Galco has expanded its offerings for torso-worn hunting and outdoor holster systems to include its High Ready chest holster. This holster system has options for a multitude of handguns including the Glock 20/21 with or without red dot sights.
Galco has expanded its offerings for torso-worn outdoor holster options. The High Ready chest holster fits a myriad of larger-frame semiautomatic pistols for those in outdoor pursuits, such as hiking, fishing, or hunting.
High Ready is ideal for comfortably carrying a large-frame semiauto when hunting, fishing, camping, or hiking in bigger game habitats, like bear country. Positioning on the chest keeps the handgun clear of gear carried near the waistline or on the back and allows for rifle carry on either shoulder. It also helps keep the handgun dry if wading needs to happen, and is a great choice for riding, whether on an ATV or horseback.
Designed for Comfort
The High Ready’s outstanding comfort level comes from three major design features.
Backing Plate
The innovative backing plate is composed of a ballistic nylon front over a closed cell foam body. The back portion of the plate that rides against the wearer’s chest is lined with Galco’s Comfort Cloth, an adaptive performance mesh that provides padding and moisture wicking.
Harness Construction
The unique harness construction allows the holster to pivot at three independent attachment points, maximizing freedom of movement and minimizing restriction. Three quickly operated, highly secure metal side-release buckles attach the holster component to the harness straps at the pivot points.
Straps
The 2″ wide tubular webbing harness straps distribute the weight of a heavy handgun for maximum comfort. One strap goes over either shoulder, while the second strap wraps around the torso for highly effective weight distribution.
The 2” tubular webbing minimal design of the High Ready chest holster helps keep the weight down along with eliminating any extra bulk on the back for the wearer. This comes especially handy so the wearer can carry a rifle from either shoulder without any interference from the holster.
The rigid, open-top Kydex holster pocket offers full slide coverage, providing fast draw and easy holstering, and facilitates a full firing grip. The holster pocket can accommodate most red dot sights.
The High Ready chest holster has a rigid Kydex holster pocket that allows for fast drawing and simple reholstering in a chest-style cross draw carry option. Additionally, the hybrid Kydex/nylon construction of the set-up makes for durable wear.
The Galco High Ready chest holster system is available for a multitude of firearms made by Browning, Smith & Wesson, Glock, and Sig Sauer. The chest holster is available in black and right-hand orientation and is on the market for $169.00.
Features
Hybrid Kydex/nylon construction
Ballistic nylon front over closed cell foam
Comfort Cloth lining provides padding and moisture wicking
Rigid Kydex holster pocket for a fast draw and easy holstering
Chest-style cross draw carry
Comfortable 2″ shoulder and torso straps
Three secure metal side-release buckles
Fits chests to 54″
The construction of the High Ready chest holster is unique in that it has three individual pivot points on the system where the holster attaches. This allows for free movement and little restriction.
Innovation is always welcome in the gun world, and Weatherby’s 338 WBY RPM and left-handed Mark V are fantastic examples of dedication to excellence. The 338 WBY RPM was created based on the popular 6.5 WBY RPM for the smaller Mark V 6 lug action and the left-handed Mark V is a testament to dependable performance.
According to Weatherby, the 338 WBY RPM shoots flatter, hits harder, and is more accurate than anything on the market. (Photo credit: Weatherby)
Upon the launch of the 6.5 WBY RPM in 2019, we began to dream of what could be next in the RPM family. Having successfully launched a 5 lb rifle in a 6.5 caliber magnum cartridge, I began to imagine what it would be like if we had a big bore option that could fit in the same Weatherby Mark V 6 lug action. Field testing for the 338 WBY RPM began back in 2020 when my son was able to take the first animal with Weatherby’s 16th cartridge introduction on a spring bear hunt. That following fall, Brenda and I both shot elk and moose ranging from 90 yards out to 550 yards and the cartridge performed tremendously. I am truly honored to be able to carry on my grandfather’s legacy of cartridge development and rifle building. The pairing of this new cartridge with our latest rifles reminds me of one of his old slogans that said “Tomorrow’s Rifles Today.” I only wish he could be here to see the innovation and development that our amazing Sheridan-based team is able to accomplish.
The left-handed Weatherby Mark V is designed for durability and performance even in rugged conditions. (Photo credit: Weatherby)
According to the gun maker, the Mark V has a lot to offer:
Weatherby Mark V Backcountry Left Hand McMillan Tan Bolt Action Rifle – 257 Weatherby Magnum – 26in – This rifle provides the craftsmanship and quality expected from a Mark V rifle only surpassed by the stunning color combination and true rugged dependability that embodies its name, Backcountry. Developed in conjunction with the Backcountry Ti, this model carries many of the same innovative technologies including a carbon fiber stock, 3D HEX recoil reducer, TriggerTech Trigger, and Accubrake ST.
