RS Regulate BM-12 Light Mount For VEPR 12 & Saiga 12s

The BM-12 mount was designed to be a simple way to add a light (or other accessory) to your Saiga 12 or VEPR 12 shotgun.  Well, it does just that.   Here's what I think of it overall….


Pros:
-Simple design.  KISS principle is hard at work here.
-Lightweight----weighs in at 1.05oz
-Anodized 6061-T6 aluminum.
-1913 spec rail with 4 slots so it'll accept a wide variety of lights/accessories.


Cons:
-MSRP is $60.  Some folks think it is high but compared to other mounts out there I think it's pretty reasonable.

Here a video with some shooting, how the mount works, and what I think of it overall:

Remington HD 410 Buckshot From A Derringer

I always wondered what 410 buckshot would do out of some of the current 'self defense' pistols on the market these days so I figured I'd make that happen.  I used the 2.5'' Remington HD 000 buckshot load, the Clear Ballistics "FBI Spec" gel,  and a Bond Arms Texas Defender (3'' barrel) for the test.  Here's what I found:

-2.5'' pattern at 7 feet
-Penetration was 8.5'' to 12''

Here's the video of the test and what I think of the results:

Mossberg 590 / 500 Shotgun Furniture

Lots of folks have been waiting since SHOT last year for Magpul to release their Mossberg shotgun furniture and it's finally started shipping out.    I snagged a set and here's what I've found so far:

Stock Pros:
-Very ergonomic.
-Good texturing on the grip.
-LOP is user adjustable between about 12.5'' and 14.5'' (my measurements, it may be slightly different officially).
-There are different height combs available for use with optics
-You can put QD sling attachment points on either side of the stock.
-The grip angle puts your thumb in a great position to work the safety.

Stock Cons:
-The trigger group doesn't drop out for disassembly as it should with it installed.   Easy fix but it's worth pointing out.
-Some folks think it looks ugly but it's grown on me over the past year since I've had it on my 870s.

Forend Pros:
-Handstops in the front and back of forend provide a good grip to run the action hard.
-3 slots on the left, bottom, and right provide a lot of options for mounting accessories on the forend as the user requires.

Forend Cons:
-Not so much a con but with all the Mossberg 500 models floating around out there it may not fit your shotgun (see the video for examples).  Most will work however.

All in all, for around $140 MSRP the addition of the stock and forend are an excellent upgrade to your fighting shotgun in my opinion.   I'd certainly buy them again.    Here's a video with some shooting, a discussion of the pros/cons/features of the products, and what I think of them overall:

Mossberg 590A1 12ga Shotgun Review

Mossberg or Remington?   Um…..   both?     I'll be focusing on the 590A1 in this review however.   I've had several over the years including the 18.5'' model which is probably my favorite due to the balance of it and the availability of 1 & 2 shot extensions.    Here's what I've found over the years with my 590A1s though.


Pros:
-Extremely reliable.   So long as the shooter does his/her part and doesn't short stroke the gun there's an very high probability that the gun will go bang when you want it to.  No gun is infallible but this one's about as close as it gets.
-Tons of different factory options out there.   Different stocks, sights, finishes, ect…. can be had from the factory.
-Dual extractors.
-The 590s give you the ability to add mag tube extensions.
-The safety location is equally ergonomic for lefties and righties.
-Parkerized finish.
-Heavier barrel vs. the 500s.
-The shell lifter stays up when loading it.
-Metal trigger guard.


Cons:
-Relatively expensive compared to other pump guns.
-Some folks will consider the aluminum receiver to be a con for the gun (I don't think it matters either way as the lockup is still steel on steel).

All in all the 590A1 is as good as any pump shotgun out there and better than many.   It's seen military/LEO/competition use for many years and continues to prove itself time and time again.   Here's a video with some shooting and a discussion of the pros/cons/features of the shotgun:

Sig Sauer P226 Review

The Sig P226 has been around since the XM9 service pistol trials in the mid-80s.   Its' basic design comes from the P220 but it has a double stack magazine and is chambered in 9mm (40S&W and 357SIG variants are out now obviously).  

