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When your pistol is capable of flatter shooting, improved accuracy is a typical result. Everything is better, from target acquisition to follow-up shots to comfort. And, of course, there’s greater precision. The Shadow Systems Thread-On Compensator is designed to make your Shadow Systems 9mm pistol do all those things. Using a compensator such as this one is a great way to improve the overall performance of your handgun whether you’re using it at the range or for defense purposes.

The Thread-On Compensator is designed to be compatible with many of their 9mm pistols with threaded barrels. It is made for a seamless fit with the gun’s slide for aesthetic purposes and to reduce the risk of snagging. It’s compatible with the company’s MR920, DR920, and XR920 pistol lines and, in fact, fits all models of these platforms, such as the Elite, Combat, War Poet, and Foundation Series.

This compensator is created to significantly improve shot times from the first shot to follow-ups. Once the compensator is properly installed, shooters feel less recoil, which also means a more comfortable live-fire experience.

The Shadow Systems Thread-On Compensator is attached using a rock-solid clamping system designed so it will not damage the threads of the barrel. Many other thread-on compensator designs on the market can damage the threads, but the company states that the way this product was made eliminates that risk. It also has a conservative port size for reliability with full-powered ammunition. The top-side single port also reduces muzzle blast to the sides which makes it more firing-line friendly. It’s meant to work with a standard factory-weight recoil spring in compatible models, however, a lighter 15-pound spring is also available.

For those interested in compensated pistols, don’t forget the Shadow Systems DR920P pistol, which has an integrated compensator. The launch of the Shadow Systems Thread-On Compensator brings this product to market in a new way with what the manufacturer states is the strongest clamp-on compensator in the industry. This product brings the performance of the DR920P to all compatible Shadow Systems 9mm pistols.

Features of the Shadow Systems Thread-On Compensator include:

• 9x19mm Parabellum compatible.
• Compatible with Shadow Systems MR920, DR920, and XR920 pistol lines and models within the families such as the Elite, Combat, War Poet, and Foundation Series.
• Easy-to-attach threaded design.
• Made so proper use won’t damage the threads of the barrel.
• Rock solid attachment system for superior performance and reliability.
• Creates a flatter shooting pistol.
• Improves accuracy.
• Makes live fire more comfortable by reducing felt recoil and muzzle rise.
• Speeds up shot-to-shot time.
• Matte black finish.

MSRP for the Shadow Systems Thread-On Compensator is set at $99.99.

SilencerCo has expanded its multicaliber line-up with its low back-pressure suppressor, the Velos LBP. According to SilencerCo, the Velos LBP offers exceptional sound performance for the 5.56 caliber with minimized back pressure for the host weapon for less gas blow-back.

The Velos was constructed with a process that has a 3D-printed Inconel 625 core fully welded to 17-4 Stainless Steel front and rear modules. The construction helps make the Velos SilencerCo’s most durable suppressor, thanks in part to the patented Hoplon blast baffle. The baffle helps deflect any debris in the suppressor and increases the service life of the suppressor on short-barreled or full-auto firearms.

“Our goal was to bring the best balance of sound performance, strength, and reduced impact to the host firearm’s operating system. We’ve created a product that does just that. There is no compromising sound or flash performance with the Velos LBP. The inclusion of our Hoplon blast baffle design and no barrel restrictions confirms the Velos LBP will handle whatever you choose to throw at it. It’s the low back-pressure silencer your semi and fully automatic firearms have been waiting for.”

The Velos is rated for full-auto fire with no barrel restrictions, which is unique. To go along with the heat from the full-auto fire, the suppressor is finished in a V-Series Cerakote that can hold up against that heat. While the suppressor ships with the updated Internal Charlie flash hider front cap, it is compatible with any of the Charlie mounting accessories.

The Velos from SilencerCo weighs just over 15 ounces and adds less than 6” to the length of the host weapon, making it a great choice for any shooter. It ships with the Charlie flash hider front cap, a Charlie ASR mount, Charlie flash hider in 1/2×28, a spanner wrench, a Charlie tool, and a lifetime warranty.

The SilencerCo Velos LBP 5.56 caliber suppressor has an MSRP of $1,174.