Check out this video on the 338 WBY RPM:
The Weatherby left-handed Mark V is offered in the following calibers:
240 WBY MAG
243 WIN
6.5 CM
6.5 WBY RPM
280 AI
30-06 SPR
308 WIN
338 WBY RPM
Features of the left-handed Weatherby Mark V include:
Guaranteed Sub-MOA Accuracy
All Mark V rifles are guaranteed to shoot a 3-shot group of .99” or less at 100 yards (SUB-MOA) from a cold barrel when used with Weatherby factory or premium ammunition within Two-Years of Verified Purchase Date to Original Purchaser.
Triggertech Trigger
TriggerTech’s trigger provides true zero-creep break, extremely short over-travel, and is externally adjustable. Precision-cut stainless steel components ensure consistent trigger pulls from shot to shot in a safe, reliable, and corrosion-resistant package.
Accubrake ST
By adding an Accubrake ST you will significantly reduce felt recoil up to 53%. Available in four different barrel diameters, with thread protector, for a perfect brake-to-barrel contour. Included with All Calibers.
54 Degree Bolt
The shortest in the industry (as compared to the typical 90 bolt throw). Allows for faster chambering on follow-up shots and greater bolt-to-scope clearance.
Cerakote
Cerakote is the industry-leading thin-film ceramic coating. The Cerakote unique formula enhances physical properties including wear, corrosion, and chemical resistance while improving impact strengths, and hardness.
A closer look at the bolt handle on the Weatherby Mark V. (Photo credit: Weatherby)
Specifications for the left-handed Mark V in 257:
Caliber
257 Weatherby Magnum
Capacity
3+1
Barrel Length
26in
LOP
13.5in
Finish
McMillan Tan Cerakote
Stock
Carbon Fiber With Green & Tan Sponge Patterns
Sights
None, Drilled & Tapped
Weight
6.3lbs
Action
Bolt Action
Cartridge
257 Weatherby Magnum
Color
Carbon Fiber With Green & Tan Sponge Patterns
Hand
Left
Overall Length
48.13in
Stock Material
Carbon Fiber
Twist
1:10in
Type
Centerfire
MSRP for the left-handed Weatherby Mark V varies by custom design.
Duck season is fast approaching, and that means it’s time to get your gear together. If you haven’t decided what duck hunting ammo to use in your favorite shotgun this year, or even if you have, take a look at the anniversary ammo from Winchester. It’s a limited edition run with Ducks Unlimited for their 85th anniversary, and it brings back the old style of packaging for a nostalgic feel this waterfowl season.
Winchester Limited Edition Ducks Unlimited 85th Anniversary Ammunition is a great option for your waterfowl hunts. (Photo credit: Winchester Ammunition)
Matt Campbell, vice president of sales and marketing at Winchester Ammunition, made some remarks about the commemorative duck hunting ammo:
As the official ammunition of Ducks Unlimited and one their most longstanding supporters, Winchester remains steadfast in its commitment to conservation and wildlife habitat projects across North America. Ducks Unlimited volunteers continue to do excellent work for the betterment of waterfowl populations.
This limited edition run by Winchester commemorating Ducks Unlimited’s 85th year of conservation efforts comes in memorable packaging. (Photo credit: Winchester Ammunition)
Winchester released details about the ammunition and Ducks Unlimited’s conservation efforts:
In 1937, amidst the great depression and one of the worst droughts in history, a small group of visionaries came together to do their part to protect wetlands and the waterfowl that depend on them. Through the united efforts of sportsmen and women across the continent since then, 15-million acres of habitat has been restored and protected, benefitting hundreds of species of wildlife and providing untold recreational enjoyment for all.
Through innovative science, generous giving, and a committed network of volunteers, Ducks Unlimited has become the largest wetlands and waterfowl conservation organization in the world. Corporate partners like Winchester Ammunition, have played an important role in helping support this vital conservation work. Winchester continues to direct a significant amount of funding towards critical habitat projects each year, and hunters can help give back as well through the purchase of Winchester ammunition products.
The limited-edition Winchester XPERT steel waterfowl load is available in 12-gauge, 3-inch shells with a 1-1/4 ounce payload of number 2 shot, traveling 1,400 feet per second. The 85th anniversary packaging is loading now and will be available for waterfowl hunters for the 2022-2023 waterfowl season.
