The High Speed Gear pouch lineup has gotten yet another revamp, and this time it’s the Pistol TACO’s turn. The pistol TACO pouches group to include a Double Extended Pistol TACO and the Duty Double Extended Pistol TACO.
The Double Extended Pistol TACO is a versatile pouch that can securely hold almost any high-capacity pistol magazine but can also hold large flashlights, collapsible batons, and other survival gear. The design of the pouch, like the Single Extended Pistol TACO, allows for quick and quiet deployment of the magazine in the pouch. It is also similar to the HSG Duty version of the pouch in its function but has the shock-cord woven on the outside of the pouch.
High Speed Gear has revamped its Pistol TACO pouch. Now there is a double pouch option in the regular TACO and the Duty TACO pouch. (Photo credit: High Speed Gear)
The Duty Double Extended Pistol TACO secures items in the pouch with a sleek, professional look with the internal shock-cord. The Duty version of the Extended Pistol TACO was designed with law enforcement professionals in mind. It is constructed from a proprietary heavy-duty nylon laminate and polymer brackets for versatility in size and restraint.
“We’ve continued to successfully grow the High Speed Gear brand and product selection by making the time to listen to our customers’ wants and needs,” said Bill Babboni, Chief Operating Officer of High Speed Gear. “These two products will benefit military service members, law enforcement officers, and civilians alike.”
According to High Speed Gear, both products are permanently secured to a laser-cut laminate base. That means easy and stable mounting on any MOLLE or PALS platform, such as vests, plate carriers, or duty belts. Either pouch would be a great addition to any shooter’s gear lineup. Both pouches have HSG’s Lifetime Warranty and are made in the USA.
If you think choosing ammunition is as easy as grabbing a random box off the gun store shelf, think again. All ammunition is not created equally. When it comes to selecting defensive ammunition, the differences become extremely important. It takes research and hands-on time to figure out which loads perform well for self-defense loads, and that can be expensive and time-consuming. That’s where Mike Jones of “Garand Thumb” [YouTube channel] comes in. In a recent video, he tests some popular 9mm defensive ammo and shares his results.
Choosing the right defensive ammunition takes time and research. (Photo credit: Garand Thumb)
What is Defensive Ammunition?
There are a few categories of ammunition you should be familiar with including target, hunting, and defensive loads. As you might expect, target rounds are made for plinking and target practice. These are rounds like FMJ (Full Metal Jacket), and they are made to impact a target without expansion. Because of this, they are prone to significant over-penetration. Hunting rounds are made to perform their greatest on game animals (often specific animals) for a one-shot, ethical kill. Finally, defensive ammunition is made to perform according to long-standing FBI standards for penetration, expansion, and weight retention.
Defensive ammunition is designed to stop a threat as quickly as possible and with the smallest possible risk of over-penetration since through-and-throughs created by target rounds put innocent people at risk of injury.
Mike tries out various 9mm defensive ammo loads on a ballistic gel torso. (Photo credit: Garand Thumb)
Which defensive loads are tested?
Hornady Critical Defense
Speer Gold Dot
Federal HST
Norma MHP (Monolithic Hollow Point)
Check out the video to find out how the above 9mm defensive ammo rounds performed on a ballistic gel torso.
From the Comments
Viewers made some interesting comments on this particular Garand Thumb video. In particular, viewers who work in medical fields have real-life experiences that influence their choice of defensive ammunition.
BunkerMonkey777 wrote, “I work in emergency medicine and I’ve seen a fair amount of gun shot wounds. Most of them are fmj from small calibers (25 acp, 22lr, 380). Those patients tend to live unless it’s to the heart, a major blood vessel, or brain stem. The patients I’ve seen with 9mm hollow points don’t live if the patient is shot in the trunk (chest or stomach). Most of the time (if not all of the time) quality hollow points pass all the way through. I personally carry Hornady critical duty because I’ve seen what it does.”
NOLA_RN explained, “As a nurse in New Orleans, one of the largest centers of gun violence in the world, you would be amazed at what the human body can survive. What ya’ll perceive as more powerful, a through and through, usually does less damage. The hollow points that splinter apart generally knick multiple organ systems making them more fatal.”
suzettespencer replied, “I personally operated on several people shot with both FMJ and HP. Other than making slightly bigger holes, there is no significant difference. When a solid organ is shot like the liver, the petals will cause more bleeding in the HP. FMJ do penetrate more, especially when it hits bone.”
Do you have any experience with defensive ammunition in ballistic gel, while hunting, or otherwise? Tell us in the comments below.
