Stern Defense has given AR users another option for buttstock usage on their rifles. The Rapid Attach Buttstock Adapter, or RAB-AD, is a device that is installed on the buffer tube and lower receiver that allows the user to attach or detach the buttstock quickly.
According to Stern Defense, the Rapid Attach Buttstock Adapter allows the user to greatly reduce the overall length of the rifle for easy and compact storage or transportation. It all happens within a few seconds, making it a breeze. The RAB-AD is designed, machined, and assembled in the U.S.
Stern Defense has another option for AR users with the RAB-AD, or Rapid Attach Buttstock Adapter, for quick and easy detachment of the buttstock from the buffer and lower receiver. The RAB-AD adds only 3.5 ounces and 1.25″ overall to the host rifle. (Photo credit: Stern Defense)
The RAB-AD has a hard-coated anodized 7075 aluminum body for maximum wear protection. The internals is constructed from steel for additional strength while keeping the overall weight to a minimum. The overall weight of the Rapid Attach Buttstock Adapter is 3.5 ounces and adds 1.25” to the length of pull of the host rifle.
The RAB-AD detaches with a push of a button and a quick counter-clockwise turn. When the buttstock is detached, the adapter has a buffer retainer to keep the buffer weight and spring in the tube securely. To attach the buttstock, line it up and rotate it clockwise. The adapter features a steel locking mechanism that secures it automatically.
RAB-AD Features:
Designed, machined, and assembled in the U.S.A.
7075 aluminum body and steel internals for lightweight strength.
Hard coat anodized for maximum wear protection.
Buffer retainer to keep the buffer weight in the tube while disassembled.
Buffer spacer compatible with all standard-length AR-15 bolts.
RAB-AD weighs 3.5 ounces.
Adds 1.25 inches to the length of pull on the rifle.
The Stern Defense Rapid Attach Buttstock Adapter does not require any modifications to the host rifle, and the adapter comes with the required Armorers tool for installation. It is compatible with AR firearms with direct impingement, direct blowback, radial delayed blowback, and gas piston systems. Word of note from Stern Defense that the RAB-AD is compatible with the JP silent capture spring but not with BCGs that have a flared boss at the tail of the carrier. They state that the BCG (bolt carrier group) tail must be .950” or smaller.
The Rapid Attach Buttstock Adapter from Stern Defense comes with an MSRP of $139.95.
A successful hunt requires the correct ammunition. That means finding ammo that makes ethical one-shot kills not only possible but standard, so long as you provide the shot placement. It means ammo that’s accurate, expands reliably, and cycles well. That’s why HSM Ammo produces Tipping Point 2. It’s optimized for hunters and made to perform as needed so you can trust your ammunition on your next hunt. After all, you don’t want the perfect shot ruined by subpar ammo.
HSM Ammo’s Tipping Point2 line is designed for deadly accuracy. (Photo credit: HSM Ammo)
According to the manufacturer, what makes Tipping Point2 so impressive is the combination of Hornady SST (Super Shock Tip) bullets and HSM’s more than 50 years of experience designing and producing highly accurate, reliable ammunition.
The bullet used in this ammunition features an HSM orange polymer tip that’s specifically made to facilitate expansion upon impact by driving itself into the lead core like a wedge. This process creates lightning-fast, yet carefully controlled, expansion.
In addition, the use of what the ammo maker describes as a pioneering secant ogive design with a tapered point improves overall ballistics. It delivers thanks to its specially created bearing surface and aerodynamic profile which works in tandem with a boattail base, so the SST is even more efficient. With HSM Ammo’s Tipping Point2, hunters get less drag, greater stability, and superior accuracy.
HSM Ammo states their Tipping Point2 line of ammunition is deadly accurate and capable of creating a substantial wound channel. Add that to the promised accuracy of this ammo and you have the perfect recipe for a fantastic hunt. This ammunition is made from quality materials with strict attention to detail and high expectations for consistent, superior overall performance. Whatever caliber you choose, HSM Ammo’s Tipping Point2 can help you fill the freezer with your game meat of choice.
