If you’re going to carry a gun for self-defense, you know you need a quality holster. Did you know you also need a well-made gun belt, and that without one, it won’t matter how fantastic that holster is? A good gun belt is a must-have and a vital part of your carry gear. If you’re trying to find the right belt for you, check out High Speed Gear’s Vigil EDC Belt.
Looking for a well-made, sturdy gun belt? Take a look at the High Speed Gear Vigil EDC Belt. (Photo credit: High Speed Gear)
High Speed Gear’s senior designer, Daniel Chaney, remarked on the time and effort that went into the creation of the Vigil EDC Belt: “We have been working on the Vigil EDC belt for over two years. Since many of us at HSGI and Comp-Tac carry every day, we recognized a need for an EDC specific belt and started from the ground up on this design.”
The manufacturer released the following details regarding the Vigil EDC Belt:
[It] is designed for everyday carry and daily wear. It is rigid enough to support both inside-the-waistband and outside-the-waistband holsters, yet flexible enough to be worn comfortably all day. The belt features a minimalistic design with a low-profile magnetic buckle that fits through standard belt loops. The Vigil EDC Belt is made with nylon webbing wrapped in durable Cordura fabric providing a clean and striking appearance. As with all HSGI belts, the Vigil EDC Belt features multi-line stitching for stiffness and durability.
The Vigil EDC Belt is available in a wide range of colors and patterns including Multicam. (Photo credit: High Speed Gear)
Thanks in part to the variety of colors and patterns it is made in, this is a lower-profile belt that could blend into your clothes. Even its buckle, which is rugged and designed for ease of use and secure retention, is streamlined to fade into the background rather than standing out as something that might seem tactical. Having a quality gun belt for everyday use that doesn’t blatantly stand out as a gun belt is an excellent plan for gun owners.
The High Speed Gear Vigil EDC Belt is sturdy, reinforced, and made to hold up to regular use. (Photo credit: High Speed Gear)
High Speed Gear Vigil EDC Belt Details
Rugged Cordura fabric and nylon webbing construction
Multi-line stitched for stiffness and durability
Hidden adjustment tail for a clean appearance
Low-profile magnetic buckle
Fits through standard belt loops
Berry Compliant
Dimensions: Length 28 to 52 inches x .13 inches x 1.5 inches (exact weight depends on size)
Dimensions, Metric: Length 71.12 centimeters to 132.08 centimeters x .33 centimeters x 3.81 centimeters (exact weight depends on size)
Available in Black, Coyote Brown, MultiCam, OD Green, Wolf Gray, MultiCam Black, and M81 Woodland Camo
Offered in sizes Small through 3XL
Yes, it’s absolutely vital to pair a good gun belt with your holster. The two pieces of gear work together for the best possible retention and concealment. (Photo credit: High Speed Gear)
Beretta is well known for designing and manufacturing high-quality firearms. That’s really not a surprise considering the Italian gun maker was founded in 1526, which means Beretta has almost 500 years of experience backing it and all that expertise was used in the creation of the APX A1 FS pistol. Whether you’re in the market for a home defense pistol or a range gun, the Beretta APX A1 FS was designed to get the job done reliably and accurately.
The Beretta APX A1 FS is a full-sized pistol made to perform to exacting standards whatever application it’s used for. (Photo credit: Beretta)
According to the manufacturer, the pistol is the “ultimate convergence of form, function, and fortitude” and a fantastic choice for a wide range of uses. Beretta went on to release some details about their latest pistol:
The APX A1 takes the proven ergonomics and reliability of the APX family to the next level with integrated features derived from feedback from military, law enforcement, and tactical shooters. It aims for the highest levels in performance, safety, and quality to operate for any shooter in the field. Beretta passed every stringent test of the US Army MHS program with its APX pistol candidate and is used by professionals on the ground in more than 20 countries.
The Beretta APX A1 FS is the ideal blend of form and function. (Photo credit: Beretta)
This pistol is the full-sized version of the company’s popular APX A1 Carry gun. It has an overall length of 7.5 inches, a height of 5.6 inches, and width of 1.3 inches. Empty, the gun weighs 29 ounces. These specifications mean that although it’s considered a full-sized gun it remains streamlined enough for carry use with the right holster and gun belt. The APX A1 FS is a striker-fired gun chambered in 9x19mm and has a capacity of 10, 15, or 17 rounds depending on the configuration. In addition, it’s an optics-ready pistol, a great feature for shooters interested in mounting a red dot to their guns.
