SOG STEEL FLASHBACK4
11
FORCE ON FORCE TRAINING
STRIKER-FIRED AUTOPISTOLS
ESCORT'S
HOME DEFENSE TACTICAL 12 GA
SOCIAL MEDIA DANGERS
MILTAC ALPHA 5.56mm DANIEL DEFENSE 5.56mm
11 CASE REPORTS
BILLet-AR Lightweight shown with a Trijicon TR24 AccuPoint 1-4x scope and Viridian X5L laser/light
+9
RETENTION HOLSTERS FEB/MAR 2015
ACTIVE SHOOTER RESPONSES
WILSON COMBAT'S
FIRST 7.62x51
tactical-life.com
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12
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See all the Windham Weaponry Rifles, Parts & Accessories at: www.windhamweaponry.com Made In
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The U.S.A.
FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT
GUEST EDITORIAL
IN DEFENSE OF
STOP & FRISK How this prevention tactic has helped reduce NYC’s crime rates!
D
aquan Breland and Daquan Wright, both alleged gang members, stood on a street corner in the Brownsville section of Brooklyn on a Sunday in September 2013. They weren’t just hanging out—they were looking for a target. Anthony Hennis, a reputed Crips member and thug, had just picked up his one-year-old son, Antiq, and placed him in a stroller for a short walk down the street to visit Hennis’ grandmother. When Breland and Wright saw the elder Hennis, witnesses say Wright handed a gun to Breland, who fired. Four shots rang out, allegedly aimed at the father, but the poor marksman missed and killed the one-year-old Antiq. The boy was hit in the face, taking the bullet meant for his alleged criminal father. Antiq was the 16th child under the age of six to be shot and killed in New York City since mid-May of 2013. A few weeks prior, U.S. District Court Judge Shira A. Scheindlin ruled on a class-action lawsuit that New York City’s “stop and frisk” tactics violated the Fourth and Fourteenth Amendment rights of the plaintiffs. It should be noted that the city disputed the plaintiff’s fact patterns, but regardless, the city was ordered to stop the tactic as its methods were placed under review. The judge ruled, in essence, that the tactic should be used in a “neutral/non-biased” manner. The NYPD, which has steadily worked to drop crime to record-low levels, said that the policy—in which police stop, question and frisk people they consider suspicious—is used to deter crime. It can be argued that had police stopped, questioned and frisked Breland and Wright before the shooting, it would have deterred a crime.
Crime Prevention Mayor Bloomberg said the policy was one of a number of programs that helped the city’s murder rate drop. In fact, it’s 50 percent below the rate when he took office nearly 12 years ago. Bloomberg said, “That has nothing to do with, however, where we stop people. We go to where the reports of crime are. Those unfortunately happen to be poor neighborhoods and minority neighborhoods. But that’s not the original objective or the intent or how we get there. We get there when there’s a crime reported, and we will continue to do that.” The parties to the lawsuit, of course, disagree and want law enforcement work conducted in a neutral manner everywhere and want peoples rights protected. On its face, that seems great—if crime occurred at the same levels everywhere. Most would argue, though, that stopping, questioning and frisking people in Times Square will not curb gun violence in the most violent places in New York City or elsewhere. Despite the disproportionate crime levels in violent areas, where police are desperately needed, the groups suing would apparently rather see “neutral” enforcement while violence-plagued areas continually suffer from gangs and thugs. Law enforcement’s job is to protect people’s rights—including one-year-olds like Antiq. They do so by finding and apprehending would-be killers like Breland and Wright before they commit a crime. But criminals aren’t stupid, and they know what the “rules” are and exploit them to commit crime. For police, one of their greatest assets is experience. The experience of either growing up in an area they work in, or working those streets for years. That experience gives them a grasp of criminal conduct that others can’t pick up on. Some of that conduct is subtle—the way someone is walking (indicative of carrying a gun), their actions on a street corner, etc. Those experiences are sometimes tough to articulate and some may wrongly view it through the prism of “unfair” law enforcement. Unfortunately, as Bloomberg said, crimes and specifically violent crimes disproportionately occur in crime-ridden areas. So what are the police and elected leaders to do? Adopt a “neutral” wait-and-see approach and just continue to respond to murders like Antiq’s? That tactic is a proven failure, and most people in those communities would then criticize the police for not caring or dedicating enough resources to their community to curb crime. NYPD Commissioner Raymond Kelly said the motive for the shooting is still unclear, and that the boy’s father was not cooperating with the investigation. The lesson? Monday-morning quarterbacking a proven tactic like “stop, question and if suspicious frisk” only does two things: It empowers the criminals and continues to make children like Antiq pay for the sins of their parents.
4 GUNS & WEAPONS FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT • FEB/MAR 2015
Jeff Rose photo
By Donald J. Mihalek
®
Publisher Stanley R. Harris Executive Publisher Virginia Commander Group Publisher Shirley Steffen Associate Publisher Karin Levine Managing Editor Linas Cernauskas Associate Editor Cara Donaldson Assistant Editor Greg Lickenbrock Art Director James Allocca Cover Design Socrates Gomez Contributors Massad Ayoob, David Bahde, William Bell, Rob Garrett, Brian Haughton, Richard Johnson, Fred Mastison, Donald J. Mihalek, D.K. Pridgen, Tim Stetzer, Peter Suciu, Chad Thompson, Sean Utley, Scott W. Wagner, Steve Woods Production Director Spiro Maroulis Director Digital Kim Shay Circulation Director Tim Hannon Social Media Director Claudia Bircu Advertising Production Manager Danielle Correa Advertising Representative Leticia Henry Advertising Coordinator Emily Lee Web Coordinator Nicole Barron
Advertising Offices:
Harris Publications, Inc. Harris Tactical Group 1115 Broadway, New York, NY 10010 Phone: 212-807-7100; Fax: 212-463-9958 General Information: tactical-life.com •
[email protected] For subscriptions, single copies, back issues, or gift orders, please call us at 800-866-2886. TO THE READERS: Be advised that there may be products represented in this magazine as to which sale, possession or interstate transportation thereof may be restricted, prohibited or subject to special licensing requirements. Prospective purchasers should consult the local law enforcement authorities in their areas. All of the information in this magazine is based upon the personal experience of individuals who may be using specific tools, products, equipment and components under particular conditions and circumstances, some or all of which may not be reported in the particular article and which this magazine has not otherwise verified. Nothing herein is intended to constitute a manual for the use of any product or the carrying out of any procedure or process. This magazine and its officers and employees accept no responsibility for any liability, injuries or damages arising out of any person’s attempt to rely upon any information contained herein. GUNS & WEAPONS FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT® (ISSN-10582975) is published six times per year by Harris Publications, Inc., 1115 Broadway, New York, New York 10010. Single copy price: $5.99 in U.S.A.; $6.99 in Canada. Submissions of manuscripts, illustrations and/or photographs must be accompanied by a stamped, self-addressed envelope. The publisher assumes no responsibility for unsolicited material. Copyright © 2014 by Harris Publications, Inc. All rights reserved under International and Pan American Copyright Conventions. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission of the publisher is strictly prohibited. Printed in U.S.A.
GUNS-WEAPONS.com
FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT
®
CONTENTS
February/March 2015 /// Volume 27 Number 2 tactical-life.com /// guns-weapons.com
38
DANIEL DEFENSE M4V9LW 5.56mm
74
SMITH & WESSON M&P R8
COLUMNS
FEATURES ON THE COVER
18 WILSON COMBAT BILLET-AR LIGHTWEIGHT 7.62mm By Rob Garrett Big-bore power in a fast-handling package built for LE duty!
7 Guest Editorial In Defense Of Stop And Frisk
8 First Responder Social Media Dangers—11 Case Reports
26 LWRCI SIX8 SBR By David Bahde Compact piston-driven enforcer offers 6.8 SPC power and extreme-duty reliability.
38 DANIEL DEFENSE M4V9LW 5.56mm By Rob Garrett Tier One rifle delivers quick follow-up shots in a lightweight, fast-handling package.
46 CZ P-09 9mm By Chad Thompson Next-gen duty enforcer boasting 19+1 rounds of accurate 9mm firepower!
52 MILTAC INDUSTRIES ALPHA 5.56mm By D.K. Pridgen Uncompromising patrol carbine with can’t-fail reliability!
74 SMITH & WESSON M&P R8 By William Bell Eight-shot .357 Mag packed with duty-ready 21st century enhancements.
14 Street Smarts Active-Shooter Takedowns
34 Basic Training ATK’s Force On Force Firestorm
70 Everyday Heroes A Life Of Service
80 Elite Training Tripwire Operations Groups
82 New Products New Guns And Gear That Caught Our Eye
90 Patrol Steel SOG Flashback Defender
102 Classified Ads Products And Services Of Interest
84 ESCORT TACTICAL 12 GA. By D.K. Pridgen Fast-handling Home Defense Tactical shotgun with semi-auto speed and unstoppable reliability.
94 MOSSBERG MVP PATROL 7.62mm By Scott W. Wagner Ultra-versatile bolt action can utilize AR- and M14-style magazines.
104 Busted! Illeagal Importers
106
SO G ST EE L FL AS HB
Police Stories Car Shootout/Suicide By Cop
11
AC K4
STRIKER-F AUTOPIS IRED TOLS
ESCORT
FORC E ON FORC E TRAI NING
'S
HOME DEF TACTICAL ENSE 12 GA
MILTAC ALPHA 5.56mm
ON THE COVER
SOCIAL MED DANGERIA S 11
DANIEL DEFENSE 5.56mm
Wilson Combat BILLet-AR Lightweight 7.62mm by Steve Woods
CASE REPORTS
BILLet-AR Lightweight shown with a Trijicon TR24 AccuPoint 1-4x and Viridian X5L scope laser/light
LWRCI 6.8 SPC SBR
+9
WI LS ON
RETE NTIO HOLS TERSN
FEB/MAR
$5.99
tactical-life.com
ACTIVE SHOOTER RESPONSES
FIRST 7.62COxMB5AT1'S BIG BOR E PROTE C
Printed in USA
6 GUNS & WEAPONS FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT • FEB/MAR 2015
2015
12
NEW GEAR
FROM IACP
CZ-USA P-09 9mm 19+1 FIREPOWER
T
3S&W .357 MAGO R S DISPLAY UNTIL MARCH 16, 2015
MOSSBERG'S MVP
7.62mm4
IMGA TX4 CX4
12 DUTY READY
11 STRIKER-FIRED PISTOLS
58 ON THE BELT
9 RETENTION HOLSTERS
62 NEWEST GUNS & GEAR FROM IACP 12 OF THE BEST
NEW L.E. PRODUCTS from the International Association of Chiefs of Police expo. By Fred Mastison
GUNS-WEAPONS.com
FEB/MAR 2015 • GUNS & WEAPONS FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT 7
FIRST RESPONDER BY MASSAD AYOOB
SOCIAL MEDIA DANGERS
One wrong post can wreck your law enforcement career! We all know of cases in which smart investigators have collared crooks because the lawbreakers were arrogant enough to brag about their crimes and their gang-banging on social media sites, such as Facebook. We have to remember, though, that social media is a sword that cuts in two directions. An amazing number of police officers have caused grief for themselves with comments they’ve made on Facebook. Case One: In December of 2011, The Huffington Post wrote that members of the controversial Facebook group “No More West Indian Day Parade
Detail,” many of whom were confirmed to be NYPD officers, “spouted racially charged comments at parade-goers, calling them ‘animals’ and ‘savages,’” and suggested “cops let the revelers ‘kill each other.’” Those officers have discovered that posting on Facebook was not a good career move. Reporters check Facebook. Case Two: In the Southwest, an LEO involved in a line-ofduty shooting found out just how much say the news media organizations can make when they discovered that he listed his occupation on Facebook as “human waste disposal.” Defense lawyers check Facebook. Case Three: In an Eastern seaboard state, an officer posted on Facebook that his mood was “devious” and that he was
“
An amazing number of police officers have caused grief for themselves with comments they’ve made on Facebook.
“
8 GUNS & WEAPONS FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT • FEB/MAR 2015
watching the rogue cop movie Training Day to “brush up on proper police procedure.” The defense lawyer for a suspect he arrested for illegal possession of a weapon got hold of that and brought it up in court. It helped to create enough reasonable doubt that the jury acquitted the suspect. Injudicious posting can get officers in trouble. Case Four: In a Southern community, a municipal officer drove his patrol car to the site of a charity car wash, where the staff consisted of attractive, bikini-clad women. The patrolman snapped a photo of the ladies on the hood of his department vehicle. He put the picture on his Facebook page—and was fired for it. When I lost track of the case, one of the volunteer carwashers, a female deputy, was in trouble with her sheriff over the matter. Case Five: A lawyer hated by some local cops committed suicide. An officer posted on his
Facebook page that he hoped this individual is burning in hell. No one on any side of the legal profession was pleased with this, nor was the media. Nor was the department’s command staff when the officer’s posting went public.
INSIDE JOB
Remember, Internal Affairs checks out Facebook. Case Six: A state trooper posted on Facebook that he was working to keep the streets clean of trash. A Facebook friend asked him how he could be working when he was on Facebook. And according to a newspaper piece critical of the trooper, his supervisors were wondering the same thing, because the comment was posted while he was on duty, triggering an Internal Affairs investigation. Your supervisors may read Facebook. Case Seven: In the South, a subordinate cussed out a supervisor on Facebook. The supervisor, of course, read the Facebook post, and another negative career move was memorialized. Others may throw you into the social media spotlight. Case Eight: An Eastern cop with probable cause pulled over a Ferrari and found a celebrity behind the wheel. Instead of writing a summons, he asked for the driver’s autograph and let him off. Apparently unknown to the officer, the incident was being surreptitiously taped by a member of the celebrity’s entourage. That ended up circulating in social media—and yes, another policeman ended up being caught in the spotlight. Family members can get you in trouble on Facebook. Case Nine: A friend retired from the NYPD reported a young teenager in Long Island who went onto social media with bizarre threats of extreme violence. Police showed up with a warrant, seizing every firearm in the family home. It took
Big Stock photo
FEB/MAR 2015 • GUNS & WEAPONS FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT 9
SOCIAL MEDIA DANGERS
No matter how slow the shift, as an officer you shouldn’t be browsing social media sites or posting anything online during duty hours.
time and legal fees for the kid’s dad to get his gun collection back. Case Ten: A Midwestern police chief with many applicants for a single patrolman’s opening took one of the semifinalists into his office. “Sit at my desk,” he told the candidate. “Open your Facebook account. Then, if you don’t mind, let me sit there and go through it.” If the candidate minded, the chief would respect his wishes and drop the request—and also drop the candidate from the list of semifinalists for the position at his department. Never posting on Facebook means never having to say you’re sorry. Case Eleven: A California cop with no use for private citizens “open
carrying” handguns posted on Facebook that all such people should be proned out at the point of a patrol rifle and shot if they make a furtive movement. This went virally public, bringing a firestorm of complaints about him to his department, many demanding that he be fired. A man purported to be the author later wrote, “Sometimes sarcastic or off-color humor should best be kept in the confines of those you can confide in. I forgot the golden rule of who’s watching and listening. But as a person I did not mean any harm to anyone. Those who know me know my form of humor— after all I’m a former Marine!”
REALISTICALLY SPEAKING
Like it or not, fair or not, law enforcement is held to higher standards of behavior than almost any other profession. The ACLU is involved in Case One on behalf of the officers; the organization considers it an important First Amendment issue. The wise officer uses common sense if he or she posts on social media. Photos depicting drinking or partying or negative comments about the job and one’s supervisors and coworkers are simply not good career-builders. This is an occupation that draws alphas, and cops tend to be outspoken. Being outspoken is a good trait in some settings but not in others. There is no such thing as “conduct unbecoming an insurance man”
10 GUNS & WEAPONS FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT • FEB/MAR 2015
or “conduct unbecoming an executive assistant” in the private sector, but like it or not, “conduct unbecoming a police officer” is still a very real concept and punishable offense. As a general rule, the more discreet one is about one’s private life, the better. This may be truer today than ever, with the rise of cop-hater mentality and “hate the police” organizations and blogs. Maintaining confidentiality is essential. Talking publicly about confidential investigations or posting about personality traits of certain identifiable individuals one encounters in the course of police work can result in lost credibility, lost cases and lost careers. When I first donned my badge and gun in the early 1970s in New Hampshire, the state where Grace Metalious’ novel Peyton Place was set, I learned that every town everywhere is Peyton Place. The police become the keepers of the citizenry’s embarrassing secrets. They will investigate those things, and they will testify about them in courts of law, but they will not discuss them outside the job until matters have been adjudicated—and sometimes, not even then. This is destined to be a police union issue revolving around members’ First Amendment rights. For now, the consensus among experienced street cops and police management alike is to exercise extreme discretion when posting on social media websites.
GUNS-WEAPONS.com
ROUNDUP BY RICHARD JOHNSON
11 STRIKER-FIRED PISTOLS Duty and backup handguns ready to deliver reliable stopping power!
Photo Courtesy Heckler & Koch
Modern striker-fired pistols have refined the combat handgun. They tend to be very reliable and easy-shooting pistols that are every bit as durable as traditional hammer-fired pistols. From the cops patrolling the toughest part of the city to the citizen carrying concealed for self-defense, these guns have become the standard by which others are judged. Striker-fired pistols can be had in a variety of forms, all designed for different purposes. Some are thin and light for concealed carry, while others are full-sized pistols intended for law enforcement and military applications. Fortunately, there is a gun for virtually every need. The following handguns are some of the top striker-fired pistols on the market today.
GLOCK 19 GEN4
FN FNS-9
Developed by FN as a service pistol for law enforcement, the polymerframed FNS-9 features a double-action trigger and options for manual and nonmanual safeties. Standard magazines hold 17 rounds of 9mm ammunition, and night sights are available as an option. For more information, visit fnhusa.com or call 703-288-3500.
Considered by some to be the perfect size for both concealed carry and combat duties, the G19 pistol is a 9mm handgun that carries 15+1 rounds in its standard configuration. The Gen4 update comes with interchangeable backstraps, improved grip texturing, a dual recoil spring assembly to help mitigate recoil and an enlarged, reversible magazine release. For more information, visit us.glock.com or call 770-4321202.
HECKLER & KOCH VP9
GLOCK 22 GEN4
Perhaps carried by more law enforcement officers than any other single handgun, the G22 Gen4 is a full-sized pistol chambered in .40 S&W. These 25.59-ounce guns hold 15 rounds in a standard magazine and can swap backstraps to help fit shooters of various hand sizes. For more information, visit us.glock.com or call 770-432-1202.
The newest gun on this list, the VP9 is the latest strikerfired pistol from Heckler & Koch. With more than 40 years of technological development since the introduction of HK’s first striker-fired pistol, the VP9 is everything a modern combat pistol should be. A duty-sized 9mm gun, it features interchangeable grip side panels and backstraps, a very smooth trigger and a 15+1 capacity. For more information, visit hk-usa.com or call 706568-1906.
RUGER SR9
The SR9 pistol from Sturm, Ruger & Company has earned a reputation for being an easy-shooting and reliable design. Made in the U.S.A., the 9mm pistol holds 17 rounds in the magazine. Its MSRP is $529 with a black nitride or brushed stainless finish. For more information, visit ruger.com.
Photos Courtesy Manufacturers
12 GUNS & WEAPONS FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT • FEB/MAR 2015
GUNS-WEAPONS.com
SMITH & WESSON M&P SERIES
SIG SAUER P320
Sig Sauer is currently offering two models of the striker-fired P320—the Full Size and Carry—and users can change their calibers and switch between the grip frames for a better hand fit. Out of the box, the P320 Full Size offers a 17-round capacity in 9mm and 14-round capacities in .357 SIG and .40 S&W, with .45 ACP on the way. This model has a 4.7-inch barrel and SIGLITE night sights. For more information, visit sigsauer.com or call 603-610-3000.
M&P stands for Military & Police, and Smith & Wesson has been satisfying these markets for decades. Both the full-size and compact M&P striker-fired handguns use a polymer frame with a stainless steel chassis for durability. Smith & Wesson offers its M&P semi-autos in 9mm, .40 S&W, .357 SIG and .45 ACP. Models are available with and without thumb safeties. The standard M&P40 has a 15+1 capacity. For more information, visit smith-wesson.com or call 800-3310852.