Here's my summary of the pros and the cons of the gun:

Pros:
-Ultra reliable.  I've had several P226s over the years and none has had reliability issues at all.
-Nitron finish.   Very durable metal surface hardening treatment that does a great job at preventing corrosion as well.
-Aftermarket accessories are readily available.
-Very accurate gun.
-You can choose which trigger system you'd like (DA/SA/SAO/DAK/ect…).  DA/SA is the most common and the one I prefer.
-Available in tons of different configurations to suit the users needs.
-No external safeties.
-Compliant in most ban states.
-Very attractive looking gun.
-Magazines are widely available from 15-20 round factory options.


Cons:
-Expensive.  While surplus P226s are still out there at reasonable costs, new models are priced higher than many other competitors out there.
-Relatively heavy.   Aluminum frame models come in at 34oz.
-High bore axis.  Not an issue in 9mm but with some more powerful rounds it may slow down follow up shots for less skilled shooters.


All in all, the P226 remains a classic gun that you can buy and be very certain you won't go wrong along with the CZ75, G17, 92FS, ect….   Here's my video with some shooting, a breakdown of the pistol, a discussion of the operation and features of the gun, and my overall thoughts on it:

Elzetta High Output Bravo Flashlight

Earlier this year Elzetta mentioned on the forums that they were going to come out with a high output light to compete with the slew of high end light makers that have come out with 500 lumen and up lights this year.   Well, it's a reality now with their 650 lumen Bravo model and 900 lumen Charley model.   Here's what I've found so far with my Bravo model…

Pros:
-The light just screams quality.  All the components are top notch as is the fit/finish.   All operations are smooth and have positive actuations when used.
-650 lumen output in the 2 cell, 900 lumens in the 3 cell model.  The AVS head automatically senses the power source and the output generated corresponds to the power (i.e. 650 or 900 lumens)
-Uses an acrylic lens vs reflectors for softer edges on the beam pattern (see video for a demonstration).  The lens is field replaceable without tools and apparently different lenses are in the works (like a larger flood version).
-Cree XM-L2 LED
-Elzetta designs their lights to be interchangeable.  So, you can pick the tailcap, to include tapeswitch models) you want.   There are several models to choose from though.   They also have 2 bezels (crenellated and standard) and two bodies to choose from.     If you have the old ZFL-M60s you can just purchase the high output head and get the same performance.  
-Fully potted electronics so shock/impact will not have any influence on output or reliability of the light.  These lights have a reputation as the toughest lights in the world and I believe it.
-Lights come lubricated/greased where they should be and have o-rings on the head/tail for use in wet environments.
-100% made in the USA.
-Springs are used on the head/tail for shock resistance so you won't have the light flickering under recoil should you mount it on a gun.
-The beam has a bright hotspot.  Spill is generous with good flooding as well for peripheral vision (again see video for example).


Cons:
-Really the only one I can think of is Elzetta states not to use 18650 batteries with it and some folks will be very put off by that.
-Price is roughly $190-235 depending on the options you chose.   But, as I stated above the quality is top notch.

Here's a video with some shooting, beam comparisons with other lights, a demonstration of the properties of the light, and my overall thoughts on it:




https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HG3oCwKibQY

Tapco Intrafuse AK Mags

Lots of folks like to piss on TAPCO (even me from time to time) but I'm a fan of their G2 AK trigger and their mags have always functioned fine in my rifles but seemed to have one problem---they'd break.    Each time it was the locking lug but unfortunately I didn't do reviews back in those days and have no footage of it.   So, I decided to try to test these mags on film and here's what I found:

Pros:
-Reliable.  As stated above, I never had function issues with TAPCO AK mags.
-Cheap.  If you follow the deals these mags can sometimes be had for $6-9/ea
-They count as 3x 922r parts and are made in the USA
-TAPCO has always stood behind their no questions asked warranty in my experience.
-The texture of the mags provides a good gripping surface when removing from a pouch/pocket.


Cons:
-No metal lining or reinforcements.

