review

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Frytech Magnetic Buffer

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Pamax Tactical - Frytech

Magnetic Buffer Review

  When it comes to AR parts, everyone makes something similar. That is what I thought until I heard of the magnetic recoil reducing buffer from Frytech. This is a mil-spec buffer tube that uses magnets to dampen recoil instead of the standard AR buffer weight. This system is currently available through Pamax Tactical.

  I am almost always hesitant about products that claim to reduce recoil. At least if they aren’t a standard muzzle device. But since I had been watching Frytech experiment with these for some time, I thought I would give it a try. I understand the concept of using magnets, as do most 5th graders. When the magnetic fields oppose each other, the magnets push away from one another. This field is progressive, so the closer the magnets are pushed together, the more force they resist. This is used to dampen the recoil in the Frytech Pamax buffer. It also allows the buffer to work with various calibers and barrel lengths. 

  The Frytech buffer system includes a few parts. As it arrives, you get a mil-spec 6 position buffer tube, castle nut, and end plate. Inside the buffer tube is a short spring, more on that later, and the magnetic buffer weights. There is a cotter key installed though the front of the tube. It has a tag on it that says something like “remove before flight”, but really it says “Warning, Magnetic, Do Not Remove Pin.” So do not remove this pin until the Frytech buffer tube is installed on an AR type firearm. Then you can remove the pin. The pin keeps the spring and the magnets in the proper orientation. If the parts go flying, you can install the magnets wrong and then the buffer will not function correctly. So, install the buffer tube, then remove the pin, and then head out to the range.

  Now that we are at the range, I will give you my first impressions. The first time I had the Frytech magnetic buffer out at the range, I took 3 different upper receivers along with a standard lower to compare it to the Frytech one. So shoot 10 rounds, install the same upper on Frytech buffered lower, shoot 10 more, etc. You could definitely tell the difference. It was more noticeable when going from the Frytech buffer and then back to a normal one. I then tried the other 2 uppers I had at the range. Same scenario and the same outcome, less felt recoil. Two of these were 5.56 and one was a 300 blackout. 

  The Frytech buffer ran without any flaws until I tried a piston upper with it. The next time at the range I took my VKTR 10.5 inch piston upper and the Frytech magnetic buffer. The Frytech buffer did not like this, it would short stroke sometimes. Since the VKTR piston upper is finely tuned to run with VKTR’s setup, this did not surprise me. I only note it because it is the only upper that did not work well. I fully believe that if the VKTR were adjustable, or had an adjustable gas system, I could have made it work with the Frytech buffer. So if you are installing the Frytech buffer on a finely tuned firearm, you may have to make some gas system adjustments. But after that, you will get the benefits of those magnets in the Frytech system.

  Since I wanted some real data on the Frytech buffer, I found my Mantis X10 and used it. When it comes to stuff like the Frytech buffer and claims of reduced recoil, I needed some actual data. So again, off to the range with an upper, two lowers, and the Mantis. I was able to get the data I was looking for. As you can see in the photos, all 4 of the metrics were reduced. Some by a pretty good margin. I now have data to show you, the reader, that the Frytech magnetic buffer is the real deal.

Standard AR buffer system

Frytech Magnetic Buffer System

  Because of all the testing, I ran the Frytech magnetic buffer with a bunch of different uppers. I definitely could tell that “magnetic” difference. I like this thing. I did notice a small, non-important hitch with it though. When cycling the bolt manually and slowly, the bolt wouldn’t always close on a new round. So I finally got to use that forward assist thingy to push the first round into battery. If you let the bolt release like you are supposed to, this doesn’t happen. Just thought I would remind people to let the bolt slam down instead of easy. This is also the reason the Frytech system has a short flat wound recoil spring in it. It is to help drive the bolt that little extra distance into battery. So did I mention the buffer uses magnets? Because of this, it likes to pick up allen wrenches off of my desk. They stick to the buffer tube. This could be a benefit, as you won’t lose the wrench for adjusting your optic. I know these things are minor, but I figured they needed mentioning. Speaking of annoyances, that buffer spring twang you sometimes get in a normal AR system is essentially non-existent in the Frytech system. Imagine that, magnetic waves are quieter than springs. Hmmmm, it is almost like they don’t make contact with anything. As I mentioned earlier, the Frytech magnetic buffer works. I really like the reduced recoil impulse, and it is softer feeling because of the way the magnets progressively slow the recoil down. The tube is also not some cheap imported tube, it is of nice quality and has the Frytech/Pamax logo etched onto it.

  If you are looking for something to reduce felt recoil and have a softer shooting firearm, the Frytech Magnetic Buffer might be it. It definitely does what it says it will, it reduces recoil, as the data shows. Is it for everyone? No, but maybe it should be. It is especially good for people that are recoil adverse or those wanting to get the best performance out of their firearm. Head over to Pamax Tactical and check out the Frytech Magnetic Buffer System. I’m sure there are more magnetic things to come from these guys.

Firearms Insider Reviews - Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Recoil reducing buffer system 

Target Market:

Those wanting a smoother cycling AR with less felt recoil 

Features, Benefits, and Specifications of this product:

  • 6-Position 7075-T6 Aluminum CNC-Milled Buffer Tube

  • Integrated Frytech Magnetic Technology — Built into the tube for seamless operation

  • Fits all mil-spec AR15 & AR-9 lowers

  • Tuned for 5.56/.223 & 9mm Calibers

  • Compatible with FRT Triggers

  • Compatible with Super Safety (may require modification to detent spring.)

  • Works with all mil-spec stock systems

  • Compatible with buffer retainers

  • Replaces buffer tube, buffer, and spring

  • Uses standard or included castle nut & end plate

  • Maintains normal AR15 receiver takedown

  • Zero Lubrication Required

  • Springless Magnetic Stack

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

.308 caliber

What others are saying?:

5 out of 5 stars at Pamax Tactical

Smooth

Amazing. I was skeptical of there being much difference. I was one of the first to order one since I know Fry's been working really hard on this. I am really impressed by how smooth and light the recoil impulse is . I highly recommend giving it a shot if you have the resources to put into it .

Link to other reviews:

Nothing found as of publishing 

Price point:

MSRP = $149.95

Retail = Same

I need it now! Availability:

Pamax Tactical

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Reduces felt recoil

  • Works on a variety of calibers

  • No modifications needed

  • Easy Installation

  • Doesn't take extra force to operate manually 

Cons:

  • Tuned systems may need re-tuned

  • Bolt doesn’t always lock forward on initial loading 

Score: 7.50 Good

Favorite Link:  Mantis X10 Elite Review

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SecureIt Fast Box 36D

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SecureIt Gun Storage -

Fast Box 36D Review

  There are numerous different styles of safes out there to protect your firearms. They come in sizes from pretty small to extremely large. I was in need of a vehicle style safe, since the State in which I reside passed laws on vehicle storage, as well as limiting where you can carry a firearm. I wanted something large enough to hold a “large” style pistol, as well as my carry gun. SecureIt Gun Storage had exactly what I was looking for in their Fast Box 36D safe.

  SecureIt makes a bunch of different safes that will work nicely in a vehicle. However, SecureIt only makes one safe smaller than the Fast Box 36D. All of their other safes are larger in physical size. The 36D is not small like a single handgun safe would be. The exterior size is 6.5 inches tall x 35.75 inches wide x 13 inches deep, or 14.25 inches if you measure it with the handle. You can see where the model number comes from now, it’s approximately 36 inches wide. The “D” in the model stands for “Drawer”, so this version has a drawer that slides out as opposed to just a door that opens.

  When you start looking at safes like the Fast Box 36D, you look at its features. The features of the 36D are what make it stand out. It has all the features anyone would want. It is made from 16 gauge steel, and has a metal 3 point locking mechanism. Most of us know that safes are designed to mitigate entry risk. The better the construction, lock types, etc., the longer it takes for someone to breach the package and get into it. Besides the manual lock, you have to turn it to lock and unlock the drawer, the 36D also has biometrics, a number keypad, and a key backup. Here is what SecureIt says about the Fast Box: “High-Stress Fast-Access (HSFA) locking system, engineered for lightning-fast, reliable access in high-pressure situations. The customizable 4-digit push-button keypad, backlit for low-light visibility, is paired with a capacitive fingerprint scanner for seamless entry and a manual key override for redundancy. With no third-party backdoors, your gear remains fully secure.”

  Large number buttons make entry into the SecureIt Fast Box 36D super easy. Button entry is by far my favorite way to unlock the 36D. It has 4 large buttons, numbered 1-4. These buttons are backlit the first time you push one of them. There is an option to turn off the backlight, if you so choose. The code to unlock the 36D is user programmable. You can choose anywhere between a 3 digit code and a 12 digit code. Once the code is entered, you will hear a beep for about 5 seconds. During the beep is when you can turn the locking knob and unlock the safe. Once the beep stops, it resets the keypad locking feature. This particular beep can not be turned off. If you enter the wrong code 5 times, the safe beeps every second, for 60 seconds. Once it stops beeping, you can try again. It is not a loud beep, but it is annoying. All of this is powered by an internal 9 volt battery.

  The next way to open the SecureIt 36D is using biometrics. Right below the keypad, on the same panel, is a small fingerprint scanner. The scanner works pretty good. But I don’t rely on biometric scanners, as they are not full proof. They do however offer a convenient way to open things, if you are not in a life or death situation. With the 36D, since it has a drawer, remember to program your fingerprints with that in mind. If it’s mounted on a floor, or something similar, using your finger straight on the scanner probably won’t work. Try programming your print with your finger sideways, or even upside down. The scanner feature can be completely turned off. So if you don’t want to mess with it at all, just turn it off. The same 60 second lockout feature also applies to the fingerprint scanner. If you mess up 5 times, you will have to wait 60 seconds until you can try again.

  Every safe needs some kind of mounting system, otherwise criminals would just pick it up and take it with them. The Fast Box 36D has a ton of pre-drilled holes for mounting. These are drilled for ¼ inch bolts. Remember, it is about how long it takes to enter the safe, or actually take it. Bolting it down makes physically taking the box way harder. To get to most of these mounting holes, you must first remove the drawer. Because of the physical size of the safe, some of the mounting screws can be difficult to install. Which also makes them harder to take out. I bolted it down and ran a cable through some of the mounting holes. Why not add just a little bit more security to it? To go along with mounting, SecureIt also has an option to plug the electronic keypad and biometric reader into a USB-C connection for power. Something maybe worth thinking about when mounting the Fast Box 36D somewhere.

  Having a drawer on the Fast Box 36D is a nice option over just a flip open door. This drawer allows you to easily slide out whatever is inside. And yes, the drawer slides super easy in and out. SecureIt includes a couple of straps and a padded insert for the drawer. This allows you to lay your valuables on something soft, not just metal. Then the adjustable straps hold whatever it is, in place. The size of the drawer is slightly smaller than the external dimensions of the safe, as one would expect. The drawer size is 4 inches high by 33.25 inches wide by 10 inches deep. You lose a ¼ inch in height using the pad. But you will want the pad.

  The SecureIt Fast Box 36D fit my needs perfectly. It has the features most people would want. Entry into the 36D is super easy with the keypad. However, I would like a few more number options. Maybe 1 to 6, so six actual buttons. I don’t use the biometric reader because it is small and a little awkward to get to when the safe is mounted on a floor. But it is there if you want it. The depth of the drawer was just a teeny bit to narrow. When I tried to mount a large style AR pistol in the drawer, with a loaded 30 round magazine inserted into it, it would not fit.This pistol also has a 1X primary Arms prism mounted on it. So with the height of the optic and the magazine, it was just too much. So I just took the magazine out and sat it next to the pistol. In my use-case, this is not an immediate response safe, so not having the magazine inserted is not a make or break deal for me. There is also enough space inside the Fast Box 36D to set my carry pistol alongside the AR pistol. So if I have to go into one of those non permissive environments, I can lock up my carry gun too. In the end, I had some extra safe style carpet from another project. I laid a piece of this carpet over the safe. It hides it from view nicely. If someone happens to see it, it just looks similar to a subwoofer box that all the kids have these days. If someone happens to ask, that is what I would tell them, because it can “hit” pretty hard. 

  If you are in the market for a fast opening safe, with all the features, the SecureIt Fast Box 36D might work for you. This drawer safe had all the features I was looking for: Size, Ease of opening, USB power, and plenty of mounting options. So if you are looking for something larger than the normal handgun safe, check out the SecureIt Fast Box Series.

Firearms Insider Reviews - Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Compact, secure, vehicle ready safe

Target Market:

Those wanting safe storage in a vehicle or home 

Features, Benefits, and Specifications of this product:

  • Weight: 49 lbs

  • External Dimensions: H 6.5″ x W 35.75″ x D 13″ (or 14.25″ with the handle)

  • Internal Dimensions: H 4″ x W 33.25″ x D 10″

  • Rapid Access

  • Advanced Keypad Design

  • Keyed backup

  • Optional USB-C power

  • Pre-drilled mounting holes

  • Foam insert

  • Interior mounting straps

  • 3 point locking system

  • Construction: 16 gauge steel

  • Fits up to 33” length rifle or pistol

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

20, 40, and 47 inch versions

What others are saying?:

5 out 5 stars at SecureIt Gun Storage

Mike C. 

I love my Fast Box so far. The reason I opted for the 36D is because I wanted something that would fit between the legs of my bed and anything longer would not have fit. The first one I ordered had a broken rail when I went to pull the drawer out but I reached out to customer support and they sent out a new one super quick! Really great customer service! My only "complaint" is that I think it is a little overpriced but it is good to know that they stand behind their product and their customer service is top notch so that makes it worth it to me. It does fit my AR, a couple boxes of ammo and a small handgun. I had to take the optic off of my AR to make it fit but I think it would fit better if I had a smaller mag on it.

Link to other reviews:

Best I could find    

Price point:

MSRP = $409.00

Retail = $339.00

I need it now! Availability:

SecureIt Gun Storage or your local dealer

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Size

  • Pre-Drilled mounting holes

  • USB power

  • Biometric use

  • Large Keypad

  • Padded insert and straps

Cons:

  • Fingerprint reader is small

  • Drawer width could be wider to fit loaded rifle

Score: 8.00 Great

Favorite Link:  Primary Arms GLx 1x prism review    

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TriStar KR22

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Tristar KR22

Review

  In my opinion, everyone should have a 22lr rifle. You can go mild to wild when it comes to 22’s. The Tristar KR.22 would be considered mild. Mild enough to make it an inexpensive entry level 22 rifle. The KR22 has some good features, as well as a few that don’t quite hit home.

  I had asked to get one of the TriStar KR22’s after talking about it on the Gun & Gear Review Podcast. The KR22 comes with a lot of features. Most important is that it will accept standard, available everywhere, Ruger 10/22 magazines. This is the reason I wanted to review it. I was also curious if more parts were compatible with the 10/22. They are not. The only parts compatible are those magazines. However, that does not stop the KR22 from having some good features.

  The KR22 uses a synthetic stock. This stock comes with built in swivel studs. I like this because it not only gives you the ability to easily mount a sling, it also gives you the ability to mount a bi-pod. A bi-pod can help young shooters to use the rifle easier. There is also a nice rubber buttpad . But more important is that the KR22 has an adjustable cheek riser. So if you are mounting up some optics, you can adjust it to get just the right position to look through those optics. To adjust it, you just loosen a set screw, adjust the riser up or down, and then tighten the screw back up. I really liked having the adjustable cheek riser since I ran the KR22 with a Primary Arms GLx MD-21 red dot. I also readjusted the riser when I mounted a Primary Arms 4-16x44 for doing accuracy work. Also on the stock is a really nice textured pistol grip. It is grippier than most and I really liked it.

  One of the nice features on the KR22 is the ability to move the bolt handle. You can swap it from the right side to the left. Just unscrew it and then screw it in the other side of the bolt. If you are left handed, or just like the bolt on the left side of the rifle, this feature just makes sense. The push button safety of the KR22 is not reversible though, sorry lefties. I would also like to mention that there is no feature to lock the bolt back. This doesn’t really matter to me, but if you are at certain ranges, or teaching a child, you will need a chamber flag to see if the chamber is empty and safe. 