The Beretta APX A1 FS has aggressive, angled slide serrations at the front and back of the slide. (Photo credit: Beretta)
Beretta’s Pistol Product Manager, Nicola Lorenzi, made the following statement regarding the APX A1 FS:
Building on Beretta’s knowledge and history of performance, the APX A1 offers the most competitive feature set available today on the market. The APX A1 takes the proven ergonomics and reliability of the APX family to the next level with integrated features derived from feedback from military, law enforcement, and tactical shooters. It aims for the highest levels in performance, safety, and quality to operate for any shooter in the field.
This is a modular pistol with three interchangeable, integral backstraps for customization to fit the shooter’s hand. (Photo credit: Beretta)
Beretta APX A1 FS Features
Best-In-Class Trigger
Serrated Combat Trigger Guard
Tritium Front Sight w/ White Outline
Red Dot Optic-Ready Slide
Aggressive Slide Serrations
Extended Beaver Tail
Ambidextrous Slide Release
Reversible Mag Release (left or right)
Straight Grip Profile
Multiple Backstrap Sizes Included in the Box
MSRP for all three available capacities of the Beretta APX A1 FS is $529.00.
The mount you use to attach your optic to your rifle matters a great deal. Poorly-made or badly-designed mounts can make it impossible to hold zero or might fail entirely at the worst moment possible, so it’s a must to have a high-quality mount to go with your chosen optic. It’s always smart to go with a proven manufacturer. Trijicon is one such manufacturer and is well known and respected for both its optics and its mounts. If you’re looking for a solid quick release design, consider Trijicon’s Q-Loc Technology mounts.
Trijicon quick-release mounts with Q-Loc Technology are available for a wide range of mounts that are compatible with their extensive line of optics. (Photo credit: Trijicon)
Trijicon describes the Q-Loc Technology quick released mounts:
Q-LOC Technology is a patented quick release optics mounting system, featuring multiple proprietary recoil lugs to ensure total rail engagement. Shooters can easily remove and re-attach an optic with a Q-LOC mount without the need to confirm zero. Heavy-duty springs enable one-handed operation while also ensuring secure retention under hard and repeated recoil. Q-LOC mounts feature compact, circular knob designs to minimize the hazards of gear snags while also facilitating one-handed mounting and removal.
All Trijicon mounts with Q-LOC Technology are manufactured in the U.S. from 6061-T6 aluminum with precision-cut dimensions to accommodate any platform and ensure optimal placement on MIL-STD 1913, NATO, non-mil spec, and even damaged rails.
The Trijicon quick-release mounts with Q-Loc Technology have snag-resistant knobs. Their compact, circular design minimizes the hazards of gear snags. (Photo credit: Trijicon)
According to the manufacturer, the quick-release mount’s Q-Loc Technology allows for full rail engagement and a more solid base than many other designs. In fact, it’s so carefully designed that Trijicon states shooters won’t have to re-do zero when taking off an optic with this mount and then putting it back on the same rifle. Heavy-duty springs hold the mount securely to the rifle’s rail and proprietary lugs help keep it engaged.
Other features include precision-cut dimensions, rugged durability, and a matte black anodized finish. Trijicon’s quick-release mounts with Q-Loc Technology are available for a wide range of their optics including Bolt Action Mounts, Cantilever Mounts, ACOG/VCOG/Trijicon Electro-Optics Mounts, and Red Dot Mounts.
Trijicon’s quick release mount with Q-Loc Technology has a return to zero feature. Multiple proprietary recoil lugs ensure total rail engagement. Easily remove and re-attach without needing to confirm zero. (Photo credit: Trijicon)
John Trull, Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Trijicon, had the following to say about the quick-release mount:
We are excited to bring a family of quick release mounts to shooters and hunters that are strong enough to match the durability of our optics. We’ve applied the same precision in our manufacturing process for these mounts as we do our optics, as well as put them through the same rigorous Science of Brilliant testing, to make sure we’re delivering mounts that meet the standard of Trijicon quality.
The mount is machined from 6061 aluminum for outstanding, repeatable performance. (Photo credit: Trijicon)
MSRP varies depending on the optic the mount is designed to fit.