Every component used in HSM Ammo is carefully chosen for the best possible results. (Photo credit: HSM Ammo)
HSM Ammo Tipping Point2 Features
Orange polymer tip, which is the classic HSM color. It also means that on impact, the hard tip drives itself back into the lead core of the bullet for fast, reliable expansion.
Secant ogive, boattail profile. This design increases the bullet’s bearing surface and creates a more aerodynamic profile. These key features create a more stable, flatter-shooting bullet.
A mid-body cannelure is used to keep the core and jacket together for superior performance while also providing a secure crimp during the loading process.
InterLock Ring. This detail mechanically locks the core and jacket together which serves to maintain bullet integrity during expansion which is a must for good weight retention and consistent performance.
Calibers Offered
243 Winchester
6.5mm Creedmoor
270 Winchester
7mm-08 Remington
308 Winchester
.30-06 Springfield
MSRP for the HSM Ammo Tipping Point 2 line varies by caliber and quantity.
Whether you’re focused on self-defense or looking for your next competition gun, the Sig Sauer P320-XFIVE DH3 is well worth a closer look. This pistol was designed with care by the team at Sig Sauer to deliver a stellar performance for a variety of applications. It’s made to be accurate, comfortable to shoot, and versatile. The P320-XFIVE DH3 was made for speed, and the gun maker says it performs as promised, and then some.
The Sig Sauer P320-XFIVE DH3 is designed for tactical applications. (Photo credit: Sig Sauer)
This pistol is the result of Sig Custom Works’ dedication to detail and a collaborative effort with Team Sig’s Daniel Horner. According to the manufacturer, the P320-XFIVE DH3 is made to offer an ideal blend of competition and tactical features. From its muzzle to the floorplates of its mags, this is a gun created for superior performance and speed. Sig Sauer states it was built from the DNA of the venerable P320-XFIVE LEGION and offers a host of fantastic features including an optic-ready stylized slide with suppressor height X-RAY3 day/night sights. Those factory standard sights are also ready to co-witness with whatever red dot you choose to add to the gun.
The gun was designed in collaboration with Team Sig’s Daniel Horner. (Photo credit: Sig Sauer)
Details like the TXG tungsten-infused heavy XFULL grip module are made to last with details such as a Cerakoted Coyote Tan finish. The grip module also has a Silicon Carbide treatment to provide the best possible grip, even with wet hands. The P320-XFIVE DH3 has a 5-inch match-grade bull barrel with a one-piece stainless steel guide rod. It ships with both a 14-pound and 12-pound 1911-style recoil spring, allowing shooters to customize their shooting experience. Three 21-round steel magazines are included. This gun is ready for anything and excels at delivering speed, precision, and capacity.
The P320-XFIVE DH3 has a host of features that make it great for competition, self-defense, or range time. (Photo credit: Sig Sauer)
Sig Sauer P320-XFIVE DH3 Features
DH3 Silicon Carbide Treated Coyote Cerakote TXG Grip Module for a sure grip, long-lasting comfort, and solid aesthetics.
Custom Works optics ready DH3 slide allows mounting a red dot sight to the gun without a gunsmith or adding a plate.
5-inch bull barrel for improved accuracy.
Chambered in 9x19mm Parabellum.
An overall length of 8.5 inches.
Empty weight is 43.5 ounces.
21 +1 capacity.
Flared magazine well to assist with rapid magazine changes.
Accessory rail ahead of the trigger guard.
Ridged controls for reliable manipulation.
Slide cut for a flatter shooting gun, which also cools the barrel more quickly.
Extended beavertail grip to facilitate a high, tight grip.
Flat face trigger to sharpen trigger control.
Forward and rearward slide serrations to make racking the slide easier.
Striker fired action.
1.6 inch overall width which is a good, versatile size for a variety of shooters.
Night sights designed for co-witnessing with red dot sight come standard.
This pistol is designed to be flat-shooting and fast. (Photo credit: Sig Sauer)
What do you think of this iteration of the P320 family of pistols? Tell us your thoughts in the comment section.
MSRP for the Sig Sauer P320-XFIVE DH3 is set at $1399.00.