Ducks Unlimited has played a major role in waterfowl conservation for 85 years, and Winchester is producing the ammunition to celebrate their efforts. (Photo credit: Ducks Unlimited)
These shotshells are 12 gauge, the long-time favorite of waterfowl hunters. Winchester is producing their steel Xpert Waterfowl in 3-inch, 1 1/4 ounce loads. #2 shot is used in these loads and according to the manufacturer, it has a muzzle velocity of 1400 feet per second. Overall, the load data sounds tailor-made for ducks, as it should, and the packaging promises to be something you add to your collection long-term.
One of the reasons AR-15s are so popular is because they can be so easily customized and adjusted to fit specific shooters. As a result, there are a lot of aftermarket accessories available, all designed to do different things. The Strike Industries LINK Angled HandStop is made to improve the user’s control of their rifle.
The Strike Industries LINK Angled HandStop is meant to help users better control their rifles through the use of another gripping surface. (Photo credit: Strike Industries)
The Strike Industries LINK Angled HandStop with Cable Management System is a rearward angle setup for pull style grip options for better weapon manipulation control. This rail attachment assists in pulling the weapon into the shooters shoulder which aids in additional control and mitigating recoil. Textured front and rear finger areas for better grasp plus built-in front and rear barricade stop. The patented SI Link system allows mounting onto both M-LOK and KeyMod compatible devices for a bigger variety of applications. Also included is the patent pending SI Cable Management System (CMS) function which enables you to organize and store excess wire from your weapon light or any other cabled accessories. Cables can be routed alongside the handguard, across to the other side, 90-degrees, U-shape or Z-shape. Lightweight high-strength impact resistant custom blended SI Polymer Extreme material with a size and design to fit a wide variety of hands, the SI LINK Angled HandStop with Cable Management System is an excellent way to increase shootability of your weapon.
The Strike Industries LINK Angled HandStop comes with everything you need to mount it to your rifle’s handguard. (Photo credit: Strike Industries)
According to the manufacturer, the idea behind the LINK Angled HandStop is a modular system that’s compatible with both M-LOK and KeyMod thanks to its cable design. The LINK gives shooters the ability to grip their rifle with their support hand over a greater surface at a more natural angle than you get by holding onto the handguard alone. It’s made for simplicity and to fulfill a specific niche.
Product Features
Patented SI LINK mounting system compatible with both M-LOK and KeyMod
Built-in SI Cable Management System (CMS) with excess wire storage (patent pending)
Cables can be routed either alongside, across, at 90-degrees, U-shape, or Z-shape
Rearward angle for pull style grip options for improved weapon control during live fire
Textured front and rear finger areas for a positive grip
Built-in front and rear barricade stop
Lightweight design
High-strength impact resistant custom blended SI Polymer Extreme material for durability
Available in black or Flat Dark Earth
Compatibility: M-LOK and KeyMod
NOTE: LINK screws and nuts provided are not manufactured by Strike Industries. Please make routine checks that the screws and nuts are secure as part of the preventive maintenance of the firearm.
Torque: Do not exceed 20 in/lbs for the LINK screws.
Looking for grip-related accessories for your AR-15? Check out the LINK Angled HandStop. (Photo credit: Strike Industries)
LINK Angled HandStop Kit includes:
LINK Angled HandStop with Cable Management (1)
Screw (2)
Nut (2)
Torx key [T20] (1)
Loctite Threadlocker Blue 243® (1)
Warning card (1)
MSRP for the Strike Industries LINK Angled HandStop is $17.95.
Red dot sights are a fantastic addition to any gun. Not only can they speed up target acquisition and facilitate a clear sight picture, but they’re convenient and relatively easy to adapt to using. Of course, not everyone wants a dot that’s red, so what do you do if you want green, or hope to switch back and forth? You check out a red dot sight like the Konus Nuclear QR 1×22, which offers red or green at the flip of a switch.
The Konus Nuclear QR 1×22 is a red dot sight that has an option to run it as green. (Photo credit: Konus)
The manufacturer provides the following details of the Nuclear QR 1×22:
Konus is adding to its comprehensive assortment of competitively priced optics a new and truly invaluable option for the especially demanding tactical field. On top of its very compact size, the # 7215 Nuclear-QR Red/Green Dot is uniquely versatile because it comes with a dual mounting system and with a special riser that allows for a much higher placement on [AR-15 platform rifles] if needed.
You can therefore switch from the low mount (suitable for Weaver/Picatinny rails) to the high mount (suitable for Picatinny rails and with Quick Release) in a fast and practical way, while gaining an additional 0.9” height in the process.