  TriStar uses a fiber optic front sight on the KR22. The front fiber and standard style rear notch give the KR22 a decent sight picture. Windage is adjusted on the rear notch sight with an allen wrench and set screw set up. The front sight adjusts elevation , also with an allen wrench. These sights are tall enough to clear a suppressor, if you choose to mount one onto the threaded muzzle. All of this works okay, until you notice that the rear sight can move side to side a little. There is no way to tighten this down. So with iron sights, you can’t get very precise shot placement. Luckily, red dots are cheap and you can mount one on the built in pic rail. 

  I was pleasantly surprised with the KR22’s trigger. It is a flat style trigger with a flipper safety in it. The flipper safety just adds a little bit of extra safety and it isn’t noticeable when using the KR22. Of course there is a normal push button safety at the front of the trigger guard. Trigger pull came out at 4.5 pounds. There is essentially no pretravel, a decent wall, and then some over travel. But for a stock 22 trigger, it is better than I expected. The magazine release is located in front of the trigger guard. It is a flat style paddle that you push forward to drop the magazine. The size of the mag release is large enough to make it easy to reach and use. 

 Accuracy of the little KR22 was, what I would consider, normal. Using bulk box, cheap, 22LR ammunition I would get 3-4 inch groups at 50 yds. That was with about 5 different types of 22LR. The KR22 is not a match rifle, and that is about what I get with other 22’s. In this case, it is the ammo’s fault, as bulk 22LR ammo is not very consistent. I was able to get a few 2-2.25 inch groups with CCI MiniMags. This also did not surprise me as the CCI stuff is usually more consistent. For reliability in the KR22, I found the Winchester 36gr bulk packs and the CCI MiniMags functioned the most reliable. Some standard velocity 22LR didn’t always cycle the bolt all the way back to pick up a new round. So I would stick with hi-velocity 22LR ammunition in the KR22.

  I do like the TriStar KR22 rifle. Once I figured out which ammo it liked, it functioned quite well. This is however the 2nd KR22 I was sent. The first KR22 had a burr in the chamber where the extractor slides next to it. I contacted TriStar and they immediately sent me a call tag. Within a week or so, the new KR22 had arrived. So if you do have a problem with anything TriStar, their customer service is top notch, and will have you up and running again in no time. Besides this minor setback, I did find an inconvenience with the KR22. Both rifles I received had slop in the rear iron sight. Even with the adjustment tightened down. These sights would move a little back and forth where they sit inside the picatinny rail. Enough that if I moved it to one side, and then the other, it would change the point of impact by an inch or so at 25 yards. As mentioned, just install a red dot on it and you won’t have to worry about that. Even with these minor problems, I think the KR22 has a lot of good features. The trigger is nice. It has that adjustable cheek riser for when you mount a scope or red dot. It also has a threaded barrel which allows you to install a muzzle brake or suppressor. The KR22 is a fun little 22 rifle.

  The TriStar KR22 isn’t bad for what it is. It has a lot of nice features previously mentioned. Probably its biggest pro is the ability to use 10/22 magazines. Followed by its built in optics rail, because you will want to use it. The trigger is also pretty decent for a $250 22 rifle. So if you are looking for a lightweight 22 plinking rifle, the TriStar KR22 might fit the bill.  

Firearms Insider Reviews - Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Inexpensive 22 rifle

Target Market:

Anyone wanting a 22lr rifle that is suppressor ready

Features, Benefits, and Specifications of this product:

  • Threaded Barrel (1/2 x 28 right hand thread)

  • Blow back semi-automatic operation

  • Push button & trigger safety

  • Reversible Bolt Handle

  • Adjustable Comb

  • Swivel Studs

  • Picatinny Rail integrated on receiver

  • Adjustable Front Fiber Optic Sight

  • 2 -10 rd. Rotary Magazines

  • Accepts 10/22® Magazines

  • Barrel: 18.6”

  • Weight: 4.9 lbs

  • Overall Length: 38″

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

ODG/Black and FDE/Black   

What others are saying?:

Nothing found as of publishing

Link to other reviews:

Shooting News Weekly on YouTube   

Price point:

MSRP = $289.00

Retail = $234.00 at MidwayUSA     

I need it now! Availability:

Tristar, MidwayUSA, or your local dealer

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Lightweight

  • Threaded barrel

  • Built in picatinny rail for optics

  • Reversible charging handle

  • Adjustable cheek riser

  • Uses 10/22 magazines

Cons:

  • Rear sight moves side to side

  • No way to lock bolt back

Score: 6.50 Okay

Favorite Link:  Primary Arms GLx MD-21 Review

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AimWin PE320

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Aimwin PE320

Enclosed Emitter

Red dot Review

  In today's market, there are a bunch of good pistol style red dots. They basically come in two categories: open emitter and closed emitter. Aimwin recently released their PE320. The PE320 is an enclosed emitter red dot with a multi-reticle system and a solar fail safe. 

  As with any quality red dot, the Aimwin PE320 comes with everything needed. In the box you get the optic, a battery, extra screws (including one for the battery tray), wrenches, cleaning cloth, etc. Probably the most important included item is the Acro to RMR adapter. This gives you the ability to mount it on anything that uses the RMR mounting footprint. There are lots of pistol options using a direct RMR footprint. 

  Mounting the PE320 is pretty straightforward. However, it does come with two options. If you happen to have something with an ACRO mounting footprint, like a riser or a plate adapter, you can mount the PE320 directly to that. If you have a direct mount RMR cut/footprint, you can use the supplied ACRO to RMR adapter. This is what I did. Just screw down the RMR plate onto your slide and then clamp on the PE320. It's really that easy.

  Now that the Aimwin PE320 is mounted, you can take it to the range. To initially turn on the PE320, just click the “+” button. The buttons to control the PE320 are located on the left side of the optic. These are rubberized raised buttons labeled “+” and “-”. They are pretty large and easy to use, even if you are wearing gloves. Of course, tapping on a “+” or “-” button will increase or decrease the brightness of the red dot. There are 11 total brightness settings, the 2 lowest are night vision compatible. Now that the PE320 is on, you can sight it in. A nice feature on the Aimwin is its click adjustable windage and elevation screws. Each click adjusts the point of impact 1 MOA, which is fine for these types of red dots. Now that it is sighted in, and you want to completely turn it off, just hold down the “-” button until the dot disappears. 

  The PE320 uses Aimwin's “aim awake” feature. The “aim awake” is their auto on/off feature. Once you turn on the PE320 this feature is enabled. Aim Awake works like any of the other auto on/off systems. After the optic sits idle for a short time, the dot will turn off. Once you barely move the optic, the dot will turn back on. The aim awake feature helps with battery life, giving the PE320 around 50,000 hours of run time. I am a huge fan of these auto on/off features. 

  Aimwin's PE320 is not just a red dot. It features a multi-reticle system. So you get the option of either a circle dot, just a circle, or just a red dot. If using one of the options with the circle, the circle also has little hash marks in it that are located every 90 degrees (similar to an Eotech). To cycle through these 3 reticle options, just hold down the “+” button until it changes. The PE320 uses a 36 MOA circle with a 3 MOA dot, or any combination of the three. I like having reticle options and the PE320's are useful for whatever you need or want. 

  The multi-reticle system of the PE320 is housed inside a large window. How large is the window? 0.94 inches wide by 0.79 inches high. It's a big window, which is really nice for finding the reticle. However, because of its large window, the PE320 is a little wider than a lot of the enclosed ACRO footprint optics. This isn't bad or good, it really just depends on what trade offs you want.

  The last notable feature of the PE320 is the solar panel on top of the optics housing. This solar panel adds a “solar failsafe” to the optic. So if your battery is low, and there is enough light, you will still see the reticle. The Solar Failsafe also works when the battery is completely dead, as long as there is enough light. I tried it with the battery out, and the reticle still comes on under normal room lighting. Don't expect it to work in a dark room without a battery. The Solar Failsafe is a nice option to have, especially if you forget to change the battery out once a year. When you do need to change that battery, the PE320 uses a side mount battery tray for easy use.

  I mounted the Aimwin PE320 to a Polymer 80 with a Grey Ghost slide. This particular slide is cut to direct mount an RMR footprint. So I ended up using the PE320’s ACRO to RMR plate. I chose this pistol because I use it in various different forms, one of those is using a Recover Tactical 20/80 brace system. This let me try out the PE320 in a chassis style system and as a standard pistol. I put a ton of rounds through it and even beat the crap out of the PE320. No loss of zero and no other problems, even when using the optic as a slide racker off the benches at the range. With the PE320’s adapter plate, the red dot does sit a little higher up on the pistol, but still below the top of the slide. If you want the PE320 to co-witness with iron sights, you will probably have to get some suppressor height ones. Those still might not be tall enough to clear the PE320’s deck height. Speaking of size, the PE320 is large for a pistol style red dot. Not so much height wise, but more width wise. It definitely is wider than a standard Glock slide. I only see this as a problem if you are carrying it inside the waistband. On a rifle, this could be a bonus. Especially since the window size on the PE320 is fantastic. It made finding the dot real easy. I like the 3 MOA dot size, it is a good compromise between speed and accuracy. Since I live in Oregon, it also rains a lot here. Having an enclosed system also makes it way easier to wipe the rain off of the lenses. 

  If you are in the market for an enclosed style pistol red dot, the Aimwin PE320 might be worth looking at. It has a decently large window and different reticle options. Being larger in size, it would also make a good rifle dot. If you forget to change your battery, it might still work for you thanks to that solar failsafe. It is also durable and held up to my abuse. So go check it out over at Aimwin.com.

Firearms Insider Reviews - Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Enclosed pistol red dot with large window

Target Market:

Those wanting a large windowed enclosed red dot

Features, Benefits, and Specifications of this product:

  • Weight: 2.19 ounces (62g)

  • Dot Size: 3 MOA with 36 MOA ring (selectable) 

  • Window Size: 24.0mm x 20.0mm (0.94" x 0.79")

  • Dimensions: 45.3mm x 35.0mm x 31.2mm (1.78" x 1.38" x 1.2")

  • Housing Material: Hard-anodized 6061-T6 Aluminum

  • Adjustment per Click: 1 MOA

  • Windage & Elevation Range: ±50 MOA, total range 100 MOA

  • Footprint: ACRO, RMR adapter plate included

  • Battery: Side load CR2032

  • Solar Guard Fail Safe

  • Battery Life: 50,000 hours (low brightness)

  • Aim Awake mode

  • Operating Temperature: -30℃ - 60℃ (-22°F - 140°F)

  • Brightness Settings: 9 Daylight / 2 Night Vision Levels

  • Water Resistance: IPX7

  • Vibration: 2000 G’s

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

None

What others are saying?:

5 out of 5 stars on Amazon

 Very Nice Enclosed Optic

Just picked this up for my H&K P30L. Had to change the optics plate (Langdon Tactical cut) to an ACRO mount, but it fits perfectly on it and locks down solid. The body appears to be pretty durable and stout without being overly heavy. Controls are nice and large so adjusting brightness and/or choosing dot style is pretty easy. ACRO mounts are probably the easiest installation of any of the footprints since it works like a pic rail. No screws into the plate to worry about getting torqued just right. It does really need a torque spec listed for the clamp screw, though. Never really liked "make it tight, but be careful not to over tighten it" with no spec for what "tight" is. Dots are extremely bright on the max setting and much calmer on the lower settings. Again, it is nice to be able to choose different reticles for different situations. Battery is side loading, which is nice as you don't have to remove the optic for swaps. Only issue I have with the battery compartment is that the tiny screw that holds it in place seems easy to lose as it is not captured. So be careful swapping batteries. We'll see how it does at the range this weekend at holding zero. Adjustments are nice and tactile with just enough resistance to turning to make me think they will stay put pretty good. May wind up being awfully high if you were to use the RMR to ACRO adapter that comes with it on most RMR cut applications. But sits at a nice height on the ACRO specific plate I have installed.

Link to other reviews:

Chris from the 740 on YouTube  

Price point:

MSRP = $359.95

Retail = $240

I need it now! Availability:

Aimwin Optics or Amazon 

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Multi reticle

  • Solar fail safe

  • Large window size

  • Acro footprint w/RMR plate

  • Auto on/off (Aim Awake) 

Cons:

  • Optic is physically wider 

  • Deck height is pretty tall

Score: 8.00 Great

Favorite Link:  Grey Ghost Glock Slide Review 

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N96 Arms FX-9 RP

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N96 Arms FX-9 RP

Review

  There are tons of good handguns on the market today. What someone chooses is really up to them. Fit and features should be high on that list when choosing a handgun. N96 Arms has brought out their FX-9 RP. This imported pistol has a ton of great features, both for the beginner and the professional.

  To start with, the FX-9 RP is a duty sized handgun. So it has a full size grip frame and a 4.1 inch barrel. It comes with decent iron sights and three different backstraps. These backstraps help to make the pistol fit small to large hands. The FX-9 also has an ambidextrous safety. It also is cut for an RMSc footprint optic. Along with that, it comes with 2 - 17 round magazines, a mag loader, paddle holster, a cleaning kit, and an okay carrying case. You really get a lot of stuff for that $379.00 MSRP.

  When describing a pistol, I always try to do the frame first. Mainly because it is the interface between you and your shooting experience. The frame is made from polymer, so all the features are “molded” into it. The grip frame on the N96 Arms FX-9 RP starts with a really good grip texture. On the sides it has a rough stipple like texture. On the front and back are lines with little squares cut into them. Think of a small “frag” pattern, but not quit. The mag release form fits the frame very well and is easy to get to. It is also reversible if you are lefty. Moving to the trigger guard, it is large and has lines on the very front. It is large enough that gloved hands should not have any problems. It is fairly undercut at the rear so you can also get your hand up high on the grip to support recoil. Moving to the front is a 3 slot rail. The rail is a cross between a pic rail and a glock rail. The spacing between the rails is smaller than a pic rails spacing, more like a Glock. When I mounted a light, I had to use the smaller Glock lug, which is how I found out about the spacing. At the rear of the FX-( is a really nice beavertail to keep you from getting any slide bite.

  It is now trigger time. The trigger on the N96 Arms FX-9 RP is really good. It is a curved style with a safety flipper. The flipper is barely noticeable when pulling the trigger. The curve on the trigger is very shallow, somewhere between a standard curved and a flat faced. Total movement is around 0.400 inch. So a little shorter pull length than a Glock trigger. The first 0.300 inch is take up. The next 0.075 - 0.100 inch is the actual break. The break is pretty clean. Total trigger pull weight comes in at 4.5 pounds on my trigger gauge. Reset is also decent. Overall it is a nice trigger for a striker fired pistol. Along with the trigger comes a manual safety. The safety lever is ambidextrous. It is located near the rear of the frame, where it should be. Flip it up for safe and down for fire. The FX-9 RP’s safety has a decent detent, so you shouldn’t accidentally put it on. It also flips off decently easy with your thumb. It is very slim shaped, but I didn’t have any problems releasing it. To go along with the safeties, the FX-9 RP also has a striker indicator. When the pistol is ready to fire, you can see a red painted dot in the middle of the backplate. 

  The slide on the N96 Arms FX-9 RP is nice looking. The machining on it is top notch, which actually surprised me. At the front and rear are angled slide serrations. They work well, but I would like them cut just a little deeper. Most people probably won’t even notice since they work fine. At the front of the slide are 3 holes on each side, and the top. This lightens the slide but also makes it possible for a ported barrel. Or more so, porting the barrel in it. A set of sights, with a white dot front, sit on top. The sights are Glock compatible, so you can upgrade them to any of the various Glock sights out there. I stuck on a set of XS Sights tall big dots. I did this because the FX-9 RP is also cut for a RMSc footprint optic. Be careful when you pull the optic cover plate off, there is a small spring under it that the pistol needs to function properly. Primary Arms sent me one of their Classic Series red dots to use on the N96 Arms. 

  The extras that come with the FX-9 RP are a nice touch. As kind of mentioned earlier, it comes with 3 cleaning brushes. Who doesn’t need extra cleaning brushes? It also comes with a little metal punch for removing pins. Mainly for use when changing the backstraps, as they have a roll pin holding them in. Then comes the paddle holster. It is a level 2 retention holster. So it has a button that must be pressed to release the pistol. Kind of nice, especially for those worried about their pistol staying in the holster. The paddle is adjustable for cant. I did run into a problem, though minor, with the holster. It will not work with the taller sights that I installed. Anyone using this holster probably isn’t putting tall sights on it anyhow, so take it for what it is. The last nice addition is a magazine loader. It is just the “push down over the mag” style, but it works great.