SPRINGFIELD ARMORY XD M 4.5
SMITH & WESSON M&P SHIELD
Thin and compact, the M&P Shield from Smith & Wesson offers duty-caliber performance in a lightweight package. Shield pistols are available in both 9mm and .40 S&W, and they can be had with or without a thumb safety. For more information, visit smith-wesson.com or call 800-331-0852.
WALTHER PPQ M2
The M2 is an updated version of the very popular Walther PPQ line of striker-fired handguns. Available in 9mm and .40 S&W, the M2 added a reversible, button-style magazine release. Walther pistols are highly regarded for their light, smooth trigger pulls. For more information, visit waltherarms. com or call 479-242-8500.
A full-size fighting handgun, the Springfield Armory XDM 4.5 is perfect for law enforcement and home protection. It has adjustable backstraps and a match-grade, 4.5-inch barrel. These polymer-framed pistols are available in 9mm, .40 S&W and .45 ACP. For more information, visit springfield-armory.com or call 800-680-6866.
SPRINGFIELD ARMORY XD-S 3.3
Very compact, the XD-S pistols have found favor with both police officers needing a backup gun and armed citizens looking for the ultimate CCW handgun. Springfield Armory makes the striker-fired XD-S 3.3 in both 9mm and .45 ACP. The company also offers models with 4-inch barrels. For more information, visit springfield-armory. com or call 800-680-6866.
GUNS-WEAPONS.com
FEB/MAR 2015 • GUNS & WEAPONS FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT 13
STREET SMARTS BY SCOTT W. WAGNER
ACTIVE-SHOOTER TAKEDOWNS Tactics to quickly drop a mass-murdering madman when you’re off-duty or in plainclothes!
We spend a lot of time discussing, writing about and training for activeshooter events in our jurisdictions. These activities are tremendously important and have led to a positive evolution of the techniques and strategies involved in stopping or limiting these horrific events. We have gone from waiting for SWAT and treating the situation like a barricade (as was the case in the Columbine incident) with disastrous results, to Quick Unit Action Deployment (QUAD) models that involve forming up a four-officer team immediately upon arrival before SWAT gets there, to the current model of “the first guy there with a rifle goes in.” What is always assumed in these models is that everyone responding will be a uniformed patrol officer. What is not taken into account is the possibility that a plainclothes or off-duty officer will be the first responder. If we happen upon an active-shooter event, or have one unfolding around us, we must take action—there is no other choice. We need to be prepared in advance to take the safest, most effective action that we can.
means everywhere in public where there is no overriding local authority in control that prevents it. For law enforcement officers, those places are generally few and far between, but they do exist, so be aware of them. Otherwise, when I say everywhere, I mean everywhere. That includes church—a place where up until 10 years ago or so, I didn’t feel the need to carry. There was a time when even the worst of criminals would not dare offend in a church sanctuary—which is no longer true. Atrocities will be committed anywhere. While the first rule of a gunfight is to have a gun or guns, there are a few questions that need
PACKING HEAT
Our ability to respond is impossible if we don’t faithfully carry off-duty firearms—and that
14 GUNS & WEAPONS FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT • FEB/MAR 2015
Although responding LEOs may be in plain clothes of various sorts, team response tactics are the same as those employed by uniformed LEOS.
GUNS-WEAPONS.com
If you’re a plainclothes officer, keep an AR-15 in your vehicle’s trunk to effectively stop an active shooter and their reign of terror.
to be answered about those guns. First, how competent are you with that gun or guns? Have you practiced with them regularly, and at what distances? Can you hit what you are shooting at (in this case, let’s say a human silhouette target) at extended ranges? Can you hit at 50 feet, 25 yards, 50 yards or even 100 yards with your pistol? Maximum-range pistol shooting is not only possible with practice, but it may be necessary if you have to interdict an active shooter armed with only a handgun. Next, what kind of gun or guns do you carry, or have available to you when you are off-duty or working plainclothes? Micro .380s are great to carry and work well at close ranges. But for most people, getting hits at extended ranges is not only unlikely, but it’s darn near impossible. If you choose to carry a small off-duty handgun rather than a larger compact like a baby Glock or a mid-size gun, you should have a second, more effective gun available to you to backup your primary off-duty gun. In my case, my constant-carry off-duty gun is my Smith & Wesson Model 642 Airweight .38 Special five-shot revolver. I am good with this gun out to 50 yards with five out of five solid hits on the silhouette when fired with both hands and standing. At 100
GUNS-WEAPONS.com
FEB/MAR 2015 • GUNS & WEAPONS FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT 15
ACTIVE-SHOOTER TAKEDOWNS
Long hallways or open areas such as parking lots are most effectively controlled by officers armed with AR-15 rifles instead of just handguns.
yards, due to the white-on-white fixed sights, that drops to one or two hits out of five just on the paper. In my book, that takes the Model 642 out of the picture as a primary active-shooter response arm unless I find myself suddenly engulfed in an active-shooter incident. I have long kept an AR-15—specifically a Del-Ton Alpha 220H rifle—secured in the back of my personal pickup truck as my primary active-shooter response arm. I feel that the rifle’s heavy, 20-inch barrel offers better accuracy with iron sights due to the longer sight radius and increases the effectiveness of the 5.56mm NATO round. A lot of my fellow officers also carry some variation of the AR-15 in their vehicles at all times. There are alternatives to the AR if your agency is one of the few that still does not authorize rifles. Twelve gauge shotguns—pump or auto—when equipped with rifle sights or a capable optic can be quite effective out to 75 or 100 yards when used with rifled slugs. Certainly, being hit with a 1-ounce hunk of lead will certainly get (Please turn to page 99) 16 GUNS & WEAPONS FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT • FEB/MAR 2015
GUNS-WEAPONS.com
WILSON GUN TEST
BILLET-AR LIGHT W
By Rob Garrett • Photos by Steve Woods
Bill Wilson has been building guns for close to 40 years. His “hobby” of customizing production 1911s for competitive use has grown into the legendary company, Wilson Combat.
Given the success of Wilson Com-
without compromising strength.
bat’s AR series, it was only a matter of
The lower receiver features recesses
time until the company introduced an
on both sides of the magazine well that
AR in .308/7.62mm NATO. According
reduce weight while providing a raised
to the company’s website, Bill is quoted
guard around the magazine release
as saying, “I have never been a fan of
and bolt stop. As with all Wilson Com-
Bill now makes a full line of custom-
the .308-platform AR due to weight and
bat BILLet lowers, the 7.62mm receiver
built 1911s using his own frames,
a lot of square edges on the ones I’ve
features a flared magazine well and an
slides and custom parts. In addition,
handled. I believe the Wilson Combat
integral triggerguard. My test rifle was
Wilson’s Bullet-Proof parts are the
design team has resolved these issues
equipped with a Wilson Combat Tactical
choice of many custom gunsmiths and
and produced an extremely user-
Trigger Unit (TTU) that broke cleanly at
shops. Bill expanded his production
friendly carbine.” Having just finished
3.63 pounds with minimal overtravel. A
to include modifying the Remington
evaluating one of the first 7.62mm
Bravo Company Gunfighter pistol grip
870 shotgun and later producing his
carbines, officially known as the Wilson
provided a comfortable purchase on the
own line of AR-style rifles. I have had
Combat BILLet-AR Lightweight, I have
rifle. The BILLet-AR Lightweight comes
the privilege of evaluating several
to agree with his assessment.
with a Lancer magazine and accepts
Wilson ARs. These include the Paul Howe Tactical Carbine, rifles in 300
polymer or metal SR-25-pattern maga-
GUN DETAILS The new 7.62mm carbine utilizes
Blackout, .458 SOCOM and Wilson’s
zines. A Wilson/Rogers Super-Stoc is standard on all Wilson ARs. The
proprietary cartridge, the 7.62x40 WT.
Wilson’s BILLet-AR receivers, which
Super-Stoc features a cam-
Every rifle proved to be as reliable and
are machined in-house from 7075-
lock system that locks the butt-
well built as Wilson’s 1911s.
T6 aluminum for a lightweight design
stock and removes any play.
18 GUNS & WEAPONS FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT • FEB/MAR 2015
COMBAT T WEIGHT mm 7.62
Big-bore power in a fast-handling package built for LE duty!
Wilson Combat’s new BILLet-AR Lightweight earns its name while delivering 7.62mm power. Shown with a Trijicon TR24 AccuPoint 1-4x scope.
FEB/MAR 2015 • GUNS & WEAPONS FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT 19
WILSON COMBAT 7.62mm LEOs can configure the Wilson TRIM rail as needed with Picatinny rail sections.
The BCM Gunfighter pistol grip provides a comfortable grip and helps absorb some of the 7.62mm NATO felt recoil.
The BILLet lower features a flared mag well and an integral triggerguard. Note the clean lines on both of the receivers.
The Super-Stoc weighs only 7.3 ounces and is designed to pass the 36-inch drop test with a fully loaded rifle. As with the lower receiver, the BILLet upper receiver is profiled to eliminate any sharp edges. The angled flats are cleanly machined, the lines are perfect and the upper mates precisely with the lower receiver. The bolt and bolt carrier are finished in Robar NP3 for enhanced reliability and ease of maintenance. The Wilson Tactical Rail Interface Modular, or TRIM, is a lightweight, free-floating rail system that is machined from a 6061-T6 aluminum extrusion. The
20 GUNS & WEAPONS FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT • FEB/MAR 2015
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WILSON COMBAT BILLET-AR LIGHTWEIGHT rail features threaded holes along the nine, three, and six o’clock positions that allow the user to install Picatinny rail panels as needed. Ample cooling holes reduce weight and increase airflow around the barrel. My test rifle also came equipped with Wilson’s flipup sights. The front sight is spring loaded and raised by depressing the activation button on the side. The front sight tower has a standard post and A2 wings while the rear sight features the CSAT aperture designed by Paul Howe. At the heart of every Wilson Combat firearm is a quality match barrel. My test rifle was set up with a 14.75-inch, fluted barrel with a pinned Accu-Tac flash suppressor that brings the overall length to 16.25 inches. This allows the BILLet-AR
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SPECIFICATIONS
PERFORMANCE
Caliber: .308/7.62mm NATO Barrel: 14.75 inches OA Length: 33-36.25 inches Weight: 7.69 pounds Stock: Wilson/Rogers Super-Stoc Sights: None • Finish: Armor-Tuff Action: Direct impingement semi-auto Capacity: 20+1 • MSRP: $2,995
Load
Ruag Swiss P 167 Styx Action Wilson 168 Sierra HPBT Match Wilson 168 Barnes TTSX
Velocity
Accuracy
2,357 2,289 2,277
0.66 1.14 1.47
Bullet weight measured in grains, velocity in fps by chronograph, and accuracy in inches for best five-shot groups at 100 yards.
Lightweight to be as short as possible without falling into the NFA category. Wilson 7.62mm barrels have 1-in-10-inch twist rates, ensuring accuracy with a variety of loads and bullet weights. Other options will include a 14.75-inch barrel with a 10.6-inch TRIM rail as well as an 18-inch barrel with a 14-inch rail. For those who wish to utilize Wilson’s Whisper suppressor, the BILLet-AR Lightweight can be ordered with the Rapid Thread muzzle brake.
Wilson also sent my test rifle with a Trijicon TR24C AccuPoint 1-4x optic. The AccuPoint features a standard duplex crosshair with a center dot that is illuminated by tritium and an adjustable fiber-optic window. Being only 10.3 inches in length and weighing 14.4 ounces, the AccuPoint is ideal for a short carbine. The 0.25-MOA adjustable turrets are easily reset to zero and provide accurate adjustments at all ranges. The Trijicon optic was mounted using Wilson’s
FEB/MAR 2015 • GUNS & WEAPONS FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT 21
WILSON COMBAT 7.62mm
The Super-Stoc features a cam lock that eliminates the play found in standard M4-style collapsible stocks.
Accu-Rizer scope mount. The Accu-Rizer is machined from aluminum extrusion and attaches with a spring-loaded steel locking plate and a large triangle nut. This design is easily detachable while ensuring minimal loss of zero.
RANGE TIME On the range, I zeroed the BILLet-AR Lightweight using Wilson’s 168-grain Sierra HPBT Match ammunition. This load averaged 2,289 fps from the 14.75-inch barrel, with an extreme spread of 60 fps. I found the recoil impulse, while significantly more than a 5.56mm rifle, to be manageable and free from any serious discomfort. Wilson also provided its 168-grain Barnes TTSX load. This famed load features all-copper construction with a polymer tip for positive feeding. The TTSX design is a proven load that provides rapid expansion and deep penetration while retaining 99 percent of its original weight. The TTSX bullet is designed for optimal per-
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The Wilson TTU trigger, combined with the Super-Stoc, made shooting the 7.62mm carbine a real pleasure.
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formance at lower velocities. I also tested one of my favorite 7.62mm loads, Ruag’s Swiss P 167-grain Styx Action ammunition. The Styx Action is a tactical load designed for maximum terminal ballistics and immediate expansion without overpenetration. While designed for law enforcement and military use, I have found the Styx Action to be very effective on Georgia’s whitetail deer.
22 GUNS & WEAPONS FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT • FEB/MAR 2015
After final zeroing, I set up a clean target at 100 yards and got down to business. I will say that shooting sub-MOA groups at 100 yards with a 4x optic proved challenging. However, as I got settled in, the groups got tighter and I saw what the Wilson BILLet-AR Lightweight was capable of. The Ruag Styx Action ammunition produced a five-shot group with three rounds in a single ragged hole. The group measured a clean 0.66 inches, with the three rounds grouping inside of 0.24 inches. The Wilson 168-grain Sierra load produced a group that measured 1.14 inches, discounting a called flyer, while the TTSX group measured 1.47 inches. The Wilson TTU trigger, combined with the SuperStoc, made shooting the 7.62mm carbine a real pleasure.
FINAL NOTES A lot has been written about the shortcomings of the .223/5.56mm NATO cartridge for both military and law enforcement use. While specialty cartridges, such as the 6.8 SPC and the 300 Blackout, have seen limited use, the .308/7.62mm is already in most inventories. The 7.62mm also provides a wider selection of loads that are more readily available. The Wilson BILLetAR Lightweight provides an ideal rifle for both patrol and tactical units. For agencies that already issue an AR platform, the transition to the 7.62mm should be relatively easy. Lighter loads, such as the Hornady 110-grain TAP Urban, provide impressive terminal ballistics while penetrating less than 10 inches in bare gelatin. This makes it ideal for tactical entries where overpenetration is a serious concern. The Wilson TTSX load is well suited to general law enforcement patrol uses. The greater mass of the 7.62mm loads also provides improved barrier performance over the .223/5.56mm. The heavier load
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WILSON COMBAT 7.62mm
TRIJICON VCOG When your life depends on your equipment, it must be simple, rugged and reliable. Real-world conditions can be incredibly hard on weapons and their attachments. Optics are often the most critical part of your rifle, and at the same time, they’re often the most likely point of failure. This kind of failure during a competition will only cost you points or pride, but on the street, it may cost a life. LE deployments require scopes purposebuilt for duty use, and no company has more experience in this arena than The author added the Trijicon AccuPoint in Wilson’s solid Accu-Rizer mount, which is easy to remove without losing your zero.
Trijicon. Building sights for the harsh conditions of battle, Trijicon makes Photos courtesy Trijicon
some of the most dependable optics you can buy. Now the company has introduced the new Variable Combat Optic Gunsight (VCOG), an extremely versatile 1-6x24mm scope. VERSATILE VCOG: Built to Trijicon’s legendary standards for ruggedness, the VCOG can withstand the harshest conditions and abuse. In fact, it’s waterproof to 66 feet. The VCOG also has a built-in mount for installation on Picatinny rails, eliminating the need for rings. The VCOG’s glass is exceptionally clear while its illuminated, bullet-drop/ ranging, first-focal-plane (FFP) reticle is fast and easy to use at any magnification. Designed for use with the Bindon Aiming Concept (BAC), the VCOG is perfect for both-eyesopen shooting, and its magnification range is more than enough for patrol or duty rifles.
The 14.75-inch barrel is fluted for reduced weight, and the Accu-Tac flash suppressor brings its overall length to 16.25 inches.
During testing, the VCOG allowed me to get first-round hits on targets beyond 600 yards. Testing it on my competition rifle and several other guns has yielded almost
Specifications:
also provides superior terminal ballistics when confronting dangerous game. If I were working in Alaska or the northwest, I would want a Wilson 7.62mm carbine in my patrol vehicle. As with traditional ARs, the Wilson 7.62mm will accommodate any accessories, including lights, lasers and night-vision optics. The more time I spent behind the Wilson BILLet-AR Lightweight, the more I came to like both the rifle and the Trijicon AccuPoint. The combination of a red dot and a 1-4x magnified optic make it ideal for law enforcement and tactical use. The only change I would make for a departmentissued rifle would be to use the Rapid Thread brake and Whisper suppressor. Once again, Bill Wilson and the crew at Wilson Combat have raised the bar and produced a rifle that will exceed all expectations. For agencies or officers who are looking for more horsepower from their patrol and tactical rifles, the Wilson BILLet-AR Lightweight 7.62mm is duty ready and up to the task. For more information, visit wilsoncombat.com or call 800-955-4856.
24 GUNS & WEAPONS FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT • FEB/MAR 2015
TRIJICON VCOG Magnification: 1-6X Objective: 24mm OA Length: 10.05 inches Weight: 23.2 ounces Eye Relief: 4 inches (constant) Adjustments: 1 click at 100m = 0.5 inches Adjustment Range: 90 MOA (windage and elevation) Field Of View: 18-3 degrees (95-15.9 feet at 100 yards) Run Time: 700 hours on 4th setting MSRP: $2,800
boring consistency. The reticle is usable at the lowest power setting and allows for solid precision. The VCOG also offers a constant 4 inches of eye relief, which makes it very easy to use the scope from just about any shooting position. In the end, the VCOG may not be the prettiest scope you use, but if your life depends on your optic, it should be your first choice. For more information, visit trijicon.com or call 800-338-0563. —By David Bahde
The VCOG is designed for extreme durability and features superior glass quality.
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This was a BLAST OF A TEST. I hope to get many years of use out of this rifle.
“ LWRCI’s Six8 SBR shown with a U.S. Optics SR-6 scope, a Trijicon RMR, a SureFire Scout light and an OSS suppressor.
LWRCI SIX8 SBR GUN TEST
Compact piston-driven enforcer offers 6.8 SPC power and extreme-duty reliability! By David Bahde
A result of the Enhanced Rifle Cartridge program, the 6.8 SPC was an attempt to deal with the deficiencies of the 5.56mm NATO cartridge.
loads and bullets designed for improved terminal performance. Now 6.8 SPC bullet weights range from 85 to 140 grains. Given the correct magazine, these rifles were reliable—even with very short barrels once piston-driven operating systems entered the fray. While
The overall idea was to approximate 7.62x39mm
it never caught on in the military, the 6.8 SPC is still
ballistics with improved accuracy, reliable opera-
viable for law enforcement operations.
tion in an AR-platform rifle and terminal performance
LWRC International has always led the way in this
out to 500 meters. The result was the 6.8 Remington
caliber, making the company the best choice when Saudi
Special Purpose Cartridge (SPC). It proved to surpass
Arabia came looking for an AR. Sharing my skepticism
the 5.56mm in every aspect of bullet performance. Early
for the 5.56mm NATO, they wanted the 6.8 SPC, but in a
adoption of the 115-grain OTM provided accuracy, in-
reliable weapon. LWRCI decided to break from the norm
creased energy on target and ballistic efficiency in short-
and start over. The company collaborated with Magpul,
er barrels. The only downside was the need for replacing
which built a PMAG around the cartridge that allowed it
the standard 5.56mm bolt, barrel and magazine.
to reliably hold and feed 30 rounds. Then LWRCI molded
Early 6.8 SPC ammunition was pretty limited until
its Six8 receivers around the PMAG. Another partner, ATK
the hunting market jumped in. As is often the case, hunt-
(Federal) developed the 90-grain Gold Dot to meet the
ers took this cartridge to its limits, encouraging better
contract requirements. A bonded bullet, it was designed
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FEB/MAR 2015 • GUNS & WEAPONS FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT 27
LWRCI SIX8 SBR
The customized LWRCI Six8 SBR ran reliably at the range, even with a three-piece OSS suppressor system installed.
to be accurate with reliable expansion, making it just about perfect for law enforcement. Subsequent ballistics testing by third parties confirmed the round’s ability to expand with excellent penetration characteristics.