Here's  a video with some shooting, multiple drop tests of both the '47 and '74 variants, an overview of the mags, a dirt test, and a short diatribe of what I think of them overall:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qfMgrofafdc

Magpul MOE 1911 Grips

Many 1911 fans have been requesting that Magpul produce a set of grips for a while now.   Apparently after Magpul's trainers joined the chorus of folks requesting the grips they got busy and the MOE grip panels are the result.   Here's what I've found with them:

Pros:
-Ergonomic.  The relief cut does aid in activating the mag release without having to shift your grip
-They have a 'medium' texture.  Not so aggressive that it will fray clothing but they will provide a good gripping surface with wet, sweaty, or bloody hands
-They fit well with magwells but also look good with guns without a magwell
-Compatible with ambi-safeties
-Thin.  Only .25'' wide at max.  This could be a pro or con I suppose but it is an important note
-Cost.  The MSRP is only $20

Cons:
-Only available for full size frames currently

I do like these grips overall and they'll be staying on one of my 1911s.   Here's a video with some shooting (TRP and Range Officer used in the video), a close up and comparison of the grips and their features, followed by what I think of them overall:

BCM Mod 3 Gunfighter Grip

The move toward more vertical AR grips probably isn't going anywhere due to the way many firearms schools/instructors are teaching a more squared up stance for firing while standing/kneeling.    The more vertical grips offer a different (some say less stressed and I would agree) wrist angle when firing from those positions.  Here's what I've found with the Mod 3 Gunfighter grip from BCM.

Pros:
-Good grip texturing on the sides of the grip combined with the lines on the front provide a good positive grip
-Price.  The Mod 3 retails for $18
-It has a rubber storage hinged cover for storing gear inside it
-Comes with a tab in front for covering up the area where a traditional AR trigger guards have a tendency to rub on your finger.   It also works with a wide variety of billet lowers and the Magpul trigger guard
-I like the beavertail for being able to get my hand up high on the grip
-It's 1/4'' wider in from side to side than Mod 1/2 grips so it fills your hand better which I prefer as I have relatively large hands

Cons:
-The tab on the trigger guard seemed like it was 'pushing' back against the grip when I was installing it. It probably wouldn't be an issue at all as others have said it wasn't with their set-ups.   But, I relieved it a little on my rifle to make it fit without pressure
-With all of these more vertical grips the rifle will point lower with the same grip angle of your shooting hand (shown in the video).   It's not really a 'con' per se but it's something I noticed when I first started shooting with the grip on the rifle


All in all for $18 it's certainly something folks should consider if they're looking for a new more vertical angled grip on their AR pattern rifles.

Here's a video demonstrating the different angles and how it stacks up compared to the Magpul MOE grip with is probably the most common replacement grip for the standard A2 grip out there:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fJOsvZTgTOE

Serbian M70 O-PAP AK-47 Variant

The M70 O-PAP is flying off the shelves these days due to the known quality of Zastava rifles, the cost, and because Century seems to be importing them by the boatload.    Here's what I've found with mine:

Pros:
-100% reliable
-Fit and finish are excellent for the price point it comes to market at
-Cost.  It's around $600 most places and some have it even lower
-Cold hammer forged barrel
-Everything (safety, top cover, gas tube, ect...) is tight.
-Accepts all standard size com-bloc mags with no more wobble than is normally found on '47 variants
-Imported with correct double stack bolt
-Utilizes the bulged, RPK style, front trunnion
-Comes with 2 steel surplus mags
-I was able to get consistent 3-3.5'' groups with it with a variety of commie steel jacketed ammo
-The grip isn't the best but it's certainly better than the standard 'peg' grip; at least to me
-The prevalence of these Yugo/Serbian rifles in this country has led a lot of accessory companies to make parts for them as well as standard AKM variants.

Cons:
-It weighs just over 8 lbs unloaded
-Barrel is not chrome lined
-Many parts (stock, optics rail, handguards, ect....) are non-standard for AKM pattern accessories)
-Some folks report 'cheek slap' from the stock.  I discuss/demonstrate how to avoid that in the video below however

All in all it's an excellent rifle for the money.    Build quality is on par with the higher end AKs yet it's priced on the lower end of the spectrum.   Function is great and with a little cleaning up of the wood it would look pretty good to boot.  