Adding a red dot sight to your setup is an excellent way to improve aim and rapid target acquisition. Of course, many red dots on the market utilize hard-to-find batteries, which can be frustrating. Sig Sauer understands the need for an effective product with a simple power source, and the Romeo 4XT Pro delivers. This red dot is powered by a AAA battery and performs exactly as needed for a variety of applications.
The Sig Sauer ROMEO 4XT Pro is powered by a single AAA battery. (Photo credit: Sig Sauer)
According to Sig Sauer, the ROMEO 4XT-PRO offers many of the same reliable features as the popular ROMEO 4T, such as high-end optical performance, quad-reticle, and impressive durability. However, it boasts additional features the company says have been specifically requested by professionals. Those additions include the illumination control being moved to the top of the sight, to provide easy access with either hand, which also reduces the risk of getting hung up on chest rigs and plate carriers when the rifle is slung.
The red dot sight ships with everything you need to mount it to your gun and zero it. (Photo credit: SIG Sauer)
The ROMEO 4XT PRO also has a dedicated night vision override switch, making it easy to switch settings in low-lighting conditions. This system combines Motion Activated Illumination (MOTAC) with an easy-to-find AAA battery and has a manufacturer rating for 50,000 hours of runtime. That’s undeniably impressive, and an important feature for serious users. In addition, the ROMEO 4XT-PRO is IPX8-rated waterproof, fog proof, and is tested to MIL-STD-810 for reliability.
This sight is available with a black or flat dark earth housing. (Photo credit: SIG Sauer)
Features of the ROMEO 4XT PRO include:
Top-mounted button activation for ambidextrous use with no need to lower the rifle from the shoulder.
Night vision override simplifies the changing of settings in low or no-light scenarios.
Protected adjustments to maintain zero during use.
Powered by a commonly found AAA battery for simplicity.
MOTAC, which is activated through motion sensing technology to turn on illumination when it senses motion and automatically powers down after an extended period of inactivity.
Quad reticle, so the user can choose from 4 different reticles. The Ballistic Circle Dot reticle is used, which lets users pick from a 2 MOA dot, a 2 MOA dot with ballistic holds, a 2 MOA/65 MOA Circle Dot, or a 2 MOA/65 MOA Circle Dot with ballistic holds. Holdover points are designed for 5.56 NATO and 7.62x51mm NATO.
Total elevation travel is listed as 100 MOA
Dot color is red.
D.A.R.C., which is the company’s Dark Adaptive Reticles & Coatings Specialized lens coatings and reticle brightness settings for optimal use with GEN 3+ night vision.
The sight is designed for superior performance in tactical situations. (Photo credit: Sig Sauer)
Dimensions of the ROMEO 4XT PRO are 64mm in height, 58mm overall width, and 86mm overall length. The sight weighs 7.0 ounces, meaning it won’t add unnecessary bulk to the user’s gun. This sight has 1x magnification and a 20mm objective lens diameter. It has a Half Inch Hex Mount for adding it to the rifle’s Picatinny rail.
Making firearms more portable is frequently the goal of gun owners, and there are a lot of aftermarket accessories available to do just that. If you have a Zastava Arms ZPAP or similar AK rifle, you can make your AK easier to transport by adding their ZPAP AK Underfolding Stock Kit. It’s designed to make it easier to transport and store while offering practical-use features, too.
The Zastava Underfolding Stock Kit is designed for the company’s ZPAP rifle. (Photo credit: Zastava Arms)
According to the manufacturer, the Zastava Arms USA Folding Stock Kit is the best way to upgrade a fixed stock ZPAP, among other models. It’s also the only way to change it to an underfolder-style stock without a gunsmith. The adaptor for the system is made from billet 6061 aluminum for durability and the stock itself is made from steel. It’s an efficient and straightforward way to convert a fixed stock to an underfolder style without the need for extensive work or the use of a lot of tools.
The stock is streamlined and ruggedly built to handle serious use. (Photo credit: Zastava Arms)
This system allows the folding mechanism of the stock to fold even with a 30-round magazine in place, which is a fantastic feature. QD mounts are carefully placed to be quickly accessed to allow users to attach their sling to the stock, no muss, no fuss. The kit comes with all the hardware needed to mount it directly to the existing fixed stock rear trunnion of a ZPAP. Zastava states this system fits the Serbian/Yugo pattern, ZPAPM70, PAP M90 PS, and O PAP (rifles with 1.5mm receivers and the same rivet pattern as ZPAPM70s). Take note that it will not fit the N-PAP model.