Kat Ainsworth Stevens is a long-time outdoor writer, official OGC (Original Gun Cognoscenti), and author of Handgun Hunting: a Comprehensive Guide to Choosing and Using the Right Firearms for Big and Small Game. Der Teufel Katze has written for a number of industry publications (print and online) and edited some of the others, so chances are you’ve seen or read her work before, somewhere. A woman of eclectic background and habits, Kat has been carrying concealed for over two decades, used to be a farrier, and worked for a long time in emergency veterinary medicine. She prefers big bores, enjoys K9 Search & Rescue, and has a Master’s Degree in Pitiless Snarkastic Delivery.
Winchester ammo has been around for a while. The company has been in business for more than 150 years since its founding by Oliver Winchester. They became a legendary name when they designed and produced the lever action 1873 rifle. They would become a household name when it came to lever action rifles and shotguns. They are also well known today as an ammunition manufacturer.
Winchester 5.56, 55-grain target ammo is perfect for a day on the range or zeroing in that new red dot.
The combination of ammunition can almost be endless. Brand, grain, bullet design and more can all make selections difficult depending on what you need in a bullet. You may not want to target practice with a premium high-end bullet. But you also may not want to hunt and take that 500-yard shot with a low-grade target round. Different types of ammunition have different purposes. So, what can you use target ammo for? Let’s look at what it can do and what its limitations are.
What can I use Winchesters M193 target ammo for?
There are a few different purposes for ammunition types. Some of the biggest categories are self-defense, hunting, competition shooting, recreational shooting, and combat shooting. During my first tactical firearms instructor school, they talked a great deal about the difference between precision accuracy and combat accuracy. Combat accuracy is shooting center mass at faster speeds, not hitting the bullseye. Precision accuracy is hitting the intended mark or bullseye and keeping a small group.
Why is there a difference? Both types of ammo and both types of shooting have a purpose. If your intent for a round is self-defense, you won’t need a high-precision bullet made to travel 700 yards and hit within a two-inch group. You will need it to be reliable and combat-accurate. If you are hunting, you need higher precision. Winchester’s 5.56 target ammo is not what I would use for long-range precision shooting, but it works great for range practice, and I like to use it in the AR pistols that I stay within 200 yards with.
Ballistics for beginners
If you are new to ammo, some of the most important things to look at are the bullet grain and muzzle velocity. The M193 is a 55-grain (grain is the weight of the bullet) and has a muzzle velocity of 3180 fps (feet per second). Unfortunately, there is not one good bullet for all guns. The length of the barrel, barrel twist, temperature, humidity, and more will all have a different effect on each different type of bullet. In general, 55 and 64 grain are the most common for 5.56mm bullets. Without getting too in-depth into the ballistics, let’s look at the velocity and how it affects distance.
Target ammo may not be the best for long-range shooting or hunting, but it makes great general-purpose ammo that is reliable, clean-burning, and accurate.
When the bullet leaves the barrel, the velocity will change somewhat depending on the barrel length. A longer barrel will burn more of the gasses and thus create more energy. Because of this, an AR-15 pistol will not create as much muzzle energy as a 16” barrel. The starting point is where the bullet leaves the barrel, or muzzle velocity. As the bullet travels it will begin to lose velocity and as it does, it will begin to drop. The heavier the bullet, the faster it begins to drop once it leaves the barrel. But the heavier the bullet, the more energy it will have on impact.
Winchester’s M193 ballistics
As stated above, Winchester’s M193 has a muzzle velocity of 3,180 fps. Below is a chart showing the velocity drop as the bullets travel. You can see a significant decline by the 500-yard mark. This translates to a 3” drop at the 200-yard mark and a 12” drop at the 300-yard mark. As you start looking at the ballistics, you can see how selecting your ammo for the distance you want to shoot is important. When using the M193 target ammo, I like to stay within the 300-yard range before moving to a higher-end bullet.
The muzzle velocity of a bullet will decrease as the bullet travels through the air. This photo shows the Winchester 5.56, 55-grain M193 velocity vs yards. (Photo: Winchester.com)
For general-purpose shooting, running drills, and zeroing in that red dot, the M193 is a great bullet for a quality/cost ratio. There are plenty of brands out there that are cheaper, but I would not recommend the real cheap stuff for sighting in optics. This will only leave you frustrated and endlessly adjusting your optic. The cheaper the ammunition, the lower the quality control in most cases. Quality control is something Winchester does very well.
