GearExpert

It’s Not What You Carry, But How

Mar 9 • Reviews • 12911

It’s 2016 and there is some form of concealed carry in every state. But while some have been carrying for years and have their favorite gear well broken in, others are just beginning the process. So let’s cover some modern carry options.

OWB

Yes, you can carry outside the waistband and still be concealed as long as you use the right holster and jacket. You want the holster to ride high on the belt and the jacket to have enough length to cover the holster. An excellent OWB holster, especially if you have the Glock 43 or S&W SHIELD, is the Galco Combat Master. If you are looking for OWB but think that you may want to carry inside the waistband occasionally, then the Galco Corvus has you covered. Be mindful that depending on how you move, different jackets will “ride up” differently and may expose part of the holster.

Galco Corvus shown OWB

IWB

For Inside The Waistband, there are an overwhelming number of quality options. While appendix carry is gaining popularity, I still prefer strong side carry just behind the hip. The Blade Tech KLIPT holster can be worn in either spot even though it is intended for appendix carry. I found that rather impressive, especially since they have Crimson Trace Laserguard compatible models. I’m holding out for the Laserguard Pro though so I’m counting on Blade Tech to have a compatible version when that is released. For Glocks especially, I really like Raven Concealment and Armordillo Concealment. The RCS Eidolon is quite comfortable when carrying a G17 with an optic and the Lux by Armordillo allows you to carry several different guns with the same weaponlight since the holster locks onto the weaponlight and not the firearm.

Galco Corvus shown IWB

Apparel/Off Body

Depending on the attire you plan to wear, carrying a firearm may not be feasible. Instead of having to change your wardrobe, consider changing your carry style. There are many types of apparel out there designed to conceal and retain a firearm. Whether it’s a 5.11 holster shirt or the new Undertech Leggings, you can add a base layer to your outfit so you don’t have to carry on your belt. If that still doesn’t work for you, there are plenty of bags designed to carry a firearm. I love my Maxpedition Versipack and would definitely recommend the Vertx EDC Commuter Sling bag for a more traditional backpack look. For women, Gun Tote’n Mamas has a complete line of bags in various styles to meet your personal preference. Galco and Bulldog Cases also have some great carry bags that should be appealing to ladies.

Galco Pandora Handbag

As you can see, there isn’t a single “best” way to carry. Depending on your body type, planned attire, and firearm specifics, your preferred method of carry can change. Don’t be afraid to try out a variety of holsters until you find what fits you best. If it’s not comfortable, you won’t wear it and then you won’t have your firearm when you need it. So whatever style you prefer, make sure you practice drawing and get used to wearing it before you start carrying.

Draw fast, reholster slow, and stay safe.

Matt S. • No Comments on It’s Not What You Carry, But How
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Never Leave Home Without…What?

Mar 8 • Reviews • 9165

Too often, the “best tool” for the job ends up being whatever you have on hand at the time. So let’s cover some Every Day Carry items that were at SHOT 2016.

Victorinox Classic SD

Multitool

In my opinion, if you are going to carry one thing, make it a multi tool. There are lots of options to choose from, whether it’s something small and simple like a Victorinox or big and complicated like a Leatherman, but I would make sure it has at least a flat head, a Phillips, and a knife. The stronger the material, the more versatile those 3 items can be. If you like a bigger array of tools, the Leatherman Skeletool is a great choice that won’t weigh you down. New for 2016 is their Skeletool RX which is designed for first responders. What most people don’t consider is that anyone can technically be a first responder and often it happens when you least expect it. So if you have the will to act, make sure you have the right tools with you.

Leatherman Skeletool RX

Knife

Considered by many to be the heart of EDC, and rule #9 for any L.J. Gibbs fans, I never leave home without a knife. Since there were more new knives than I could count at SHOT, check out my knife overview. But for EDC specifically, I look for affordable (read replaceable) and durable. The Benchmade Precinct is a knife I would carry, as well as the CRKT Tighe Tac Two. The Kershaw Emerson CQC-9K is another great choice. I carry the Emerson EDC-2 and absolutely love it. I actually have a rotation of EDC knives, so that I can tailor my choice to what I will be wearing and where I will be going.