The Konus Nuclear QR 1×22 has a dot that can be green or red. Pictured here are the buttons used to control color of the dot and brightness. (Photo credit: airguns.com)
Features of the Konus Nuclear QR 1×22:
Double high mounting system with quick release, and also low mounting system
Red or green dot, both 3 MOA
8 brightness intensities for each color, according to the manufacturer’s press release
Unlimited eye relief, adjustable to the user
Fog resistant, water resistant, and anti-shock
Low frame mount compatible with Weaver or Picatinny rail
High frame mount compatible with Picatinny rail
High precision tactical turrets
Battery life estimated at 200 hours depending on brightness setting
A look at some of the parts that come with the Konus Nuclear QR 1×22, and the battery it takes, which is not included. (Photo credit: airguns.com)
This is a lightweight red dot sight with added versatility thanks to its easy-to-use high or low mounts. According to the manufacturer, the Nuclear QR 1×22 is made for tactical applications and provides reliable performance. Battery life is estimated at 200 hours, which depends on the brightness setting the user runs it on. The ability to change to dot from red to green is also a good feature for users with astigmatism who might struggle to focus on a red dot.
Specifications
Diameter: 22mm
Length: 70mm
Weight: 140GR
Dot size: 3 M.O.A.
Brightness settings: 8
The Nuclear QR 1×22 has a dot that can be set to red or green. (Photo credit: Konus)
Do you have a red dot sight, or do you prefer green? Why not both? Tell us what your choice of red dot sight color is in the comments section below.
The High Speed Gear Special Missions Pouch is a highly versatile and adaptable pouch that allows the end-user the ability to wear or mount the pouch in three different ways.
The Special Missions Pouch from High Speed Gear is a highly versatile and adaptable pouch that can be worn by the user in three different configurations: hangar style, belt mounted, and waist pack style.
The first way the Special Missions Pouch can be worn is hanger style while attached to a plate carrier or placard.
The Special Missions Pouch can be belt mounted for the second way. Two loops on the back of the Special Missions Pouch allow for most common belts to be threaded through the loops making it a perfect admin pouch for range days.
With three different ways to wear the pack, the easily stowed loops tuck neatly inside the back of the pouch. This allows to quick changes in carry if necessary.
Thirdly, the Special Missions Pouch from HSGI can be worn waist pack style, as it comes with a provided back strap that allows the user to wear it around their waist making the pouch easy to attach and detach.
Additionally, the Special Missions Pouch was precisely designed for the ease of flex cuff storage. Elastic loops around the pouch allow for up to three flex cuffs to be stored on the outer edges of the pouch making it easy to deploy in one quick motion so that our users are not struggling with their gear while trying to detain an adversary.
In addition to the tree flex cuff loops on the outside of the pack, the internal pocket is spacious enough to hold quick needed items. The soft loop patch inside can be used to secure items from moving as well.
“At HSGI, we understand that that missions will change, and our users will need to adapt to those missions,” said Allison Mitchum, director of sales and marketing at High Speed Gear. “We continue to produce versatile American-made equipment to solve the needs for those who rely on it most.”
The Special Missions Pouch from High Speed Gear comes in 8 colors: Black, Coyote Brown, LE Blue, Multicam, Multicam Black, OD Green, Wolf Gray, and Woodland Camo. The pouch has an MSRP of $122.
HGSI Special Missions pouch is available in 8 different colors to match a variety of needs. Those colors are black, coyote brown, LE blue, Multicam, Multicam black, OD green, Wolf gray, and Woodland camo.
Specs
Length: 9.5” (24.13 cm)
Width: 7″ (17.78 cm)
Height: 1.5″ (3.81 cm)
Weight: 0.46lbs (211 g)
Features
Modular design for easy reconfiguration
Integrated loop panels for custom modification
Elastic webbing for storage of up to three flex cuffs
As rail handguards became standard after the turn of the century, many shooters began to notice an issue with them. Being made of aluminum and often bristling with Picatinny rails, these handguards didn’t guard the hand exceptionally well. Sure, it was better than grabbing a hot barrel, but they could be uncomfortable to use between the heat and the rails. That’s where Manta Rail covers from Manta Defense come into play.
Hot hands? Beat the heat with Manta Defense!
The focus for today our choice of the Manta Rail Covers, The TAC-Wrap. With a top cap mounted to the free-float M-LOK handguard of a rifle.
Numerous solutions have been proposed over the years. The first and most apparent were Picatinny rail covers, which are still available from multiple vendors today, in both the thicker snap- or slide-on styles or the thin ladder style. Vertical foregrips were extensively tested, too, and back in the day, some shooters were quite dogmatic about their ergonomic superiority.
Handguards, Picatinny to M-LOK
If you’re interested in seeing what types of setups shooters used in years past, this archived thread at AR15.com is full of pictures from a Pat Rogers Carbine Class in 2010.
However, as full-on quad rails gave way to free float tubes with attachable rail sections, the viability of rail covers diminished. Then came KeyMod and Magpul’s M-LOK, and now fully-railed handguards are a rarity.