On the Range
As always, the best way to test something is to see it for yourself. I could look at charts all day, but who wants to do that? A trip to the range is much more fun and lets me see what the ammo will do firsthand. I had an optic that needed to be zeroed in, so this was a good time for that as well. With a lot of my red dots, I start at 50 yards and then move out to 100 to finish zeroing it in. I fired some shots at various distances after that to see how the group would hold up. The Winchester ammo did about as I expected and held some good groups of two inches at 100 yards.
The 55-grain Winchester ammo held good groups out to 200 yards. The target is a great price for the quality of ammo you get.
With cheaper ammo, I have had some bad primers, but this has never been an issue with this ammo. Winchester’s target ammo uses heat-treated casings, and the full-metal jacket provides positive functioning with no expansion. You can get larger boxes, but I like the 20-round boxes for easy access when I’m running out to the range to zero in an optic or run a few drills. When storing boxed ammo, I like to leave it in the box when placing it in an ammo can for the long term. This makes it much easier to grab just the amount you want when you’re headed out the door.
Summary
Winchesters 5.56 Target Ammo is some of the best ammo you can get for the price. It is accurate enough to use for a couple of hundred yards and works great for zeroing in those red dots. For long-range scopes, I think I would use a higher-grade bullet, but those get expensive. This is the perfect ammo for day-to-day range time and shoots clean, so you don’t end the day with black marks all over your hands and gun. So next time you hit the range, buy a box to shoot and of course, a box or two is great to put away for that rainy day.
FN’s dedication to precision and high-quality products is well known. It’s no surprise they took the same approach when it came time to develop the FN Rush 9Ti suppressor, the first suppressor from FN. According to the company, the suppressor was perfected to maintain the exceptional accuracy, cycling reliability, and high durability FN 509 owners expect.
Specs
Suppressor Caliber: 9mm
Length: 7.3″
Tube Diameter: 1.375″
Weight: 10.8 oz.
Piston Threads: 1/2″x28 TPI
The FN Rush 9Ti suppressor was developed to give the shooter an unmatched shooting experience with FN 509 pistols along with other 1/2 x 28 threaded firearms. The suppressor is a constructed lightweight Titanium-hybrid giving the ultimate strength-to-weight ratio in the trim titanium tube. The 7.3” long and 1.375” diameter tube is perfectly suited to clear suppressor-height sights and only weighs 10.8 ounces. The combination of the booster and the light weight means that the additional weight of the suppressor won’t affect the function of the host pistol.
FN has delved into the suppressor realm with the Rush 9Ti suppressor. The titanium suppressor has a lightweight construction and durability that folks have come to expect from FN. [Photo credit: FN USA]
“The FN Rush 9Ti is the first introduction in FN’s portfolio of firearm accessories that enhance the end user’s shooting experience,” said Chris Cole, Vice President of Sales and Marketing for FN America, LLC. “Our goal with developing the Rush 9Ti was to give consumers a reliable and durable 9mm suppressor that met FN’s rigorous quality standards and would integrate seamlessly with the FN 509 and other 9mm hosts. We tackled some of most common complaints about suppressor performance like blowback and recoil reduction to deliver a final product capable of mitigating both.”
Inside the suppressor is a progressively ported aluminum baffle stack along with the blast chamber. The blast chamber is made up of two blast baffles, and the baffle stack diffuses the gas to stabilize the pressure and reduce the blowback. The booster, with its advanced booster assembly, makes attaching smooth and repeatable while the tight piston gas seal contains any carbon fouling in the baffle core to reduce the blowback, recoil, and stoppages that can happen with other suppressors.
The FN Rush 9Ti suppressor is said to work flawlessly with almost every ammunition type, from 115-grain up to 165-grain subsonic loads, and is made to withstand high cycle counts complete with a limited lifetime warranty. The suppressor is available in either Flat Dark Earth or Black HT Cerakote. In the box from FN are the 1/2-x28 piston, booster assembly, end cap, front cap assembly tool, and storage case. The FN Rush 9Ti suppressor has an MSRP of $849.
