN BUILDER
42 ARMOURER: LUMASHARK! :LIGHT UP THE NIGHT WITH THIS INNOVATIVE
RAIL SYSTEM FROM HARDENED ARMS!
46 SKILLS AND DRILLS: ANDY BRINGS US FURTHER CONSIDERATIONS IN PART
II OF HIS LOOK INTO THE ARCANE ART OF CONCEALED CARRY
50 SPECIAL REPORT: A SOLDIERS BURDEN: FOR THIS ISSUE WE’RE JOINED BY
GUEST CONTRIBUTOR PETER WITH HIS THOUGHTS ON THE LOADS CARRIED BY
THE SOLDIER OVER THE YEARS.
53 BOOK REVIEW: “SELLING WAR; A CRITICAL LOOK AT THE MILITARY’S PR MACHINE”
54 INDUSTRY VACANCIES: LOOKING FOR WORK? JUST CHECK HERE.
Copyright © Calibre Publishing 2014. All rights are reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval
system or transmitted in any form or by any means electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise without the express
permission of the publisher in writing. The opinion of the writers do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher. The Editors
reserve the right to edit submissions prior to publication.
Thank you for downloading this Edition of PMCI, the FREE digital publication dedicated to PMC Operatives. PMCI is written by
individuals with first hand knowledge and experience of the subject they write about - people like Col. Gerry Schumacher (USSF
Ret.), author Simon Chambers and ex-TL Dan E, all of whom have an intimate understanding of what the role entails and the day
to day challenges faced by PMCs.
Editor (UK): Bill Thomas
Editor (International): Dan Eastes
Graphic Design: Baz Thakur
Publisher: Nigel Streeter
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2

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PMCI: So Ross, in your own words please tell me what
led to the setup of Dark Angel Medical, and who are the key
people involved?
The owner of Dark Angel Medical, Kerry Davis saw a need
for medicine and medically trained people within the firearms
industry; the old adage is that if one knows how to make holes
they should also know how to plug them! Kerry’s vision was
to equip as many shooters as possible with the knowledge
and skills to save a life, potentially their own, should the very
worst happen. Medicine and medical skills had traditionally
only been left to “professionals” and completely disregarded by
the general populace and Kerry, along with his wife Lynn have
worked tirelessly to change that perception.
PMCI: When and where did Dark Angel Medical start
running courses?
Kerry has been taking care of people more than half of his
adult life. He joined the USAF in 1991 and served until 2007
with jobs consisting of ER Medic, Flight Medic and Officer
Training School Instructor. He was able to attend U.S. Army
Airborne School at Ft. Benning, GA due to his job description
while stationed as a flight medic at Pope Field in Ft. Bragg, NC.
He worked as a civilian paramedic while he was completing
his course of study as an RN and worked as a critical care and
emergency room RN for over 10 years. He is an avid shooter and
has instructed with Magpul Dynamics and is currently a partpmcimagazine.com
TRAINING: DARK ANGEL
TRAINING:
DARK ANGEL MEDICAL
At PMCI we are always interested in looking at unique training courses and programmes that will
let serving personnel or those leaving the military hone certain areas of their skill-set and enhance
their CV. Recently I was lucky enough to speak to Ross from Dark Angel Medical in the USA to find
out what they’re all about.
As we’ve stated many times before medical skills
are very close to our heart at PMCI and we’re
always honoured to meet like-minded people
who offer training in relation to what can be vital
yet perishable skills. In our minds correct and
thorough first aid/medical training should be
high on the list of “must have skills”, but unless
that training is carried out in a simulated “stress
situation” even the best taught can lose the plot.
It’s all very well being able to deal with a
casualty situation in a quiet environment, and many will lose it
a bit even then, especially if it’s s serious trauma injury that they
come up against. It takes professionalism and nerve to quickly
assess a situation in a hostile environment and deal with it
effectively, and that only comes through thorough and regular
training with expert practitioners.
Regular readers of PMCI may recall the slightly “tongue in
cheek” section, “Head to Head” that appeared in earlier issues;
Richard, a UK based contractor contributed to that and it was
through him that I discovered Dark Angel Medical in the USA.
Dark Angel Medical not only provide some top of the line First
Aid Kits and Packages, but also deliver the training to go with
them. Ross is their Primary Medical Trainer and served “in
country” with Richard as team medic; he very kindly agreed to
answer my questions and this is what he had to tell me.
4

time instructor with SIG Sauer Academy where he teaches fireams
classes, as well as “Bullets and Bandages”.
Lynn was commissioned as a 2LT in the USAF after completing
ROTC in 1994. She went on to a career in the Communications field
and was assigned to NORAD and then to Maxwell AFB as a Flight
Training Officer at Officer Training School. After leaving the USAF,
she went to paramedic school and worked as a field paramedic
for several years. Lynn manages the day-to-day operations of
Dark Angel Medical and oversees QA/QI for our products and is
absolutely instrumental in our continued success. She is extremely
passionate about getting life-saving information about our
products and training out to women’s interest groups.
Kerry and Lynn started running Dark Angel medical Courses in
Colorado, USA in 2011.
PMCI: Who do you see as your target customer for your
courses?
We’ve done a good job within the firearms industry as far
as hunters, competition shooters, military and law enforcement
personnel and those who just enjoy shooting for the sport of
it; however the market for the understanding and treatment of
traumatic injuries is limitless. Absolutely everyone should be
equipped with the skills of how to stop massive bleeding, and
how to keep a person calm and stable until the professional help
can arrive. We certainly do market to the “outdoors” type; those
who ride off-road vehicles, camp and hike, and those whose daily
activities may take them far away from help should a situation
arise, although as previously stated everyone can benefit from this
knowledge.
PMCI: Do you train just military and police personnel or
civilians too?
There are no pre-requisites for our Trauma Training Courses
and we welcome all!
PMCI: What exactly do you specialise in?
Our speciality is the equipping of the everyday person to leave
their home armed with the knowledge and skills to potentially
save a life.
PMCI: What are the key pieces of gear that Dark Angel
Medical create?
We provide Trauma medical Kits in a variety of sizes and
configurations, from those close to wallet size up to large,
comprehensive kits capable of handling multiple victims and
everything in between.
For instance, in our “Adventure” line we have the Adventure
And Recreation Kit (AARK) which is a modular kit geared for
those who love the outdoors or who just want to be prepared
for the unexpected. The AARK has you covered from scrapes and
scratches to major trauma to getting a fire started. Designed to fit
into our current D.A.R.K. and D.A.R.K. Slim pouches, the vacuumsealed
insert comes standard with:
• 1 x Minor Aid Pouch (MAP) with various sized bandages
• 1 x Hyfin Compact Vented Chest Seals
• 1 x Nitrile Gloves
• 1 x QuikClot Bleeding Control Dressing 12’
• 1 x H&H Mini Compression Bandage
• 1 x Duct Tape 6’
• 2 x Mylar Blanket
The AARK Accessory kit (standard with each AARK) comes standard
with:
• 1 x SWAT-T
• 1 x 10’ Mil-Spec Paracord
• 1 x Signal Mirror
• 1 x Magnesium Firestarter
• 1 x TripleGage Compass/Thermometer/Magnifier
For military and LE personnel we have a number of kits including
the D.A.R.K. (DIRECT ACTION RESPONSE KIT) Slim; the D.A.R.K.
Slim has everything you need, and nothing you don’t. This kit
was designed with “simplicity under stress” in mind, for when
you need it most. The kit features a side mounted TQ pouch on
the right side that will accommodate either the CAT (standard
offering) or SOFTT-W (substitution), trauma shear retention strap
and PALS channel on the left side, a 2”x3” loop patch on the front
of the pouch for medical identifiers, personal identifiers, etc. and
TRAINING: DARK ANGEL
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6TRAINING: DARK ANGEL
a new attachment system that eliminates snaps. The webbing
is woven through the channels on web gear and “tucked” back
under and tension holds the kit in place. For those who want
to employ the kit on a standard belt, the kit also comes with
detachable belt loops that will fit up to a 2” belt. The pouch is
500D nylon made in the USA and comes in MultiCam, Ranger
Green, Coyote Brown or Black.
Kit Contents include:
• 1 x HALO Seal 1 x Hemostatic Gauze (Quik Clot Bleeding
Control Dressing in Civ kits, Combat Gauze LE in LE/FR kits,
Combat Gauze MIL in Mil kits, ChitoGauze also)
• 1 x NPA (No NPA in Civilian Basic kit)
• 1 x Emergency Bandage
• 1 x NAR Compressed Gauze
• 1 x Pair Nitrile Gloves
• 1 x Mylar Blanket
• 1 x Polycarbonate Eye Shield
• 1 x Ten Tac Med Tips Assessment Card
MIL-SPEC Kit Inserts also Contain the Following:
• 1x TCCC Casualty Documentation Tool
• 1x 14 Gauge ARS Decompression Needle
• QuikClot Combat Gauze MIL
These two kits hopefully give an idea of what we usually include
as standard, but obviously if any potential user has a specific
requirement we’re always happy to discuss that.
PMCI: I know that you run excellent training courses; can you
tell me more about those and what you do there?
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Our Direct Action Response Training (D.A.R.T.) Course is two days
in length. We take students through some history of trauma
medicine as it relates to the current day world, the physiology
and psychology of stress and how it affects the body (for both
victims and rescuers!), basic medical anatomy and physiology,
the assessment of a trauma victim and a multitude of specific
injuries, their treatments, and then hands-on skills to tie
everything all that knowledge together.
Our students are taught through lectures, Powerpoint
presentations, videos and hands-on sessions where they apply
the knowledge they’ve learnt using the actual medical kit
components.
PMCI: Do you offer training in specialised equipment?
At the basic level trauma medicine really requires no specialised
equipment; however, we do introduce students to the “tools of
the trade”. Tourniquets, occlusive chest seals, nasopharyngeal
airways (a small rubber tube inserted into the nose), a variety of
bandages as well as hemostatic (blood clotting) are all covered
in detail.
PMCI: Do you have all the equipment available as part of
your courses?
Absolutely! We of course show the students what comes in
the majority of our own dark Angel Medical kits (students have
the option to add a kit to any course they take with us) and
they get plenty of time to become familiar and train with the
individual components.
PMCI: Where do you see Dark Angel Medical evolving in
the future?
I personally see Dark Angel Medical expanding further into
the “outdoor” market even further! The reality is that no matter
what people do, for business or recreation, there is the potential
for life-threatening trauma to happen and we want people to
know what to do if and when that time comes; we use the
slogan, “Be a By-doer not a Bystander!”
PMCI: If someone reading this article likes the sound of
what you offer, what should be their next step?
Please visit our website, browse the kits we create and have
to offer and watch the videos highlighting exactly what we do.
You can also sign up for a course there and/or use the “CONTACT”
link if you have any further questions!
WEBSITE: WWW.DARKANGELMEDICAL.COM
FACEBOOK: FACEBOOK.COM/DARKANGELMEDICAL
INSTAGRAM: @DARKANGELMEDICAL
EMAIL: INFO@DARKANGELMEDICAL.COM
OFFICE NUMBER: +1 (720) 836-7150 (U.S. MOUNTAIN TIME)
PMCI: Many thanks indeed for your time Ross, and it
was our absolute pleasure to meet you in person. We look
forward to working with Dark Angel Medical again in the
future, and to attending one of your courses ourselves.
TRAINING: DARK ANGEL
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BETWEEN FLESH AND STEEL
BOOK REVIEW Suarez International
Once again in this Issue we have a focus on matters relating
to the very latest products, trends, and training courses in
the world of tactical first aid, but all of these techniques
have come about due to trial, and sometimes sadly, error,
over the years.
Over the last five centuries, the development of modern weapons
and warfare has created an entirely new set of challenges for
practitioners in the field of military medicine. “Between Flesh
and Steel” traces the historical development of military medicine
from the Middle Ages to modern times.
Military historian Richard A. Gabriel focuses on three key
elements: the modifications in warfare and weapons whose
increased killing power radically changed the medical
challenges that battle surgeons faced in dealing with casualties,
advancements in medical techniques that increased the
effectiveness of military medical care, and changes that finally
brought about the establishment of military medical care system
in modern times.
Other topics include the rise of the military surgeon, the
invention of anaesthesia, and the emergence of such critical
disciplines as military psychiatry and bacteriology. The approach
is chronological, century by century and war by war, including
Iraq and Afghanistan, and cross-cultural in that it examines
developments in all of the major armies of the West: British,
French, Russian, German, and American. “Between Flesh and
Steel” is the most comprehensive book on the market about the
evolution of modern military medicine, and gives a true insight
into what has shaped “best practice” as seen today.
Richard A. Gabriel is a distinguished professor in the Department
of History and War Studies at the Royal Military College of Canada
and in the Department of Defence Studies at the Canadian Forces
College in Toronto. He is a former U.S. Army officer and the
author of more than forty books, including Man and Wound in
the Ancient World: A History of Military Medicine from Sumer to
the Fall of Constantinople (Potomac, 2011) and The Madness of
Alexander the Great and the Myth of Military Genius.
Hardcover: 312 pages
Publisher: University of Nebraska Press; 1 edition (1 Jan. 2013)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1612344208
ISBN-13: 978-1612344201
8
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NUREMBERG, GERMANY 3-6.3.2017
hall 9 booth 222
Large carry-all bag designed for bushcraft use – perfect for daytrips.
It has a wide shoulder strap, two zipper secured pockets for smaller items and PALS/MOLLE
compatible side panels with additional sleeves for folding saws, knives or axes.
Features:
YKK ® zipper closure,
One external zippered pocket one internal,
2 internal waterbottle pockets,
Built in sheaths for Knife/axe/saw,
PALS/MOLLE side panels,
Compression straps,
Detachable, adjustable wide carrying strap.