Here's a video with a bunch of shooting (day/night), a discussion of some of the unique features of the rifle, an accuracy test, and an what I think of it overall:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x-fDRqPeCwc ≈                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    

Gen 3 Glock 26

The Glock 26 is one of the most popular carry guns for good reason.   I've been carrying the Gen3 G26 for a long time and here's what I've found.

Pros: 
-Reliable.  The gun has had 0 malfunctions
-Accurate.  For s subcompact gun it's relatively easy to shoot well. 
-Durable   
-Easy to maintain 
-TONS of aftermarket support.
-Accepts 15, 17, and 33 round factory magazines 
-Glock's customer service is excellent
-Cheap replacement parts, should you ever need them 
-Low Bore Axis resulting in a soft shooting gun, especially for the weight.
-Easily modified to fit the shooters' preferences
-Requires very little cleaning/lubrication to run reliably 
-Carries well but you still have a 10+1 capacity.



Cons: 
-Most shooters will not be able to get amore than 3 fingers on the grip.
-Comes with a serrated trigger (even the US models)

Here's a video with some shooting, a size comparison with the CM9 & S&W Shield, and a discussion of the pros and cons of the gun.

ROSCH Works SL1

The SL1 by ROSCH Works is a combination front sight and weapon light in one lightweight, very well thought out, rugged, compact, and ergonomic package.     I've had it for a little over a month now and ran it on two rifles both during the day and night.    Here's what I've found so far….


Pros:
-Well thought out.  Mounting, operation, and zeroing are simple and straightforward.
-It's probably over engineered.   7076 T6 aluminum body.   Finished with type III anodizing and cerakote on the body/tailcap.    Type III anodizing only on the bezel.  Steel components (sight post/bolts) are melonited for corrosion resistance and surface hardening.
-Malkoff driver.   CREE XP-G2 6200k temp output.    It's a good balance of throw and spill.    The spill is especially impressive (see video below).
-Mounts to any 1913 style rail.
-O ring sealed on the front and back end for water resistance
-3.2oz (with single CR123 battery), 3.4'' length
-Comes with hex wrench and sight adjustment tool along with loctite.   Loctite isn't needed due to the design but out of blind obedience to my old platoon sergeant I loctite everything anyway….
-250 lumen output with a 50 minute run time (at that output; it will run with a diminished output much longer).
-Mounts up at the 12 o'clock position.
     -Usable from cover/barricades
     -Low likelihood of snagging on slings/gear
     -Shadowing at the 6 o'clock position
     -Easy activation with either hand
-Cost.   $235 shipped which in my opinion is very reasonable for the quality of the components you get and what it would cost for similar components (front sight, light, possibly a mount) of similar quality.
-Constant on, momentary on, and lock out are the modes.   Very simple which under stress is generally your friend.

Cons:
-The tailcap design may lead to flickering under recoil of heavy calibers.   I didn't experience it on my 5.56 ARs nor did I get it when hitting the buttstock on the ground but ROSCH Works says it can happen so I'll take their word for it.
-The standard tailcap is not compatible with aftermarket tailcaps.
-ROSCH Works is developing a tailcap adaptor which will be compatible with Surefire E-series tailcaps.  This will fix the issue above (if it's perceived as an issue).    It will also allow for pressure switches to be ran.

All in all, it really is a great product and it seem like ROSCH Works has a winner on their hands with their first product released to the marketplace.    In the video below I do a little shooting (day/night), discuss & demonstrate the features of the light, and go over what I think of it overall:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=831Orr78sts

Condor Exo Plate Carrier (XPC) Review

The rise in body armor among the civilian population has been trending upward the last several years due to a variety of factors--economic fears, lower cost of armor (especially soft panels and steel plates), and a better understanding of the capabilities of these systems have all helped in the proliferation of civilian owned/used body armor.

Most plate carriers or body armor systems on the market are marketed toward the military/LE community however; the features and prices reflect it as well.    One offering out now on the lower end of the cost spectrum is the Condor XPC.   It comes to market around $60-90 and claims to offer some of the features of the top notch offerings out there so I snatched one up to see if it's true.