GUN DETAILS I recently had the chance to build and test a customized short-barreled rifle (SBR) for LE missions with LWRCI’s Six8 platform. While 6.8 SPC barrels can be shorter, 12.7 (or 13) inches has proven to be the
optimal length in my experience. The velocity loss is minimal, the terminal effectiveness is unaffected, and you can still use a sound suppressor. Of course, suppressing this caliber with short barrels can be dicey, but it is possible at this length, making this the perfect choice for me. I tested LWRCI’s Six8 A2 upper with a 12.7-inch, cold-hammer-forged barrel made from 41V45 steel and treated with NiCorr for corrosion resistance. The company’s enhanced bolt and hardened bolt carrier provide for years of hard use. The upper also features LWRCI’s patented short-stroke piston-driven operating system, which runs reliably and keeps the action cool. Finally, the upper included a railed handguard and flip-up front and rear sights. The Six8 lower receiver is one of the strongest forgings in the industry. An ambidextrous bolt stop and magazine release
28 GUNS & WEAPONS FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT • FEB/MAR 2015
are built into the design along with a flared magazine well. To complete the control package, my build included Rainier Arms’ Raptor charging handle, a Troy Industries ambidextrous safety and Geissele’s SSA trigger. More enhancements included Battle Arms Development’s extended pushpins and Bravo Company’s Gunfighter pistol grip. Rounding out the lower is a Law Tactical Gen 3 Folding Stock Adapter and a mil-spec buffer tube using a Spike’s Tactical T2 buffer and a
The flattop upper provides plenty of space for mounting optics, such as the U.S. Optics SR-6 and Trijicon RMR (shown).
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Law Tactical’s Gen 3 Law Folding Stock Adapter makes any AR compact and easy to carry in discreet bags and cases.
Sprinco Blue enhanced spring. Law Tactical’s latest design is excellent. Made of steel, it is smaller and no longer interferes with the charging handle. In essence, it makes the carbine easier to store and deploy. I tried the carbine with several stocks but ultimately kept the Vltor IMod installed. Suppressing this caliber in short barrels can be an exercise in frustration—the round just does not work well with the increased carrier speed. For this endeavor I turned to Operators Suppressor Systems (OSS). This modular, three-part system offers a lot of versatility. First you have the Flash Hider Muzzle Brake (FHMB). Then you can screw on the outer shell to com-
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It functioned flawlessly as fast as I could pull the trigger.
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plete the Back Pressure Regulator (BPR). On its own, it provides moderate sound and flash moderation similar to other “short” suppressors. The difference is the lack of backpressure, ensuring reliability. More importantly, it sends all the blast forward, keeping you and anyone near you in the fight. Add the Signature Reduction Module (SRM) and you get sound suppression similar to a standard suppressor. I used a titanium, machine-gun-rated OSS system for the testing. For optics I used a U.S. Optics SR-6 1.5-6x scope with a lighted JNG Mil reticle and 0.10-mil zeroing knobs. This has long been my idea of the perfect carbine scope. It provides adequate power for identifica-
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FEB/MAR 2015 • GUNS & WEAPONS FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT 29
LWRCI SIX8 SBR tion, has a moderate size and is capable of reaching the limits of the 6.8 SPC cartridge. U.S. Optics scopes are rugged and reliable, and the FFP reticle makes holdovers accurate at any power. While the scope works great at CQB distances, I also prefer to have a dedicated close-range device. I installed the scope in a Warne RAMP mount, which allowed me to add a Trijicon RMR offset to the right. This dual-illumination RMR uses tritium for illumination in low light, while sunlight keeps it bright during daylight. Finally, for low-light situations, I added a SureFire Scout light in a LaRue Tactical mount and a rail-mounted switch. The LaRue mount helps the light sit flat against the rail without interfering with my grip. The switch sits on the top rail for ambidextrous operation.
RANGE TIME I thoroughly tested this SBR for operation and reliability before meeting Buck Doyle of Follow Through Consulting at his range in Teasdale, Utah. Nestled in the mountains, it provides the perfect means to test your carbine. Doyle is a retired Force Recon Marine with an eye towards practical application. His facility allows you to shoot in natural terrain, from high angles and out to well beyond 1,000 yards. With the LWRCI Six8 SBR, we stuck to 600 yards or closer, spending most of our time inside 350 yards. We started by zeroing the carbine at 100 yards and then going out to 600 yards. I established holdovers using my deployment ammunition, the Federal 90-grain Gold Dot and Silver State Armory’s 90-grain PPT ammo. I used my Applied Ballistics calculator to create a realistic range card after confirming a hold at 6.5 mils. Confirmation at 200 to 400 yards ensured it was accurate. Engaging multiple targets at 350 yard was easy, thanks in part to the U.S. Optics scope. If I just held high on the target at each range and accounted for wind, the SBR was dead on. Buck Doyle had me shoot from prone, on barricades, on natural obstacles and under stress.
30 GUNS & WEAPONS FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT • FEB/MAR 2015
LWRCI CUSTOM SIX8 SPECIFICATIONS Caliber: 6.8 SPC • Barrel: 12.7 inches OA Length: 33.5 inches • Weight: 7 pounds Stock: Vltor IMod • Sights: Flip-up front and rear Action: Piston-operated semi-auto Finish: Matte black Capacity: 30+1 • MSRP: N/A
PERFORMANCE Load
Velocity Accuracy
Federal 90 Gold Dot Hornady 110 BTHP Hornady 110 V-MAX Silver State Armory 85 E-Tip Silver State Armory 90 TNT Silver State Armory 115 OTM
2,835 2,610 2,600 2,950 2,987 2,590
0.58 0.75 1.00 0.95 0.90 0.86
Bullet weight measured in grains, velocity in fps by chronograph, and accuracy in inches for best five-shot groups at 100 yards.
It was fantastic real-world practice. I highly recommend his range if you are looking for a place to really wring out your scoped carbine. Back at my home range, I tested the Six8 for accuracy and reliability along with operation and deployment using the folding stock. Long a limitation of the AR, this addition proved incredibly useful. The SBR was very accurate with the 90-grain ammunition. My best group came with the Federal Gold Dot at 0.58 inches, while the Silver State 90-grain TNT was almost the same. The carbine was no slouch with the larger bullets, but 90-grain rounds are the ticket for duty use. Independent testing in ballistic gelatin puts this ammo in the sweet spot for FBI protocols, and it is reliable, soft shooting and easy to get. It is also priced fairly, in some cases very close to 5.56mm ammo. As a bonus, you can practice with your actual deployment rounds all the time! The SBR operated flawlessly with the OSS suppressor. It was perfect for me to use just the BPR alone. On normal strings of fire, there was little or no flash. Really rapid fire produced some flash, but that was expected. The SBR’s functioning was unaffected, and it was quiet enough for a
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LWRCI SIX8 SBR
The author installed a SureFire Scout light on the LWRCI Six8 SBR’s handguard with a durable LaRue Tactical mount.
fight. It also adds only about an inch to the weapon’s overall length, keeping things handy. Adding the SRM eliminated flash and reduced the sound levels to ear-safe conditions. It also did not effect the Six8’s operation. It functioned flawlessly as fast as I could pull the trigger.
FINAL NOTES With all of the accessories mounted, the Six8 SBR is no lightweight, but it is a duty gun—not a training or competition gun. Nor will it be “humped” for long distances outside of a pack. Moving to a red dot would lighten things up a bit, but the balance on this setup was excellent. I used the carbine a ton in most every condition without getting fatigued. The U.S. Optics SR-6 is the perfect scope for me, and the Warne mount worked well. With the Law Tactical adapter, the rifle fit perfectly in my Eberlestock X3. The Six8 SBR was incredibly handy. Carried with a jacket, four magazines, water, a bipod and some other essentials, the carbine packed comfortably on my treks into the mountains above the range. It was also pretty fast when deploying from my truck. All in all, combining the Law Tactical Gen 3 folder and a covert bag was just about perfect. It will also fit nicely into a trunk. The folder did nothing to adversely effect operation, and the new design makes it simple to take the rifle down for cleaning. This was a blast of a test. I hope to get many years of use out of this rifle. It uses one of my favorite cartridges and is perfectly suited to any duty use. Were the mean streets of South Salt Lake still my area of operation, this rifle would be right there with me. Find out more about the Six8 by visiting lwrci.com or calling 410-901-1348. For the OSS suppressor, visit oss-online. com or call 801-542-0425.
32 GUNS & WEAPONS FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT • FEB/MAR 2015
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LET THERE BE LIGHT BEARING.
BLACKHAWK!® EPOCH™ LEVEL 3 LIGHT-BEARING DUTY HOLSTER accepts most popular weapon-mounted lights and features a fast, intuitive thumb lock release that reinforces proper grip © 2014 BLACKHAWK! ® NORFOLK, VA U.S.A.
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BASIC TRAINING BY FRED MASTISON
FORCE ON FORCE FIRESTORM Prepare for real-world gunfights with ATK’s new Force On Force training ammunition! There are few programs more effective than force-on-force training. The techniques and principles taught on the range can quickly be put to the test when pain is a real consequence of failure. Without real-world feedback, it is difficult to know if certain techniques or principles really work. Force-on-force training is the absolute best way to find out, short of having to use those skills in the real world. To understand why, though, we need to define what “force on force” training really is. Force-on-force training is technically any scenario where an officer is faced with a simulated lethal-force encounter. These scenarios utilize weapons or ammunition that has been modified to be non-lethal yet delivers a pain penalty when hit. These weapons and ammunition range from simple airsoft and paintball guns to expensive training am-
Force-on-force training is a good way to demonstrate just how quickly lethal encounters can occur. ATK’s Force On Force rounds are designed to be fired from converted weapons like the Glock 17T and ATK also offers conversion kits for several other weapon platforms.
munition fired from modified duty weapons. The best options involve rounds that will leave a color marking on a subject, making it easy to see hits. This type of feedback is essential to not only verify hits but also
assess accuracy. An officer may shoot tight groups on the range but turn into a wreck when put into a training scenario. The pain penalty involved is a reminder that we must be focused on protecting ourselves while still
Force on Force training ammo is lead-free and safe for indoor use. Their special marking agent has an extended shelf-life and leaves a distinctive mark.
Photo courtesy manufacturer
34 GUNS & WEAPONS FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT • FEB/MAR 2015
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engaging the threat. The pain penalty is a good deterrent for those who may want to just “wade out” into the gunfight. A few hits—reminiscent of bee stings— will remind you to seek cover.
ATK’S ANSWER
Contrary to popular belief, all forceon-force gear is not the same. While cost is a real factor in law enforcement training, there is a point where super low-cost training begins to be less effective because of the quality of equipment. Enter ATK. Already well known throughout the law enforcement and shooting communities as the producers of Federal Premium and Speer LE ammunition, ATK has chosen to enter the training market with a complete line of Force On Force ammunition that is broken down into three categories: reduced-energy marking rounds, non-marking rounds and blanks. The rounds are designed to be fired from converted weapons such as the Glock 17T or those converted previously to run with Simunition rounds. While ATK offers conversion kits, they are not required. This is a solid move on ATK’s part, as there is no need to buy new conversion
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…the 5.56mm Force On Force rounds can regularly produce 1-inch groups at 40 feet.
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kits if agencies transition from Simunition to ATK Force On Force rounds. ATK has managed to take existing designs in training ammunition and improve on them. For those who have spent a great deal of time in shoothouses, there are two major factors to help these rounds stand apart. First is that all of the Force On Force rounds are lead free and safe for indoor use. Secondly, there is no gunpowder, which all but eliminates the smell associated with indoor training. The 9mm and 5.56mm marking rounds are available in five colors: red, blue, yellow, green and white. Other colors are available upon request. They are biodegradable, environmentally friendly and cold-water washable. You
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FEB/MAR 2015 • GUNS & WEAPONS FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT 35
FORCE ON FORCE FIRESTORM
Capable of being run in modified weapons, ATK’s Force On Force ammunition provides a costeffective training option for agencies.
can simply wipe off training gear and uniforms. One very special component of the design is the inclusion of a copper-driving band. This band on the plastic projectile actually engages the rifling of the weapon and greatly improves accuracy. For example, the 5.56mm Force On Force rounds can regularly produce 1-inch groups at 40 feet. This offers much more realistic training and avoids the “spray and pray” that sometimes happens in force-on-force simulations because of accuracy issues.
BETTER TRAINING
ATK has managed to build a better mousetrap with its new Force On Force ammunition. It is cost effective and, more importantly, reliable. The ongoing barrel cleaning that normally takes place during force-on-force training is
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Without real-world feedback, it is difficult to know if certain techniques or principles really work.
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almost completely eliminated. This, combined with improved accuracy, makes these rounds a far superior choice for training. Agency budgets are anemic across the country. With funds being cut for everything, it is important that command staff choose wisely when investing training dollars. ATK Force On Force ammo is one of the best investments they can make. Thanks to its low failure rates and high-quality training capabilities, ATK’s Force On Force ammunition has become the gold standard in realistic training. For more information, visit forceonforce.com or call 800-379-1732. 36 GUNS & WEAPONS FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT • FEB/MAR 2015
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DANIEL DEFENSE mm M4V9LW 5.56 GUN TEST
Tier One rifle delivers quick follow-up shots in a lightweight, fast-handling package! By Rob Garrett • Photos by Steve Woods
Of all the “black rifle” companies, Daniel Defense has established an identity and reputation that can be best described by the military term “Tier One.” In 2000, Marty Daniel founded Daniel Defense with only one product, a lowly sling adaptor. The company came to the attention of the military community when the Army Marksmanship Unit adopted the Daniel Defense free-floating, quad-rail forend for the new Designated Marksman Rifle (DMR) program. The company’s next big success was the Rail Interface System (RIS) II, which was designed to meet a USSOCOM requirement for a free-floated barrel with the ability to mount an M203 grenade launcher. After extensive testing, USSOCOM selected Daniel Defense as the sole source provider for the RIS. As this is written,
38 GUNS & WEAPONS FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT • FEB/MAR 2015
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Daniel Defense’s M4V9LW is a lightweight 5.56mm powerhouse built for unshakeable reliability. Shown with a Bushnell 3-9x40mm AR Optics scope, a LaserLyte Center Mass laser and an Inforce WML light.
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FEB/MAR 2015 • GUNS & WEAPONS FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT 39
DANIEL DEFENSE M4V9LW
Daniel Defense’s new stock and pistol grip offer enhanced ergonomics with overmolded inserts.
The DDM4V9LW features standard AR controls, and the receivers are built in-house to military specifications.
The upper features M4 feed ramps, a forward assist and a magnetic-particleinspected, chrome-lined bolt carrier group.
Daniel Defense has delivered more than 30,000 RIS II handguards to USSOCOM and other military units. Daniel Defense has grown from humble beginnings to having two production and assembly locations. While maintaining its original 38,000-square-foot production facility in Black Creek, Georgia, the company also has a 90,000-square-foot assembly and shipping facility in South Carolina. This has enabled the company to expand and be more efficient in meeting the demands of the market.
40 GUNS & WEAPONS FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT • FEB/MAR 2015
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DANIEL DEFENSE M4V9LW SPECIFICATIONS
PERFORMANCE
Caliber: 5.56mm NATO • Barrel: 16 inches OA Length: 32.5-35.88 inches Weight: 6.3 pounds Stock: Collapsible • Sights: None Action: Direct impingement semi-auto Finish: Hardcoat anodized black Capacity: 30+1 • MSRP: $1,689
Load
Velocity Accuracy
ASYM Precision 70 TSX Hornady TAP 55 Urban Hornady TAP 62 Barrier
What sets Daniel Defense apart from others is the company’s total commitment to quality. To that end, Daniel Defense manufactures, in house, nearly every component of its rifles. This not only includes the barrels, upper and lower receivers and fire control parts, but also extends to pins and small components. Daniel Defense is one of a few companies in the United States that produces hammer-forged barrels. This capability also allows Daniel
2,593 2,819 2,720
0.86 0.90 0.79
Bullet weight measured in grains, velocity in fps by chronograph, and accuracy in inches for best five-shot groups at 100 yards.
Defense to be the OEM supplier to other manufacturers. Recently, I received the new DDM4V9 Lightweight (LW) for testing.
GUN DETAILS The DDM4V9 series is the latest to represent Daniel Defense’s philosophy of “lighter, stronger, better.” The DDM4V9LW combines a mid-length gas system with a 16-inch, lightweight-profile barrel and a 15inch DDM4 Rail handguard that is machined
The carbine has a long top rail for mounting sights and optics like the Aimpoint PRO.
from 6061-T6 aluminum. The combination makes for an attractive and functional carbine. The DDM4 Rail, while being a traditional quad-rail, is designed to minimize bulk. Its 15-inch length provides room for accessories and an extended sight radius when using iron sights. As previously stated, Daniel Defense’s components are manufactured to exacting mil-spec standards, with all of the major parts being produced in-house. The lower receiver is machined in-house from a forging to military specifications and features a flared magazine well. The upper receiver is also machined in-house and has the standard brass deflector, forward assist assem-
DANIEL DEFENSE M4V9LW bly, M4 feed ramps and a Picatinny top rail with indexing marks. The bolt carrier group is magnetic-particle (MP) inspected and chrome-lined, with a gas key staked per military specifications. At the heart of every Daniel Defense rifle is its cold-hammerforged barrel. The DDM4V9LW’s 16-inch barrel is forged from a chrome-moly-vanadium steel blank and features a lightweight profile and a standard 1-in-7-inch twist rate. The bore is chrome-lined, while the exterior has been coated with a phosphate finish. The flash suppressor is Daniel Defense’s own design, and it’s more efficient than a standard M4 unit. The internal fire control components are standard mil-spec, and the test rifle’s trigger broke at 8.13 pounds with an appreciable amount of creep. They now offer 2 upgraded Triggers: Geissele SSA two-stage (2.5 lb Take-up and 2.0 lb Break) and the SD3G(3.5-4.5 lb). My test rifle came equipped with optional Daniel Defense fixed iron sights. These sights are manufactured out of aircraft-
“
The mid-length gas system softens the recoil impulse and enables faster follow-up shots.
“
grade 6061-T6 aluminum and then finished with a mil-spec hardcoat anodizing. The design of the sights minimizes the footprint on the rail, allowing space for additional accessories. The front sight utilizes a sight post, while the rear sight uses an A2 aperture with A1 adjustments. Both the front sight blade and rear sight aperture are protected by wings. These are rugged sights that are designed to withstand hard use. While flip-up sights are the rave, I grew to like Daniel Defense’s fixed sights for their clean sight picture and compact design. In 2014, Daniel Defense introduced an OEM buttstock and pistol grip. The butt-
42 GUNS & WEAPONS FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT • FEB/MAR 2015
The DDM4 Rail offers plenty of real estate for mounting mission-critical accessories, such as the LaserLyte Center Mass and Inforce WML shown.
stock is designed with a modular buttplate that allows the user to select from two different shapes. The release lever is ergonomically designed for easy manipulation as well as ease in removing the buttstock. Its soft cheek inserts are overmolded to provide a positive and comfortable cheekweld. The pistol grip features an integral, oversized triggerguard, finger recesses and similar overmolded inserts. The grip has a reduced angle that I found more comfortable than a mil-spec grip.