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TRAINING TOOLS: MANTISX
NEXT GENERATION FIREARMS TRAINING
When I visit any of the major shooting and tactical shows I’m always on the lookout for something
that I find truly “game changing” and for this year’s SHOT Show there was one product that stood
out for me. “MantisX” is a relatively new training tool that quite literally puts a top-level shooting
instructor in your pocket!
How often do we rail on about the importance
of regular and thorough training when it
comes to firearms, but for many of us getting
that all important “range time” is not quite
as simple as it sounds. When I lived in the
USA I would shoot handgun at least once,
if not twice, a week at my local range and
take as many courses as I could with highly
experienced instructors at hand. Having
now returned to the UK though my regular
handgun training has been relegated to using either air or
airsoft replicas in order to “keep my hand and eye” in, and
given that there is no handgun culture here it’s very difficult
to find instruction of any kind as handguns fall under the
“Section 5” banner which is restricted pretty much to Mil and LE.
I do travel abroad when it’s feasible and there it is possible
to shoot handgun, but sadly constraints in both finances and
simply time make this a lot rarer an occurrence than I’d like
in an ideal world. Whilst the replica handguns do allow me
to work on my holster work and manipulations, they are in
reality a poor second to the “real deal”. Although there are
numerous highly effective laser training solutions out there
these sadly cost considerable amounts of money and once
again having the space to make proper and full use of them
is an issue; not really an ideal situation when it comes to
training at home and on a really regular basis.
Even with a home training setup though there’s another
element that comes into play; although you may hit a target
with a laser trace or indeed some form of “pellet” projectile
it could be that without the remedial input of an experienced
instructor/mentor you are actually setting possible bad habits
in stone which will undoubtedly affect your competence and
performance when it comes time to “go loud”. I’ve been
searching for a training solution that I could use effectively
and regularly at home, but to date hadn’t found one that I
was comfortable with.
10

That all changed when I encountered MantisX.
The idea for the MantisX was conceived in early 2013 when
Austin Allgaier, the company president, was at lunch and the
group was discussing invention ideas. He thought it would be
great if there was some kind of mobile firearms training system
for the everyday shooter. At the time, all of the training systems
were required complex equipment and were expensive to
purchase.
The motive behind the MantisX is to allow the shooter to
have a coach in their pocket every time they train. We have
enabled the shooter to have the same system for both live fire
and dry practice, one that could be enhanced without additional
purchase, and a system that requires minimal setup. With those
parameters in mind the MantisX was born.
The MantisX has come a long way since the first prototype.
From a PCB that was duct taped to a Glock to the current rail
mounted system the team have learned a lot and made many
improvements. Because the hardware integrates with an app
they are able to constantly update our software to customise
it according to the feedback of real users. They launch new
updates every 6 weeks that are always available to all users.
Since MantisX was launched in December of 2015 the team
has continued to grow to meet the demands of the industry. The
system has been well received by consumers, Law enforcement
agencies, the military, and instructors around the globe. MantisX
is well on its way to become one of the leading training systems
on the market.
Quite simply MantisX is a revolutionary patent-pending
handgun attachment that helps firearms enthusiasts and
professionals train more efficiently. While attached to a handgun,
it analyses every shot and generates actionable data you can
use to improve your shooting mechanics. MantisX detects each
shot you make, analyses the movement of the firearm during
the trigger pull, and assigns a score to each shot that signifies
deviation from the aiming position. Based on the movement
patterns of the firearm, MantisX identifies areas of improvement
and provides coaching that will improve your mechanics, your
score, and your precision. MantisX also keeps track of all your
shooting sessions and generates useful reports that will help
you identify your shooting trends, gauge your progress, and set
adequate improvement goals.
HOW DOES IT WORK?
You can connect the diminutive MantisX unit to the accessory rail
of any firearm, just like you would with any other attachment
like a taclite or a laser, and it works equally well with live fire,
dry fire, airsoft, and CO2/air. There’s a free App to download
which you can install on most smart devices, and once you have
this you simply turn on MantisX, and pair the system with the
phone or device via Bluetooth. Once the unit is paired with the
device it’s a case of taking one shot which acts as your point
of aim/impact from then on; each subsequent trigger pull will
show how far you are deviating from that original point of aim/
impact and show you detailed data of EXACTLY what you are
doing wrong!
Each shot is scored depending on how much you moved
away from your point of aim/impact position during the trigger
pull. The perfect score is 100 (impossible unless the handgun is
locked in a vice!). For each shot, MantisX detects the direction
of the barrel movement during the trigger pull; if you tend to
shoot to the right, the right sector will light up on the on-screen
“wheel” (Pulling Right Screen), just like the military “correction
TRAINING TOOLS: MANTISX
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TRAINING TOOLS: MANTISX
target” of old. After a few shots, the training device shows the
pattern of your movement. Analysing an individual shot or the
group of shots, MantisX provides you with a suggestion as to
what you’re doing wrong (in the case of pulling right it suggests
“Too much trigger finger and Thumbing”) that could improve
your shooting mechanics. If the terminology is not familiar to
you then reading the coaching tips will enable you to focus
your efforts in specific areas in the next round of shooting.
You can basically track the movement of your handgun’s
barrel during the trigger pull. Shots are grouped according to
movement pattern similarity (Screen 1). You can track the score
of each shot individually, which easily allows you to analyse
trends (Screen 2). A detailed trace (Screen 3) will indicate
Green: your hold/sighting, Yellow: trigger pull, and Red: the
shot breaking and recoil pattern.
IN USE, LET’S “GEEK” OUT!
In their own words the guys at MantisX state;
“We’re gun nuts, with some heavy geek seasoning and a deep
passion for our families and our future. Like you, we want to shoot
better. Like you, we recognize that shooting is a perishable skill.
We want more options for effective, efficient training. Like you,
we believe that when performance is measured, performance
improves. Like you, we want to take the guesswork out, and
replace it with cold, hard data. So we made Mantis - for us. And
it turns out that a whole bunch of other people felt the same
way. This is only the beginning for Mantis. We work tirelessly
to improve algorithms, give actionable data, and help shooters
at every skill level - to shoot better.”
Well I have to tell you that this is 100% my kind of
“geekiness”, and the guys also state that “94% of the BETA
TESTERS improved markedly after using MantisX for just 20
minutes” and I can attest to that being the truth; the details
given by the system really focus you on what you are doing
right, what you are doing wrong, and how to rectify the
negatives.
On my first attempt with the system, with an unfamiliar
handgun model and some good old-fashioned nerves about
performing in front of my USA-based peers thrown in I was
pretty abysmal; after I’d had a long, hard talk with myself I
returned and tried again, this time actually taking note of what
the data screens were telling me. This led to a somewhat more
respectable final score of 87.4 out of 100, but I know that with
time and practice using the system I could better this even
further (Robo M, you know what I’m talking about mate…)!
MantisX really offers a new paradigm that is a totally
fresh way of doing things and that has a profound effect on
performance. “New paradigm” draws its roots from the idea of
a paradigm shift in science, in which technology or new findings
completely change the way people think about or interact with
something, and to me MantisX does exactly that in relation
to firearms training. It’s a complex system that actually makes
training far simpler, and given its miniscule size and negligible
weight it’s a tool that you can quite literally use anywhere; as
there’s no projectile to contend with this is even something
I could train with if I had a few spare moments during my
working day in the office, and it fits neatly into my Safariland
Glock/Surefire holster.
Overall MantisX is a truly stand-out product for me, and thus
far everyone that I’ve shown it to has been in total agreement.
Whether you’re a tactical shooter, a competitor, or simply a
dedicated recreational shooter who wants to perform at the
best possible level then this is one bit of training kit that you
will most definitely want!
The MantisX system costs US$149.99; if you’re based in
the UK Land Warrior Firearms in Scotland will soon have stock,
although a final UK price is awaited at the time of writing. For
direct order outside the UK please simply visit http://mantisx.com.
12