  Now for my experience with the N96 Arms FX-9 RP. The FX-9 RP can rival some US made firearms. Build quality is great. The sights are good from the factory and being able to use Glock replacement sights is a nice touch. As previously mentioned, the trigger is great and lets you shoot fast and accurately. Accuracy is comparable with any other duty pistol. I really like how the grip is short front to back, it gives more versatility for those with smaller hands. Using common CZ75 magazines, that are not very expensive, is also great. I used some of my small frame EAA Witness magazines in the FX-9 RP and they worked fine. Not being able to use common holsters is kind of a bummer, but there is a way around that. Just put a light on it and use a light bearing holster, that’s what I ended up doing with it. Yes, it comes with an OWB holster, but it’s really only good for range use. Actually shooting the FX-9 is nice. I was able to flip the safety off without even thinking about it, thanks to thousands of reps with a 1911 in a past era. I think the FX-9 RP would be a great pistol for someone who is just starting out. Or someone that has just one gun. It could be carried, but I see it more as a bedside gun. Mainly for someone that wants a fullish size pistol, with the extra added peace of mind that a manual safety gives them. Add in night sights and an optic and you have a really good, easy shooting pistol.

  If you are looking for a decently priced pistol, that has a lot of features, go take a look at the N96 Arms FX-9 RP. Don’t let the fact that it is imported shy you away, it is a very good pistol. It has great features and can take aftermarket sights and optics. N96 Arms did a nice job with the FX-9 RP. Check one out over at North 96 Outdoors.

Firearms Insider Reviews - Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Value priced pistol with a ton of features

Target Market:

Anyone wanting a pistol for home defense, range, or carry

Features, Benefits, and Specifications of this product:

  • Style:  Single Action Semi Auto

  • Manufacturer:  Agaoglu Aviation and Defence Industry

  • Caliber:  9mm Luger

  • Weight:  25.2 oz without magazine

  • Barrel Length: 4.1”

  • Overall Length: 7.3”

  • Height:  5.6”

  • Width:  1.38”

  • Mag Capacity:  17+1  Compatible with CZ 75 mags

  • Sights: Adjustable HiViz

  • Material:  Steel Slide, Poly Body

  • Picatinny Rail

  • Manual Ambi Safety

  • Striker Indicator

  • Interchangeable Backstraps - S, M, & L included

  • 2 magazines included

  • Paddle holster included

  • Mag loader included

  • RMSc optics cut with plate

  • Uses Glock iron sights

  • Lifetime warranty 

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

Gray, Sand, or Green

What others are saying?:

Nothing found as of publishing

Link to other reviews:

Nothing found, but GB Guns did a very similar review  

Price point:

MSRP = $379.00

Retail = Same

I need it now! Availability:

North 96 Outdoors

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Trigger pull

  • Adjustability due to Backstraps

  • Good grip texture

  • Uses Glock sights

  • Optic cut

  • Uses readily available magazines (CZ75)

  • Comes with extras

Cons:

  • Safety

  • Holster compatibility 

Score: 8.00 Great

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Civivi SOKN

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Civivi SOKN

Review

  Having a good little fixed blade knife can be very useful. If it is the right size, it can be used as a defensive knife or a good little hunting knife. Civivi and Kyle Lamb have brought out the SOKN fixed blade. The SOKN is targeted as a defensive tactical blade, but I found it to be very useful for other knife type things. 

  SOKN is an old Norse word meaning fight or attack. This is a fitting name for this little fixed blade, especially since it is designed as a defensive fighting knife. I still want a gun in a knife fight, but that may not always be feasible. Since it is a fighting knife, the SOKN comes with a multi use sheath. This sheath has either adjustable belt loops or a hook. The hook is so the knife sheath can be caught on the pocket when drawing the knife. 

  The SOKN is a very well designed fixed blade. It starts with the full tang blade and G10 handle. The inverse grip handle helps make the knife useful for both types of grip. On the end of the handle, at the butt, is a little “foot”. This “foot” lets you rest your thumb on the handle when using an inverse grip. It basically gives you more stabbing leverage. When using the SOKN with a normal grip, the little “foot” keeps your hand from sliding off the end. Another advantage to the “foot” is that it gives your hand something to catch while drawing the SOKN from its sheath. For as small as the handle is, I was able to get a good comfortable grip on it.

  Blade design and steel are always important, no matter what style of knife you are using. The SOKN uses a 2.82 inch Nitro-V stainless steel blade. It is a drop point style and flat ground. Civivi also put decent jimping on the spine of the blade. I like drop point style blades. The shape of the SOKN makes it good for just about any task, including stabbing things. Because of the blade shape, the SOKN would also make a decent skinning knife. You can also use the SOKN as a replacement for a folder, when a folder just won’t work. 

  Back to the sheath that comes with the SOKN. The kydex sheath really helps to make the SOKN so useful. First, the belt loops are adjustable and have some pretty great snaps on them. These belt loops are designed to carry the SOKN horizontally on a belt. I carried the SOKN for a little bit this way and it worked fine for me. Where the belt loops mount on the sheath, there are 4 riveted style holes. Since the sheath kind of curves up, you can change how the knife carries. The end hole can also be used for a chain, so that you can use the system as a large neck knife. The sheath also has a sharpish hook on it. This hook is intended for pocket carry. When you draw the SOKN out, this hook catches on the inside of your pocket, keeping the sheath in your pocket and allowing the knife to be ready to go. The SOKN also has a removable, and reversible pocket clip so the knife and sheath don’t just float around inside your pocket. Pocket carry is how I carry this little knife and it works extremely well.

 The SOKN is my first fixed blade defensive knife that I actually use. I absolutely love the sheath system. I am a big fan of drop point blade styles because they just work for everything I do with a knife. Nitro-V steel has proven to be a good knife steel. It is hard and holds an edge well. With a weight of just under 3 ounces, you can carry this knife anywhere and not know its there. I have two minor complaints with the SOKN. One, I would like the blade length to be a little longer. Somewhere in the 3-3.25 inch range would be just a tad bit better. Lastly, I would like a better way to mount it vertically on something like a vest. Overall, I really think the SOKN is a great little knife.

  If you are looking at getting a good little defensive knife, the Civivi SOKN might be a great pick. It isn’t just a defensive knife, it can be used for all types of “knife” things. I can see keeping one with your hunting equipment, or just in your car. It really has that many uses. I prefer to call the SOKN an everyday, all around, knife. Go check the SOKN out and see if it makes sense for you.

Firearms Insider Reviews - Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Small fixed blade defensive knife

Target Market:

Anyone wanting a small fixed blade

Features, Benefits, and Specifications of this product:

  • Overall Length: 7.17" / 182.1mm

  • Width: 1.46" / 37.1mm

  • Overall Height (Includes Clip): 0.56" / 14.2mm

  • Blade Length: 2.82" / 71.6mm

  • Cutting Edge Length: 2.58" / 65.6mm

  • Handle Length: 4.35" / 110.5mm

  • Blade Thickness: 0.12" / 3mm

  • Handle Thickness: 0.35" / 9mm

  • Knife Weight: 2.93oz / 83g

  • Blade Material: Nitro-V

  • Blade Hardness: 59-61HRC

  • Blade Grind: Flat

  • Blade Finish: Stonewashed

  • Blade Type: Drop Point

  • Handle Material: G10

  • Handle Color/Finish: Black

  • Pocket Clip: Tip-Down, L/R

  • Clip Material: Stainless Steel 

  • Clip Screws / Tubes Material: Stainless Steel 

  • Sheath: Black Kydex Sheath With 2PCS Black Straps

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

Gray Handles   

What others are saying?:

5 out 5 stars on Amazon

I bought this knife to have a lightweight cutting tool that would replace my folding knife. I have been impressed with the sharpness and ergonomics of the handle. The sheath allows for several choices of carry. When I carry this knife I often forget that it’s there. Excellent blade for hiking, self defense, and utility chores. The Nitro V steel lends itself to operate in a multitude of environments. Worth every penny.

Link to other reviews:

Gear Patrol  

Price point:

MSRP = $105.00

Retail = $89.25

I need it now! Availability:

Civivi, Amazon, or your local dealer

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Great size

  • Full tang

  • Sheath with multiple mounting options

  • Multi purpose blade

  • Reverse grip works well both ways

  • Nitro-V steel

Cons:

  • Blade could be a little longer

Score: 8.50

Favorite Link:  Traser P99A review   

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Primary Arms SLx RS-10R

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Primary Arms

SLx RS-10R Review

  Primary Arms has come out with their new SLx RS-10R. This is an updated version of the original RS-10 reflex style red dot. One of the big complaints about the original was the mounting footprint it used. Well, the SLx RS-10R has fixed that issue. 

  As with the original, the SLx RS-10R is packed with features. More important than all of those is the “R” designation at the end of the model number. That “R” stands for RMR. I don't think Primary Arms can say it, but we can. What that means for you is that the RS-10R now uses a RMR footprint. Or a Holosun 407C/507C footprint since they are essentially the same. The only drawback to using the RMR footprint is that the RS-10R now uses the smaller cr1632 battery instead of a cr2032. But through some magic, you still get 25k-50k hours of battery life. 

  Now back to the rest of the specifications. The RS-10R runs a 3 moa dot. I find the dot size to be a good compromise, no matter if you mount it on a pistol or rifle. It has 11 brightness settings. Of which, the bottom 2 are night vision compatible. To adjust the brightness, the RS-10R has soft touch buttons on the left side. When you reach the highest brightness setting, the dot will flash so you know when the limit has been reached. You also don't have to worry about turning the RS-10R on or off. It uses Primary Arms’ “Autolive” technology. This tech automatically turns the optic off when it is stationary and then on when it senses movement. Worth noting is the RS-10R has 1 moa click adjustments that uses a flathead to adjust. One can even use the rim of a spent case to adjust it, which I have done before. No trying to find the correct allen wrench. These clicks are tiny, but way better than no clicks at all. 

  Window size in these small red dots can be hard to understand sometimes. Manufactures spec the window size out, but it doesn't take into account if it is rounded or squared. Or where it is rounded and squared. I recommended looking through them to see if you like the window shape. Even though the RS-10R doesn't have a huge window, it is very well shaped to pick up the dot easily. Primary Arms specifies it as 23x19mm. I really like the shape. It is easy for me to see. Other people who I asked about it said the same thing, it's easy to find the dot. Primary Arms also fixed the refresh problem on the RS-10R. The original RS-10 would “galaxy” out because the refresh rate was too slow. The RS-10R does not have this problem. The dot stays consistent when moved and doesn't flash. 

  The SLx RS-10R uses an aluminum housing. They use 7075 aluminum which is a little stronger than the commonly used 6061. I like how the housing sticks out farther than the lens, giving it a little more protection from drops. One drawback to the RS-10R's construction is the higher deck height of the mounting surface. It sits higher up than some red dots. This doesn't hurt anything, but you do notice it when installing taller iron sights.  

  I ended up mounting the RS-10R on the Fusion XF-Pro. The XF-Pro uses a mounting plate system. This leads to you noticing the RS-10R’s deck height even more. It didn’t bother anything and I can pick up the dot easily. The dot on the RS-10R is pretty clear, even with my astigmatism. What I really like about the RS-10R, besides being an RMR footprint, is the window. For some reason I just pick the dot up quickly with the way the window is shaped. I am glad Primary Arms updated the RS-10 to an RMR footprint and fixed the refresh problems. It performs great.

  I know there are a million reflex pistol red dots on the market now, but the Primary Arms SLx RS-10R is a great option. You get a lifetime warranty. It has a side-loading battery with their “Autolive” on/off function. Plus it now features that RMR footprint everyone was asking for. If you are in the market for a pistol red dot, definitely go check out the new SLx RS-10R. 

Firearms Insider Reviews - Key Points

Claim to Fame:

RMR footprint red dot

Target Market:

Anyone wanting a pistol style red dot with a RMR footprint

Features, Benefits, and Specifications of this product:

  • Battery Life: 25,001 - 50,000 Hours

  • Battery TypeCR1632 3V Lithium Coin

  • Side-loading CR1632 battery

  • Click Value: 1 MOA

  • Open Emitter

  • Finish: Hardcoat Anodized

  • 7075 Aluminum construction

  • Mount Compatibility: Holosun 407C/507C, RMR

  • Night Vision Compatible

  • 11 Brightness settings

  • 23 x 19mm window

  • 3 MOA Dot

  • Lifetime Warranty

  • Weight: 1.1 oz.

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

Original SLx RS-10

What others are saying?:

Nothing found as of publishing

Link to other reviews:

Beyond Seclusion on YouTube   

Price point:

MSRP = $209.00

Retail = Same

I need it now! Availability:

Primary Arms, Midway USA, or your local gun store

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • RMR / Holosun 507c footprint

  • Click adjustments

  • Side loading battery

  • Autolive

  • Lifetime warranty

Cons:

  • Deck height

Score: 8.50 Great

Favorite Link:  Fusion XF-Pro Review    

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Sightmark Presidio 5-30x56

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Sightmark Presidio

5-30x56 LR2 Review

  When it comes to magnified optics, prices and quality can range drastically. Sightmark is not new to these magnified optics and has various different product lines. Sightmark's Presidio line is somewhere in the middle of what they have to offer, which fits with what I was going to do with it. 

  I was looking for a fairly high power magnified optic. That is where Sightmark came in. They have a first focal plane Presidio in 5-30x56. It has a mil style Christmas tree reticle called the LR2. It was perfect for the Bergara I was reviewing. This much magnification makes it easier for my eyes to see targets at distance. So testing accuracy on the Bergara was easy thanks to the Presidio 5-30.

  The specifications of the Presidio 5-30 are really what make it a great optic. That 6x zoom makes it possible to see fairly close up and still reach out. Its large 56mm objective lens allows good light transmission so you can see your target, even at dusk on high magnification. The 30mm one piece body makes it easy to find scope mounts. The parallax adjustment is adjustable from 20 yds to infinity, so the Presidio can still work well on a PCP style airgun or even a 22 long rifle. It has an illuminated red reticle so you can see it better at dusk or dawn. Plus, if you want it, Sightmark throws in a throw lever. All the other details are down below in the Features and Benefit section.

  Sightmark uses their LR2 Mil reticle in the Presidio. This reticle is a pretty standard First Focal Plane Christmas tree style reticle (see picture). Since it is a first focal plane, the stadia marks of the reticle stay the same size throughout the magnification range. The LR2 reticle has windage and elevation marks at 0.5 mil increments, with mil numbers at 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10 mils. Out at the outer left, right, and top are 0.1 mil marks. They are intended to give a more accurate range estimation, when using the reticle for determining the range to a target. The Christmas tree dots can be used to combine wind and elevation holds, giving you a precise reference on where to aim. Lastly, the stadia line thickness is 0.03 mils, so you get a super precise aiming point. If you want the full hash marked reticle in view, you can only adjust the scope’s power up to 18x. After that the reticle starts to get cut off in the window. At 30x, you get about 2⁄3 's of the reticle’s marked stadia. 

  When looking at optics in this price range, optic clarity is huge. The Presidio 5-30 pleasantly surprised me for a $500 optic. When looking through the optic, it is very clear and has very little chromatic abrasion throughout the magnification range. Eye relief is decent. However, I did notice a slight difference between 5x and 30x. The weird part is that 30x seemed more forgiving than 5x, Usually it is the other way around and the lower magnification is more forgiving on eye relief. The field of view, or the width of what you see looking through the scope, is a little narrower than some optics. So finding a target at the higher magnifications can be a little more difficult. I wouldn’t call this a deal breaker for sure, just something to note for some shooters. 

  Having an illuminated reticle on the Presidio is nice. It is not daylight bright, but it is not intended to be. If you are shooting in lower light, or even cloud cover, it works nicely. There are 6 brightness adjustments on the left turret. In between each level is an “off” resting spot. I really like having an off position between brightness levels. That way I don’t have to try and remember to turn the knob all the way to the off position. Sightmark says the battery life on the Presidio has a 150 hour average. So at lower levels you can get up to 500 hours. This may not sound like a lot, but that's basically a week of being turned on all the time, or more. 

