Review

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Civivi Kitefin

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Civivi Kitefin review

When someone asks me what a good knife brand is, I have a few different names that I can give them. But the one that’s always at the top, for a great quality folding EDC knife, is always Civivi. Not only do they produce some of the smoothest knives. But they also know how to make a fancy knife that isn’t going to break your budget. A knife that turns heads for its sleek and decorative look, while also being tough! The Civivi Kitefin is one of these.

Handle

  The Kitefin knife features a brownish grey colored aluminum handle, with a black pocket clip that can be moved to either side of the handle. I really like that the handle is made from aluminum, because it just gives the handle a really solid feeling. As knife handles go, it is pretty smooth with not much texturing, but its shape fits nicely in your hand. Plus, that smooth texture helps it to slide in and out of your pocket easier. That is one aspect about the Kitefin that I do really love. That smoothness does allow you to be able to maneuver it in your hand rather easily. But the downside to it not having much texturing on the handle, is that it can kind of slip around while holding it. Especially if your hands are wet or you’re wearing gloves. 

  Now that being said, it’s still a great knife handle! And the brownish grey color along with the Damascus blade just makes a really eye-catching knife.

Blade

  Now, let’s talk about the blade. The most important part of a pocket knife or any kind of knife for that matter.

 The Kitefin features a drop point style Damascus blade. And if I’m going to be honest, the Damascus is one of the downsides to this knife. That drop point blade shape is one of my favorites, it’s a great style that makes it easy for piercing and cutting. But the Damascus is where the problem lies. While it is such a great looking steel on this knife, it hasn’t really stayed sharp for me. I’ve been carrying this knife everyday for about 3 months. And I’ve had to sharpen it 4 times now. I have been cutting things like boxes, zip ties, plastic bags, tape and plastic straps. So it’s definitely been doing its fair share of work.

 Now getting dull quicker doesn’t mean that this knife is bad. Just know that it’s not going to stay sharp for a long period of time. But, I can tell you this. It sharpens super quickly, and when it’s sharp…it is SHARP! Plus, the jimping on the backside of this blade is probably some of my favorite. It’s very coarse and my fingers stick into it really well. Which helps me get good control over the knife.

Opening

  The Civivi Kitefin has that classic super smooth Civivi blade opening. And that’s all thanks to the caged ceramic ball bearings on the blades pivot point. It has two different ways that you can open the knife, which I really like. You can use the flipper tab on the back of the handle or you can use the button for the lock. Just push it down and flick the knife open. Having a couple different ways to open up a pocket knife is a very nice feature to have. It allows you to be able to open the knife in different positions, where you may not be able to always use the flipper, or you may not always be able to use the button lock to flick it open. So having those two different methods of opening the knife is super useful in all kinds of situations.

Lock

  The Civivi Kitefin features a really nice button-lock system. It’s a very handy lock because it not only secures the blade, but also allows you to press the button and flick the knife open. One thing I really like about the locking button is that it’s recessed, so the top of the button sits flush with the handle. This makes it much harder to accidentally press the button and unlock the blade while you’re using the knife, or while it is in your pocket. The button also has a nice amount of spring tension, which helps prevent the knife from closing when you don’t want it to.

Summary

  The Civivi Kitefin has a great look with that brownish grey handle, paired with the Damascus blade. While also being very durable and getting the job done. It’s got that wonderfully smooth opening that Civivi has mastered. While the blade may not stay sharp for a long period of time, it’s easy to sharpen and will cut what you need it too. If you’re wanting a good knife that mixes style with durability. Then I highly recommend checking out the Civivi Kitefin.

Firearms Insider Reviews - Key Points

Claim to Fame:

This is a great folding knife for those fancy occasions or if you’re just wanting a little more of a decorative knife.

Target Market:

For anyone who would like a knife, that is fancy, and also tough.

Features, Benefits, and Specifications of this product:

  • Overall Length:  7.52"

  • Blade Length:  3.22"

  • Blade Thickness:  0.12"

  • Blade Material:  Damascus

  • Blade Style:  Drop Point

  • Blade Grind:  Hollow

  • Handle Length:  4.30"

  • Handle Material:  Aluminum

  • Color:  Brown, Gray

  • Weight:  2.78 oz.

  • User:  Right Hand, Left Hand

  • Pocket Clip:  Tip-Up

  • Knife Type:  Manual

  • Opener:  Flipper

  • Pivot Type:  Bearings

  • Lock Type:  Button Lock

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

There are 4 different styles that you can get, but the prices do vary. All 4 come with an aluminum handle and the colors are Purple, White, Brownish Grey, and Black. The other 3 come with a 14C28N steel blade. The White and Purple handles have black blades, while the Black handle has a Satin blade.

What others are saying?:

The Gray Dog on YouTube

Price point:

MSRP = $110.00   

Retail = $93.50 

I need it now! Availability:

Civivi, Amazon, BladeHQ, or your local retailer

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Nice knife that fits well in your hand.

  • Super smooth opening.

  • Come out of the pocket very easily.

  • Looks very fancy and nice.

  • Love the aluminum handle.

Cons:

  • Doesn’t stay sharp, and I’ve had to sharpen it 4 times in 3 months.

Score: 8.00 Great

Favorite Link:  Civivi Buster Review

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Full Forge Gear

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Full Forge Gear Review

  Full Forge Gear sent me some of their items to try out. They are their: Torrent double rifle case, Hurricane backpack, and Storm Tool Bag. I will write a little bit about all of them, so you can skip ahead to the section that interests you. All of these products are an exceptional value for the money and can be used for a variety of range tasks.

  All of these Full Forge Gear products have similar construction. They are made from 600 denier fabric so they are pretty durable. Full Forge Gear lines them with a smoother 210 denier polyester. They all are running 10-gauge zippers. Plus they are all water resistant. Now if you like a little color in your life, you might be disappointed that they only come in black or tan colors. No Olive Drab for Chad.

Now a little review on the goods:

Hurricane Backpack:

  The Hurricane Pack is packed with features and pockets. I’ll try to explain them all, but I will probably miss something. It starts with vented padded shoulder straps with a sternum strap. Straps are very comfortable. There is also a waist strap on the Hurricane pack, I proceeded to take it off because I am not carrying enough stuff for it to matter. There is also a carry strap at the top of the pack in case you just need to grab it and go. Of course the pack has a ton of pockets, both inside and out. The pack's dimensions are 18 inches x 11 inches x 11 inches. So it is not huge and not tiny. I do like this size pack as it can be used as a personal item on flights, since it will fit “under the seat in front of you”.

  The back portion of the Hurricane pack has some additional features. It is padded with a harder style padding. This is not a bad thing as there are spaces between the padding to allow for air flow to keep it cooler on your back. It is also more comfortable than you think it would be. Toward the bottom of the back is also a clear “name tag” holder so you can distinguish between your pack and your friend who has the same one. Lastly, on the back of the pack is a large pocket for a hydration bag. It is between the padding and the rest of the bag and has a hook and loop closer at the top. If you don’t want to put a hydration bladder in it, it could be used for backpack armor. 