The stock is designed to attach to the existing rear trunnion. (Photo credit: Zastava Arms)
If your goal is to convert your rifle to an underfolding stock without breaking the bank, the ZPAP AK Underfolding Kit is worth a closer look. It can be installed in a matter of minutes. And because it uses the rear trunnion currently in place to support your fixed stock, the underfolder can be swapped out with a fixed stock as wanted. You can even swap them back if need be.
Zastava reports the kit has been put through numerous function and stress tests to confirm it can withstand strenuous use.
The system can be installed quickly and easily with no need for a gunsmith. (Photo credit: Zastava Arms)
Features of the ZPAP AK Underfolding Stock Kit include QD attachment points for slings, 6061 Billet Aluminum and steel construction, and the ability to underfold beneath a 30-round magazine. This system requires a 3/16 Allen key for installation. It’s made for simplicity yet is an effective way to improve the portability of your rifle.
What do you think? Will the underfolding stock be the next addition to your AK? Tell us what you think in the comments section.
MSRP for the Zastava Arms ZPAP AK Underfolding Stock Kit is set at $199.99.
Who doesn’t love a good heist movie? The good ones have us rooting for the supposed bad guys, who are usually portrayed as enriching themselves by sticking it to “the Man.” “The Man” can be the government, a faceless corporation, a hoity toity bank, or just some rich snot who totally deserves it. One of my favorite heist films (Kelly’s Heroes) is also a good war movie. The best heist movies also carry a revenge factor, like The Italian Job. 1967’s The War Wagon is one of those.
(movieposters.wonderhowto.com)
The Duke as Borderline Bad Guy
I’m a sucker for a good John Wayne Western, and The War Wagon is no exception. The Duke plays Taw Jackson, a rancher wrongly imprisoned for an unspecified crime. Turns out he was framed by mining magnate Frank Pierce (Bruce Cabot), who wanted the gold recently found on Jackson’s ranch. How Pierce gained control of the ranch is unclear, but it doesn’t affect the story. It’s enough to know Pierce is a greedy snake with no morals.
Frank Pierce (Bruce Cabot) is the lowdown skunk who stole the Duke’s ranch. He has to pay. (imfdb.org)
The War Wagon was the first movie in which Wayne was a bad guy, even if it was forced on him by Pierce. The revenge-driven Duke, out on parole, is convincing as he plans to steal back his gold and kill Pierce in the process.
War Wagon Plot
The War Wagon is 55 years old, so spoilers aren’t really a thing, but I won’t ruin it for you either way. Pierce periodically transports gold dust from his New Mexico mine to El Paso in an armored stagecoach he calls his “War Wagon.” A safe inside the coach holds the gold and Pierce rides inside with several rifle-armed guards. Fourteen more mounted riflemen ride ahead of the War Wagon with fourteen more behind. Early in the movie, Jackson says the guards are all armed with Henry rifles, but they actually carry Winchester Model 1892 carbines. Of course, your average Western fan won’t know the difference.
The armored stagecoach gives the movie its name. (thegreatwesternmovies.com)
Jackson plans to ambush the War Wagon and take an upcoming shipment worth half a million dollars. If he can kill Pierce too, well, so much the better. His intelligence comes from Wes Fletcher, a wagon driver working for Pierce. Fletcher is played by Keenan Wynn, who also plays Colonel Bat Guano in one of my favorite films, Dr. Strangelove. Fletcher is a crusty old coot and proves himself to be not exactly trustworthy, but Jackson needs him for the heist.
The story is supposedly based on a real armored wagon called the Monitor that ran gold out of Deadwood South Dakota. At least one outlaw tried to rob it. It ended badly for him.
Pierce’s guards carried Winchester Model 1892 carbines, despite Jackson saying they were Henrys. (imfdb.org)
The Duke’s Gang
Jackson recruits three other men for his crew, each with a very particular skill set. This was before Liam Neeson’s time, so he ain’t one of them.
The second recruit is the gunslinger/safecracker Lomax (Kirk Douglas). Lomax is second place only to Jackson as the film’s main character. Jackson and Lomax have a complicated relationship, considering the latter shot the former as part of Pierce’s earlier shenanigans. We never hear the particulars, but it’s not necessary to the story.
Lomax (Kirk Douglas) and Taw Jackson (John Wayne). (thegreatwesternmovies.com)
Neither man trusts the other, but Jackson needs a shooter and a safecracker and Lomax wants the equal share of gold Jackson promises him. Pierce complicates things by offering Lomax 12 grand to kill Jackson. Seems having the man whose ranch and gold he stole hanging around makes him nervous. Lomax accepts the offer and keeps it hanging over Jackson’s head to make sure he gets his share.