Upgrading your Ruger Mark IV or Mark IV 22/45 pistol is easy with an Apex Competition Trigger Kit. Available with either a black or red anodized flat-faced trigger, that is adjustable for over-travel, the kit is a significant performance upgrade for one of the most popular .22LR handguns on the market.
The kit includes trigger, sear, and hammer, along with a safety plate that maintains factory safety values.
Designed, tested, and manufactured by Apex to provide an improved, more responsive trigger pull in the Ruger Mk IV pistols, the Competition Trigger Kit replaces the factory trigger, hammer, and sear with Apex components. When installed, the kit lightens the trigger pull weight to approximately 3.0 lbs., reduces over-travel by approximately 80 percent and overall trigger travel by 25 percent, resulting in a lighter, crisper trigger break that is ideal for both the competition and recreational shooter.
The trigger kit is easy to install and lightens the trigger pull weight to approximately 3.0 pounds and reduces the over-travel by roughly 80 percent and overall trigger travel by 25 percent for a lighter, crisper trigger break.
Features and Specifications
Reduces trigger pull to approx. 3.0 lbs
Reduces trigger over-travel up to approx. 80 percent
Reduces overall travel approx. 25 percent
Delivers crisp trigger break
Maintains factory safety values
Easy To Install
Apex Part #: 117-114 (Black), 117-154 (Red)
MSRP: $160.00
In the box is an Action Enhanced Trigger, Hammer, and Sear. Also included in each kit is a safety plate that maintains factory safety values, even when put through Apex’s extensive drop-testing process which is conducted from six feet onto concrete. Additionally, in each kit is a magazine safety delete, which when installed, allows the pistol to fire without the magazine inserted. Installing this component is optional, but Apex recommends it be used for competition purposes only.
Upgrading the trigger in a Ruger Mk IV and Mk IV 22/45 pistols is easier with the Apex Competition trigger Kit.
The Apex Competition Trigger kit is available with an MSRP of $160.
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.
Do you love the FN SCAR? Interested in what is essentially a variant, or at least a close relative of the SCAR? Then you’re going to love the FN America Mid Range Gas Gun (MRGG) line. The MRGG lineup from the respected gun maker is currently made up of two rifles, the MRGG-A and the MRGG-S.
The FN America MRGG is, as its name suggests, a Mid Range Gas Gun. Although it has some SCAR-like features it is definitely a new model in its own right. (Photo credit: Soldier Systems)
The launch of the FN MRGG-A and MRGG-S was initially reported by Soldier Systems, who wrote:
Offered in two variants MRGG-A for Assault and MRGG-S for Sniper Support. The most glaring differences between the two variants are a 14.5″ barrel for MRGG-A and 20″ MRGG-S as well as different pistol grips and buttstock for the two versions. However, the side-folding adapter fits with an M4 standard buttstock so the shooter can configure the stock as he sees fit.
Controls are ambidextrous. Additionally, only MRGG-A offers full-auto fire. Otherwise, it’s semi and safe selectors for both, but it is more ergonomic than on the SCAR. There’s also a two-stage trigger which was designed in house.
The FN MRGG is designed for combat and is available as a full-auto or sniper model. (Photo credit: Soldier Systems)
Features of the guns include:
AR-style top-mounted charging handle
Non-reciprocating side charging handles
A combination forward assist and brass deflector
FN’s own two-stage trigger
Height adjustable bipod
Barrel lengths specific to their purpose (14.5 inch on MRGG-A and 20 inch on MRGG-S)
Highly customizable stocks and interchangeable barrels
Available in 6.5 Creedmoor and 7.62x51mm NATO
MRGG-A ships with a Gen 3 Vortex Razor 1-10×24 optic and a Badger C1 mount and Leupold Delta Point Pro backup sight
MRGG-S ships with a Gen 2 Vortex Razor 4-27×50 optic and a Spuhr 4002 mount with FN ELITY
The side-folding adapter on the FN MRGG fits with an M4 standard buttstock so the user can configure it to their specific needs. (Photo credit: Soldier Systems)
Interestingly, Soldier Systems also noted that there’s an “adjustable gas block with suppressed and unsuppressed settings while the Gas Regulator is now buried in the receiver assembly and redesigned to reduce flash while shooting under NODS.” This is a fantastic feature for FN to include in the MRGG’s design. From their high-quality overall design to the thought that obviously went into the controls, it’s clear FN created these rifles to be the ultimate combat-oriented Mid Range Gas Guns.
