Brand new. Needs Dirt.

Made in the Motherfucking USA. There’s no other company that’s synonymous with a prideful, patriotic slogan. Little else can be said about Original Special Operations Equipment if you’re well aware of their products. Otherwise, if you’re a stranger to OSOE, they’re a no-nonsense, manufacturer, innovator of Cordura equipment for military, law enforcement, and civilian marksman, built tough, yet affordable for the common American.

With no other chest rig to claim as my own, John Willis, proprietor of ORIGINAL Special Operations Equipment, provided me an M4/AK Micro Rig. I’m more accustomed to a bug out bag setup; however, training with it was more cumbersome and my progress with it didn’t go as well as I expected. For example, the Sneaky Bag was an honest effort to maintain a low profile, while keeping all business related gear with me. However, the bag cover was cumbersome. I also found myself stuffing more crap than I really need. Unless I’m rocking a Kifaru OTW bag, I don’t think a bag setup will work for me. I digress.

Back to a minimalist (KISS) mindset, the Micro Rig M4/AK rig makes sense. There are two pouches, each capable of holding two M4 or AK magazines. The AK magazines will fit upright, upside down, and left or right faced. A 6×6” utility pocket is available for additional necessary gear. An internal pocket lined with 12” of Velcro loop across is integrated to attach optional organizers. Elastic loops are sewn on the bottom to hold pocket smokes, communications wires, tourniquets, etc.

Saiga 7.62x39 CA/922(r) compliant.

PALS webbing across the sides of the magazine pouches and utility pouch increases versatility further – think multi-tool, magazines, flashlight, chem. lights, etc.

The 1.5” standard shoulder straps are adjustable and can be worn as a chest rig or shoulder bag. A 1” waist strap provides stability. The rig will adjust as small for a 40” chest size and 37” torso and large enough for the “larger than me” folk. I imagine there’s enough room for even the largest of individuals, at least those who can still jounce a few yards.

Panel pouch with Velcro loop.

As such, the rig will fit nicely over level IIIA armor, or heavy clothing without issues.

For a shoulder bag set up, I recommend connecting the strap to the 1.5” side release buckles at the side points.

I’ve used this rig primarily with the Saiga 7.62×39 CA compliant rifle. In the utility pouch: gauze, hemostatic agent, and medical tape. Attached to the right side PALS is an SOF tourniquet secured with a broccoli rubber band. The panel pouch can be used for shears, pistol magazine pouches, notes, or whatever useful comes to mind.

6x6" utility pouch.

Magazines are secured with a height adjustable Cordura flap with a 1” tab for easy release. Do not forget to adjust the flaps appropriate to your magazines.

The chest rig can sit high, or low, depending on your preference. I prefer it set just a couple inches higher side as opposed on the belly as I’ve observed others have demonstrated.

Base on my experience, it’s a simple rig that’s straight to the point. Even better is that I don’t find myself wanting to occupy every single PALS real estate. Perfect for short drills on the range, or the supplemental trunk kit. I will not even question quality, so as long John Willis owns, and manages his shop. I can’t recommend OSOE enough.

The micro rig is actually a series. Be sure to also check out the 12ga, .308, PALS, subgun, and more! For those who are interested in padded shoulder straps, OSOE offers those, too. Should a hydration unit pique your interest, you must have the Slim Padded H-Harness.

Bonus: I enjoy reading John’s OSOE Facebook posts. You might too. Like the OSOE Facebook page, which is also a great way to keep up-to-date on any new gear he’s working on, or a chance to purchase any extra sets of Cordura gear available.

Rig in the video is a Special Operations Equipment Micro M4/AK Rig.

SHOT Show 2012 – Day 1 Synopsis

SHOT Show 2012 – Day 2 Synopsis

SHOT Show 2013 – Day 3 Synopsis

SHOT Show 2012 went well; however, I felt I was following up on product meant to be released in 2011, now released as new products 2.0(12).  The .22LR theme can be argued as the trend this year, but I think that’s been the case since 2009.  Arguably because the pocket 9mm last year, and the modern sporting rifle accessories the year prior were more overwhelming.  The zombie craze isn’t as big as some may have reported.  I saw a few here and there – maybe I’m desensitized and just turned off the zombie-dar since Hornady released ZombieMax ammunition.  With that said, the .300 AAC Blackout, hands down, was the buzz this year.  Michael Bane also makes an argument for the suppressor as a 2012 trend.