The next gang member is Levi Walking Bear (Howard Keel), a Kiowa who is instrumental in gaining his tribe’s aid in Jackson’s scheme. Seems they don’t like Pierce either.
The gang’s final member is teenaged alcoholic and explosives expert Billy Hyatt (Robert Walker, Jr.). We’re never told why an 1870s teenager knows so much about explosives. Suffice it to say that he is competent with dynamite and nitroglycerin, which helps when you’re trying to spring gold from an armored stagecoach.
Taw Jackson and Levi Walking Bear (Howard Keel) look nervously at Billy Hyatt’s (Robert Walker, Jr.) bottle of nitroglycerin. (moviesalamark.com)
I won’t spoil the plan and execution because it’s well-presented and fun to watch.
Guns of The War Wagon
Robbing the War Wagon obviously won’t be easy, and you know guns will be involved. But the menu is concise and there are only three firearms with prominent roles.
Colt 1873 Single Action Army Revolver
The ubiquitous Peacemaker is the iconic Western firearm. It’s what all the fashionable outlaws and lawmen carried, at least as far as Hollywood is concerned. Jackson and Lomax put them to good use early and often, and Frank Pierce carries one as well.
John Wayne with his 1873 Colt Single Action Army Revolver. (imfdb.org) Frank Pierce firing his Colt during the heist. (imfdb.org)
Here are the 1873 SAA Revolver’s deets, if you don’t already know them:
Single action only
Non- swing out cylinder. Rounds loaded one at a time via a frame-mounted loading gate.
Barrel Length: 4.75 inches; 5.5 inches; or 7.5 inches
Fixed blade front sight
Cylinder capacity: 6 rounds
Caliber: Multiple. The original caliber was .45 Colt.
Winchester Model 1892 Lever Action Carbine
Despite Jackson’s assertion that all Pierce’s men carry Henry rifles, they’re really, as noted, Winchester 1892 carbines. Like the Colt SAA Revolver, the Model 1892 was a Hollywood favorite. The Duke used them in lots of his movies. The 1892’s use is also anachronistic since the movie is set in the 1870s, more than a decade before John Browning designed the Model 1892. But, you know, Hollywood.
Pierce’s guards fire their Winchester 1892s at the ambushers. (imfdb.org)
The 1892 also featured prominently in the popular 1950s and 60s TV Western The Rifleman. Great program. Right up there with Gunsmoke in my book. Interestingly, it was John Wayne and Chuck Connors, as the Rifleman, who popularized the 1892’s large loop lever. It never existed before then. The large loop made easier handling for the Duke’s big mitts and for Connors’ slick cocking spin.
Chuck Connors was all kinds of cool as Lucas McCain in The Rifleman.
Winchester, Henry, Rossi, and Chiappa now have available large loop levers.
Thanks to John Wayne and Chuck Connors, several companies offer large loop rifles, like this modern Winchester Model 1892 Large Loop Carbine. (winchesterguns.com)
Winchester Model 1892 Carbine Specifications:
Lever action
Designed by John Browning to succeed the Model 1873
Originally manufactured 1892 through 1941. Several modern 1892s currently offered by Winchester.
Original Calibers: .25 Winchester Center Fire (WCF); .32 WCF; .38 WCF; and .44 WCF
Tube magazine fed with side loading gate and top ejection port.
John Wayne’s large loop Winchester Model 1892 Saddle Ring Carbine. (imfdb.org)
1865 Colt Gatling Gun
Fletcher gives Jackson a nasty surprise with news that he recently delivered 10,000 rounds of ammo to Pierce’s ranch. Jackson correctly deduces that Pierce is installing a Gatling Gun for the War Wagon’s big half-million dollar run.
He isn’t wrong and the armored behemoth rolls out on the big day sporting a new 360-degree turret, complete with the big gun. On a side note, the turret doesn’t appear tall enough to accommodate the Gatling Gun’s top-mounted gravity-powered feeding device. Ah well. The story works either way and makes the ambush more daring.
The War Wagon’s turret-mounted Gatling Gun makes it a tougher nut to crack. (imfdb.org)
1865 Colt Gatling Gun Specifications
Type: Manually operated rapid-fire gun
Caliber: Multiple including .30.03, .30.06, .30-.40, .45-70 Gov’t, .50-70, .58 Rimfire, and a 1-inch naval version. The Internet Movie Firearms Database says the War Wagon’s Gatling was chambered in .44 Rimfire. I have been unable to confirm this one way or the other.
Capacity: Various, depending on the feeding device.