EDITORS
COMMENT
From the Heart...
As I come to writing my comment for this issue of PMCI it strikes
me how very privileged we’ve become in the last couple of years;
when I first stepped in to take over the reigns as Editor I had
just one regular contributor in the shape of my good friend and
valued colleague Trampas, and somehow we managed to pull a
couple of issues seemingly out of thin air!
This gave us a little breathing space to be able to speak to
folk out there that were manufacturing some great products or
offering first rate training packages. It also allowed us time to
be able to bring a regular format together which thankfully is
obviously one that you enjoy, as our readership numbers soared
from Issue 4 onwards; it’s humbling to know that PMCI is viewed
and read by the best part of 60,000 of you fine folk each and
every issue now.
As we got onto a roll new contributors have come and gone,
but now Andy and JT have joined us to bolster up the team and
we’re running harder and faster than ever before.
SHOT Show, which we report on fully in this issue, has now
come and gone and what an experience it was for us; I’d like
to personally extend my heartfelt thanks to all the companies
and individuals we met in Las Vegas who extended to hand of
friendship to us. We’ve come away from the show with so many
new contacts which we’ll be following up with for content, and
re-connected with some “comrades in arms” of old.
This leads me onto the real point of my comment this time;
with political and cultural changes it’s all too easy to lose sight
of those that have stood beside you, those that you once shared
a bond so close with. Shared experiences, both good and bad,
forge a bond that can be as strong, if not stronger than family,
and I hold those that I call “brother and sister” very close.
Life however moves on unabated and changes in circumstance
and physical location mean that sometimes we don’t speak
to one another as often as perhaps we should, and given the
stoic nature that many of us have we’re not always the best at
asking for help when things get tough. We need to be mindful
of this, and look for those small signs that one of those closest
to us might be suffering in some way, whether that is financial,
physical, emotional, or psychological.
Those that have faced adversity and danger in life carry the
memories with them forever; yes, we manage things pretty well
most of the time, but it’s that rare moment when our guard comes
down that the bad thoughts can come flooding back. Without
wishing to sound trite, we DO need to be there for one another;
the bond forged is a strong one and should never be forgotten.
If you’re out there and need help there are numerous
professional groups and organisations that can help, but
sometimes the first step is simply speaking to someone you trust.
To all our “brothers and sisters” around the world, thank you
for what you have already given, and for what you may yet give;
thank you for “watching our six” and know that we’ve got yours
when you need it.
EDITORS COMMENT
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GEAR ON TEST
MORANE TACTICAL
AK ASSAULT VEST
With so many options available on the market
in relation to load-bearing solutions we recently
discovered a thoroughly modern take on a venerable
design in the form of the AK Assault Vest courtesy of
Morane Tactical in Belgium.
A long time ago whilst training in a dusty land far,
far away I first used a cracking bit of kit known simply
as the “South African Assault Vest”. The Pattern 83
webbing system was produced to fill a very specific need
in the South African military; in the latter years of the
“bush wars”, the SADF was hunting for a comfortable,
lightweight, and simple to use load bearing system. As
with much of the equipment at the time, private sector
commercial outfitters helped the military design and
produce an effective solution. The resulting “battle jacket”,
heavily influenced by Rhodesian “Fireforce” webbing, is
still in use today by the SANDF.
The original iconic “Nutria Brown” pouches on the vest
were made of a waterproofed Cordura nylon; inside each
there was also a heavy wear resistant coating. The “body”
of the vest was a padded nylon mesh which a allowed
a good deal of breathability while distributing weight
evenly across the shoulders, back, and hips. In total there
were five magazine pouches, each capable of holding
two standard capacity mags (for a grand total of ten).
Although originally intended for R4 (Galil) magazines, the
pockets were large enough to accommodate most battle
rifle magazines.
On the sides of the vest there were two large pouches
intended for canteens. In a pinch they could be used as
dump pouches for empty magazines; smaller pockets
arranged around the water pouches were intended to hold
grenades but worked just as well for storing cleaning kits
and other miscellaneous small gear. The large lower pouch
in the front could fit even more magazines, or could be
used to store bandages and other bulkier items. Finally,
the backpack pouch featured a roomy upper and lower
compartment, with additional straps to secure a bed roll.
Many companies have produced replicas of this classic
vest design, and in truth you can find these online in many
different camouflage patterns for under £40! This seems
tremendous value, but the fact of the matter is that you
get what you pay for, and the cheap imitations can be very
shoddy in construction. It’s an excellent design though, and
very worthy of consideration if you’re on a budget.
TOUGH ENOUGH FOR THE REAL WORLD
Bringing things up to date Karrimor SF took the old, tried
and tested vest design and came up with their Predator
Combat Vest that is primarily for use in dynamic operations
where speed and ease of access are most critical.
16
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It’s a highly adjustable system that can be used with or
without high velocity plates and body armour protection.
PLCE zippers and modular webbing is included on the
insulated padded back pocket to allow use of a side pocket
or modular pouches.
I’ve been searching for a really functional load bearing
system to round out my PenCott GreenZone gear, and a
good friend in one of the user groups I belong to kindly
pointed out to me the AK Patrol Vest being offered by
Morane Tactical; located in Liège, Belgium, Morane Tactical
was founded in 2004 and quickly contracted with Belgian
Defense. Morane Tactical are in charge of the Belgian
customers while Morane Consult are dedicated to official
agencies or export. They work directly with the military
operators, the police community and outdoor enthusiasts,
and have built up a very solid reputation for providing high
quality, fit for purpose gear.
I’ve mentioned the Karrimor SF vest as the AK Patrol
Vest offers a very distinct nod to that design, although the
pouch configuration is AK magazine-specific. As the AK is
my “long” of choice, this vest could have been designed
just for me!
It’s full of features, including two large cargo pouches,
four compass/accessory pouches, two AK magazine
pouches, four smoke grenade pouches, and a medical
pouch; all pouches have mesh drainage. There’s an
insulated hydration pocket on the back, and PLCE side
pockets or modular pouches can be also be easily attached
to further increase versatility. The Vest is size adjustable
for use with or without body armour, has a durable water
repellent (DWR) coating, great internal padding, and is
made with rot-proof thread reinforced with bar-tacks.
All zips used are good quality YKK so this thing really is
bomber-tough throughout.
As I said when I started out, the old South African Vest
was, in its day, a formidable load carrying system and in my
mind it’s superb that someone has updated this using the
very best materials and construction techniques available.
You can carry enough magazines and gear to happily
and comfortably see you through the longest possible
scenario, and combined with a patrol pack this is perfect for
a 24 Hour deployment. Of course the level of components
and fabrics mean that this is not the cheap replica of the
original that you will find online, and prices start at 109.00
€ for plain, block colours; camouflage options are available
but expect to pay 159.00 € for GreenZone, BadLands,
Kryptek, or MultiCam.
Overall I’m extremely happy with AK Assault Vest, and
I’m certain that it will give me many years of service in
the future; I look on this as an investment that will be with
me long after cheaper alternatives have fallen to pieces!
My thanks go to the excellent team at Morane Tactical
who were perfect in relation to communication and offer
superb levels of service; to check out more of what they
offer please go to www.morane-tactical.eu My thanks
go to them for also providing images used in this review
GEAR ON TEST
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GEAR ON TEST
BLUEYE EYEpRO JAGER
Eye protection is one of the most important aspects of
safety no matter what you shoot, and we’re always in
search of new models that offer the highest levels of
performance and protection.
Cheap eye protection is a false economy in virtually
every respect I can think of. Luckily these days we have a
wealth of manufactuerers to choose from when it comes to
protecting those all important “Eyes and Ears”, and testing
for such products is amongst the most stringent out there.
I was therefore very interested when I came across a new
brand, Blueye, and decided to investigate further.
Blueye Eyewear was formed in December 1995 when
Dean Bennell (director and founder) came up with a
new eyewear concept for jockeys in Horse Racing. Whilst
working as a horse trainer in Sydney, Australia, Dean
realised that the goggles jockeys were wearing had not
changed in design or materials since the 1950’s (sounds
a bit like my old mans shooting glasses!)
Dean began designing goggles and the design process
took eight months, during which time he approached
his brother Marc, to see if he would be interested in
becoming a partner in Blueye Eyewear. The partnership
was then formed and in December 1996, twelve months
after conception, Blueye entered the marketplace. Initially,
Blueye concentrated on marketing its product throughout
the horse racing industry, but soon realised that the
goggles also had potential in other sports. An extensive
sunglass range was gradually created, building on the
success of the goggles technology, and along the way,
Blueye picked up awards such as Australian Design of
the Year and Australia’s Powerhouse Museum Award for
Science and Design.
Blueye Tactical Eyewear is a division of Blueye Eyewear
Pty Ltd, and they have been designing, developing and
manufacturing specific purpose eyewear with the emphasis
on supplying elite performance eyewear products. In 2013,
and after four years of development, Blueye released
their first ever specific purpose ballistic eyewear range for
the international military and tactical markets. At Blueye
Tactical Eyewear they strongly believe that for personnel to
perform specific operational tasks they need to be wearing
the correct piece of eye protection.
Whether it is Water Ops, Land, Air or Special Ops tasks,
Blueye Tactical has developed an elite performance
eyewear product for your needs, and all Blueye Goggles
and Sunglasses have gone through rigorous testing to meet
or exceed US Mil-Spec requirements.
• Exceeds U.S. military ballistic impact requirements for
spectacles (MIL-PRF-31013, clause 3.5.1.1)
• High Impact grilamide Frame material
• Interchangeable lens system
• 2.1mm Carl Zeiss precision optics lenses 100% UVA & UVB
• Frame colour matt black
• Included lens colours: (clear and smoke)
• Adjustable nose pad for comfort
• Low profile temples for ear muff compatibility
• Retainer strap included
• Hard Carry Case with included lenses
• RX adaptor available
• Certified ANSI Z87.1-2010 ballistic impact and optical
requirements, Certified EN166, Certified AS/NZS 1337.1
JAGER!
The Jagers are super light stealth Ballistic Sunglasses for
tactical ops. As well as the basic, if you can possibly call it
that, model the Jagers are also available in a Low Profile
design and with High definition lenses.
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My sincere thanks go to Leigh at Blueye UK for providing
the test model, and please be sure to check out www.
tacticalgoggles.co.uk for more information on both the
models themselves and stockist details.
MODI JPC STYLE PLATE CARRIER
We’re pleased to welcome our new kit reviewer “JT” to
the PMCI fold this issue; with a twenty year connection
to the UK military and as a keen recreational and
competitive shooter, we welcome his input to all
things “gear”.
Blueye UK very kindly provided for me to “use and abuse”
the Jagers. I’ve worn a wrap-round style from another
manufacturer for years now, and have actually been
through three pairs of those; the design and profile of
the Jagers is similar, but also a bit more up to date, and
certainly for me the fit is very, very good. They are also
extremely light at just 30g but in no way feel flimsy.
The Glasses I received came in a very nice stiffened hardcase
with a zip closure, and a good deal of foam padding
internally to keep everything in place. They also arrived
with three lenses, clear and smoke, plus High Definition
Orange (you can have them without the High Def is you
so desire); the lenses are easily and swiftly interchanged
by simply removing the cushioned nosepiece, popping a
small retaining catch over the bridge, and simply sliding
one lens out to replace with another. Also included in the
package is a retaining strap and soft lens cloth.
The Jagers are extremely comfortable to wear, even over
extended periods of time, and I’m pleased to report that I
suffered from almost zero fogging, and that’s straight out
of the box! Vents within the top of the lenses allow air
circulation to actively minimise any build-up of moisture.
Now even with the High Definition lens the Jagers retail
for UK£150 which is slightly less than the glasses I’ve worn
historically; however, the safety specifications of the Jagers
also exceed that of my old ones so they are superb value
for money.
Although the range of Goggles and Sunglasses offered
by Blueye UK is a very tight one, I truly believe that they
have some great looking designs that also offer immense
amounts of protection. Whilst they are not the cheapest
eyepro on the market in my opinion they sit exactly where
they should price-wise; indeed, you can’t put a price on
your eyesight, can you?
It seems that no matter what plate carrier/load carrying
equipment that you use, people are always looking for the
“Holy Grail” of kit. Films come and go and various rigs and
camouflage become the latest must haves. Having spent
a lot of time wearing load carrying equipment over the
years both on and away from the range, I’ve had a lot of
opportunity to try out numerous rigs and to date, the Crye
JPC has been my favourite. In fact it is still my go to rig
when heading out to train on the range.
The problem came when instead of my usual Multicam
Crye Precision JPC, I needed a black rig to fit in with the
scenario we were using for a training day. So my hunt for
a black Crye JPC began. Unfortunately this rig was likely to
be worn once or twice then consigned to the back of the
kit cupboard until it was needed again, so I didn’t want
to spend a fortune (Crye JPC’s can run to around £300
including shipping) so I began to look at “JPC style” rigs.
GEAR ON TEST
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LOWA INNOX COMBAT
BOOTS TAN
LOWA and their collection of military & tactical boots are
considered to be some of the best military combat boots
on the market today. LOWA’s Innox tactical boots are
the product of over 90 years of European boot-building
craftsmanship and innovation.
GEAR ON TEST
Most of the makes of JPC style rigs only seem to produce
a carrier that is suited to medium sized SAPI plates, which
is no good for me as I am a big bloke so I needed to find
an extra large vest.
I found the ideal rig when I found that MODI made a
JPC style carrier in the size that I needed. So off went my
order and around 6 days later I had an XL Modi JPC style
plate carrier in my hands. One of the first things I did was
to unpack it to fit some JTac Custom XL 20mm dummy
foam plates, while I waited for the XL SAPI training plates
to arrive, and compare it to my Crye Precision JPC.
Once adjusted to the same positions as my other vest I
put it on. Initial thoughts were that it was very comfortable
and familiar. I could place my magazine holders in exactly
the same places so muscle memory isn’t altered, which is
especially important for training.
Whilst obviously not a Crye JPC it is a close mimic; there
are some obvious differences like the back of the plate
bags are do not have the elastic panels, whereas the
Crye does. The main body of the rig is made of a 500D
Cordura type material so I am quite confident that it will
stand up to the rigours of the range. The fit, comfort and
‘wearability’ of the MODI rig is up there with the Crye JPC
so for those who need to train with weight and prefer to
wear a load carrying rig, this would certainly fit the bill for
a cost effective alternative to wearing your primary rig.
Now the best bit, a Crye JPC costs around £265 (in the
UK) before any shipping costs. The MODI XL JPC can be
found around Hong Kong for as little as US$49.99 plus
shipping (and any import costs). For me personally, if a
MODI JPC lasted a couple of years on the training range
then it would be money well spent. So far, all the stitching
and material is holding up well and it looks like being a
rig which could serve a long time in my training kit.
Armed Forces and private
contractors worldwide rely on
Lowa’s legendary fit, comfort
and durability in the most
rugged of conditions. No
nonsense, hard wearing,
easy-to-maintain and with
all of LOWA’s fantastic
foot technology combined
in a combat boot for the
discerning professional. The
LOWA Innox GORE-TEX mid is
ideal for professional personnel worldwide.
The innovative, lightweight
and multifunctional mid-cut
Innox GTX Mid is suitable for
a wide variety of outdoor
activities from foot patrols,
boot runs, camp use and guard
duty, even in wintry conditions
thanks to the waterproof and
breathable lining. The shaft
shaves weight with its highquality
synthetic materials
and lightweight sole unit; this unit features an aggressive
profile meaning you can be sure-footed in whatever
conditions you might encounter.
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The 1.3mm/1.5mm Microfibre Upper really keeps the
weight of the boots down without compromising overall
durability; they are of slip lasted construction with an very
stable injected LOWA NXT sole, which has an outdoororiented
tread profile and a non-slip design. Support
around the foot and the ankle is first rate, with an upper
height inside/outside of 115/145mm.
No matter what the weather, GORE-TEX footwear
keeps your feet dry and comfortable, providing optimum
climate comfort. All GORE-TEX footwear combines durable
waterproofness with optimised breathability and carries
their GUARANTEED TO KEEP YOU DRY promise. Boots
engineered with GORE-TEX Extended Comfort product
technology are designed for indoor and outdoor use in
moderate and warmer conditions or during higher activity
levels.
They are durably waterproof combined with optimised
breathability, offering enduring weather protection. Water
stays on the outside while perspiration can easily escape
from the inside. Thanks to their non-insulated construction,
they are the ideal solution for users who value outstanding
climate comfort and heat release. Of course combining
your footwear with different weights of socks will extend
this range further.
Weighing in at just 900 g/pair LOWA really have added
a superior lightweight, yet supportive and durable boot
model to their Task Force Collection. Available in UK sizes
6.5 -13 including 1/2 sizes the Innox boots really can be
fitted to perfection, and initial testing has proved them to
be extremely comfortable right out of the box; if, like us
you’re a full on LOWA fan then rest assured you’re going
to love this new model!
PETZL TACTIKKA
+RGB
Over the years I’ve owned
many head torches and they
are an invaluable tool; being
able to go “hands free” whilst
maintaining a stable light
source means that you can go
about your tasks after dark just as easily as in daylight.
Whilst there are many brands available on the market
I’ve personally always gone to one manufacturer, and
that is Petzl.
Petzl’s roots lie in the desire of its founders to serve
one passion, and that is purely and simply exploration.
Since its beginnings in caving, the company’s mission has
remained constant; to offer practical solutions that allow
people to progress. Today that pioneering spirit and passion
for exploration have not changed. More than forty years
after their founding, Petzl continues to invent products
and provide solutions that allow both recreational and
professional users to access some of the most inaccessible
places, both day and night.
The TACTIKKA +RGB is a compact head torch ideal
for both recreational and professional users, offering a
choice of white or red/green/blue lighting to preserve
night vision. It’s designed for activities where stealth is a
key factor. The TACTIKKA +RGB head torch offers versatile
lighting; proximity or focused lighting for movement,
BOOST mode for temporary access to maximum brightness
(160 lumens) and three lighting modes (red, green or
blue). It also features CONSTANT LIGHTING technology to
ensure constant brightness over time, and a mixed beam
(wide, focused or red).
At only 88g with the batteries fitted, and with a
comfortable, broad headband, the TACTIKKA +RGB can be
worn for extended periods of time; the headband also
offers sufficient adjustment for it to be worn with most
helmets. The torch itself can be angled downwards to
bring the beam into exactly the position you need it to be,
and angling downwards gives easy access to the battery
compartment. The broad, well-sized function control
button, which allows you to easily cycle between lighting
modes, is big enough to use even with gloves on.
Whilst the TACTIKKA +RGB is not the smallest head torch
on the market it’s easily stowable, and durable enough to
put up with some serious abuse. I’ve been using the latest
version for over six months now, and even with regular
use I’m still using the original batteries that came as part
of the deal, so the run time is obviously exemplary. The
TACTIKKA +RGB comes in camo, desert tan, and
black.
After using Petzl head torches for many years
I have great confidence in what the brand builds,
and thus far the TACTIKKA +RGB has proved that
they continue to drive the technology forward.
GEAR ON TEST
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LTT - FIRST TACTICAL
LONG TERM TEST - FIRST TACTICAL
SPECIALIST 1 DAY PACK & RIFLE SLEEVE
Each and every time I step onto a range I always remember two words that have been ingrained
into me since I first shot with my father many, many moons ago, and those two words are simply
“Eyes and Ears”.
When the new millennium arrived, it
was on the heels of the U.S. firearms
industry struggling to survive the very
anti-gun presidency of Bill Clinton
which would end on the last day of the
year 2000. Sadly, as the gun industry
began to rebound slowly, America
suffered the 9-11 attacks in New
York, Pennsylvania and Washington
DC. Suddenly, the War on Terrorism embarked on the world’s
largest hide and seek mission to find those responsible.
A new buzz word, “tactical”, began to pop up all across
the industry in not only guns but gun related gear as well.
Traditional military and law enforcement made up of
heavy and cumbersome materials gave way to new and
cutting edge designs which trickled down from the battle
fields to the private citizens who trained hard and held true
to the fundamental patriotism the United States and the Free
World was founded on.
Through the 2000’s, great gear such as the 5.11 RUSH
series of backpacks hit the market from the innovative mind
of Corey Nycoluk. This designer and his team helped shape
the face of the “tactical” world of gear to say the least. Now
with a new company and new team of folks at First Tactical
who fully understand that designs are meant to evolve and
change with the feedback of the end users at the tip of the
spear defending our country overseas to those standing the
line in our streets at home against evil.
I had the pleasure of meeting Corey Nycoluk and First
Tactical team during last year’s Industry Range Day at SHOT
SHOW, where I got my first hands on look at their products.
From a lengthy conversation with Corey, I discovered
most of the First Tactical designs had been reached for years
by taking the time to personally read thousands of emails
and letters from the returns department of his old job. Corey
stated he learned a lot about what worked and what certainly
didn’t in the real world by civilians, contractors and military
personnel alike. As I was listening to the origins of the design
while handling the products, I could see these new designs
were not just revamped versions of successful products but
an all new approach to the industry completely. Eager to give
First Tactical a whirl through the Florida Swamp lifestyle, I
arranged to have a 1 Day pack and rifle case sent for review.
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FIRST LOOK
Once life returned to normal a few weeks after returning from
the show in Las Vegas, I received a package from First Tactical at
my door. When I opened the package, it was my first time seeing
the OD Green version Specialist 1 Day Pack. Accompanying the
pack was the rifle bag in the same matching colour. This colour
seemed to blend well into a variety of environments without
screaming “Look at me, I’m a tactical pack!” As time went on
with the pack, this would prove even truer while traveling.
My first thoughts about the two products were the clean
lines of the design and how professional each looked. As I went
through the pack and the rifle case from top to bottom, I saw
redesigned areas where I traditionally had gripes about other
gear. From the start, I was thinking, “Wow, these guys thought
of everything!” What I didn’t realise at the time, was that I
would constantly be discovering things I liked as time went on
during the summer of testing.
SPECIALIST 1 DAY PACK
Between teaching at my local range, running firearms and gear
tests at our infamous Swamp Training Group and travelling for
business and pleasure, I have a lot of gear to carry. The Specialist
1 Day Pack spent the summer switching out from hauling my lap
top, electronic equipment, and cameras to firearms, ammunition,
clip boards, score sheets, training plans and hearing protection
to diapers, baby bottles and extra clothes for my daughters
during a day out. The reinforced carry handle made the pack
easy to pull in and out of my back seat and toss over my
shoulder quickly. What I found that helped facilitate carrying this
wide array of load out the most was the Velcro internal wall
of the main compartment for any and all pouches I wished to
add. This made it simple to keep things modular and quick to
change out on the go. The mesh pocket on the opposite side of
the interior leading down to the two Velcro dump pouches were
surprisingly large enough to hold wet windbreakers or clothing
after changing from a long hot day on the range. Thanks to the
180 degree ability to open the pack, access to anything inside
was quick and easy.
When the pack wasn’t completely full, I really liked the
compression straps on the outside. What set these straps
apart from those found on most gear was the fact they were
movable to any of the generously applied Molle loops across
the front and sides of the pack as needed. This option allowed
for the compression tension to be applied at the correct angle to
properly cinch around the load. This aids in keeping the weight
of the load out closer to the body and
better balanced to combat undue stress
to the back and shoulders.
Moving to the outside pockets, I
liked all the Velcro spots to put name
tape and ID patches. The top pouch was
a small rectangular sized compartment
for carrying eye protection when
heading to the range or my favourite
pair of Oakley sunglasses when on
vacation. Below this pocket was a flat
pocket I found perfect for keeping a
pair of Mechanix Wear tactical gloves.
The final pocket across the bottom of
the pack offered some of the handiest
features of it all. First Tactical’s
website referred to this pocket as the
“organiser”. Inside, there were several
small pouches that helped store pens,
business cards, spare pistol mags,
SureFire light and even the occasional
baby bottle when out with my girls. At
the top of the pocket’s interior there
were two hooks for attaching your
keys. The small one is great for keeping
a singular gate or range key while the
deluxe hook is larger and helps keep
your car keys from having to get fished
out from one of the many smaller
internal pouches.
When carrying the pack over long
periods of time, I really appreciated the thick, contoured pack
straps with closed cell foam. First Tactical calls this a yoke
handle system with a connection handle to keep the straps from
separating too far and to provide a great handle to aid in getting
it positioned on and off. At the end of each straps excess length
were thumb loops for those who like to transition some of the
weight from their backs to their hands during long hikes. I didn’t
notice any particular area of heating or “hot spots” during carry
and did notice the panel stayed cooler longer than most of my
packs. On the inside of the rear panel, there was an internal
backboard that kept the pack rigid while curved to the contour
of your back. This removal panel can double in an emergency as
anything from a makeshift C-spine brace to shovel. While I hope
in my travels it is never has a need to be removed, it does make
washing the pack a lot easier.
Like the compression straps on the side, the sternum strap
connecting the shoulder straps was movable up and down the
Molle loops on each strap. Most of my previous packs located
the sternum strap too high for my body position and would
almost feel as if it were going to work up to my neck. With this
movable system, I was able to locate the strap exactly where I
needed it for the perfect carry comfort. Where the “Why didn’t
they think of this before?” moment came when learning all the
buckles were interchangeable. This allows for a quick change if
a strap buckle breaks out in the field. In a matter of minutes, you
can switch out one of the compression strap buckles and be back
on the go. I liked the elastic coverings each buckle had to protect
them from damage and causing noise as well.
LTT - FIRST TACTICAL
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LTT - FIRST TACTICAL
At the bottom of the pack were three really neat features
I had not seen on any other tactical pack. First there were four
loops for attaching a bed roll or compression straps. A small
compartment for storing a rain fly is located in the center.
Saving the best for last, the top and bottom of the pack have
a pass through tunnel First Tactical calls their “Hook and Hang
Thru” system for carrying a full size First Tactical rifle bag!
By unzipping the top and bottom access ports, the user can
simply pull the rifle back through and use its hooks to secure
it to the Molle loops.
PACK SPECS
•Main compartment 12” L x 18.5” H x 8” D / 30.5cm L x 46.0cm H
x 20.3cm D
•Top Front Catch Pocket 9.75” L x 4.5” H x 1” D / 24.8cm L x 11.4cm
H x 2.5cm D
•Admin Pocket 10.5” L x 13.5” H x 2” D / 26.7cm L x 34.4cm H x
5.1cm D
•Approx. Capacity 2200 cubic inches / 36 liters
•Weight 3.3 lbs. / 1.5 kg
•Pockets: 5 external, 3 internal
•1000D water resistant nylon
•YKK® zippers
•Duraflex® hardware
36” Rifle Sleeve
As previously mentioned, the First Tactical series of rifle
sleeves will easily work with the Specialist 1 Day Pack for a
very inconspicuous manner of carrying a full size rifle. For
the summer review, I used the shortest of the rifle sleeves
offered measuring 36 inches in length. This allowed for easily
carrying a 16” barrel AR-15 rifle with fully collapsed stock.
While at first this rifle sleeve looks very unassuming and plain
on the outside, it actually offers a wide range of possibilities
for use.
Along the right side of the case, there are three rows of
hook and loop attachments located on the outside for any ID
patches or name tape you wish to add. The small compression
straps are located along the top to keep the case snug to
the rifle inside and covered with elastic to keep everything
quiet. The reinforced handles kept them from sagging and
digging into my hands when transporting to the range. Even
the zippers were well thought out with overlapping sliders
with oversized holes for use with a small pad lock. Zipping
and unzipping the case was fast and easy using the pull tabs
attached to the sliders. Along the back, the case featured
loops for connecting the previously mentioned Hook and
Hang system as well as a loop at the end of the case for using
it as an improvised drag bag.
The wide 180 degree case opening gave full access to the
interior for storing and retrieval of the rifle. The first thing you
will notice once the case is open is a compression molded
barrel mount held in place with more hook and loop Molle
loops that run the entire length of the left side interior. This
compression molded mount helps prevent the tip of the rifle’s
barrel from bulging through the case. Aside from stopping
the barrel from unwanted movement, it provides rigidity for
the case’s overall. For some reason, if the end user did not
like this feature, it can be quickly removed.
On the opposite side, there is a name tag while along
the bottom is a large hook and look area for Velcro backed
pouches and accessories to attach. When zipped back closed
around the rifle, the rifle sleeve offers a very narrow and easy
to store package with no “flop” or sag when carrying to and
from the range. During the test period, I often went out in
public with the rifle sleeve attached into the Specialist 1 Day
pack without the slightest odd look when checking into a
hotel or event. This was unique due to the attention I get any
time I carry a military styled pack with visible Molle loops
and standard tactical colors like Coyote, OD Green or even
sometimes just plain black. This ability to move in and out of
the public eye unnoticed with a full day’s load out is a great
advantage over the rest of my gear to say the least.
RIFLE CASE SPECS
•38” L x 10.5” H x 1.5” D / 96.5cm L x 26.7cm H x 3.8cm D
•Approx. Capacity 600 cubic inches / 9.8 liters
•Weight 1.65 lbs. / 0.75 kg
•500D nylon
•10mm closed cell foam
•YKK® zipper
•Duraflex® hardware
FINAL THOUGHTS
At the end of the day, the Specialist 1 Day Pack and Rifle
Sleeve I tested from First Tactical offered very well thought
out designs that made the extremely difficult journey of
moving from good looking ideas in the drawing room to
successes in the real world. My time getting to learn from
Corey Nycoluk really opened my eyes to a new generation
of tactical gear that leaves other industry names in the
category of “tacti-cool”. First Tactical gear is quickly gaining
the reputation simply as “Tools that do their damn job well!”
by the real professionals that depend on their products with
their lives. As the company grows larger with the expansion
of new products, I am very eager to see what the future holds
for this creative and innovative company. For learn more,
check them out at www.firsttactical.com.
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TAC GEAR - BATTLE BELTS
BATTLE BELTS
In our Special report this issue we look at the "Soldiers Load"; many readers will have grown up
with humble webbing or LBE, and "belt kit" is still a fundamental part of what we all carry. Andy
takes a look at options we have today in the form of the "Battle Belt".
No matter how much kit you carry into an
operational scenario, there is never enough
room to store it all on your person. Loading up
your combat vest with extra ammo, grenades,
radio communications, mission specific tools,
food, water, orders and the likes, soon fills up
all the pockets and pouches you have. Yes we
can pile on kit wherever the MOLLE sits, but do
you really want to hit the deck with a shed load of kit on the
front of your plate carrier when the lead starts coming your way?
There is an easy solution to this load baring problem.
Battle belts or War belts have been around for many years
now in the form of combat webbing sets. Normally comprising
of a belt, yoke or suspenders and an array of pouches, these
early battle belts have proved their worth by army’s around
the globe. The modern battle belt is a far better improvement
on the bog standard set of issue webbing. Today’s battle belts
are usually of a MOLLE design, making it far easier for the
wearer to customise the belt for their intended use. Designs
of the battle belt vary from manufacturer to manufacturer,
but most now use the ever popular MOLLE system. The MOLLE
system (Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment) uses
several rows of webbing strips sewn onto the belt or pad,
enabling the pouches to be added to the belt by weaving the
straps on the rear of the pouch onto the belt.
MOLLE can be found on almost every piece of military
load carrying platform from belts to vests to backpacks. The
MOLLE pouches are compatible with all other MOLLE systems
regardless of manufacturer, making them one of the most
versatile pieces of kit available today for the individual
operator. This simple design allows the user to weave straps
on the back of the pouches in and out of the MOLLE attached
to the garment. This is akin to stitching the pouch to the
garment yet easy to remove and replace at any time.
The latest trend in MOLLE systems is a laser cut fabric
that negates the need for strips of webbing to be sewn onto
the pad itself. This, the manufacturers say, is a stronger and
cheaper way of manufacturing the MOLLE system and is
compatible with all existing MOLLE pouches. For me I have
no issues with the old MOLLE system and live by the saying
‘if it isn’t broke don’t fix it’. I have tried the laser cut system
and find although it’s lighter, it’s also a bugger to thread and
replace pouches, also at the time of writing this article there
wasn’t many laser cur MOLLE battle belts on the market. I
found that the traditional MOLLE system to be better, but
that’s my own personal opinion.
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The three belts that I have included here use different ways of
securing the belt. Component battle belts consist of a MOLLE
pad with a separate belt that is threaded through the pad. The
buckles on the belt can be of any type as you can use any belt
that is suitable. The most common component battle belts in
use have a quick release clip or roll pin buckle. The choice of
what belt and fastening system you go for is a luxury you have
when choosing a component battle belt. Some battle belts have
an integrated buckle system that is attached directly to the belt
by means of webbing strap or strips with an adjustable buckle
system. Integrated buckles, although fully adjustable, need to
be fixed or discarded if the belt should break. Component belts,
however, are fixed by simply replacing the broken belt for a new
one. Any belt will do so long as it is wide enough to support
the MOLLE pad. I’ve even seen a battle belt being held together
with 550 cord and cable ties after the buckle on the belt broke;
a quick battlefield fix until a new belt could be found.
CIVVY AND MIL
Battle belts are not always seen or used in areas of conflict. My
civilian range belt has a similar setup as my duty battle belt.
Consisting of a 2 inch wide belt, (without a pad), leather holster,
magazine pouches, PFAK (Personal First Aid Kit), this setup allows
me to continue with my training but without looking like Rambo
down on my local firearms range. Many civilian ranges these
days tend to shy away from the military look. As I don’t spend
all day at the range with my belt around my waist, I don’t feel
the need for a pad. The padding provides comfort and support
when the battle belt is fully laden with kit. There are several
widths and thicknesses of padding as well as materials.
If the padding is too thick then the belt will tend to lose grip
and move around when you move. Likewise if the belt is too
wide the belt also tends to move. A good amount of MOLLE strips
to secure your kit is three, but I have found that a minimum of
two works fine. This will enable you to have two rows of MOLLE
and some extra padding above and below the strips without
making the belt too wide. This will make the belt a lot narrower
and still afford maximum comfort and grip during use.
Depending on the intended use of your battle belt, you
will need to consider not only the amount of MOLLE you have
but also the width, thickness, and padding including the inner
lining material. The amount of kit you will be carrying also
needs careful consideration in regards to weight and bulk. Most
setups allow for a ‘free floating’ belt, however, if your battle
belt is going to be laden down with copious amounts of heavy
ammunition, grenades and other supplies then you may need
to consider the use of a yoke or suspenders. Most battle belts
have attachment points built in to accommodate a yoke of some
description. A yoke is a simple design, much like braces, that
helps to keep the belt in place by the straps crossing over your
shoulders. The yoke will help bear a great amount of weight and
prevent the belt from sagging and moving during use. The yoke
will also aid in comfort and release weight from your waist and hips.
The lining of the belt is another important consideration.
Rubber is used in some belts to reduce the movement of the
belt whilst running and during other physical activities. I have
found that a rubber lining rubs after a while and is of no use
in hot and humid climates. Thicker padded mesh lining is, for
me, an all round winner. This is not only comfortable but it also
wicks away sweat from the body and is breathable. However
a pad that is too thick can cause problems by moving around
under heavy physical activity. The thinnest pads use a liner
known as a hard liner. This liner affords very little padding,
yet is still comfortable, and has groves along the pad to aid in
breathing and venting heat away from the body. As for price, the
usual rules apply, bye what you can afford and don’t go for the
cheapest battle belt system. Quality, like many things today, is
usually measured in currency.
GEARING UP
Rigging the battle belt needs to be done right in order for it to
work for you. As a rule you should try to locate your pouches in
the same location every time. If your handgun magazine pouches
are usually on your weak side hip during every day use, then
endeavour to locate them in the same place on your battle belt.
The same goes for the rest of the pouches you may use. I once
tried to wear my handgun on the front of my plate carrier after
carrying strong side hip for over fourteen years. Transitioning
from primary weapon to secondary went drastically wrong
when I reached down to my strong side hip and found there
was no handgun. My training and muscle memory kicked in and
for a moment I was stunned and confused. I soon relocated my
handgun back to my strong side hip. The way in which you rig
your battle belt usually falls into one of three categories. Just
remember that your battle belt is a supplement to your vest
an aid to carry more of what you already carry on your armour.
• Minimalist
A minimalist battle belt can usually be found on the range.
Consisting of a belt, holster, three magazine pouches (1 rifle, 2
handgun) and PFAK, this belt is the bare minimum. There is no
need for all the bells and whistles on this type of belt. Of course
you can add the extra ammo pouch or utility pouch but don’t feel
the need to add pouches just because there is room to fit them.
The only extra pouches I would consider are a dump pouch for
my magazines and a utility pouch for my ear defenders. If you
are going down the range road then choose the same type of
hardware as your duty battle belt but in a more civilian friendly
tone. Try to stay away from the camouflage / military look on
civilian ranges.
TAC GEAR - BATTLE BELTS
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TAC GEAR - BATTLE BELTS
• Fighting loads
If you are going to use your battle belt in the field then you
will probably want to customise your belt for your job. The
addition of extra magazine pouches will be the first on your
list. A minimum of two handgun magazines and a minimum
of one rifle magazine should be carried on the battle belt, with
maybe a utility pouch to carry extra ammunition and grenades
and not forgetting food and water. Think of your battle belt as
a survival kit; ammunition to carry on the fight and that little
extra for when the fight is over, just don’t overdo it. Whatever
you decide to take, the battle belt will free up space on your
vest and help spread the weight load.
• Mission specific
This is usually ammo, ammo, ammo. Stack as much ammo on
the belt as possible. This will free up copious amounts of room
on your vest allowing you to add all those mission specific
extras like NVG, Communication sets, GPS, Breaching tools etc.
Consideration must be taken into account when placing items
on the vest, making sure that they don’t hinder the function of
the kit on the battle belt. I have found in the past that I have
been unable to retrieve certain items from the belt because
items stowed in my vest have prevented me from doing so.
Plan the layout of your belt then throw all your kit on to see if
it is compatible and works well with your vest and other kit.
• Medical
Personal First Aid Kits or PFAK are exactly what they mean, a first
aid kit for you. PFAK’s are intended for personal use only and
are not to be used for the treatment of others. On the one way
range the RO should have access to a range first aid kit, on the
two way range individuals should carry their own PFAK. If you
use your PFAK on someone else and then something happens
to you, your first responder may not have a medical kit to hand
and all you can give them is an empty PFAK. There are plenty
of commercial PFAK’s on the market to choose from, but you
may want to ditch the contents and add your own. Dressings,
FFD, Israeli dressing, sheers, tourniquet, and personal drugs are
a good start. Of course you will need to know how to apply
treatment, so a certification in first aid is needed. The PFAK
should ideally be positioned in the middle of the belt at the
back so it is out of the way but easily accessible by both hands.
The contents need to be kept in a waterproof bag or container
and stowed in the PFAK pouch. The PFAK pouch should also be
clearly marked and should also include your blood type.
ADDITIONS
• Dump Pouch
Dump pouches are nothing more than a bag to drop or dump
your spent magazines or recovered intel/evidence into. Most
dump pouches roll up out of the way when not being used.
Dumping your spent magazines into a separate pouch ensures
you don’t replace them in pouches alongside full magazines.
Once empty the spent magazines are simply dumped into the
bag and forgotten about until you need to recharge them. The
top of the pouch usually has a stiffened neck to hold the mouth
open for easily dumping the magazines. Since the magazines
are empty and of no further use until recharged, both rifle and
handgun magazines can be placed in the dump pouch together.
It’s not essential for you to carry a dump pouch on your battle
belt but it can make life a little easier when you need to make
an emergency or combat reload when the situation gets a little
hot. I spent many years throwing spent magazines down the
inside of my jacket; this was known as a “Brecon Pouch”. That,
however, was in the days when I didn’t wear ballistic protection.
Now I wear a ballistic plate carrier of some description it’s near
impossible to use the good old “Brecon Pouch”. I have found
space for a dump pouch and I must say that it’s easy and quick
to use. I’ve not included a dump pouch on my civilian belt as
I don’t go through tonnes of ammunition and if I did, I would
have the luxury of time to change magazines.
• Ancillaries and Tools
Apart from the basic and essential items to carry on your
battle belt, there may be other tools you may want to consider
adding. Multi-tools can be a god-send at times, especially if it
is a weapons tool. A small knife won’t go amiss either. White
light (flash light) can also be an asset. These extra items can
be added to the battle belt and, if they don’t come with their
own pouch, most small items will fit into handgun magazine
retention pouches. The use of a small to medium utility or
GP (general purpose) pouch is often a help. Items such as
notebook and pencil, snap-caps, weapons cleaning kit etc can
be placed in here. You can even use one as a caddy to collect
spent brass off the range. Personally I use mine to carry my ear
defenders in. Battle belts can be customised to suit any need
just remember not to overload them with things
you don’t want or need. Keep it simple.
NOTE:
Belts supplied by
www.nicks-kit.co.uk
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SHOT SHOW 2017
SPECIAL REPORT SHOT SHOW 2017
Held in Las Vegas, Nevada each January the NSSF SHOT Show is an absolute must-visit for anyone involved
in any kind of shooting discipline; this year Bill made the pilgrimage to “Sin City” to report back on what’s
coming our way in relation to the tactical and firearms world for 2017!
The 39th Shooting, Hunting and Outdoor Trade
(SHOT) Show, owned and operated by the
National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF),
signalled a positive year ahead for the firearms
industry, both in the USA and internationally.
Strong attendance, upbeat buyers and sellers,
and a series of packed special events that
collectively made up “SHOT Week” resulted in
one of the top-rated SHOT Shows ever!
The show spanned January 17th-20th 2017 at the Sands Expo
in Las Vegas. Industry professionals packed the aisles from
the get go, and by the time the doors closed on the Friday
afternoon attendance totalled nearly 65,000, surpassing last
year’s turnout to make it the second most attended SHOT Show
in the history of the event.
I’ve been to SHOT Show on a number of occasions now, and
if you’ve never visited the sheer scale of what is on offer will
blow your mind; you’ll end up walking miles to see so much
innovation that it quite literally takes your breath away, and
it’s the perfect opportunity to make new connections and reestablish
old ones.
Now we have the IWA Outdoor and Classics Show here in
Europe, and I’m pleased to report that it continues to grow
steadily, but SHOT is like IWA on steroids.
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There were thousands of products for attendees to see on the show
floor, encompassing firearms, ammunition, accessories, optics,
knives, gun safes, apparel and tactical equipment, among other
categories. More than 500 new products from 338 companies
were on display in the show’s New Product Centre alone, which
was sponsored by the U.S. Concealed Carry Association. In addition
to the more than 1,600 exhibiting companies on the main show
floors, the NEXT 2.0 Pavilion provided first-time vendors from
the show’s extensive waiting list with welcome visibility and
potential new customers.
If there’s something you want to find in relation to Shooting
Sports, including the very latest airsoft innovations, then “SHOT”
is most definitely the place to visit!
RANGING IN!
Not all of the important attractions are on the Show floor though,
and one of the most eagerly anticipated events is Industry Day at
the Range; this takes place on the Monday immediately prior to
the show at is held at the Boulder Rifle & Pistol Club Boulder City,
Nevada, approximately 25 miles out into the desert south of Las
Vegas. Coaches are provided throughout the day to transfer both
media attendees and buyers from The Strip to the range, and
once there you can rest assured that as a shooter you’re going to
have an amazing day!
Industry Day at the Range is the largest, most influential oneday
event in the hunting and shooting industry, period. For the
last eleven years, Industry Day has been the epicentre where gun,
archery and hunting manufacturers, dealers, buyers, retailers and
the media join together for one day on the range where new
products are unveiled, tested and analysed. It provides a handson
experience that one cannot get anywhere else, especially if
you’re from the UK as there are full-auto carbines and .50 calibre
rifles for you to shoot, and more handguns than most of us have
seen in one place before. Ammo is dished out like sweets, but the
safety aspects are always to the fore.
Along with my good friend and PMCI Staffer Trampas and his
motley crew from Swanson Media Group I had the great pleasure
of shooting some great new firearms including the Hudson HP9,
the Colt Delta Elite, the Smith & Wesson M&P 2.0 pistol, and the
DVC Carry and Tactical models from STI International.
Lewis Machine and Tool were showing off their latest PDW,
which I loved shooting, and the Kel-Tec RDB bullpup was an
absolute dream. One great find though was a heat-mitigating
fore-end from Ascendance International and I’ll be covering
this off in a dedicated review in a future issue! You name the
company though, all the big names, and they were there, and I’m
somewhat embarrassed that I must have cost the manufacturers
a considerable amount in ammunition!
HITTING THE FLOOR(S)!
The doors to the show proper though opened bright and early on
the Tuesday morning, and after a brief visit to the professionally
run Press Room, sponsored this year by Carhartt, it was time to
get rolling; as much as I like to see as much as possible when I visit
SHOT, experience has taught me that you need to make a schedule
and stick to it. It’s simply just not possible to see everything, but
with so many friends in attendance there was a constant “heads
up” flow of information in relation to exciting new products.
SHOT SHOW 2017
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SHOT SHOW 2017
First up was firearms, and you really can’t see everything.
One of the trends that caught my eye very quickly was the
move even further towards even lighter carbines and rifles,
with many manufacturers going for skeletonised rails and
stocks; there was also a lot of carbon fibre in evidence and the
race is obviously on to bring in the lightest carbine to date!
With all the big names in play, firearm models that stood
out for me where the Remington Defense R4 carbon line, the
updated FN 15” family with M-LOK, the ADCOR Elite with a
unique forward charging handle, the Barrett REC7 Gen II, the
WARSPORT LVOA and GPR-C, and the WARZ M4 Series from DSA.
Bullpups seem to be on the rise as well, which was very
interesting to see; although I personally missed the range
session it was excellent to hear that Desert Tech have finally
ironed out the gremlins in their long-awaited MDR. Kel-Tec put
in a very strong showing with their RDB and RFB models and
the ATRAX system from Lithgow Arms certainly seems very
interesting. It was also interesting to note that the AR/AK story
also seems to be moving on, as the updated models of the
CMMG Mutant got A LOT of attention!
Handguns next and there were a lot of new models to check
out! Big news during the show was that the US Army is retiring
the standard-issue Beretta M9 in favour of a more modern
pistol. The pistol, called the P320, was originally designed by
the German firm Sig Sauer for civilians in 2014, and it can be
easily reconfigured to suit a variety of needs. The Army plans
to purchase more than 280,000 of the handguns initially, with
more to come, and Sig Sauer says it will manufacture all of
them at its factory in New Hampshire; of course this meant that
the SIG stand saw a LOT of traffic!
New for the show though were the CZ P10 and the Remington
RP9; these are noteworthy as both models are striker fired. Also
outstanding for me personally were the Colt Delta Elite Rail Gun
chambered in 10mm and the Walther CREED.
Obviously I’ve already mentioned the Hudson HP9, the
Smith & Wesson M&P 2.0 pistol, and the DVC Carry and Tactical
models from STI International.
All the big names for optics were at SHOT 2017 but it was
absolutely fabulous, as a Brit, to see the lads from SHIELD
SIGHT plying their trade up there with the very best. I’ve had a
great relationship with SHIELD for a number of years now, and
after a 20 year journey themselves the guys are taking great
pleasure in showing off their family of mini-sights, including
the new RMS, to the world.
Our good friends at VORTEX also had some big news for the
show with the launch of their VENOM red dot and a first for
them, the new RAZOR AMG UH-1 holosight; test models have
already been booked so expect to see the lowdown on these in
a future issue of PMCI.
ACCESSORIES & TECH
When it comes to firearms accessories you can’t not mention
MAGPUL, and once again they had lots of goodies on offer
including some great new furniture for the venerable Ruger
10/22. It was also the 10th anniversary of the P-MAG so they
had a lot to smile about.
The UTG/Leapers stand is always and impressive affair, but
this year seemed bigger and bolder than ever before; if you
need an accessory for your firearm then they will undoubtedly
have it! Last year at IWA they were at the very forefront of the
whole “KeyMod” rail drive, and whilst adding further to this
32