A look at the receiver and controls of the FN MRGG. (Photo credit: Soldier Systems)
Limited information is available regarding the FN MRGG-A and MRGG-S at this time. Stay tuned for more details as they become available.
What do you think of the MRGGs? Could FN eventually win the SOCOM contract that’s still up for grabs? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.
The Springfield Armory line of popular Emissary 1911 pistols includes the Emissary 4.25” in 9mm. Bridging the gap between duty and custom handguns, the Emissary delivers a bold and capable 1911 pistol with defense-minded features intended for serious use as well as convenient carry.
Springfield Armory expanded its Emissary 1911 pistol line to include the 4.25” Emissary in 9mm. It is said the pistol is a bold and capable 1911 pistol with defense-minded features intended for serious use as well as convenient carry.
The 4.25″ Emissary in 9mm from Springfield Armory blends form and function seamlessly in a firearm built for defense. Loaded with custom-grade features, it’s constructed with a forged stainless steel frame and forged carbon steel slide, with a beautiful two-tone finish. The distinctive squared trigger guard has been designed with additional room for ease of operation with a gloved hand.
The slide’s “Tri-Top” cut gives the Emissary custom styling, while a flattened top strap is finished with 40 LPI serrations to diffuse light and reduce glare. On top, the tritium and luminescent front sight on the Emissary pairs with a Tactical Rack U-Dot rear sight for easy target acquisition in all lighting conditions.
The 4.25” Emissary is constructed with a forged stainless steel frame along with a forged carbon steel slide, for a beautiful two-tone finish that adds to the overall lines and aesthetics of the pistol.
A bushing-less stainless steel 4.25″ bull barrel delivers maximum accuracy while reducing felt recoil and muzzle flip. In addition, the Emissary’s skeletonized hammer delivers ultra-fast lock times and combines with a solid-body, flat-faced trigger for top-end performance.
The Springfield 4.25” Emissary pistol’s slide features the “Tri-Top” cut to help diffuse light and reduce glare. Also on the slide is the Tridium front sight that matches up with the U-Notch rear sight.
The forged stainless frame’s front strap and mainspring housing are wrapped in a grenade-pattern texture for firm engagement in adverse conditions, which are matched with slimline grip panels by VZ Grips machined from G10. Each pistol comes with two top-quality 9-round stainless steel magazines with base pads. MSRP is $1,349.
“With its more compact slide and barrel length and the ever-popular 9mm chambering, this newest addition to Springfield Armory’s 1911 family of pistols provides an excellent option for a defensive handgun with an added level of refinement,” says Steve Kramer, Vice President of Marketing for Springfield Armory.
The Emissary boasts a stainless steel 4.25″ bull barrel that reportedly delivers maximum accuracy while reducing felt recoil and muzzle flip. To round out the pistol, the grenade-pattern texture on the frame allows for a firm grip even in unforgiving elements.
The Emissary 4.25″ 9mm is truly a refined 1911 built for self-defense, blending the best elements of a defensive handgun and a custom pistol to create a gorgeous and capable firearm that stands ready to deliver.
Maxim Defense is manufacturing suppressors. Beginning with one for a belt-fed, then the DSX-D (Duty Suppressor System – Direct Thread) suppressor, plus the DRF-22 (Direct Thread Rimfire) suppressor, with more to come. And none other than industry legend Phil Dater is helping them do it.
Maxim Defense has upgraded its offerings to include suppressors, with the help of industry legend, Phil Dater, formerly of Gemtech Suppressors. Initial offerings include one for a belt-fed, the DSX-D (Duty Suppressor System – Direct Thread) suppressor, and the DRF-22 (Direct Thread Rimfire) suppressor with more coming down the pipe.
Maxim Defense Suppressor Development
After S&W acquired Gemtech Suppressors and moved the company cross country, Maxim Defense was privileged to hire many of the talented people who remained behind. One of those people was Phil Dater. You might remember his name from the founding of Gemtech and the excellent work done by Antares Technologies in the modern small arms and suppressor industry.
Michael Windfield, founder and owner of Maxim Defense, launched the development of Maxim’s suppressors with the directive, “We do the hard stuff first.” Hard stuff in this context refers to successfully suppressing an FN MAG belt-fed machine gun, which they did.