Rate of Fire: The Gatling Gun is crank operated, so the fire rate depends on the operator. Normal fire rate was 200 to 400 rounds per minute. The electrically driven 1893 model tested at 1,500 rounds per minute.
Frank Pierce cranking the Gatling Gun. (imfdb.org)
The War Wagon: A Fun Movie
The War Wagon is among my favorite John Wayne films. The plot is good, being based on Clair Huffaker’s 1957 novel Badman. Huffaker himself wrote the movie’s screenplay. I expect the book provides more background on Taw Jackson and the other characters, but that’s the usual with movies and books.
The movie was filmed in Durango, Mexico and at Churubusco Studios in Mexico City, giving the landscape an authentic Southwest feel. Studio back lots are fine for some movies, but The War Wagon’s outdoor plot is much better served by filming on location.
Kirk Douglas is another bright spot. Seeing him and John Wayne together is a real treat. He has some great lines, and his stunt double is very creative when mounting a horse. Even though Douglas was in his 50s at the time, he pulls off the gunslinger role quite well.
Seeing Kirk Douglas and John Wayne together is a real treat. (imfdb.org)
The several fistfight scenes are corny by today’s standards, but hey, it was 1967. That’s how they did things. All in all, it’s a fun movie with plenty of action and a neat twist at the end. If you like Westerns, heist films, or both, check out The War Wagon. Bet you’ll like it.
Shooters have a myriad of laws to adhere to, and for some, the restriction on magazine capacity is nothing new. XTech Tactical has updated its MAG47 line of magazines to include options for 10-round limiters, which is a great option for those folks that live or travel in states with heavier magazine restriction laws.
XTech Tactical has updated its line of MAG47 magazines to include 10-round variants. These 10-round magazines are compliant in locations where magazine capacity is restricted to 10-rounds but can be modified to full capacity where legal.
Features of the MAG47 magazines include:
Stainless Steel reinforced feed lips and locking lugs for smoother ammo feeding.
Solid steel machined rear lug.
Marked as 10rd Magazine for easy identification.
Reduced Spring to keep magazine inside capacity / Will not function with blocker removed.
Super tough composite construction.
Fits most AK47 rifles.
Spring anti-bind mechanism for the proper function of the magazine.
Stainless steel spring.
Quick-release base plate for easy cleaning.
10-round capacity.
The XTech 10-round magazines are available in the MAG47, MAG47mil, and MAG47 Elite versions, with the MAG47 Elite being the 10-round variant of its popular MAG47 30-round magazine. The 10/30 magazines are US-made slab-side rifle magazines that have stainless steel reinforced feed lips and locking lugs.
According to the company, the same material used in the magazine construction is the same high-performance material as the MIL which is the strongest US-made AK magazine on the market. Additionally, with the feed lips, the magazine is said to feed the 7.62×39 ammunition flawlessly.
The 10/30 magazines allow the user to convert the magazine to full capacity where the local laws would allow. A Free State Adapter would need to be purchased by the end user to convert the magazine to full capacity. Just removing the block inside the magazine would not work, as the spring is not the correct one for full capacity. The company maintains that all end users need to know all local and state laws to ensure their own compliance.
The XTech MAG47 magazines follow in line with the company’s desire to be the leading innovator in the market and pledges to continue to bring innovative products to its customers. Additionally, to continue to support the fight to maintain, or enhance, firearm ownership rights, the company is donating $2 for every 10/30 magazine sold from their site through the end of 2022 to Gun Owners of America.
The XTech MAG47 10/30 magazine retails for $32.95, with specialty colors available between $57.95 and $62.95.
Safariland has upped its offerings after listening to its customers with limited edition Tiger Stripe Cordura camo wrapped holsters, specifically the 6345RDS and the 6304RDS holsters.
“We’re going old-school by bringing Safariland fans holsters specifically in Tiger Stripe camo,” said Safariland VP of Marketing & Commercial Sales Tim Drnec. “As the demand for these holsters continues to grow, we’re excited to bring these limited-edition products to market and give our customers what they’re asking for.”
As one of the leaders in tactical and everyday carry options, Safariland is no stranger to the needs of its customer base. The Tiger Striped camo holsters are versatile in fit, and function and are compatible with the popular handguns on the market.
Safariland has two limited edition Tiger Stripe Cordura camo holsters, the 6304RDS (pictured above) and the 6354RDS. Both holsters are specifically designed for handguns with red dot optics and features SafariLaminate to protect the handgun and the optic. [Photo credit: Safariland]
6354RDS Holster features include:
ALS (Automatic Locking Systems) secures the weapon once holstered; a simple straight-up draw once the release is deactivated.