Most free float handguards mounted to AR-pattern rifles today are M-LOK. Many, but not all, have a full top rail. Some have a full bottom rail. All have M-LOK slots for attaching accessories, such as grips, light mounts, or even modular rail sections. While this does eliminate the cheese-grater effect of grasping a bare Picatinny rail, it does nothing to mitigate heat buildup. In fact, given how slim some of these handguards are and how close they are to the barrel and gas block, they can get even hotter than their quad rail ancestors.
The heat from firing the weapon isn’t the only thing that can make a slim, aluminum handguard uncomfortable. If you’ve lived in the South or spent time in the Middle East, you know how hot metal can get when left out in the sun. A hot, sunny day at the range can make your rifle’s forearm too hot to hold with your bare hand.
A smooth metal handguard doesn’t make for a very tactile gripping surface, either, and might be slick in wet conditions. In cold weather, at or below freezing, an aluminum forend might be unpleasantly cold to the touch.
Manta Rail Covers vs. Gloves
You can, of course, wear gloves. However, there’s an argument to be made that you shouldn’t have an additional piece of personal protective equipment, along with your eye and ear protection, to shoot your guns. Several types of plastic M-LOK covers available can give you some heat protection and a better gripping surface, but what if you want something more substantial?
What if you forget your gloves?
Author in August 2012, shooting a friend’s AR-type rifle on a hot, sunny day without gloves. The Apex free-float handguard was light and slim, but it got unpleasantly hot between shooting and being out in the sun.
Manta Defense has a solution: the TAC-Wrap.
Manta Rail Covers: The TAC-Wrap
Right-side view of the TAC-Wrap mounted to the rear of the handguard. Bottom view of one of Manta Rail covers, the TAC-Wrap
The TAC-Wrap is a straightforward design made of a soft, tactile, rubbery material that’s very heat resistant. It is designed to clip to the top Picatinny rail of a handguard and wrap around the sides and bottom. The wrap itself weighs just over 5 ounces and is 5.75” long. Thick and ribbed (please compose your own jokes), it provides you with a comfortable gripping surface on your weapon’s forend. It will work on most slick, KeyMod, or M-LOK handguards between 1.25” and 2” in diameter. It will probably not work on a Picatinny quad rail type forend. Measure your handguard’s diameter before you buy.
The Tac-Wrap Instructions
Page 1 of the installation instructions. Page 2 of the installation instructions.
Mounting the TAC-Wrap is straightforward. It comes with two metal rods threaded on each end. Using the included lubricant (a tiny bottle of hand sanitizer), you slide the rods through the tunnels on either side of the TAC-Wrap. A plastic cross-bar clip goes at the front, and the rear of the wrap, and the whole thing is held together by four acorn nuts. You can attach it without tools, and you’ll need a few drops of blue thread locker. (If you skip the thread locker, the nuts may work themselves loose under recoil. If you lose one, you can order a replacement set from Manta for only $5.00.)
Angled shot showing the installation of the TAC-Wrap. An acorn nut goes on each end of the metal rods, securing them to the cross-bar clips. The TAC-Wrap is laid out and ready for installation. The TAC-Wrap Kit comes with the wrap itself, two rods, four acorn nuts, and four sets of cross-bar clips for different diameter handguards.
The Tac Wrap Kit
The TAC-Wrap kit comes with four sets of cross-bar clips that accommodate handguards of different thicknesses. You can mount the wrap wherever you like on the forend, provided you have top Picatinny rail sections where the cross-bar clips need to attach. From my experience, I would suggest making sure you know where you want to mount the wrap before you secure it in place because once affixed, it’s not quick-detach.
The complete kit costs $49.95 from the Manta Defense website and is available in four popular tactical colors: olive drab, flat dark earth, wolf gray, and basic black. When installed, it leaves the section of rail between the front and rear cross-bar clips exposed. If you prefer wrapping your thumb over the handguard, Manta also sells an optional top piece for $10.95. Alternatively, that top section might be an excellent place to mount a tape switch for a weapon light.
This top cap is made of the same heat-resistant, rubbery material as the wrap itself but is reinforced with metal inserts. The one I received was a bit too long to fit in the space between the two cross-bar clips, but it can be trimmed to the desired length. Keep in mind that you’ll need to cut around the metal inserts.
An Overview of the Manta Rail Covers
The optional top cap for the TAC-Wrap covers the Picatinny rail, providing a more comfortable grip if you like to shoot with your thumb over the top of the handguard. The Top Cap received was too long to fit in the space above the TAC-Wrap. However, it can be trimmed to whatever length you like.
