• Armasight Night Vision and More

    New Armasight Night Vision from SHOT Show!

    Jan 17 • News • 7636

    Armasight hit the market with a splash last year, releasing a bonanza of products on the market. In 2012 the company released everything from a simple low-priced Gen 1 unit to a nearly $10,000 Gen 3 Pinnacle Tube set of binoculars designed for military applications. If you thought 2013 would be a quiet year for them…

    Well, you were wrong.

    Armasight is releasing new models in both the Generation 2 and Generation 3 category featuring White Phosphor Technology (WPT.) WPT is less taxing on the eyes at night, and provides greater contrast allowing you to better identify shapes and shades. For Gen 2 units, the technology is called Quick Silver and the Gen 3 will be called Ghost. This will be sold as new variants of existing units, and many will be available very soon.

    But it doesn’t end there. Armasight is launching new digital night vision and thermal imaging lines, with over 35 new models planned for 2013 alone. We’ll see everything from weapon sights to monoculars, clip on units, and more. Be sure to check out the video early next week for more info.

    And finally, we’ll also see new laser sights from Armasight in 2013. The Drakos line is unique in its construction – instead of the laser diode being adjusted when sighting in, the entire housing is. Because the laser diode never moves, the housing itself can be extremely rugged to the point where these lasers should prove near indestructible. We have no doubt someone will challenge that distinction, but for right now it looks like Armasight has made an effort to attack the laser sight market in a unique way that will help differentiate the Drakos from the competition.

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  • 511 tactical

    5.11 Tactical SAR Flashlights, Sabre 2.0 Jackets & More from SHOT Show!

    Jan 17 • News • 7494

    At the 5.11 booth, we saw a lot of improvements that will end up in a variety of products. We learned that 5.11 is moving from a fleece lining to shell lining in many products, for better protection from the elements while still keeping you warm. They are also adding rubberized zippers and zip-off hoods/roll-off hoods.

    We also spent a little time with the 5.11 Tactical Sabre 2.0 Jacket. This product was actually released late last year, but since it wasn’t at SHOT Show 2012 5.11 was eager to show it off to the community. It’s the newer version of the old Sabre jacket – a warm but not bulky concealed carry jacket.

    511 Tactical S+R H6 Headlamp

    Do you want 350 Lumens right before your eyes from a hand free flashlight? Check out the SAR H3 from 5.11 Tactical!

    We also got a chance to look at some bags and flashlights from 5.11 Tactical. These I was really excited about.  5.11 had mentioned that they would be debuting some beautiful new lights and I couldn’t wait.  We’re going to have even more info coming in our video (stay tuned!), but for now let me give you a bit of info on the new SAR Headlamps.  There’s the H3 and H6.  The H3 produces a little over 200 lumens of light and has a battery life around 90 minutes.  The H6, which is teh one I’m REALLY excited about, is similar in looks and durability (they both have tough High Impact Polymer Bodies and Aluminum Heat Sinks to keep them cool), but the H6 produces 350 lumens of light for about 3 hours!  That’s huge, and the heat sink makes it comfortable to wear for longer periods of time.  5.11 is known for how incredibly tough their gear is, and I have no doubt these new flashlights will be just as tough as advertised.  I can’t wait to get one later this year!

    There were more flashlights, as well as some bags, so I’ll add a gallery of some of this amazing new gear from 5.11 Tactical, and make sure you stay tuned because we’ll get that full video to you soon!

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  • SHOT Show Day 2 Mega Post – Gerber, Vanguard, Trijicon, & EOTech!

    Jan 17 • News • 12738

    We saw so many brands on Day 2 of SHOT Show that my head is spinning!  This is the mega post with Gerber, Vanguard, Trijicon and EOTech, but I also have posts for 5.11 Tactical, Armasight and MFT/Fobus coming soon, so keep your eyes peeled!