Thermal optics are fantastic for night operations such as hunting feral hogs or predators. This type of optic has come a long way since the early days, and companies like ATN continue to make strides in design and innovation. The ATN Thor 5 XD is a great example of the many things a thermal optic can do. It’s packed full of features made to perform and turn your next outing into a success.

ATN states they designed the Gen 5 to build on the proven success rate and popularity of the ThOR line of thermal. The family of optics utilizes cutting-edge technology to deliver superior quality with a smaller profile, meaning it’s easier to maneuver and less likely to bump into objects during use. Gen 5 has it all from more power and memory to the latest sensors and chips so it’s a giant leap forward in thermal technology.

The Gen 5 thermal optics run smoother thanks to a new Quad Core processor with enhanced sensors. These sensors serve to facilitate fantastic image quality whether the optic is being used night or day. Greater clarity in images means easier target identification and is also easier on the hunter’s eyes. After all, precision is exceptionally important for hunters for a clean, ethical kill, and that requires enhanced images. ATN also accomplishes this by using a high-resolution OLED display for improved color, all in the name of identification.

Other features include upgraded lenses, improved 12 μm technology, and enhanced algorithms that deliver sharper resolution. The ThOR XD utilizes further enhances images and overall performance with a 1280×1024, 60Hz 12 micron, ultrasensitive HD thermal sensor while the ThOR 5 320 and ThOR 5 640 models utilize a 320×240 60 fps or 640×480 60 fps sensor.

Features of the ATN Gen 5 XD include:

• Ballistic calculator.
• 1280 x 1024 60 fps μm.
• First 1.3-megapixel thermal sensor.
• Built-in laser rangefinder so hunters can accurately determine distance to targets.
• Video recording to capture the hunt using recoil-activated smart recording.
• Reticle editor, which enables hunters to create custom reticles that can be shared with friends.
• MIL-DOT reticle.
• HD video for greater clarity.
• Dual-stream video.
• IOS and Android compatible to broaden control and use.
• Radar technology.
• E-compass.
• Capable of human detection range out to 4,000 yards (model dependent).
• Smooth operating zoom for quick, easy magnification of targets.
• Weather resistant.
• One-shot zero for fast zeroing which comes in handy when using one thermal for multiple rifles.

This generation of thermals is designed to make target identification and accuracy even better than before, and all are backed by ATN’s three-year warranty. ATN is known for producing affordably priced thermal, and with this new generation they’ve taken their optics’ performance to the next level.

MSRP for ATN Gen 5 thermal varies by specific model and features.

Shadow Systems, an American-based firearms manufacturer, has taken its popular DR920 9mm pistol and given it an upgrade to the refreshed model named the DR920L. The DR920L gives the shooter the edge when accuracy and speed matter, according to Shadow Systems.

The 9mm striker-fired pistol is built on the Shadow-System-tested DR full-sized frame, with a 5.3” barrel and full sight radius to make the company’s fastest uncompensated design. Shadow Systems states the DR920L has best-in-class accuracy and control with rapid fire.

The 416R stainless spiral fluted match-grade barrel fits inside the 17-4 stainless steel slide for an overall pistol length of 7.25”. The slide has top serrations, window cuts, and directional serrations at the front and rear. The rear black serrated sight has a tritium dot with a green outline front sight for easier target acquisition. If that’s not enough, the slide is optics-cut to accommodate most red dot sights directly on the slide without an adapter.

To go along with the accuracy and control, the frame has interchangeable backstraps. These allow the shooter to adjust the grip angle to fit their natural shooting position. The grip also features an extended beavertail and aggressive trigger guard undercut to reduce recoil and add to the controllability. The aggressive wrap-around texture on the frame keeps the pistol firmly in place for solid shooting.

The DR920L features a drop-safe aluminum trigger with a flat face. It has a crisp, tactile reset with about a 4.5-pound trigger pull. It weighs just over 22 ounces and has a magazine capacity of 17+1.

The DR920L is said to be compatible with holsters designed for the G34. The DR920L 9mm pistol from Shadow Systems has an MSRP of $1,175.