Evaluation of the Manta Rail Covers
I installed the TAC-Wrap on my Sig Sauer 716i “Tread” rifle, caliber 7.62mm NATO, and put it through its paces. The wrap did exactly what it was supposed to and gave me a comfortable spot on which to place my support hand. However, even after shooting several magazines’ worth of ammunition, the TAC-Wrap was barely warmer than ambient temperature.
The wrap could have other uses as well. If you shoot from an improvised rest, even on a rough surface like concrete, the TAC-Wrap will protect the finish on your handguard from scratches. It’s useful for giving yourself an index reference if you’re concerned about maintaining a consistent shooting stance. You could use it to route a wire to a tape switch. If you have large hands, you might find the thicker gripping area provided by the TAC-Wrap more to your liking than the handguard itself.
Conclusions
I purchased the TAC-Wrap with my own money and have no relationship with the company. However, I became aware of them by their being mentioned in a Small Arms Solutions video on YouTube. I’m pretty pleased with the quality of the product and would definitely buy it again.
Suppose the TAC-Wrap isn’t to your taste. In that case, Manta Defense makes a variety of other heat-mitigation products that you may find helpful, including Picatinny rail and M-LOK covers, tape switch fasteners, rail covers with wire routing built into them, suppressor covers, grip wraps, and a barrel cover for the Browning M2 machine gun. Manta Defense is an American small business, and its products are made domestically in the State of Ohio. I would recommend them without reservation.
One of Manta Defense Rail Covers, the TAC-Wrap installed on the author’s Sig Sauer 716i “Tread” Rifle
Meticulously designed from the ground up to integrate directly with the industry’s most popular quick-detach variable-power optic mounts, ROTAPOINT’s new 34-degree offset red dot mount offers shooters a simple, rugged, and fast solution to transition effortlessly between primary and backup optics. With a consistent cheek weld and no head movement, a slight twist of the wrist quickly switches between optics.
ROTAPOINT has released its 34-degree offset red dot mount. This mount is designed from the ground up to integrate directly with the industry’s most popular quick-detach variable-power optic mounts, all at the twist of the wrist. But a word of caution, it is available in right-hand currently.
ROTAPOINT’s unique, patent-pending attachment method leverages the strength and stability of the primary optic mount’s cantilever and is secured with custom alloy steel Torx screws. This highly effective solution minimizes interference with existing optics, lasers, or flashlights, and reduces snagging. Furthermore, this method frees space on the upper receiver and handguard for other uses. Assembly takes under 3 minutes and does not require scope ring removal.
The mount integrates into existing mounts in less than three minutes and mounts the red dot off the side of the existing optic mount. The patent-pending attachment method leverages the strength and stability of the primary optic mount’s cantilever and is secured with custom alloy steel Torx screws.
Featuring carefully designed ergonomics—engineered with input from experienced SOF members and competitive shooters—ROTAPOINT provides the operator unmatched speed and accuracy from close quarters to 600 yards while adding only two ounces to the weapon system.
Once installed on the primary optic mount cantilever, the primary and secondary optics form a single unit and quickly and easily attach to and detach from the rifle.
Mounting the red dot on the side of the existing optic mount leaves the handguard free for other accessories that the shooter may need, without the clutter of traditional methods. The American-produced mount is made of 6061T6 aluminum and allows the shooter to have multiple sights/optics to meet their needs.
76: LaRue LT-104/-204, Leupold DeltaPoint Pro footprint
82: ADM STD-Scout and Recon cantilever mounts, Aimpoint Micro footprint
84: American Defense Manufacturing STD-Scout and Recon, Trijicon RMR footprint
86: ADM STD-Scout and Recon, Leupold DeltaPoint Pro footprint
Entirely designed, machined, and hardcoat anodized in the USA with 6061T6 aluminum, ROTAPOINT’s offset mount modernizes the most popular scope mounts already on the market. The ROTAPOINT 34-degree offset red dot mount comes in with an MSRP of $119.95.
Ergonomically designed by experienced SOF and competitive shooters, the ROTAPOINT 34-degree offset red dot mount is said to provide the operator unmatched speed and accuracy from close quarters to 600 yards, while adding only two ounces to the weapon system.
Features & Specs
Weight: 4 oz
Dimensions: 4 in x 4 in x 6 in
Black Anodized finish
Materials: 6061T6 Aluminum
Quick and Easy Installation
Optimized for 30mm scopes with < 7/8” windage dial protrusion
Designed for the fastest possible transitions and minimal snagging
Right-handed
Minimal Point of Impact Shift Mounting surface is perpendicular to the bore.
Made in USA. Patent Pending
Patti Miller is one of the most awesome females in the tactical/firearm (or any) industry. Imagine a tall, hawt, dangerous Laura Ingalls Wilder type with cool hair and a suppressed blaster and you’ll be getting the idea. What’s interesting is that in addition to being a willing brawler and intrepid adventuress, she’s also an Ent/Ogier level gardener and a truly badass baker.