very impressive gear on show; our mates at First Tactical had a
superb new update with their “Defender” pants and combat shirt,
and their new “Operator” boot looks absolutely first rate.
Vertx, a favourite of the PMCI crew, announced the expansion
of their RECON line with a new pant and combat shirt, but the big
news of the show for me was the first showing of the Outdoor
Research tactical clothing line. Best known for their gloves and
accessories, which again are used by the PMCI team, the clothing
line arrived fully matured using some of the most cutting-edge
fabric technologies available, and looked very impressive to say
the least.
they’ve also delved fully into “M-LOK” as well. There were some
great rails and accessories on show for AK variants, but it was
their “PRO 15 inch Super Slim” system that really caught my eye;
if you’re looking to build a “lo-drag rifle” then this comes in a
whole range of models and is extremely light and low profile!
Also worthy of note in respect of accessories were GUNTECH
USA with their Air Lite handguards; they make over 700 AR parts
and accessories! Adaptive Tactical were certainly worth a look too,
especially for their VENOM shotgun magazine conversion kits.
Trinity Force also put in a strong showing with some really, really
well-priced stocks and stock packages.
In terms of Tech that caught my eye the big one has to be
the MantisX training system which you’ll find detailed further in
this issue. Ascendance “INTHERM” handguards I also mentioned
earlier, but on Range Day I also spent some time with the
guys from Tracking Point; this uses the same “lock and launch”
technology found in military fighter jets but for your rifle or
carbine and is very interesting indeed. Sometimes though it’s the
tiny things that really make you smile, and the miniscule “Ulti
Clip”, which offers up to 10x greater retention for your concealed
carry holster, ranks pretty highly in this respect.
In relation to footwear LOWA had some new models to show off,
including the INNOX mid which you’ll see reviewed this month
in “Gear”; they also had some new low cut models which look
excellent. Salmon had some new colours in evidence, and both
Bates and Rocky had some tactical models that were worth a
look. Industry veteran ALTAMA also entered new territory with
their OTB maritime Assault Mid. I spent some time with the guys
at 707 Tactical Gear that run the SIXKA range of boots and I’ll be
reporting on those in more depth very soon.
Yet again when it comes to knives and tools the “usual
suspects” like Gerber and Leatherman had new things to show,
and you’ll find a report on new models from SOG Knives also in
this issue. As always though we like to work also with the “little
guys who do cool stuff” and it was a real pleasure to meet up
with Spartan Blades and Skallywag Tactical.
SHOT SHOW 2017
CLOTHING, FOOTWEAR, AND BLADES
It would be utterly impossible to cover every clothing and
footwear manufacturer, but suffice to say the “big boys” like
Blackhawk! And 5:11 had updates and additions to their already
extensive ranges. It was the smaller outfits though that had some
IT’S A WRAP!
Of course what I’ve brought you here is just the very tip of the
iceberg, and there is SO much more exciting news that will be
coming by the time that IWA is upon us, and visiting SHOT show
this year has let me tap into it earlier than ever before. Of course
I also spoke at length to more manufacturers in the footwear,
clothing and equipment sectors, but that’s a whole other story
which I tend to concentrate on at IWA; suffice to say that there’s a
lot of tactical goodness lined up for evaluation and review, which
will drop into PMCI in the coming months.
SHOT Show is the largest trade show of its kind in the world,
attracting attendees from more than 100 countries, and it was
truly great to see friends old and new. Preparations have already
begun for next year’s 40th anniversary SHOT Show,
which will return to the Sands Expo on January 23rd-
26th 2018; hope to see you all there!
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MEET THE MAKER: SOG KNIVES
SOG KNIVES
A few years back now, when SHOT was still staged in Orlando I recall seeing a quite unassuming stand
which although modest piqued my curiosity given its name; SOG Knives. As an aficionado of military
history and especially the Vietnam War I immediately made a connection and knew I had to speak to them.
The story of SOG Knives does indeed begin in
Vietnam, where members of a highly classified
US special ops unit known as the Military
Assistance Command, Vietnam Studies and
Observations Group (MACV-SOG) carried a
unique combat knife into the jungle on covert
missions, missions that were often far behind
enemy lines where the small, lightly armed
“Recon Teams” used every trick in the book to
thwart their enemies. Years later, in 1986, that knife inspired a
young designer, named Spencer Frazer, to found SOG Specialty
Knives. His mission; to reproduce the original SOG Bowie knife
and pay tribute to the special ops unit that created it.
Making changes to the original design of the MACV-SOG
knife, like resin-impregnating the leather handle, utilising
thicker stock and new grind lines, Spencer and his wife Gloria
launched their product and company with a one-page, black
and white ad in Soldier of Fortune Magazine of the S1 Bowie, a
replica of the SOG Knife. They also produced the SCUBA/Demo
knife, which is a replica of one of the rarest military knives to
date (only 1 of the original 39 knives produced has survived till
this day). Knives such as these and many of the SOG models
produced prior to the shift of production from Seki, Japan to
Taiwan are considered to be the best knives SOG had ever made.
A second “maritime” version of the Bowie (S2) was made
utilising a black micarta handle and stainless steel blade and
was known as the Trident. It was decorated with the US
Navy SEAL emblem as opposed to the Special Forces
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Crest found on the Bowie. The original S1 and S2 classic Bowies
were manufactured for SOG by Ichiro Hattori of Seki Japan until
2006. The other models were manufactured by Kinryu Corp. also
of Seki until 2007.
What began as a single commemorative model soon became
a full line of innovative tools field-proven by US Special Forces,
even honoured as the Navy SEAL knife of choice; SOG manufactures
a knife used by the United States Navy SEALs dubbed the SEAL
2000. The SOG SEAL 2000 is a 7” bladed fixed blade knife with
a rubber handle that was designed for the US Navy SEAL knife
trials in 1992. The knife was manufactured from 1995 to 2007 for
SOG by Kinryu of Seki Japan. Both the Seal 2000 and the smaller
version, the Seal Pup are on display in the knife exhibit at the US
Navy SEAL Museum in Fort Pierce, Florida.
SOG Specialty Knives manufactures an array of tools available
for military personnel and outdoor users. SOG also makes several
other military style knives including a tactical switchblade which
is only available to military/law enforcement personnel. SOG has
developed fixed blade knives for survival and outdoors such as
the Tech Bowie as well as folding knives, many of which feature
assisted opening technology such as the Aegis, Twitch and
Trident. SOG also manufactures multi-tools including the Paratool,
PowerLock, and PowerAssist. Many of SOG’s folding knives and
multi-tools are made or assembled in the USA, with the higher
priced folders being made by G.Sakai in Seki, Japan.
DIFFERENT YEAR, DIFFERENT VENUE,
DIFFERENT SOG!
Given what I knew of SOG Knives from that short meeting many
moons ago, when I was invited to go along and check out their
latest products at this year’s show, I jumped at the chance. The
years have obviously been good to the folks at SOG Knives as this
time their stand was extensive and bang up to the minute. Gove
were the crowded displays, and in their place was a thoroughly
modern, bright, airy display space.
Their offering of new knives and tools was also very extensive,
with 28 models making an appearance this year; they were also
showing a really cool looking range of new packs which I’ll be
looking at in more detail in a future issue of PMCI.
I’ll start n on the new products with Multitools as let’s face
it, we all have one or more of these in our EDC; some time in
the third century, a Mediterranean toolmaker is believed to have
produced the first multi-tool. It included a three-pronged fork, a
small spatula, a pick, a spike and a knife blade. Now, some 1,800
years later, SOG have come up with an entire new way of looking
at the multi-tool; The Baton Series.
With four distinct models, SOG’s revolutionary Baton multitools
reimagine the look, shape, and feel of the multi-tool
while delivering above and beyond the goal of versatility and
adaptability that toolmakers have strived for since the tumultuous
days of the Roman Empire.
A collaborative effort between SOG’s award-winning product
engineers and IDEO, one of the world’s leading innovative design
firms, the Baton Series combines the functionality of quality tools
with a form that suits the lifestyle of modern users. Each of the
four Batons are cylindrical, not much longer than a standard No.
2 pencil and about as thick as a Magic Marker. Once the breakopen
action of a Baton is activated, a host of purposeful tools is
revealed inside.
MEET THE MAKER: SOG KNIVES
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MEET THE MAKER: SOG KNIVES
“We’ve created a multi-tool with aesthetics unlike anything in
this space, but one that still delivers all the performance users
demand,” said Spencer Frazer, founder of SOG Knives & Tools.
“It’s a complete new way of looking at the multi-tool.”
The smallest of the Baton Series, the Q1, encapsulates the
everyday essentials with its spring-assisted scissors, replaceable
pressurized ballpoint pen, bottle opener, and flathead
screwdriver. Checking in with just a little more length and heft
than the Q1, the Q2 features a straight- edge blade, a powerful
LED flashlight, a bottle opener, and a flathead screwdriver.
The Q1 and the Q2 are perfect for the everyday tasks we all
must tackle; they include the essential tools, the must-haves
for modern day life. The versatile Baton Q3 is equipped to
tackle situations both close-to-home and far afield. With 13
tools, including pliers, a straight blade, Phillips and flathead
screwdrivers, and a bottle opener, the Q3 is the perfect choice
for a do-everything tool. The top-of-the-line Q4 is a modified
and amplified version of the Q3, featuring a magnetic ratchet
driver for the included 12-piece hex bit kit.
A COMPLETE NEW LINE OF BLADES!
SOG were also excited to announce a new line of knives
completely made in the U.S.A. The initial products are to be
released in this year and include a fixed blade, and three
folders. For this product line, SOG brought together a collective
of artisans and engineers to achieve increased production, new
styles and materials, while offering improved toughness, better
edge retention, higher resistance to wear and edge chipping.
This series of knives from SOG showcase the superior
materials used when creating these premium products such as
Crucible Steel CPM S35VN steel and Micarta handles.
Banner is a fully equipped, heavy-duty folder with a SAT®
assisted-opening CPM S35VN blade in a black Cerakote®
coating housed in an anodized aluminium handle with steel
liners. For a 3.5-inch blade, it weighs in at a relatively light
4.5 oz. Utilizing SOG’s patented assisted opening technology,
the blade opens quickly with a simple push of your thumb on
the thumb stud. The anodized aluminium handle and stainless
steel liners make the knife balanced and strong. The handle
contours to your hand making it comfortable to hold and grip.
Strat-Ops is a heavy-duty folder with an automatic CPM
S35VN blade, with a black Cerakote coating, housed in a linen
Micarta handle with stainless steel liners. Measuring 8.0 total
inches, with a 3.5-inch blade, the slim Strat-Ops weighs just 3.7
oz. Quick to open and durable, the push of a button causes the
blade to open quickly and lock in place with a secure click.
The linen Micarta handle offers superior grip in wet or dry
conditions and looks better the more it is used with the natural
wear of the linen.
Tac-Ops, a durable and sturdy folder with an automatic
CPM S35VN blade, with a black Cerakote coating housed in a
linen Micarta handle with stainless steel liners. With an overall
length of 8.2 inches, with a 3.5-inch blade, the Tac-Ops is still
relatively lightweight at 4.6 oz. With the push of a button, the
blade opens quickly and locks in place with a secure click. The
linen Micarta handle offers superior grip in wet or dry conditions
and looks better the more it is used. The handle shape contours
to your hand making it comfortable to hold and grip.
Pillar is a fully equipped, full tang CPM S35VN steel fixed
blade, with a stone wash and machine ground finish. This
workhorse is built to handle any task. The canvas Micarta
handle offers superior grip in wet or dry conditions and looks
better the more it is used. Added with the Kydex sheath and
adjustable low profile locking mount, this makes for a perfect
choice for carry.
SOG strives to be the creator of the most distinctive
gear; gear made especially for adventurous people who like
to “live on the edge”. SOG’s mission is to design and create
gear of the highest quality, distinction and value that delivers
what consumers need, and in order to do so, always defining
the leading edge of technology. Given the models that I’ve
chosen to highlight here I think it can be safely said that SOG
are meeting their chosen mission in every way, and honour
the memory of those very special “Vietnam Warriors” in an
exemplary fashion.
In their own words their products are “Forged out of
tradition, hardened in the field, honed for you.”
For more information on all the models featured here,
along with the rest of their extensive and comprehensive range
of knives, tools, and accessories please visit www.sogknives.com
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FIREARMS: STI
STI INTERNATIONAL
Whilst in Las Vegas for SHOT 2017 Bill the Ed had a chance to get some range time courtesy of STI International
and came away very impressed with their extensive range of “1911” style handguns.
I’ve always been a huge fan of the venerable “1911”
and what a history that pistol has; getting the
opportunity to get “hands on and live” with various
models manufactured by STI International was a rare
treat which gave me a far deeper appreciation of what
they offer.
STI International, Inc. is a Texas-based company that
manufactures complete M1911 pistols and parts for
competition, duty and self-defence. They are best
known for their “2011” modular frame guns, so-called because
the lower grip and trigger guard, which is made of a fibre
reinforced plastic, is a separate component from the metal
upper portion of the frame that comprises the dust cover and
frame rails. STI and Strayer Voigt Inc. share the patent on the
modular frame.
In 1990, Virgil Tripp, a gunsmith and machinist, started
building custom 1911s for competition use, especially USPSA/
IPSC. After some time, Virgil began designing parts for 1911s,
including electrical discharge machining (EDM) hammers and
sears. Virgil’s company was called Tripp Research, Inc. and
most of his parts were sold and marketed by Chip McCormick,
a champion pistol shooter, under his company’s name, Chip
McCormick Corporation (known as CMC)
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Around 1993, an engineer and computer aided design (CAD)
expert named Sandy Strayer joined Tripp Research, Inc. Tripp and
Strayer revolutionized the 1911 market by designing a modular
hi-capacity 1911 frame for IPSC shooters. The result was that the
modular frame weighed less than half of what the steel frame
weighed. The STI also felt similar to a regular 1911 since the grips
were moulded into the plastic of the frame rather than screwed
to the outside. Tripp and Strayer were listed as the co-patent
holders on the modular frame. Soon after the modular frame was
introduced, the company name changed to STI (Strayer-Tripp, Inc.)
and Strayer was given an equity stake in the new company.
In June 1994, Sandy Strayer left STI to start a new company
called Strayer Voigt Inc, which focuses on building completely
custom pistols as opposed to the “semi-custom” models of STI.
In November 1994, Dave and Shirley Skinner, owners of an
electronics company named Tessco, Inc., became involved in the
operation of STI along with Virgil Tripp. In early 1997, the Skinners
completed their purchase of STI from Virgil Tripp and renamed the
company to STI International, Inc. Virgil went on to start a new
company using the name Tripp Research, Inc., which produces
various finishes for firearms and magazines for 1911s. During
the Clinton era high capacity ban, STI remained in business by
focusing on exports and the growing concealed carry market. As
of 2007 STI was the third largest exporters of pistols in America.
In January 2005 Dave Skinner sold the company to the
employees of STI, making it the first ESOP (Employee Stock
Ownership Plan) company in the firearms industry. Come 2010
Dave Skinner made the decision to retire and began his search
for a suitable successor. After months of looking, Tim Dillon
(formerly a military contractor overseas and the head of the Law
Enforcement Division of Brownells) was offered and accepted the
job of President/CEO.
BANG UP TO DATE
Today, STI manufactures a full range of 2011 pistols based on its
modular frame, in addition to single stack 1911s using steel and
aluminium frames in a variety of calibres such as 9mm Parabellum,
.45 ACP, .40 S&W, and .38 Super. STI also manufactures a full line
of parts for 1911 pistols, such as modular frame kits (which
are used by gunsmiths to build complete guns), slides, barrels,
FIREARMS: STI
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FIREARMS: STI
compensators, triggers, hammers, thumb and grip safeties,
slide stops, firing pins, guide rods, magazine wells, magazines,
and scope mounts. STI’s modular frames are marketed under
the brand name 2011, a take on the 1911 name.
The STI commitment to making some of the very finest
custom quality handguns that your hard earned money can
buy goes far deeper than some plaque on a factory wall. It
is a personal responsibility of every STI employee to put their
best into each gun that leaves the building. For them it is more
than a job, it is innovating and engineering to keep raising the
STI standard; it is machining and hand crafting each part for
a fit and finish that fills your hand with confidence; and it is
the integrity to stay the course even if it means doing things
differently. STI is for the discerning shooter who appreciates
having the best.
Each STI gun is handcrafted by a certified gunsmith and goes
through over 30 quality checks before it leaves the building. STI
uses only the highest quality parts available throughout the
builds. Each sear and hammer is EDM wire cut, which is an
innovation that helped STI make a name for itself years ago.
Every part that STI manufactures is built to oversized tolerances
so they can be hand fitted to each individual gun. Each gun
is fully function tested and meticulously inspected for any
blemishes. The completed STI gun represents some of the finest
in handgun custom quality, performance and accuracy.
ROUNDS DOWNRANGE
Arriving at the STI stand on Range Day I was stunned by the
sheer range and diversity of what they had on show; taking
models from both their 2011 and 1911 ranges, with magazines
in all the different calibres, the offering was extensive and
utterly complete. As I got speaking to the guys on the stand it
became very clear that they had both passion for, and complete
faith in, all the models on show, and in short time they were
saying to me “Well, you didn’t come here just to talk,
let’s go shoot some pistols”; talk about putting your money
where your mouth is!
In the summer of 2016 STI launched the Costa 5.0. Teaming
up with well-known shooter Chris Costa STI aimed to bring
shooters a high performance blend of tactical features, along
with 2011 accuracy and reliability. Featuring a modular 2011
frame with a tactical accessory rail, the Costa 5.0 has been
mated with a custom slide featuring high dexterity rear cocking
serrations and relief cuts throughout. Paired with an undercut
and specially stippled grip, diamond like carbon finish and a
tactical magazine well, this is one 2011 you won’t want to be
without, and shooting it proved to be exactly what I’d expected;
smooth, accurate, and dependable.
The H.O.S.T. SS (single stack) is based on the 1911 platform. It
readily provides you the ability to “host” an optic, light or a
suppressor, even all three. Designed to provide the shooter an
out of the box accessory ready platform, the H.O.S.T. SS is built
to the STI higher performance standards. Tall tritium sights are
designed to co-witness with your optic as well as allow you to
see both your target and sights, over your suppressor. Available
in either 5.0 or 4.15 inch barrel lengths to suit your preference,
both lengths feature a small classic cut to accept suppressors
without the need for extended adaptors. This design provides
for a long dust cover and the advantage of a shortened overall
40