  Backpacks usually have one main compartment, the Hurricane essentially has two. The largest one completely unzips and can fold down. Inside this compartment is a large open mesh pocket on one side, and a smaller zippered one on the other side. These are useful for whatever kind of stuff you want to put in it. Then there is the slightly smaller large compartment. This sits in front of the largest one, more toward the out part of the pack. This one unzips about two thirds of the way. Inside it is one open small mesh pouch with two smaller pouches on it. These two main compartments give you a lot of room to fill up.

  Lastly there are two pockets on the front of the Hurricane backpack. The top one is smallish and fits a pair of glasses nicely, which is probably what it was made for. The exterior of this pocket has MOLLE and hook, so you can attach your favorite stuff or patches. The other exterior pouch is what I would call the admin pouch. It is about twice the size of the glasses pouch. Inside are open pockets for pens and such. The exterior of the admin pocket has some more MOLLE for attaching extra stuff. There are also plenty of extra straps to help keep pockets and pouches closed.

  The Hurricane Backpack is so useful that my wife is stealing it from me. She saw it and said, “That will make a great bug out bag for the dogs”. So the pack that I really liked, because it has so many pockets, is now a Labrador pack. I just need to figure out how to get him to wear it. The pack is also very comfortable for a human and a great size. I might just have to buy myself one. At under 60 dollars, they really are a great pack for the price. 

Torrent Double Rifle Case:

  Now, the Torrent Double rifle case. As one would expect, this is soft padded and can hold 2 rifles. It is really more of a carbine case since it is only 37 inches x 14 inches x 12.5 inches. Inside the main rifle storage compartment is a padded separator to keep the 2 carbines from bashing into each other. Each side of the rifle compartment has an angled piece of fabric at the front and rear. These are to help keep the muzzle of the firearm protected. It also helps keep the rifle from flopping around inside. To secure the rifle on each side, there are two wide hook and loop straps. All of this is pretty standard as far as rifle cases go.

  Full Forge also supplies a shoulder strap that hooks to the outside. The shoulder strap itself is fine, I just didn't like how it hooks across the bag at each end. It seems to get in the way of opening the case up. Luckily it has quick connect clips to take it on and off. Then of course, there are two fabric carrying handles at the top center. These carry handles can also be hooked together, with the hook and loop strap that is sewed onto one of the carry handles. 

  On the exterior of the Torrent rifle case are three pockets. These pockets are on the outside of another large side pocket. The large outer pocket can be used for pistols, ammo, or something like a SBR. The three smaller outer pockets can be used for magazines, ammo, or tools. These outer pockets have flaps that hook and loop shut. They also have a strap and clip to make sure they don't accidentally come open. 

 I like the Torrent Double Rifle case. These types of soft rifle cases are my go to. The Torrent has not let me down yet. Typically I put two carbines in the main compartment and something with a folding stock in the outer one. This lets me only have to take one case to the range. I would like the case to be a little longer, or for Full Forge to make an XL version. But really, the length is the only thing that could be improved. Everything else just works like a soft rifle case should. 

Storm Tool Bag:

  My son asked for the Storm Tool Bag to use at matches, so I put him to work. Here is what he has to say:

Recently, the Firearmsinsider.tv received some Full Forge Gear to review. Part of that was one of their tool bags. With little use for it, they gave the bag to me as I was in need of something like it. I have been needing a range bag for a while. Most of my time at the range is short and usually consists of shooting a competition, or trying out a gun or two. This makes the need for large, bulky range bags obsolete for me. That’s where this bag shines.

The Full Forge Gear Tool bag is not designed to be a range style bag, kind of. Though it still worked great for holding all the ammo I needed for a day trip, along with enough room for extras such as an extra pistol, my ear and eye pro, and pockets on the side for your smaller items. Like I previously said, this bag is a tool bag, not a range bag. This makes storing some items in the bag a struggle since all the pockets on the inside are made for things like screwdrivers, wire cutters, and other various tools. I find myself only using these interior side pockets for things like my gun oil and magazine loaders. The pockets are extremely tight and don’t even fit a Glock mag, which is a gripe of mine. Overall the construction of the bag feels extremely durable. The large zipper is nice and very easy to open. The bag has a couple exterior pockets to hold other various items (or tools) but I didn’t find myself using them. The bag opens extremely wide which makes searching for things in the bag extremely easy. This large opening also works well for pulling out larger items such as boxes of ammo. Overall, as a range bag for short, lightweight trips, this thing works great. My only complaints lie with the interior and exterior pockets, as they are too small for most of the equipment you bring to the range with you. I hope to try Full Forge Gear’s actual range bag line to see if these problems are solved.

  Full Forge Gear makes some good soft items. The prices on these are reasonable and they should give you a long service life. I was pleased with all of them. The Hurricane Backpack holds a ton of stuff, yet is not super large. The Torrent rifle case does what I need it to, and then a little more. The Storm Tool Bag is used as a range bag, for when you only need to carry ammo and magazines. But it is built nice and would also work as it is intended. If you are looking for some reasonably priced gear for the range, go check out the Full Forge Gear line of products.

Firearms Insider Reviews - Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Affordably priced gear

Target Market:

Anyone wanting cases, gear, bags, or other affordable gear

Features, Benefits, and Specifications of this product:

  • Torrent Double rifle case

    • 600 denier polyester fabric

    • 210 denier polyester lining

    • Nylon monofilament thread stitching

    • 10-gauge nylon zipper

    • Polyester EVA 10mm thick foam

    • Water-resistant

    • MOLLE webbing exterior

    • 3 exterior accessory pouches

    • Additional exterior pocket

    • Interior padded divider

    • Reinforced carry handle for heavy loads

    • Padded shoulder strap

    • Weight: 7.5 lbs

    • Dimensions: 37" x 14" x 12.5"

  • Hurricane backpack

    • 600 denier polyester fabric

    • 210 denier polyester lining

    • Nylon monofilament thread stitching

    • Polyester EVA 10mm thick foam

    • 10-gauge nylon zipper

    • Large internal hydration pocket

    • Water-resistant

    • Reinforced nylon straps

    • Customizable velcro patch

    • 2 exterior pouches with interior organizational pockets

    • 2 large interior pockets with interior organizational options

    • Hydration reservoir

    • Reinforced carry handle for heavy loads

    • Padded shoulder straps

    • Buckled waste band

    • Additional MOLLE webbing coverage

    • Lockable zippers

    • Weight: 3 lbs

    • Dimensions: 18" x 11" x 11"