With the popularity of pistol caliber carbines and lightweight AR-style rifles, Blue Force Gear has upgraded its offerings aimed directly at those consumers wanting lighter and slimmer slings. Taking the previously limited-edition Vickers SMG Sling and making it a permanent member of their line-up as the Vickers ONE Sling, Blue Force Gear also upgraded the GMT Sling family to include a 1” option.

GMT 1” Sling

The 1” GMT sling is great for shooters who want a tailed sling. It uses a custom double-locking buckle interface that is manufactured and designed from durable and rust-free glass-filled nylon. The adjuster allows for consistent tension for both tightening or loosening the sling, and it stays in place until the user wants it to move.

The adjuster is a main feature of the GMT sling with stops sewn into the tails of the sling that keep it together. BFG uses a proprietary solution dyed Cordura nylon webbing to keep the thickness and softness needed for a comfortable sling and keep it from rolling when in use. The material works well with the adjuster under tension and reduces the chance of being a snag hazard.

The Blue Force Gear GMT 1” sling is available in black, coyote brown, Multicam, Wolf gray, and Ranger green for $44.95, while Multicam tropic, Multicam black, and Woodland camo for $49.95.

Vickers One Sling

BFG took the Vickers sling and trimmed it down to create the Vickers One Sling. The Vickers One was designed for pistol caliber carbines and SMG but is compatible with most one-inch sling attachment hardware, including BFG’s Push Button Swivels, sling hooks, and the ULoop.

Featuring the BFG exclusive 1-inch Zytel nylon hardware and Invista solution-dye Cordura, the Vickers One sling is a durable option that is 100% made in the US with US-made materials. The Vickers One sling has all the features of the Combat Application Sling but in a minimalist design that is smaller and lighter than the original. According to BFG, the Vickers One weighs 23% less than the original Vickers Sling, so for folks looking for an option for their lightweight build, this is it.

Able to transition between carry sling and combat ready, the Vickers One is available in two models: the Base model and the Dual Push Button model. The base model utilizes triglides on the front and rear for direct attachment to sling swivels. The Dual Push Button model is constructed with a push button sling swivel in the front and a captive swivel in the rear.

Both models of the Vickers One sling are available in black, coyote brown, and Multicam with a price tag of $49.95. The Dual Push Button model has a price tag of $79.95.

FN America (FNA) is giving folks a preview at SHOT Show 2023 of its current program that is in the works, the Lightweight Intermediate Caliber Cartridge (LICC) Individual Weapon System (IWS) built on the 6.5x43mm, or .264, round.

The IWS system was built around the key necessities of the Lightweight ammunition family, an improved performance carbine, a 25-round purpose-built polymer magazine, and a signature suppressor. All the items were built for the program including the rifle, and it also added a belt-fed Assault Machine gun to the program.

The cartridge for the system was originally developed by the US Army Marksmanship Unit, or the AMU, but was optimized by FNA. Collaborating with IWTSD, US & Canada SOF, and AMU, FNA worked to establish the overall shape, capacity, and performance.

Inside the IWS is a long-stroke piston operating system, which isn’t utilized nearly as much as in years past. It has a three-lug bolt interface for additional strength. The key feature for the reliability of the system is a self-regulating gas block, meaning the end user won’t have to adjust whether shooting it suppressed or unsuppressed.

Initial reports say that the IWS will be available in three interchangeable configurations, a 1.5” CQB, 14.5” carbine, and 18.5” Recce (marksmanship rifle) with weights ranging from seven to nine pounds unloaded.  The IWS has fully ambidextrous controls for easier shooting by different-handed shooters. Additional ambi controls are present for the bolt catch and release system.

FNA also developed a two-stage select fire precision trigger system and a self-contained operating system within the rifle. The rifle has a non-reciprocating charging handle and a single lever takedown operation for rapid field stripping or maintenance.

On the outside, the IWS features a continuous 12-o’clock handguard one-piece Picatinny rail for easier mounting of accessories along with multiple Quick Detachment points. The system can be shot with the stock folded or unfolded. Additionally, the user can select whether it is a left or right-side folding stock.