    Gerber Knives and Tools Cut to the Chase

    Right as the doors opened at 8:30AM we were on our way to the Gerber booth. Gerber has been releasing new products at an extremely fast rate lately, ranging from classic knives and multi-tools to higher end survival gear. The first item we took a look at was the new Gerber Bullrush Multi-Tool, with G-10 lined handles. You can quickly access the knife blade, a Phillips screwdriver, strap cutter and full-head screwdriver right from the outside. If you are in the market for a multi-tool, it’s worth checking out – it’s got the standard tools you can expect in a multi-tool but doesn’t have the bulk and weight many others do. It will retail around $50 and be available in early February.

    We also took a look at the new Gerber Impromptu Tactical Pen. Releasing around the same time (early February) and with a retail price around $55, this Tactical Pen has a nice, smooth feel to it and weighs about an ounce. Tactical Pens have definitely come into vogue in the past year, and it’s easy to understand why. Most people always keep a pen on them or close by, and the hardened tip can be used for both self-defense or breaking glass in emergency situations. The Gerber Impromptu Pen also features a “Rite-in-the-Rain” ballpoint ink cartridge which allows you to… well.. write in the rain!

    Gerber Folding Knives at SHOT Show 2013

    Gerber reveals new knives at an incredible speed!

    We also learned of some new improvements and line extensions for the Gerber Swagger series. In 2013, look for new models sporting an improved locking mechanism, faster “draw” or open, black blade options, and a newly refined, more tactical look.

    Gerber Tech Skin Pocket Knife

    Worried about scratching your phone’s screen because your pocket knife has sharp edges? Check out the Gerber Tech Skin Pocket Knife. It won’t hurt your phone one bit!

    After that, we got a little hands-on time with the Gerber Tech Skin Pocket Knife. This no-frills knife is special in that it is over-molded. When folded up, there are NO sharp edges, nor is there any exposed metal. That means you could throw it in your pocket without any fear of nicking or harming anything – no sheath or clip required. The handle is made of rubber, specifically to prevent it from scratching the screens of electronic devices you may keep in your pocket or bag, like your phone, tablet, or e-Reader. Very nice! The Tech Skin should be available in February or early March.

    Vanguard Endeavor HD Spotting Scopes and Spirit Binoculars Look Sweet!

    Vanguard Endeavor HD Spotting Scope

    If you thought the Endeavor ED Spotting Scopes were awesome, wait until you take a look at the Endeavor HD!

    The big news at the Vanguard booth was the new Endeavor HD Spotting Scopes. Featuring ED glass and available at the end of January, the Vanguard Endeavor HD will come in a 15-45x65mm version (angled or straight) and also a 20-60x82mm version (angled only.) Vanguard’s goal was not only to improve on the optical quality offered, but also to offer a more well-rounded spotting scope. The Endeavor HD Spotting Scope features impressive eye-relief even at the highest magnification power and should be a hit with the not just the target shooting community, but also with the digiscopers of the world.

    Last year Vanguard released the Spirit XF Binoculars, a slightly lower-priced version of their Spirit ED binoculars. This year Vanguard is releasing the Endeavor XF Spotting Scope line – coming in a 20-60x80mm model (both straight and angled) and a 15-45x60mm model. Expected to arrive in May at a great price, we’ll learn more about them as we get closer to the release date.

    Trijicon Always Impresses – Especially When Have a NEW ACOG!

    Trijicon ACOG and RMR

    For the fastest target acquisition at close and medium range, mount a Trijicon RMR on a Trijicon ACOG!

    We also briefly stopped by the Trijicon booth. This year we learned that they will be releasing new models of both the ACOG (one of the most popular gun sights in the past few years) and the RMR (micro red-dot) featuring Nickel Boron plating. Not every model ACOG or RMR will receive models with the new Nickel Boron plating, but those that do will have feature a nice, polished finish and a more resistant surface to abrasions and harsh conditions.

    In addition, Trijicon is releasing a new 3x30mm ACOG model with the 300 AAC Blackout Reticle. Designed for a 16″ barrel and bullet drop compensator for both supersonic and subsonic ammunition. If you know ACOGs, you know this product, and for those out there looking for the newest model this is the one to get in 2013. No mention if this model will also have a Nickel Boron version, but if we find out we’ll be sure to let you know!

    Are you afraid of Zombies?  EOTech’s got your Back!