RANGE TIME The DDM4V9LW is approximately 5 ounces lighter than the standard DDM4V9 without sacrificing any of the other benefits and features. The DDM4V9LW, while being a standard-length carbine, is well balanced and easy to manipulate. My first trip to the range with the DDM4V9LW was very informal and designed to get the feel for the carbine. During the testing, the DDM4V9LW proved 100-percent reliable with a variety of ammunition. The rifle swung easily, and I benefited from the extended sight radius. Hitting informal targets the size of ping pong balls at 30 yards or so proved almost too easy. For formal accuracy testing, I mounted my 2.5-8x36mm Leupold Mark 4 MR/T M2 scope with a LaRue SPR mount. The TMR reticle and brilliant light-gathering capabilities make the Mark 4 series of scopes ideal for the law enforcement community. I have found this particular optic to be extremely versatile, and it has become my go-to glass. I tested the rifle’s accuracy at 100 yards with three loads: ASYM Precision’s 70-grain Barnes TSX ammunition, as well as Hornady’s 55- and 62-grain TAP ammunition. The ASYM load averaged 2,593 fps and produced a best five-shot group that measured 0.86 inches. The 55-grain TAP, which is one of the best general-purpose duty rounds on the market, averaged 2,810
GUNS-WEAPONS.com
DANIEL DEFENSE M4V9LW
Daniel Defense’s fixed front (left) and rear (right) iron sights are designed to withstand harsh abuse in the field.
fps and produced a best group that measured 0.9 inches. The 62-grain TAP Barrier is designed to penetrate barriers and still provide effective terminal ballistics in soft tissue. The 62-grain TAP averaged 2,720 fps and produced the smallest group of the day at 0.79 inches. The DDM4V9LW exceeded my expectations with all three loads. This can be directly attributed to the Daniel Defense barrel and the company’s attention to detail and quality. The mid-length gas system softens the recoil impulse and enables faster follow-up shots.
OPTIC, LIGHT & SLING For those who do not need a magnified optic, the Aimpoint Patrol Rifle Optic (PRO) is ideal for the DDM4V9LW. The PRO is designed to offer all of the advantages of the higher-end Aimpoint optics at a more affordable price point. As with other Aimpoint optics, the body of the PRO is machined from a solid billet of aircraft-grade aluminum. A single CR1/3N lithium battery powers the PRO, providing over 3 years of continuous runtime on daylight settings. The 2-MOA dot features four night-vision settings and six daylight-visible settings. The PRO comes standard with an integral QD mount and front and rear lens covers. As a full-time law enforcement officer, I recognize the need for a white light on a patrol rifle. In keeping with the lightweight theme, I selected (Please turn to page 92)
44 GUNS & WEAPONS FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT • FEB/MAR 2015
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GUN TEST
P-09 Next-gen duty enforcer boasting 19+1 rounds of accurate 9mm firepower! By Chad Thompson • Photos courtesy CZ-USA
I will readily admit to anyone, and have done so many times in the past, that the most comfortable pistol I have ever held in my hands is the CZ 75 pistol. It is reminiscent of a Browning Hi-Power and a 1911 blended into one gun, and the grip angle and diameter are unparalleled to suit my tastes. With that being said, there are always exceptions to every rule, and I don’t carry one of these pistols daily because of a few features that have always seemed less than ideal to me. The CZ 75’s weight was always one of these factors. It is a really heavy pistol for police to carry on a daily basis, especially when you consider how much other stuff we end up carrying on our duty belts. Well, never
46 GUNS & WEAPONS FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT • FEB/MAR 2015
fear, CZ 75 lovers, because CZ-USA has now created a near-perfect matchup of CZ-style ergonomics and the weight-saving benefits of polymer technology. Say hello to the 9mm CZ P-09 pistol. I received this pistol after having a conversation with John Simmons of CZUSA at the International Association of Law Enforcement Firearms Instructors (IALEFI) annual training conference in Amarillo, Texas. He said that this pistol would make a great LEO duty weapon, and that the company was also offering the CZ P-07, a scaled-down version of this pistol that is ideal for detectives or off-duty carry. I spoke to Simmons at length at the ATC Memorial Match, part of the IALEFI conference, and watched him shoot the match with the CZ P-09. I also had a chance to handle the pistol while I was there and later received a sample for testing.
GUN DETAILS The CZ P-09 came in a padded, black polymer case containing the pistol, two magazines, three different interchangeable backstraps, cleaning equipment and even the extra parts to switch the P-09 from being a double-action/single-action (DA/SA) pistol with a decocker to a single-action with a manual safety in order to accom-
GUNS-WEAPONS.com
m m
9
modate folks who prefer the “cocked and locked” carry method. CZ-USA calls this its Omega trigger system. Since my definite preference is a cocked-and-locked single-action pistol, I used the gun in that configuration, with the ambidextrous thumb safety in the traditional location. Administrators and officers who aren’t allowed to carry a single-action pistol will probably opt for the traditional DA/SA setup. Either way, the pistol is ambidextrous to accommodate a wide variety of officers. Aesthetically, this thing is something to behold. In today’s climate of “ugly is functional,” some of us grow weary of polymer pistols looking very similar and being less than eye-catching—not so with the CZ P-09. It looks like it came from the set of some sci-fi TV show. The pistol’s matte black finish and cool angular design make it a lot more pleasing in appearance than many guns on the market now. The polymer frame is textured and sculpted for comfort and/or function. The front and backstraps have raised horizontal ridges
GUNS-WEAPONS.com
The CZ P-09 has several cutting-edge enhancements, including the Omega trigger system, an ergonomic polymer frame and more.
for a solid grip and to help control recoil. The triggerguard is undercut to allow for a much higher grip on the pistol, thereby making it easier to get back on target for fast follow-up shots. A Picatinny rail is molded into the frame just in front of the triggerguard to accommodate accessories, and really cool-looking vertical “memory” lines are molded into the area just above the trigger where the thumb and trigger finger ride when you aren’t firing the pistol. Completing the frame, there is a beavertail-type tang at the top of the backstrap to prevent hammer bite while firing and a lanyard loop on the bottom of the frame. The matching slide is all steel, with front and rear cocking serrations. The slide has a really futuristic, angular relief cut that tapers gradually from the muzzle back toward the rear sight. Like the CZ 75, the slide also rides on rails inside the frame. Some folks in our industry will tell you that internal slide rails like this make the pistol more accurate, but I honestly have never noticed the difference. That
being said, the P-09 is absolutely accurate, but more on that later. The pistol also features an exposed hammer, as opposed to the internal striker normally associated with polymer-framed guns, but I like the second-strike capability of the external hammer. In LEO work, I believe that an officer has time to attempt a second hammer strike on a light primer hit even as the support hand is coming up to begin an immediate-action drill in case the second strike doesn’t correct the problem. The grip is as slim and comfortable as a single-stack pistol’s, and that is even more impressive when you consider that
FEB/MAR 2015 • GUNS & WEAPONS FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT 47
CZ P-09 9mm
The slide has an angular design for easy drawing and reholstering, and the frame features a rail for adding lights and lasers.
The low-profile rear sight is windage adjustable and made of steel. Also note the ambidextrous decocker/thumb safety.
the CZ P-09 holds 19 rounds of 9mm ammunition in the magazine! In other words, once you top off the magazine after chambering the first round, you then have 20 rounds of ammunition at your disposal before you’ll need to reload. To my knowledge, that is more than any other duty-type pistol in the industry today. With the proliferation of heavily armed and determined criminals today, that alone should be a dealmaker for some agencies. The black magazines are metal, as is the reversible magazine release button. This should help in avoiding the commonly seen fatigue encountered when one is polymer and the other is metal. The sights are of the steel, three-dot variety, with the rear unit being a low-profile, snag-free design that is windage adjustable. The front sight is pushed into the dovetail cut from the front of the slide, instead of the usual side-toside installation. It looks good and was spot on from the factory, so I don’t see any issue with this setup. The three-dot sights will actually glow for a limited amount of time after receiving some kind of light to “charge” the sights. Of course, the pistol can be ordered with actual night sights already installed if an agency prefers. The two things that are commonly switched around on this CZ P-09 are
48 GUNS & WEAPONS FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT • FEB/MAR 2015
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the interchangeable backstraps and the Omega safety/decocker configuration. Fortunately, I found both of them easy to change out with no complications at all. You just need to remove one small pin, replace the backstrap and reinstall the pin. Of the small, medium and large backstraps, I prefer the small backstrap. I’m actually amazed that CZ was able to get the grip down to this diameter and still hold all of those 9mm rounds.
Turning the decocker into a thumb safety or vice versa does not take much more effort than that. I read the instructions and understood them, but a userfriendly video on the internet made changing the decocker out a little easier. Disassembling the pistol down is classic CZ—line up the two hash marks on the left-rear side of the slide and frame, then push the slide stop pin out to the left. It’s as easy as snapping your fingers, and it’s completely cop-proof. I should also note that the recoil spring and guide rod are captive when removed. Even though I used the gun in single-action, cocked-and-locked mode, I tested the trigger pulls in both double and single action because I had heard so much about the P-09’s trigA scaledger before I ever even held one. The trigdown P-09, the compact ger pull weight was 8.5 pounds in double CZ P-07 action and only 3.5 pounds in single acholds 15+1 tion. Now, I admit that the DA trigger pull rounds and is easier to left a lot to be desired when it came to its length and weight, but the SA trigger pull conceal.
COMPACT CZ P-07 While testing the CZ P-09, I also had the chance to evaluate the smaller P-07, and trust me, it was just as impressive. This pistol has all of the features of the full-sized duty gun but is easier to conceal and is more comfortable when carrying in plainclothes. With a 15-round magazine capacity, it’s hard to believe that the pistol is a small and compact as it is. DYNAMIC DUO: The P-07’s good combat sights and molded-in magazine well also make it a perfect complement to the P-09. The Omega trigger system was just as sweet in this pistol as it was in its big brother, and the gun ran everything I threw at it with ease. In 9mm, the pistol barely moved due to recoil, and even with its 3.75-inch barrel, the CZ P-07 was spot on, shooting nice tight groups. Both of these pistols have Enfield rifling as opposed to the sometimes-problematic polygonal rifling, which means agencies and officers can save a lot of money on ammo by using lead or cast plated bullets for practice sessions or qualifications. I can see an agency obtaining the full-sized P-09 for duty carry and the compact P-07 for detectives and the like with absolutely no transition training between the two since they Specifications: operate identically. I can also see those same officers carrying the Caliber: 9mm • Barrel: 3.8 inches P-09 preferring to use the P-07 as a OA Length: 7.2 inches perfect off-duty gun when they aren’t Weight: 27.2 ounces (empty) working. The pistol’s accessory rail, Grips: Polymer • Sights: Three-dot magazine capacity and steel sights Action: DA/SA • Finish: Matte black will give every operator a fighting Capacity: 15+1 • MSRP: $510 chance.— By Chad Thompson
CZ P-07
FEB/MAR 2015 • GUNS & WEAPONS FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT 49
CZ P-09 9mm is exceptional for a duty-type handgun, and it’s one of the smoothest I’ve encountered yet. The reset is a little longer than some other offerings, but it’s clean and can be heard and felt by the person shooting the pistol. In short, out of the box, this pistol’s SA trigger pull is better than any polymer gun’s I’ve ever tried.
CZ P-09
RANGE TIME
PERFORMANCE
Caliber: 9mm • Barrel: 4.5 inches OA Length: 8.1 inches Weight: 29.6 ounces Grips: Polymer • Sights: Three-dot
Load
Action: DA/SA Finish: Matte black or Flat Dark Earth Capacity: 19+1 • MSRP: $530-$596
I fired the CZ P-09 using Blazer 115grain FMJs, Winchester 124-grain FMJs, Ultramax 125-grain FMJ remanufactured
The slide stop has ridges and is easy to reach. Also note the textured finger rest on the frame, just above the trigger.
SPECIFICATIONS
Velocity Accuracy
Blazer 115 FMJ Ultramax 125 FMJ Winchester 124 FMJ
2.25 2.13 1.88
Bullet weight measured in grains, velocity in fps by chronograph, and accuracy in inches for best five-shot groups at 25 yards.
ammo and chronographed the rounds at the same time. I noticed nothing surprising here, as I fully expected this pistol to shoot accurately—and I wasn’t disappointed. The Winchester 124-grain FMJs were the most accurate, creating a 1.88-inch group. For me, I had to try really hard to disengage the manual safety when drawing and shooting this pistol. In the interest of fairness, I carry and shoot a 1911 daily that has an extended manual safety, and that is probably why it was hard for me to get the
50 GUNS & WEAPONS FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT • FEB/MAR 2015
1,130 1,042 1,125
safety off as quickly. There were no malfunctions throughout the testing, and the single-action trigger is really easy to get used to without a lot of practice. I honestly believe that an agency in the market for a new duty handgun today would be doing itself a disservice if it didn’t at least check out the CZ P-09. This pistol works, it’s not as expensive as a lot of other offerings, and it comes from a company with a stellar reputation. For more, visit cz-usa.com or call 800-955-4486.
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Photo: Josh Wolfe
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GUN TEST
MILTAC INDUSTRIES ALPHA m 5.56m Uncompromising patrol carbine with can’t-fail reliability!
The 5.56mm MILTAC Alpha leads the pack with cutting-edge enhancements that can give patrol officers the upper hand. Shown with Trijicon’s ACOG and RMR as well as Troy flip-up sights.
By D.K. Pridgen • Photos by Alex Landeen
There is nothing wrong with a basic AR/M4 if it meets an officer’s needs. Truthfully, many folks bolt on more stuff than
from many sources. Custom and semicustom shops and full-blown gun manufacturers all offer just about any combination of features an officer could need or want. MILTAC Industries of Boise, Idaho, is a
you’d find at an automotive shop, including
manufacturer offering rock-solid versions
curb feelers! On the other hand, there are
of Eugene Stoner’s brainchild. According to
some accessories dictated by the mission,
MILTAC, “No other manufacturer offers more
and still more actually needed for optimum
in their ‘standard’ package.” Looking at how
handling/operation.
the company outfits its rifles, this doesn’t
Lights are examples of mission-dictated
seem much of a stretch. I recently tested a
accessories. Most LEO confrontations occur
MILTAC Alpha carbine extensively, and it is
in varying degrees of reduced light—night-
certainly well appointed.
time, shadows or darkened buildings.
Opening its doors at the end of 2012,
Threats must be identified to justify engage-
MILTAC’s first rifle was appropriately enough
ment, which means using a light. For opti-
the “standard package” Alpha Series. By
mum handling, most folks benefit from hand
2014, the lineup has expanded to include
stops, vertical foregrips (if used properly)
four more rifle series and an AR pistol.
or angled foregrips. Railed forends make it easier to add these practical upgrades. More desirable upgrades include
GUN DETAILS A direct-impingement carbine, the Alpha
quick-detach (QD) sling attachment points,
begins life with upper and lower receivers
improved pistol grips, adjustable stocks with
CNC machined with an attractive and distinct
enhanced cheekwelds—you get the picture.
look from 7075-T6 aluminum alloy billet. In
If it makes LEOs shoot well or identify threats
fact, Alpha receivers are machined as a pair
quicker, an accessory is needed. If it adds
to maintain closer tolerances. They also have
weight and just looks better, don’t do it.
special touches, such as flared magazine
With the abundance of AR/M4s around,
wells and integral, enlarged triggerguards. Fi-
LEOs who purchase their own duty weapons
nally, the receivers are hardcoat anodized and
or have input in their agency’s purchasing
then receive a coating of durable Cerakote.
process no longer have to settle for a long
The 16-inch, chrome-lined, 4140 chrome-
gun that’s not optimum for them and/or their
moly-vanadium barrel features a 1-in-7-inch
agency—one requiring modifications to meet
twist rate, a 5.56mm NATO chamber and M4
their needs. Ready-to-run guns are available
feed ramps. The rifle also sports a low-profile
GUNS-WEAPONS.com
FEB/MAR 2015 • GUNS & WEAPONS FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT 53
MILTAC INDUSTRIES ALPHA gas block and carbine-length gas system. The muzzle features 1/2x28 threading and comes fitted with a Smith Enterprise Vortex flash suppressor. Surrounding the barrel and gas system is MILTAC’s 13inch Sierra Tango Rail (STR), a nice-looking and functional handguard with a full-length Picatinny rail on top. A free-floating forend machined from 6061-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum alloy, the hexagonal-shaped STR feels good in the hand, has plenty of octagonal lightening/ cooling vents and weighs only 7 ounces. The STR attaches using a steel barrel nut, and it also has forward QD slots in the 3 and 9 o’clock positions. The remainder of the forend arrives sans rail—a condition curable by the pair of 2-inch rails MILTAC includes with the Alpha. Riding on the mil-spec receiver extension/buffer tube is a Magpul ACS-L (light)
For enhanced handling characteristics and control, MILTAC outfits the Alpha with a textured Magpul MIAD pistol grip.
Magpul’s RVG rides on the STR handguard to provide forward control. Note the STR’s octagonal lightening/cooling holes.
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MILTAC The Alpha ran flawlessly at the range with a variety of loads.
stock, which weighs about 1.5 ounces less than the original ACS because it is void of battery storage tubes for a slimmer, lighter package. The rifle is also outfitted with Magpul’s Rail Vertical Grip (RVG), MIAD pistol grip and a single 30-round PMag, all excellent choices. Reliability is critical for a serious-use weapon, a classification LEO weapons fall into. The bolt and bolt carrier group play a critical part in an ARs’ reliability. To this end, the bolt carrier is made of 8620 steel, while the bolt is casehardened, shot peened and magnetic-particle inspected. The gas rings are mil-spec, and the gas key is properly staked according to military specifications.
INDUSTRIES ALPHA
SPECIFICATIONS
PERFORMANCE
Caliber: 5.56mm NATO Barrel: 16 inches • OA Length: 34 inches Weight: 6.75 pounds (empty) Stock: Magpul ACS-L • Action: DIGS Sights: Troy M4 Flip-up Battlesights Finish: Full custom Cerakote Capacity: 30+1 • MSRP: $2,389
Load
Velocity Accuracy
Australian Outback 55 SBK Hornady 60 TAP Urban Wilson Combat 77 Match HPBT
Finally, Alpha bolt carrier groups are EXO Fail Zero nickel-boron coated. The Alpha comes with a Geissele 2-Stage (G2S) trigger, a perfect choice for service weapons. Geissele triggers are known for reliability and quality, and the G2S is no different. With wire-EDM-cut sear surfaces and everything deburred by hand, it is designed as combat trigger providing a reli-
2,895 2,903 2,611
1.02 1.14 0.99
Bullet weight measured in grains, velocity in fps by chronograph, and accuracy in inches for best five-shot groups at 100 yards.
able, two-stage pull. The G2S has a smooth take-up and a crisp break, with no adjustment screws, which means it will remain consistent through hard use. As a final touch, virtually every metallic piece of the Alpha can be finished in black or Flat Dark Earth Cerakote. A two-tone model, with Flat Dark Earth receivers and black furniture—like my test carbine—is also an
MILTAC INDUSTRIES ALPHA option from MILTAC Industries. All of this is covered by a limited lifetime warranty.
RANGE TIME Excellent craftsmanship can only go so far in proving a fighting rifle’s quality. To determine how the Alpha would perform in the field, I packed it in the supplied Voodoo Tactical case with a pile of ammunition and took it to the range on several occasions. As it turns out, not only is the Alpha a great performer, but it’s also quite enjoyable to shoot. Its balance and handling were great, and the Geissele Two-Stage trigger certainly helped! The folks from MILTAC were kind enough to include a 4x32mm dual-illuminated (fiber optics/tritium) ACOG with a red chevron .223 ballistic reticle—the same models fielded with the U.S. military. This durable optic was excellent to work with as distances increased because of the red chevron. However, 4x magnification became less effective as target distances decreased, so I also used a 3.5-MOA-dot RMR sight on top of the ACOG in a TA51 mount. The minute the field of view of the ACOG became too narrow, a sight head motion brought the RMR into play. Both Trijicon sights were supported by a sturdy set of folding Troy backup sights that were easy to deploy. A Blue Force Gear padded Vickers sling finished the package. To test the carbine’s accuracy, I mounted one of U.S. Optics’ SR-8C 1-8x28mm scopes and used a Caldwell Lead Sled, which helped me make the 100- and 200yard shots as representative as possible. In short, the accuracy of this Alpha carbine was excellent—way beyond what will be needed for virtually every law enforcement shot that might need to be made, especially considering the average LE countersniper shot is around 50 yards. Of course, only a fool would wish for less accuracy! If a shot exceeds the so-called “average,” the Alpha equips the officer well to handle it.