Precision shooting requires solidly-built chassis, and sometimes shooters choose to up their games by putting a new chassis on their rifle of choice. MDT is known for producing high-quality chassis for a wide variety of rifles, and their MDT TIMBR Frontier for the Tikka T3x SA is a fantastic example of their dedication to well-made parts. Whether you’re into precision shooting or just want to gain an edge on your Tikka, it’s well worth taking a closer look at the MDT TIMBR Frontier.
The MDT TIMBR Chassis for the Tikka T3x SA is made for stability and precision. (Photo credit: MDT)
According to MDT, the TIMBR Frontier Stock is designed to provide shooters with an aesthetically pleasing, yet highly functional, fusion of warm wood and solid aluminum. It’s made specifically for the Tikka T3x SA platform. At the core of the chassis is a full aluminum micro-chassis made to deliver an ideal, rigid platform. The chassis has a number of features included for superior functionality such as an adjustable buttstock to facilitate solid points of contact and an M-LOK rail forend to enable the shooter to add aftermarket accessories.
The chassis is available in a Birch laminate with a charcoal color. (Photo credit: MDT)
The TIMBR Frontier Chassis from MDT is meant for dedicated shooters looking for the fit and feel of a traditional rifle stock with warm wood aesthetics and the bonus of a modern precision rifle chassis system. Each chassis is constructed by the manufacturer from CNC machined 6061 aircraft-grade aluminum that is mounted in hardwood laminate.
Rails and hardware are made using carefully fitted aluminum. MDT utilizes precision aluminum V-block bedding for superior fit and to maximize the accuracy of the rifle’s action. Fit is further enhanced by MDT’s replaceable over-molded and textured grip system. For even greater versatility and customization, both an angled and a vertical grip are included with every system.
The chassis is also offered with a Green Mountain Camo color. (Photo credit: MDT)
Features of the MDT TIMBR Frontier Chassis include:
Laminate stock for durability and resistance to wear and tear.
M-LOK forend for easy mounting of aftermarket accessories such as lights and bipods.
Rubber over-molded grip for a more comfortable feel during live fire.
Tool-free buttpad and cheek riser adjustments so fit can be quickly and easily changed to better fit the shooter.
Foam-covered cheek piece for comfort and a firm cheek weld.
AICS magazine compatible, making it simple to add more mags to your collection.
Ambidextrous magazine latch for ease of operation whether you’re right or left-handed.
Aluminum V-block micro chassis for stability, longevity, and improved function.
Free-floated barrel for greater accuracy due to lessened interference with barrel harmonics.
The buttpad and cheek riser and adjustable and don’t require tools, making them easy to adjust at the range. (Photo credit: MDT)
The chassis is offered in a Birch hardwood laminate with either charcoal or Green Mountain Camo coloring. It has an overall weight of four pounds, meaning it won’t add unnecessary bulk to your setup, and it’s designed to withstand serious use. According to the manufacturer, switching your Tikka T3x SA to this chassis system is simple and doesn’t require the assistance of a gunsmith.
MSRP for the MDT TIMBR Frontier Chassis is set at $899.95.
If you own a handgun you’ve probably spent some time checking out the various aftermarket accessories made for it. There’s a lot out there and each product has a different degree of usefulness. The Max Venom MXP-DW is an accessory made with versatility in mind, and according to the manufacturer, it delivers. The MXP-DW allows handgun owners to customize their guns with a PDW-style chassis without significantly altering their current setup. The part is also useful as a daily carry accessory.
The Max Venom MXP-DW is a versatile aftermarket accessory designed to broaden your handgun use while remaining useful for daily carry. (Photo credit: Max Venom)
According to Max Venom, the MXP-DW is easily attached, quickly removed, and offers multiple uses. As mentioned above, it’s made for shooters who might want a PDW setup on their handgun but don’t want to dramatically alter the way their gun is currently set up. The manufacturer states that one of the big downfalls of standard PDW chassis systems is that they make it impossible for the user to keep their red dot sight on their gun. In addition, extra tools and parts are frequently needed to keep the system attached to the handgun. Not so with the Max Venom MXP-DW.