Pros:
-Cost.  It's probably going to be the driving factor for most folks looking at this rig.
-It can be used with just soft armor, plates, or a combination of the two.
-Available in black, tan, OD green, and multicam.
-Hook and loop sections on the front and back for nametapes, patches, ect...  These sections can still be used with MOLLE compatible accessories.
-Fully adjustable cumberbun.
-Did much better in my drag test that I expected honestly.
-Adjustable shoulder straps.
-Shoulder strap padding is better than some of Condor's previous offerings that I've seen.
-Comes in S/M (takes 10x12.5'' plates) and L/XL (takes 10.5x14.5'' plates)

Cons:
-I'm not a fan of the mesh interior lining.  They say it's for cooling but I'd prefer some normal cordura for increased durability.
-The hydration tube loops seem like they don't integrate well into the design.  I'd like to see them redesigned.
-There is a map pouch in the front.  It doesn't fold down like many other carriers though.  That's probably just a personal preference thing however.
-I have a bunch of plate carriers; the stitching on this isn't as heavy as some of my high end carriers--no doubt about it.  But, for most non-military folks it'll likely hold up just fine.   Time will tell I suppose.


Here's a review/overview video with some shooting, a drag test, a discussion of the features of the carrier, and just my thoughts on it overall:

Ameriglo I.C.E. EMS Claw Rear Sight For Glocks

The CLAW rear sight was designed to aid in one handed manipulations and it does just that.   I've had it on my Glock 19 for a while and here's what I've found.

Pros:
-It really grabs onto hard surfaces to aid in one handed racking of the slide
-Standard heights for Glock (large and small frame), and M&P pistols
-Black nitrided finish for durability and hardness
-Cost.  It's only $24 for the rear sight.   Tough to beat that.


Cons:
-I'd like to see serrations on the rear of the sight but that would likely add cost.   It's a trade off I suppose.

Here's a video with some shooting, close up shots of the sight on the gun, and my overall thoughts one the sight:

Magpul MBUS Pro Back Up Sights Review

Lots of gun owners aren't a fan of polymer; bottom line.    The merits of that mindset can be debated for days without reaching a conclusion but the fact remains.    Magpul has released a set of all steel back up iron sights to satisfy the desires of those steel-loving devotees.    Here's what I've found so far with them....

Pros:

-Priced lower than comparable competitors steel back up sights.  MSRP is $105 for the rear, $85 for the front.

-They have a melonited surface finish treatment that hardens them for durability and also provides corrosion resistance.

-All adjustments can be made without tools but the likelihood of them being accidently moved is low in my opinion (see the video for a demonstration of why)

-Very slim and sleek design but they're still standard AR height.

-Front sight is a great option for those with a railed gas block.

-Can be mounted on any 1913/STANAG rail.

-Rear sight is 1.8oz, front sight is 1.5 oz.

-Dual apertures on the rear.

-Serrations around the rear aperture and on the sides of the front sight reduce the likelihood of glare impacting your sight picture when shooting in bright sunlight.

-Magpul is a company that stands behind their products and you can be sure great CS will be there if you ever need it.

Cons:

-Cost.  $190 is a tough pill to swallow when many of us have never had the slightest issue with our MBUS Gen2s.

-They're MIM.   I don't mind this but I know lots of folks do so it's worth mentioning.

All in all I think they'll sell well and they'll cause their competitors to re-consider their pricing strategies if they want to stay relevant in the marketplace.   In the video below you'll see them in action, close ups of all the features, and a discussion of the pros in cons.

Silver Bear 7.62x39 Soft Point Ballistic Gel Test

Finished up the testing of the Silver Bear 7.62x39 125gr soft point round.  Lots of folks say Russian soft point rounds don't expand; well I figured I'd test them to see if that's the case. Here are the conditions and results. 

Test conditions: 
-16'' SGL21

-Test rounds fired from 15 feet 
-"FBI spec" (Their term, not mine...) Clear Ballistics gel block
 

Chrono Data: 

-2403 feet per second

-1601 foot pounds of energy 

Results:

-Expansion started at 1'' mark

-Pretty nasty wound track

-Steel jacket separated from the core

-20.5'' penetration

Here's the video showing the test, the permanent cavity, both shots into the gel, and a discussion of the results:

FNH FNS 9mm Review

I've had the FNS since last November of last year and have been putting a good bit of rounds through it to date and here's what I've found.