length. The DLC coating is utilised to withstand the toughest
weather elements, and hard use holster wear. Ammunition
choices here are 9mm / .45ACP / 10mm (5.0 only), with the
9mm being my personal choice.
Available in either 9mm or .45ACP the DVC Tactical, simply
put, is built to shoot. The most functional competition gun
features are purposefully combined to fit the defensive handgun
shooter demands. Slide lightening cuts, threaded barrel, accessory
rail, stippled grip, undercut trigger guard and higher capacity
magazines are highly engineered to deliver dependability
every time out. The DVC Series has set a precedent of functional
superiority, and the DVC Tactical is no exception, functioning
fluidly and reliably.
single hand hammer access. If you need a fully featured concealed
carry gun, this one should definitely lead your short list as it’s an
absolute pleasure to shoot, is highly accurate given its compact
size, and is easy to carry all day.
In summation my time on the range with STI was a highly
pleasurable experience; I know that their handguns have an
excellent reputation and having now had the chance to shoot a
number of models I can completely understand why. When you
shoot an STI gun, know that it has been precision crafted by the
skilled hands of certified gunsmiths to perform every time.
From the first cut of a spinning CNC tool, to a final proving
shot on the test range the STI guns are made to a custom quality
that shooters’ have come to rely on. To some it may seem like
the hard way to do things, but that is what continues to put STI’s
quality above the competition.
For more information on all the models featured please visit
https://stiguns.com
FIREARMS: STI
The 9mm DVC Carry though was my personal favourite of
the models that I shot on the day; with weight and function
paramount, the DVC Carry is designed with the concealed carry
user in mind. All of the essential DVC model features have been
modified and incorporated into a tight package. The specially
stippled DVC signature grip has been shortened for ease of
concealment while still holding a higher capacity magazine.
The low profile sights are extremely functional and allow for
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ARMOURER: HARDENED ARMS
HARDENED ARMS
LUMASHARK
As mentioned in the SHOT Show 2017 report in this issue there were a couple of real stand-out products that
caught our attention, and one of these was undoubtedly the LumaShark free float handguard offered by
Hardened Arms.
Hardened Arms, LLC was established in 2012,
by Pat Merlino, and is operated by Pat, Rick
and Carol (CJ) Merlino. When you think of the
American Dream, think of these folks, they
are a hardworking, multi-talented, family run
business and they are passionate about what
they do 12 hours a day, 7 days a week. That
is the dream. If you can conceive it, and put
your heart and soul into it, you can create a
great product and achieve success!
Patrick is the owner of the company, and the technical
mind behind the innovation that takes place on their machining
floor. Pat has a deep understanding of the proper specifications
and function of the AR platform, committed to the utmost in
quality; he is simply not capable of producing anything but a
superior product. He brings his computer coding and firearms
knowledge blended together with a hands-on approach that is
refreshing in today’s business world. As a hands-on owner you
will most likely find him in the machine shop bringing a new
part to life. He is tireless when it comes to pushing for the best
quality and value for his customers.
Carol, better known as ‘Momma CJ’, is the bookkeeper, she
handles procurement, sales and makes lunch every day
for the entire staff. She now has roughly two dozen staff that
she lovingly refers to as her “children”, and she takes care of
them all, with genuine care and consideration.
Rick, Pat’s dad and husband to Carol, is the general manager
of the company. With over 40 years’ experience in the business
world, several established businesses and a commitment to
meet the needs of each and every customer, he brings a world
of experience that continues to move the company forward. He
splits his time between strategy, managing and encouraging
the staff, and traveling to various trade, law enforcement
conferences, and private firearm demonstrations. Each firearm
and firearm upper we produce is machined and custom
assembled to order. Hardened Arms insists on strict quality
control and we test fire all of our firearms and upper receivers
to insure proper function prior to shipping.
In the span of just under four years, Hardened Arms LLC has
gone from selling firearm parts out of a closet size space, to
an 8000+ sq. ft. complete machine and production shop. They
have reinvested every dime into their people, state of the art
CNC machines, and processes to ensure the highest levels of
quality, service and value for our customers.
Located in the Northwest corner of Washington State they
are the third largest private employer in their community.
42