  The Presidio 5-30 uses target style turrets. I think these style turrets were a good option for the Presidio. They don’t stick up too far and are large enough to get a good grip on. The turrets produce a decent click when adjusting them and it can be felt. Each click adjusts the scope by 0.1 mil. The elevation turret has numbers 0-9, with 10 hash marks between the numbers. Each number is 1 mil and each hash mark is 0.1 mil. The windage knob has a zero position, then it is marked either 1R, 2R, etc, or 1L, 2L, etc. Each number is also 1 mil with 0.1 mil hash marks between them. For example, if the bullet needs to go left, just move the dial toward 1L. Both the windage and elevation knobs can be set to zero once you are sighted in. On the left side of the Presidio is the parallax knob and the brightness knob. These are pretty self explanatory. A win for the Presidio is that it also comes with a zero stop. This is very uncommon for optics in the Presidio’s price range. The zero stop is also easy to install. 

Radio tower lamp is approximately 300 yds away

  As mentioned previously, I mounted up the Sightmark Presidio on a Bergara bolt action rifle. The rifle is a 308 win. I found the Presidio to perform well enough on that platform. The eye relief made it harder to get the scope forward enough with normal picatinny rings. If I had an extended pic rail mounted on the Bergara, that would have helped. One disadvantage of the Presidio is its 30 mm tube. Because of this, you only get 18 mils of travel out of it. With the Bergara’s 20 moa base, I still only get 12.5 mils of up adjustment in the Presidio. That means that I can only dial the optic out to a range of around 1100 yards with the 308 cartridge. I don’t expect to ever shoot this past that, but it is something that I feel needed mentioning. The Presidio 5-30 is heavy, like 2 pounds worth. I know it isn’t a small optic, and other optics in this price range weigh about the same, but I was hoping for a little lighter. Other than that, I have been happy with the Presidio. I just can’t get over how clear the optic is.

  If you are looking at a decent optic to get into longer range shooting, the Sightmark Presidio 5-30x56 may be it. It has great glass for an optic in this price range. The nice turrets and zero stop make it a great choice for whatever you are doing. Yes it has some performance limitations, but in this price range, that can be expected. If you are looking for that decent, entry level, long range optic, the Sightmark Presidio might be a good choice for you.

Firearms Insider Reviews - Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Variable power, budget friendly, high magnification first focal plane optic

Target Market:

Anyone looking for a quality higher powered first focal plane optic 

Features, Benefits, and Specifications of this product:

  • Reticle brightness settings: 6

  • Magnification (x): 5-30

  • Objective lens diameter (mm): 56

  • Eyepiece diameter (in/mm): 1.74 / 44.1

  • Exit pupil diameter (mm): 36.6

  • Eye relief (in/mm): 3.7 / 95

  • Field of view (ft @100yd): 22ft - 3.7ft

  • Tube diameter (mm/in): 30 / 1.18

  • Parallax setting (yds): 20 - ∞

  • Mil adjustment (one click =): 1/10

  • Windage adjustment range (MRAD): 18

  • Elevation adjustment range (MRAD): 18

  • Zero stop included

  • Throw lever included

  • Maximum caliber: .338

  • Battery type: CR2032

  • Battery life (hours): 150 - 500 hrs

  • Shockproof, Fog proof 

  • 1st Focal plane

  • IP67 - waterproof and dustproof

  • Body material: Aluminum

  • Fully multi-coated lenses

  • Operating temperature (°F/°C): -20 to 160 / -29 to 71 F/C

  • Length (in/mm): 15.67 / 398.02

  • Width (in/mm): 3.79 / 96.25

  • Height (in/mm): 3.02 / 76.71

  • Weight (oz): 33 oz

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

3-18x50

What others are saying?:

5 out of 5 stars from Randy on Optics Planet  

I was skeptical at first, decided to take a chance because it had a lifetime warranty and I watched a video on it from one the head tech/designer at Sightmark. I was impressed so I bought it. I wasn’t disappointed when I got it. This scope feels like a much more expensive scope. Turrets are solid, audible and precise. Has an elevation stop and removable turret caps to set back to zero when you’re done sighting. The throw lever on the magnification works really well. Clarity is very good, high and low. It weighs as much or more than scopes costing twice as much. I have it on an AR 50 A1 - .50 BMG and have put 12 rounds on it with no issues so far. As solid as it is and the few rounds I’ll shoot a lot of .50 BMG I don’t see any issues forthcoming.

Link to other reviews:

The Gun Zone  

Price point:

MSRP = $539.97

Retail = $449.97 on Amazon

I need it now! Availability:

Amazon, SightMark, MidwayUSA, or your local dealer

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Great clarity

  • LR2 mil reticle

  • First Focal Plane

  • Illuminated reticle

  • Target turrets

  • Zero Stop

Cons:

  • Long

  • Heavy

  • Long eye relief

  • Small elevation adjustment range

Score: 7.50 Good

Favorite Link:  Bergara B-14 Ridge SP Review  

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Civivi Buster FG

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Civivi Buster FG

Review

Over the last few years I’ve really come to enjoy collecting knives. They are so fascinating and the designs that people come up with are really interesting. One brand that I have found myself loving and trusting with an excellent build quality is Civivi. As I’ve collected knives I’ve noticed that I like larger folding knives. So when I saw the Buster FG, I just had to get one.  From the massive size of the knife to the new locking style, we’ve got a lot of great stuff to talk about. So let’s see what makes this knife my new favorite Civivi.

Handle:

The Buster FG features a coarse black G10 handle over a golden stainless steel frame to give it a great two tone look. I personally really wanted this color option because it reminds me of my favorite comic book crime fighter who dresses like a bat. The coarse G10 scales on the handle have a rough finish on them to give you the ability to get a really good grip on it. And with the handle being roughly 5 inches long, you can definitely get a great grip on this knife!  Plus it has a reversible pocket clip. Because of the handle material, it stays in my pocket really well. One of my only gripes about it, which is to be expected by a knife of this size, is when it's closed… it’s massive in your pocket. But again, when opened it's almost 10” long. So it’s a big one!

Blade:

One thing that makes the Buster FG different from a lot of Civivi’s knives is its size. This is one of the largest folding knives they have released. The blade on this knife is a sheepsfoot style that measures in at a whopping 4.2” / 106.8mm. To top that off, the blade material is Nitro V. Which is a really great steel for an everyday carry, particularly in corrosion resistance and edge retention. Nitro V is also a steel that can be sharpened very easily. I was helping a friend build some furniture and got the task of cutting down all the cardboard and styrofoam sheets. After slicing up multiple 5 foot sheets of cardboard and styrofoam, this blade is still wicked sharp! Like most folding knives, it has jimping on the back of the blade. When I first got the knife, I wasn’t crazy about it. It just didn’t feel rugged enough or like it had enough grip. But as I used it and really cut stuff, I noticed that it was actually a really great amount and helped me get good control of the blade.

Opening:

The opening on the Buster FG is quite smooth. I was very curious as to how Civivi’s new Super Lock would affect the opening. And just like every Civivi knife I own or have used, it opens really nicely and like I said… smooth. And that’s thanks to the caged ceramic ball bearings they use. For opening styles on the knife you get two thumb studs or you can pull back on the Super Lock and flick the blade out. That is something else about this knife, I wish it had a flipper for opening. But, with this new lock style, that just wouldn’t work because the flipper would get in the way of the lock.

The Lock:

For the Buster FG, Civivi used their new Super Lock. The lock works similar to a crossbar lock. On the backside of the handle there is a spring loaded bar with a finger tab sticking out. On the inside of the blade, near the bearing, there is a cut out slot. So when you open the knife, that slot lines up with the lock bar, then the spring pushes the lock bar into place, locking the blade. It’s a really great locking system that I have really come to enjoy and trust. It feels similar to a back lock, which is very common on Buck style knives. Once it clicks into place, it feels very solid like a fixed blade. I really like how easy it is to unlock. But it’s not easy to accidentally unlock it while using it. I would definitely like to see this lock more on other knives!

Summary:

Civivi has a lot of knives to offer ranging from big to small and in many different styles. The Buster FG has definitely become my favorite Civivi knife I own. It fits very comfortably in my hand and I really dig the new Super Lock. Plus, I love how massive it is (that’s what she said). If you are looking for a big folding knife to use as your everyday carry, I would highly recommend the Civivi Buster FG! 

Firearms Insider Reviews - Key Points

Claim to Fame: 

A large folding knife with a unique, stylish design and a very convenient lock. 

Target Market:

Anyone who is wanting a large and tough everyday carry knife that has a unique look.

Features, Benefits, and Specifications of this product:
 

  • Overall Length: 9.65" / 245mm

  • Width: 1.72" / 43.6mm

  • Overall Height(Include Clip): 0.68" / 17.2mm

  • Blade Length: 4.2" / 106.8mm

  • Closed Length: 5.47" / 139mm

  • Blade Thickness: 0.16" / 4mm

  • Handle Thickness: 0.51" / 13mm

  • Knife Weight: 6.46oz / 183.1g

  • Blade Material: Nitro-V

  • Blade Hardness: 58-60HRC

  • Blade Grind: Flat

  • Blade Finish: Black Stonewashed, Satin Flat

  • Blade Type: Sheepsfoot

  • Handle Material: Coarse G10

  • Handle Color/Finish: Black

  • Back Spacer Material: Stainless Steel

  • Back Spacer Color/Finish: Black

  • Liner Material: Stainless Steel

  • Liner Color/Finish: Golden

  • Pocket Clip: Tip-Up, L/R

  • Clip Material: Stainless Steel

  • Screws / Thumb Stud Material: Stainless Steel

  • Pivot Assembly: Caged Ceramic Ball Bearing

  • Locking Mechanism: Superlock

  • Opener: Manual Thumb

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

Neutral blue course G10 handle / Satin finished Nitro-V

Green canvas micarta / Black Stonewashed Nitro-V

What others are saying?:

Exceeded High Expectations

I was excited about this knife when I preordered it. You never really know how nice it is until you get it in your hand. This is the smoothest, sharpest knife (out of the box) in my collection. Flicking this knife open the first time was how I imagine every knife I order will be. Very few blow me an away like this one did. Especially in this price range. I haven’t seen any mark on the choil from the stop pin. Specx did an amazing job putting my mind at ease about that. Hair splitting sharp out of the box you really can’t go wrong. It was even bigger than it looks in the pictures. Same length as a Kizer Momo.

Link to other reviews:

Sharp Ends on YouTube

Price point:

MSRP - $115.00

Retail - $97.75 on Amazon

I need it now! Availability:

Civivi or Amazon

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Great and secure locking system.

  • Fantastic grip on the handle

  • Very large, allowing you to get a good grip on it.

  • Awesome blade steel that has stayed sharp.

Cons:

  • When it’s closed and in your pocket. It’s almost a little too big. 

  • I wish it had a flipper on it. But I understand why it doesn’t.

Score: 9.00 Amazing

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Bergara B-14 Ridge SP

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Bergara B-14 Ridge SP

Review

  Years ago I had a 308 varmint rifle that weighed a ton. I even took it deer hunting. So since then I have been looking for something shorter, and lighter, that still has the accuracy I got out of the varmint rifle. Bergara had exactly what I was looking for in their Ridge line of rifles. That rifle is the Ridge SP in 308 winchester.

  The Ridge SP is a shorter version of Bergara's standard Ridge line. The SP stands for “special purpose”. I think they intended this rifle for police snipers, but I can’t be sure. Really, the special purpose could be mid range hunting, or just someone wanting a bolt action performance rifle that doesn't weigh a ton. The only real difference between the .308 Ridge and the .308 Ridge SP, is that the SP has an 18 inch barrel instead of the standard 20 inch. 

  When you first look at the Ridge SP, it looks like most “hunting” style rifles. It has the normal looking American style stock with a hinged floor plate. The stock is a black polymer style with grey speckles. Bergara finished the stock in some sort of a semi-grippy coating. It is not smooth, but not sticky either. It gives a really good balance of grip if your hands are wet or muddy. It also has some diamond texture on the pistol grip and forend. There is also a nice soft buttpad. The buttpad probably helps more on the larger calibers, but it is really nice on the 308. To round out the stock, it has front and rear sling swivel studs and free floats the barrel. 

  Bergara is known for their barrels. Their barrels produce some good accuracy. They even have an accuracy guarantee. It is “Sub MOA at 100 yds with 3 shot groups of available factory match grade ammunition”. They recommend a few loads in 308 that should work. Those are: 168 gr Federal Gold Medal Match, 175 gr. Federal Gold Medal Match, Berger 175 gr OTM. I didn’t have any of these on hand, so I used some Norma 175 gr Golden Target and some 168 gr reloads I had made up. I was able to get 3 shot groups under 1 MOA fairly easily with the Ridge SP. I even have some 5 shot groups that measure under 1 MOA. All my accuracy testing was done at 100 yards. The barrels on the Ridge line are also threaded in the standard threads for whatever caliber they are chambered in. This gives the ability to put on any type of muzzle device, including suppressors. As a FYI, I broke in the barrel following the procedure in the rifles manual.

  The action on the Ridge SP is fantastic. It is super smooth to operate. For being a factory, mass produced rifle, I don't think you will find a smoother action, especially in the under $1000 price range that the Ridge SP falls into. Now that that is said, the action also feeds extremely nice out of the 4 round internal magazine. The large textured bolt handle tends to give you a good feel for what you are doing. It is also large enough to help with fast follow up shots. Something I couldn’t say about that varmint rifle I had.

  On top of the Ridge SP’s action is a 20 MOA picatinny scope rail. I believe this is because it is the SP line and Bergara doesn’t mention that it comes with one. If you want to change the rail or put normal scope mounts on the Ridge SP, it uses standard Remington 700 bases. I mounted a 4-16 Lucid on it when I first received the SP. Shortly after that I received a SightMark Presidio 5-30x56 and installed it. Yes, it is overkill for a rifle of this type, but I like it. One of my only complaints, with the scope rail, is that it gets in the way of loading the internal magazine. 

  The Bergara Ridge comes with an adjustable trigger. For a “hunting” style rifle, the trigger is fantastic. It’s a typical Remington style 700 trigger and can be replaced with any of the aftermarket triggers for that style of rifle. The trigger is a single stage, curved, and has zero take up, a short crisp break, and a little bit of over travel. I really like this trigger. The Ridge’s trigger is also adjustable for pull weight, from around 2 pounds up to 5 pounds. This one came from the factory at 3 pounds. I adjusted it down to about 2-¼ pounds and it works really good for me. If I were carrying it around in the brush, I personally would probably adjust it to 3-½ pounds or more. An aftermarket trigger, with the same pull range, would be hard pressed to be better.

  I have been really liking the Ridge SP. Granted I am not going to put thousands of rounds through it for a review. But I do have enough different types of ammo through it to know how well it works. I am well past 300 with about half that being some sort of match ammo. The match ammo does shoot better, but the new precision style hunting rounds are pretty good too. Now onto other stuff. I really like the texture of the stock. It is smooth but grippy. I’ve been told it feels weird, but then they shoot the Ridge SP with the stock and forget about it. My biggest complaint about the Ridge SP is the small loading/ejection port. This makes it harder to load the internal magazine. Add in the 20 MOA top rail, and it is even harder to load the magazine. For a hunting rifle this isn’t a deal breaker, but it is annoying. Speaking of that 20 MOA rail, I was thrilled that it came already installed. Even if you are only using the Ridge at 100 yards, a 20 MOA rail just makes sense. Did I mention the barrel is threaded? I did use it with a suppressor. The Ridge SP is a great suppressor host. The shorter barrel makes it so the overall length isn’t terrible with a long suppressor hanging off the end. The Ridge SP is just a great all around rifle.

  If you are in the market for a short, handy rifle, the Bergara Ridge SP would be a great choice. It has great accuracy, is super smooth, and doesn’t weigh a bunch. It really doesn’t matter if you are using it for hunting or anything else, it just works. The Bergara Ridge SP is also reasonably priced for what you get. If you want a quality, shorter barreled hunting rifle, definitely check out the Bergara Ridge Line. Especially the Ridge SP. 