FINAL NOTES The 1-in-7-inch twist rate handled all bullet weights tested well, but it really liked the 77-grain load from Wilson Combat, dropping five rounds into a 0.99-inch group. In fact, the accuracy for this load held together at 200 yards to produce a 2.11-inch group. The MILTAC Alpha is definitely a shooter! The Alpha easily excelled in all my standard CQB and longer-distance drills. This is where I always ask myself if there are any changes I would like to see made to
56 GUNS & WEAPONS FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT • FEB/MAR 2015
GUNS-WEAPONS.com
By eliminating the battery storage tubes of the original ACS buttstock, the Magpul ACS-L weighs 1.5 ounces less and is much slimmer.
The receivers are finished in Cerakote, and the bolt carrier group is nickel-boron coated for enhanced reliability.
the MILTAC Alpha—either personal preferences or for use by those LEOs who need a patrol rifle. I found absolutely nothing amiss with the Alpha. I would, however, prefer both sides of the lower receiver to have rear QD connection points. I described MILTAC’s carbines earlier as “rock-solid versions of Eugene Stoner’s brainchild,” and nothing changed my mind. I believe MILTAC’s enhancements provide improved reliability, functioning and handling for LEOs (or anyone) who might pick one up to go into harm’s way. The EXO Fail Zero bolt carrier group, the 13-inch Sierra Tango Rail handguard and the Geissle 2-Stage trigger are excellent, thoughtful improvements for the Alpha. I have no hesitations in recommending the MILTAC Alpha to anyone carrying a badge or those who don’t! When your life is on the line, equipment like this should be in your unit or at your side. For more information, visit miltacindustries.com or call 866-587-7130.
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FEB/MAR 2015 • GUNS & WEAPONS FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT 57
ON THE BELT
9 RETENTION HOLSTERS Some of the most modern duty holsters available for LEOs today!
Photos Courtesy Sara Ahrens
BY RICHARD JOHNSON
Perhaps the only thing worse than being shot in the line of duty is being shot with your own weapon. While every call does not involve the use of a firearm, the responding officer brings at least one into the mix. That service pistol could be the focus of an attack should things go sideways. While improved weapon retention training has contributed to saving many officers’ lives, there is little doubt that a quality holster can help keep the duty pistol out of an offender’s hands. Many duty holster designs have come and gone. A few classics are still with us. Here is a look at some of the current duty holsters that offer increased weapon protection.
BLACKHAWK EPOCH
Designed specifically to work with popular weapon lights such as the Streamlight TLR-1 and the SureFire X300, the BlackHawk Epoch holster has an internal locking feature that hooks on the ejection port for a high degree of grab resistance. For additional security, the holster uses a Pivot Guard that covers the back of the slide. When released, the Pivot Guard springs out of the way and will not accidentally snap back to prevent reholstering of the firearm. It is available with a basket-weave finish in addition to plain and matte black finishes. The MSRPs for these holsters start at $108. For more information, visit blackhawk.com or call 800-379-1732.
BLADE-TECH WRS LEVEL 3
Known for high-quality concealment and competition holsters, Blade-Tech also offers top-notch duty holsters. The WRS Level 3 offers a natural draw that is not hampered by needlessly complex security devices. Using the company’s Tactical Modular Mount System, an officer can move the WRS holster from a duty belt to a tactical vest or thigh rig without the need to remove the pistol. The holsters can also be had in a variety of colors other than black to match a tactical team’s uniforms. The MSRPs for these holsters start at $125. For more information, visit blade-tech.com or call 877-331-5793.
BLACKHAWK SERPA
Another BlackHawk duty holster, the SERPA Auto Lock automatically locks a gun in and prevents its removal until the SERPA release is activated. The holsters use a Pivot Guard to lock the gun in at a second point. Even with both of these features engaged, an officer can draw the duty gun quickly. The standard holster is available for most of the commonly carried duty pistols. For departments issuing the Night-Ops Xiphos weapon light, there is a SERPA holster that will accommodate that as well. Basketweave, plain and matte finishes are all available. The MSRPs for these holsters start at $108. For more information, visit blackhawk.com or call 800-379-1732.
DARA DUTY HOLSTER
Using thick Kydex and Melonite-finished steel, the Duty Holster from Dara Holsters & Gear is backed by a “lifetime no B.S. warranty.” These rigs use an internal rubber retention system combined with a rotating strap that is operated by the thumb during the draw. These holsters are available for a broad range of firearms, and they are customizable for duty belt size, color and light/laser attachments. The MSRP for these holsters is $72. For more information, visit daraholsters.com or call 919-665-5316.
Photos Courtesy Manufacturers
58 GUNS & WEAPONS FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT • FEB/MAR 2015
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GOULD & GOODRICH K391
Gould & Goodrich has made duty holsters for many years, and the K391 is a triple-retention successor to the classic models. It uses a rotating hood and an anti-blade device to help secure the gun from an offender’s grab. The K391 is available for many of the popular duty pistols in use today. The K391 has a suggested retail price of $166. For more information on this holster, visit gouldusa.com or call 800-277-0732.
SAFARILAND 070 SSIII
The Safariland 070 SSIII holster is likely the most successful retention holster ever fielded by law enforcement. The holster is just as good today as it was decades ago. Designed by Bill Rogers, the 070 has been made by Safariland since the mid-1980s. Countless officers owe their lives—at least in part—to this holster. Unlike many of the more modern retention holsters, the 070 relies on snaps and a particular motion to draw the gun. With practice, the 070 is as fast as any other security holster. The MSRP starts at $147. For more information, visit safariland.com or call 800-347-1200.
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FEB/MAR 2015 • GUNS & WEAPONS FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT 59
9 RETENTION HOLSTERS
SAFARILAND MODEL 6360
Using the company’s popular Automatic Locking System (ALS), the Model 6360 holster from Safariland is one of the most popular holsters in service today. The rig uses a rotating hood to secure the weapon and a separate physical barrier to deter a suspect from snatching the gun from the holster. An additional device called the Sentry further secures the weapon in the holster. The MSRP starts at $147. For more information, visit safariland.com or call 800-347-1200.
60 GUNS & WEAPONS FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT • FEB/MAR 2015
SAFARILAND 7360 7TS
The Model 7360 is a new holster from Safariland that is similar in configuration to the 6360. It uses an ALS to help secure the gun, and it also has an optional Sentry system. However, the 7TS uses a new nylon blend material that is extremely durable, impervious to temperature changes and weather, yet is completely non-abrasive to the gun’s finish. The MSRP starts at $110. For more information, visit safariland.com or call 800-347-1200.
UNCLE MIKE’S PRO-3 SLIM LINE
The Pro-3 Slim Line holster from Uncle Mike’s offers a traditional thumb break combined with an internal locking system to increase the officer’s ability to retain the weapon during a disarming attempt. The Pro-3 can be had in a variety of finishes including plain nylon and basket weave. The MSRP starts at $97. For more information, visit unclemikes.com or call 800-423-3537.
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13 OF THE BEST NEW PRODUCTS from the By Fred Mastison • Photos courtesy manufacturers
T
he annual gathering of law enforcement’s most senior leaders has once
again proven to be a huge success. The International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) conference held in Orlando last year served not only as a conference, but as an exposition of law enforcement-centric products. The 2014 IACP expo was a major success, and law enforcement leaders from around the world were able to meet to discuss policy and methodologies while still being able to explore mission-critical products. The IACP is the premier meeting of its kind and has once again outdone itself. Let’s take a look at some of the highlights of this year’s event.
ALTERNATIVE BALLISTICS As law enforcement officers work to incorporate more less-lethal options into their inventories, Alternative Ballistics has developed a new device. The device is developed as a bluntforce impact device launching from the muzzle of an officer’s duty weapon. The device is unique as it converts a duty weapon into a less-lethal weapon within seconds. Designed with a hard plastic shroud the fits over the muzzle of the duty weapon that falls away once fired, it does not interfere with the weapon’s standard operations. For more information, call 619-326-4411 or visit alternativeballistics.com.
AAMI WEAPONS MGL-LTL Developed with the modern tactical team in mind, the MGL-LTL from AAMI Weapons is a less-lethal launcher worthy of a serious look. The launcher offers exceptional flexibility by firing rounds from a variety of manufacturers in both 40mm and 37/38mm. The launcher also has a KeyMod rail to accommodate a variety of grips, lights, lasers and other accessories. The launcher also features an adjustable stock to modify the length of pull and cheekweld for multiple operators. For more information, visit abrams.com/ aamiweapons/ or call 520-887-1727.
62 GUNS & WEAPONS FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT • FEB/MAR 2015
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GEAR FROM IACP International Association of Chiefs of Police expo! BLACK CREEK PRECISION 9MM SBR
ZEUS BY AMERICAN TACTICAL ENTRY The days of caveman breaching are long gone. No longer are SWAT operators wielding cumbersome pieces of steel harvested from some backlot and crudely modified. The best example of that is the Zeus ram from American Tactical Entry, an ergonomic masterpiece created from American made steel that is truly a one-person ram. The reach through handle design allows the operator to keep their weapon hand free on approach and slide the ram down to prepare to breach. With a full handguard and coated surface, the Zeus ram is one of the best on the market. For more information, visit ateamfg.com or call 813-523-8121.
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As many agencies find their way back towards the 9mm round, they are also looking for rifles in the same caliber. The good folks at Black Creek Precision have designed and manufactured a dedicated AR-platform SBR in 9mm. Coming in 5.5, 6.5 and 10.5 inches, there is a barrel length to fit any need. The lower is an enhanced, precision-machined, dedicated 9mm unit that has been hardcoat anodized. The magazine well is heavily beveled and relieved to make loading fast and smooth. Custom options available. Black Creek Precision has hit a homerun with this offering. For more information, visit blackcreekprecision.com or call 888-426-6624.
FEB/MAR 2015 • GUNS & WEAPONS FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT 63
NEWEST L.E. GEAR FROM IACP SOG POWERLOCK TRAVELER The PowerLock Traveler is a SOG workhorse featuring flip opening, locking components, and a synthetic sheath with belt clip. Additionally, this tool is designed to follow the specific carry-on regulations of the United States Transportation Security Administration. The PowerLock Traveler complies with TSA regulations as of August 2014, and has been tested in airports around the world for travel-approved tools (visit www.tsa.gov for full details). Please remember that travel regulations may vary from country to country, and approval of travel compliance may be revoked by a TSA agent at any time. Available in satin or black. it features 13 tools including; screwdrivers, bottle opener, scissors and more. Comes with a sheath standard. For more information, visit sogknives.com or call 888-405-6433.
OLIGHT M18 MAVERICK Olight has developed the M18 Maverick to stand apart from the competition. With three brightness levels ranging from 5 to 500 lumens, it is a versatile workhorse. Another unique feature is a side switch to select modes with a memory function to remember the last power setting used as well as a low-battery indicator. No more running through the modes on your light again and again to find your preferred setting. Surrounding the single-die CREE XM-L2 LED light unit is an aircraft-grade aluminum body with anti-scratch Type III hardcoat anodizing. It’s a wellmade light that can serve as well on patrol as it would in daily life. For more information, visit olightworld. com or call 714-893-1300.
ESS CROSSBOW PHOTOCHROMIC A longtime player in tactical eyewear, ESS has managed once again to unveil a fresh innovation. New this year are the Crossbow Photochromic glasses. These glasses are created using Transition Optics lenses and are quick to move from clear glasses for indoor use to sunglasses for outside. They are coated with a proprietary ClearZone FlowCoat that minimizes scratches. With a unique locking design you can easily switch lenses without any fear of them coming loose under impact. The ability to have one reliable and comfortable pair of glasses for indoors and out makes this new product a highlight of the show. For more information, visit esseyepro.com or call 877-726-4072.
64 GUNS & WEAPONS FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT • FEB/MAR 2015
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SMART FIREARMS SF3 There are countless important topics to teach new shooters and officers. One of the most critical skills is avoiding having their finger on the trigger when it is inappropriate. Smart Firearms has introduced an ingenious solution. The SF3 is a hearty training weapon that detects and beeps when a student’s finger enters the triggerguard. This is a solid training device for agencies working defensive tactics and weapon retention drills. Well-made and solid, it is designed to last through years of training before any need for replacement. In use by over 32 agencies already, it will soon be a commonplace tool in every training center. For more information, visit smartfirearms.us or call 602-690-0513.
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FEB/MAR 2015 • GUNS & WEAPONS FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT 65
NEWEST L.E. GEAR FROM IACP STEINER M5XI MILITARY 1-5X24MM
“
...law enforcement leaders from around the world were able to meet to discuss policy and methodologies while still being able to explore mission-critical products.
“
Variable-power scopes for carbines and fighting rifles are growing in popularity. The challenge has been to find an optic that is truly 1x when dialed all the way down. Steiner Optics has heard the cry and brought a solution to market. The M5Xi 1-5x24mm scope is designed for fighting rifles. With a true 1x magnification, it allows for both-eyes-open shooting at close distances and a 5x zoom for targets at longer distances. Built on a 30mm tube with a Rapid Dot reticle calibrated for 5.56mm ammo, the M5Xi is a leader in its class. For more information, visit steiner-optics.com or call 888228-7747.
BERETTA 1301 TACTICAL
Sean Utley photo
Beretta is a well-known and respected name in the firearms world. One of its newest products has been the point of many discussions and buzz in the tactical community. The 1301 Tactical is Beretta’s newest gas-operated, semiautomatic shotgun. Primarily designed for law enforcement, it can easily serve in the home-defense role as well. With an 18.5-inch barrel, it is easily manipulated in small spaces without any sacrifice of performance. Complete with an oversized charging handle, a large textured bolt release and a reversible safety, it is an ergonomic dream. For more information, visit berettausa.com or call 800-636-3420.
66 GUNS & WEAPONS FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT • FEB/MAR 2015
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NEWEST L.E. GEAR FROM IACP
VIEVU2
THORSHIELD A growing threat faced by law enforcement agencies around the country is the use of Tasers and other stun devices against officers. The engineers at ThorShied have developed a unique fabric to help protect officers from potential debilitating shocks. ThorShield works by providing a highly conductive layer of fabric. The purpose of the fabric is to conduct any electrical charge through the fabric and away from your body. This material can be incorporated into any cloth-type duty gear, such as uniforms, body armor or gloves. It is lightweight and breathable, making it a true innovation. For more information, visit thorshield.com.
“
“
Body cameras have become as common on officers as their duty belts and badges. A leader in this technology is VIEVU, and it has a new camera to meet the needs of agencies large and small. The VIEVU2 is a rugged, waterproof camera designed to be run hands free. Its most unique feature is that, along with downloads, it can stream real-time video to an iPhone or Android device. No desktop computer is required. Additionally, you’re able to choose the resolution you record in. This is important for agencies that are challenged by storing large amounts of HD video. Built out of military-grade anodized aluminum, the device holds up to 16 GB of video. Lightweight and easy to use, this is a camera to consider. For more information, visit vievu.com or call 888-285-4548.
The IACP is the premier meeting of its kind and has once again outdone itself.
PHALANX DEFENSE SYSTEMS STEALTH OPERATOR HOLSTER The Stealth Operator Holster Series is a family of lightweight, low-profile holsters developed to provide low-print, and maximum concealment. The unique, contoured design allows for a comfortable, secure fit for many handgun models with uncompromising retention. Featuring a Frame-Lock secure fit technology, which ensures positive retention, your handgun locks into the holster and will stay secure until you need it. It is constructed of high quality nylon, a material well known for its durability and longevity. Fits belts up to 1.5 inches wide. For more information, visit phalanxsystems.com or call 352-727-4884. Jorge Amselle Photo
68 GUNS & WEAPONS FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT • FEB/MAR 2015
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EVERYDAY HEROES BY BRIAN HAUGHTON
A LIFE OF SERVICE
Sgt. Ray Fanelli of the Falls Township, Pennsylvania, Police Department.
Sgt. Ray Fanelli, who has served for 17 years now and has EMT training, inspects his medical gear before he starts his tour.
It takes a special breed of men and women to take up the calling and enter the ranks of the law enforcement profession. They are folks who proudly wear a badge to protect and serve, and due to the character of the work, naturally find themselves doing heroic and rewarding deeds daily. This brings us to the idea of featuring these exceptional people in the “Everyday Hero” column. The candidates for selection are numerous across the country, but one fellow came to my attention recently, and he is Sergeant Ray Fanelli of the Falls Township, Pennsylvania, Police Department, located in the suburbs of Philadelphia. Although, like most cops, he would not bring attention to himself for recognition, I thought of him when this project started.
70 GUNS & WEAPONS FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT • FEB/MAR 2015
Sgt. Ray Fanelli, stands ready to serve his community.
When I asked him why he became a cop, Ray said, “I always felt that particular calling inside of me for serving others. I joined the U.S. Army at 17 years of age, going on to become a Military Police officer, serving honorably for 5 years. I then returned home to pursue a career in police work.” He’s served for 17 years now, and he’s the son of a retired Philadelphia Sheriff’s Office K-9 officer. His younger brother is also a Falls Township Police Department sergeant. I first met Ray when he volunteered to address some police recruits from a neighboring department and help train them to respond to bullet wounds and apply tourniquets. He was there on his own time, greatly aiding in the hands-on portion of the instruction, as well as sharing with these future cops an incident he responded to recently. It was then that I learned of this exceptional job.
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A LIFE OF SERVICE He was the first to respond to a medical call for a patient with severe crush injuries. The middle-aged male had industrial equipment accidently fall on his right leg, causing major damage to the skin tissue and bone, accompanied by heavy bleeding. Immediately, Ray’s training as an EMT-B kicked in, and he utilized the latest addition to his medical equipment, a tourniquet. He placed the tourniquet above
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The doctor described Ray as a ‘fine example of the first responder; diligent, quick thinking and capable of working independently for the benefit of the community.’
“
the victim’s mangled lower leg as the man went unconscious. Ray’s quick action stopped this man’s major loss of life-sustaining blood prior to rescue arriving, and the male was then transported safely to the trauma center.
Sgt. Ray Fanelli is also a member of the SWAT team for the Falls Township Police Department, which helps keep the peace and protect its citizens just outside of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
In an unusual event for most cops, a week later, Ray learned of a letter that was sent to his police chief by the attending physician at the hospital. The doctor expressed his gratitude and wished to acknowledge Ray’s “exemplary efforts” in helping the injured man. The doctor described Ray as a “fine example of the first responder; diligent, quick thinking and capable of working inde-
72 GUNS & WEAPONS FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT • FEB/MAR 2015
pendently for the benefit of the community.” Although the victim eventually lost his lower leg, I know Sgt. Ray Fanelli played a major role in assuring this man survived his unfortunate event. I, too, wish to congratulate Ray on a job well done, as he is a credit to his department and to all the other police and first responders everywhere that fall into the category of being an “everyday hero.”
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The Smith & Wesson M&P R8 is truly a 21st century design with rails for sights, lights and lasers. Shown with an Aimpoint CompC3 sight and an EOTech/Insight M6X.
My first centerfire handgun was a Smith & Wesson Model 28 Highway Patrolman revolver. This .357 Mag sixgun was built on the rugged N-Frame, the same as that used on the S&W Model 29 .44 Mag. This big wheelgun was the test bed for my foray into handloading, and it gobbled up some horrendous loads constructed with hardcast, 158-grain SWC bullets backed by healthy doses of 2400, H110 and W296 powder and sparked with magnum primers. That being said, I’ve always had a soft spot for N-Frames and have a number in my personal collection. Another favorite is the S&W Registered .357 Mag, which was later called the Model 27. I have an early post-war “Pre-27” with a 5-inch barrel—a barrel length that I favor on both revolvers and autoloaders. So it would only be natural that I was drawn to the Smith & Wesson M&P (Military & Police) R8 revolver from the S&W
74 GUNS & WEAPONS FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT • FEB/MAR 2015
Performance Center. Here we have a revolver that I would have given my teeth for back in the day when I carried a wheelgun as my service sidearm while a youthful LEO. Not only is the M&P R8 an N-Frame, but it has a 5-inch barrel, plus the largediameter stainless steel cylinder is bored with eight chambers for the powerful .357 Mag (or .38 Special +P) cartridge.