Hardened Arms staff come from all different backgrounds: law
enforcement, firefighters, Marines, Army, Emergency Medical
Services, engineers, moms, students, mechanics and more.
At Hardened Arms, they have a core love for America and the
deepest respect for all those who have served or are currently
serving this country. That patriotic mindset pushes them as a
group to produce the very best firearms, parts and accessories
that they can.
LUMASHARK!
Hardened Arms is an 07-03 licensed manufacturer that specialises
in ‘MilSpec’ AR15 firearms, AR10s and suppressors. They are
innovators and spend a substantial amount of time and money
in R&D. Currently the company has several patents and patent
pending products. They are now in full production and are excited
to announce the release of a patented, unique, new handguard
called the “LumaShark”. The LumaShark allows for lights,
high lumen dazzlers, law enforcement grade infrared bulbs and
lasers that use a state of the art, integral mounting system that is
machined right into the rail.
It’s rare for me to see some form of rail system these days
and just simply go “WOW” but when I saw the LumaShark fully
immersed in a column of water with both lights blazing it was
most definitely something that stopped me dead in my tracks!
What is unique about the LumaShark system is that it features
twin 1150 Lumen CREE lights mounted in twin tubes that are
milled directly into an AR15 free float handguard, putting the
illumination quite literally at the operators’ fingertips!
The LumaShark lights up the night to such an extent that it has
already been described as a “weaponised” handguard. The 1150
Lumen lights are so bright that it’s impossible to look directly
at them. This “dazzling” effect can assist the user by distracting
and disrupting and enemy from their intent loop. According to
Rick the “Patented LumaShark” technology is the foundation of
a new era in weapons illumination, providing a perfect balance
between lighting, balance, versatility and ease of operation. With
several, mission specific bulb options available Hardened Arms
have developed the perfect alternative to the old style, clunky,
bolt-on taclite.
The LumaShark allows the user to thread in their choice of bulbs
in twin protected waterproof tubes that are integrated directly
into the lightweight free float rail. Ergonomically designed to
facilitate several different shooting styles, the handguard allows
additional accessory attachments via a full-length top Picatinny
rail. In addition, M-LOK system attachment points located at 3,
6, and 9 0’clock accommodate accessories such as optics, bipods,
and NV gear.
Further features include two sling mounts machined into the
rail, and optional Hardened Arms accessories that include infrared
bulbs, 200 and 500 Lumen bulbs for more traditional lighting
and flush on/off buttons. The unit’s O-ring technology means it
is waterproof to IP68 standards up to sixteen feet. The lights use
easily-sourced CR123a batteries which are affordable and easy
to change in either standard or rechargeable formats. Laser and
pressure pad options are to be released later this year.
The LumaShark is made from T-6061 aluminium and is Type
ARMOURER: HARDENED ARMS
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ARMOURER: HARDENED ARMS
II, class 3 anodized; it comes as standard in black, although
special orders are available in jungle, desert, and forest camo
as well as FDE and Cerakote.
Each LumaShark free float handguard comes as standard with:
• Two CREE 1150 Lumen dazzler bulbs
• Four CR123a batteries
• O-rings for IP68 16ft waterproofing
• Gloved hand on/off buttons
• Barrel Nut
• M-LOK attachments
• Built-in sling mounts
• Shark keychain/bulb change tool
Overall I have to say that the LumaShark is one of the most
innovative solutions to incorporating full-time illumination into
your primary weapon, and the smoothly finished, ergonomic
design means that it’s not going to get caught up in your gear
when you least expect it. The massive, blinding output of the
lights is utterly disorientating if you’re on the receiving end
of it so this could, quite literally, be a life saver. The team at
Hardened Arms really have thought “outside the box” with this
elegant solution, and I’m certain that it will be a great success
for them!
For more information on the “LumaShark”
and all the other excellent products that Hardened
Arms produce please pay a visit to www.
hardenedarms.com
44