Firearms Insider Reviews - Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Shorter barreled hunting or precision rifle

Target Market:

Anyone wanting a shorter barreled performance bolt action rifle

Features, Benefits, and Specifications of this product:

  • Caliber: 308 Win

  • Capacity: 4

  • 20 MOA picatinny mount included

  • Stock Material: Synthetic

  • OAL: 37.50"

  • Hand: Right Hand

  • Barrel Finish: Graphite Black Cerakote

  • Barrel Material: 4140 Steel

  • Twist: 1:10"

  • Receiver Material: Stainless Steel

  • Safety: Two-Position

  • Stock Type: American Style

  • Threaded: ⅝-24

  • Barrel Length: 18"

  • Receiver Finish: Graphite Black Cerakote

  • Trigger: Performance adjustable 2-5 lbs

  • Weight: 7.20 lbs

  • Stock Finish: Black / Gray Speckled

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

A ton of different calibers in the Ridge line. Only 6.5 Creedmoore and .308 Win in SP line with 18” barrel

What others are saying?:

Jamie P at Sportsmans Warehouse  

Ridge SP

This is a great rifle and accurate! Great everything rifle. I like the 18" barrel. Georgia Woods Hunting mostly some open field 300 yds shooting. Great action and the Ridge SP is very balanced and is comfortable to carry with a sling.

Link to other reviews:

Petersen’s Hunting

Price point:

MSRP = $999.00

Retail = $900

I need it now! Availability:

Primary Arms or Palmetto State Armory

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Super smooth action

  • Accuracy

  • Uses Rem 700 style action and accessories 

  • Adjustable trigger

  • Good weight

  • 20 MOA picatinny rail came mounted on rifle

  • Threaded barrel

Cons:

  • Ejection port is short (so loading internal magazine is difficult)

Score: 8.50 Great

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Fusion XF-Pro

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Fusion Firearms

XF Pro Review

  I am a huge fan of new, feature rich, handguns at an affordable price. When I say new, I don’t mean just another Glock clone or Sig remake. Fusion Firearms has brought out a new compact handgun that is packed with features. It is the Fusion XF-Pro 9mm. They were gracious enough to send the Black and Bronze version out for this review.

  When you first see the Fusion XF-Pro, you notice a bunch of things. First is that they designed it to be an all metal handgun and the machining on the outside is just perfect. Next you notice the aluminum grip panels it uses. It came with the bronze camo ones installed and an extra set of all black grip panels. More important is that the XF-Pro uses common Glock magazines. It comes with 2 in the box. After that, you notice that it is optics compatible and comes with the plates you need. There is also a cleaning kit and some empty brass test shells in the box.

  The Fusion XF-Pro’s frame is made from aluminum. This gives the compact pistol some weight. It weighs in at 33.4 ounces with an optic and empty magazine, or around 31 without an optic. The XF-Pro’s frame design looks like a CZ-75 and a Glock had a kid. The backstrap dips in at the top, like a CZ-75. But then the grip kind of resembles a Glock. Both the front and rear backstrap have some curved lines on them for grip. It runs a large squared trigger guard with some texture lines on the front. Then there is a 3 slot picatinny rail for mounting lights or whatever. The magazine button is raised and only on the left side. The grip panels have small golf ball style dimples. Probably the coolest feature of the XF-Pro is the machined in thumb rest on the left side of the frame. At least if you are right handed, because on the right side of the frame is some indexing texture for your trigger finger, not another thumb rest. 

  Fusion did a nice job of designing the slide on the XF-Pro. It has front and rear angled serrations. These serrations look good, plus they are useful. I would personally like them cut a little deeper. That way you can grip them better if your hands are wet or muddy. The top of the slide has a cut out for a ported barrel. Fusion sells a ported barrel for the XF-Pro, if you want some extra recoil mitigation. On each side of the port cutout is also some very aggressive texture. This is so you can get some grip, if you need to rack the slide on a table or barricade. The XF-Pro slide also has some side window cuts that allow you to see the bronze Gen 4 Glock compatible fluted barrel. Both the barrel and slide have a Tennifer finish.  

  As we move back on the slide, you will find a cutout for mounting optics. Fusion uses a plate system for the XF-Pro. It comes with 2 plates. One is for an RMR footprint optic. The other is for Truglo, Docter, Meopta, Insight, or Vortex footprints. I would like to see a RMSc plate, but since there is an included RMR one, I don't need it. I mounted the new Primary Arms RS-10R and one of their Classic series to the XF-Pro. Both mounted up easily with the supplied RMR plate. The optics sit really high with the plate. Even slightly higher than the slide. This makes it so that back up iron sights will not work with an optic, even suppressor height ones. However, even if you could get high enough sights, the XF-Pro uses 2 different types. The rear sight uses a Glock dovetail and the front uses a Novak dovetail. Fusion, please make them compatible with both a front and rear set from something that matches. Maybe a Sig or Springfield cut if you want to keep a front dovetail.

  Trigger pull is important to some people, I am one of those. The Fusion XF-Pro has a decent trigger for a striker fired handgun. It is a flat face style with a little hook at the end. It also uses a trigger safety. Both of these make it function, and look, very much like a Glock trigger, but better. It has a long take up stroke that is a little grainy. But after the initial take up, the trigger hits a short wall that breaks pretty clean. Reset on the trigger is pretty good. You can shoot the trigger from reset if you like, and that shortens the pull a bunch. My sample has a 4.75 pound pull. It started out around 5 pounds but works its way down a little. In all, it is a pretty decent trigger. To go along with the trigger is a striker indicator on the rear of the slide. A nice touch to let you know that the firearm is ready to fire.

  Performance on the XF-Pro is decent. I really liked shooting the pistol. The all metal construction just shoots so nice. I have only had one problem with feeding and I fed it various different types of ammunition. That one malfunction was a stovepipe malfunction, with cheap 124 gr ball ammo, and that was in the first 50 rounds. The gun seems to run just about anything I put in it. After that, it has gone another 900 without any problems. The thumb rest really helps get a good grip to help reduce some muzzle rise. Having the texture on the other side lets you know when your finger is not on the trigger. However, I do have a few complaints about the XF-Pro. When mounting an optic, it just sits too high above the slide. Does it affect anything? Not really, but it is hard to pick up the dot because of this. Next is that the grips are a little slick and could use more texture. Since it comes with 2 sets, I would like one of them to have a more aggressive texture. The XF-Pro also has a “tail” on the back of the grip frame. This tail makes some mag extensions not work in the gun. Lucky for us, all the extended Glock style magazines work. Another problem with the XF-Pro is that there isn’t any holster compatibility. It needs a special holster because of the thumb rest sticking out on the left side. Before I put the optic on the XF-Pro, I found the iron sights to be very useful. The serrated blacked out rear and white dot front worked well. Another feature I really like is the magazine release button. It is extended and makes dropping mags super easy. Thus making reloads quick. The Fusion XF-Pro is a fun gun to shoot.

  The Fusion Firearms XF-Pro is a nice sporty compact handgun. It has a lot of nice features that you will only find in higher priced handguns. Coming in at $550 makes it a good deal. Using Glock magazines and a few Glock parts makes it a win for anyone that already has Glocks, and if you don’t, the magazines are cheap. If you are in the market for a new handgun, I would check out the Fusion XF-Pro and see what you think.

Firearms Insider Reviews - Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Newly designed, aluminum framed, pistol that takes Glock magazines

Target Market:

Anyone wanting a compact pistol

Features, Benefits, and Specifications of this product:

  • Caliber: 9MM

  • Magazine Compatibility: Glock magazines

  • Construction: All bar-stock materials, precision CNC machined

  • Barrel: 4" fluted Glock Gen 4 compatible, Tennifer finish

  • Sights: Fixed combat sights, optic-ready with RMR and others  included

  • Trigger: Competition flat-face, one-piece steel milled

  • Grip: Interchangeable panels, Bronze Camo & Black included, aluminum & poly construction

  • Frame: Aluminum with tactical rail, Sure Grip checkering, Thumb rest, hard coat finish

  • Slide: Pro Serrations, Pro Window Cuts, Tennifer Finish

  • Recoil System: Full metal, Glock Gen 4&5 compatible

  • Overall Length: 7.29 inches

  • Weight: 26.5 oz / 1.66 lbs

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

Black or Chrome

What others are saying?:

Christopher at fusionfirearms.com

Excellent pistol

This pistol is awesome. Received today and went straight to the range to shoot some freedom seeds. 200 rounds and smooth as butter. Only critique I have is wishing this came with a magwell like the XP pro did!

Link to other reviews:

Gammage on YouTube   

GB Guns  

Price point:

MSRP = $549.99

Retail = $500.00

I need it now! Availability:

Palmetto State Armory or Guns.com

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • All Metal

  • Shoots nice

  • Takes Glock magazines and barrels

  • Thumb rest

  • Trigger pull

  • Comes with optic plated

Cons:

  • Not ambidextrous

  • Optics sit extremely high

  • Slick grips

  • Holster compatibility 

Score: 7.50 Good

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Global Ordnance Monolith

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Global Ordnance

Monolith Review

  A little over a year ago, Global Ordnance teased their Monolith rifle and pistol. As is usual when introducing a new rifle, it took some time to get them into production. But alas, here we are. I was one of the first few to receive one to fully try out and review! The Monolith rifle has a ton of features over your standard AR15. I think you will like hearing about them. 

  To start with, the Global Ordnance Monolith is not your fathers AR15. Yes, most of the parts are semi-interchangeable with a standard AR15. Some of those compatible parts are the complete upper receiver assembly, trigger, and the safety selectors. For clarification, the Monolith upper can be used on a standard AR, but a standard AR upper can not be used on the Monolith. Other parts are proprietary, but in a good way. 

  You might ask what is in the name “Monolith”? That is where some of the improvements come in. The Monolith is designed with a single piece barrel assembly. So the muzzle brake, gas block, barrel, and barrel extension are all one machined piece. Unlike an AR15 where those would be four separate pieces. The Monolith also utilizes a 45 degree gas tube that uses a fuel injection style fitting. This eliminates needing a roll pin to hold the gas tube in place. So by re-engineering these parts, Global Ordnance has made a stronger and lighter barrel assembly that has less attached components, thus making a barrel system that has less failure points. 

  The first version of the Monolith comes with a Keymo style muzzle brake. As mentioned, this muzzle brake is machined into the barrel, so it is not removable. The Keymo muzzle brake was selected because it is a common muzzle device that can be used with a bunch of different suppressors. It also works very well as a muzzle brake, if you are not wanting to mount a suppressor, or live in a state that does not allow them. Threaded barrel options may be available in the future so that you can install your own muzzle brake of choice. 

  On the rear of the one piece barrel is the barrel extension. The barrel extension is what the bolt locks into to keep the cartridge in the chamber while firing. It also has cut outs, or feed ramps, machined into it. These help guide the cartridges out of the magazine and into the chamber. The Monolith uses an AR10 size extension. This is larger than an AR15 style, so you get more strength. The barrel is made from 4150 ordnance grade steel (the stuff they use on machine gun barrels) for added strength and barrel life. Therefore the extension is also 4150 since it is machined with the barrel. The barrel assembly/barrel extension is then thermal fit into the upper receiver. This is also done for strength, but also gives better accuracy than the slip fit of most AR15 barrels.

  Instead of the standard AR style recoil buffer system, the Monolith uses a bufferless system. The recoil system, as well as the bolt, are housed inside the upper receiver. This allows various things, but the main purpose is to get rid of the AR15's buffer tube.

  By getting rid of the buffer tube, one can install a true folding stock. Global Ordnance went one step farther and built the folding stock mechanism into the firearms lower receiver. The stock folds to the left side of the rifle. This gives you a rifle that can fire with the stock folded, all day long. The stock is a F5 ACR style modular stock system. The Monolith's stock is adjustable for length using some side buttons. It also has a little cheek piece that can be popped up higher. This is nice if using magnified optics. Inside the stock is also a little storage compartment for batteries or whatever. You can only access the compartment when the stock is folded. So if the stock is in the shooting position, those batteries are not falling out. 

  The manual of arms on the Monolith is a little different from a standard AR15. The Monolith's charging handle is a folding lever, forward of the receiver. Not the rear style like in that standard AR I keep mentioning. So the charging handle sits in the rifle's handguard, toward the top picatinny rail, on the left side. It folds forward when not in use. Otherwise, the handguard is a pretty standard MLOK style with a top rail. The charging handle can also be swapped over to the right side. The forward style charging handle works very well and is not hard to get used to. 

  One of my favorite features of the Monolith is that it is full ambidextrous. I already mentioned how the charging handle can be reversed, but there is way more. To start with, the lower receiver has full ambi controls. This includes the mag release, bolt release, and the safety. The safety comes with a short and long paddle, they are reversible to either side. If you want to take the grip off, you can change the safety from 90 degrees to 45. Both sides of the magazine release use a square button. The bolt releases are extended on the bottom to make it far easier to lock the bolt back. A key feature to the Monolith is the ability to drop the open bolt by just pushing down on the dust cover.

  There are only a few other things about that Monolith that need to be shared. First up is the trigger. It is a flat mil-spec trigger. It is slightly better than a standard mil-spec trigger. Its pull weight is about 5.5 pounds on this rifle and feels like it has a little less creep. Global Ordnance also spec’d out a B5 grip. The grip has good texture and matches the rifle nicely. Lastly, the Monolith only weighs 5.82 pounds out of the box! With a Primary Arms 1-10x28 and a full magazine, it only weighs 7.8 pounds. So the whole package is pretty light.

  The Monolith is a great rifle, but it does have some quirks. It comes with an extra recoil spring assembly. The extra is supposed to be for suppressor use. However, when I ran the Monolith with a suppressor and the “suppressor” spring, I had 2 short strokes and a failure to lock the bolt back on an empty magazine. This was in about 3 magazines. I switched back to the normal spring and it worked great, even with the suppressor. I ran around 200 rounds suppressed, after switching the recoil spring back to the original one. Other than those failures, the Monolith ran like a champ. Another problem I ran into was that I could not pull the charging handle back far enough to charge the rifle. After inspection, the charging handle carriage was binding where it goes through the receiver. I smoothed it out with a round file and have not had any problems since. The manufacturer has now since put a chamfer on the part, eliminating that problem. Lastly, the stock can flex a little if you really pull the rifle back into your shoulder. I never noticed it while shooting the Monolith, only when I was dry firing it. 

  Now to the good stuff. I really like how the Monolith shoots. The lightweight really makes it a joy to use. You can move from target to target quickly or get reasonable accuracy out of it. It averaged from 1.4 inches to 2 inches at 100 yards with almost any ammunition, from 55 grain up to the 75 grain. Global Ordnance supplied some 69 grain match ammo for the review, it grouped about 1.6 inches. I also really appreciated being able to drop the bolt by just pushing the dust cover down. The folding charging handle also works well as a kick stand so your hot suppressor does not touch the table and melt stuff. I also appreciated the folding stock, it is nice to have folding abilities in a rifle. Probably my favorite aspect of the Monolith is the one piece barrel assembly. Not only does it eliminate parts from the rifle, it is just a cool piece of engineering. 

  To improve the Monolith, I did add a few parts. Because I did not care for the trigger, I installed a flat Geissele SSP trigger courtesy of Primary Arms. This made a drastic improvement in how it feels and shoots. I am just not a fan of mil-spec triggers. During the testing, I also had a Holosun red dot mounted on it at first. Mainly it ran the Primary Arms SLx 1-10x28 with their Nova fiber dot reticle. This was a great choice for the Monolith. It let me do accuracy testing at 100 yards and do fast work up close. The Monolith was fine by itself, I just like better triggers. Plus, you can’t really do much without some sort of sight.

  If you are looking for an AR that is not an AR, but better, the Global Ordnance Monolith might be it. This rifle has all the features anyone could want. Plus the monolithic barrel assembly is just a great improvement. I enjoy the lightweight and ambi features of the Monolith too. Definitely go take a look at the Monolith, especially if you are looking for something different than your standard AR15.