GUN DETAILS The M&P R8 is a 21st century service revolver—it defies conventional designs in several ways. Besides the high-capacity, stainless steel cylinder, the R8 has a scandium alloy frame that keeps its weight down to 36.3 ounces unloaded. The barrel is a two-piece affair with a steel shroud that is held in place at the muzzle by a special nut that maintains tension on the barrel, increasing its accuracy potential. The bottom portion of the barrel shroud forms an ejector rod shroud or underlug, and ahead of that is an integral accessory rail. The top of the shroud acts as a ramp for the interchangeable front sight blade, and it’s also the attachment point for another accessory rail that runs from the middle of the shroud
back over the topstrap, a little over an inch from the fully adjustable rear sight. Speaking of the rear sight, it has a V-notch unlike the square notches of 99.9 percent of S&W’s other handguns. I think the purpose here was to have the white dot on the front sight center itself into the rear V-notch for the correct sight picture. The shroud also contains the slot wherein fits the ball-detent of the forward locking point on this revolver. The M&P R8 incorporates all the modern changes S&W has made to its revolver designs. Gone are the pinned barrel, pressed-in cylinder stop, hammermounted firing pin, and tiny pins to hold the extractor star in position. In place is a frame-mounted firing pin, a cylinder stop integral with the recoil shield, angular cuts in the ends of the extractor star arms that keep it in position, plus a key-operated internal safety lock. The traditional thumb latch has been redesigned to a more oval shape, and there’s now a stainless steel insert above the rear of the barrel to prevent topstrap cutting by propellant gases. The hammer might best be called a semi-target design with a slightly en-
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WESSON & M&PR8 EIGHT-SHOT .357 MAGNUM packed with duty-ready, 21st century enhancements! By William Bell • Photos courtesy Smith & Wesson
larged spur that is checkered and rounded at the rear. The trigger has a smooth face and is about 0.27 inches wide. In keeping with its Performance Center origins, the M&P R8 has a smooth double-action (DA) pull and a crisp, clean single-action (SA) pull. I also noted that the chambers in the cylinder are chamfered for easier insertion of cartridges, especially if using the moon clips or a speedloader. The black synthetic grip has finger grooves and pebble-textured panels on the sides. To be honest, I doubt any LE agency will be adopting the M&P R8 for general issue. This handgun will appeal more to the LEO who has some latitude in what he or she can carry as a service sidearm and belongs to an organization that either specifies or allows privately owned firearms. For me, what comes to mind are smaller and rural LE outfits where officers or deputies purchase their own handguns for duty use. The M&P R8 could have a great deal of appeal for the LEO who prefers
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the functionality of the wheelgun over the autoloader. Another use might be with a specialized team, such as SWAT or a fugitive squad, where eight rounds of .357 Mag firepower could be beneficial. For uniform or special team use, there’s also the necessity for a duty holster. Needless to say, at this point there aren’t a lot of holsters out there for the M&P R8. My first thought was Uncle Mike’s Sidekick. This is a high-riding, black Cordura nylon holster with an adjustable safety retention snap that will fit many different revolvers and is much like the old Threepersonsstyle holster that was a mainstay in LE for many years. Another rig I found is the ProTech Outdoors Intimidator. This is another high-ride, black Cordura nylon holster, and it attaches to the belt using either a steel clip or a tunnel-type belt loop. It has a thumb-break retention strap; the
The R8 has an integral cylinder stop, a frame-mounted firing pin and a ball-detent in the underlug that serves as the forward lockup point.
SMITH & WESSON M&P R8
SMITH & WESSON M&P R8 The barrel shroud features an accessory rail. Note the M&P markings and the integral front sight ramp.
inner strap is made of rigid plastic, allowing a smooth break for a more rapid draw. Unlike the Sidekick, the Intimidator has a covered triggerguard for added safety. For carrying extra moon clips, I found that Uncle Mike’s Universal Speedloader case with Velcro closures worked just fine on a nylon duty belt. Okay, so the M&P R8 has those upper and lower accessory rails—let’s use them. Enter the Viridian C5L-R. This compact, lightweight device houses an Elite red laser sight with a 5-milliwatt peak/635nm optimum wavelength that allows daylight targeting at distances up to 25 yards. Added to this is a Radiance tactical light that pro-
SPECIFICATIONS
PERFORMANCE
Caliber: .357 Mag/.38 Special Barrel: 5 inches • OA Length: 10.5 inches
Load
Weight: 36.3 ounces (empty) Grip: Synthetic Sights: White-dot front, adjustable rear Action: DA/SA • Finish: Matte black Capacity: 8-shot • MSRP: $1,329
CorBon 125 JHP PMC Starfire 150 JHP Speer Gold Dot 158 JHP
vides 100 lumens in constant-on or 140 lumens in strobe mode. This whole package comes in a unit that measures 1.76 inches long, 1.13 inches tall and 1.25 inches wide. The body of the C5L-R is constructed of Zytel polymer, and it weighs a scant 1.66 ounces with a CR2 lithium battery. The unit’s Enhanced Combat Readiness (ECR) activation lets you select from several light/ laser combinations. It’s fitted with a claw mount that is easy on/off using a large screw that has a knurled head and is slot-
76 GUNS & WEAPONS FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT • FEB/MAR 2015
Velocity Accuracy
1556 1,178 1,224
2.47 1.79 1.33
Bullet weight measured in grains, velocity in fps by chronograph, and accuracy in inches for best five-shot groups at 25 yards.
ted for a penny. This arrangement allows the device to be attached in seconds when needed and removed for normal holster carry. The laser sight makes sense, especially for situations where a ballistic shield restricts the use of regular iron sights. A green laser is also available.
RANGE TIME I chose three .357 Mag loads to test the M&P R8 at the range. First was the CorBon 125-grain JHP load, which the company
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lists as having a velocity of 1,450 fps. This ammunition features a controlled-expansion bullet with a serrated jacket that assures the bullet will mushroom to twice its diameter. Next I selected the Starfire load
from PMC. This cartridge has a unique 150-grain JHP bullet with a deep hollow point that incorporates a rib and flute design. This gives the hollow cavity a “flower petal” appearance, and combined with the
MODEL 66 RETURNS “How many of you remember the big red blob on the end of your gun when shooting under stress?” I asked in a training class not too long ago. Several of the older guys in the back of the room sat up a little straighter and raised their hands. They remembered the days when their sheriff issued his deputies the old Smith & Wesson Model 66 Combat Magnum. During the class break, those same deputies talked fondly of the old .357 Mag revolvers, and how they wouldn’t mind carrying them today. Missing from the company’s lineup for several years, the Model 66 has returned to the Smith & Wesson catalog. Like the original revolver, the new Model 66 is chambered for one of the most effective handgun cartridges ever created: the .357 Mag. The gun will, of course, also shoot the weaker .38 Special loads. NEW & IMPROVED: Just like the classic Model 66 revolvers, these K-Frame guns are made of stainless steel. The front sight has the trademark red ramp, and the adjustable rear sight has a white outline. There are a number of differences in the new guns that owners of the classic revolvers might notice. For example, current Model 66 revolver frames have round butts instead of the square butts that many of the older revolvers had. Consequently, the new guns have utilitarian rubber grips instead of traditional hardwood grips. The Model 66 has a matte stainless finish with the trigger, hammer and cylinder release accented in black. The new guns have 4.25-inch barrels that use a two-piece design. The cylinder also uses a ball-detent on the cylinder crane, rather than on the ejector rod, to provide a tighter lockup. Comparing the new revolver to several of my older S&W wheelguns, I can say that the Model 66 is definitely tighter. ROUNDS DOWNRANGE: Shooting the Model 66 was a real joy. The double-action pull is smooth, while the single-action pull is crisp and as good as any factory gun I’ve shot in the recent past. Even with full-bore, 158-grain .357 Mag duty loads, the recoil is very manageable. Remington 125-grain Golden Saber rounds were easy shooting as Magnum loads go, and were very accurate to boot. As expected, the red insert in the front sight was very easy to pick up, and getting shots on target was very fast. I don’t expect that any police department will trade in its current semi-automatic duty pistols for the new Model 66 revolvers. But that doesn’t mean these guns aren’t still exceptional guns for home defense and a little off-duty target shooting. For a few veteran law enforcers, the Model 66’s classic look and feel will remind them of a trusted partner from years gone by. For more information, visit smith-wesson. com or call 800-331-0852. — By Richard Johnson
SMITH & WESSON MODEL 66 Caliber: .357 Mag/.38 Special +P Barrel: 4.25 inches • OA Length: 9.68 inches Sights: Red ramp front, white-outlined rear Weight: 36.6 ounces • Grip: Synthetic Action: DA/SA • Finish: Stainless Capacity: 6-shot • MSRP: $849
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Smith & Wesson’s new Model 66s have rubber grips and black controls.
FEB/MAR 2015 • GUNS & WEAPONS FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT 77
SMITH & WESSON M&P R8
The M&P R8’s steel cylinder holds eight cartridges, and the locking notches are slightly offset for cylinder strength. The hammer spur is a semi-target design for an enhanced purchase.
notched jacket, this bullet has outstanding expansion and penetration characteristics. From Speer I picked a 158-grain Gold Dot HP load. This bullet is actually electroplated with a “jacket” and is punch-formed to give it a cup-like hollow point. The nose of this bullet is notched and serrated to improve expansion using the FBI test protocol. Now it was time to put the Smith M&P R8 to the test. My first step was to see what kind of velocities would be generated from the revolver’s 5-inch barrel, so I set up my chronograph to get some readings. The CorBon load was a real scorcher, while the PMC Starfire was more akin to .38 +P+. The Speer Gold Dot HP round was more of what I would expect of a contemporary .357 Mag cartridge. Before installing anything on the R8’s accessory rails, I wanted to see what it would do with just the iron sights, so I put up bullseye targets at the 25-yard mark. Shooting atop a sandbag rest from the bench in SA mode, I triggered three 5-shot groups with each of the test loads. I found the point of aim (POA) had to be adjusted slightly for each bullet weight—higher for the CorBon and lower for the Gold Dot. I managed to keep everything in the black, and my tightest cluster measured 1.33 inches with the Speer Gold Dot. It also had the best group average, followed in second place by the PMC Starfire. Additionally, I did not use moon clips during this test phase, as they are not mandatory to shoot the M&P R8 and won’t add or subtract anything as far as the accuracy potential is concerned. (Please turn to page 100)
78 GUNS & WEAPONS FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT • FEB/MAR 2015
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TRIPWIRE OPERATIONS GROUP Providing top-tier products and training for EOD operators and more! Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, was the scene of the most climatic battle of the Civil War. During this conflict, over 90,000 Union and 70,000 Confederate troops met in what would be the turning point of that great conflict. That battle saw each side receive over 23,000 casualties. On the third day of the battle, at around 1:00 p.m., 150 to 170 Confederate guns began an artillery bombardment of the Union lines in what was perhaps the largest of the war. In short order, 80 Union cannons answered that bombardment until 3:00 p.m. When the cannon fire subsided, 12,500 Confederate soldiers stepped from the ridgeline and advanced the three-quarters of a mile to Cemetery Ridge in what is known to history as “Pickett’s Charge.” The Confederates suffered a casualty rate over 50 percent, losing over 6,000 men, many of whom were lost to Union cannon fire. For a location revered in the annals of history as the pivotal moment that changed the prospects for the war, due in large part to the amount of explosives used on the battlefield, it
Explosives and guns go hand in hand, and Tripwire Operations Group offers training in both to help first responders save lives.
seems appropriate to house an explosives business there. Tripwire Operations Group is proud to call Gettysburg home.
FIRST RESPONDERS
Tripwire Operations Group is a company founded and run by first responders who are dedicated to ensuring that first responders have all the training and skills necessary to keep America safe. The staff at Tripwire believes that “the most highly trained create a safer America.” Tripwire provides a full range of services for first responders and those tasked with protecting people. These services include a research, development and evaluation division, an explosives sales and training division, K9 training and its new special effects division. If a first responder needs it, Tripwire might be able to provide it.
FIREARMS & MORE
Tripwire holds a Class 3 ATF license allowing the company to create and manufacture different variations of firearms for first responders.
Some of the unique items Tripwire has created include the Posi-Lock Chassis, fitted to the Remington 700 action, which was designed from the ground up for stability and adaptability. It weighs only 3.06 pounds and accepts the LEAP stock or any collapsible AR-15 stock. It’s also customizable with AR-15 triggerguards and grips. The body of the chassis incorporates two integral Picatinny rail sections. The one at the forward end of the chassis is intended for a bipod as well as a 3-inch-wide block for F Class bench shooters. For a hunting chassis you could attach a sling swivel. This stock also features an integrated magazine well that accepts magazines from Accuracy International and Accurate-Mag. The chassis is machined to 0.03 inches of linear movement for the bolt, so the recoil lug will make a positive lock against the lug wall, and the surface has been hardcoat anodized per military specifications, making it stable and abrasion resistance. The LEAP stock from Tripwire is made in the U.S.A. and is the one of the lightest, ergonomic, adjustable precision stocks I found on the market to date. The stock is made entirely of 6061-T6 aluminum with a military-grade hardcoat anodizing. At only 28 (Please turn to page 105)
Tripwire trainees learn the complexities of detecting and defusing bombs. The company also offers several K9 courses (far left). Photos Courtesy Tripwire
80 GUNS & WEAPONS FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT • FEB/MAR 2015
GUNS-WEAPONS.com
NEW PRODUCTS BCM GUNFIGHTER STOCK
LIMITLESS GEAR OPFOR Limitless Gear recently unveiled the OPFOR 5.56 AR-15 Magazine Carrier, which features two new and exclusive technologies that immediately enhance the user’s lethality and operational adaptability. First, the Rapidly Scalable Equipment Ensemble (RSEE), a new MOLLE/PALS-compatible attachment system, allows you to mount and dismount the OPFOR in seconds. Second, the Positive Magazine Retention (PMR) eliminates the need for flaps or bungee cords that obstruct access to magazines. The OPFOR automatically locks magazines in place, just like in a weapon’s magazine well, and makes them easy to withdraw by applying a natural twist and pull. For more information, visit limitlessgear.com or call 434-260-9729.
The new Bravo Company Manufacturing (BCM) Gunfighter stock features a streamlined, snagfree design. This new stock fits all mil-spec-sized buffer tubes and doesn’t need the additional external tension adjustment that other units do. A large adjustment latch runs over half the length of the underside, making adjustments easy. BCM patented the internals, with the main locking piece made from a heat-treated steel alloy, as compared to the more typical single pin found in other adjustable stocks. For more information, visit bravocompanyusa.com or call 877-272-8626.
COMP-TAC BLUE KYDEX Comp-Tac recently unveiled a special new blue kydex color for its popular holsters and gear. The Blue Kydex is available in all outside-thewaistband products offered by Comp-Tac, including the International and Paddle holsters, single-magazine pouches, twin-magazine pouches, the Belt Feed, AR magazine pouches, flashlight holsters and pepper spray carriers. Many firearm users prefer to accessorize their gear with different options and colors. Comp-Tac wants to give all customers the option to choose gear that compliments their unique and individual preferences. For more information, visit comp-tac.com or call 866-441-9157.
TAGUA 4-IN-1 HOLSTER DESERT TECH MDR The new MDR (Micro Dynamic Rifle) and MDR-C (Compact) were designed for extreme adaptability and portability while setting a new standard for speed and precision. Each bullpup-style rifle is lightweight, compact and ergonomically balanced, and Desert Tech designed them so that they can be used by both right- and left-handed operators. Users can also swap between five calibers— 5.56mm NATO, 300 BLK, 6.8 SPC, 7.62mm NATO and 7.62x39mm—and two configurations while retaining barrel zeroes without needing to compensate for any impact shifts. For more information, visit deserttech.com or call 801-975-7272.
The new 4-In-1 Holster from Tagua Gunleather is one of the most versatile holster designs to hit the market in the United States. It is designed to easily and safely conceal your handgun in four positions: inside the waistband, on the belt, behind the back and in a cross-draw position. Available in left- or right-hand models in black or brown, the 4-In-1 is designed to fit a number of popular semi-autos and revolvers, from 1911s to the Ruger LCR. Tagua also offers the 4-In-1 with a snap for easy attachment. For more information, call 866-638-2482 or visit taguagunleather.com.
82 GUNS & WEAPONS FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT • FEB/MAR 2015
PARABON SNAPSHOT The Parabon Snapshot Forensic DNA Analysis Service helps generate new investigative leads by predicting the physical appearance of an individual from a DNA sample. Snapshot takes advantage of modern SNP technology, translating select biomarkers from a DNA sample found at a crime scene into predictions about various physical traits of its source. Using these predictions, Snapshot generates a descriptive profile that contains sex, ancestry, pigmentation (skin color, hair color, eye color, freckling) and even face morphology. For more information, visit snapshot.parabon-nanolabs.com or call 703-689-9689.
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GUN TEST
Fast-handling Home Defense Tactical shotgun with semi-auto speed and unstoppable reliability!
ESCORT TAC By D.K. Pridgen
S
ince their invention, shotguns
tion for producing quality firearms. The
muzzle. Atop the barrel is a red fiber-optic
have been visually and ballis-
Escort Home Defense Tactical is one of
front sight with protective wings. Beneath
what folks call “the other black guns”—a
the barrel is a five-shot mag tube with a
shotgun. In this case, it’s a gas-operated
rotating sling swivel stud on the tube cap.
tically impressive weapons, both positive features in the
semi-automatic shotgun that Legacy
The Escort Home Defense has a
markets as a “home-defense tactical”
slightly-longer-than-normal forend sur-
I’m not saying that the mere sight of a
model. I think that description is meant to
rounding the magazine tube. The extra
shotgun causes people to run or faint in
indicate the Escort can function equally
length is to accommodate a bottom
fear, although only the densest of individ-
well in the hands of a homeowner or
Picatinny rail about 4 inches long—a
uals can look down the muzzle and not
those who go into harm’s way, such as
perfect location for a light/laser combina-
feel some trepidation. Being impressed is
law enforcement officers. I recently got
tion unit, such as the new Crimson Trace
not enough to stop many from continu-
my hands on the Escort Home Defense
Rail Master Pro with a green laser.
ing their threat. That is where the ballistic
to determine how accurate that descrip-
impressiveness comes into play. A hail of
tion really was.
law enforcement world.
buckshot—eight 00 pellets at a time—is frequently enough to stop a threat or cause them to change their mind.
GUN DETAILS The semi-auto Escort Home Defense
Behind the barrel is a receiver made of aircraft-grade aluminum alloy that has been hardcoat anodized black. The receiver, the heart of the system, for the Escort Home Defense is CNC machined
features an 18-inch, nickel-chromium-
to ensure everything is true and the toler-
number of firearms, including the Escort
molybdenum steel barrel chambered for
ances are just right.
line built by Hatsan Arms Company of
3-inch shells, with a muzzle brake ex-
Turkey, which has an enviable reputa-
tending about 2 inches past the threaded
Legacy Sports International imports a
84 GUNS & WEAPONS FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT • FEB/MAR 2015
The steel bolt has an extended handle and is black chromed for increased
GUNS-WEAPONS.com
Photo courtesy Legacy Sports
The Escort Home Defense from Legacy Sports is an all-business 12 gauge that arrives loaded with plenty of duty-ready features.
CTICAL 12 GA durability and corrosion resistance.
holder for two extra shells. Completing
crunchy and weighed about 7.5 pounds,
Toward the front of the receiver is a
the buttstock is a nice padded buttpad.
which is not unusual for a shotgun. They
magazine cutoff button that allows you
At 14.5 inches, the length of pull on
are not normally called upon to serve
to change loads in the chamber without
the Escort Home Defense may be a little
as precision firearms. I also removed
loading a round from the tubular maga-
long for some users, including women
the forend and examined the Home De-
zine. The cutoff is very easy to reach
who might pick the shotgun up to defend
fense’s operating system. It appeared to
and operate. A top Picatinny rail runs
hearth and home. Similarly, female LEOs
be similar in many ways to Remington’s
the full length of the receiver, and it’s
or anyone smaller in stature may find
semi-auto 1100 series.
fitted with a fully adjustable ghost-ring
the Home Defense’s length of pull a bit
Shotguns designated for duty use
rear sight protected by wings. The rear
much. A shorter length of pull would be
need optical sights to allow officers to
sight also features two green fiber-optic
more beneficial, especially for LEOs
fire them easily with both eyes open,
inserts—one on each side of the ghost
wearing body armor. Nonetheless,
and for shotguns I prefer a smaller red
ring—that work well with the red front
from toe to muzzle, the Home Defense
dot. There is no need to add unneces-
sight, a nice touch.
comes out of the box as a well-designed,
sary weight. I had an EOTech MRDS
self-defense/LEO shotgun with a good
on hand to add to the Home Defense.
selection of accoutrements.