Having checked that box, they began developing a full line of suppressors. Those devices are now dropping sound levels well below the OSHA hearing safe threshold of 140dB. For example, the average measurements taken per MILSTD-1474D while testing the DSX-D suppressor were 134dB on a 10.3″ AR-15 chambered in 5.56 and 114dB with the DRF-22 rimfire suppressor. These sound levels were measured at the shooter’s ear.
Maxim Defense DSX-D Suppressor
The DSX-D, or the Duty Suppressor System – Direct Thread suppressor, is a MonoKore design that was designed to be robust and strong enough to withstand full-auto fire in 5.56mm, 7,62mm, and 6.8 Creedmoor.
The DSX-D (Duty Suppressor System – Direct Thread) suppressor is specifically designed to minimize a suppressed weapon system’s violent cyclic rate and gas blowback.
The suppressor consists of a three-piece MonoKore design that adds 7.25″ to the muzzle of the rifle. The DSX-D is rated for full auto in all available calibers; 5.56mm, 7.62mm, and 6.5 Creedmoor.
There is, however, an 8.5″ barrel restriction. Additionally, the suppressor can be pinned to a 10.3″ barrel to give you a 16″ overall barrel length essentially.
DSX-D Suppressor Features
State of the art MonoKore Design
Simple three-piece design
Constructed of military-grade materials (Grade-5 Titanium and 17-4 Stainless Steel)
Drops the sound level below the OSHA hearing safe threshold of 140dB
Purposely built for each available caliber (5.56, 7.62, 6.5 Creedmoor)
The suppressor core has integrated carbon cutters for easy tube cleaning
Full auto rated in all available calibers
Ships with direct thread mount (1/2×28 for 5.56 or 5/8×24 for 7.62 and 6.5 Creedmoor)
Disassembles with standard tools for end-user serviceability
DSX-D Suppressor Technical Specs
Diameter: 1.75″ outer diameter
Material Composition: Grade-5 Titanium and 17-4 Stainless Steel
Weight: 21 ounces
Overall Length: 7.9″
Finish: Cerakote and DLC (Diamond-Like Coating)
The DSX-D and the DRF-22 suppressors have a MonoKore design and can be disassembled with standard tools and are user-serviceable.
DSX-D Suppressor Testing Protocol
The Duty Suppressor System is built for the world’s most rigorous demands; this suppressor is designed to be the most robust and strongest suppressor in its category.
It has been repeatedly tested with SOCOM tables across various calibers and barrel lengths, down to 8.5″ 5.56 NATO with M855 ball ammunition. It has survived with no damage or significant change in sound reduction.
SOCOM Firing Table test is conducted using eight fully loaded 30-round magazines, fired sequentially at different rates, from 1 round per second to a full auto mag dump.
Magazine #1 – 1 round per second
Magazine #2 – 2 rounds per second
Magazine #3 – 1 round per second
Magazine #4 – 3 to 5 round bursts
Magazine #5 – 1 round per second
Magazine #6 – 2 rounds per second
Magazine #7 – 1 round per second
Magazine #8 – full auto mag dump
Maxim Defense DFR-22 Rimfire Suppressor
The DRF-22, or the Direct Thread Rimfire suppressor, has a simple three-piece MonoKore design and is constructed of military-grade materials. The DRF-22 is designed for .22lr pistols and rifles chambered in .22lr, .22MAG, and .17HMR.
The DRF-22 (Direct Thread Rimfire) Suppressor is specifically designed to minimize the increase in cyclic rate and gas blowback of a suppressed rimfire firearm. Design features include the significant reduction of sound signature, decreasing flash signature, reduction of recoil, and an increase in overall accuracy.
DRF-22 Rimfire Suppressor Features
State of the art MonoKore Design
Simple three-piece design
Constructed of military-grade materials
No detectable first round pop
Designed explicitly for .22LR pistols and rifles chambered in .22LR, .22MAG, and.17HMR
Disassembles with standard tools for end-user serviceability
DRF-22 Rimfire Suppressor Technical Specs
Diameter: 1.0″ outer diameter
Material Composition: 7075-T6 Aluminum and 6AI-4V Titanium
Weight: 3.5 ounces
Overall Length: 5.9″
Finish: Type III MIL-SPEC hard coat anodizing and DLC
Weaver has been an industry leader in high-performance optics and mounting systems for more than 80 years. The company offers multi-slot base options to include those for the Savage AXIS rifles. They accept all Weaver Top Mount Rings and Picatinny style rings and accommodate mounting scopes, red dots, laser optics, and more. Because of their one-piece, multi-slot design, rings can be moved forward or back for optimal eye relief.