Firearms Insider Reviews - Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Advanced AR15 style rifle

Target Market:

Anyone wanting an ARish rifle with the features mentioned in the review

Features, Benefits, and Specifications of this product:

  • Caliber: 5.56x45mm

  • Bufferless recoil system

  • Monolithic 1 piece barrel

  • Barrel Length: 16.1"

  • Barrel Material: 41v50 Black Nitride

  • Barrel Twist: 1:7

  • Gas Length: Mid Length with 45 degree port

  • Muzzle Device: Integrated Dead Air KeyMo 2-Port Brake

  • Heavy Duty AR10 size bolt

  • Safety: Ambidextrous Manual Safety

  • Weight: 5lb 14oz

  • Overall Length: 24.5" - 31.25"

  • Charging Handle: Forward Side Folding - swappable from left to right

  • Grip: B5 Systems P-Grip

  • Trigger: Flat AR-15 Trigger

  • Stock: F5 Modular Adjustable Folding Stock

  • Bolt Release : Ambidextrous with EP Cover Drop

  • Magazine Release : Ambidextrous

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

16” A2

12.5” Keymo Pistol 

10.5” Pistol A2   

12.5” Pistol w/Brace  

What others are saying?:

5 stars at GlobalOrdnance.com

I like that you did away with the two things I dislike about the ar 15. The buffer tube and the charging handle. I like the side charging handle and no buffer tube.

Link to other reviews:

American Rifleman  

RecoilWeb  

Price point:

MSRP = $1234.99

Retail = Same

I need it now! Availability:

Global Ordnance, Primary Arms, or your local gun store

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • One piece barrel assembly 

  • 308 size bolt for added strength 

  • No buffer tube

  • Lightweight 

  • Ambi controls

  • Built in folding stock

Cons:

  • Harder to charge compared to standard AR

  • Charging handle locked up (current models have been fixed) 

  • Stock flexes a little bit

Score: 8.00 Great

,

Traser P99 A Tactical Carbon

,

Traser P99 A Tactical

Watch Review

  A watch review was not on my radar. Then, Traser Watch sent me a press release. So I asked if I could review one of their new Tactical watches. Traser kindly sent me the new P99 A Tactical Carbon. It has tritium dials, an automatic Swiss movement, and a carbon fiber polymer case. 

  One might ask what a watch has to do with firearms, outdoors, or anything else we review? To start with, who doesn’t need to tell time? How are you supposed to know what time to meet up for the boogaloo, when to testify on the gun control hearing at the capitol, or more importantly, when to be home from the range for dinner. Either way, having a tacticool watch that winds itself should be reason enough. But mainly, if you are into the stuff we do here, there is a good chance that you are into quality watches also. After all, it is another piece of gear that helps you in your day to day life.

  The Traser P99 looks exactly like you would expect from a tactical watch. It has an outside bezel with corresponding 5 minute marks laid out around it. So every 5, 10, 15 minutes and so on. Inside the bezel it also has these same minute marks in a smaller font size. On the watch face, it has tritium vials at every hour mark. With the 12 o’clock mark being orange in color instead of green like all the others. Of course there are white minute marks going around the dial as well. Inside those are numbers 13-24, so if you use military time, Traser has you covered for that too. In the 6 - 9 o’clock space is also a date reading. This “date” shows a bunch of the day's numbers, but has a red chevron (arrow) pointing to the today date. The hour and minute hands are painted red but also have a green tritium insert in them to see them in darkness. The second hand has a little orange tritium insert in it. Besides just tritium inserts, the P99 also uses Super LumiNova luminescence, or glow in the dark. For the luminescence glow, there is a complete circle around the watch face along with the 15, 30 , and 45 minutes marks on the bezel. Covering all that is an anti-glare sapphire crystal. The P99 watch face is nicely designed and easy to read, day or night.

  Traser’s first watch was made in 1989. This watch was made for the US Army and was the first ever tritium watch. The first watch was made possible because of a company called Trigalight. They were the first to mainstream the manufacturing process of tritium into little vials, down to 0.3mm in size. These vials can be installed into anything that you want to glow. Trigalight probably produces tritium vials for most, if not all the manufacturers in the firearm space. Trigalight and Traser are sister companies under the MB Microtec umbrella, which helps explain the P99 watch from Traser.

Luminescent glow and tritium

Tritium only

  For the P99 A, Traser uses a Swiss automatic movement. The “A” after the P99 stands for “automatic”, if you have not picked up on that yet. The automatic movement winds the watch from movement in your wrist. So unlike solar watches, you don’t need light for it to keep time. It does have a power reserve of about 2 days, but also can be manually wound using the crown. I only wear a watch during the day and take it off at night. I have not had to ever wind the watch manually. One flaw with automatic winding watches is that they have a specification for how accurately they keep time. The Traser P99’s spec is plus or minus 30 seconds a day, with the best automatic watches being plus or minus 15 seconds a day. The P99’s movement is fully mechanical, so no batteries are ever needed.

  Surrounding the automatic movement is a carbon fiber reinforced polymer. This case also has a steel container to house the automatic movement of the watch. This carbon polymer case is what gives the watch its looks. It also has flake style carbon on the watch face itself. I am pretty hard on watches and I have not even marred the P99’s case. Hooked to the case is a choice of 3 different watch straps. You can either get a fabric NATO strap in grey camo or black, with the other option being a rubber strap. I opted for the camo NATO strap and couldn’t be happier. 

  The Traser P99 A has a few other features. The mechanical movement can be seen from the back of the watch, through a large clear window. All this really does is make it look cool and I am okay with that. The P99 A also has a water resistance rating of 20 ATM which is the equivalent of 200 meters under water. Helping to make this water resistance specification is a “screw down crown”. What is a “crown”? Well, the crown is the part of the watch that winds it, or adjusts the date and time. On the P99, to adjust the date or time, you must first unscrew the crown, which is the little dial thing on the side of the watch. Then just pull it out to the correct step and adjust what is needed. Push it back in, screw the crown down, and you will be back to getting wet and telling time, in no time.

  The bezel, or the outer ring of the watch face, on the P99 rotates. It rotates with a click for every minute. Why you might ask? It is so you can spin it to match up with the minute hand. Then you will be able to tell the elapsed time. So say you wanted to train pistol draw strokes for 20 minutes. Just turn the dial to the current minute hands position, then when the minute hand gets to the 20 on the bezel number, you know you have done 20 minutes worth. It is pretty easy and useful for certain things.

  I have worn the Traser P99 A for months now. It is not a small watch by any means, but it isn’t huge either. I like the size. There are a few aspects of the P99 that I do not care for, but they are minor. One is that this particular watch gains about 2-2.5 minutes a week. It is within the Swiss movement's specifications. I just turn it back 5 minutes every two weeks. Since it gains time, you will always be early for dinner. My only other complaint is that the bezel needs a stronger spring, or whatever is used in it for the detent positions. It moves sometimes. Like I mentioned, I am pretty hard on watches because I work with my hands, so the bezel is getting bumped and moved. On a positive note, I have yet to have scratched the crystal or marred up the watch case. A true testament on how rugged this watch actually is. I shoot with the watch on also. I have destroyed other watches while doing this, both analog and digital. The P99 has withstood everything I threw at it. The tritium in the watch is super bright. I really enjoy being able to tell time in dimly lit rooms easily because of this. The Traser P99 A Tactical has been a great watch

  If you happen to be looking for a “tactical” style watch that never needs batteries, the Traser P99 A might be for you. Its auto winding Swiss movement is nice. The tritium inserts are what really make this watch shine. They are super bright and placed just about everywhere on the watch. This watch is also almost indestructible. Maybe the most important aspect is that the Traser P99 A Tactical Carbon looks great. Go check it out, along with the other Traser products at www.traser.com. 

Firearms Insider Reviews - Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Tritium watch with automatic winding Swiss movement 

Target Market:

Anyone wanting an analog tactical watch that never needs winding

Features, Benefits, and Specifications of this product:

  • Trigalight self-luminous technology on the dial, hands and underneath the Traser logo

  • Luminescent glass seal

  • Trigalight cross insert in bezel, Super-LumiNova (SLN) marking on bezel

  • Luminescent ring on crown

  • Movement: Swiss made automatic

  • Size: Ø 46mm

  • Glass: Anti-reflective sapphire

  • Carbon fiber-reinforced polymer double case with internal steel container

  • Screwed-down crown

  • Transparent case back

  • Carbon fiber back face

  • Date window at 7.5 o’clock

  • Strap: Textile NATO strap and rubber strap

  • Water resistance: 20 atm / 20 bar

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

Non Automatic, Different bands

What others are saying?:

Nothing found as of publishing

Link to other reviews:

A Blog to WATCH   

Price point:

MSRP = $1165.00

Retail = Same

I need it now! Availability:

Traser USA is your best bet

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Tritium is bright! 

  • Luminescent dial

  • Carbon fiber case construction 

  • Automatic movement 

  • Water resistance 

Cons:

  • Gains time, so time needs reset every couple of weeks 

  • Bezel doesn’t stay in one place

  • Price

Score: 8.50 Great 

, ,

Triclops Sights

, ,

Triclops Sight Review

  I have a serious astigmatism and normal red dot sights are an issue for me. During one of our podcast episodes we discussed products from Triclops Sights. They manufacture, what can be best described as, an analog red dot. These are iron sights that contain fiber optics.

  The front sight is tall, like a suppressor height sight. The rear sight is a rectangle that has red fiber optics at the 12, 3 and 9 o'clock positions. 

  The sights are firearm model, caliber, and eye dominant specific. They have sights for the Beretta APX, Desert Eagle in 41 Mag, VP9, Smith & Wesson M&P line, CZ75 and many more. The pulldown menu is on their website. 

  I have a Glock 19. I'm right handed and right eye dominant. I received my sights in November 2023 and had them installed immediately. My friend Nick had a sight pusher. He got these sights installed quickly for me. All that was left for me to do was install the fiber optics by sliding them into place, cutting them to size, and burning the tip to keep them in place. It was quick and easy.

  The Triclops sights work due to your eye naturally centering the green front sight between the red rear fiber optic posts. I'll take a quote from Triclops Sights website, “Geometric centering is your eye's natural ability to find the exact center of a shape. This concept incorporated in the Triclops Sight allows you to aim and acquire your target faster than traditional notch and blade sights.” This new sight picture may take effort for some to run. It is simple if you don't overthink the sight picture. It is the same principle as centering your AR15 front sight post in the center of your rear sight aperture. 

  According to the company website, the Triclops sights help you fire with both eyes open. They help you shoot more accurately, faster, and assist in increasing your situational awareness when you're shooting.

  I planned on using these sights during different types of shooting and in various conditions. I used them at indoor matches, action shooting matches, Police Combat Competition, and training classes around the country. I fired the Triclops sights under the pressure of timed competition. I feel they were faster when shooting and transitioning from target to target than regular bladed sights. Close targets got smoked quickly!  The second I saw the green front sight anywhere on the target, I squeezed the trigger. When I moved back to the 25-yard line, it was easy to stay in the center of a B27 target or IDPA targets.

  I took the Dynamic Rifle 2 class with ROC Training at the South Jersey Shooting Club on a sunny October day. While running drills, we would transition to our handgun when our carbines ran empty. These sights really popped outside. Shooting and moving, firing weak hand, and from cover I was hitting the targets effortlessly.  During one training iteration at 50 yards, these sights easily equaled, or beat, other students that had more expensive pistols equipped with red dots. Sucseffully hitting a full size IDPA steel target five times in a row.

  My reviews generally are long term reviews. I've been using Triclops Sights for 15 months. They have been used and abused in training class, competitions, and practice. They are carried as my everyday carry in the Fattac Standard Holster. It also works in the JX Tactical Fat Guy Holsters and the Hailey Strategic G-Code Incog RMR tuckable holster. These holsters all have been designed for a red dot mounted Glock 19.

  I read concerns that the Triclops sight looked large. I saw comments that it looked as large as some red dots. I had the Vortex Defender CCW Micro Dot on hand. It has the Shield RMSc footprint. At 1.6 inches long theDefender CCW is considered a small red dot. It looks huge next to the Triclops Sight.

 The Triclops Sights have held up to my use, which is to put it mildly, rough. I have not broken the fiber optics. There is a small bit of surface rust on the side of the sight that lays against me while I carry. 

  Triclops Sights are what the website says and more. I believe these sights are in a category between traditional sights and red dots. Especially if you have astigmatism like mine. Which nearly every red dot looks like a rorschach test.

  These sights allow me to see faster, and shoot accurately faster, than regular bladed sights. My scores and times in competition reflect these facts. They cost less than all but the lowest priced red dots. They don't require batteries. They are tough. These sights have been used to rack the slide during one hand manipulation drills. There's been no damage or loss of zero. I recommend these Triclops sights to anyone that has astigmatism or just wants to try an “analog red dot” sight. 

Firearms Insider Reviews - Key Points

Claim to Fame:

This product is great for people with bad astigmatism. It's also a good alternative to suppressor height sights. It's a step between traditional sights and a red dot optic. 

Target Market:

It is faster than iron sights with much less of a learning curve than red dots. It has a smaller footprint than every red dot on the market with fast sight acquisition. Triclops Sights are less expensive than every quality red dot on the market. 

Features, Benefits, and Specifications of this product 

  • Triclops Sights are for people who have problems seeing traditional sights 

  • They are an analog red dot for people that have issues with astigmatism 

  • They help shooters shoot accurately faster due to a larger sight picture and faster sight alignment 

  • Constructed from 4140 steel. 

  • Red and green fiber optic rods are included

  • Available for a bunch of different handguns

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

Much like Henry Ford's Model T, You can have it in any color. As long as that color is black. 

What others are saying?:

"I want to thank Sean at TriclopsSights.com for hooking me up with this sight system to test and evaluate. Pretty much an analog CCO and NVD capable. First 15 rounds with the sight were at 7 meters doing first round draw drills. First two were flyers b/c I wasn't using the sight correctly. I was skeptical at first but now all I can say is wow. Put the threat in the TV screen and squeeze.” - Colton Baitch

I took my small little sub compact to the range with my new Triclops sights. Started close around 7yds to get a feel for the sight. It happened quickly, around 5 shots before I was in a small ring. This was amazing as it is but what really surprised me was being able to shoot quite a long distance somewhere around 25 yards with my small little carry gun and be extremely accurate. I was also happy with how quickly I could now shoot my carry gun. I plan on trying these sights on one of my larger full size competition guns and can’t wait to see the results. So more to report later- Hope Lewellen

Link to other reviews:

Triclops Sights Review: New Sights for Old Glock

Price point:

MSRP = $119.99

Retail = Same

I need it now! Availability:

Triclops Sights

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • High-quality iron sights 

  • The sights are faster to acquire than traditional sights at close range 

  • The sights are faster and easier to shoot at long range than traditional notch and blade sights 

  • They are tough. I haven't been able to break them

  • They have no batteries

  • They double as suppressor height sights 

  • Fiber optics are inexpensive and easy to replace 

  • They are easier and faster to learn and acquire a sight picture to those untrained in the use of a red dot 

  • They are easier to conceal and are less likely to snag clothing because they have a smaller footprint than every red dot on the market 

Cons:

  • It looks unusual. Instructors and friends all have, initially, look at this with suspicion. 

  • It has a slight learning curve. It took a few range trips to understand how to get the most out of the product 

  • If you don't have one of the firearms models listed on their website you'll have to call the company to inquire if the sight will work on your firearm 

Score: 9.25 - Amazing

I think it's a sighting system between traditional sights and red dot optics.

, ,

Walker Defense Dark Matter BCG

, ,

Walker Defense Dark Matter

High-Polish DLC BCG Review

  The heart of an AR15 is the Bolt Carrier Group or BCG. A quality BCG can make your rifle perform like a champion. A mil-spec BCG might work, but will not perform as well, especially if you are trying to get the best performance out of it. Walker Defense Research has released their Dark Matter Bolt Carrier Group. This highly polished, fitted, and DLC coated BCG is of the utmost quality.

  When looking for a Bolt Carrier Group, either to replace one or for a new build, there are things to consider. Do you want cheap, or are you looking for top quality that will last forever? The Walker Defense Dark Matter BCG is in the top quality group. To start with, it is a M16 style full auto carrier. So if you are fortunate to have a full auto M16, M4, etc, it will work with that. More important is the fact that the M16 carrier has the full mass, which allows it to run more smoothly, at least in my opinion. This Dark Matter carrier is also made from 8620 tool steel for a lifetime of use. 