While the system is still under development, there have been reports that the AWG has shown to be more accurate than the Mk48 in the full-auto mode. Not only that, but testers have observed almost 79% more impact energy over the M4 with better handling with the IWS.

Supposedly, FNA will deliver 55 LICC IWS in the three different configurations and a few AMG, with ammunition, to the US and Canadian Governments for testing. This helps open the door for faster adoption of the systems with a potential additional delivery of products this fall.

LICC IWS & AMG will be on display in FN America’s booth at SHOT Show at booth #11860. Meetings are available for “qualified representatives.”

Upland bird hunters require shotguns to be highly maneuverable, comfortable, reliable, and capable of performing at the distances required by the moment. It’s that latter point that takes many models out of the running for hunting purposes, especially if you’re running a sub-gauge. Enter the Beretta 28 Gauge A400 Upland Magnum, a 28 gauge shotgun made specifically for upland bird hunters that has a 3-inch chamber. This shotgun doesn’t just get the job done, it does it in harder-hitting style.

Beretta says the 28 Gauge A400 Upland Magnum perfectly blends the classic Upland line aesthetic with modern touches. This shotgun is made to look good and perform beyond the hunter’s expectations. From the beautiful wooden stock and forend to the brushed finish and engraving on the receiver, this is a gun made in homage to the legendary shotguns bird hunters have used for decades.

The 28 Gauge A400 Upland Magnum offers a bevy of bird-hunting-friendly features. It has a vented rib which many shotgunners enjoy for its ability to draw the eye to the point of aim to the factory front sight. In addition, this shotgun utilizes Beretta’s Kick Off Plus technology which is designed to reduce felt recoil by up to 50%. That’s an especially important feature when running the bigger two-inch shotshells through this gun. As for that three-inch chamber, it’s excellent for versatility. It allows hunters to use light dove loads or heavier duck waterfowl ammo, depending on the target.

Features of the Beretta 28 Gauge A400 Upland Magnum include:

• 28 gauge.
• Three-inch chamber, so hunters can use 2 3/4-inch or 3-inch shotshells.
• Designed for versatility.
• Wooden stock and forend for aesthetics and classic appearance.
• Checkering on stock and forend for a better grip with wet hands.
• Brushed nickel-plated receiver with engravings of upland birds and the gauge.
• Kick Off Plus technology reduces felt recoil by as much as 50%, which also decreases muzzle rise.
• 28-inch barrel for superior ballistics and accuracy.
• Made to be incredibly well-balanced.
• Compatible with Beretta’s OptimaChoke HP chokes.
• Cross-bolt external safety.
• Vented rib for easier target acquisition and better cooling during live fire.
• Clean, smooth trigger pull with short re-set.

This shotgun is designed to be the kind of gun hunters pass down to future generations. And, according to Beretta, it drops birds reliably. What do you think, will this 3-inch chamber sub-gauge be the next addition to your collection?

MSRP for the Beretta 28 Gauge A400 Upland Magnum shotgun is set at $1829.00.

The Beretta A300 Ultimate Patrol is made specifically for defensive use and offers a bevy of features for defensive use. From easy-to-operate controls to superior maneuverability, Beretta designed this shotgun to perform. If you rely on a shotgun to defend your life or the lives of your loved ones, you need a reliable gun. The A300 Ultima Patrol is well worth checking out.

According to Beretta, this shotgun is made to elevate your tactical, defensive setup to the next level. The A300 Ultima Patrol is engineered to be fantastically reliable and easy to manipulate, even in dynamic situations. It offers quite a few excellent features including the classic mechanisms of the venerable A300 platform that so many gun owners rely on.

This new defense-oriented shotgun has it all, from enlarged controls to an enhanced loading port. In addition, the A300 Ultima Patrol has a slimmer forend with multiple M-Lok and QD sling mounting points, making it easy to customize according to the user’s preferences and needs. It has a 7+1-shot extended magazine tube capacity and the tube itself is secured by a custom barrel clamp with integral M-Lok capability. 