    EOTech Z2

    For the next generation of Zombie Stopping sights, check out the EOTech Z2!

    EOTech is one of our favorite brands.  We’ve worked with them on some of our best OPMOD Products, and their holographic weapon sights never fail to impress us.  Last year they made a huge splash with their new Zombie Stopper Holosight, which they’ve updated this year to the Z2.  It’s got a nice bit of zombie blood on there (it might be green paint, but it’s for taking down zombies so it at least LOOKS like paint), and the cool biohazard reticle like the original!

    We’re so excited about EOTech that we’re giving away their XPS-3 Transverse Red Dot Holosight!  This is one of the world’s most popular and effective red dots, valued at over $600, and we’re giving one away starting NOW!  Just head over to our Facebook page and click the SHOT Show 2013 Tab at the top of the page (or click here), and enter your email for your chance to win! Our giveaways for NightForce and Streamlight are still ongoing, so feel free to enter those as well, and check back tomorrow and Saturday for giveaways from Crimson Trace and Nikon!  Enter by Febuary 8th, 2013 so you don’t miss out!

    Whew!  SHOT Show Day 2 was quite a day!

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  • SHOT Show Media Day Recap! Colt, Ruger, Springfield Armory, Winchester & More!

    Jan 16 • News, Videos • 4342

    We just put together our footage from SHOT Show 2013 Media Day at the Boulder Rifle and Pistol Club and wanted to share with you some of the fun we had. We put together a full writeup yesterday but we know sometimes you just need to see and hear it in action to appreciate these exciting new items!

    You can also check out our Day 1 recap video, and expect our Day 2 recap sometime tomorrow. We’ve got a lot more great gear to check out, so be sure to come back every day.

    Don’t forget you can enter for a chance to win some of the hottest products featured at SHOT Show on our Facebook page from your desktop or laptop computer!

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  • New Zeiss Conquest HD5 & Terra from SHOT Show 2013!

    Jan 16 • News • 8774

    We stopped by the Zeiss booth late yesterday to see what the legendary German manufacturer had in store for 2013 and we have to say – we are extremely excited by what we saw!

    Zeiss HD5 Rifle Scopes

    Zeiss is known for having the world’s best glass. I bet you’d like to test their new HD5 Conquest Scopes to see for yourself!

    First off we got a chance to check out the new Zeiss Conquest HD5 Rifle Scope series. Three models are available now:

    2-10×42
    3-15×42
    5-25×50

    These rifle scopes boast new lens coatings for even better light transmission and an additional coating functioning as a strong water repellent. Carl Zeiss lenses have always been in the best the best category, and with the new Conquest HD5 boasting HD glass it will likely be a huge hit with hunters and the target shooting community.

    Afterwards we spent some time with the brand new Zeiss Terra line, which they are targeting at the high end of the entry-level market. I never expected Zeiss would create a line targeting those on a more limited budget, but now that they are it looks like the entry-level category just got a lot more competitive.

    Zeiss Terra Rifle Scopes

    For those looking to spend a little less while still enjoying the benefits of a Zeiss Scope, check out the Terra Rifle Scope Line!

    First up was the Terra Rifle Scope line. Three models will be offered:

    2-7×32
    3-9×42
    4-12×42

    Starting at around $350, these rifle scopes don’t boast many of the features that the Conquest line does (and certainly not the Victory line) but you’ll still get Zeiss glass and the attention to details and durability you’d expect from Zeiss.

    Zeiss Terra Binoculars

    When you’re glassing the field with these Zeiss Binoculars, you’re sure to get a great view!

    We also checked out the Terra Binoculars. These binoculars will debut in two varieties (the classic hunting configurations – 8×42 and 10×42) and boast ED glass and locking eyecups. In addition, these binoculars have a close focus of only 5 feet, making them usable for almost any application.

    Zeiss enjoys an awesome position in the optics industry.  Everyone knows that their glass is absolutely fantastic, and they’re able to leverage their prestigious position by making some of the best optics in the world.  I’m amazed they’re starting to offer more budget-friendly options.  I know Zeiss will never let their quality slip, so this is a huge deal.  I can’t wait to check out the new binoculars!

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