  The Dark Matter BCG has a bunch of hi-end specifications. Some of these I will describe more in depth later. This BCG is for standard calibers and for use in direct impingement guns. These include 5.56/.223/300 blk, etc. It weighs 11-⅝ ounces and is made to true mil-spec dimensions. On the front end it has a C158 bolt that is magnetic particle inspected and high pressure tested. The 4130 gas key is properly staked using Optimized Carrier Key Screws (OCKS). These screws are deeply knurled to allow the staking to dig in, making them almost impossible to come loose. Lastly, the Dark matter BCG is DLC coated.

  Walker Defense is all about small batch quality. Here is what they have to say about the Dark Matter BCG: “We’ve always leaned into our advantage as a company specializing in small-batch production, but we’re taking it further. Those extra touches of quality add up and give us the ability to do things that larger companies just can’t. A few quick tangible examples of this:

Each carrier is matched by hand to each bolt and cam pin to prevent tolerance stacking and to ensure ideal, consistent fitment as the bolt cams back and forth.

We also pair each bolt with its firing pin to confirm adequate protrusion for reliable primer ignition.

Using OCKS screws for ultra-aggressive staking of the gas key, so it won’t loosen at high round counts”

Those are just a few things Walker Defense does to give you the best BCG around.

  DLC, or Diamond-Like Carbon coatings have been around for a while, but the Dark Matter BCG takes it to a new level. DLC coatings by themselves are extremely hard, corrosion and wear-resistant, and very slick, which gives them low coefficients of friction and superior dry lubricity. Walker Defense takes this up a notch by aggressively polishing the bare metal, before it is coated. As with most machined parts, a BCG is only as good as its base metal. This polishing is a very labor intensive process which makes the Dark Matter BCG super slick and mirror-like shiny. Then after a high quality dark black DLC coating is applied, they polish the DLC coated BCG again. This makes the BCG even more slick (and also hard to take pictures of because of the mirror finish it produces). By polishing the BCG before and after coating, you get an extremely smooth surface that carbon has a hard time sticking to. Cleanup on the Dark matter BCG is super easy. One can literally just wipe it off with a rag. Carbon just doesn’t stick to this BCG.

  I am using the Dark Matter BCG in a 300 blackout AR pistol. This pistol ran suppressed for around 60% of the review. Why does this matter? Because the pistol gets a lot dirtier. The upper on this pistol is nothing special, just your off the shelf AR upper receiver. Before installing the Dark Matter BCG, I was running a Mil-Spec BCG. After I installed the Dark Matter BCG I could tell a smoothness difference. Not just in how the gun cycles under use, but also when hand cycling the action. The AR pistol is just way more pleasant to shoot now. Another thing I noticed was that the brass ejection was more consistent than with the mil-spec BCG. I attribute this to the action cycling smoother. After around 800 rounds, I can’t even really notice any wear on the Dark Matter BCG, a testament to that fantastic polished DLC coating. 

  The Walker Defense Dark Matter BCG is slick, pun intended. This BCG is of the utmost quality. It has all the standard features you would want in a high quality BCG: MPI and HPT tested, DLC coated, quality base metals, and true mil-spec dimensions. That does not even count the “extras” Walker Defense puts into these. One would be hard pressed to find a better, or smoother BCG. The price on these is very reasonable for what you get, definitely a high value to price ratio. If you are looking for the slickest, highest quality BCG around, definitely go look at the Dark Matter High Polished BCG from Walker Defense. These are literally super slick.

Firearms Insider Reviews - Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Super slick, high quality bolt carrier group that is easy to clean

Target Market:

Those wanting a superior BCG

Features, Benefits, and Specifications of this product:

  • Coating: Highly-Polished DLC

  • Compatibility: M16/ M4 / AR-15 Using Direct Gas Impingement (not for use in piston guns)

  • Calibers: 5.56x45mm NATO / .223 Remington / .300 AAC Blackout

  • Profile: Full Auto Style Carrier w/ Properly Staked Gas Key

  • Bolt: C158

  • Carrier: 8620 Tool Steel

  • Total Weight: 11 5/8 OZ.

  • True Mil-Spec dimensions

  • 4130 steel gas key

  • Staked with OCKS Screws

  • 4140 steel extractor and cam pin

  • Hard chrome ground 8740 steel firing pin

  • Magnetic particle inspected

  • High Pressure Tested (HPT)

  • Made in the USA

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

Nickel Boron, Titanium, & Flat Dark Earth DLC

What others are saying?:

Couldn’t find anything as of publishing

Link to other reviews:

VSO Gun Channel on YouTube   

Price point:

MSRP = $269.99

Retail = $229.49 with discount code “Insider15”

I need it now! Availability:

Walker Defense or Optics Planet

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Super Slick mirror finish

  • Easy to clean

  • Deep black DLC coating

  • Properly staked OKCS screws

  • Polished before and after coating

  • M16 profile

Cons:

  • May not always be in stock

Score: 9.00 Amazing

,

Tactical Kinetics 300 blackout Barrel

,

Tactical Kinetics 300 blackout

Barrel Review

  Have you ever had something so long that you end up going down a deep hole of what you want to do with it? Well I did with this barrel. I had it on the shelf, looked at it, and wanted to do so many things with it that it soon became a thorn in my side. Now this thorn is me, not the barrel. The Tactical Kinetics 300 blackout barrel is fantastic. It is well machined and looks better than some of the big name rifle makers barrels. Tactical Kinetics sent me this barrel for review almost a year ago. No excuses but life happened and that's why it has taken so long to do this review.

  I mounted the barrel in a no name, unbranded, upper and put it on a PSA lower that has a Sylvan folding adapter. Fitment of the Tactical Kinetics barrel was plain and simple: great machining, the coating in the barrel looked good, and the threads for the barrel nut were properly machined. I ended up taking it apart three times, changing out gas tubes, gas block, and finally going with an adjustable gas block from Velocity Precision. 

  After completing the first build, it ate everything I fed into it when I was firing for reliability. Except for the subsonic 220 grain ammo I had for testing. I knew this was either a gas issue or a buffer weight issue. So back to the drawing board. Build two was now completed and the Tactical Kinetics barrelled upper was placed on a SBR lower. In a bout of frustration, it still would not run my subsonic ammo. So for the third and final time, I reassembled all the same parts. The rifle worked with all my ammo now. What a relief. Then I realized everything I had done, when I put all the parts together, was my fault. We won't go into that now.

  At the range, I took the little 8.5” barrel out and sighted it in at 25 yards. It fired all different weights of ammo. The barrel grouped best with 204 grain subsonics with a suppressor attached to it. I only had a red dot on top and was shooting from a rolled up jacket. Then I went to dumping magazine after magazine through it to see what it would do when it was hot. Well there was not a lot of shift in impact, maybe 1” and that was probably me. The accuracy was far better than a Bear Creek upper that I have with the same length barrel. Groups off the rolled up jacket were about 2.5 inches. For me and my intended use of this rifle, I thought it was great. 

  This is my first barrel review and it has been hard to do. What I can say about the Tactical Kinetics barrel is that the machining is quality, the rifling was good, and it grouped well. I know comparing it to a BCA upper is not fair, but that is all I had. 

  Would I recommend this company to buy from? Damn skippy I do. I already have a wish list going for a few 6.5 Grendel barrels they offer. Tactical Kinetics is one of the company’s you want to do business with. Quality parts, great customer service, and patience for not sending headhunters out for the review. 

Firearms Insider Reviews - Key Points

Claim to Fame:

The Tactical Kinetics 300 Blackout Barrel is recognized for its accuracy, reliability, and is compatible with various 300 Blackout rifle builds.

Target Market:

This barrel is ideal for shooters looking to upgrade or build a 300 Blackout AR platform. It’s particularly well-suited for home defense, tactical shooting, and hunting enthusiasts who value subsonic and supersonic versatility.

Features, Benefits, and Specifications of this product:

  • Material: Made from 4150 CMV steel

  • Medium profile

  • 0.750 Gas journal

  • Twist Rate: 1:8 twist rate, optimized for stabilizing both supersonic and subsonic loads.

  • Length: 85” also available in 5”, 7.5”, 10.5”, and 16” length

  • Gas System: Pistol-length gas system

  • Finish: Nitride coated

  • Threading: 5/8x24

  • Chambering: 300 Blackout

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

Different barrel length and twist rates are available

What others are saying?:

Nothing found as of publishing

Link to other reviews:

Nothing worthwhile found as of publishing

Price point:

MSRP = $110.00

Retail = Depends on barrel length

I need it now! Availability:

Tactical Kinetics

Our Rating: 

Pros:

  • Reliable cycling with subsonic loads.

  • Durable nitride finish.

  • Accurate 1:8 twist rate.

  • Good price point for quality.

Cons:

  • Limited to one finish option.

  • May require fine-tuning with certain subsonic ammo and gas blocks.





Score: 8.50  Great

,

Primary Arms SLx 1-10x28 ACSS NOVA

,

Primary Arms

SLx 1-10x28 ACSS NOVA Review

  A few years ago, Primary Arms started making their NOVA fiber dot reticle. This bridged the gap between the Low Power Variable Optic (LPVO) and the red dot. Primary Arms has recently put the NOVA reticle into their SLx 1-10x28 optic. This is huge for those wanting more magnification over the SLx 1-6x24 NOVA. 

  The Primary Arms SLx 1-10x28 NOVA is packed with features. For starters, they increased the tube to 34mm from 30mm’s in the 1-6. This allows more light to get into the optic and back to your eye. This larger tube lets you see better at lower light levels as well as at the full 10x magnification. They also throw in flip up lens caps to keep the glass clean when not in use.

  Next on the feature list is the capped turrets. The turrets are a vital part in setting up your optic. Or at least getting it sighted in. I am not super thrilled with the turrets that Primary Arms uses on this LPVO. The clicks are fine and can be felt easily. My gripe is that they remind me of something that was used on scopes 20 years ago. They are small plastic knobs with a flat piece of metal that rotates to set your zero position. Then there is a tiny recess, in the threads, to line up your “zero” with. I was just hoping for something more like the SLx 1-6x24 NOVA. The caps that cover the turrets are nice. They have good texture to unscrew them. The windage knob cap also has storage for an extra 2032 battery. Yes, it comes with an extra battery already in the cap. On the left side of the LPVO is the brightness knob. It has 11 brightness settings from low light to burn your eyeballs out bright. However, it is not night vision compatible. The SLx 1-10 does not have Primary Arms’ Autolive. However, I did install their Autolive battery cap and it works like a charm.

  Eye relief for the SLx 1-10 LPVO is pretty good. Primary Arms states 3.2 - 3.5 inches, which seems about right. I did notice that the eyebox is pretty forgiving. I did not need to be exactly in the stated window to see through the optic clearly. The SLx also has a fast focus diopter so you can adjust the reticle to be crystal clear. Also, on this end of the optic is the magnification throw lever. Of course it goes from a true 1x all the way to 10x. The magnification adjustment is very smooth and rotates right at 180 degrees from 1x - 10x. Primary Arms also uses their removable throw lever. This one is about ¾ inch long. You can get different height ones from Primary Arms, as well as a fold down lever. 

  Now it is reticle time. The SLx 1-10x28 uses Primary Arms ACSS NOVA fiber wire reticle. This gives you a daylight bright red dot in the center of the reticle’s crosshairs. Basically a red LED travels through a fiber optic cable to the reticle, thus illuminating the reticle dot much brighter than a normal illuminated reticle. The center dot is roughly 0.6 MOA. Some people say the dot is too small to use it like a red dot. I am not one of those people, I love the Nova red dot. The rest of the ACSS NOVA reticle is a Mil based Second Focal Plane optic. So the reticle stays the same size throughout the magnification range. This also makes the Mil subtensions only accurate at the highest power, or 10x in this case. For elevation, there are 4 mil stadia lines below the center red dot. They are spaced 1 Mil apart, with ½ mil dots between them. These Mil stadia are wider at the top and progressively get narrower as you go down the reticle. This is so you can use them to range distance on an 18 inch wide target. On the horizontal stadia, there are 2 dots. These 2 dots represent approximately 3 mile per hour wind holds each. The crosshair taper can be used as a 3rd wind hold. The reticle is very useful for all kinds of things. I am a huge fan of the ACSS NOVA Mil reticle.

  When I first received the SLx 1-10x28, I had not received the rifle I was hoping to put it on. Since I had a “Range Day” competition coming up, I mounted it to my Primary Weapons piston AR15. Primary Arms had also sent their GLx 34 mm cantilever mount to use with the 1-10. It is a great mount by itself and puts the optic at just the right height for an AR. During the competition, I was able to use it like a red dot at 3-7 yard targets. Then I moved it up to about 3x to shoot some index cards at 50 yards. The optic performed great for that particular competition. And no, I didn’t win anything. The SLx 1-10 Nova now sits on a Global Ordnance Monolith, which was the rifle I was waiting to install it on. The 1-10 fits the rifle well and doesn’t add too much weight to it. After all, the SLx 1-10x28 Nova only weighs 19 ounces. I have also done a bunch of drills with the SLx on this rifle. The SLx worked great on it also. When I was shooting for groups, I had the SLx’s magnification turned up to 10x. On 10x the targets were easy to make out. The only problem I ran across was that at 10x, the scope is not as clear as at 1x. There was not a bunch of difference, but enough that I could notice. Even though it was noticeable to me, I could still make out 22 caliber holes at 100 yards easily enough. 

  I am a huge fan of the ACSS NOVA reticle in the SLx 1-10x28. Not only can you use this LPVO as a normal optic, it also can double as a red dot. You can even range targets with the Mil reticle. Pair it with the Primary Arms Autolive battery cap and you have an optic that is ready to go when you are. So if you are looking for that LPVO that has a little bit more magnification,  but still can be used fast and up close, give the Primary Arms SLx 1-10x28 ACSS NOVA a look.

Firearms Insider Reviews - Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Quality , inexpensive 1-10x optic with good features

Target Market:

Anyone wanting a quality LPVO at a fair price

Features, Benefits, and Specifications of this product:

  • Battery Type: CR2032 3V Lithium Coin

  • Click Value: 1/2 MOA

  • Exit Pupil Diameter: Low: 9mm / High: 2.8mm

  • Field View 100: Low: 110 ft / High: 10 ft

  • Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane

  • Illuminated MRAD NOVA fiber reticle, red color

  • Eye Relief: 3.2” - 3.5”

  • Length: 10.5 in.

  • Magnification: 1X - 10X

  • 34mm tube

  • Objective Diameter: 28mm

  • Total Elevation and Windage Adjustment: 40 MOA

  • Low Profile Capped Turrets

  • Warranty: Lifetime

  • Weight: 19.1 oz.

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

ACSS Raptor and ACSS Griffin reticles

What others are saying?:

5 out of 5 stars at PrimaryArms.com

Coyote Hunting 25-200 Yards

by Coyote Cam - 

  So, as we all know... the SLx 1-6x24 Nova has been the standard for the red dot bright LPVO with the Gen4. When I saw that they now make the exact same Nova illumination in the 1-10x28, it was time to pull the trigger on a 1-10x LPVO, but with any 1-10x I was a bit hesitant at first... but let me tell you, I am amazed at how clear this is out to 200 yards on 10x.

  Now... understand that this is for my dedicated Coyote setup out to 200 yards max, but also I have a heavy brush/timber area that I need to dial it back on and this 1x is running amazing.

  The red dot illumination helps when the reticle fades in the sun/tree line, which is why I wanted the Nova, but I needed more than 6x for target identification in dim light.

  If you are wanting something for the same reasons as I did, do not hesitate, the glass is actually super clear.

Link to other reviews:

Lynx Defense

Price point:

MSRP = $449.99

Retail = Same, but Primary Arms runs sales that take it below $400

I need it now! Availability:

Primary Arms, Amazon, or your local dealer

Our Rating: 

Pros:

  • Red Dot NOVA reticle

  • Mil lines for ranging

  • Lightweight for size

  • Battery storage in windage knob cover

  • Capped turrets

  • Decent throw lever

Cons:

  • Old school turrets with no real zero setting

  • Little fuzzy around the edges at 10x

Score: 8.00 Great

,

True Blue Suppressor Cleaner & Syrup

,

True Blue Cleaner Concentrate

and Suppressor Syrup Review

  I recently received some, new to me, True Blue Gun Lube products. Those products are True Blue’s Gun Cleaner Concentrate and Suppressor Syrup. I previously reviewed their Gun Oil and it performed great, so I was excited to see how this stuff performed.