Outside the Coonan .357 magnum, and the Ruger SR22, not much else piqued my consumer interest.   DKX Armor and Cabot Guns do deserve a worthy mention.

What I do enjoy immensely is meeting people, and I did more of that this year.  As I continue to maintain The Packing Rat what it is today, the more I realize what a wonderful media tool I have to distribute my thoughts on firearms and California specific issues, food, shooting and hiking accessories, and occasional outdoor adventures with lots of photos.  It has become my vehicle to meet and greet with wonderful folks in the firearms industry, civil rights community, outdoor enthusiasts, and many great individuals such as yourself.

Last day of SHOT Show was rather slow for me.  I stopped by a few booths, but wrapped up Friday with a walk along the strip.

Magpul SGA Stock/MOE Forend

First look at the SGA Stock and MOE Forend is promising.  I’m not much of a Magpul aficionado now, but I anticipate that I will become one when this coming spring.  I appreciate the extended length on the MOE Forend.  The ergonomics on the stock is absolutely an improvement OEM.

The SGA Stock is a user-configurable buttstock designed to add much-needed adjustability to the tried and true Remington 870 platform. Featuring a spacer system for length of pull adjustment, improved grip ergonomics, recoil-reducing butt-pad, optional cheek risers for use with optics/raised sights, and other accessories, the SGA 870 brings Magpul design and engineering to another classic American firearm.

The MOE Forend is a drop-in replacement for the standard Remington 870 12 gauge pump, featuring extended length and front/rear hand stops for improved weapon manipulation. Compatible with MOE rails, mounts, and accessories, the MOE Forend adds modularity to the proven Remington 870 platform for sporting use, home defense, or on duty.

EagleTac

Had the pleasure to meet the folks from EagleTac.  Not familiar with their products, but they sure are bright and inexpensive.  I appreciate that their design includes a more robust clip and a stiffer, recessed clicker; two of my primary issues with the 4Sevens Preon2.

From right: D25C Mini, D25C, D25, D25A

Mojo Tactical

Morgan @ Maxpedition

No one likely remembers from last year, but I asked folks if they knew who made the patch photographed above.  It’s a parody of the Cookie Monster.  It reads, “”B” is for Brains.  Not enough for me.”  Asking Morgan, the woman photographed above, last year didn’t get me anywhere, so I was SOL.  Out of dumb luck, luck nonetheless, I ran into the creator of the patch, Dave, proprietor of Mojo Tactical.  Mojo Tactical is a “tactical outfitter” based in Honolulu, HI.  I can tell you now that you may purchase the patch at the Facebook storefront, here.  For the ladies, you can find the “Tacticute” patch from him, too.  You’re welcome.

I don't have a photo of me sporting the patch, but I have this photo instead.

Student of the Gun presents several arguments against carrying a firearm with an empty chamber.

Folks like the logo, so now I’m on task so they may start wearing it.  Mostly due to my delay, these were supposed to be available for SHOT Show.  They are PVC 1×1″ patches backed with hook (Velcro).  Instead, I have several itching to be attached to anything.  Any of you folks want one?  $4.00 each. Includes 1st class USPS delivery within the US.  International shipping varies, but it doesn’t appear cost prohibitive.  I would be so humbled to have this little trinket displayed on your daily gear.  Pictures of them on your gear would be cool, too.

Payments can be made via paypal, derek@thepackingrat.net.

Personal check/USPS MO are accepted, too.  Please email me first for details, however.