If you spend much time transporting firearms in your vehicle, you’ve probably put some thought into how best to accomplish it. Should you just put your rifle loose in the back? Can it be wedged between the console and the seat? Grey Man Tactical answers those questions, and more, with their Rifle Rack Package, designed to secure your guns and gear so they’re right where you need them, when you need them.
The Grey Man Tactical Rifle Rack Package is made to secure your rifle in your vehicle, so it’s right where you need it at all times. (Photo credit: Grey Man Tactical)
Grey Man Tactical released the following details of their rifle package:
Safely secure your rifle, muzzle-down, housed in the Muzzle Cup Kit for a solid mounting solution for most muzzle devices. The rubber-coated steel cup kit not only secures the muzzle but also protects it from unnecessary wear and tear for ultimate protection.
The #203 package was created for customers who wanted a better way to store and transport a rifle muzzle down and still have access to magazines and gear. The QuickFist clamp complements the rifle mount, which securely holds the buffer tube of any AR15. Two AR15 mag pouches and a large utility pouch complete the package, providing additional storage for magazines and gear.
The Rifle Rack Package includes a Grey Man Tactical Muzzle Cup Kit. (Photo credit: Grey Man Tactical)
What’s in the Rifle Rack Package?
15.25 X 25 RMP (1)
Buckle Loop-Around + D-Ring Strap RMP Strap Black [Headrest] (1)
Buckle Loop-Around RMP Strap™ Black [Seat Bottom] (1)
G-Code Soft Shell Scorpion Mag Carrier [Rifle] – Black (2)
Large Utility Pouch (1)
Check out the video from Grey Man Tactical that covers the features of this package:
It’s a smart idea to find a way to keep your rifle secured while you’re driving. Whether you’re a hunter or focused on having a truck gun at your disposal for defensive purposes, you need your gun not only held in place but protected from damage as much as possible. With the Rifle Rack Package, that’s what you get. Not only does the rack clamp your gun in place, but the muzzle cup also protects the muzzle end of the barrel from damage and foreign objects.
A closer look at the rack mounted to a vehicle’s seat prior to the rifle or gear being set in place. (Photo credit: Grey Man Tactical)
MSRP for the Grey Man Tactical Rifle Rack Package is currently $419.99.
Would you use a rack like this to store your rifle on the back of your seat while you drive? Do you think it gives you enough access to the firearm in case of emergency? Tell us what you think in the comments section below.
I’m not much into stealth games, I mean, besides Syphon Filter. So I’ve not played the first four entries into the Sniper Elite series. After watching a friend play Sniper Elite 5, I gave it a chance. Plus, it’s free on Xbox Game Pass, so it’s not like I was out any cash to give it a try. I’m glad I did because I had an absolute blast playing the game.
Sniper Elite 5 has you playing as uber commando and sniper Karl Fairburne. (Possibly named in reference to W.E. Fairbairn?) The setting is France, 1944, and you’ve been dropped to help the resistance stop something called Operation Kraken. To be honest with you, the story isn’t a big deal here. I couldn’t remember much of it if my life depended on it.
You’re an allied sniper, and your goal is to kill Nazis, so the story is just an excuse to drop you into different environments to do just that.
Sniper Elite 5 — Sandbox Done Well
Sniper Elite 5 isn’t a free-roaming game in the same vein as Grand Theft Auto or Far Cry. Each level is self-contained but a sandbox unto itself. Players get dropped into a map and can approach the objectives and mission any way they want. Every objective seemingly has multiple angles of approach and various solutions.
Inside the levels, you’ll have main objectives that have to be completed for exfil purposes. Then you’ll have optional objectives gathered from found intel, as well as a high-ranking Nazi that needs killing. Doing these bonus kills and objectives unlock new weapons and experience for your character.
You can aim via first or third person.
Every rank gained delivers a skill point that allows you to choose different perks in three other ‘skill trees.’ These are combat, equipment, and body. Upgrading the different trees allow for different skills and abilities, but it’s super shallow and fairly simple.
Prior to every mission, you can upgrade your character or pause the game at any time to upgrade your skills. Also, prior to every mission, you can select your weapons and gear as well as customize your guns. We’ll talk more about that later.
Diving Into Sniper Elite 5
One thing that stands out to me in Sniper Elite 5 is the level design. It’s fantastic. These massive levels are well designed and allow for multiple, unique approaches to an objective. Maybe as you circle right, you see a machine nest, backed by a fireteam of Nazis. If you’re going stealthily, then this might not be the correct route for you. So, backtrack and approach the area in a different way.