CRKT Tighe Tac Two

Flashlight

A seriously overlooked component is the flashlight. Invaluable when you need light and pretty useful for impact applications if you get one built tough enough. Less is more for EDC flashlights with me. Multi-function electronics are inherently weaker and while 600 lumens is powerful, it isn’t very useful when the battery runs out in less than an hour. Elzetta is not only a top light manufacturer with rock solid, modular lights but their website is also an excellent resource for flashlight education. Their new CQB weapon lights were a hit at SHOT but for EDC I go with their Alpha series. Surefire released more models with their intellibeam technology like the P3X Fury, although I still like the P2X Fury size better for EDC.

Surefire P2X Fury Intellibeam

Carry Bag

Now that you’ve got some EDC items picked out, your pockets might feel a little full so you may want to consider packing an EDC bag. I am a huge fan of Maxpedition bags and their new AGR line looks awesome. Whether it’s a bag you leave in the car most of the time or carry it with you everywhere you go, they have options for every application and an array of add on pouches for a highly modular setup. Definitely check them out.

Maxpedition AGR Line

Footwear

Last but not least is the everyday carry item that carries you, your footwear. Salomon Forces new model of the Toundra looked very nice and would be handy with the late snow we’re still getting in the Midwest, but may not work for those of you in warmer climates. I would recommend trying on the Lowa Ranger III GTX, lightweight and waterproof but still able to breathe, this is a great all terrain boot. Bates Footwear was showing off their new powersports line at SHOT, rightly figuring that those of us who like to pull the trigger typically like to twist the throttle as well. I snagged a pair to try so keep an eye out for a write up, just as soon as we get some dry pavement and warm weather around here.

Lowa Ranger III GTX

Whether you never leave home without a knife, or are doing daily pocket dumps on Instagram, there are countless benefits to carrying a few simple items with you regularly. Just make sure the stuff in your pockets is worth its’ weight in utility.

Matt S. • No Comments on Never Leave Home Without…What?
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Get Stabilized! Monopods, Bipods, Tripods, and Shooting Sticks: What is the best option for your purposes?

Mar 4 • How-To • 26955

A long day at the range or out on the hunt can get exhausting. Holding up your rifle or shotgun to scan the field for game, lying prone, or sitting at the bench while trying to hone in on your long distance target can cause some muscle fatigue in your supporting arm. What’s a great way to combat this issue? Get stabilized! Try a bipod or shooting stick. Many bipods are very affordable, but remember: you do get what you pay for. Higher end bipods definitely offer more options, and are constructed much more durably and with better materials than their less expensive counterparts.

Bipods

Harris Engineering BR Bench Rest, Solid 1A2 Base 6-9in Bipod BR1A2

When shooting from a bench, being a fraction of an inch off of your mark can mean missing your target by a couple of inches, or even a few feet. Bipods are an excellent addition to any hunting or tactical long gun. They are available in multiple heights, with multiple functions. They come in many popular tactical colors, and some even offer a ruggedized or rubber coating for extra protection against the elements. The many options available can make selecting the right product quite tiresome and confusing. Here is some basic information on how these accessories work and how they are categorized:

How do I attach them to my rifle?

Bipods are attached in a few different ways. Most tripods mount to the swivel stud on the forend of the firearm. Hunting style rifles will typically include this stud straight from the factory. If not, we do offer a few different swivel stud kits that can be used with most rifles or shotguns.

Caldwell XLA Fixed Position Bipod – 379852

Tactical rifles with a quad rail or picatinny rail under the barrel can use a bipod that attaches directly to that rail.

Leapers UTG Tactical OP Bipod Sniper Profile TL-BP88

Also, there are some bipod makers that have introduced bipods that are two separate pieces, and attach to the quad rail in the 3 and 6 o’clock positions.

Command Arms Accessories CAA – Side Rail Mount Bipod 8-12inch SBP

Some manufacturers also offer a mount that will attach around the barrel of the firearm if neither option is available on your long gun. These provide a sturdy, solid mount.

Barska Barrel Clamp Bipod, High Height – AW11892

If you’re using a hunting rifle with a swivel stud: use a stud mounted bipod. If you’ve got a nice tactical set up, or you’ve sprung for a fancy quad rail; use a picatinny mounted bipod. Many bipods will only have the swivel stud option, so swivel to picatinny adapters are available, as are picatinny to swivel adapters.

Blackhawk Swivel Stud Picatinny Rail Adapter, Black 71RA00BK

Pro Mag Harris BiPod Rail Adapter – PM108

One manufacturer that is an exception to the rules above is Versapod. Versapod uses a proprietary mount that installs on a swivel stud or picatinny rail (multiple options are available). This mount provides a horizontal post that extends forward, and allows any of the Versapod bipods to be mounted to the post. This design gives the user a bit more room to “pivot” the firearm, which is great for quick shooting on uneven ground. Though they are a bit more pricey, the Versapod bipods are a great bang for the buck.