SHOT Show 2012 – Day 1 Synopsis

SHOT Show 2012 – Day 2 Synopsis

SHOT SHOW 2012 – Day 4

Leatherman – OneHandTool and Style PS

The Leatherman OHT (One Hand Tool) is a new release this year. MSRP $80-ish released around the 3rd quarter. MOLLE sheath will be included, and available in tan or black.  You can either do the lazy open method as I had demonstrated, or you can flick it open.  It has two blades, saw, screwdrivers, can opener, strap cutter, pliers and wire cutters w/replaceable blades.

The Style PS caught my eye, however.  TSA compliant, it has spring action needle-nose pliers, regular pliers, and wire cutters, scissors, flat/Phillips, nail file, tweezers, and a carabiner/bottle opener.  Though it complies with the approved list of tools as of March 2009, TSA agents will be TSA agents.

Brownells’ Halographic T-Dot EOTech Sight

The new Brownells CQB T-Dot features a custom reticle designed by Brownells. The T-Dot Reticle features the standard EOTech 65 MOA Circle, but with an exposed gap around the lower “T”. This gap allows for an unobstructed view of Close Quarter targets, ensuring accurate shot placement at extremely close distances. The new reticle also includes the standard EOTech 1 MOA aiming points, providing accurate aiming points for long distance targets.

For most folks, sights super-imposed on the target might be enough and are scratching their heads why they might benefit from a T-Dot.  The T-Dot only adds one additional dot below the primary 1 MOA dot, and creates the “T” by omitting small segments of the 65 MOA circle at 6 o’clock.  The modification is simple enough, but I wouldn’t be surprised if it makes acquisition of the reticle easier as opposed to the original 65 MOA reticle found on the EXPS2.

ZEV Technologies – New GLOCK Parts Revealed

Advantage Arms and Tactical Solution are two of the most common, yet not common, conversion kits “available” for the GLOCK.  Enter in ZEV Technologies with their conversion kit:  a billet aluminum upper offering target and match grade barrels.  Release of their .22 conversion kit in April will fit the small framed GLOCKs:  17, 22, 34, 35, etc.  Anticipated MSRP is between $320-$350, available direct through ZEV Technologies, Brownells, Midway USA, etc.  Based on my experience with ZEV Technologies, you will not be be disappointed with this kit.  These folks are seasoned competitors, with extensive knowledge on the GLOCK platform, as well as machining excellent parts.  Speaking of excellent parts, they’re machining GLOCK slides with red dot adapter plates, allowing a shooter to alternate between iron and red dot sights.  Also in the works is a slide machined to accommodate a red dot and iron sights to co-witness.  The Speed Feed Magwell is another nifty addition to their parts.

Kahr/Magnum Research

I would say this SHOT Show 2012 is the year of the .22LR; however, I think that has been in the works for the past two years.  It just so happens that there wasn’t anything out-shadowing the .22LR this year.  In any case, Magnum Research introduces their out-of-the-box Ruger 10/22 set up.  The take away with this model is a light weight rifle with impressive accuracy.

The MLR22AT will give .22 LR rifle shooters something to get excited about. The new ambidextrous lightweight thumbhole 10/22 stock is made of polypropylene with fiber additives for maximum strength. The stock comb height is designed high enough to comfortably and properly shoot with optics. The new stock design also features a semi palm swell on both sides of the pistol grip, and a molded-to-fit hard rubber butt plate attached with screws.

This rifle will be equipped with the Magnum Lite™ revolutionary patented graphite bull barrel, exclusive to Magnum Research. The patented uni-directional graphite fibers, parallel to the bore axis, results in a barrel with six-times the stiffness of conventional steel. The lighter barrel weights (from 13-16 oz, depending on barrel length) are easier to wield and dissipate heat up to 43% faster than steel. The result is rim fire performance of extreme accuracy.

Other features include a .22LR Benz target chamber designed specifically for semi-automatics; full floating barrel for maximum accuracy, CNC-machined receiver from 6061-T6 aircraft aluminum forging with an integral weaver-type rail for optics and a black anodized finish. The MLR22AT has an approximate weight of 4 ¼ lbs, barrel length of 17 inches, and over all length of 35 ½ inches.