Open-top design without SLS for quick retrieval of weapon
Includes QLS 19 Locking Fork ONLY.
For use with red dot optic-equipped weapons.
SafariLaminate thermal-molded construction protects handguns and sights.
Suede lined to protect the handgun’s finish.
Optic Hood Cover (optional).
The Tiger Stripe camo 6354RDS holster comes with the QLS 19 Locking Fork and is specifically designed to fit firearms with red dot sights. The holster also features the ALS, or Automatic Locking System, that secures the weapon when it has been holster and keeps it secure no matter the movement on the holster and can be disengaged with the thumb. The 6354RDS holster boasts Safariland’s SafariLaminate, the thermal-molded construction that protects the handgun, and the sights with a suede lining to protect the gun’s finish.
6304RDS Holster features include:
ALS (Automatic Locking Systems) secures the weapon once holstered; a simple straight-up draw once the release is deactivated
SLS (Self Locking System) Rotating Hood
For use with red dot optic-equipped weapons
SafariLaminate thermoformed construction protects handguns and sights
The 6304RDS holster, also available in the Tiger Stripe Cordura camo, is said to reduce the infrared (IR) signature of the holster and has both the ALS and SLS (Self-Locking System) for firearm security. When the ALS is disengaged with the thumb, the handgun can be drawn straight up, while the SLS has a rotating hood to secure the firearm in the holster. The 6304RDS holster, too, is designed to be used with handguns with red dot optics and has the thermoformed SafariLaminate construction. Inside the holster is a suede lining to protect the handgun’s finish from rub.
The 6354RDS and the 6304RDS Tiger Stripe Cordura camo holsters are limited edition and come with the price tag of $226.75 and $250.75 respectively.
The stock you choose to use on your AR-platform gun can make all the difference in comfort and accuracy. And if you’re interested in branching out beyond the old standard stocks, there’s a whole wide world of unique designs. Reptilia’s RECC-E Carbine Stock is a great example of what innovation and knowledge of the platform can do for gun owners. The stock has a well-thought-out ergonomic shape and functional design, plus it looks cool.
Reptilia’s RECC-E Carbine Stock is designed with a unique ergonomic shape for fantastic overall performance. (Photo credit: Reptilia)
According to the manufacturer, more than two years of development and testing went into the creation of the RECCE-E Stock. It’s made for AR-15 and AR-10 platform rifles and designed for superior performance whichever platform you mount it on. Reptilia states this stock was designed at the request of a military end user, meaning it’s made for duty and purpose-driven. Its shape and overall design allow for a constant cheek weld and it features ambidextrous QD sling attachment points, a rubber buttpad, and a modular design that is compatible with all standard AR15 carbine buffer systems.
The stock is well-balanced and designed for duty use but it’s also fantastic for precision or hunting. (Photo credit: Reptilia)
The RECC-E Stock also works with A5/SR25 carbine buffer systems if the user replaces the receiver extension (buffer tube) and forward portion of the stock. The overall weight of the stock is 12.0 ounces, which includes the proprietary AR15-length receiver extension. This stock is an ideal lightweight solution for the entire range of AR-platform guns from compact to precision and everything in between.
The stock is ergonomically designed to offer a constant cheek weld. (Photo credit: Reptilia)
Features of the stock include:
Proprietary receiver extension made of 7075-T6 Aluminum with a Type III Milspec Anodized Finish for resistance to wear and tear.
The AR-15 platform model weighs 12 ounces and the AR-10 platform model weighs 12.7 ounces; Both versions are super lightweight and won’t add unnecessary bulk to the overall size of the gun.
The length of pull is adjustable between 10.8 inches and 14.2 inches.
Available in black or flat dark earth
Other materials used in production include Impact Modified Glass-Filled Nylon Polymer, 7075 Type III anodized aluminum, and nitrided alloy steel hardware. This stock is ruggedly built for serious use.
Ships with all necessary mounting hardware to simplify adding it to your rifle.
QD sling attachment points are located on either side of the stock, making it possible to place your sling where needed depending on whether you’re right or left-handed.
Rubber buttpad improves comfort and helps mitigate felt recoil.
Your choice of stock matters and the awesome thing about that is you can change it. You aren’t stuck with the factory stock, and if you’re a builder, you have a vast array of options to choose from. Check out the Reptilia RECC-E Carbine Stock for your AR. It’s a good way to balance your rifle and create a more portable platform.
What do you prefer, the black or the flat dark earth stock? Tell us what you think in the comments section.
MSRP for the Reptilia RECC-E Carbine Stock is set at $159.95.