Pros:
-100% reliable thus far
-Comes with 3x 17 round magazines
-I like the night sights with the wide "u" notch rear
-It's more accurate than I am
-Reasonably priced vs. its' competitors
-Low bore axis
-Cold hammer forged barrel
-Standard 1913 rail
-Ambi mag release and slide lock
-Great ergos
-Forward and rear cocking serrations
-Ease of maintenance
-Comes with interchangeable flat and arched backstraps
-Extractor doubles as a loaded chamber indicator like a Glock

Cons:
-I think the trigger's a little heavy (breaks between 6-7 pounds)
-FN seems to have fixed the initial trigger locking issues
-The standard model has an external safety.  The LE restricted model doesn't.  I'd like to see them offer both to everyone as many folks do not want an external safety.
-Aftermarket magazine availability is an issue compared to its' competitors

Here's a video with a little shooting, a demonstration of how to break the gun down, a size comparison with a G17/1911 for those unfamiliar with it, and a discussion of the features of the gun:

Midwest Armor Guardian IV Armor Test And Review

I recently tested the Guardian IV ceramic level IV plates from Midwest Armor.   They were designed to be a reasonably priced plate while still maintaining level IV protection.    They retail for $199 but Midwest Armor was gracious enough to offer my viewers with a discount code of "MGG" available on their website.   With that code you'll get each plate for $125 (pretty good price for level IV protection).   I shot them up with 9mm, 40 S&W, 5.56x45, 7.62x39, 5.45x39, and 7.62x54r.  Here's what I found:

Pros:
-Stopped all rounds
-Made in the USA
-Guaranteed for 5 years
-10''x12'' and 1'' thick
-Curved for comfort
-The shoulder areas are cut for shouldering long guns
-Each plate weighs 7.3 pounds

Cons:
-Really the only one I can think of is the fact that it only comes in one size.

Crimson Trace Master Series 1911 Grips

The Master Series grips operate similarly to the basic CT laser grips but they have a G10 pattern on them for a better grip, especially under adverse conditions.

Pros:
-You are able to see them in bright sunlight but they do jump out better in lower light conditions
-It helps when shooting from unorthodox/non standard shooting positions
-Adjustable for windage/elevation
-Instinctive activation
-Great for dry fire practice
-They do have an 'on/off' switch so you can save your battery when practicing
-Crimson Trace provides replacement batteries each year for as long as you own the grips
-Dot size is 1/2'' at 50 feet
-Available for several size 1911 frames.


Cons:
-Price.   Generally the Master Series grips run $275 and up
-Can become a crutch; especially for new shooters.

Here's a video review with some shooting in bright sunlight, some night shooting, and a discussion of the pros/cons of the grips:

H&K P7M13 Tactical Stapler Review

The H&K P7M13 (and all P7 variants) is a very interesting gun.   I've had mine for a while and every time it makes an appearance at the range it always seems to draw a crowd.   Here's a summary of my impressions of the gun:

Pros:
-Extremely reliable.  This gun has never had a single malfunction in my hands
-Excellent trigger
-I'm a fan of the mag ambi mag release
-Very sleek lines and it's pretty slim overall for a 13+1 gun
-I have large hands and like how the gun feels in the hand but those with smaller hands may be better off going with the P7M8
-Very low bore axis combined with the piston system (more on this in the video below) make for a very, very light recoil impulse.
-Easy and fast reloads can be accomplished with the use of the squeeze cocker
-No magazine safety
-Excellent accuracy from the fixed, cold hammer forged barrel
-Fluted chamber for increased reliability under adverse conditions
-Top of the slide is milled to reduce glare

Cons:
-Cost.  They're expensive and no longer in production.   Mags aren't cheap either.  The prices on gunbroker seem to be all over the place but they pretty much start at $1300 and go up a good bit for a good condition or rare model
-It gets hot after a few magazines of rapid shooting
-Cleaning the gas system is somewhat annoying but it's not a deal breaker in my opinion

All in all it's an excellent firearm as you'd expect from H&K.  In the review below I do some shooting, explain/demonstrate the unique features of the gun, and go over the pros/cons of it overall:

BCM Gunfighter Compensator Mod 0

The BCM Gunfighter Compensator Mod O has been out for a while now and I've had it for a few months; here's what I've found.