    • Approximate Capacity: 1,870cu in

  • Storm Tool Bag

    • 600 denier polyester fabric

    • 210 denier polyester lining

    • Nylon monofilament thread stitching

    • 10-gauge nylon zipper

    • Water-resistant

    • Reinforced hard base

    • 10 exterior pouches

    • 14 interior pockets

    • Reinforced carry handle for heavy loads

    • Weight: 1.80 lbs

    • Dimensions: 9" x 12" x 9.5"

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

Black and Tan in most products

What others are saying?:

Nothing much found

Link to other reviews:

Pro Gunfighter

RangeHot

Price point:

MSRP:

Retail:

I need it now! Availability:

Full Forge Gear,  Amazon,  or Shootammo.com

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Quality for the price you pay

  • Lots of pockets

  • Good padding

Cons:

  • Small inner pockets in Tool Bag

  • Rifle case can be a little short for some AR’s

Score: All - 7.50 Good

Favorite Link:  Hi-Point 995P Review 

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Primary Weapons Systems MOD-2 6 ARC Upper Receiver

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Primary Weapons Systems

MOD-2 6 ARC Upper Review

  I finally made the choice to get into the 6 ARC platform. This took me down the road of looking for a 6 ARC upper, or just building one myself. Along comes Primary Weapons Systems (PWS) and their new 6 ARC piston upper receivers. A 6 ARC with a piston system intrigued me. PWS has been making long stroke gas piston AR’s for a long time, so if anyone could do the 6 ARC in a piston gun, I knew it would be them. They did not disappoint.

  A little while later one of the Primary Weapons Systems MOD-2 6 ARC upper receiver’s showed up at my door. PWS has a MOD-1 version that has a few less frills on it, but essentially works the same way. These uppers are available in the MK118 and the MK114. The MK118 uses an 18 inch barrel, while the MK114 uses a 14.5 inch barrel. Since the 6 ARC performs decently well in shorter barrels, I chose the MK114. I also was going to run a suppressor on the rifle, so a 14.5 inch barrel would make the overall package a little shorter. Remember, if you mount the MK114 on a rifle, it must be registered as an SBR. Otherwise, it must be used on a pistol AR lower receiver. I have various SBR’s around, so that was not a problem. However, since ATF Form 1’s are zero dollars, I did fill out a new form 1 to make the PWS upper a complete SBR’d rifle.

   The PWS MOD-2 upper has features that one would expect on an upper of this quality. The receiver itself is one that PWS uses in quite a few of their rifles. The MOD-2 does not come with a forward assist. It is a stripped down version with some design angles to make it more appealing to the eye. The design probably helps with strength, but I do not know that for sure. I do not care that it doesn't have a forward assist, especially since it is not a rifle that I will be using super hard. PWS installs a FRC 3 port comp on the upper’s 5/8-24 threads. This muzzle device uses the Rearden Atlas/Plan B exterior threads. This allows you to use a suppressor with that attachment system, letting you easily install and remove a suppressor. One thing that really surprised me on the MOD-2 upper was its weight. The thing only tips the scales at 4.7 pounds. The internet will tell you that piston systems are heavy. This PWS upper proves that that is not true. I weighed a 16” 556 direct impingement upper, that is pretty close to the same style, it weighed 4.5 pounds. So yes, the PWS does weigh a tiny bit more, but it is not enough to write home about. 

  PWS uses their PicLok handguard on the MOD-2. The PicLok handguard is a unique combination of a M-Lok handguard that has some picatinny style mounting points at the front of it. M-Lok slots are at the 3, 6, and 9 o’clock positions, with the top being a full length picatinny rail. At the front of the handguard, at the 3 and 9 positions, are short PicLok sections. Then on the bottom, there is a longer PicLok section. As one can guess, the PicLok sections are used to directly mount picatinny accessories to. But also in the PicLok sections, are threaded holes. These are used to mount M-Lok accessories. All you need to do is take the nuts off of the M-Lok mount, then screw the remaining screws directly into the holes in the PicLok rail section. It's a really cool design that works well. Since the MOD-2 has an adjustable piston, there is also a space, at the top front section of the rail, to allow you to adjust the gas system for the piston. 

  A long stroke gas piston system is the heart of the PWS MOD-2 upper. Piston systems can be more reliable than direct impingement systems, mainly because they run cleaner. Since the MOD-2 is a long stroke piston, that means that the operating rod and piston are attached to the bolt carrier group. When the rifle is fired, gas pushes the piston, operating rod, and the bolt carrier all at one time. This tends to give a smoother cycling over a short stroke gas piston, which literally hits the bolt carrier with the operating rod. The PWS MOD-2 upper also has a 3 position gas adjustment. This is mainly for suppressor use, but can also be used to tune the rifle for specific ammunition. The 3 positions are marked with the numbers 1, 2, and 3. Position #1 if for use without a suppressor. Positions 2 and 3 are for suppressor use. For adjustment, there is a cut-out toward the front top of the handguard. This is also where you will see what number the gas block is set to. PWS supplies a tool for adjustment, but anything that fits in the hole works. Changing the gas settings is super easy which makes it nice if you are installing and removing a suppressor often. PWS uses a 1 in 7.5 twist rate for the 6 ARC uppers. It is a good twist rate for all weights of ammunition. 

  As mentioned, I installed the PWS MOD-2 6 ARC upper on one of my SBR’d lowers. I also installed a Primary Arms 4-16 first focal plane optic. But for accuracy work, the 4-16 came off for a Sightmark 5-30. PWS guarantees their stuff to shoot 1 moa. I went through a bunch of ammo to try this out. Shooting 5 shot groups, most of the ammo I tried would shoot 1.25 inch groups at 100 yards all day long. Not bad, but I figured some of it was me, hence the larger scope. I then procured some 80 grain Hornady TAP. It shot a 0.75 inch group. Don't worry, the 108 grain stuff also shoots well and would be a better choice for longer distance shooting. The 6 ARC is just a fantastic round and the PWS upper shoots it very smoothly. 

  The PWS MOD-2 also shoots and runs fantastic when suppressed. At first I had installed a Bowers Vers 375 suppressor. This is a fairly versatile and larger suppressor. I adjusted the gas block to position #2 and it ran well, with a good ejection pattern. I did try position #3 and it would fail to feed when shooting fast. Since position #3 is the most restrictive, this didn't surprise me. A few months after receiving the MOD-2 upper, I won a Huxwrx Flow 6k suppressor. So on it went, especially since it was designed as a 6mm suppressor. The Flow 6k is also a “flow through” suppressor, unlike the Bowers can. It is also smaller than the Bowers, but suppresses really well. I proceeded to try it out on setting #2, but because of the flow though design it just wasn't ejecting very well. So back to position #1 and it worked great there. Who would have thought that a flow through suppressor actually does what it says. I did also do some bill drills with the 6 ARC, just to see how it performed. The upper ran great, but my wallet didn't. So when PWS says “suppressor optimized”, it really is true. 