This 12 gauge shotgun has a three-inch chamber, meaning shooters can run it with either 2 3/4-inch or 3-inch shotshells. The barrel itself is 19.1 inches long, making the gun’s overall length 38.0 inches. This means the gun offers the ballistics needed from its 12 gauge chambering to be a capable defensive tool while remaining just short enough to be highly maneuverable in close-quarters scenarios. Its empty weight is 7 lbs., 1 oz., so it remains light enough for portability and easy manipulation.

One of the details that makes this shotgun more tactical-inclined is the fact that although it ships with factory irons, it’s red dot ready thanks to a Picatinny rail located in front of the rear iron sight. The use of a Picatinny rail broadens the optics options substantially and makes it easier to fine-tune the gun to do precisely what the shooter wants. M-LOK mounting slots on the forend make it possible to add aftermarket accessories such as a weapon-mounted light or laser. Also, the factory QD mounts mean it’s a simple process to add a sling to your kit.

Features of the Beretta A300 Ultima Patrol include:

• 12 gauge.
• Three-inch chamber for use of 2 3/4 inch or 3-inch shotshells.
• 19.1 barrel length for solid ballistics while remaining short enough to maneuver.
• Fixed stock.
• M-LOK compatible slots on the forend for aftermarket accessories.
• Picatinny rail in front of rear sight for the addition of optics.
• QD mounting points for easy attachment of a sling.
• Designed to be sleek to reduce the risk of snags.
• Oversized controls for easy operation under stress or while wearing gloves.
• Enhanced ejection port for reliable cycling even during rapid fire.

MSRP for the Beretta A300 Ultima Patrol is set at $1099.00.

Gemtech, the company considered by many to be a leader in innovation and visionary designs, is launching the Abyss 5.56 suppressor and the Neutron 7.62 suppressor. That’s right, whether you prefer the AR-15 or the AR-10, there’s a new suppressor for you.

Gemtech Abyss 5.56 Suppressor

According to the manufacturer, the incredible durability of the Abyss sets the standard for heavy use. The Abyss is built for superior performance using five of Gemtech’s patent-pending technologies. Its many design features allow rounds to be fired while gasses from those rounds expand into the baffle spaces, which in turn lowers pressure. By lowering pressure, things like muzzle flash are minimized, and decibels are significantly reduced.

The Abyss is made to lessen back pressure by pushing the gasses created by live fire forward, meaning there’s less coming back at the shooter. This suppressor is constructed from stainless steel and titanium components and made with increased wall thickness. It’s easily mounted to barrels with direct thread or by using Gemtech’s proprietary flash hider, the ETM (Elite Taper Mount). Gemtech says the Abyss is fully rated for short barrels and full-auto operation.

Gemtech Neutron 7.62 Suppressor

The Gemtech 7.62 Neutron utilizes four of the company’s patent-pending technologies. As its name suggests, it’s compatible with 300 Win Mag. This is a 6.6-inch suppressor that’s tough enough to handle full-auto. It’s also light enough not to throw off the balance of your gun or to add unnecessary bulk. The Neutron is compatible with HUB 1.375-24 thread standards and a variety of mounting hardware. For simplicity, it ships with Gemtech’s ETM for precise alignment and resistance to carbon lock. The Neutron has a tubeless construction to eliminate unneeded weight and a high-efficiency baffle design for stellar noise reduction.

Gemtech GVAC Upper Receiver Group

If you’re a dedicated suppressor shooter, or just want to get into it in the best way possible, check out the Gemtech GVAC Upper Receiver Group. The GVAC is specifically designed for suppressed use to give you better results on target.

According to the manufacturer, the barrel and gas system of this upper reduce blowback and mitigate felt recoil. This, in turn, makes shooting suppressed more comfortable and creates more accurate results down range. The upper’s newly designed 16.1-inch barrel profile also transfers weight back toward the shooter for greater control.

The GVAC is fitted for Gemtech’s proprietary flash hider, the ETM. Features of the GVAC include a self-regulating Direct-Impingement system with an additional chamber for the purpose of collecting and countering gasses produced during live fire. It has a 15-inch lightweight handguard with a Picatinny top rail and seven-sided M-LOK slots, making it easy to add aftermarket accessories as desired.

MSRP for the Gemtech Abyss is $849.00, the Neutron is $829.00, and the GVAC Upper Receiver Group is $839.00.