The MXP-DW can be used as a chassis system or magazine holster. (Photo credit: Max Venom)
This system is made for two uses: as a PDW-style chassis or for holding spare magazines for your daily carry gun. To use it on a Glock 17, which it is compatible with, load a 32-round magazine into the gun. Use a 32-round +20 extended PCC magazine as the extension piece you use to control the gun. For carry, the MXP-DW can hold two mags, one that’s 32 rounds and one that’s 17.
Max Venom states the general outline of the system is similar to the footprint of a Glock 17, making it comfortable to carry and easy to conceal. When being used as a holster holder it can be worn IWB or AIWB.
The above image shows a Glock alongside the accompanying MXP-DW with magazines inserted for chassis use. (Photo credit: Max Venom)
Features of the MXP-DW include:
Works as an IWB/AIWB spare magazine carry holster when not in use as a chassis system.
As a holster, increases self-defense capability quickly thanks to the presence of spare magazines.
Easily increases the quantity of ammo being carried.
A fantastic counter-balance device when shooting suppressed offhand or using shooting sticks.
When used as a chassis, the device provides a solid stabilizing 3rd point of contact.
Easy to stow when not in use.
Cost-effective, easy-to-use system, especially when compared to complex systems on the market.
No tools needed for installation and can be attached to your gun in a matter of seconds.
If you shoot suppressed, the MXP-DW can be a great stabilizing device. (Photo credit: Max Venom)
The MXP-DW ships with the device needed to connect the extended magazines for use as a chassis, or to use a stand-alone magazine holster. It does not ship with any magazines or tools, since the latter isn’t needed and the former is something the user needs to acquire separately. When buying this product, take your state’s potential magazine capacity restrictions into consideration.
As if Umarex didn’t have a full line of airguns guns to choose from, it has the Legends M3 Grease Gun in Full-auto joining the group. The Legends M3 is a fully automatic CO2-powered BB SMG, right in time for Christmas.
Umarex M3 Grease Gun Specifications:
Based on the M3A1 variant
Shoots .177 Caliber Steel BBs
Semi or Fully Automatic Operation
60 Round Drop Free Magazine
(2) 12 Gram CO2 Power Source
Three-Position Manual Safety
Collapsible Wire Stock
Peep Style Iron Sights
Rate of Fire 1,050 BBs Per Minute
460 FPS
The Umarex M3 Grease Gun is based on the M3A1 that first came out in 1944, but this CO2 version has all the features that users of the Umarex Legends line-up have come to expect. The M3 joins two other World War II-era submachine gun BB guns in the Legends Series, the MP and M1A1. Additionally, the Legends line has other options as well, like the Walther PPK/S, Cowboy Lever Action Rifle, and an M712 Broom Handle.
Umarex updated its Legends line of airguns to include the full-auto M3 Grease Gun. The airgun replica can be shot in single or full-auto mode and has many of the same features as the original M3A1 Grease Gun. [Photo credit: Umarex USA]
The airgun can be fired single shot or in full-auto at a rate of 1,050 BBs per minute, which is crazy fast. The magazine drops-free of the rifle and can hold 60 BBs and two 12-gram CO2 cartridges. The end-user can also purchase additional magazines to keep the fun going.
“We are excited about the expansion of the Legends Series,” Richard Turner, President, and CEO of Umarex USA said. “The Legends are fantastic historical replicas but, more importantly, they are lots of fun to shoot. The M3 Grease Gun fits both of those criteria.”
It also has a collapsible wire stock and fixed peep sights, like the original Grease Gun. Additionally, it has a bolt and cut-away thumb charging slot under the dust cover. Just like the M3 it is based on, the firing action from the M3 Grease airgun opens the bolt. The company stated that the end user can expect 120 BBs fired for each full CO2 charge.
The Umarex M3 Grease Gun full-auto replica airgun has an MSRP of $249.99 and is available now.