  The 6 ARC piston upper from Primary Weapons Systems is top notch. You get the advantage of a piston driven system in the 6 ARC caliber. Which gives you a cleaner running system. It also lets you reach out to longer distances reliably, in a standard AR15 size rifle. The PWS MOD-2 also lets you run suppressors easily and adjust the upper to fit your suppressors needs. If you are looking for a great system in the 6 ARC cartridge, go check out the MOD-2 piston upper receivers from Primary Weapons Systems. 

Firearms Insider Reviews - Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Piston AR upper receiver in 6 ARC

Target Market:

Anyone wanting a reliable, accurate, piston upper for their AR15

Features, Benefits, and Specifications of this product:

  • Sub-MOA Accuracy Guarantee: Experience Sub-MOA accuracy with high-grade ammo, thanks to our Boise made precision barrels.

  • PWS Long Stroke Piston System

  • 3 way adjustable gas system

  • Suppressor Optimized

  • Caliber: 6mm ARC

  • Lightweight Design: The MK114 6MM ARC upper weighs just 4.7 lbs

  • Barrel: 41V50 steel 14.5" non-pinned barrel with a 1:7.5 twist rate, delivering exceptional accuracy and versatility when firing all types of 6MM ARC ammunition.

  • PWS FRC 3-Port Compensator: Compatible with the Rearden Atlas/Plan B suppressor mounting system.

  • Innovative PicLok™ Handguard: Combining both Picatinny and MLOK into one for mounting accessories.

  • Radian Raptor™ Ambidextrous Charging Handle.

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

Mod-1 and 18 inch barrel lengths

What others are saying?:

Nothing found as of publishing

Link to other reviews:

Valor Defense Depot

Price point:

MSRP = $1,499.95

Retail = $1399.95

I need it now! Availability:

PWS, Midway USA, Primary Arms, or your local retailer 

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Quick gas adjustment 

  • Radian Raptor charging handle 

  • Suppressor ready

  • PicLok handguard

  • Piston reliability

  • Currently the only 6 ARC piston upper you can buy 

Cons:

  • Hard to find in stock

  • Price compared to traditional DI systems

Score: 8.50 Great 

Favorite Link:  PWS MK116 Pro Upper Review  

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ZeroTech Thrive HD 1x Prism

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ZeroTech Thrive HD

1x Prism Review

  If you did not already know, ZeroTech Optics has a 1x prism. ZeroTech has recently expanded the Thrive HD 1x Micro Prism with a Flat Dark Earth version. Since I really like prism optics, I had to get one and see how it compared. Plus, the FDE version caught my eye and looks really nice.

  As with most prism sights nowadays, the Thrive HD comes with all the normal features. You get soft touch buttons. A side load battery tray. An adjustable diopter so you can see the illuminated reticle clearly. It specs out a 50,000 hour battery life with an auto awake/sleep feature. Plus it comes with a nice little neoprene cover, which I have misplaced.

  The Thrive HD prism comes with a pretty standard style reticle. It is a large circle dot etched reticle style with short lines that break up the circle every 90 degrees. It works well for getting on target fast, but does have a few shortcomings. The dot portion of the reticle uses a nice 3 moa dot. The dot gives a good compromise between speed and accuracy. Since the circle portion of the reticle is large, 110 moa, it limits its use on something like an AR style rifle. I say this because there are no good reticle marks for height over bore at 5-10 yards. However, with the dot sighted in at 100 yds, the lower stadia and circle are good for 500-600 yard shots. If you install the prism on a pcc or something that you are only shooting out to 100 yards, just sight the dot in at 25 or 50 and call it good. The Thrive HD is still a good all around 1x prism. 

  As mentioned previously, the Thrive HD has all the latest tech. Shake awake, 50k battery life, easy battery changes, and soft buttons. It also has red illumination for the etched reticle. There are 13 illumination settings, so you can get it as bright or as dim as you like. Even though it is technically not a daylight bright reticle. It is bright enough to be seen on most days, unless the sun is fairly bright. But since the reticle is etched, you will always see the black reticle, even if your battery dies or you decide to aim at the sun. 

  Even though the ZeroTech Thrive HD prism is stated to be 1 power, it is not. This is my biggest complaint. It is more like a 1.1-1.2 power optic. This makes you see a double image if you try to look at something close up, with both eyes open. As you get farther out in distance, it is not noticeable. With anything closer than 20 yards, I had to close my non-dominant eye so it didn’t bother me. Besides that, the Thrive HD prism is super clear. I wonder since it is so clear, if that is why, at close distances, I see a slightly magnified image? The 20mm objective lens gives decent light transmission. It also makes finding the reticle fairly easy.

  The Thrive HD 1x Prism is in the new style of prism optics. This makes it possible to use back up iron sights. Yes, you can see the sights through the prism, even if they are a tiny bit fuzzy with the Thrive. The other big advantage to these new prisms is that you can put a magnifier behind them, thus giving you more magnification.

  When you think about prism optics, weight might be a concern. The Thrive HD tips the scales at 7.55 ounces. This is right in line with other prism sights. A big advantage to the Thrive HD is that it comes with 4 different mounting height options in the box. If one of these heights doesn’t fit you, the Thrive HD is compatible with Aimpoint T2 footprints. Thus giving you endless mounting options.

  When testing the Thrive HD prism I mounted it on the MAC IX. I figured this would be a good platform for it, and it was. This also helped show me the not true 1 power magnification. I will probably mount it on a rifle at a later date, since I only use the MAC for closer in shooting.  I really liked that it came with a bunch of different height mounts, especially since the brace on the MAC sits a little lower than an AR stock. Part of the reason I like prism optics is that the etched reticle doesn’t flare out because of my astigmatism. The Thrive HD prism’s reticle is super clear for me. I also like the auto awake feature. Not just because it extends battery life, but because I don’t have to remember to turn it off or on. Lastly, the FDE color on the prism looks more burnt bronze to me. I actually like the color. Besides, it adds another shade of FDE to the already 50 shades out there.

  The ZeroTech Thrive HD 1x prism, in FDE, is a nice optic. It is super clear and bright. Even if it really isn’t a true 1x power, it is still a nice prism optic. It comes with everything needed to mount it up, sight it in, and go blast some trash. So if you are looking for a new prism sight, take a look through the Thrive HD 1x Prism and see what you think.