Bright and clear with great visibility and
The polymer triggerguard is enlarged for glove use. Behind it is a crossbolt safety. The black polymer buttstock has an integral sling swivel stud. It also has an integral pistol grip
SIGHTS & LASER Before heading to the range I
a quick-on-target, 3.5-MOA dot, the MRDS’ small footprint minimizes any field-of-view blockage, and the batteries
with horizontally grooved, slightly tacky
checked the Escort Home Defense’s
can be replaced from the top without
rubbery inserts and an integral shell
trigger pull and found it was slightly
having to remove the sight.
GUNS-WEAPONS.com
FEB/MAR 2015 • GUNS & WEAPONS FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT 85
ESCORT TACTICAL 12 GA
An easily adjustable ghost ring sight rides the top rail and is protected by wings. The ghost ring has two green fiber-optic inserts.
The tall front sight post features a bright red fiber-optic insert for fast targeting as well as large protective wings.
The forend rail is perfect for adding lights or lasers, such as Crimson Trace’s Rail Master Pro with a green laser.
On the MRDS I added a Strike Industries cover that I like. It is made from hard yet flexible thermoplastic polyurethane and increases the MRDS’ impact resistance. The MRDS cover does not interfere with the EOTech’s functions or adjustments. Good stuff! Aside from the excellent effectiveness, durability and functionality of the Crimson Trace Rail Master Pro with a green laser (green is quite visible in daylight), the green dot cannot get confused with the MRDS’ red dot.
RANGE TIME At the range I began by randomly stuffing several brands of birdshots and target shells into the Home Defense. Func-
86 GUNS & WEAPONS FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT • FEB/MAR 2015
GUNS-WEAPONS.com
Photo courtesy Legacy Sports
ESCORT HOME DEFENSE tioning with these loads is an excellent test for semi-auto shotguns. After all, in training birdshot and target shells are an economical solution for an agency or individual office. Happily, the Escort cranked right along, spitting pellets downrange and empties on the ground. Legacy advertises the Home Defense as capable of a “sub-second cycle rate,” a claim my timer supported. I fed the Home Defense a mixture of birdshot, reduced-recoil buckshot and slugs. When the smoke cleared I had no shotgun shells in the magazine and all I had done was pull the trigger. Not a single falter! Patterning the Escort revealed this cylinder-bore shotgun produced patterns like, well, a cylinder-bore shotgun! At 15
GUNS-WEAPONS.com
SPECIFICATIONS
PERFORMANCE
Caliber: 12 (3-inch chamber) Barrel: 18 inches OA Length: 39 inches Weight: 6.85 pounds (empty) Stock: Synthetic Sights: Fiber-optic front and rear Action: Semi-auto Finish: Matte black Capacity: 5+1 • MSRP: $529
Buckshot
Pattern
Hornady TAP Light Magnum (8 pellets) Remington 00 Managed Recoil (8 pellets) Winchester Ranger 00 LE (8 pellets) Slug
6.25 7.10 8.25 Accuracy
Federal Tactical LE Truball Remington Managed Recoil
2.15 1.95
Buckshot pattern measured in inches at 15 yards and slug accuracy in inches for three-shot group at 25 yards.
yards, all of the brands did well, keeping all the pellets on silhouette targets. Moving beyond 15 yards, each load performed differently, but I would not want to exceed 20 yards with buckshot. Slugs, thanks to the EOTech MRDS, are definitely good at 25 yards and beyond. Of course, this all could
change with another barrel. That’s why you should pattern serious social shotguns. At this point I switched to my usual exercises to see how the Escort performed in more realistic situations. The shotgun handled well and was easy to maneuver with. I really like the design of the pistol grip. Re-
FEB/MAR 2015 • GUNS & WEAPONS FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT 87
ESCORT TACTICAL 12 GA Photo courtesy Legacy Sports
Two extra shells can be carried in the shotgun’s stock. Also note the grooved, recoil-absorbing pistol grip.
A top rail for adding optics runs the full length of the receiver, and the extended charging handle is another great addition.
The Escort Home Defense features an enlarged triggerguard for glove use, and the crossbolt safety is easy to reach.
coil was probably ameliorated by the semiauto action, which is never a bad thing. Removing the MRDS, I found the fiber-optic sights worked quickly and well.
FINAL NOTES Any complaints? Really only one: I’d like to see 1.5 inches lopped of the Escort’s stock (almost to the sling swivel stud) to make it a little easier to get it into action for shorter officers or those wearing vests. With an MSRP of $529, Legacy Sports’ Escort Home Defense is a good deal. It arrives with everything an officer should need for duty, except a light and an optical sight. For officers or departments in need of a fast, smooth and reliable self-loading shotgun, check out the Escort Home Defense. It could be just the ticket! For more information, visit legacysports.com or call 800-553-4229.
88 GUNS & WEAPONS FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT • FEB/MAR 2015
GUNS-WEAPONS.com
PATROL STEEL BY TIM STETZER
SOG FLASHBACK DEFENDER
Lightning-fast blade built for everyday carry and backup duties!
Steve Woods photo
SOG’s Flashback is a fast, easy-to-carry blade well suited to self-defense and utility work. Whether you’re a soldier, cop or regular Joe, it’s a great tool for folks who need a blade that’s quick to get into action.
handers. I could operate it by feel with my left hand with minimal practice, but it is more natural for a righty.
CARRY TESTING
The Flashback is a comfortable knife in hand. It has well-designed contours and a set of jimping on the spine that your thumb drops into naturally when you grasp the knife. The Standard model weighs
90 GUNS & WEAPONS FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT • FEB/MAR 2015
“
…only a quick flick with your thumb is needed for the spring to kick in and snap the blade open with a speed that rivals many autos.
GUNS-WEAPONS.com
Photo courtesy SOG Knives
Two Flashback versions are available, the Standard and the Mini, with drop-point blades. The Standard version also gives you the option for a tanto-style blade. All styles are available with either a hard-cased black titanium nitride finish or a satin finish. The blades, made from AUS-8 stainless steel treated to a 56-68 Rockwell hardness, are 3 inches long on the Mini and 3.5 inches long on the Standard model. The handles are made of stainless steel and glass-reinforced nylon, and a reversible deep-carry pocket clip is provided on all models. The Flashback features a piston lock that is easy to operate yet locks the knives up solidly. A safety mounted just past the midpoint on the left-hand grip keeps the knife from firing accidently in your pocket if that’s a concern for you. The real key to the Flashback is the assisted-opening mechanism. A set of dual studs affixed to the blade are used to open the knife, and only a quick flick with your thumb is needed for the spring to kick in and snap the blade open with a speed that rivals many autos. Pulling down on the piston lock allows you to close the blade, and you can feel the stout spring in the mechanism as you do so. It’s a very fast and positive mechanism that works equally well for right- or left-handers, although the lock itself is more geared towards right-
only 3.8 ounces, so it’s nimble in the hand and rides easily in the pocket, especially with the low-carry clip. The hollow-ground blade came with an excellent factory edge that held up well under use. The Flashback’s size and features make it a great choice for everyday carry, whether you just need a handy utility knife or a fast-opening backup blade. The MSRPs for the Flashback series range from $70 to $115 depending on whether you choose a Mini or Standard size and a satin or black hard-case titanium finish. Flashbacks are assembled in the U.S.A. and are covered by SOG’s lifetime warranty. For more information, visit sogknives.com or call 888-405-6433.
“
SOG Specialty Knives & Tools continues to bring out modern, everyday carry (EDC) and tactical tools, and one of its latest models is the assistedopening Flashback.
DANIEL DEFENSE M4V9LW Continued from page 44
the WML from Inforce. The WML is a polymer weapon light that is only 4.1 inches in length and weighs a mere 3 ounces. An integral mount reduces both its profile and its weight. A single CR123 lithium battery powers the WML and its 200-lumen LED. My test unit was a white light only that was set up with a momentary-only switch. The angled switch is easy to manipulate and eliminates the need for tape switches. Other options are available, including a white/ IR light for use with night-vision optics. Every rifle should have a sling. For the DDM4V9LW, I chose Blue Force Gear’s excellent Vickers 221 sling. The 221 is equipped with both the Rapid Emergency Detachment (RED) swivel and the Burnsed socket. The RED is a QD system that allows the user to detach the sling by applying 7 pounds of force to the conical knob. The sling-mounted Burnsed socket allows the sling to be configured for singlepoint use. The sling is extremely versatile, and its length can be adjusted with only one hand. The patented design eliminates having a long tail.
FINAL NOTES The DDM4V9LW is ideal for general use or as a law enforcement patrol rifle. The combination of the lightweight, 16-inch barrel and 15-inch handguard gives the rifle excellent balance. The longer handguard also provides additional protection for the barrel during hard use and/or storage. Even with the long handguard, the DDM4V9LW only weighs 6.34 pounds unloaded. The DDM4V5, which has a 12-inch rail and a standard-profile barrel, actually weighs more at 6.44 pounds. For users that prefer a standard-profile barrel, Daniel Defense offers the DDM4V9, which shares all the features of the Lightweight model and weighs 6.59 pounds. The absolute requirement for any weapon that is used by those who go into harm’s way is reliability. Daniel Defense is committed to building the best rifles humanly possible. I’ve visited the factory and met with many of the employees, and I came away with a feeling of pride knowing that my fellow Georgians were committed to Marty Daniel’s philosophy of “lighter, stronger, better.” The DDM4V9LW is only the latest in a long line of rifles that continues to set new standards for the industry. For more information, visit danieldefense.com or call 866-554-4867.
92 GUNS & WEAPONS FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT • FEB/MAR 2015
GUNS-WEAPONS.com
Mossberg’s MVP Patrol offers boltaction precision, 7.62mm power and box-mag-fed versatility. Shown with a UTG 3-9x32mm scope.
There is no doubt that in the world of patrol rifles, the 5.56mm AR-15 of some sort or another is the norm, not the exception, in the 21st century. Compact, reliable, accurate and effective for most situations, it is the standard against which all police long guns—and that includes the 12 gauge shotgun—are judged. While the AR can handle most situations well, there are times when more horsepower is needed. Barricaded suspects in heavily fortified structures, suspects at distances greater than an iron- or red-dot-sighted AR can handle or encounters with large, unfriendly, four-legged predators need a solution in .308/7.62mm NATO—a round that can sling a projectile downrange weighing nearly three times as much as the 5.56mm with a roughly 50-percent larger diameter. There are 7.62mm AR-platform rifles available, but for smaller agencies such as mine, they are a bit pricey, and semiautomatic operation is not always called for. With the 7.62mm’s power, it is not often that rapid follow-up shots are needed to do the job. The effect of a controlledexpansion 7.62mm round on dangerous targets is usually quite dramatic.
In the North Hollywood shootout in 1997, the LAPD found that its 9mm handguns and 12 gauge shotguns loaded with buckshot were woefully inadequate against two robbers wearing body armor and firing fully automatic, illegally modified 7.62x39mm rifles. Two of the officers involved were given AR-15s by a local gun store to deal with the threat. When one of the officers tried to use his AR, he found that he could not—he didn’t know how to operate it. I believe the officers in that shootout would have been better armed with any bolt-action hunting rifle with a telescopic sight than an AR-15. An ideal bolt-action rifle—had it been available then—would have been the new Mossberg MVP Patrol rifle.
GUN DETAILS Based upon the late Colonel Jeff Cooper’s “scout rifle” concept—sans the forward rail for mounting a longeye-relief scope—the MVP Patrol epitomizes a handy bolt-action repeat-
94 GUNS & WEAPONS FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT • FEB/MAR 2015
ing rifle designed for multi-tasking. It is capable of taking any animal on the North American continent with the right ammunition, and its compact 37.5-inch overall length, smooth bolt action and 10-round magazine capacity make it a capable defender against two- or fourlegged predators in particular. Mossberg’s MVP Patrol rifle is designed to thrive in rugged and lowmaintenance conditions. The barrel and action are given a durable matte blue finish. The sturdy synthetic stock is available in black or tan, and it has a tacky feel to it on the forend and pistol grip areas—an important feature in rainy, hot or snowy weather. There is an effective recoil pad on the butt, and sling mounts are included on the front and rear for adding a carry sling. Mossberg offers the MVP Patrol in 5.56mm NATO and 7.62mm NATO, which weigh 7 and 7.5 pounds, respectively. I was able to test the latter in 7.62mm NATO. While I am sure that the MVP Patrol could have been built to weigh GUNS-WEAPONS.com
GUN TEST
MOSSBERG MVP PATROL
7.62mm
Ultra-versatile bolt action can utilize AR- and M14-style magazines! By Scott W. Wagner • Sean Utley photos
less in this chambering, I was happy to have the extra weight to help mitigate recoil, as the recoil energy generated by the 7.62mm is significantly greater that that generated by the 5.56mm. Mossberg uses a medium-bull profile for the MVP’s 16.25-inch barrel, which is one of several factors critical for accuracy, since it is not the length of the barrel (generally) that determines intrinsic accuracy, but its stiffness. The Mossberg MVP Patrol’s medium-bull style barrel is an excellent compromise between benchrest accuracy and portability. The barrel’s twist rate is 1 in 10 inches. The free-floating barrel is also threaded for suppressor use and comes equipped with an AR-style birdcage flash suppressor. The flash suppressor is critical for preserving some semblance of night vision considering the amount GUNS-WEAPONS.com
Photo courtesy Mossberg
MOSSBERG MVP PATROL The buttstock features slingmounting points as well as a thick rubber buttpad for absorbing some of the recoil.
of burning powder exiting the short barrel in a cartridge as large as the 7.62mm.
LIGHTNING BOLT ACTION The MVP Patrol is intended to be used as a compact, multi-purpose precision rifle—not a CQB rifle—regardless of the caliber used. Its compactness is critical considering the cramped nature of any of the new sedan-style police cruisers currently available. In order to fulfill the precision aspect, there is a segment of Picatinny rail on top of the receiver for mounting optics, and backup iron sights are included. The MVP’s bolt action is very smooth for a production gun, and the spiral fluting on the push-feed bolt—a feature once found only on expensive custom rifles—allows for more rapid heat dispersion in extended firing strings and imparts a custom look. While the spiral fluting is not a feature that enhances the ability of a good shooter to deliver precision shots, the patented Lightning Bolt Action (LBA) adjustable trigger system certainly is. The LBA trigger uses a passively activated safety lever in the face of the trig-
ger. The gun will not fire unless the lever is compressed as part of the trigger stroke. This provides an extra margin of safety for a trigger that can be adjusted by the user anywhere within a range of 2 to 7 pounds by removing the stock and turning a screw in the front of the trigger mechanism. At a time when some companies have no such provision available for their precision guns, it certainly gives one another reason to select Mossberg over other choices that are available. The MVP comes equipped with a 10round magazine. When seated, the magazine protrudes just below the bottom of the triggerguard. The 10-round magazine is just about the right combination of capacity and compactness. The folks at Mossberg really did their homework when they designed this feeding system because the 7.62mm MVP Patrol accepts both M1A/M14 as well as LR-308/SR-25-style magazines. The 5.56mm MVP accepts all standard AR-15 magazines. If you want to use 20- or even 10-round magazines in your 7.62mm MVP, you won’t be dependent on proprietary magazines supplied by Mossberg.
MOSSBERG MVP PATROL SPECIFICATIONS
PERFORMANCE
Caliber: 7.62mm NATO Barrel: 16.25 inches OA Length: 37.5 inches • Stock: Synthetic Weight: 7.5 pounds (empty) Sights: Fiber-optic front, adjustable rear Action: Bolt • Finish: Matte black Capacity: 10+1 • MSRP: $726
Load
The magazine release, while perhaps not ideal for lightning-fast magazine changes, is still excellent. Mossberg wisely recessed the release button inside the stock, thus making it nearly impossible to accidentally drop the magazine. This is a great design that contributes to a very smooth stock contour. Swapping magazines becomes very quick with just a bit of practice. It’s easy to pull the magazine clear with your index finger pressing the release and your thumb supporting the rear of the magazine. If I were deploying the MVP as a precision rifle in a rural area where I had to traverse a fair amount of brushy territory or low-crawl to get into position, I could do so with the utmost confidence that I would reach my observation position with the magazine and ammo intact.
RANGE TIME In keeping with the compact size of the MVP, I decided to mount a compact yet effective optic. I chose the Nightforce NXS 2.5-10x scope with an illuminated reticle. The NXS covers a wide range of deployment situations, both near and far. I obtained three different loads for the test: Federal American Eagle 150-grain FMJs, Winchester 147-grain “White Box” FMJs, and Federal Premium 168-grain Sierra MatchKing rounds. To test out the MVP’s versatility, I brought along one of my department-issued M14’s 20-round magazines to see if it cycled as well as the Mossberg-supplied magazine. There were no surprises operationally in the entire range session. The MVP Patrol functioned well right out of the box. However, I had forgotten what the recoil from a relatively light, manually operated, 7.62mm repeater was like. I’ve spent most of my trigger time of late with various permutations of the 5.56mm AR-15, with most of my previous sniper rifle
Velocity Accuracy
Federal American Eagle 150 FMJ Federal Premium 168 SMK Winchester 147 FMJ
2,738 2,547 2,710
1.25 1.25 1.50
Bullet weight measured in grains, velocity in fps by chronograph, and accuracy in inches for best five-shot groups at 100 yards.
96 GUNS & WEAPONS FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT • FEB/MAR 2015
Photo courtesy Mossberg
GUNS-WEAPONS.com
The MVP Patrol sports a fiber-optic front sight, an A2-style flash suppressor (left) and an adjustable rear sight (above).
time behind a 6.8 SPC rig. My most recent experience with true high-powered .30 caliber rifles has been with my department-issued M14 and my personally owned M1 Garand. Both of these rifles weigh around 9.5 pounds. Their extra weight, combined with gas-operated, semi-automatic operation, really mitigates the felt recoil of these heavy hitters. Even with its well-designed synthetic stock, it took some time to adjust to the MVP’s recoil. I found seating the loaded MVP magazine was easier than inserting a magazine in any rifle I have recently tested. It slid into place smoothly and locked into the well without the need for undue pressure being applied—very nice. I was concerned at first that the 20-round M14 magazine might not insert so easily, but as soon as I began to insert it my concerns disappeared. The M14 magazine slid in and locked into
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FEB/MAR 2015 • GUNS & WEAPONS FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT 97
MOSSBERG MVP PATROL
The crisp Lightning Bolt Action (LBA) trigger features a safety toggle, and the pull weight is adjustable between 2 and 7 pounds.
The MVP Patrol comes with a 10-round magazine, and the rifle can use M1A and LR-308/SR-25-style magazines as well.
place just as smoothly as the Mossberg 10-round magazine and ejected just as easily. Having the capability to accept three different magazine styles really adds to the overall versatility of this type of rifle. I was able to obtain groups of 1.5 to 2 inches with both the Federal American Eagle and Winchester loads, while the Federal SMK loads gave me a 1.25-inch best group. The factory trigger was set a bit too light for my tastes— right around 2 pounds. If I were utilizing the MVP for patrol duties, I would increase the pull weight to around 4 pounds. Even on my sniper rifle I prefer a trigger in that same range. The “surprise” break at 2 pounds was almost too much of a surprise. I also ran a full 20 rounds from the M14 magazine in fairly rapid fire. If I were keeping this rifle for ranch and perimeter defense, I would definitely opt for the 20-round magazines. Even though they are longer than the 10-rounders, they aren’t so long that they interfere with handling or operation of the carbine. The Mossberg MVP Patrol is more than accurate enough for patrol and perimeter duties. If you are in the market for a scout-type rifle, the Mossberg MVP Patrol or one of its variants could be right for you. If the 7.62mm has too much “oomph,” perhaps you should check out the 5.56mm NATO version. For more information, visit mossberg.com or call 800-363-3555.