The right chassis on your rifle can make the difference between superior precision and less-than-stellar results. After all, a well-made chassis provides comfort, a user-friendly platform, and stability. MDT understands the importance of your rifle’s chassis, and that’s why they offer their XRS Chassis for the CZ 455. The chassis gives CZ rimfire shooters a solid, high-quality foundation designed to improve results while delivering an ergonomically correct, comfortable system.
The MDT XRS Chassis is designed as a hybrid rifle stock and chassis system for ideal performance. (Photo credit: MDT)
According to the manufacturer, the XRS Chassis is meant for serious shooters looking for the fit and feel of a traditional rifle stock, only with the benefits of a modern precision rifle chassis system. As a hybrid system, the XRS gives them that. This system is constructed from a full-length CNC machined core of 6061 aircraft-grade aluminum for fantastic durability and resistance to wear.
In addition, the chassis has high-strength textured polymer panels that offer additional protection from the elements. The V-block bedding system is made from aluminum and created to ensure excellent fit and function in a way that maximizes the accuracy of the rifle’s action. The XRS also features a replaceable over-molded and textured grip system, for comfort and performance purposes. Both an angled grip and a vertical grip are included in the box so the shooter can choose what they prefer.
The MDT XRS Chassis is available in black. (Photo credit: MDT)
Features of the chassis system include:
M-LOK compatible forend, which makes mounting aftermarket accessories to the gun easier.
Height-adjustable cheek rest to customize the stock’s fit for a better cheek weld during live fire.
Interchangeable vertical and angled grip panels are included to fit the shape of the grip to the shooter’s hand.
Integrated barricade stop to create a more stable platform during precision shooting.
The buttstock and forend have sling swivel studs mounted to them, making adding a sling simple.
AICS magazine compatible
Ambidextrous magazine lever to facilitate operation with either hand.
Spacers are included to adjust the length of pull according to the shooter’s needs.
QD sling mount located on either side of the buttstock for greater sling attachment point options.
Available in either black or flat dark earth.
The chassis system comes with two grip inserts to adjust the angle of the grip to the shooter’s needs. (Photo credit: MDT)
MDT designed this chassis system to be compatible with the CZ 455. It provides a stable, well-made foundation to improve accuracy. You bring the shooting skills, the chassis will help with the rest. The XRS itself weighs in at 3 pounds, 9 ounces, and has a length of pull between 13.25 inches and 15 inches depending on the use of spacers. With a forend length of 12 inches, that puts the overall length of the chassis between 25.25 inches and 27 inches. From its CNC machining to its V-block bedding system, this chassis is built for precision performance.
The chassis has an overall weight of 3 pounds, 9 ounces. (Photo credit: MDT)
What do you think of the XRS? Tell us your thoughts in the comments section.
MSRP for the MDT XRS Chassis System for the CZ 455 is set at $549.95.
Metal Gear Solid is such a weird combination of different awesome things: an insane story, tough guy characters, stealth, action, nukes, and tons of stereotypes mixed with heavy themes of loss, sadness, betrayal, and confusion. But there is always hope for a brighter future.
Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain is an absolute masterpiece. Konami, publisher of the video game series, did the world a disservice by effectively killing Metal Gear Solid and focusing on pachinko machines rather than good video games. Metal Gear Solid V, or MGSV, is seemingly the last Metal Gear Solid game we will get from video game designer Hideo Kojima. It’s an interesting game that is an absolute must-play.
Don’t mind the horn, it’s just a bit of shrapnel. (Konami’s Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain)
Stop here if you’ve never played it. Everything after will be spoilers. It’s a great game. The biggest flaw is the last act; It seems rushed, and the missions are repetitive. However, the game is still fantastic.
Breaking MGSV: The Phantom Pain
Admittedly to understand the story and get the full experience, you have to play both Phantom Pain and the Prologue Ground Zeroes. These days the games are often included as the Definitive Experience. However, Phantom Pain is quite short and is a true prologue to a much bigger world.
Phantom Pain takes place eight years after Ground Zeroes. You are Big Boss, aka code name Venom Snake. You wake up in a hospital, and from there, things go off the rails with psychic soldiers, men made of fire, a guy named Skullface, and then your typical soldiers and bad guys.
Metal Gear Solid has always been known for its crazy, off-the-wall storytelling. It’s a mixture of conspiracy theories about who runs the world, giant robots that shoot nukes, oh and casual supernatural events no one ever seems to notice or remark on. It’s just part of this world. The story in MGSV has Snake returning to establish a new mercenary group.