Stern Defense has given AR users another option for buttstock usage on their rifles. The Rapid Attach Buttstock Adapter, or RAB-AD, is a device that is installed on the buffer tube and lower receiver that allows the user to attach or detach the buttstock quickly.
According to Stern Defense, the Rapid Attach Buttstock Adapter allows the user to greatly reduce the overall length of the rifle for easy and compact storage or transportation. It all happens within a few seconds, making it a breeze. The RAB-AD is designed, machined, and assembled in the U.S.
Stern Defense has another option for AR users with the RAB-AD, or Rapid Attach Buttstock Adapter, for quick and easy detachment of the buttstock from the buffer and lower receiver. The RAB-AD adds only 3.5 ounces and 1.25″ overall to the host rifle. (Photo credit: Stern Defense)
The RAB-AD has a hard-coated anodized 7075 aluminum body for maximum wear protection. The internals is constructed from steel for additional strength while keeping the overall weight to a minimum. The overall weight of the Rapid Attach Buttstock Adapter is 3.5 ounces and adds 1.25” to the length of pull of the host rifle.
The RAB-AD detaches with a push of a button and a quick counter-clockwise turn. When the buttstock is detached, the adapter has a buffer retainer to keep the buffer weight and spring in the tube securely. To attach the buttstock, line it up and rotate it clockwise. The adapter features a steel locking mechanism that secures it automatically.
RAB-AD Features:
Designed, machined, and assembled in the U.S.A.
7075 aluminum body and steel internals for lightweight strength.
Hard coat anodized for maximum wear protection.
Buffer retainer to keep the buffer weight in the tube while disassembled.
Buffer spacer compatible with all standard-length AR-15 bolts.
RAB-AD weighs 3.5 ounces.
Adds 1.25 inches to the length of pull on the rifle.
The Stern Defense Rapid Attach Buttstock Adapter does not require any modifications to the host rifle, and the adapter comes with the required Armorers tool for installation. It is compatible with AR firearms with direct impingement, direct blowback, radial delayed blowback, and gas piston systems. Word of note from Stern Defense that the RAB-AD is compatible with the JP silent capture spring but not with BCGs that have a flared boss at the tail of the carrier. They state that the BCG (bolt carrier group) tail must be .950” or smaller.
The Rapid Attach Buttstock Adapter from Stern Defense comes with an MSRP of $139.95.
Many folks who keep firearms for home defense strive to balance readiness with safe storage. After all, it’s not always possible to quickly access a gun in your safe, but, unless you live alone, having firearms lying around isn’t practical. Quick-access handgun safes can help strike that balance, but what about long guns? Historically, there haven’t been many options and the days of the loaded rifle over the mantlepiece are mostly gone. But the Hornady RAPiD Shotgun Wall Safe partially addresses that problem.
The Hornady RAPiD Safe provides versatile security. (Author’s Photo)
The Hornady RAPiD Safe provides a secure storage option coupled with fast, reliable access. Let’s look at those two aspects individually.
RAPiD Security
The safe is small and can be used as a standalone device, but for maximum security, you’ll have to mount it to the wall. This is not hard to do. Mounting hardware and instructions are included. All you have to do is find the studs in your wall. The mounting bolt heads are inside the safe, securing them from tampering by a potential thief or curious adolescent. You can mount the safe horizontally or vertically, depending on your needs.
The safe’s housing is constructed from 14-gauge steel and features 2 internal hardened steel locking lugs. The safe exceeds ATSM International safety standards regarding lock strength; drop, pick, and saw tests; hinge attack resistance, and child and pry resistance.
The safe is rugged and includes a separately mounted muzzle loop to support longer-barreled guns. (Author’s Photo)
Your shotgun is held in place by a steel lug that fits in the open ejection port. The gun cannot be pulled through either end. The mounting lug blocks the action so you can store the gun with ammo in the tube. There is also a separately mounted muzzle loop to support longer-barreled guns.
RAPiD Access
The safe offers several access methods, including keys, a coded keypad, and RFID technology. The redundancy here is a strength. The safe includes 2 circular barrel keys for manual access. Make sure you don’t lose them because Hornady does not offer replacements, due to security concerns. If you do lose them, you’ll have to rely on the electronic options or call a locksmith.