Pros:
-The dimensions match up with the standard bird cage so suppressors that use the A2 will work on this.    As will blank firing adaptors.
-Helps with muzzle rise vs the A2
-No where near as much side blast as side ported brakes/comps
-Stainless steel construction.
-This is the standard size (Mod 0) but the Mod 1 is available to be used on 14.5'' pinned barrels to comply with NFA laws
-Retails for $90 +/- $10
-Less flash signature than standard side ported comps

Cons:
-Not as much muzzle movement reduction as the Battlecomp (but it costs less than the Battlecomp).   The recoil impulse feels like the gun wants to move a little right or left rather than up or back.

Here's a review with some day and night shooting, a side by side comparison of the flash signature with the Battlecomp, and a discussion of the pros and cons of the comp:

HK Translucent AR-15 Polymer Magazine Review

I did a little shooting with the H&K translucent mag and here's my initial impressions:

Pros:
-0 issues at all
-Both steel & brass case ammo feed flawlessly
-Bolt locks open on last round
-Good texturing on mag body
-They look good
-Did well when dropped on their feed lips on concrete repeatedly (see video)
-Disassembles easily

Cons:
-Price.  These are coming to market at $20/ea
-Thicker than other mags, may be an issue in double mag pouch set-ups.

Here's the review with a bunch of shooting, a discussion of the pros/cons, disassembly, and a drop test:

Inforce APL Light Revew

I've been using my APL for a while now, here's what I've found...

Pros:

-Cost.  The light can be had for around $100

-The activation paddles are very easy to activate and ambidextrous

-Uses relatively common CR123 battery

-Mounts easily

-Comes with two mounting brackets---universal and 1913

-200 C4 LED output.   It's a nice white light with a good peripheral cone.

-O ring sealed

-Lightweight.   Weighs 2.8oz.

Cons:

-It's not as bright as some lights on the market but brightness isn't an end all, be all on a weapon light.

-1.5hr runtime (but only uses 1 battery vs. 2 for most weapon lights.

Here's a review of the light with a side by side comparison with some other weapon lights at night, some shooting, and a discussion of the pros and cons:

S&W Shield Defensive Ammo Test

There are lots of debates out there about what ammo to use in the new breed of short barreled 9mm guns.  So, I brought a few loads to test from my S&W Shield 9mm.  Here's what I found:

Test conditions: 
-S&W Shield with a 3.1'' barrel

-Test rounds fired from 10 feet 
-"FBI spec" (Their term, not mine...) Clear Ballistics gel block
 

Results:

Remington UMC 115gr JHP

-1065 FPS/292 FT/LBS energy

-18.5'' of penetration

Winchester Ranger 115gr JHP

-989 FPS/250 FT/LBS energy

-16'' of penetration

Federal HST 124gr JHP

-990 FPS/270 FT/LBS energy

-13.5'' penetration

Federal HST 124gr JHP +p

-1071 FPS/316 FT/LBS energy

-12'' of penetration

Speer Gold Dot 124gr +p

-1176 FPS/382 FT/LBS energy

-15.5'' penetration

Brown Bear 115gr FMJ (since some folks say you need FMJ out of these guns for 'adequate' penetration)

-1046 FPS/279 FT/LBS energy

-26'' of penetration

To see the test, the results, and the actual expansion of the round when I pulled them out of the gel block check out the video test below:

Here's the video showing the test, the permanent cavity, both shots into the gel, and a discussion of the results:

Magpul 40 Round PMag Review

I've been using these mags for a couple weeks now and here's a quick rundown of the new 40 round Gen M3 PMag from Magpul...

Pros:

-100% reliable in all of my riles thus far.

-Compatible with HK 416, SCAR 16, SA80, MK 16, Tavor, ect...

-According to Magpul, more durable than Gen2 MOE PMags

-Same marking system as all Gen M3 PMags

-40 rounds is obviously cooler than 30 rounds

-Compatible with the Maglink

Cons:

-Firing from the prone

-They're tough to find currently

-Currently only out in black

Here's a video review with some shooting, a couple drop tests while loaded, and a discussion/demonstration of the pros and cons:

Golden Tiger 7.62x39 FMJ Gel Test

Finished up the testing of the Golden Tiger 7.62x39 124gr FMJBT round.  Here are the conditions and results. 