98 GUNS & WEAPONS FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT • FEB/MAR 2015
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ACTIVE-SHOOTER TAKEDOWNS Continued from page 16
the attention of anyone bent on the destruction of innocent lives. Recently, I’ve hit on another alternative— one that is more easily carried, accessed and likely to be available more often—the FN Five-seveN 5.7x28mm pistol. In previous testing, I’ve found that the flat-shooting 5.7x28mm round is capable of not only easy 100-yard hits (six of six solid on the silhouette) but also out to 200 yards, although my average drops to 50 percent or so at that range. In fact, my accuracy with the FiveseveN pistol is better than with the PS90 5.7x28mm carbine due to the crisper, lighter trigger pull. Weighing in at only 23 ounces unloaded, the Five-seveN holds 21 rounds of nearly recoil-free ammunition whose permanent ballistic cavity rivals Winchester’s 9mm, 127-grain +P+ Ranger load. Carried off-duty in a Drago Gear Sentry Pack with a total of 61 rounds available, I feel confident in my response capabilities with this combo. A new 1,100-lumen Streamlight ProTac HL3 tactical light rides in the pack for emergency illumination. If you are limited on space and permitted to carry a Five-seveN, you too may want to consider it as an option.
MOVING IN
Good gear isn’t enough. You also need the right mindset. Back when the QUAD model was the primary response methodology, off-duty and plainclothes responses were discouraged due to concerns of blueon-blue “friendly fire” incidents—and with good reason. However, with the shift to the single-officer emergency response plan of counterattack, an off-duty or plainclothes officer may be the first and only responder available, especially in remote areas. But that doesn’t mean that the danger of a blueon-blue shooting no longer exists. At the start of this article, I said that we must provide the safest and most effective response possible, and we have discussed the effectiveness part. This leaves a discussion of safety on the table. If you did not find yourself caught up in the middle of an active-shooter incident (as did an off-duty state police officer who was dropping his child off at school recently when the event began), but are planning on inserting yourself into the event, a greater measure of caution can be used to avoid blue-on-blue mistakes simply because you have more time to prepare. In an insertion intervention, several considerations come to mind. Are there other cops GUNS-WEAPONS.com
Eliminating an active shooter begins outside the scene. Here two officers—moving quickly without waiting for SWAT to arrive—are shown fully ready to fire as they approach a point of entry.
there already, and do they need or want your help? I would not run towards such a scene outside my jurisdiction to help with a rifle in hand. In the opening moments when the shooting is still occurring, no one knows or is sure who the shooter is, and anyone in street clothes with a gun in their hands could be the suspect. This is also why the AK-47 is never your gun of choice as a responder in these situations, despite how great a weapon it is. Sadly, it has too often been the gun of choice for the bad guys. Unless the AK is a department-permitted weapon and you are in your jurisdiction, don’t show up with one. Remember, too, that in the aftermath of all the anti-gun hysteria that followed the Sandy Hook massacre, in many places even the AR-15 is now seen as a bad guy gun as well, so keep it secured until you are identified as a good guy before bringing it into play. As part of my response gear in my vehicle, I carry a SWAT Level III armored vest with the words “police” plainly marked on the front and rear. Even if I am momentarily mistaken somehow with this gear on, it gives me a chance to survive the mistake. If you don’t have the luxury of, or the funds for, additional armor, consider a tactical vest that is also marked “police” or “sheriff” as a less expensive alternative. If you have a Velcro cloth badge emblem available, stick that on, too. If you are the very first LEO on the scene, call 911 and let the dispatcher know who you are and that you are going in. Here is the biggest lifesaver of all: If confronted by other police forces, comply immediately. Hit the ground as fast as you can if the command is given or if it seems that someone is about to shoot you, and clear the weapon away from you. Everyone’s nerves are firing beyond Condition Red. Be prepared to take yourself out of the fight instantly before someone else does it for you.
Once you are geared up and going in, remember that the vast majority of the current active-shooter population is nothing but cowardly punks—how else would you categorize someone who would shoot a classroom full of first-grade children with an AR-15 rifle? They fold like a house of cards when confronted by someone with equal or greater firepower who is willing to use that firepower; they usually either surrendering quickly or commit suicide when they hear the responding forces arriving or approaching. Use their cowardice to your advantage. In another recent school shooting, a school resource officer yelled “Police!” as he ran to the shooter’s position in the school. The shooter killed himself when he heard the officer loudly approaching. His use of verbal identification doubtless saved many lives because it caused the shooter to take appropriate personal action before the SRO could reach him. The Sandy Hook shooter did the same thing. He killed himself when he heard approaching sirens. These individuals can inflict pain, misery and suffering on others regardless of how young or harmless they are, but they would rather cause their death at their own hands rather than endure what they consider pain and suffering inflicted upon them at the hands of another. So I would make all the law-enforcementrelated noise I could when moving towards the shooter in order to trigger a shooter suicide instead of using a silent approach. It has been proven at least twice to work. In the end, remember that the active shooter is the ultimate bully, and every bully is a coward when someone stands up to them. You need to be that someone. Be prepared, and proceed safely and effectively.
FEB/MAR 2015 • GUNS & WEAPONS FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT 99
SMITH & WESSON M&P R8 Continued from page 78
For a practical shooting test, I normally use a 30-round combat course that is intended for a semi-automatic pistol. Given that the M&P R8 is an eight-shot revolver, I modified this course using the same distances but more rounds. It was also time to install the Viridian C5L-R and give it a workout. I made sure that the Viridian unit was attached as far back from the muzzle as possible, as I planned to use the CorBon ammunition during my combat test phase. At 3 yards I shot from the hip, so to speak, using only my strong hand and then only my support hand, while looking over the handgun, the sights below my eye level. I started with the R8 in my hand, down behind my right leg—ready but out of sight— as I would if checking a suspicious circumstance or making a potentially risky traffic stop. I then moved into my shooting stance, fired eight rounds, reloaded, transferred the gun to my support hand, fired eight more shots, reloaded and reassessed the situation. At this distance, using this scenario, I didn’t use the laser/light device. I moved back to 7 yards to simulate a tactical situation using a ballistic shield.
Here, since I couldn’t effectively use the sights, I activated the laser/light, with the light on strobe. Using my strong hand, I shot a series of four double-taps and reloaded. Next, from the same distance I performed a body armor drill, again using the Viridian unit. From a low-ready position, I brought the weapon up and fired two shots center-mass, then one to the head and one to the pelvis area. Then I repeated the process and reloaded. Lastly, I moved back to 15 yards to a barricade. I fired four shots from the right side, then went to a kneeling position and shot four more times. I was gratified to see the center of the B-27 silhouette target had a big chewed-out area in the X/1 ring, with 6 hits in the 9 ring and a single 8, not counting my two head and two pelvis shots, which were on target and close together.
FINAL NOTES Besides a 392/400 12-X score, everything worked and worked well. The smooth DA pull of the M&P R8 contributed to the good score, and the revolver’s muzzleheavy balance, weight and well-designed
ILLEGAL IMPORTERS Continued from page 104
After inspecting the guitars, officers discovered business cards within the packaging referring to the same website, which indicated that these guitars could be purchased from China for about $200 to $500 each. While not exactly a bargainbasement price for a guitar, the MSRPs for the real deal was much higher. Authentic versions of the guitars that the counterfeiters attempted to copy reportedly range anywhere in price from $2,000 for a basic model to $54,000 for a signature model. That could have a retailer, musician or anyone who laid down that kind of cash seriously singing the blues. As for the 185 guitars that were seized this year, the CBP confirmed that the guitars were slated for destruction.
ALWAYS A WINNER In April 2014, a man who arrived on a flight from Guyana had a lot of explaining to do after U.S. CBP officials at John F. Ken-
A Guyana citizen tired to smuggle in 18 pounds of cocaine in Champion custard packages.
nedy International Airport reported finding nearly 18 pounds of cocaine in his luggage. The contraband had been concealed among powdered custard within the man’s bags. CBP officers stopped the suspect after he arrived in the country on a flight from Guyana as part of a routine baggage inspection. It didn’t take long for the officers to discovered eight packages of Champion custard powder within his luggage.
100 GUNS & WEAPONS FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT • FEB/MAR 2015
The Hogue grip has pebble-graintextured side panels and finger grooves for a secure hold even while firing .357 Mag cartridges quickly.
grip made it feel like I was shooting .38 Special +P ammunition, which was a boon for rapid-fire shooting and fast target acquisition. The Viridian laser/light kept its POA after having been removed and then reattached, and it didn’t come loose during the shooting session. At 7 yards I used only the laser, and at 15 yards I was looking over the sights but still relying mostly on the laser, which was easy to see in daylight at the outdoor range. The moon clips made reloading a snap, as did the chamfered chambers of the cylinder. I believe the Smith & Wesson M&P R8 is a viable candidate for use by law enforcement. It comes with a hefty price tag and will not appeal to everyone or meet every need. And holsters are few and far between right now. But if you are partial to revolvers, have latitude in a duty carry gun and want eight shots of .357 Mag in a very controllable package, the M&P R8 might just be what you are looking for. For more information, visit smith-wesson.com or call 800-331-0852.
The packages were probed, and instead of ingredients for a dessert, authorities found a white powder that emitted a strong chemical odor that quickly tested positive for cocaine. In all, the CBP officers discovered 17.9 pounds, which the agency reported has an approximate street value of about $300,000. The traveler, who is a citizen of Guyana, was subsequently arrested for the importation of a controlled substance and was turned over to Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). He now faces federal narcotics smuggling charges. After being found in possession of nearly 18 pounds of narcotics, he subsequently told investors that he was paid $5,000 to bring his brown roller suitcase into the country. The Guyana News Agency further reported that he told investigators that he did not know the suitcase contained cocaine. The Guyanese Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit was reportedly informed of the bust and has been conducting its own investigation in Guyana. Whether he was an unknowing drug mule or an unlucky low-level smuggler, he might have found irony in the slogan of Champion’s custard powder: “Always a Winner.”
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FEB/MAR 2015 • GUNS & WEAPONS FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT 103
BUSTED! BY PETER SUCIU
illegal importers Drug-running misfits and out-of-tune counterfeiter pay the price! LAZY SMUGGLER A 26-year-old woman gave a new meaning to the concept of flying high after she was arrested in the spring of 2014 at the Oakland International Airport when the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) reportedly discovered 81 pounds of marijuana in her checked bags. She was reportedly attempting to fly from Oakland to Jackson, Mississippi, via connections in Phoenix and Dallas. While this is among the largest drug busts that can be chalked up to the TSA, it practically rivals busts by the Drug Enforcement Agency, which actually combats drug trafficking. Moreover, marijuana—along with most illegal drugs—is not actually even on the TSA’s most wanted list. The agency, which is part of the Department of Homeland Security, is responsible for the screening of passengers and luggage at airports, and is far more concerned about potential threats to the safety of the passengers and planes. What stands out about this case is that the woman in question attempted to bring 81 pounds in total of the drug, and had it merely packed into three suitcases with little effort made to conceal it. That makes this particular situation fairly unordinary. The TSA also does not have any actual authority in these situations. If the officers find something that is illegal, like 81 pounds of marijuana, they will refer it to local authorities, who can then decide whether to arrest and prosecute the travelers. In this particular case, the TSA notified the Alameda Country Sherriff’s Office after finding the drugs. The sheriff’s office subsequently took possession of the contraband and arrested the passenger in question on criminal charges. Officials have said that the total value of the marijuana discovered had a street value of $100,000 in California, but noted that in Mississippi it could go for five times that or around a $500,000.
Transportation Security Administration officials at the Oakland International Airport recently stopped a passenger trying to fly with 81 pounds of marijuana overtly packed into three suitcases.
earlier in 2014 were clearly playing the wrong kind of tune. U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers discovered in packages from China more than 185 guitars that were counterfeits of well-known brands. These had an estimated retail value in excess of more than $1million. The guitars were found when CBP officers examined a number of oversized parcels. Inside one such package were five guitars bearing the Gibson, Les Paul, Paul Reed Smith and Martin
OUT OF TUNE
Regardless of one’s musical preferences, some guitars that arrived at the International and Bulk Mail Center in Jersey City, New Jersey,
trademarks. These knock-offs of what appeared to be high-end instruments also bore the marking, “Made in USA,” which soon sounded alarm bells. Brand-new, American-made guitars, of course, don’t arrive from China on a regular basis. The officers suspected that these guitars were counterfeit based on the country of origin and packaging. A closer examination found other problems, including poor craftsmanship. Since the first discovery in early 2014, CBP officials subsequently identified more than 180 additional counterfeit guitars. These bore trademarks for Epiphone, Fender, Taylor and Ernie Bell but all had something in common— all were being shipped through the same facility from China. (Please turn to page 100) A small sample of the 185 counterfeit guitars of well-known brands such as Gibson, Les Paul and others.
TSA Photos
104 GUNS & WEAPONS FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT • FEB/MAR 2015
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FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT
TRIPWIRE OPERATIONS
®
Continued from page 80 ounces overall and 70 percent of the weight at the shoulder end of the buffer tube, the LEAP stock can offer better balance for longer and heavier barrels.
EXPLOSIVES
Tripwire is one of the few ATF-licensed explosive materials manufacturers, importers, exporters and dealers in the country. Tripwire’s catalog includes detonators and detonating cords, shock tube, safety fuse, cast boosters, electric matches, plastic bonded explosives, dynamite, TNT, jet perforators, Watergel, Kinepak, TexPak, ANFO and explosive range materials and equipment. These materials go hand in hand with Tripwire’s extensive explosives training offerings, which include training for explosives use and handling, explosives detection, explosives breaching and K9 handler explosive detection.
SEHOY TACTICAL
In addition to Tripwire’s extensive training facility in Gettysburg, Tripwire has partnered with Sehoy Tactical, which offers 25,000 acres of diverse training grounds. On this training compound is a 1-mile airstrip certified for planes as large as a C-130 as well two aircraft hangars capable of housing one large and several small aircraft/UAVs. Sehoy also has a 440-acre, deep-water lake capable of accommodating waterborne operations from water landings, airborne training and recovery operations to diving certifications. Sehoy has numerous large open areas suitable for small- to medium-scale airborne, military free-fall and pathfinder operations. Sehoy also offers accommodations for tests and evaluations on almost any scales. Since 2005, Tripwire has provided explosives-related training and products to the Department of Defense, many federal law enforcement agencies and hundreds of state and local government agencies. Some of the company’s key clients include the U. S. Department of Defense, the ATF, the FBI, the Secret Service, the Virginia State Police and the New Jersey State Police. Combined, Tripwire has over 100 years of experience in law enforcement, fire service, emergency medical service, hazmat, SWAT/SRT, corporate security and bomb squad functions. This is why over 10,000 first responders have come to Tripwire to ensure that have what they need to best protect America. For more information, visit tripwireops.org or call 888-330-7015. GUNS-WEAPONS.com
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FEB/MAR 2015 • GUNS & WEAPONS FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT 105
POLICE STORIES
“IT HAPPENED TO ME!” shooting. Suffice it to say that you never know what you can come across working the road, but the right tools make the job easier. That night, if it wasn’t for good police instincts and tactics and the power of the .45 ACP, the situation may have turned out differently. —DM, PA
SUICIDE BY COP At about the beginning of rush-hour traffic, just as everyone in our metropolitan city was leaving to head back to their homes on a bright fall weekday,
Apparently, as the “ trooper yelled verbal
CAR SHOOTOUT I work for a state police agency in the northeast. Most troopers see a lot working the road. You often get the good, the bad and the dumb. One night, we got the latter. While on patrol, another trooper went out for a traffic stop. It appeared that the car was speeding and the vehicle was unregistered—very typical offenses to see on the road. Soon the details of the traffic stop came over the radio. The trooper asked for another unit to assist, and I started rolling his way. By the time I got there, it was all over with. The trooper had stopped the car and identified the driver and passenger. From the looks and the way they were acting, the trooper knew something was not right. The driver seemed fidgety, evasive of questions and very nervous. The trooper got the driver out of the car and began trying to question the driver further. The driver continued to be evasive and then made the mistake of becoming combative with the trooper. As the verbal discussion’s tempo increased, the driver moved from verbally combative to a physical assault. The driver took a swing at the trooper, and a brawl began. As the trooper fought back, he pushed the driver away from him, trying to create distance in order to use his Taser. With that gap,
Big Stock photo
commands to stop and get out of the car, the driver didn’t listen. ”
the driver chose to run back into the driver’s side of his car in an attempt to flee. The only problem was, the brawl had moved to the front of the car and the trooper was blocking the car’s path. As the suspect got behind the wheel and began to shift the car into drive, the Trooper, quickly realizing danger, drew his issued Smith & Wesson M&P45 and aimed it at the driver. Apparently, as the trooper yelled verbal commands to stop and get out of the car, the driver didn’t listen. He pressed the gas pedal and starting driving at the trooper. The suspect’s actions placed the trooper in imminent danger, and he fired four rounds at the driver. A few years back, our department had switched from a 9mm to a .45 ACP chambered weapon. There was the usual debate back and forth, but the one thing that no one could debate was the penetrating power of the .45 ACP round. Our department did tests and studies and, hands down, we found it to be the best law enforcement round. The trooper said he watched his four rounds penetrate the car windshield, leaving four large holes, like it was butter. The rounds struck the suspect centermass, and the vehicle instantly stopped moving. A search of the suspect and vehicle afterwards revealed two handguns in the passenger compartment with filed-down serial numbers. The lab raised the numbers, and ballistics matched one of the guns to a recent gang
106 GUNS & WEAPONS FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT • FEB/MAR 2015
dispatch relayed several reports of a man with a handgun menacing passersby at one of our most well-known landmarks in the middle of downtown. Myself and several other officers in the area responded, and indeed located smack in the middle of a crowded tourist and business area, a young man in his mid-20s was holding a handgun and shouting that he wanted to die. Several of us took on the task of clearing the area of innocent people while others tried desperately to negotiate with the gunman in order to resolve whatever problem he was having without bloodshed. An investigation after the fact revealed that the man had been involved in a custody dispute with his ex, and he had posted on social media that he simply didn’t want to live anymore. All of us on the scene were finally able to clear the area of anyone else except the gunman and officers, and we made every attempt to have him put his gun down and surrender. After talking for almost an hour, the man inexplicably raised his pistol suddenly in the direction of one of our other officers on scene and left no choice in the matter. The officer fired one round from his carbine and the gunman fell. Although every effort was made to assist him, he died at the hospital a short time later. The subsequent investigation also revealed that the pistol he was holding was a realisticlooking replica that couldn’t have fired live ammo if he had wanted to. Apparently this was another sad example of a “suicide by cop,” but none of the people who commit these acts take the time to think about how the officer feels once it becomes known that what they perceived as a deadly threat was, in fact, not one. It is something that we all understand when taking the oath to serve and protect, but that doesn’t make it any easier to live with. —CT, NC
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Kimber CDP Pistols . Unequaled Quality. Unmatched Performance.
Easy to carry and conceal, the Ultra CDP™ II .45 ACP has a 3-inch barrel and weighs 25 ounces. It is also ofered in 9mm and with Crimson Trace Lasergrips.
CDP pistols have custom features like low-profle night sights and a Carry Bevel treatment for smooth, rounded edges that will not snag clothing or holsters.
An ambidextrous thumb safety promotes fast operation and 30 lines-per-inch checkering on the front strap and under the trigger guard ensures a positive grip.
Built in the Kimber® Custom Shop,™ CDP (Custom Defense Package) pistols combine .45 ACP power and the most important concealed carry features into a light weight, high-performance package that gives them their name. The stainless steel slide plus a match grade barrel and trigger ensure durability and accuracy. Aluminum frames wear the premium KimPro® II finish that is self-lubricating and extremely resistant to moisture and salt. Quality and performance are the true measures of value and Kimber pistols set the industry standard. Nowhere is this more evident than in a CDP. Visit the nearest Kimber Master Dealer and see for yourself.
The Custom CDP™ II .45 ACP has a 5-inch barrel and full-length grip, yet weighs just 31 ounces. CDP models take concealed-carry performance to the extreme.
T H E C H O I C E O F A M E R I C A’ S B E S T
kimberamerica.com (888) 243-4522
Kimber ofers nearly 200 purpose-built pistols and rifes to meet any need. ©2012, Kimber Mfg., Inc. All rights reserved. Information and specifcations are for reference only and subject to change without notice.
