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.
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
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.
Magpul stock and forend became the most popular upgrades for the 870 after the release. So Magpul did it again and made great product. I remember how people called stock ugly at first 🙂