The levels are open and allow for a lot of freedom of movement. As you navigate the levels, you can climb vines and ladders, vault over walls or through windows, climb under fences, and take zip lines when necessary. This freedom of movement allows for easy navigation and grants you the ability to get out of rough situations reasonably quickly.
If you’re sneaky enough you can listen to enemy conversations.
Obstacles all have different solutions. For example, let’s say you have a locked door. You can blow it to pieces with a satchel charge, or you can slowly and stealthy pick the lock, or maybe you hunt down and kill who has the key, which is both silent and quick.
Most of your killing will be made with your guns in Sniper Elite 5, but there are some creative ways to dispatch enemies. Exploding red boxes, barrels, and more show up, making it easy to take three Nazis working on a tractor out. You can lay down booby traps and mines and even plant grenades under dead nazis for other Nazis to find.
Maybe you drop a chandelier on a Nazi. Or, you plant a mine at the end of a bowling alley and take out a high-ranking Nazi who thinks he’s Randy Quaid from Kingpin.
The Action
Unsurprisingly Sniper Elite 5 puts a big emphasis on stealth gameplay. Lots of crawling through high grass and sniping from long distances. Throughout the game, elements allow you to conceal yourself and your shots. Planes flying overhead are loud enough to help silence your shots, and generators can be rigged to make noise for the same reason.
You enter a mission with three guns, a sniper rifle, a submachine gun, and a handgun. You start with two options in each category and can pick and choose between British and American firearms.
The X-ray shots show your bullet doing its damage.
The enemies in Sniper Elite 5 are pretty aggressive, and if discovered, you’ll be pursued mercilessly. They lay down gunfire at you or where they think you are. If you fire a loud shot, the enemies will isolate your position and come to that position. If you fire a loud shot and quickly sneak away, they’ll isolate the area they think you are.
All the different guns have different audible distances measured in meters. The louder the weapon, the more likely someone is to hear it. The use of suppressors and even subsonic ammo can reduce this noise. Additionally, a 9mm SMG isn’t as loud as a .30-06, which makes sense.
Also, if you find yourself outnumbered, I’d advise running. You won’t last long against a fire team of Nazis. That’s not how the game is played. Stealth matters a lot in this game.
The Kill Cam
The Sniper Elite games have this kill-cam feature. Occasionally, when you make an impressive shot, the camera will follow the bullet until it hits the bad guy. When it hits the bad guy, an X-ray camera will show it violently ripping through the bad guy’s head, lungs, and testicles.
The Xrays are quite gruesome.
The Guns and Ammo
Sniper Elite 5 is packed full of guns, both the guns you expect and guns you don’t. Sure, we have the M1911, the Thomspon, and even a scoped M1903, the usual suspects. However, we also see some experimental weapons like the Welgun, the SREM-1 pump-action, bullpup sniper rifle, and Welrod Mark 1.
The game allows you to pick one from each category before each mission, and you’ll unlock more firearms in the armory as you get bonus Nazi kills. Oh, also, there are some period-correct but oddly placed guns. For example, the Nambu Type 14 and Type 100 are both Japanese weapons that found themselves in France somehow.
The Welgun is one of many experimental weapons you can use in-game.
The damage guns do all over the place is typical for video games. Also, a .32 ACP gun, called the MAB Model D, randomly pierces armor with standard rounds. To be fair, an urban legend states that the .32 ACP pierced Nazi helmets more consistently than other pistol rounds. The Webley Mk VI is stupidly powerful, like a magnum-powered revolver.
The game does give a variety of weapons to the player. As you play the levels, you can pick up Nazi weapons to use temporarily. When out of ammo, or when you swap to an equipped weapon, you’ll ditch your battlefield pickup. This allows you to make on-the-fly changes to your equipment because sometimes you need an MG42.
Customization
Sniper Elite 5 features a deep and rich customization system. You can make some real Frankenguns through this system. Sure, you can attach suppressors to your guns, a Cutts compensator to your Thompson, and extended magazines.
The weapon customization goes fairly deep and far.
You can also get a little weird with it. Let’s attach a stock and three power scope to a 1911, cause why not? Let’s make it full auto, and get crazy with it. You can do that with most of the guns and make something that would make John Browning frown.
Players can grab different ammo types as well. You can swap between standard rounds to armor-piercing loads or subsonic. Each has its own strengths and weaknesses. Heck, there are even nonlethal loads, but don’t ask me why. These are the Nazis we are talking about. They only get the lethal lead.
Sighting In
Sniper Elite 5 is a very fun game. The only downside is that the objectives are rarely much different and tend to repeat themselves. However, the level design, enemy A.I., and multitude of solutions make the game a ton of fun and grant you some real replayability.