The safe’s lid features a keypad, into which you can program a 4-to-6-digit access code. Punch in your code and the safe pops open. I was pleased by the door’s positivity when it opened. The keypad is large and easily visible. The keys are also easy to navigate by touch in the dark and light up when you hit the 1st key. That’s a real positive. The code is also easy to input and change if necessary.
The keypad is large, and it lights up when the first key is punched. (Author’s Photo)
The final access option uses RFID technology. This, in my tests, was the weak spot. The safe comes with an RFID wristband, key fob, and 2 adhesive decals for your phone or whatever. The safe can accept up to 5 separate RFID input devices.
The programming is simple and only takes a few minutes, but I found the RFID reliability to be less than ideal. All the devices worked, but it often took several seconds of moving them around over the sensor trying to find the right spot. I did eventually figure out where that spot was, so I got better at it, but in a stressful situation, maybe in the dark, I wouldn’t want to rely on it.
Plus, I don’t see myself wearing the wristband, attaching the key fob to my keys, or applying the decal to my phone, especially since the instructions say the metal in a phone may interfere with the signal. Still, I kept the RFID inputs as a backup in case I misplace the keys. I just keep all the RFID devices locked in my main gun safe. The keys and the keypad are the simplest and, to my mind, most reliable access methods.
The safe comes with an AC power attachment, mounting hardware, an RFID key fob and decals, and an RFID wristband. (Author’s Photo)
Finally, the electronics “beep” when you use them, providing audible confirmation that you’re doing what you think you’re doing. But you can turn that off if you want. I can see not wanting to tip off an intruder that you’re breaking out the artillery.
Power Supply
The safe’s electronics are powered by an included AC power cord and/or 4 AA batteries that are not included. If you plan to use the electronic access options, I recommend installing the batteries. I found that the AC connection inside the safe can occasionally work its way free if you open and close the safe a lot. Maybe that’s just my example, but it happened a couple of times. That’s where the keys come in, but that could be a problem if it’s the middle of the night and you can’t see the keyhole in the dark.
The internal AC power attachment and RFID programming instructions. Note the steel lug (upper right) on which the gun mounts via the ejection port. (Author’s Photo)
Relying on the safe’s electronics also limits your placement options somewhat, but I doubt that’s a major issue for most people. If you don’t have an available outlet, use the keys.
Not for All Shotguns
The Hornady RAPiD Wall Safe is made for most standard pump and semi-automatic shotguns, including 12-gauge, 20-gauge, and .410s. It will not, however, fit certain magazine-fed guns. I had originally hoped it would house my Rock Island VRPA40, but the mag well is too big. But no real worries since my Mossberg 590 Shockwave does just fine. I cannot speak to all magazine-fed guns but be aware that not all guns will fit.
The safe won’t fit all shotguns, but this Mossberg 590 Shockwave does just fine. (Author’s Photo)
The Verdict
Overall, I like the Hornady RAPiD Safe. It’s solidly built, compact, and versatile. You can mount it pretty much wherever you want, or not. The mounting holes would even allow you to attach it inside your vehicle with a cable if you wanted to try that.
The locking mechanism is positive and, aside from the finicky RFID tech, was 100% reliable in my tests over the last 6 weeks or so. I mounted it over my bed and quickly got to where I could access it smoothly. I will say that you should have a hand on the pistol grip while opening the safe. The gun can slide off the mounting lug. I had to take some of the photos with the inner foam removed because it was a little shaky otherwise.
I was very pleased with the safe’s robust construction. Its weight surprised me at first. It’s not heavy, but it’s obviously solid. There’s no rattling and I have no concerns about anyone getting to my gun if I don’t want them to.
I’m glad I got this safe. It gives me flexibility in my home defense scheme while not compromising safety. I wouldn’t mount it in my living room, but I certainly could, if I chose. To me, it’s a good bedroom, home office, or even garage setup. But that’s me. Versatility is one of this safe’s strengths. If this sounds good to you, you’re in luck. GunMag Warehouse has them in stock right now. Check it out.