Militia Sans Frontiers was disbanded and destroyed during Ground Zeroes. Your Snake is tasked with establishing a new group from the ground up called Diamond Dogs. (Sidenote Militia Sans Frontiers is a much better name.)
Peep the tiger stripe! (Konami’s Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain)
Militia Sans Frontiers was disbanded and destroyed during Ground Zeroes. Your Snake is tasked with establishing a new group from the ground up called Diamond Dogs. (Sidenote Militia Sans Frontiers is a much better name.)
The Gameplay
You have two main maps, one in Angola and one in Afghanistan. Both regions are unturned by war. You are free to explore the maps and do missions and side ops as you see fit. The game does prioritize stealth because you will often be outnumbered and outgunned.
Going in guns blazing is an option, but you better have a plan of attack. You might quickly be overwhelmed by the enemy if you go in half-cocked. Cover is a major element, and the troops will coordinate their attacks and use the tools around them to pursue and kill you, including calling for reinforcements.
Those tools included emplaced machine guns and mortars that will absolutely chew through you. However, you can also turn the tide. The action is satisfying, the guns are punchy, and when you hit the enemy, you know. Enemies get wounded and fall behind cover. Some are down on the ground but may attack you with their handgun.
Going in sneaky is the safe play. MGSV wants to take down your enemies quietly or not at all. You can avoid combat if you choose. You can also play entirely nonlethal with tranquilizer guns and similar tools. Interrogating enemies is a big part of surviving and finding resources because they can reveal the location of resources, specialist soldiers, and the placement of their allies.
Building Diamond Dogs
The game also tasks you with recruiting new friends from your old enemies. The enemies on the battlefield can be tranquilized or stunned and then recruited to Mother Base. You want to recruit high-value soldiers, and they have various stats and skills that you might want to aim for.
Base building isn’t tedious and is more staff management than anything. Even then, the computer handles it well. There are several different specialties like R&D, Intel, and Support you can recruit soldiers to. These affect what items and weapons you can build, what support you can receive, and early warnings about the battlefield.
You use a Fulton device to kidnap the troops, as well as extract vehicles, resources, and even animals. Hunting down soldiers with the right skills and stats is part of the fun, and it’s so satisfying to snatch at A, A++, or S-tier soldiers with the skill you need to develop your next weapon or item.
The M60 clone is a great way to shake up the Russians. (Konami’s Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain)
The World of MGSV
MGSV gives you a very open and wide world to explore that feels somewhat real. There aren’t any civilians in Afghanistan or Africa for some reason, but it still feels alive. The soldiers have posts. They sleep, they talk, and BS between being killed or kidnapped by Snake.
You can intercept their comms and hear their panic as you beat them back or as they search and call for reinforcements. You can kill the guy with the radio and shut down their comms if you want to.
Aiming like this is fairly inaccurate, its only good for super-close ranges. (Konami’s Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain)
The voice acting in MGSV is fantastic. It’s very well done with a mix of real voice actors like Troy Barker and celebrities like Kiefer Sutherland. The characters are cool and interesting, from the six-gun-slinging Ocelot to Kaz, it’s all interesting. Quiet, who barely speaks, still develops as a character. However, the excuse that she breathes through her skin is a silly way to get undressed for the majority of the game.
The Guns of MGSV
Obviously, we have to talk about the guns! The game has an absolute metric ton of types and variations of the guns you already have. Sadly, they are largely fictional but also believable, if that makes sense. The AK is called the SV-76, and it’s used by the Russians and looks like an AK. There are stand-ins for the M60, the FAL, the Chiappa Rhino, the USP, and many more. They aren’t all 1-for-1 replicas, but it’s easy to see the inspiration. The guns can also be upgraded to different variations, including adding optics. I like a good red dot and magnifier, personally. If you extract the gunsmith, you can do even more customization.
This SMG def has Glock sights, right? (Konami’s Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain)
Suppressors are in the game, but they degrade quickly. Like a few bursts from an assault rifle, and they are gone. It’s not realistic, but it balances the game. You can and should use iron sights. While the game is third person, you can go to the first person to aim. If you try to shoot in the third person, you’ll miss more than you’ll hit.
It’s BatS&^%
Metal Gear Solid is crazy, with a very complicated story spanning decades of video games. If you’ve never played the MGS games, don’t fret. You’ll still figure out MGSV without issue. You can ignore the story altogether and just enjoy the gameplay. The gunplay is a lot of fun, and so are the stealth elements and the base building. Heck, I spent two hours hunting and tranquilizing sheep and donkeys and found that fun.
It’s sad that we won’t get a proper Metal Gear Solid Six.