  Both of these products are purposely built for suppressor cleaning. The Cleaner Concentrate and the Suppressor Syrup can also be used on regular firearms for cleaning and preventative maintenance.

  Let us start with the Cleaner Concentrate. As advertised, this is a water soluble cleaner and degreaser for firearms and suppressors. This is not one of those harsh chemical cleaners. Therefore it takes time to break down carbon fouling. True Blue says to soak the heavy carbonated parts for 2-3 hours to start, and increase soaking time if needed to break up the carbon fouling. 

  I used the Cleaner Concentrate on 2 different suppressors. One was sealed, and the other has removable parts. For the sealed suppressor, plug one end and fill it up with Cleaner Concentrate. True Blue states you can use it undiluted or diluted in a 5:1 ratio for best results. Since I was cleaning two suppressors, I diluted it to 5:1. I let both suppressors sit for around 3 hours. The carbon did not want to come off of the baffles on the one with removable parts. So I let both soak for another 12 hours. After sitting, the carbon gummed up and came off pretty easy with a wire brush. But it did not get all the carbon. So I proceeded to pour the mixture in my ultrasonic cleaner. I dumped all the parts in and turned it on for 30 minutes with heat. That took the rest of the carbon off of the baffles. My suggestion would be to use the Cleaner Concentrate in an ultrasonic cleaner for best results. However, I think soaking it for a full 24 hours would have done the same thing. For the sealed suppressor, I then just blew air through it to dry it out. From what I could see, it looked cleaner.

Dirty suppressor internals. Previously coated in Suppressor Syrup

  Now that we have the suppressors clean, it is time to use the Suppressor Syrup. The Suppressor Syrup is a thick, kind of sticky oil. Imagine that, they call it syrup for a reason. The Suppressor Syrup is meant to prevent carbon from sticking to metal parts. That means you can use it on adjustable gas blocks, choke tubes, muzzle brakes, suppressor threads, suppressor adapters, or anything else that might get carboned up. The one drawback to the Suppressor Syrup is that it has to be reapplied. When? Basically any time you do maintenance. So it really is not a big deal.

  The Suppressor Syrup worked well for me. After cleaning the suppressors, I followed the directions for application. On the sealed suppressor, I put 10 drops into the connection end of the can. One went on the threads since it is a screw on suppressor. Then I shot a couple rounds through it and looked for the end to be wet. It was, so I knew that enough had been applied. On the suppressor that can be taken apart, I put a thin layer on each baffle and reassembled it. Then off to the range I went. 

Same internals after 30 minute ultrasonic cleaner bath using Cleaner Concentrate. Wiped with rag

  Since I am not the sharpest tool, I didn't get any pictures of how dirty the baffles really were before I started this process. I proceeded to disassemble the suppressor again to take some pictures. It was not as dirty as before, but it also didn't have as many rounds through it. Or was it because of the Suppressor Syrup? Either way, I threw the baffles in the sonic cleaner for 30 minutes and then wiped them off. You can see a difference in the pictures. I do think the Suppressor Syrup made a difference in how easily the carbon came off. 

  The True Blue Cleaner and Syrup are a good option to help keep those suppressors clean. Especially if you want something safe. The Concentrate Cleaner also works on just about every aspect of a firearm. As for the Suppressor Syrup, it makes cleaning easier by helping to prevent carbon from sticking. Go check out True Blue Gun products and see if they have something that might help you. 

Firearms Insider Reviews - Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Easy to use suppressor cleaner and preventative 

Target Market:

Anyone who hates to clean suppressors

Features, Benefits, and Specifications of this product:

Cleaner:

  • Breaks down and removes carbon build up

  • Water Soluble

  • Safe on metals, plastics, neoprene, coatings used for firearms, suppressors, and knives

  • Ammonia free

  • Cleaner and Degreaser

Syrup:

  • Reduces carbon bonding

  • Eliminates Carbon Locking

  • Works on: 

    • Suppressor Internals

    • Compensators/Muzzle devices

    • Suppressor Barrel Mount

    • Modular Suppressor Threads

    • Shotgun Choke Tube

    • Threads

    • Adjustable gas blocks

    • Flashlight Lens

    • Any high carbon area

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

None

What others are saying?:

Syrup:

Karl S. - Palmetto State Armory, from Truebluegunlube.com  

What we found in our testing was that applying the Suppressor Syrup to the screw of an adjustable gas block allowed us to keep the adjustment screw usable over the life of our testing. Without the Suppressor Syrup this screw tends to become carbon locked within about 300 rounds and we are sometimes not able to free it.

Cleaner:

Luke H. - Integrity Elite Firearms, from Truebluegunlube.com   

We soaked a suppressor in the Cleaner Concentrate for several hours and successfully salvaged this one that was heavily saturated with carbon to the point where it resembled a barrel extension. This stuff works wonders.

Link to other reviews:

Kids Safe Foundation 

Syrup review   

Cleaner review 

Price point:

MSRP:

Syrup = $18.99 - $26.99    

Cleaner = $24.99 - $99.99   

Retail = Same

I need it now! Availability:

My Life @ Speed or your local gun shop

Our Rating:

Pros:

Cleaner:

  • Water Soluble

  • Safe for just about anything

Syrup:

  • Reduces Carbon build up

  • Makes Cleaning easier

  • Easy application

Cons:

Cleaner:

  • Not very aggressive at getting carbon off

  • Have to let sit for a bit

Syrup:

  • Must reapply periodically

Score: 

6.50 - Okay for the cleaner

8.00 - Great for the syrup

Favorite Link:  True Blue Gun Oil Review

,

Sharps Bros Livewire

,

Sharps Bros Livewire AR-15 lower receiver review

Written by: Buddy Murphy

  This is a review of the Sharps Bros Livewire AR-15 lower receiver. Yes, these are the same guys that make lowers with skulls, warrior helmets, or other goofy things on their magazine wells. But when they get serious, they make a quality, functional piece of kit.

  One of the first things you'll notice is the heavily flared mag well, which not only looks great but also makes reloads faster and more intuitive. The ambidextrous bolt release is another welcome feature, providing ease of use for both right and left-handed shooters. This particular design for a right side bolt release has the perfect amount of force needed to release the bolt. Some other receivers take too much effort to release the bolt, forcing you to move your hand off of the fire controls, like the PWS Alpha.

  The right side bolt release is especially useful for me (right-handed shooter) when shooting CMP (Civilian Marksmanship Program) courses of fire. The first and last stages are single load stages. Meaning, you have an empty magazine in your rifle (or a specialty mag), you drop a round into the ejection port, close the bolt, and fire your one round. You repeat that 10 or 20 times depending on the stage. This forces you to break position between each shot. By having the bolt release on the right side, I can hold my rifle against my shoulder with my left hand, and get another round, drop it in the rifle, grip the rifle with my right hand, and close the bolt, minimizing my movement between shots.

  The transition between the integrated, oversized trigger guard and the magazine well is stepped, giving it a distinct and clean look. The threaded bolt catch pin and rear takedown pin recess also add to its overall precision and durability.

  As of July 2021, Livewire has undergone a significant upgrade, it is now made from a forging. The process begins with a 7075 aluminum billet, which is heated to 800 degrees and then forged into a near-final shape using a custom tool in an impressive 4100-ton press.

  Post-forging, the receiver undergoes final machining on CNC machines. This reduces material costs and machine time without compromising quality. The result is a receiver that feels incredibly robust and well-finished, with every detail meticulously crafted. The anodized black finish, done to MIL-A-8625 standards, ensures durability and a sleek professional look.

  Putting the lower parts in the receiver was a standard affair except for the left side bolt catch. Instead of a roll pin holding the bolt catch to the receiver, it has a small hex-head screw. This makes it much easier to attach the bolt catch than tapping in a roll pin. Also, before you attach the bolt catch, you must insert the included transfer bar. The transfer bar allows the bolt release, on the right side, to push the bottom of the bolt catch toggle (causing the top to move in towards the receiver as if you pushed it), releasing the bolt.

  In summary, the Sharps Bros Livewire AR15 receiver delivers on every front; strength, precision, and aesthetics. It’s a top-tier choice for anyone looking to build or upgrade their AR15 with a receiver that truly sets itself apart from the rest. While it maintains the classic AR15 aesthetic, it brings its own unique flair and functionality to the table: like the oversized integral trigger guard, beveled magazine flare, and ambidextrous bolt release. It is fully compatible with mil-spec parts and magazines. Weighing around 8.7 ounces, it strikes a perfect balance between weight and durability.

Firearms Insider Reviews - Key Points

Claim to Fame:

AR-15 lower receiver with right side bolt release.

Target Market:

Lefties, Competition shooters, those that want ambi-everything

Features, Benefits, and Specifications of this product:

  • Large integrated trigger guard

  • Right side bolt release

  • Flared mag well

  • Forged lower

  • Mil-spec

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

Only black anodized finish

What others are saying?:

5/5 stars from Dave K. at Brownells

Absolutely the best value for the $$$

I am very impressed with this lower receiver. Everything fit perfectly. Best value for the money! All of my future builds I will use this receiver.

Link to other reviews:

The Firearm Blog

Price point:

MSRP = $136.79

Retail = $124.99 at Brownells

I need it now! Availability:

Brownells

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Forged Receiver

  • Flared Magwell

  • Right side bolt release

  • Integrated trigger guard

  • Oversized trigger Guard

  • Mil-spec dimensions

Cons:

  • None

Score: 8.00 Great

, ,

Vosteed Parallel

, ,

Vosteed Parallel Review

  Vosteed has a brand new knife out and it’s called the Parallel. It’s designed to be a very thin and lightweight pocket knife. And let me tell you, they succeeded! So if you are looking for a tough, lightweight and thin knife. The Vosteed Parallel could be the knife for you.

The Handle 

  The Parallel features a non textured titanium handle complete with a lanyard loop. For this knife you can get in 3 different styles. I received the gray handled knife and I was completely blown away by how thin the knife is! Coming in at a thin measurement of 0.28”, I couldn’t even tell it was in my pocket sometimes. There were even a couple of moments when I actually thought I lost it, because I couldn’t feel it in my pocket. And that’s also due to the knife being so lightweight coming in at 2.29oz. When I first opened it, I was a little worried about it not having a textured grip handle. It wasn’t a problem for me at all. I can get a great grip on the knife without it trying to slide around in my hand. Having no gripping also helps make it slide in and out of your pocket very smoothly. But thanks to the very strong pocket clip, that can be swapped to either side of the knife, it stays clipped in your pocket really well. It is probably one of the strongest clips I’ve had on a knife. 

The Blade

  Now here is where it gets really awesome! The Vosteed Parallel has one of my personal favorite blade styles on it, a 2.90” reverse tanto blade. For me personally, I love that style of blade and I feel that it is one of the best for piercing and cutting. On the back side of the blade it has some really great rough jimping. This helps keep control when I’m cutting something up like boxes or plastic straps. I have had knives before with smoother jimping and it definitely takes away some of that control you get. The blade steel is 154CM and because Vosteed designed the knife to be thin, the blade is only 0.08” thick! I was worried about the blade breaking due to it being so thin, but it has proven to be way tougher than I thought. Plus it has stayed sharp for a while now. When the time comes to sharpen it, 154CM sharpens very easily. This blade steel is also highly corrosion resistant so you don’t have to worry about it getting ruined by harsh chemicals.

Opening 

  The Parallel comes equipped with only two styles for opening, that is a thumb stud and pulling back the crossbar lock and flipping it open. I personally like having more ways to open a knife like front and back flippers. Or being able to flip it open using a button lock. And this is one of my complaints with this knife. As you open the blade, the spring loaded lock parts move so that the crossbar lock can engage when the blade is fully open. This causes the blade to not want to smoothly open when you take your thumb off the stud while opening. It can kind of push the blade back towards your fingers. So you have to sort of guide the blade open with your thumb on the thumb stud. Or give it a flick when you start to open it. 

The Lock

  Something that is handy about this knife is you can adjust the stiffness of the crossbar lock and that also makes the blade opening a little bit easier. However, It does not fully fix that stiffness. It definitely helps though. You can do this by essentially taking apart the knife, which is not complicated, and moving both springs (one on each side) to 1 of 3 different pin holes. This can definitely help with making it lighter or stiffer to open. It just depends on how you like your knife to open. When I first opened the knife, the lock was very stiff to pull back when the blade was open. So I did that spring adjustment and that made it a lot easier to open and unlock. This is my first pocket knife with a crossbar lock on it, and I have really come to like it. The lock tabs have great gripping on them, so you can pull them back easily to fold the knife closed. 

Summary

  I have come across so many different pocket knives over time, but I have never come across one so thin and lightweight! I sometimes forget I have it because of how well it fits in my pocket. It has been through quite a bit of cutting and slicing. I work in an industrial environment, and this knife has been doing a fantastic job cutting just about anything I need it to. I do wish that it had more ways to open and not such a stiff lock. But that being said, it is still a great knife! This is my second knife from Vosteed, and both the knives have such great quality and designs. If you are looking for a knife that fits perfectly in your pocket and doesn’t have much weight to it, I highly recommend the Vosteed Parallel. 

Firearms Insider Reviews - Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Super thin and lightweight folder

Target Market:

Those wanting a super thin pocket knife

Features, Benefits, and Specifications of this product:

  • Blade Length: 2.90" | 73.85 mm

  • Overall Length: 7.04" | 178.90 mm

  • Blade Width: 0.96" | 24.50 mm

  • Blade Thickness: 0.079" | 2.00 mm

  • Blade Material: 154CM

  • Blade Grind: Flat

  • Blade Style: Reverse Tanto

  • Blade Finish: Satin

  • Hardness: HRC 60±2

  • Handle Length: 4.13" | 105.00 mm

  • Handle Width: 0.92" | 23.40 mm

  • Handle Thickness: 0.279" | 7.10 mm

  • Handle Material: Titanium

  • Color: Gray

  • Weight: 2.29 oz | 65.00 g

  • Opener: Thumb Stud

  • Lock Type: Crossbar Lock

  • Pivot Assembly: Caged Ceramic Ball Bearing

  • Pocket Clip: Reversible | Stainless Steel

  • Carry Position: Tip-up

  • Knife Type: Manual Folding

  • Backspacer Material: Aluminum

  • Backspacer Color: Green

  • Thumbstud Material: Aluminum

  • Thumbstud Color: Green

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

There are 3 different styles that you can go with:

Black titanium handle with a black SW blade.

Grey titanium handle with satin finish blade.

Black titanium handle with Satin finish blade.

What others are saying?:

Both from Vosteed’s website

“Only one major flaw, otherwise a very nice knife

Deployment is unpredictable for a crossbar lock. There is a place between the closed and open positions where the blade swings free. The lightweight blade often bounces back towards the handle as blade approaches the open/locked position. I can’t be sure blade is locked open without looking at it”


Great knife for the money

Super thin
Feels good in the hand no real hot spots
Super sharp out of the box
Great knife and super nice to carry with how thin it is, feels sturdy for its size. My only complaint is the springs are super stiff and you have to really send it to open and on my office hands it can be a bit uncomfortable to hold the cross bar back to have the blade drop closed. I opened it up, it has adjustable spring tension, three positions and it was in the weakest position. Definitely needs break in but will enjoy flicking it until it does

Link to other reviews 

Melissa Backwoods on YouTube

Price point:

MSRP = $129.00

Retail = Same

I need it now! Availability:

Vosteed, Amazon, or Blade HQ

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Love how thin and lightweight the knife is! It fits in my pocket so great. 

  • It cuts so dang smoothly and has held a sharp edge for a while now.

Cons:

  • I do wish it had more ways to open it than just a thumb stud or using the crossbar lock to flip it open. 

  • I don’t really like how stiff the lock is and that I had to take it apart to adjust that stiffness.

  • Because of the stiff lock, it makes the blade opening not too smooth. You kind of have to guide it out with your thumb otherwise it pushes the blade back towards your fingers.

Score: 6.50 Okay

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