This rifle utilizes the 10/22 trigger group and 10/22 rotary magazines. MRI bolts are manufactured and machined from heat treated and thorough hardened 4140 steel with minimum headspace for better accuracy.

MSRP for the MLR22AT will be $562. The rifles will start shipping in spring 2012.

No one is getting sued by the way.  It was reported that this was a collaborative effort with Ruger.

Vltor

I went to their booth to take photos.

Army Camouflage Improvement Effort

I don’t wear camouflage, so this was a learning experience for me.  A brother-in-arms requested a look-see of Kyptek‘s camouflage.  Based on the preliminary information he provided me, the US Army is in the process of shopping for a new camouflage family.  Kyptek happened to be announced as one of four competitors selected as finalists for the US Army’s consideration a week before SHOT.  Soldier Systems was a valuable resource to better understand this process.  Improvement Effort for Dummies and background information on the Army’s solicitation goals were specifically valuable.  Speaking with Guy Cramer, transitional patterns will likely be issued as the “default” pattern, whereas, the woodland and arid patterns may be distributed on an as needed basis, depending on the nature of the global destination.  It doesn’t appear likely at this time a service member would be required to purchase three patterns at once.  A fourth pattern is meant for personal equipment (pouches, bags, etc), which will be required to work effectively with the other three patterns.

Kryptek is the only company at this time with photos/samples of their patterns available to the public.  ADS Inc./Guy Cramer, Brookwood Companies, and Crye Precision did not.  ADS Inc./Guy Cramer did have a 4-color sample very similar to their “alpha” Army submission, which is photoed in the header link above.  White cards are included for reference.

My version of TMZ gossip.  After reading Paul Barrett’s GLOCK:  The Rise of America’s Gun, the thread at m4carbine.net piqued my interest.

My initial thoughts and question pertains to legal capacity, but who’s to say you can’t do wtfever you want if you’re as financially succussful as Glock?

I know a few of you folks sent me photos of the rat’s new home.  For the folks who haven’t and follow the blog, where are they now? I know one was annihilated by an idle dog inside a car, and didn’t even bother taking photos of the mess. Anyway, if you have one, email them to me at derek@thepackingrat.net. Even better, blog about them and link it back to this post.

SHOT Show 2012 – Day 1 Synopsis

SHOT Show 2013 – Day 3 Synopsis

SHOT SHOW 2012 – Day 4

For more photos, click on the the header links.  If you made it here from an outside link and are new, please consider subscribing to the RSS feed.

Wild West Guns – Alaskan Co-Pilot

Wild West Guns, with locations in Las Vegas, NV or Anchorage, AK, is a custom shop focused on the beloved lever action rifle.  At SHOT Show 2012, Wild West Guns’ primary display was the Alaskan CoPilot.  Chambered in Big Bore calibers, like the .457 magnum, the Take-Down Co-Pilot (starting at $1,400) includes custom barrel porting, big loop lever, ejector, magazine follower, tuned action and trigger, as well as their Ghost Ring Sights.  You may even shoot 45/70 or a 410 shotshell if necessary.  Alternatively, the CoPilot is also chambered in .50 Alaskan.  They have other sweet deals, which may be available soon on their website, www.wildwestguns.com.

DKX Manufacturing – Level III Armor

What’s this sponge floating on the water?  Oh wait!  It’s a multi-hit rated armor plate!  DKX Max III Polyethelene (Dyneema) hard armor plates have the ability to stop a 7.62x39mm round – nine times at 12 feet!  Weighing only 3.25 lbs., it maintains its’ own buoyancy (it’s not a floatation device – I already asked), and drop resistant.  The DKX Max III is in the process for NIJ approval; they’re expecting availability sometime in April.  No word concerning civilian purchase at this time.  Pretty amazing if you ask me.  Let’s hope for favorable NIJ findings this upcoming April.

Carson Optical – Lens and Screen Cleaners

Carson Optical is primarily in the magnifier and binocular business, but arrived at SHOT Show 2012 with a lens cleaning product that doesn’t require harmful chemicals to the lens’ coating, or smearing oils all over.  Available in disposable or non-disposable models, the primary agent is the nano-particles that bonds with oils left on the lens.  The disposable cleaners will last depending on how much oil/grime you may pick up.  I imagine shooters who frequently use optics will get a lot of use of the non-disposable cleaners instead since it comes with a retractable brush.