Firearms Insider Reviews - Key Points

Claim to Fame:

1 power prism optic with etched reticle and auto on/off

Target Market:

Rifle shooters, competition shooters, hunters, and just general plinking

Features, Benefits, and Specifications of this product:

  • Magnification: 1x

  • Footprint: Aimpoint Micro (T1/T2) Compatible

  • Objective Lens Diameter: 20mm

  • Reticle type: Etched, Illuminated Prism Dot

  • Brightness Settings: 13

  • Controls: Soft buttons on top of optic

  • Auto Sleep/Auto ON

  • Illumination: Red

  • Battery: CR2032

  • Battery Life: Max 50000 Hours

  • Turret Index Value: 1 MOA

  • Windage/Elevation Adjustment: 100 MOA

  • Material: 6061 T6 Aluminum

  • Eye Relief: 3.5in (90mm)

  • Field Of View: 70ft / 23m

  • Lens Coating: Full Multi Coated

  • Operational Temperature: -20°C to 70°C (-4°F to 158°F)

  • Parallax Adjustment Range: Fixed – 100m (110yd)

  • Weight: 7.55oz (214g)

  • Color: FDE

  • Waterproof Rating: IPX7

  • Comes with 3 different height mounts

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

Original Black    

What others are saying?:

4 out of 5 stars on OpticsPlanet   

Very solid optic

Really like the reticle. Very eotech like but for people with eye shortcomings. Mount options are cool but the screws are garbage. Came loose on me twice at the range. Now I have to just get an aimpoint mount. I think this is an awesome start. I’d like to see a new gen with a better mount obviously and maybe 25mm with better glass. Even if it’s around the 300-350 msrp. It would rival aimpoint and many other gold standard optics. Definitely recommend though.

Link to other reviews:

Woody Outdoors (in Australia)    

Price point:

MSRP = $299.00

Retail = $239.20 with code “GGR” for 20% off 

I need it now! Availability:

ZeroTech Optics use code “GGR” for 20% off 

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Super Clear

  • Multiple mount heights included

  • T1/T2 footprint compatibility

  • Bright etched reticle

Cons:

  • Not true 1x

  • More Bronze color than FDE

  • Larger circle doesn’t suit AR15’s for close range

Score: 7.50 Good

Favorite Link:  ZeroTech Thrive HD 1-8x24 Review    

,

Inforce ARC 650 LR-M

,

Inforce ARC 650 LR-M

Review

  The Inforce ARC-650 really surprised me. Years ago, Inforce lights were okay, but now their long gun weapon lights are hot. The ARC-650 LR-M is super bright and has features that are compatible with industry standard lights. Making it a top contender in the weapon mounted light category. 

  Inforce has come a long way in their rifle mounted weaponlights. The ARC series has two available options: The ARC 350 LR-M and the ARC 650 LR-M. The ARC 650 is what I am using, but the 350 has similar compatibility. The ARC 350 is a shorter version that runs on a 18350 battery instead of the longer 18650. The 350 has shorter run time and is not quite as bright. Both ARC weaponlights have industry compatibility with mounts, heads, and tailcaps. Making them a great choice for mounting on any firearm.

Illuminated tree is around 150 yards away

  How usable is the light from the ARC 650? To answer that, I’ll dive into the specs first. The ARC 650 has 1400 lumens and 90,000 candela. Since the lumen rating basically tells us how much light is available, the ARC is bright. Being a 90,000 candela rated light also tells us that it has a more focused beam than a light with say a 40,000 candela rating. The higher the candela, the more a light beam is focused on a single point. I found the ARC 650 to be a very good compromise between the range at which the light beam extends and being able to light up something toward the side of the beam's throw. The LR in the ARC’s model is meant to mean “long range”. Inforce says a 600 meter throw, but I always say usable light is half that, and that seems to be about right for the ARC 650. I can easily make out targets at 200 yards and can definitely illuminate targets at 300 plus.

Target stands are at 50, 100, 200 yards

  The ARC 650 also comes with some necessary accessories. In the box you get a 3500mah 18650 rechargeable battery. The ARC 650 can use pretty much any 18650 battery. I have used various different ones that I have laying around, and they all worked fine. Inforce also includes a single charger and a USB cord, so that you can charge the battery. It is just a simple charger, but it works. When the supplied battery is fully charged, you can expect a two hour and forty five minute run time. Even if it runs for two hours, it has a lot longer run time than many other weapon lights. The ARC 650 also has dual fuel compatibility, meaning it can use two CR123 batteries, should your rechargeable run out of juice at the wrong time. 

  When I mentioned industry standard compatibility, here is what it means to you. The body of the ARC 650 uses the same thread pattern as a Surefire Scout light. It also has the standard “scout” bosses on the ARC’s body, these are used to mount the light to a handguard, via a mounting plate. Because of those “scout” threads, any aftermarket light heads and switches that are compatible with the “scout” pattern, can be screwed onto the ARC 650. This makes it possible to add pressure switches, external buttons, or an LEP light head from various other manufacturers.  

  Since the ARC 650 has “scout” compatibility, it uses a scout mount adapter. Inforce supplies a 45 degree M-Lok scout mount with the light. I was glad to find out it was a 45 degree mount, as that is what I usually run. The mount works as advertised and makes it super easy to install the light on a M-Lok handguard. 

  Using the ARC 650 is super easy with the supplied end cap button. As with most lights, push the button slightly for momentary on. Or, push the button until it clicks for constant on. The button has a nice click to it and does not take much pressure for the momentary on function. The button is also recessed completely inside the exterior housing. Making accidental turning on of the light much harder. The ARC 650 also has a light lockout. If you rotate the light head ¼ turn, then the light will not function. 

  I ran the ARC 650 on one of my higher end 16” 5.56 AR’s. Since the ARC 650 has a longer light throw than some other lights, I figured it would make more sense to mount it on a 16” gun rather than a 10.5”. The ARC performed fantastic. Having a really bright light can help with photonic barriers if needed. This applies in the daytime also. A bright light can pierce through tinted windows and let you see what is inside. Having a dual fuel function is nice, even though I tend to carry extra 18650’s. I really like that the ARC is “scout” compatible. I tried it with a bunch of other scout compatible parts that I have, and they all screwed on and worked. It also has an IPX8 rating, which is better than some of the name brands that cost way more. The ARC 650 is just a nice light that is easy to use and set up.

  So, if you are looking for a great weaponlight, the Inforce ARC 650 LR-M might be worth looking into. The price is the only thing going against this light. Price is somewhere between the lower cost lights that work well, and the high priced name brand ones. But, If you want really good compatibility, this light doesn’t seem over priced. The ARC 650 functions great and is a great compromise between light spill and throw, leaning more toward the throw side. It is a very bright light. If you can find an ARC 650, I would definitely check it out.

Firearms Insider Reviews - Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Long throw weapon mounted light with industry compatibility 

Target Market:

Those wanting a decent weaponlight that can be upgraded or modified.

Features, Benefits, and Specifications of this product:

  • Max Lumens - 1,400

  • ANSI Lumens - 1,200

  • Max Candela - 90,000

  • Max Beam Distance - 600m

  • Waterproof Rating - IPX8 Certified

  • Shock/Drop Rating - MIL-STD 810H Certified

  • Lockout Method - 1/4 Turn of the Head

  • Battery Runtime - 2 Hours 45 Minutes

  • Battery Type - Rechargeable 18650 - Protected

  • Dual fuel - Can use 2-CR123’s

  • Body Material - 6061-T6 Aluminum

  • Exterior Finish - Type III Hard Coat Anodized

  • Length - 5.6”

  • Bezel Diameter - 1.4”

  • Weight with Battery - 6.1 oz

  • Lifetime Warranty

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

ARC 350 and Handheld versions

What others are saying?:

Nothing found as of publishing 

Link to other reviews:

Tiberious Gib on YouTube

Price point:

MSRP = $249.97

Retail = A little over $200

I need it now! Availability:

Inforce, Midway USA, or your local gun shop

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Bright

  • Produces a good compromise of spill and throw

  • Industry compatibility

  • Dual Fuel - Uses 18650 or 2-CR123’s

  • IPX8 rating

Cons:

  • Price

Score:  8.00 Great

,

ETS Omega Magazines

,

ETS OMEGA GLOCK

MAGAZINE REVIEW

  As you can tell this review is about the Elite Tactical Systems (ETS) Omega Glock magazines. Last summer, at the GOA convention, I ran into a gentleman there and he invited me over to his booth. I didn’t know at the time he worked for ETS. I wish I could remember his name but I have sadly forgotten it. After talking for a while about boats, horses, and motorcycles, he started explaining to me about the new Omega mags. I told him that I had a stack of their older mags and I hated them. With the new magazines, he assured me that they fixed all the issues people had with them. I had my doubts, but as a good reviewer, I wanted to try them out. 

  So after about three weeks I received a decent size box from ETS, it had clear translucent magazines in it. In the box there were numerous G17 style mags, G19 style mags, and then the nice lovely G18 “Big Stick”. On first inspection the mags seemed very well made and had a different style spring than normal magazines. 

  The spring, from what I can remember him telling me and what I have read, is a music wire spring that has a high tensile strength. It is wound for equalized upward force, to push the round up to the feed lips consistently. The mag is made of an advanced translucent polymer body with an integrated hardened steel frame and feed lips. The mag is coated with a military grade Teflon coating inside and out. This helps the magazine to drop free. Most of all, it lets the spring travel easily inside the magazine body. This makes it not squeak like the old mags did. 

  So the biggest issue with all polymer mags and translucent magazines is that they swell after you load the mag. Then they do not drop free. If you did drop the mags, you had the potential for them to crack. The old mags all had plastic feed lips. These feedlips always seemed to wear and the mag ended up useless. UPDATE, the new mags have hardened feed lips. This solves the extraction and wear issue. They changed the follower and spring locking plate, so you can see how many rounds that are left in the mag. 

  With the new polymer, the hardened metal feedlips, Teflon coating, and the Omega joint at the upper rear of the mag, it solves all the issues we had with all old polymer mags. It eliminates friction in the mag well, friction on the spring moving in the body of the mag, and most of all the swelling. 

  I ran these Omega mags in numerous Glock clones, and a PCC that takes Glock mags. I had no issue with any of the pistols, but I did in the PCC. The mag did not want to lock into place. It would lock in if I down loaded the mag. I even tried it with the bolt open and it did the same thing. The functions of the mags were exceptional. I had no malfunctions and ran the cheapest steel cased junk ammo I had. The mags seat really close to the original mags when inserted. If you remember some older mags stuck out the bottom and did not make for a good look or for concealed carry. I did drop the mags a few times on concrete while at the range. I had one take a swim with me in muddy water. I just wiped them down and loaded it back up. I did notice the mags are a hair thicker than standard Glock magazines. I don’t know if this will cause an issue with 80% builds or other Glock clones. They just worked for me. 

  So in closing, I do believe the ETS Omega magazines are a massive leap better than any other polymer magazine on the market, or at least that I have tested. I have carried these mags as a backup when I carry a Glock pattern handgun. I use them at the range all the time with my PCC. Can I tell you that they are duty rated? I am absolutely not going to tell you that. I am going to say that they are fine mags and ETS did a great job making them. The advancements that were made fixed a lot of issues that other magazines had. ETS is also making Omega magazines for S&W M&P 9mm, Sig Sauer P320, if you dare, and of course Glock. 

Firearms Insider Reviews - Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Mags that bridge the gap between original OEM mags and older polymer magazines

Target Market:

Range trips

Competition shooters

High volume training

Features, Benefits, and Specifications of this product:

  • Hardened steel feedlips and frame

  • Patent pending Omega Joint™ and frame wraps 360 degrees for maximum strength and 100% drop-free reliability

  • Factory reliability

  • Military-grade Teflon-infused coating meets all military standards for corrosion and friction resistance

  • Extreme impact resistance with our patent pending fusion of polymer and hardened steel

  • Ergonomic floorplate design allows for an easy grip to pull from pouches

  • Weighs 50% less than an all-steel magazine

  • Compatible with Gen 1 through Gen 5 Glocks

  • Red follower and locking plate

  • Base plates interchangeable with ETS line of 9mm double stack magazines.

  • Due to the wide variety of extensions for Glock, our mag base is designed to be compatible with Glock extensions

  • Easy disassembly with our specially designed base plate

  • Lifetime Warranty

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

15, 17, and 30 round magazines as well as M&P, and P320

What others are saying?:

From ETS’ website:

Not my first magazine from here and won’t be my last. The 40 round mag looks good in my PCC. 

I’m pleased with the quality and like being able to tell at a glance how many rounds are left. 

Link to other reviews:

Gun Mag Warehouse

The Mag Shack  

Price point:

MSRP = $25.99 to $29.99 for Glock 

Retail = Same

I need it now! Availability:

Elite Tactical Systems 

Midway USA

PSA

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Drop free

  • Tough and dependable 

  • Better feed lips

  • Teflon coated

Cons:

  • Price versus OEM 

  • Closed slide seating the magazine 

  • Possible tolerance difference with clones or 80% firearms. 

Score: 8.00 Great

I am giving them a solid 8. The only reason that I’m not going higher is because they are not duty proven. Or at least I can not find if they are. 

,

ZeroTech Thrive HD Red Dot

,

ZeroTech Thrive HD

Digital Red dot Review

  Red dots are definitely not a new item in the firearms world. What is fairly new is the quality of red dots that you can get for an inexpensive price. ZeroTech has brought one of these good quality, inexpensive red dots to market with their Thrive HD digital 1x22 red dot. The Thrive HD red dot would be great for any PCC, carbine, or 22 rifle. 

  When ZeroTech first sent me the Thrive HD red dot, it reminded me of other similar red dots. Being similar to those other red dots is not a problem. In fact, it is a good thing in the Thrive HD's case. The Thrive HD's top selling point is the price. It can be had for under $150. But for that price, you get a decent, no frills red dot. 

  The ZeroTech red dot comes with every option it should. It also has some features of higher priced red dots. The Thrive HD comes with a high and low picatinny mount. It also uses the industry standard mounting footprint of the Aimpoint T1/T2. This makes finding other mounting options easy, if you don't want to use the supplied mounts. 

  Features of the Thrive HD are numerous. First you get a 2 moa dot inside a 22mm window. The dot is powered by a CR2032 side-mount battery. The battery gives a run time of 50,000 hours. It has 10 brightness settings controlled by the soft touch “+” & “-” buttons on top. It does not have an auto on/off, but I don't think it is needed with that battery life. Plus it's a value red dot that performs great. 

  I ended up mounting the Thrive HD red dot on a Hi-Point carbine in 9mm. The red dot was perfect for what I was doing with the Hi-Point PCC and it needed an optic of some sort. Plus, the direct blowback operating system puts more stress on the red dot, so it was perfect for a review. The glass is just as clear as my Holosun and Primary Arms red dots. The red dot on the Thrive HD is also clear and bright. Does it have night vision settings? No, but for an inexpensive red dot, why would it? 

  Sighting in the Thrive HD red dot was super easy. Once I decided where I wanted to mount the red dot, I torqued it down and headed to the range. Adjustments were easy, ZeroTech even supplies a little adjustment tool. The windage and elevation clicks are 0.5 moa at 100yds. I set up a target at 25 yards and started shooting, with a few clicks I was hitting where I was aiming. The Thrive HD red dot has not lost zero and still shoots great. It would make a great red dot for just about anything. 

  If you are looking for a good red dot, for a great price, the ZeroTech Thrive HD red dot might be worth looking into. It has a bunch of features that just work and nothing extra to go wrong. You can get a great deal on one over at the ZeroTech website and if you aren't into red dots, they have a bunch of other high quality optics.  

Firearms Insider Reviews - Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Quality inexpensive red dot with an industry standard mounting footprint

Target Market:

Anyone wanting a simple red dot

Features, Benefits, and Specifications of this product:

  • Magnification - 1x

  • Footprint - Aimpoint Micro compatible

  • Objective Lens Diameter - 22mm

  • Brightness Settings - 10 Adjustable levels

  • Controls - Digital with auto on/off

  • Illumination Function - Digital

  • Battery - CR2032

  • Battery Life - Max 50000 Hours

  • Turret Index Value - 0.5 mos

  • Construction - 6061-T6 Aluminium

  • Eye Relief - unlimited 

  • Operational Temperature: -20°C to 70°C (-4°F to 158°F)

  • Reticle - 2 MOA Red dot

  • Waterproof Rating - IPX7

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

None

What others are saying?:

Nothing found as of publishing 

Link to other reviews:

Nothing found as of publishing 

Price point:

MSRP = $199.00

Retail = $149.00 plus 20% off with code “GGR”

I need it now! Availability:

ZeroTech Optics or your local gun store

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Price

  • Simple to use

  • Industry standard mounting 

  • Battery life

Cons:

  • No auto on/off

Score: 8.00 Great

,

ZeroTech Thrive 1-10x24

,

Zerotech Thrive

1-10x24 RAR Review

  ZeroTech Optics has been releasing a lot of products recently. One of these is a new base model low power variable optic or LPVO. It is a second focal plane (SFP) 1-10 power optic with an illuminated reticle. The official name of this LPVO is the ZeroTech Thrive 1-10x24 - RAR. It offers clear glass as well as a bunch of other features.

  As mentioned, the Thrive 1-10 is ZeroTech’s value priced LPVO. It is currently just under 300 dollars. This makes it a great option for someone wanting to see if they want a LPVO, or anyone looking for an inexpensive option that has a 10x magnification. It also comes with a neoprene scope cover, which is way nicer than the plastic flip caps other companies give you.

  Being a 1-10 power optic has some advantages. At 1 power, this LPVO has a true 1x magnification, or as close as you can get. When at 1x, the Thrive 1-10 is really close to what looking through a red dot looks like, just with an actual reticle instead of a dot. Don’t get this confused though, it is not a red dot. Then, if you turn the magnification up to 10 power, you can identify targets with ease. Or actually reach out some distance to shoot. 25 years ago, a 10 power scope was all you needed to reach out to 1000 yards and that is still true today. 

  Now we know what the ZeroTech Thrive 1-10 is capable of, what kind of reticle does it have? The 1-10 uses ZeroTech’s “RAR” reticle. This reticle is a second focal plane MOA reticle. Being a SFP reticle, in this case, means that the reticle's MOA marks and numbers will only be accurate at 10x. It also means that the reticle will stay the same viewable size throughout the magnification range. Okay, let me try to explain the reticle, there is a lot going on, kind of. Pointing toward the center of the reticle are three, 4 MOA thick lines that taper down. One on each side, and one on the bottom. These are to help draw your eye to the center reticle portion. The center reticle has thin lines with hash marks every 2 MOA. These hash marks are 1 and 2 MOA high, depending on where they are on the stadia lines. These can be used for ranging, bullet drop, or windage. Inside the inner reticle is a 0.75 MOA dot. Then surrounding the inner dot and part of the reticle is a horseshoe ring. The horseshoe is 12 MOA in diameter. I really like the RAR reticle as I found it super quick and very useful.

  The RAR reticle is semi-illuminated. Basically the horseshoe and center dot illuminate. To turn the illumination on, tap the button on the battery cap. It has 6 illumination settings. To increase brightness, just push this same button again. Once it hits the brightest setting, when you tap the button again, it will start cycling down to the lowest setting. Then when on the lowest, it starts cycling up again. Hold the button down for a few seconds to turn the reticle off. The reticle is not “daylight bright”, but it is fairly bright and can be seen on overcast days. 

  Now that you know what the reticle of the Thrive 1-10 looks like, it needs to be sighted in. Having the ability to crank the Thrive up to 10 power really helps you be able to see where you are hitting on the target. The adjustment ring, to adjust that magnification from 1-10x, is fairly smooth. It also has a small, removable, throw lever. It's not huge like some others, but it is useful. The Thrive 1-10 uses capped turrets. So to adjust the windage and elevation, you must unscrew them and set them aside. Then you have standard click adjustable turrets. The turret’s clicks are not super positive. They also feel a little mushy to me. This is a base model scope, so I didn't expect them to be crisp. More just a heads up. Once the turrets are adjusted to your satisfaction, you can loosen the center screw, pull the turret up, set it to zero, and re-install the screw. Something else I noticed with the Thrive 1-10 is that each click adjustment is ¼ MOA, which is a more fine adjustment than many of the Thrive's direct competitors in the market. 

  The clarity of the Thrive 1-10 impressed me. For being a value optic, the clarity at 10x was nice. It didn't have any shadows around the edges, just a clear picture. The eye relief is decent, but a little tight at 10x. I'd say the eye relief falls in the middle of comparably priced LPVO’s. There are better and there are worse. At 1 power, the scopes clarity and eye relief are quite good. I didn't run into any trouble, using the Thrive, anywhere in its magnification range. 