The Weaver multi-slot bases for the Savage AXIS rifles all use 8-40 screws and include a standard 0 MOA model, an extended 0 MOA model, and an extended 20 MOA model.The models for the Savage Axis include a standard 0 MOA multi-slot base with 8-40 screws, a 0 MOA extended multi-slot base with 8-40 screws and a 20 MOA extended multi-slot base with 8-40 screws.
Weaver Optics upgraded their multi-slot base options to include those for the Savage AXIS rifles. Weaver is best known as an industry leader for optics and mounting systems for more than 80 years.
“The latest offerings from Weaver were specifically developed to be compatible with the Savage Axis rifles that feature the new receiver which requires a larger 8-40 screw,” said Monte Koenigs, product manager for Weaver. “These rifles are quite popular and now consumers have even more mounting options including a 20 MOA base that is canted down to allow for more elevation adjustments at extended ranges. Each scope base is made in the USA and makes for a great match for any Savage Axis rifle.”
Weaver multi-slot bases are constructed of tough yet lightweight aluminum to withstand the most powerful of rifle recoils. Additionally, all accept Weaver Top Mount Rings and Picatinny style rings and can accommodate mounting scopes, lasers, and red dots to name a few.
Weaver Multi-Slot Bases are constructed with tough, lightweight aluminum to withstand the most powerful recoil. They are durably made in the U.S. and have an MSRP of $16.95.
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.
Whether you’re in the market for a full-sized or micro-carry gun, Kimber has you covered. The latest from the well-known gun maker include the RAPIDE (Dawn) and RAPIDE (Scorpius) Custom 1911s, the R7 Mako, and the Micro 9 Raptor Shadow. This gives gun owners and those in search of the ideal concealed carry gun quite a few options in addition to the company’s existing line.
Kimber R7 Mako
The Kimber R7 Mako is offered with a red dot already installed, but if you prefer you can also get the gun simply optics ready. (Photo credit: Kimber America)
The Kimber R7 Mako, which the manufacturer states changed “the face of the concealed carry market” is being offered in a model for restricted states. The Mako ships with a high-capacity, flush-fit standard magazine, and a higher-capacity extended magazine. It is available as either optics ready or with the red dot sight already installed, options which affect the price. This is a micro-compact, semi-automatic, striker-fired pistol with a polymer frame. It has forward and rear angled slide serrations, a textured grip, and a smooth, consistent trigger pull. The Kimber R7 Mako was specifically designed for reliable performance and concealability.
According to the manufacturer, the Kimber R7 Mako has a smooth, consistent trigger pull. (Photo credit: Kimber America)
Features of the R7 Mako include:
Optics-Ready Slide
Performance Carry Trigger
FNC Hard-Coated Barrel
Deep-Cut Muzzle Crown
Near Full-Wrap Grip Texturing
Undercut Trigger Guard
Ambidextrous Controls
MSRP starts at $599.00
Kimber Rapide Dawn
The Kimber RAPIDE Dawn isn’t just a 9mm; it’s also available in 45 ACP and 10mm. (Photo credit: Kimber America)
For fans of larger calibers, the Kimber RAPIDE Dawn and RAPIDE Scorpius are available chambered in 45 ACP and 10mm in addition to the original 9mm. The RAPIDE line is made up of full-sized 1911s and is designed for durability and smooth performance in every caliber.