Test conditions: 
-16'' SGL21

-Test rounds fired from 15 feet 
-"FBI spec" (Their term, not mine...) Clear Ballistics gel block
 

Chrono Data: 

-2367 feet per second

-1542 foot pounds of energy 

Results:

-1st shot tumbled out of the 2nd gel block

-2nd shot stopped at 29.5''

-Good tumbling can be seen along the wound track

Here's the video showing the test, the permanent cavity, both shots into the gel, and a discussion of the results:

Federal 5.56 Mod0 62gr Mod0 SOST Gel Test

Finished up the testing of the Federal 5.56 62gr Mod0 OTM SOST round.  Here are the conditions and results. 

Test conditions: 
-16'' CHF PSA barrel

-Test rounds fired from 15 feet 
-"FBI spec" (Their term, not mine...) Clear Ballistics gel block
 

Chrono Data: 

-2997 feet per second

-1235 foot pounds of energy 

Results:

-1st shot passed through 32'' of gel

-2nd shot stopped at 32''

-Fragmentation occurred along the way

Here's the video showing the test, the permanent cavity, both shots into the gel, and a discussion of the results:

Recalled Caracal F Update

As most of you know, in 2012 Caracal announced that most (if not all) of the Caracal C & F pistols in the US were subject to a  recall due to the possibility that a round may discharge if the pistol was dropped.

So, I requested a replacement about 7 months ago and got a call about a month ago that my replacement  F was in and Caracal sent me a FedEx pre-paid shipping label to send my gun in for replacement.  Less than a week later  I had my new F in my hands.  

Pros:
-Free magazine, shirt, hat, & pen.
-Free installation of a front fiber optic front sight (had to pay for the part though)
-Included a 15% discount coupon off my next Caracal purchase
-Still has a great trigger (more on this in the video below)
-Quick turnaround once I sent it in.

Cons:
-Took a while for the replacement gun to get into the country; still waiting on my replacement C model

Here's the video with some shooting with the new gun, a discussion of the differences between the old and new one, and my overall thoughts of the process:

Winchester Ranger 40 S&W 135gr JHP Ballistics Test (Q4368)

Finished up the testing of the Winchester Ranger 135gr 40 S&W JHP load.  Here are the results:

Conditions:

-Test gun: Gen2 Glock 22

-Media: Clear Ballistics "FBI spec" (they're term, not mine....) gel block with 4 layers of denim

Chrono Data:

-1174 FPS, 414 FT/LBS energy from 10 feet

-18'' penetration

-134 grains retained weight

-.58'' average expansion

I was quite surprised by the penetration but my guess is it was likely due to the fact that it didn't expand as much as other 40 S&W bullets I've tested to date.   

Here's the video of the test so you can see how it all played out:

Surefire X300 Ultra Review

I've had the Surefire X300U for a while now but never did a review; so here goes... 

Pros:

-500 lumens with a good balance of throw/spill

-Uses two 3V CR2 lithium battery.

-Comes with a 1913 and universal mount/insert so it'll fit most modern rail systems to include rifles

-It handles recoil well.  I've used the light on my G20 with hot ammo as well as on an AK with 0 issues from the recoil

-Rocker switch can be used for temporary and constant on modes

-Great warranty

-4oz weight

Cons:

-1.5 hours of constant on.   The old battery life vs lumens issue is at play here.

-It's extremely tight when mounted on some guns.   This could be a pro for some but, on my Glocks for example, the light is seemingly stuck on the gun and I've had to tap it with a rubber mallet while pulling down the tabs before to get it off.    

-Price.  No getting around it---it's expensive.   It generally runs around $210-240.

Summary:

It's an excellent all around weapon light.   It's versatile, bright, and durable.  The big question is whether or not it's worth the money.  Only you can answer that ultimately I suppose.

Here's a video showing the light in use on several guns, a comparison with some different lights, some night shooting, and a discussion of the pros/cons of the light: