Illinois-based Tyrant Designs is one of those accessory companies that hardcore AR and handgun owners already know.

Their finely-tuned CNC-machined extras for your Glock or AR can turn an otherwise stock blaster into a custom personal protection machine with the simple twist of a screw or MLOK nut.

And needless to say, there’s no cheapo polymer molding here, just well-shaped and smooth aluminum accessories that pay as much attention to their form as they do their function.

Long known for its Glock 19/17 magazine extensions and compensators, Tyrant is set to release magazine extensions for the ever-popular, high-cap Glock 43X and Glock 48 carry pistols.

[BUY NOW: Tyrant Designs Glock 43X and Glock 48 magazine extension]

Utilizing our magazine extension technology the Tyrant Designs Glock 43x & 48 magazine extension is the fastest and easiest installing mag extension ever! Adds 4 rounds to your factory magazine AND includes a 10% power spring. Drop your mags faster, and grab them easily with their machined inlay!

We use our retention plunger technology that allows the magazine extension to easily slide onto the bottom of your magazine! The entire install happens in 10 seconds or less and with no tools!

Just push the plunger down and slide the magazine base plate off!

Our magazine base pads are CNC machined from aerospace grade aluminum. This gives any operator the added weight needed for your base pad to drop free and fast. Our mag extensions instantly add 4 rounds to your 9mm Glock 43x/48.

With an added knurl our Glock 43x & 48 mag extension is easy to grasp in any condition, making reloads faster than our competitors.

As always, our products are manufactured in the USA and have a flawless finish. There is no easier and quicker way to add the much needed capacity to your Glock 43x & 48 than with our Glock magazine extension.

Whether you are an avid concealed carrier, an active competitive shooter or anything in-between, our Glock 43x & 48 Magazine Extension is the solution!

There’s been some criticism of the 10+1 G48 and 43X that the mags only fit those platforms. But with Tyrant looking to service carriers who use those platforms (like us) the company is clearly targeting a market with high demand for “standard” Glock capacity — even for a slim line carry pistol.

And for all of you Mil/LE types out there, Tyrant is offering a 5% discount through GearScout using leo5.

Red dot sights for pistols are becoming widely accepted and one of the hottest topics in the industry.

Experts once called them a gaming toy never to be used on the street or for duty, but those days are long gone. Considered all but mandatory on rifles these days, it’s a far cry from “iron sights rule.”

Irons are great, you should learn on and practice with them, but denying yourself the ability to better aim and get hits on a threat or target is kind of ridiculous.

It was only a matter of time before pistols would see the same progression.

As Mini Red Dot Sights get smaller, stronger and easier to see, shooters are starting to recognize the advantages. Just like rifles it’s easier to aim and get hits in a number of conditions. Optics-ready pistols are becoming the norm rather than the exception, with new models regularly coming to the market.

It begs the question, are they for me, and if so which one?

Let’s bust a myth or two and provide some honest direction.

Red dot tip: Pistol optics are tough as a hammer

Over 40 years of shooting I have had front and rear sights fall off, dots come out and every conceivable level of pistol fail from fantastic plastic to works of machining art.

It’s mechanical, failure is inevitable and indestructible is a marketing ploy not reality. Red dot sights are no exception, and just like their rifle predecessors, they failed a bunch to start and have improved considerably.

Perfect? Nope.

But getting close, and sights exist to fit most needs. Not everyone needs an RDS that can be dropped from a helicopter, run over by a tank then submersed at 33 feet for an hour without losing zero.

Some do, or at least think so. Avoid getting sucked into the idea your equipment is not usable unless you can smack it with a sledge hammer and keep on trucking.

Red dot tip: Pistol optics (generally) make you faster

It’s pretty simple, accuracy and speed at close range are about position, natural point of aim, stability and a good trigger press. It’s not the dot, blade or glow stick on the front. Any difference will be negligible inside seven yards, maybe even 10 yards.

The better you were before the RDS the less the difference.

The fastest shooters on planet Earth use red dot sights, have for years, but few did so to hit an ISPC target faster at 10 yards. Many are faster without sights than us mere mortals with them.

But move things out farther and that all changes almost without regard to your skill level.

Fist sized groups on a six inch steel at 50 yards is the norm for me using an RDS. At 25 yards from a supported position they are clustered together. Even from offhand it’s not hard to stay inside that fists distance at 25 yards.

Even hitting a silhouette at 100 yards is possible without much difficulty. If you can hold the dot reasonably steady you can get hits and it’s a ton easier to do it with an RDS than a front sight, especially as you age.

And that is another advantage. The older you get the harder it is for most to focus on that front sight or even see it. Picking up that red dot is a ton easier. Add movement and it gets even better.

Hold the dot on target and press, no need to “align” a rear sight. Using solid basics, recoil and muzzle control and proper training you will be more accurate, faster, and have better repeat shots using a dot in most every situation.

Red dot tip: Don’t chase the dot

The “trick” to using a pistol red dot is simple — don’t chase the dot.

If you are an experienced shooter do what you’ve always done, build and maintain solid basics. Bring the pistol to target the same way you always have, and there will be a dot there — generally before the front sight.

Don’t chase it, just see it, don’t change your stance, grip, or anything else, it’s a sight not anything magic and basics win the day. For many new shooters it’s even easier because its easier to see the sight, just like it is on a rifle.

Stay focused on that dot, just like your front sight there is just no need to align the rear, if the dots on target you are too. Keep the dot on target and press away with a smooth straight trigger pull disturbing that dot as little as you can.

Toughest pistol red dots

If you feel like your sight must survive punishment there are a few proven examples, or at least mostly proven. Trijicon’s type 2 RMR is the big dog in that hunt.

[BUY NOW: Trijicon RMR pistol red dot]

Designed to withstand as much punishment as an MRDS can they are about as rugged as it gets, proven in testing and during duty and military use.

Leupold’s Delta Point PRO is next with quite a bit of testing under pretty harsh conditions.

Aimpoint’s new ACRO looks to fit this category as well, it’s just new.

[BUY NOW: The new Aimpoint ACRO pistol red dot]

Same goes for the Sig Sauer Romeo 1 Pro model and the Trijicon SRO.

[BUY NOW: Trijicon SRO pistol red dot]

Military-issue pistol red dots

Both the Delta Point Pro and Trijicon’s RMR / SRS have secured military contracts making them solid and proven choices. Given time, testing, and an ever increasing demand, those choices will increase.

Carry sights need to be strong and hold up to daily use, but can be smaller and easier to conceal fitting on smaller pistols.

Concealed carry pistol red dots

Shield Sights makes several including the RMS-C (Compact), one of the most popular. Their new RMS-W is water proof and uses a harder glass screen.

Sig Sauer Electro Optics’ latest Romeo Zero is a great example of a compact sight designed around their Sig P365 XL pistol.

[BUY NOW: Sig Sauer Romeo Zero pistol red dot]

With new sights hitting the market almost monthly there are a ton of choices that are excellent for most. Vortex has offered several sights for years, Crimson Trace has jumped into this market with a vengeance.

Budget pistol red dots

Holosun has really started to catch on and offer a full line of quality sights. If it’s truly just for fun or on a rimfire, many of the less expensive imports are fine and just plain fun.

[BUY NOW: Holosun Reflex pistol red dot sight]

It’s really all about what you are going to do with the pistol it’s on, not everything is best served by spending more on the sight than the pistol.

Best pistol red dot mounts

One of the more daunting and honestly irritating issues with a pistol RDS is mounting them on your pistol.

The two most common mounting patterns are the Trijicon RMR and Leupold Delta Point Pro along with the Shield Sights for the smaller pistols.

It seems as if everyone else is doing their own thing.

[BUY NOW: Reptilia pistol red dot mount for Trijicon RMR]

Sig Sauer’s P320 is fit for their Romeo 1 Pro, it will work with a Delta Point Pro but is not really designed for it.

Everyone seems to put their locking pins in a different spot. Many factory pistols will offer plates that fit into their slide that let you use several of them.

FN America’s 509 is a great example as is Glock’s MOS line. Others have slides cut to fit one pattern — the Sig P365 XL and new Springfield Armory Hellcat are good examples. Both use the Shield RMSc pattern, perfect for their size.

Universal seems to be the thing for factory offerings, but custom CNC machining is available for just about anything. Ultimately the fit at the front and rear of the RDS in the cut the less it beats up the sight.

Red dot tip: Install backup iron sights

My personal preference and recommendation is that carry or duty pistols have back up iron sights that can be co-witnessed if possible. Whether the rear is in front or behind the RDS is personal preference, or dictated by space on the slide.

Many newer RDS have built in rear sights that line up with the front and that’s fine, especially with smaller pistols. It’s just not acceptable (to me) to end up with no visible sighting mechanism on a carry pistol and iron sights insure that.

Red Dots break, all of them, and you need sights in a fight. Until these new RDS are “perfect,” better to have and not necessarily need than the reverse.

Competitive shooters seldom have iron sights on their RDS equipped pistols. Given their time on the trigger, they are practiced at indexing through the screen. Besides, no one’s life depends on what they do at a match.

Just like on a rifle, it does remove any distractions and with practice is incredibly fast. Same could be true with a range pistol — one that is never carried. Some will practice with no iron sight on a range or game pistol and carry the same kind of pistol with iron sights.

It does make it easy to get dialed in on the dot while still providing a basic system for fighting.

Red dot tip: Get with the program and buy one

Consumer demand drives improvement and the industry is catching up.

Perfect? Not by a long shot.

But pistol red dots are getting better with no end in sight to their capabilities. None are magic wands making you lightning fast but they offer serious improvements for many.

Each has its own strengths and weaknesses depending on who they were designed for. As they become smaller, more rugged and better proven, they will only increase in use. Make sure to get some training, don’t just shoot a magazine and call it good.

If you are going to use it in a fight, step up and use one that’s combat proven.

Above all, practice, because all an RDS does is help you aim, not shoot — and that is only made better through practice.

Sightline Media Group, LLC writes about products and services to help our readers navigate when shopping online. Sightline Media Group, LLC may receive a share of revenue from our affiliate partners if you purchase products or contract services through our links.

The problem with increasing the scope of a product catalog every single year in the world of weapon lights, is that supporting accessories must be changed as well. Meaning more money on the end-user, as well as accessory makers like holster companies. This is especially problematic for police departments or military units that issue holsters to their officers who use weapon-mounted lights.

Thankfully, Streamlight is reintroducing updated versions of their older TLR-1 and TLR-2 tactical lights that feature double the lumens of the originals, but in an identical outer package. Check out the details below.

EAGLEVILLE, PA, February 20, 2020 – Streamlight® Inc., a leading provider of high-performance lighting and weapon light/laser sighting devices, announced it has improved the output of four of its TLR® high lumen (HL) gun-mounted lights, including the TLR-1 HL®; the TLR-2 HL®; the TLR-2 HL® G, and the TLR-1 HPL®. Each model now delivers 1,000 lumens of blinding white light.

“Tactical users and outdoor enthusiasts alike will appreciate the increased brightness of these rugged, yet compact and lightweight TLR models,” said Streamlight President and Chief Executive Officer Ray Sharrah. “The TLR-1 HL, TLR-2 HL and TLR-2 HL G are designed to provide full situational awareness, offering a wide beam pattern that is similar to a floodlight for a variety of tactical maneuvers such as clearing a dark room, searching alleys, or other outdoor uses. The high performance TLR-1 HPL also functions as a high lumen light, while delivering a brighter hotspot which puts more light on a target at a distance.”

In addition to their enhanced lumen capability, the TLR-1 HL, TLR-2 HL, and TLR-2 HL G also now offer 20,000 candela and a 283-meter beam distance, while the TLR-1 HPL provides 60,000 candela and a 490-meter beam distance. Each light has a continuous run time of 1.5 hours. The TLR-2 HL also is equipped with a 640-660 nanometer integrated red aiming laser for long-range targeting, while the TLR-2 HL G features a 510-530 nanometer green aiming laser to improve focusing on targets, particularly in daylight.

The upgraded lights feature the latest in LED technology, including a shock-proof high-power LED. All four models also feature strobing capability, offering the added benefit of being able to signal in the field or disorient targets.

The enhanced TLR models can be quickly and safely attached to most weapons, without the need for users to put their hands in front of the muzzle. They mount directly to all MIL-STD-1913 (Picatinny) rails and handguns with Glock-style rails, and offer highly accurate sight repeatability when remounting. A key kit with six interchangeable keys is included to securely fit each light to the broadest array of rails.

All of the models are fabricated from 6000 series machined aluminum, feature impact-resistant construction and have been extensively live-fired tested. They each use two included 3-volt, CR123A lithium batteries.

The TLR-1 HL weighs 4.32 ounces with batteries, while the TLR-2 HL and the TLR-2 HL G both weigh 4.88 ounces with batteries; all three lights measure 3.39 inches in length. The TLR-1 HPL weighs 5.6 – 5.9 ounces and measures 4.83 – 5.25 inches with batteries, using a standard or remote switch, respectively.

The TLR-1 HL and TLR-1 HPL are IPX7 rated for waterproof operation to 1 meter for 30 minutes, while the TLR-2 HL and TLR-2 HL G offer an IPX4 rated design for water-resistant operation.

The TLR-1 HL, TLR-2 HL, TLR-2 HL G, and TLR-1 HPL have MSRPs that range from $243 to $634. Each light comes with Streamlight’s Limited Lifetime Warranty.

Again, this is excellent news for shooters who already own a holster designed for the older TLR models, or those who like the form-factor who want better performance. Additionally, it seems the despite the boost in power, these new versions of the older TLRs are still affordably priced. For more information, visit www.Streamlight.com

The first is their USW-P10c — a variant of their pistol PDW chassis that transforms a pistol into a short range personal defense weapon.

This new model features an optics rail, accessory rail and a collapsible stock to aid in weapon/recoil control as well as weapon retention, but it differs from previous models in that it is compatible with the CZ P10 F and P10 C.

Full details below in the official release.

The success of the B&T USW as well as the B&T USW-G Chassis has stirred the interest to have this innovative and accurate system also available for other popular pistols. B&T is happy to fullfil these demands with the introduction of a USW Chassis for the CZ P-10 F and the CZ P-10 C.

The Universal Service Weapon (USW) developed by B&T is a game changer. The ability to precisely engage targets far beyond normal pistol range has a great appeal to all professional users. The USW-P10 conversion kit is the ultimate add on for the CZ P-10 F and the P-10 C. It offers the operator the choice of using the pistol in the traditional way as well as with the built in folding stock, while the transition only requires less than a mere second. Due to its elaborated design, the operator can mount an optionally available red dot sight on top of the chassis and use the original open sights as back up.

The design of the USW-P10 is not just a new weapon but an entire new category of weapon, that fills the gap between Pistol, Submachine Gun and Police Carbine. The USW-P10 installed on the CZ P-10 F or C will enable any operator to engage targets effectively from 0 out to 75 meters (82 yards). This is thanks to the new concept that combines the latest Aimpoint ACRO P-1® Red Dot Sight, integrated side folding stock and the clever patented design. The ACRO red dot sight is used as the primary aiming system, while the original open sights remain as a backup. The folding stock is integrated into the aluminum chassis. The bridge of the receiver which mounts the Aimpoint is fixed, thus the Aimpoint does not move and stays stationary during the cycling process. The chassis also has a Picatinny/NAR (NATO Accessory Rail) to accept any type of light or laser on the market.

The all machined aluminum chassis provides a rock solid structure to mount the pistol. The conversion takes about 1 minute and all the parts are supplied. There are no modifications to the weapon.

But the engineers over at B&T aren’t done yet. They also announced a new stock for the HK MP5.

This new aluminum collapsible stock features four locking positions including the collapsed one. But more importantly, the new telescopic B&T stock is much lighter than other MP5 stocks available. In fact, according to the presser, it’s between 21 and 47% lighter. The new stock is based on the AP9 stock built from B&T which has seen some military adoption, and is generally well regarded by end-users. Knowing B&T, this stock will be rock solid, and not inexpensive. Though quality has its price. Full details below.

B&T increases it ́s wide product offering for the MP5 Upgrade Program with the new Telescopic Stock. The design is based on the stock found on the APC9 which has recently been adopted by the US Army. The stock by B&T is a vast improvement over the current OEM product with several nice features that many users have asked for over the years.

Features

• Requires no modification to the MP5 and uses the standard retaining pins.

• The weight of the B&T stock is a mere 495 grams compared to the 630 or 830 grams of the OEM products. This represents 21 % to 47% in weight savings and addresses one of the common complaints with the MP5; it ́s weight issue.

• To open the stock; all that is required is for the operator to pull the stock for a full extension.

• To close the stock, one merely squeezes the lever in the up position and the stock slides into the collapse position.

• Collapsed the weapon is, with 490 mm in total length, up 60 mm more compact than with some OEM stock. This makes the overall weapon easier to fi t into many of the new discreet carry bags and vehicle transportation boxes.

• The stock also possesses two ambidextrous sling loops which will accept the standard OEM sling among others.

• The stock has three different positions which will enable the operator to adjust the length and stock pull to the type

of equipment and body armor being used. The fully extended length when mounted on the MP5 is 665 mm.

• The entire stock is made of shock resistant polymer and high grade aluminum and offers a nonskid butt plate.

• B&T item number: BT-200590

As a fan of PDW style pistols of all types (I’m looking at your Mauser C96 and Browning HiPower!) This is awesome news. The combination of the new USW and a stock for my favorite submachine gun is a pistol caliber carbine-lover’s dream. Hopefully more information will be available soon pertaining to both pricing and availability . For more information, visit http://www.bt-ag.ch/site/eng/

And while this was likely not the inspiration for SIG’s latest offering, it’s still great news that the long-time arms maker-turned-optics-and-ammo-maker continues to offer quality thermal optics.

Indeed, the ECHO 3 isn’t SIG’s first foray into the realm of thermal weapon sights, it is the company’s first direct-view thermal sight — meaning, it has infinite eye relief, and can function equally well on close range weapons like submachine guns, as well as midrange firearms like carbines and rifles.

Full information below in the press release.

NEWINGTON, N.H., (February 25, 2020) – SIG SAUER Electro Optics is pleased to introduce the ECHO3 Thermal Reflex Sight. The ECHO3 is a direct view thermal sight, utilizing SIG SAUER BDX technology, with the capability to capture images and record video in eight different color palettes.

“The ECHO3 is an ultra-compact, lightweight direct-view thermal sight,” said Andy York, President, SIG SAUER Electro-Optics. “The innovative direct-view thermal display on the ECHO3 is a massive improvement over traditional eyepiece style thermals which induce eye fatigue and force the shooter to

look through the sight. The ECHO3 allows the shooter to sit back and view the thermal display and when targets are identified, the new BDX reticle technology allows for exact aiming solutions in real time.” The SIG SAUER Electro-Optics ECHO3 is a compact thermal reflex style sight available in a 1-6x or 2-12x magnification, equipped with Ballistic Data Xchange (BDX 2.0), the ECHO3 can be used with 9 different onboard SmartBDC ballistic holdover reticles or it can be paired with any KILOBDX rangefinder. The ECHO3 features a motion activated MOTAC display that powers up when it senses motion with over 6 hours of continuous runtime, and offers video and image recording in eight color palettes, and six brightness settings. The ECHO3 Includes a quick disconnect mount, with an easy to adjust zoom lens with throw lever attachment.

ECHO3 Thermal Reflex Sight Specs:

Sensor: 320×240 12UM VOX LIWR Core

Magnification: 1-6x or 2-12x

Adjustment Increments: 0.5MOA

Objective Lens Diameter: 23mm (1-6)/ 40mm (2-12)

Illumination Settings: 6 Brightness Settings

Color Palettes: 8 Color Palettes – Red, Red Hot, Black Hot, White Hot, Edge, Tyrian, Iron and Fire

Overall Length: 4.1 in (1-6) / 4.7 in (2-12)

Overall Width: 2.6 in.

Overall Height: 3.1 in (1-6) / 3.6 in (2-12)

Weight: 14.5 oz. (1-6) / 16.6 oz. (2-12)

Waterproofing: IPX6

Battery Life: Greater than 6 hours of heavy usage utilizing two (2) CR123 Lithium Batteries

Total Elevation Travel: 150MOA x 150MOA

Assembled In USA

MSRP (1-6x): $3,899.99

MSRP (2-12x): $5,199.99

The SIG SAUER Electro-Optics ECHO3 Thermal Reflex Sight will be available this spring for purchase at retailers nationwide and on the SIG SAUER Webstore. Complete product specs and information for the ECHO3 are available at sigsauer.com.

One of the more noteworthy features of the ECHO 3 is its use of the BDX technology. For readers unfamiliar with the tech, the so-called ballistic drop compensating tech is an automatic ballistic calculating reticle that instantly gives shooter’s the perfect holdover for a given range.

On their standard rifle optics, this equates to super fast ballistic solutions ideal for engaging multiple targets at unknown and known distances. Giving the shooter a substantial edge in an engagement.

The fact that SIG has paired this technology with their excellent thermal sensors provides an all-in-one solution for shooters attempting to puts rounds on targets in low or no light situations with vastly increased confidence. This is especially useful with thermal optics which have a tendency to make visual range-finding difficult as the thermal projection obfuscates shadows and fine details on targets.

Because of this, the ECHO 3 is ideal for nocturnal hog hunts, police/military overwatch and even home defense scenarios. Most impressive of all, is that despite all these features and SIG’s rock-solid warranty, the ECHO 3 retails for under $4,000.

According to the release, the ECHO 3 should be available this Spring, so shooters won’t have to wait long to get their hands on one. For more information, visit www.sigsauer.com .

• Interoperability.  The Squad Common Optic device should be interoperable with and cause no degradation in function to currently fielded host weapons. Squad Common Optic should be compatible with current visual augmentation systems, weapons accessories, lasers, and clip-on night vision devices using a MIL-STD-1913 rail interface as listed below: [Thermals, PEQs, GL Sights, Range Finders]
• Major Components. Each Squad Common Optic should include the following major components:
• Day Scope
• Lens Covers
• Reticle
• Elevation Turrets/Caps
• Windage Turrets/Caps
• Operator’s Manual (hard and digital copy)
• Quick Reference Guide
• Required Tools
• Scope Mount
• Reticle Battery
• Magnification Change Device 
• Soft Protective Carrying Case
• Lens Cleaning Kit with Bush and Lens Cloth
• Weight. The Squad Common Optic should be less than or equal to 2.1 pounds (T), 1.4 pounds (O).  Weight is characterized as including the optic, mount, turret caps, and battery.
• Size. The Squad Common Optic length should be less than or equal to 10.5 inches (T), 10 inches (O).  Length excludes the lens covers. Length is measured at the maximum extended range of adjustment.  
• The Squad Common Optic should be able to positively identify and acquire targets at 600m (T), 900m (O).  Positive identification refers to the range at which a potential target can be positively identified by facial, clothing, weapon and vehicle features, or an activity.
• Magnification Range. The Squad Common Optic should have no point of aim shift when adjusting through the entire magnification ranges. The Squad Common Optic should have a magnification range of 1X +0.05X to ≥8X magnification range.  
• Adjustable diopter: The diopter should be adjustable from +2 to –2 diopters.
• Diopter Locking Mechanism. A locking mechanism should be provided on the diopter setting to prevent inadvertent movement (O).
• Adjustment Range. For all configurations, at least 15 Milliradian (mrad) (T), and 30 mrad (O) in Elevation and at least 12 mrad in Windage adjustment should be required. There should be hard stops at both ends of Windage and Elevation adjustment and no dead clicks. A dead click is defined as a tactile adjustment click that does not move the reticle.
• Adjustment Increments. Each Squad Common Optic configuration should have adjustment increments less than or equal to 0.1 mrad Elevation and Windage (E/W). Adjustment increments on both E/W should be consistent in movement, tactile, and have no dead clicks and require no settling rounds. Settling rounds are defined as host weapon live fire that causes the reticle to move initially but stabilize after the live fire event.
• Adjustment Accuracy. For Squad Common Optic, a less than or equal to 2% adjustment accuracy is required across the full travel in Windage and Elevation (T) and a less than or equal to 1% adjustment accuracy is required across the full travel in Windage and Elevation (O).
• Windage/Elevation Caps. For Squad Common Optic, the Windage and Elevation turret adjustments should be covered with a threaded cap.
• Field of View. At minimum magnification, possess a minimum field of view of 18 degrees (T), 20 degrees (O). At maximum magnification, possess a minimum field of view of 2.5 degrees (T), 3 degrees (O).
• Eye Relief. All Squad Common Optic configurations at any magnification should have an eye relief of at least 3.1 inches (T), 3.7 inches (O).
• Exit Pupil. All Squad Common Optic configurations at any magnification should have an exit pupil range of no less than 2.5mm to no more than 13mm. 
• Resolution. The resolution for the Squad Common Optic should be 10 arc-seconds or less. The 30% contrast resolution for the Squad Common Optic should be 15 arc-seconds or less. 
• Focus/Parallax Adjustment. The Squad Common Optic should have a fixed focus set at 150 meters ± 50 meters and be parallax free at the focus range.
• Focal Plane. Configurations should be first focal plane and/or second focal plane. 
• Reticles. 
• All Squad Common Optic reticle configurations should offer Mil-Reticle patterns vice a Bullet Drop Compensator (BDC) style of reticle pattern.
• All Squad Common Optic reticle configurations should offer an illuminated central aiming point no greater than 1.5 minute of angle (MOA) (T) or 0.5 MOA (O) that is visible during daylight conditions. 
• All Squad Common Optic configurations should offer a variety of reticles (i.e., crosshair, German, duplex, Christmas tree, others). 
• All reticles should be level with a cant of ± 1 degree (T) or no discernable cant (O) when installed in its MIL-STD-1913 compatible mount. 
• Reticle should be usable in the event of degraded capability or no power situation. 
• Future Reticles
• Reticle. The vendor should allow for future reticle designs and operational needs to be included in the Squad Common Optic: Mil Dot, Milliradian Line, Ballistic, Velocity, and Grid hybrids. Graduated grid should provide a method that supports the ability to use Windage hold offs and Elevation holds and holdovers accurately. There should also be coarse and fine methods to quickly range targets. A method to allow for rapid engagement of moving targets should be provided on the main horizontal.
• Configuration. There should be no changes to the Squad Common Optic design when changing to a new reticle other than the reticle itself.
• Reticle Illumination. The reticle illumination should be accomplished using side mounted rotary knobs. The Squad Common Optic should have multiple intensity settings, two night vision goggle compatible settings, and tactile illumination off positions after each on position. Reticle settings should be able to be locked in place to provide for inadvertent power cycling in the field. Reticle should be powered by a single commercially available battery for at least 96 hours at highest illumination setting. The Squad Common Optic should allow for battery changes without removal from the weapon and without specialized tools.
• Scope Mount. All scope mounts should be MIL-STD-1913 compatible. Various scope mount heights should be available. Any dissimilar metals should not interact and cause corrosion or damage when subjected to saltwater and other adverse environmental conditions.
• Magnification Change Capability. The Squad Common Optic should incorporate an attachable (T) or integrated (O) field-adjustable magnification change capability that will allow quick magnification changes from minimum to maximum magnification without passing between the eyepiece and rail interface, hitting the host weapon, or interfering with the function of the host weapon.
• Backup Iron Sights. The Squad Common Optic shall not require the removal of the host weapon’s front and rear iron sights. The front and rear iron sights shall be immediately useable upon removal of the Squad Common Optic.
• Lens Accessories and Protection. All Squad Common Optic configurations should be delivered with detachable protective front and rear lens covers or caps. The Squad Common Optic should feature lenses made of durable scratch resistant hydrophobic material and non-reflective lens coatings (T). All Squad Common Optic configurations should provide lenses with sufficient abrasion resistance that they do not require lens covers (O).
• Surfaces. External surfaces (except for light-transmitting elements) should be finished in a flat neutral non-black color that is non-reflective and corrosion resistant. All the exposed optics should have corrosion and scratch resistant coatings, which permit operation in salt sprays and blowing sand. All markings, coatings, finishes, and exposed O-rings should be resistant to paints solvents, Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear contaminants, and Super Tropical Bleach (STB) decontaminant.
• Signature Reduction and Counter Detection. The Squad Common Optic should be a dull, non-reflective, neutral, non-black color. The Squad Common Optic should not have an audible or visible signature.
• Workmanship. All optics should be free of foreign matter such as dirt, fingerprints, dust, loose material, and moisture. All moving parts should move freely and not bind, creep, or stick.
• Markings. 
• All Squad Common Optics should be etched or engraved with visually distinct markings to include the serial and model number to be easily read. 
• The serial and model number should be sequential, unique, and easily visible when mounted to the weapon (T). 
• All Squad Common Optics should have point of impact adjustment markings and witness marks on the scope body and scope mount for scope alignment.
• The Squad Common Optic serial number and manufacture date must comply with MIL-STD-130_.
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• Labels should incorporate a Unique Identification (UID) code. The UID should contain both the 2D barcode and human readable serial number together. UID construct #2 will be required. 
• The Squad Common Optic should not have any original equipment manufacturer (OEM) proprietary markings

If your head is spinning, don’t worry that’s a ton of info to digest.

In a nutshell, the USMC wants a super durable 3-gun-style variable magnification optic with a BDC reticle. The market is currently flooded with such optics, but most lack the durability necessary for the rigors of military service.

Thankfully, a company with a long history of building optics so durable they’re almost, “soldier-proof” had already developed an sight that met most of the requirements of the SCO RFI — Trijicon. And it seems their high quality design has won a bid for adoption by the Marine Corps.

The official release is below.

Wixom, MI — Trijicon, Inc., global provider of innovative aiming solutions for the hunting, shooting, military, and law enforcement markets, is pleased to announce the selection of the Trijicon VCOG (Variable Combat Optical Gunsight) 1-8×28 riflescope as the U.S. Marine Corps’ Squad Common Optic (SCO). The $64,000,000 contract award will begin with delivery of units in 2020. Trijicon will manufacture the SCO at its Wixom, Michigan factory.

“Our warfighters deserve the very best equipment in defense of our nation. The Marine Corps’ SCO evaluation process was extremely rigorous, and we are honored that the VCOG was selected to continue the tradition of battle-proven riflescopes that the Trijicon ACOG began in 2004 as the Marine Corps’ first Rifle Combat Optic,” said Stephen Bindon, Trijicon President & CEO.

Specifically designed for Close Quarter Battle and long distance marksmanship, the Trijicon VCOG 1-8×28 is forged from a nearly indestructible 7075-T6 aluminum housing and is waterproof to 66 feet. The first focal plane reticle allows subtensions and drops to remain true at any magnification. Featuring ruggedized electronics, the VCOG includes eleven user-selectable brightness settings, including two night vision settings. An integrated dial fin allows easy rotation through the magnification range, and a near-constant eye relief means no head or stock position adjustments are needed. An integrated mounting adapter eliminates the need for conventional ring mounts, allowing users to quickly and easily mount the VCOG to any rail system.

“We introduced the VCOG 1-8×28 to the commercial market in early 2019, but its design was inspired by requests from our warfighters. During design, development, and testing, we constantly challenged ourselves to produce a scope that would deliver the performance necessary in the most punishing of conditions,” said Chuck Wahr, Trijicon’s Global Vice-President of Sales & Marketing.

Trijicon is proud to count among its users every branch of the U.S. military, Special Operations Forces, U.S. Government agencies, state and local Law Enforcement, and many of America’s allies.

This is great news for the Marines, as these optics are absolutely top notch.

Combining the bright light reception of a fixed power optic with the versatility of variable magnification. Plus, these optics feature the excellent BCG reticle and excellent durability Trijicon is known for. For more information, visit www.Trijicon.com

While very well made and extremely durable, the light is very dim by today’s standards, and the use of glass lenses means it tends to shatter them under hard use.

Eventually, the unit was redesigned in Vietnam to be lighter, and more durable. At this point it was renamed the MX991, and still saw widespread use among all branches of the military.

Truly, the angle-headed lamp is an incredibly versatile tool, and one that could still be useful today if streamlined and modernized.

Thankfully, Streamlight has done just that with the introduction of their Sidewinder Boot. Full details below.

EAGLEVILLE, PA, February 25, 2020 – Streamlight® Inc., a leading provider of high-performance lighting and weapon light/laser sighting devices, introduced the Sidewinder Boot®, a compact, hands-free right angle military light that features a red slide-in-place filter. The versatile light, which offers up to 90 hours of run time, is engineered to be the new standard in lighting for boot camp and recruit/basic training lighting needs.

The new light features a 185º tilting head for precise positioning of the light source depending on the work area and an easy-to-use multi-function push-button switch. It includes a spring steel clip that fits to MOLLE or helmet mounts, and uses easily sourced AA alkaline or lithium batteries.

“Designed for military basic training, the Sidewinder Boot can tackle the rigors of boot camp, while also providing a durable right angle flashlight for military and other tactical users at an affordable price point,” said Streamlight President and Chief Executive Officer Ray Sharrah. “The tilting head is key for directing light at any angle for long periods of time, and the red slide-in-place filter eliminates the need for a filter accessory which is subject to being lost or broken.”

The Sidewinder Boot includes a white LED that offers 55 lumens of bright, white light, 1,000 candela, and a 63-meter beam distance. On the low setting, the light offers 7 lumens, 140 candela, and a 24-meter beam distance. Run time ranges from 8 hours on high with an additional 20 hours at 7 lumens, to 90 hours on low.

The light uses two (2) AA alkaline batteries, or two (2) lithium AA batteries for extended operation in extreme temperatures (-40o F to 150o F). Tactile battery polarity indicators are provided to facilitate battery replacement in the dark, and the hinged battery compartment prevents cap loss.

A rubber dome actuator ergonomically integrates the On-Off and intensity functions, eliminating the need to access separate switching locations, while providing easy access even with heavy gloves.

The Sidewinder Boot measures 1.86 inches long and weighs 3.52 ounces with the included alkaline batteries (2.88 ounces with lithium batteries). It features a high-impact case, which offers exceptional durability and weather resistance. With O-ring and gasket-sealed openings, the light is IPX7-rated and is waterproof to 1 meter for 30 minutes. The light is also multiple orientation impact resistance-tested to one meter.

Available in Coyote, the Sidewinder Boot has an MSRP of $45.00, and includes Streamlight’s Limited Lifetime Warranty.

In essence, the Sidewinder Boot is a tiny, ultra-long-lasting utility lamp designed for soldiers and professionals in need of limited, but crucial illumination.

And with a price tag of around $50, anyone can afford it. Especially impressive is the staggering 90 hours of run time on the low setting.

That feature alone would make the Sidewinder Boot the perfect survival lamp or camping lamp.

The Streamlight Sidewinder Boot should be available now. For more information, visit www.Streamlight.com .

The shift to an almost-standardized kit in countries that have less-than-impressive funding (or in the case that inspired this piece: minimal funding) has been a relatively new phenomenon. The world’s specialized units have rushed to share an appearance with what is commonly considered the industry standard: the United States’ robust cadre of SOF operators.

One of the units that has enthusiasts and professionals scratching their head lately is the Syrian Defense Force’s Yekîneyên Antî Teror, or “YAT.”

It is a unit that is still shrouded in considerable secrecy due to the nature of its origins, comprised mostly of senior YPG and YPJ fighters who fight for a free Rojava (Syrian Kurdish state) — very different from the Iraqi Kurdish Peshmerga fighters most are familiar with.

Besides the differences in political, societal, and economic principles that define the two groups of Kurds, the YAT is different because it is possibly trained and equipped by US intelligence community personnel, in addition to American SOF trainers.

Prior to 2019, the YAT was trained and equipped by United States Army Special Forces, commonly referred to as Green Berets. The world’s foremost experts in guerrilla and unconventional warfare, these teams linked up with Kurdish forces in Northern Syria in early 2016.

The equipment pictured is unique, especially when compared to the roughly three dozen other SDF elements equipped by SF teams. Instead of the budget body armor and off-the-shelf uniforms fielded for traditional SDF units, YAT members could be seen wearing a derivative of the Eagle Industries kit, SOCOM’s standard during the early years of the Global War on Terror.

Like many US SOF-led partner forces, YAT members were armed with Kalashnikov rifles and various Soviet-era sidearms.

However, a recent photo has emerged of a newly outfitted YAT — one that paints a clearer picture of their specialized role in their fight against ISIS and Turkey, and hints at their possible connection to the IC.

The military operates under Title 10 authorities which are far more transparent and accounted for than the Title 50 authorities that the intelligence community operates under. Title 10 train-and-equip programs typically utilize gear and kit that provide a semblance of deniability, but recent open source information shows modernized, western-influenced kit and gear.

Another YAT fighter, this time with another US-supplied weapon, M249. pic.twitter.com/ujq7yt8c5A

— Cᴀʟɪʙʀᴇ Oʙsᴄᴜʀᴀ (@CalibreObscura) December 27, 2019

The above pictured kit appears to be a US-made Crye precision Jumpable Plate Carrier with High Speed Gear’s suite of pouches. The addition of any helmets is unusual, as partner forces aren’t typically issued any.

However, the YAT operative runs a “commando cut”, usually reserved for special operations units that operate a communications package with headset.

He carries a Mk 17 produced by Sword International, a high-end manufacturer of precision rifles modeled after the AR-10 chambered in 7.62×51 mm or 6.5 Creedmoor. Atop it sits a Steiner T5Xi 3-15×50 scope, a favorite of European SOF units for medium range shooting.

Even the magazines are commercial made — another commonality with American SOF favoring commercially available magazines over the STANAG magazines that are found throughout the United States military.

Even more shocking is another recently released photograph of a YAT fighter who has a night optic device mount latched onto her helmet’s shroud. The addition of night vision capabilities is a testament to the fact that the YAT is a more autonomous special operations unit than just a mere well-equipped partner force.

The YAT operative in this picture also wears western gear and carries what appears to be a modernized US-supplied M249 Squad Automatic Weapon. While a few legacy models lurk in the region’s black markets, they don’t tend to have integrated Picatinny rails on the handguard.

While it’s fun to comb the feeds of open source intelligence journeymen to see the latest and greatest tech and kit being fielded in combat zones, it’s important to realize that there’s often a “why” attached to it all.

So, while the milsim fans and Airsoft players will gain some inspiration, there’s a myriad of questions attached to something as innocuous as an Instagram cool-guy pic.

Nicholas Guy is a United States Special Forces soldier with 19th Special Forces Group and a financial intelligence analyst with a large bank. Previously, he was with 5th Special Forces Group.

If you’ve heard it once, you’ve heard it a million times.

“Hydrate or die.”

(Isn’t that a slogan for some company somewhere?)

And it’s true. The human body is 60 percent water. You stop drinking, you’ve got about 10 days before your body turns off — no food, and you’ve got more than a week.

So drink up and drink often.

But what’s even worse is that your body will dehydrate itself if you drink contaminated water. Getting Giardiasis or E-Coli from water pulled out of a stream or puddle can result in serious intestinal problems that can kill.

So if the SHTF or you’re out in the field on an op, how do you fill up your hydration bladder or bottle with the water around you and be assured it’s safe?

You can go old school and drop some bleach into your water. You can carry heavy bottles with purified water. Or you can use an off-the-shelf filtration system that’s light, durable and functional on just about any patch of pond scum you come upon.

That’s where companies like Survival Filter come in.

The technology for portable, and long-term reusable water filters has progressed immensely over the years. The sheer number of gallons of water they can treat, the reusability of the filters and the direct-to-mouth versatility make this crucial survival tool cheap and easy to buy and carry.

We tested out the Survival Filter Squeeze water filter and Filter Bottle at this year’s SHOT Show in Las Vegas and used a sample of the Filter Bottle for a week afterward and came away pretty impressed.

Specifications:

Active Filtration bottle —

• 99.99% filtration removal of bacteria, parasites, VOC (volatile organic compounds) and toxic chemicals, heavy metals, unpleasant taste and odors
• Squeeze 900mL of clean water in 30 seconds
• Replaces 426 single-use disposable water bottles
• 100 gal / 575 refills capacity when filtering tap water or 25 gal / 145 refills capacity when filtering lakes, rivers, streams and natural bodies of water

Squeeze Water Filter —

• Removal 99.999% of Protozoa (Cryptosporidium, Giardia and Parasites) Log 5
• Removal 99.999% of tested virus (Phi X-174), Staph and bacteria
• 99.5% Mercury and 93% lead removal
• Flow Rate of 400ml (13.5oz) per minute

Luckily, Survival Filter options are affordable and easy to purchase on their website at just about $40 for either the Squeeze filter or Active Filtration bottle. So, you can easily stock up your EDC kit, bug out bags and survival stash.

Make sure you always have an option to hydrate no matter where you are — because we’re all basically made of water, right? Click “Buy Now” below if you want to have clean water wherever.

Sightline Media Group, LLC writes about products and services to help our readers navigate when shopping online. Sightline Media Group, LLC may receive a share of revenue from our affiliate partners if you purchase products or contract services through our links.

The lesson, researchers said, is that more studies on simple materiel or design tweaks, like a crest atop the helmet or a wider brim, could curtail mild blast-induced brain trauma among troops.

The study compared the protective effect of historical and current combat helmets, as well as the impact of a bare head with no helmet, against shock waves. Researchers placed helmets on crash test dummies’ heads and necks and lined up a shock tube that simulated a blast over the crown of the head. Various shock waves replicating historical artillery shells were then generated.

The French Adrian helmet, developed in 1915, had the lowest risk for moderate brain bleeding — even less than contemporary American helmets. But all helmets provided a five-to-tenfold reduction in risk for moderate brain bleeding, according to a university news release.

“The result is intriguing because the French helmet was manufactured using similar materials as its German and British counterparts, and even had a thinner wall,” Joost Op ‘t Eynde, a biomedical engineering doctoral candidate at Duke, said in the release. “The main difference is that the French helmet had a crest on top of its crown. While it was designed to deflect shrapnel, this feature might also be deflecting shock waves.”

Helmets tested also included the American and British Brodie design, the German Stahlhelm and the U.S. military’s Advanced Combat Helmet, which came into use in the mid-2000s. The study didn’t look at the Ops-Core high-cut style helmet worn by special operations forces, though.

Blast trauma has never been a key concern of helmet design, according to the Duke study. Many early helmets were made to protect against shrapnel on the rapidly industrializing battlefields of early 20th century Europe. And even though modern variants prioritize protecting troops’ brains from ballistic and blunt trauma, the shock wave isn’t the key focus.

“No current fielded helmet system has been specifically designed for blast protection, though careful studies suggest that modern helmets have a degree of blast protective effects,” the Duke researchers wrote.

When an artillery round explodes, it releases a shock wave that is known as the “primary blast.” The projectiles that launch from the explosion are the “secondary blast.”

“Only in recent years has the threat of direct blast wave impingement on the head — separate from penetrating trauma — been appreciated,” researchers added.

Soldiers exposed to artillery barrages in the trenches of World War I would often be sent to field hospitals where medical practitioners could find no obvious sings of external trauma.

The term “shell shock” was coined to describe a slew of symptoms doctors observed among soldiers at the time, according to the study. But the issue is largely understood today to have been a combination of traumatic brain injuries and psychological distress.

The Duke researchers noted that in the many conflicts the U.S. military engaged since World War I, there has been a growing trend of casualties caused by explosions.

The researchers cited other studies, which showed that 78 percent of all injuries in the Iraq War between 2001 and 2005 were the result of explosions. And a 2012 study published in the American Journal of Preventative Medicine found that during the Iraq and Afghanistan conflicts, more than 65 percent of TBIs were associated with an explosion.