AR FOLDING STOCK
ADAPTER GEN 3-m
The only AR compatible folding stock adapteR
• Works with direct impingement or gas piston systems 5.56 to .308
• Fits A2, carbine, mil-spec, commercial or pistol buffer tubes and stocks
hinge
Low hinge reduces interference
when charging weapon
Retaining Pin
Uses standard,
mil-spec buffer
retaining pin
Ionbond
DLC finish
ADJUSTABLE
hinge tension
4140 HARDENED Steel
Low-profile housing,
locking lug and latch
SET SCREW
Prevents adapter
loosening
from receiver
QUICK DETACH
Sling attachment
point
TOOLESS BOLT CARRIer
EXTENSION
Install and remove without
tools for easy maintenance
REPLACEABLE O-RINGS
Prevent additional damage
to the adapter in the folded
position
SYMMETRICAL DESIGN
Eliminates interference
with buffer retaining pin
Installation Tool and Flange included
SPECIFICATIONS
Housing Weight: 8.5 oz
Bolt Carrier Extension: 2 oz
Adds 1.3 inches to length of pull
CNC Machined 4140 Steel
www.LAWTACTICal.com
Copyright © 2015 Law Tactical LLC.
All rights reserved.

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SKILLS AND DRILLS: CONCEALED CARRY
SKILLS AND DRILLS: CONCEALED CARRY PT2
In the last issue of PMCI we looked at the method of carrying concealed and also the ISW (inside Waistband)
holster. In this issue I want to look at some of the do’s and don’ts when carrying a handgun concealed. For
this article we will stick with the strong side hip holster, I will include other holsters such as the shoulder
holster at a later date.
In the last issue of PMCI we looked at the method
of carrying concealed and also the ISW (inside
Waistband) holster. In this issue I want to look
at some of the do’s and don’ts when carrying a
handgun concealed. For this article we will stick
with the strong side hip holster, I will include other
holsters such as the shoulder holster at a later date.
As I have mentioned before, concealing a handgun
doesn’t mean covering it with a jacket or shirt and
that’s the end, there is more to it than that. We must take
into consideration the size and colour of the gun and also
the holster as well as our garments. For example, a silver
handgun in a brown leather holster will show up very easily
if you decide to wear them with a black under shirt or vest.
To conceal or, if you like, camouflage the concealed handgun,
a black handgun, in a black ISW holster worn against a black
under shirt would be a better option. However, concealing is
one thing, wearing your weapon during every day tasks is
another matter.
I have been fortunate enough to have been to many
places where people have been carrying concealed weapon
(myself included) and have also seen some of the most
common mistakes that have given the game away, i.e. that
they are in fact CCW (carrying a concealed weapon). Mistakes
that should never have happened and that could have caused
a lot of problems.
With this being the “private world” I doubt we would have
the same problems, as we should only be carrying a concealed
weapon in an organised and controlled environment.
However, there are a few tricks of the trade that I want
to share with you that might help you out if you are ever in a
covert role, or carrying a side arm as a back up gun (BUG).
MAGAZINES
Although magazines don’t cause much of a problem we still
need to conceal them. There are some ISW magazine pouches
on the market but these are few and far between and we
can always place spare magazines in pockets. However if
you do carry magazines in pockets, do not place other items
in the pocket with them. This will cause problems as you
fumble in the pocket trying to retrieve your spare magazine
in the middle of a reload. Some tactical clothing designs
have separate sections in pockets that are designed to fit and
hold the most common magazines (mainly rifle magazines)
but you should always practice and train to use these for
maximum performance and efficiency.
REACHING
Reaching out or up for something can and will reveal your
concealed weapon, in most cases without you being aware
that it has happened. It is important to keep the handgun
from prying eyes to reduce the cause for alarm, or unwanted
attention. After all, that’s why we are carrying concealed in the
first place. If you have a well fitting holster and a lightweight
handgun it is very easy to forget that you are in fact carrying a
concealed weapon and this is the first and one of the biggest
46

mistakes you can make. You must always be aware that you are
carrying no matter what.
As you reach up, for example, to grab a book or magazine in
a shop or library you must do so with the weak (none shooting)
hand. To do so with the strong hand will expose the weapon
as the outer garment will rise up with your arm. Another tip is
to undo your outer garment if it is at all possible to do so, this
will help the garment to hang naturally as you reach up. With
the garment open you may need to stop it from opening up too
much. So my advice is to open the garment (jacket or shirt) and
gently grip the hem of the garment with the strong hand, so
as to keep control of the garments movement as you reach up.
Reach up with your weak hand and complete the task. With a
little practice this can be done very easily and it looks perfectly
natural. However, it does take practice.
If you are wearing a closed garment such as a sweat shirt or
jumper then gently grip the hem of the garment with your strong
hand and reach up as normal. Without gripping the hem with the
strong hand there is a danger that if the gun is exposed when you
reach up the garment may not fall back into place, naturally by
catching on the weapon and keeping the weapon exposed. Not a
good thing to happen.
HUGS AND WELCOMES
We all like a hug now and then especially (and preferably) from a
loved one or close friend, although this can give away the secret
SKILLS AND DRILLS: CONCEALED CARRY
pmcimagazine.com

pmcimagazine.com
SKILLS AND DRILLS: CONCEALED CARRY
that you are carrying concealed without even exposing the
handgun.
If someone comes to give you a hug or reach out to touch
you, you can prevent them from inadvertently touching your
concealed weapon by controlling and directing their movement.
You need to place a physical barrier between them and your
handgun. This is done by keeping your strong side elbow as
close to the handgun as possible. In the situation of a hug they
are forced to place their arms around the outside of your arms
as you place yours around their waist. This will keep them clear
of your handgun.
Handshakes are easier, all that is needed is for you to keep
your distance, or keep close into the other person and keep
your strong side elbow near to the gun. If you need to put
you arm around someone, for example, in a group photo try to
place yourself at the end with your strong side away from the
other person next to you, this will ensure that the handgun is
neither felt or exposed during the photo.
REMOVING THE OUTER GARMENT
There have been many times I have had a meeting or lunch
where I needed to remove my jacket whilst CCW. I learned a
simple trick from a close friend of mine that I now use all the
time when I am taking a seat. First of all try to distract their
attention away from you as you take your jacket off (ask the
time and get them to look at their watch or ask them if they can
see the waiter). This will reduce the chance of them catching
a glimpse of your weapon. As they look away from you don’t
remove your jacket as you would normally but shrug it off your
shoulders as you sit down. The jacket should be between you
and the back of the chair. Its not the most common position for
your jacket but it will help keep your weapon concealed whilst
you are sat down. To replace your jacket just simply slip your
arms into the sleeves and shrug it back onto your shoulders. Be
mindful that once your jacket has been removed your handgun
can be exposed at any time if you are not careful.
Another option if you are in a room full of people, such as a
meeting, would be to sit at the back of the room as everyone
else will be looking away from you.
All the methods that I have mentioned are very simple to
do and are very effective. I have used them myself in the real
world of concealed carry and have never had any problems;
however, I have always been mindful that I am CCW
and also I have spent quality time practicing these
methods. Take your time when learning and have
someone else watch you as it will be someone else
that might catch you out when CCW!
48

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pmcimagazine.com
SPECIAL REPORT: A SOLDIER’S LOAD
THE UNIVERSAL SOLDIER’S BURDEN
We spend a lot of time discussing the benefits of improved equipment, but some things never change
according to former Para Peter Bing…
Friday morning, 20th of January 2017, found me
driving through the quiet outskirts of Colchester
(Essex, England) with my 85 year-old-father when,
quite unexpectedly, wheeling around the corner
and coming towards us in column of threes came a
company of Parachute Regiment soldiers.
They were, in Para vernacular, tabbing (from
TAB - Tactical Advance to Battle) in boots, MTP
trousers (boots and denims in my day), sporting
maroon sweatshirts and carrying large Bergen rucksacks.
All were blowing hard from the effort, with jaws set in a
determination that can only be appreciated if you have been
a Para (or respectfully, belonged to another elite unit), with
each one leaning forward into his burden to maintain balance
as they “scampered” (you cannot adopt the stride of a normal
runner when carrying that kind of weight) at a blistering pace
on their morning company run. Each soldier loaded, I would
bet, with a rucksack weighing at least 60lbs, before the
addition of weapon and supporting combat load that they were
not carrying that morning.
Focused on the task at hand, no one took noticed of our
passing vehicle, and even if they had, none would have had
any idea that the two veteran Paratroopers sitting inside were
taking in the scene with a mixture of nostalgia and pride. For
my father the Parachute Regiment experience began in 1951
after serving in Korea with the Argyles, and for me it started
in 1970 from school. What we were looking at was a scene
(Aldershot, not Colchester, in our day) we had both experienced
many, many, times over, being conducted by young men who
could have been either of us from our own Para generations.
That brief scene got me to thinking “nothing much changed
there then”. January 2017 and the infantryman’s lot is still to
struggle to get himself physically into battle under a mountain
of kit and equipment; as he did in the town of Colchester,
when infantry on that same road 2000 years ago were Roman
legionnaires, who referred to themselves as “Marius’ Mules”
after the general who loaded them down with so much
equipment. As an aside, Colchester is my hometown, so I
may well be descended from one such individual? Of course,
it is necessary for specialist infantry like paratroopers to be
fit enough and strong enough to bear the burden, because
unlike mechanized units, once parachuted or helicoptered onto
the area of operations they are dependent on muscle power
alone. But what studies, as far as the British Army is concerned,
have been undertaken to reduce and redistribute that load, I
thought? Many, as you would rightly expect.
As far back as the 1860s army medical services were
concerned that too many soldiers were sustaining permanent
debilitating injury from the loads they were expected to carry,
to the extent that too many dropped by the wayside on an
advance to battle, or were too physically exhausted to contribute
in any meaningful way to the assault. Again in the 1890s after
the experiences of the South African War, with its environment
challenges, amongst others, military committee examined
the subject of lighter combat loads and better load carrying
equipment. Changes were made and the soldier of WW1 was
issued with a “state of the art” set of load carrying equipment.
50

The same happened before WW2 after the experiences of The
Great European War, as WW1 was known and again after each
successive campaign to date.
What was the average weight the soldier was expected to carry
that overloaded him and seriously reduced his combat efficiency?
British, European and American studies from the outset all arrive
at a weight of 55 to 60 lbs. At first glance this may not appear
too great a load, especially when distributed about the soldier’s
body. But it’s the pre-assault loading of extra ammunition (for
personal and support weapons), combat breaching (grenades
and explosives), and defence stores (sandbags, wire and pickets),
the introduction of steel helmets and gas masks, plus all the
other “little items”, today as then, that are deemed useful in
assault but not regularly carried, that push the load up in excess
of 80lbs. Even surpassing 120lbs during periods in WW1 and
2 and in my experience regularly since. No wonder, with that
load, soldiers failed to decisively capture an objective and even
failed to arrive on objective at all, due to physical exhaustion.
Fortunately after the 1890s, the soldier no longer had to carry a
spare pair of trousers and boots into the assault, but greatcoats
were still carried and 15,000 of them were “dumped” by troops
in one WW1 withdrawal: soaking rain adding 20lbs to an already
very heavy coat.
So what is the ideal combat load? I remember reading Captain
Basil Liddell Hart’s memoires about his experiences of the trenches
and his remarking about how the combat load his soldiers had
to endure kept on increasing. He raised the point that a cavalry
horse to perform at optimum should not be loaded beyond a
quarter of its body weight and that pack mules were restricted to
loads of 1/3 body weight; whereas the poor old infantry regularly
staggered through the sucking mud of no-mans-land loaded with
2/3 body weight. Since then, successive studies into what should
be the optimal combat load for an infantryman have arrived at
a figure of 1/3 body weight, on average 35 to 40lbs, in order
to reduce fatigue and maintain a soldier’s battlefield agility,
endurance, and effectiveness.
From my chance encounter with a company of Paratroopers
on a country road in Colchester it would seem that in 2017 we
have still not managed to attain that elusive “magic” combat
load figure. As such, our soldiers are loaded up just as much as
their forebears were 2000 years ago: Taliban heard in radio traffic
referring to patrolling British troops as “tortoises” or “camels” as
they regularly patrolled with loads in excess of 50lbs. Perhaps
though, soldiers of today can take comfort from the fact that a
soldier on the eve of the battle of the Somme in 1916 was loaded
with 80 – 100lbs of equipment, whereas our modern Universal
Soldier equivalent in 2017 carries an 80 – 100lbs burden of
“lightweight” equipment.
References: B H Liddell Hart Memoire, Volume 1 and The
Soldiers Load: Historical Data, Appendix 1 to Annex A, HB (A)/
CM/6/3, Dated 5 January 2004
Our thanks go to Peter Bing MIExpE, Specialist Security and
Operational Support Adviser for kindly letting us reproduce this
article.
SPECIAL REPORT: A SOLDIER’S LOAD
pmcimagazine.com

SELLING WAR
The phrase “Information is Power” is commonly attributed to
Sir Francis Bacon, although there is no known occurrence of this
precise phrase in Bacon’s English or Latin writings. However,
the expression “ipsa scientia potestas est” (‘knowledge itself is
power’) occurs in Bacon’s “Meditationes Sacrae” from 1597. The
secreting or hoarding of knowledge or information may be an
act of tyranny camouflaged as humility. Information is indeed
power if disseminated effectively, but poor communication can
lead not to power doing good, but effectively evil.
In the spring of 2004, army reservist and public affairs officer
Steven J Alvarez waited to be called up as the U.S. military
stormed Baghdad and deposed Saddam Hussein. But soon after
President Bush’s famous PR stunt in which an aircraft carrier
displayed the banner “Mission Accomplished,” the dynamics of
the war shifted.
“Selling War” recounts how the U.S. military lost the information
war in Iraq by engaging the wrong audiences, namely the
Western media, ignoring Iraqi citizens and the wider Arab
population, and playing mere lip service to the directive:
“put an Iraqi face on everything.” In the absence of effective
communication from the U.S. military, the information void
was swiftly filled by Al Qaeda and, eventually, ISIS. As a result,
efforts to create and maintain a successful, stable country were
complicated and eventually frustrated.
Steven J Alvarez couples his experiences as a public affairs
officer in Iraq with extensive research on communication and
government relations to expose why communications failed and
led to the breakdown on the ground. A revealing glimpse into
the inner workings of the military’s PR machine, where personnel
become stewards of presidential legacies and keepers of flawed
policies, “Selling War” provides a critical review of the outdated
communication strategies executed in Iraq. Alvarez’s candid
account demonstrates how a fundamental lack of understanding
about how to wage an information war has led to the conditions
we face now: the rise of ISIS and the return of western military
and private security forces to Iraq.
Book Review
Steven J. Alvarez retired as a major from the U.S. Army Reserve
after serving twenty-four years in the officer and enlisted ranks,
on active duty as well as in the National Guard and Reserve.
A recipient of the Bronze Star and the Combat Action Badge,
during his military career he served as a commander of an Army
public affairs detachment as well as the public affairs officer for
several general officers and presidential appointees, including
David Petraeus. In the private sector, Alvarez works as a freelance
writer and public relations professional.
Hardcover: 384 pages
Publisher: Potomac Books (30 Mar. 2016)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 161234772X
ISBN-13: 978-1612347721
pmcimagazine.com

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AKE Group
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Ambrey Risk
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Antipirates.Org
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APPDS
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Aquatic Marine Ltd
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Protect Asia Group
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Secopex
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Aspida
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Associated Risk Maritime Risk Management
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Bancroft Maritime Security Solutions
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Bechtel Corporation
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Black Pearl
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Blackstone Consultancy
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Blue Hackle
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Blue Waters Partners Global
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BP Global
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Britam Defence
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British Maritime Solutions
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BW Offshore
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Calibre International Security
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Chilport
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Chiron Resources
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Clearwater Special Projects
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Control Risks
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Decatur Maritime Security
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54

Drum Cussac
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Dryad Maritime
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Edinburgh International
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Elite Maritime Protection Services
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EOS Risk Management
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Erus Maritime
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Espada
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Ex Military Recruitment
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Exploration Logistics Group
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G4S Maritime
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Genesis Security Group
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Global Executive Outreach
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Global Risk Security
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Global Solace
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Global Strategies Group
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Grail Security
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Halliburton
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Halogen Security
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Hart Maritime
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Hill & Associates
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HP TerraMarine International
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Hudson Trident
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ICTS
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IMSA Ltd
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International Executive Recruiting
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International Maritime Security
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International Maritime Security
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International Security Network
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ISC Gulf
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ISSG Sea Marshalls
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Janusian Risk Advisory Group
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Kroll
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Longmoor Group
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Lotus Maritime Security
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Lotus Projects
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Maersk
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Magregor Protection Services
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March Security
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MUSC
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Naval Guards
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Neptune Security
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NNK Group
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NYA International
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Ocean Marshalls
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Ocean Protective Services
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Maritime Risk International
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Marsec
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MAST
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McRoberts Maritime Security
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Merchant Maritime Warfare Centre
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Minimal Risk
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MSS
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MTResolution
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Oceaneering International
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Olchon
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Olive Group
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Orchid Security
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Oxberry Risk Strategies
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Pilgrim Group
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Pilgrim Security
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Pistris
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56

Protect Asia Group
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PVI Ltd
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Raven Special Projects Ltd
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Red Cell Security
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Redfour-MSS
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Saladin Security Group
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SMS
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Tor International
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Trojan Securities International
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Orchid Security
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Blackstone Consultancy
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Pilgrim Group
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Maritime Risk International
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International Maritime Security
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Raven Special Projects Ltd
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Salamanca Risk Management
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Sea Marshalls Ltd UK
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SEAL
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Securescot
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Securewest International
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Security Networking Events
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Securoquest
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Shield Risk Consulting
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Shipguard
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SMS
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SPS
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Tactical Intel
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Thalassic
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Tor International
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Torcuss
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Trojan Securities
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