Versa-Pod Q.D. Sling Stud Bipod Adapter – 150-110

Pivoting, traversing, tilting, panning….. huh?

Many bipods are only available in a fixed position, meaning that the only option you’ll have is to flip the legs down or up, and depending on the model, adjust the height of the legs. However, there are other options available. You may see the terms “Panning; tilting; pivoting.” Depending on the manufacturer, the terminology being used mostly mean the same thing. Panning/traversing will allow the shooter to “scan” their area, or move the weapon left to right while the bipod provides a steady base. Pivoting allows the shooter to twist the rifle in a clockwise/counter clockwise manner, letting the user get more stable on an uneven surface. Some models allow the legs to be adjusted quickly, so uneven surfaces should never be an issue. Obviously, moving the firearm up and down for elevation changes can be performed with any bipod.

What about the legs and feet?

To deploy the legs of a bipod, the user typically pulls the legs to the down position. Many models also have spring loaded legs, which allows the user to deploy the bipod AND retract the legs quickly.

Versa-Pod BattlePack Bipod LTD, 9 -12 in. – 159-529

There are a few different options available for the “feet” of the bipods. Most will have rounded, rubber feet. In some models, these rubber feet can be retracted, exposing steel spikes that can be used for extra grip on harder surfaces. Some bipods offer “ski feet” or “raptor feet.” These options really just come down to preference, though the designs are intended for specific terrain.

What about the height?

The height you need all depends on what position you will be shooting from. The lowest option will typically be 6-9 inches, and is good for shooting from a bench, or in the prone position. If you need a few more inches of height in these positions, then a 9-12 inch height will help. The highest heights are typically 13-25 inches or so, and work great from a kneeling or sitting position. Shooting sticks are usually great for shooting from a seated/kneeling position, all the way to standing straight up.

Keep in mind that some bipods simply have 2 heights; basically closed and open. However, many models do have notched legs. This allows the legs to be adjusted to different heights for use in uneven terrain. The notches will provide a solid base under recoil. It also allows the user to set the bipod to the best height for their purposes.

Monopods and Bipods for tactical use

A few manufacturers offer vertical grips that convert into bipods via a spring mechanism. The Samson Grip Pod is an example of this design. In the closed position, this grip can be used as a monopod. In the open position, the stability of a bipod is easily obtainable.

Samson Grip Pod Black GPA-000-GP1

Other models, such as the FAB Defense Vertical Foregrip & Incorporated Bipod, can also be used as a short monopod. However, the hinged grip does split in two halves to create a bipod with retractable legs. This does provide a wider, more solid base for the shooter, but does not allow much use of the product as a foregrip in the deployed position.

FAB Defense Vertical Foregrip & Incorporated Bipod – PodB

Shooting Sticks, Monopods and Tripods

Do All Outdoors Dead-On 360 quick action Shooting Stick, Mono DOC1, Mono DOC3, Bipod DOC2, and Bipod DOC4

Vanguard PRO T68 Tripod Shooting Stick, 68in. – 341093

A fraction of an inch off of your mark during a hunt can mean only wounding your game, or missing your target altogether. Shooting Sticks are made mostly with the hunter in mind. They are usually available in tall heights to enable the user to make quick shots from a standing, kneeling, or sitting position. Shooting sticks come in a variety of options; 1 legged, or “monopod;” 2 legged, or “bipod”; or 3 legged, or “tripod.” These devices also double as walking sticks to help the user navigate the rugged terrain that many hunters encounter during their trips. This type of support does not attach to the rifle, but rather provides a “yoke”, or V/U shape in the handle to allow the user to steady their shot. They are typically made of a lightweight material, such as aluminum or fiberglass, and can be retracted into a compact unit for easy storage and transport.

Shooting sticks are really intended for the shooter who is on the move. Since they are mostly height adjustable, and fairly less cumbersome, they can also be deployed in treestands and blinds. Shooting sticks are also a great addition to your setup for stalking game.

But you mentioned a “tripod.” What gives?

As you’ll see above, there are shooting sticks that offer 3 legs for increased stability. Most rifles in circulation won’t need any more than 1 or 2 legs. Yet, there is some heavy weaponry that can use a tripod. For example, the Browning M1919 would use the AIM Sports USGI M2 Tripod Replica for M1919. Since weapon tripods are mostly intended for use with heavy machine guns used by militaries, not a whole lot are available for the consumer market.

AimSports M2 Replica M1919 Usgi Tripod – BPG3

Whoa, that was a lot of information!

It’s understandable that picking the right bipod or shooting stick can be fairly confusing. I hope that the information provided will assist you in purchasing the “pod” that suits your needs. What is your preference? How do these types of support systems help you? Did we miss anything above? Let us know by commenting below!

Mike C • No Comments on Get Stabilized! Monopods, Bipods, Tripods, and Shooting Sticks: What is the best option for your purposes?
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Can You Hear Me Now? Good

Feb 24 • Reviews • 19564

One of the best comments I’ve recently heard about firearm’s regulations was that if the first firearm was invented tomorrow, OSHA would mandate that suppressors be sold with every gun. If you were at SHOT Show this year, you might’ve gotten the impression that was true. Coming from the restrictive state of IL, I had never gotten to use a suppressor before. After media day, I felt like I had been using them for years.

Browning Black Label .22 with Osprey Micro

Just like we saw the nationwide push and battle for conceal carry in every state, suppressor reformation is the new front line in the war on firearm regulations. Here’s some base information in case you live in a dark state like me.

According to Wikipedia, “A suppressor, sound suppressor, sound moderator, or silencer is a device attached to or part of the barrel of a firearm or air gun which reduces the amount of noise and visible muzzle flash generated by firing.” So just like the muffler on your car mitigates the engine noise, suppressors do the same for firearms.

Find Your State

Currently in the US, suppressors are legal to possess in 41 out of 50 states and most of those states permit using suppressors while hunting. In fact, the American Suppressor Association has been pushing hard recently to show legislators that suppressors are an invaluable tool while hunting. Hearing loss/damage should be a major concern for all shooters, but especially hunters as they rely on their sense of hearing to monitor their surroundings. Typical ear protection such as ear plugs or earmuffs dampen ambient noises, which causes hunters to forgo them. Suppressors provide a safe hearing option that maintains full situational awareness, which benefits not just the hunter but also anyone in the nearby area.

Ruger American Rimfire Suppressed

Sensing that suppressors are becoming more common and easier to acquire, the shooting industry has seen significant growth focused on that product area, Major firearm manufacturer’s such as Sig Sauer and Ruger now produce in-house suppressors, and even the manufacturer’s not producing suppressors are supporting them with threaded barrels, suppressor height night sights, subsonic ammo, and other accessories.

Ruger Suppressor on MKIII

SilencerCo, Surefire, and other manufacturers like Liberty Suppressors are producing “cans” for almost every caliber and platform that you can think of. OSS is challenging the status quo with their “flow through suppressor” design that has been described as a “jet engine in reverse”. A major issue with suppressors is “blow back”, where the gas that usually escapes out the muzzle gets forced backwards until it can find an escape point. This can lead to hot gas in the face or clog a firearm up with extra debris. The OSS design circumvents this by not trapping the gas at the end with a sealed cap like traditional suppressors do, which is pretty revolutionary. If you need to see it to believe it, check out their video where they test fire a .50bmg in an enclosed room. Wow.

Jet Engine in Reverse

So while suppressors can be expensive and will impact semi-auto firearm’s function in some way, they provide numerous benefits and really enhance all types of shooting. So if you haven’t used a suppressor yet, don’t pass up the chance when you get the opportunity. Join the ASA and combat the myths with facts. Make a choice. Fight the Noise.

Kel Tec RFB

Matt S. • No Comments on Can You Hear Me Now? Good
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Who Brought a Knife to a Gun Show?

Feb 16 • Reviews, News • 19426

While I can still count the number of guns that I own, I gave up keeping track of the number of knives I own a long time ago. It may come as a surprise to some that SHOT Show is the same way. There are as many, if not more, new knives being announced and displayed than firearms. Everything from the affordable to the limited edition, both folders and fixed blades, gets showcased at SHOT. Here were some of the blades that caught my attention, and likely a piece of my wallet:

Schrade

Schrade model SCHF39 stood out from the crowd for its unique features. Starting with a 5.23” fixed blade knife, Schrade
built a sling shot into the ABS sheath that comes complete with a spring loaded ball bearing ammo magazine, ferro rod, and 120/600 grit sharpening stones. Whether you are looking for a survival kit or to just have a fun afternoon in the woods, Schrade has you covered.

CRKT

The Clever Girl by CRKT had me smiling from the name alone, but once I wrapped my hand around the handle I was grinning ear to ear. Designed in collaboration with Austin McGlaun, this knife is one of the new CRKT “Forged By War” models. McGlaun is known for his versatile and robust designs that stand up to unconventional duties. An Iraq war veteran and seasoned Law Enforcement Officer, McGlaun designs tools for warriors. Thus the Clever Girl, a 4.6” length blade that was created so you can grab it, use it if necessary, and then go home to your family.

CRKT is also doing a line of knives for Ruger that is more than just a “Ruger” label slapped onto a CRKT knife. They have some interesting models that relate to models of Ruger’s firearms through the materials and designs.

Spyderco

Spyderco is coming out with some updated throwbacks like the recently discontinued PITS one handed slipjoint knife, the Snap It Salt knife, and the Lil’ Lum knife. The Introvert was a new design and a pleasant surprise, combining a finger flipper with a back lock mechanism. Resembling the Swick, the Introvert may not win an award for looks but it is very comfortable in the hand.

Benchmade

Benchmade announced several flipper models, which is one of my favorite opening mechanisms. The Amicus uses the AXIS lock and is assisted opening, while the Precinct is a liner lock and the Proxy is a titanium framelock. The Proxy is the largest blade of the three, with a length of 3.8 inches while the Amicus and Precinct are around 3.2 inches in length. They also have a new Gold class knife called the Stryker II that has a damascus blade and a carbon fiber handle.

Benchmade also does the HK line of knives and the Scorch was a neat design with a hidden deployment mechanism that releases the blade when you slide the scale.

Kershaw/Zero Tolerance

KAI (parent company of Kershaw and ZT) had a massive lineup of new models with something for everyone. The ZT0450CF was one of my
favorites due to the finger flipper and carbon fiber, even though I am not the biggest framelock fan. Kershaw has been doing well with expanding their line (Cryo series, Emerson collabs, etc) but they managed to surprise me with their Grinder model. While there isn’t anything radically innovative about the 3.25 inch wharnecliff style blade set into Zytel handles with a Speed Safe finger flip, the MSRP of $30 and a street price of $20 is amazing. At that price, the Grinder is the ultimate “beater” flipper. Buy one for EDC and one to leave in your go bag.

TOPS

While TOPS is known for their endless variety of fixed blade offerings, and continues to expand with models like the Hazen Legion 6.0, they were showing off their Brothers of Bushcraft Folder prototype that is almost in production. Everything you love and trust in the B.O.B. knife, now in a folding version. The Hazen Legion on the other hand is a combat blade designed by Mark Hazen, but is still fully capable of almost any utility task. When Mark saw the demand for his knife take off, he went to TOPS to help with the production and they were more than happy to assist.

ESEE

While ESEE didn’t have any big unveils at SHOT, they are making some substantial changes. On the product side, they are offering uncoated blades in their Camp Lore series after receiving many requests from traditional bushcrafters who prefer the naked blades to the powder coated ones. ESEE is also decreasing their foreign supplier reliance and working on cutting down supply times as their US based manufacturing partners increase their facilities/capacities. This also could free up space for new projects, like maybe the ever elusive Izula folder, but no promises yet.

Boker was showing off their first American made knife, dubbed the USA, amidst the vast array of models that they are consistently increasing. They also slightly updated the Kwaiken model with the Kwaiken Tactical, which is one of my favorite Boker folding knives.

Kizer Cutlery is a relatively newcomer making a big splash and definitely a company to keep an eye on. The Roach really impressed me and is on my To Buy list for 2016. If you haven’t checked them out, make sure you do.

Another new name on the scene generating a lot of buzz is Colonel Blades. The shape reminds me of the Ka-Bar TDI knives. Colonel Blades are designed to be used for everyday tasks but are quickly and intuitively employed in life-threatening, CQB style scenarios. For the finish, Colonel Blades uses either Robar’s NP3 Plus or Roguard which are both excellent finishes that really enhance the durability of the knife.

That is just a small sample of the knives that were at SHOT but I think it illustrates how the Knife industry is catering to end users and pushing the bar on innovation just as hard as anyone else at SHOT. Whatever your preference, keep it sharp and keep it nearby.

Matt S. • No Comments on Who Brought a Knife to a Gun Show?
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