Gerstner USA – Heirloom Boxes and Tool Chests

Gorgeous tool boxes and chests made to be passed on for generations.  Check out their website.

SOG Knives and Tools

SOG Specialty Knives and Tools had a lot of new releases this year.  Starting with the BladeLight fixed blade (single AA) and folders (twin AAA), they provide 25 , or 35 Lumens of light, respectively, so you won’t cast a shadow with your flashlight as you field dress, or any other field work that requires light to the immediate area you’re working on.  Blade is 9Cr18MoV Stainless Steel.  The fixed version is expected to be released within the 2nd quarter at $115.00 MSRP, whereas the folder within the 3rd quarter at $85.00 MSRP.

The SOG SlipZilla has the same general shape as the SOGzilla, only with G10 grips and slip joint construction.  Better grip and no lock.  Due for release in a few weeks from today at $45.00 MSRP.

SOG Escape is a new folding knife providing a 3.4″ blade made out of 9Cr18MoV Stainless Steel, with integrated line cutter, glass breaker, wire stripper and extra line cutters stored in the aluminum handle with a polycarbonate cover.

The SOG PowerDuo is a multi-tool with pliers, a locking blade, tweezers, bottle/can opener, screw drivers, etc.  Can be opened with one hand and reportedly has two times the gripping strength compared to other multi-tools.  Satin and black variations will be released sometime during the 2nd quarter at $80.00 and $90.00 MSRP, respectively.  I wasn’t necessarily wow’d by this release as I was with the Leatherman OHT.  However, I was really digging the SlimJim SOG had.

The SlimJim is an assisted knife available from SOG in the XL model (4.18″ blade) or a 3.18″ blade.  Advertised as the “slimmest assisted knife in the world,” the XL model only weighs 2.7 oz.  MSRP is expected to be anywhere from $65.00 through $80.00 and available sometime during the 2nd quarter.

DarkEnergy is SOG’s line of flashlights.  Max output is advertised at 215 Lumens powered by a CR-123A.  Half-taps enables the 40% output.  Housing is aggressively checkered with a very sturdy clip.  Available in a few weeks, anticipated MSRP is $105.00 for the smaller model (214A) and $130 for the 247A model.

Precision Small Arms

The .25 caliber, 6 shot, single action, semi-automatic legend (Baby-Browning) is back.  PSA models are available from hot blue ($550.00 MSRP) to gold plated/accented ($5000 MSRP).  A shop somewhere in Orange County, CA reportedly does single-shot exemptions for these pistols, lengthening the barrel, and fixing the magazine.  That’s just hearsay; I have not found definitive examples of it being done yet.  That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t try (wink).

GLOCK

As opposed to what I wrote on Monday night last week, it is anticipated, with high hopes, that a back strap, or lengthened tang will be available in three weeks.

Thompson Center – Dimension

My interest with this particular bolt rifle waned and didn’t catch a lot on it.  It carries on the T/C interchangeable caliber theme with their Encore and Contender variations.  Check out The Truth About Guns for a more thorough look on the T/C Dimension.

Calguns Foundation/CAL-FFL Dinner

After a long day at SHOT Show, I broke bread with the fine folks from the Calguns Foundation at Lawry’s The Prime Rib.  Met Brandon Combs, Bill Wiese, Ryan Kirkman, Wes Morris, Jason Davis and was reacquainted with Alan Gottlieb.  California Association of Federal Firearm Licensees (CAL-FFL) is a new organization established to address issues pertinent to California FFLs.  It is “California’s premiere non-profit industry association of, by, and for firearms manufacturers, dealers, and collectors, advancing the interests of its members and the general public through strategic litigation, legislative efforts, and education.”  Provided the insurmountable work the Calguns Foundation has done, I have no doubt they will provide the same level of service they have provided to many California gun owners.