Specifications for Kimber RAPIDE Dawn:
Height (inches) 90° to barrel: 5.25
Weight (ounces) with empty magazine: 40
Length (inches): 8.7
Magazine capacity: 9
Recoil spring (pounds): 12.0Mil-Spec guide rod
Frame material: Stainless Steel
Frame finish: Silver, KimPro II w/brush polished flats
Frame width (inches): 1.28
Slide material: Stainless steel
Slide finish: Silver, KimPro II w/brush polished flats
Slide serrations: Front serrations
Barrel length (inches): 5.0
Barrel material: Stainless steel, match-grade w/ Gold TiN FInish
Other barrel features: Match grade bushing
Twist rate: 1 in 16, LH
Sights: Tru-Glo TFX Pro Day Night w/Orange ring front
Grips: Gray/black RAPIDE G10 grips
Trigger: V-Cut aluminum
Trigger pull weight: 4.0 to 5.0 pounds, factory
MSRP for the RAPIDE line starts at $1713.00
Kimber Rapide Scorpius
The Kimber RAPIDE Scorpius is available in 9mm, 45 ACP, and 10mm. (Photo credit: Kimber America)
Kimber released the following statement regarding the Micro 9 Raptor Shadow:
The Micro 9 Raptor Shadow is released as an exclusive offering in celebration of the return to the NRA annual meetings. Our limited edition is available from May 1st thru August 31st. The Micro 9 Raptor Shadow features our Black KimPro II finish on a stainless-steel slide and aluminum frame. Combined with black micarta grips, the new Raptor is built to the same dimensions as the Micro 9 Raptor (Stainless) and features the new Micro 9 Tac-Mag with 7+1 capacity. The stainless-steel, match-grade barrel sports a durable DLC finish, and Meprolight night sights deliver quick acquisition on target, with superior visibility. MSRP is $1,018, which is the same price as the stainless model and shipments will begin in May.
Do you prefer micro or full-sized handguns for defensive use? Tell us about your experience in the comments.
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.
When you’re looking at buying a new gun, it’s easy to focus on the features of a handgun that can’t be altered rather than worrying about parts that can be replaced after the fact. In fact, it’s even sensible, especially when there are manufacturers like XS Sights out there designing and producing high-quality aftermarket accessories like high-visibility sights. The XS Sights line of iron sights covers an extensive variety of firearms, including standard height sights for the HK VP9 Optics Ready Pistol.
XS Sights R3D Night Sights are available for the HK VP9 Optics Ready Pistol with a high-visibility front sight post. (Photo credit: XS Sights)HK VP9 with R3D sights. (Photo: XS Sights)
XS Sights released the following regarding their HK VP9 Optics Ready Pistol compatible sights:
XS Sights is pleased to extend its night sight offerings for the HK VP9 Optics Ready Pistol. Standard-height R3D with orange front sight and DXT2 Big Dot sights with orange or yellow front sights are now available for this popular HK pistol, in addition to the recently released Suppressor/RMR Height sights in the R3D and Minimalist models. All result in faster and more accurate target acquisition in high-stress situations and when shooting on the move.
XS Sights R3D Night Sights are a great option for gun owners in need of low-light-friendly iron sights for their HK VP9 Optics Ready Pistol. (Photo credit: XS Sights)
Many handguns ship from the factory with basic three-dot sights or some style of sights not well suited to the shooter’s needs. That’s where XS Sights comes in with their standard height sights for the HK VP9 Optics Ready Pistol. Among the available options are the company’s R3D Night Sights, DXT2 Big Dot Night Sights, and Individual Front and Rear Parts. Sights are made with high-visibility orange or yellow front sights and a contrasting black rear sight with tritium two-dot inserts for the R3D or a rear notch for the DXT2 Big Dot.
The XS Sights R3D Night Sights have a two-dot tritium rear sight. (Photo credit: XS Sights)
Gun owners looking for a larger sight will be well served by the XS Sights DXT2 Big Dot, which is designed for rapid target acquisition and overall ease of use. The DXT2 has a bright orange or yellow front post and notched rear sight for contrast. Big dot styles such as this can be gentler on the shooter’s eyes and make getting on target and staying there simpler.
The XS Sights DXT2 Big Dot Night Sights are made so they can be seen more easily while facilitating rapid target acquisition. (Photo credit: XS Sights) HK VP9 with XS Sights DXT2 Big Dot Night Sights. (Photo: XS Sights)
Features of XS Sights Individual Front and Rear Parts for HK VP9 Optics Ready Pistol:
Tritium powered front and rear sight
High-contrast colored front sight
Glow dot absorbs ambient light and glows in low light
The rear sight overhang reduces glare
Anti-reflective rear tritium lens
Rear sight face serrations reduce glare in bright light
Rear sight ledge for one-handed slide manipulations
Durable CNC machined steel
10 Year Warranty
30 Day Satisfaction Guarantee
Fits standard holster options
MSRP varies by product and starts at $116.00 for sets or $59.00 for individual parts.