  I ended up mounting the Thrive 1-10 on a 16” 556 AR. It needed something other than the red dot that was on it and the Thrive fit the bill nicely. After mounting the scope, it was off to the range. This is where I ran into the Thrive's only real problem. I pushed the button to turn on the illumination. Okay, that worked as expected. Then I shot the rifle. Every time the rifle recoiled, the illumination would flicker off and then back on. I contacted ZeroTech and they said that it can do that with certain recoil impulses. Yes, it is an inexpensive optic, but this bothers me. It's not like I was mounting the Thrive on something with heavy recoil. I guess I'll have to move it to a 22lr or not use the illumination. Besides that drawback, I really like the reticle. It is easy to use and draws your eye right to the center aiming point. 

  If you are looking at getting into an LPVO, the ZeroTech Thrive 1-10x24 is not a bad choice. Yes it has some problems, but it also has some great features. Personally, I think it would be a fantastic optic for a 22lr rifle. Go head over to ZeroTech and take a look at the Thrive 1-10x24 RAR. 

Firearms Insider Reviews - Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Low cost, second focal plane, LPVO with decent reticles

Target Market:

Anyone wanting to get onto the LPVO game

Features, Benefits, and Specifications of this product:

  • Focal Plane - Second (SFP)

  • Magnification: 1-10x

  • Reticle calibrated magnification power (SFP only) - 10x

  • Objective Lens Diameter - 24mm

  • Main tube Diameter - 30mm

  • Reticle type - RAR Illuminated

  • Fixed parallax – 125m (137yd)

  • Turret Index Value - 0.25 MOA

  • Exit Pupil Diameter - Low: 8mm; High: 2.4mm

  • Eye Relief - 3.62-3.94in (92-100mm)

  • Windage & Elevation Adjustments - 120 MOA

  • Field of View @ 100 Yards - Low: 118.8ft; High: 11.3ft

  • Main tube Material - 6061-T6

  • Weight - 17.8oz (505g)

  • Full multi coated lenses

  • Reticle - RAR Illuminated

  • Objective Outer Diameter - 30mm

  • Ocular Outer Diameter - 44.5mm

  • Waterproof Rating - IPX7

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

G4 and PHR4 reticles

What others are saying?:

Nothing found as of publishing

Link to other reviews:

Nothing found as of publishing

Price point:

MSRP = $449.00

Retail = $299.00 plus 20% off

I need it now! Availability:

ZeroTech Optics 

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Great reticle

  • Inexpensive for 1-10 SFP

  • Lightweight

  • Push button brightness adjustment

  • Clear glass

Cons:

  • Reticle flashes on recoil

  • Mushy turret clicks

Score: 6.50 Okay

,

Foxtrot Mike VFM-9 Foldy Boi

,

Foxtrot Mike Foldy Boi 9mm PCC

The Blue-Collar Sub-Gun Review

  Let’s be real, most of us aren't looking to drop three months’ mortgage on a "Gucci" PCC just to have it sit in a safe. You want something that runs every time, fits in a backpack or under a truck seat, and doesn't require a specialized degree to maintain. The VFM-9 "Foldy Boi" is exactly that—a rugged, purpose-built tool that punches way above its price tag. Here’s the breakdown for the guy who values performance over "clout."

  So lets just clear the air up front, this was sent to me for review from FM Product. I called Foxtrot Mike and specifically asked for the Foldy Boi. I have built a number of 9mm PCC’s and have always had a hard time getting them to run reliably. I did my research before giving him a call and had questions. How does the mass buffer system work? How does it suppress? Is it reliable with all ammo? Can I have one? How strong is the integrated folding system?

  So we are going to start out with a few facts:

1. Portability: The "Truck Gun" King

The "Foldy Boi" name isn't just a meme. Unlike other ARs that need a bulky $200 adapter bolted onto the back, this folding mechanism is machined directly into the receiver.

• The Benefit: It’s rock-solid. No wiggle, no extra parts to loctite, and it cuts the footprint down small enough to fit into a standard 15-inch laptop bag or a tool bag.

• The Reality: It’s a "backpack gun" that actually fits in a backpack.

2. Reliability: It Just Works (With Glock Mags)

If you own a Glock, you’re already halfway there. The VFM-9 is built around the Glock magazine platform, which is the gold standard for reliability and affordability.

• The LRBHO: A lot of cheap 9mm ARs don't lock the bolt back on the last round. It’s annoying and slows you down. Foxtrot Mike’s Last Round Bolt Hold Open is built like a tank—it works every single time, even with cheap Magpul or ETS mags.

3. Ergonomics: Not Your Standard AR

4. The standout feature is the Forward Charging Handle. Instead of reaching back by your face like a standard AR-15, you rack this thing up by the handguard, sort of like an MP5 or a FAL.

5. Why it matters: It’s faster to clear malfunctions and easier to manipulate if you’re in a cramped space (like inside a vehicle). Plus, it’s non-reciprocating, meaning it stays still while you’re firing so no thumb-smacking.

  Now lets get to some specs on what I am calling the “KING OF TRUCK GUNS”

  • Manufacturer: Foxtrot Mike Products.

  • Platform: VFM-9B (dedicated 9mm).

  • Caliber: 9mm Luger.

  • Operating System: Straight Blowback.

  • Magazine Compatibility: 9mm Glock-style magazines.

  • Weight: Approximately 5 lbs for the full pistol; the complete lower receiver alone is approximately 2.25 lbs.

  • Length: 21 inches extended; reduced to 14 inches when folded (7-inch total reduction).

Barrel & Upper Receiver

  • Barrel Length: 5.2 inches

  • Barrel Material: 41V50 Premium Match Grade steel, vacuum stress relieved, and Melonite coated.

  • Barrel Twist: 1:10.

  • Muzzle Thread: 1/2 x 28 (Standard on newer VFM-9 uppers).

  • Handguard: M-LOK free-float rail with a 1.3-inch internal diameter.

  • Charging Handle: Dual charging options (front and rear) available on VFM-9 models. 

Lower Receiver & Folding System

  • Material: Machined from billet 7075-T6 aluminum.

  • Folding Mechanism: Integrated hinge built directly into the lower receiver (not an add-on adapter).

  • Controls: Fully ambidextrous safety selector, bolt catch, and magazine release.

  • Trigger: Curved Mil-Spec trigger.

  • Last Round Bolt Hold Open (LRBHO): Integrated into the lower receiver.

  • Magwell: 3D machined extra-wide flared magwell for faster reloads.

  • Finish: Type III Hardcoat Anodized.

  • Buffer System: Proprietary Recoil Mitigation Buffer (RMB) designed for an A5-length buffer tube.

  • Recoil Mitigation Buffer (RMB): This is a heavy, one-piece buffer weighing approximately 9.4 to 10.6 oz. Unlike standard solid buffers, it uses a sliding body mechanism with internal reciprocating masses that act as a "deadblow" to prevent the bolt from bouncing off the barrel during high-speed operation.

  • A5-Length Buffer Tube: The Foldy Boi uses an A5-length tube (approx. 7.75 inches), which is longer than a standard carbine tube. This extra length allows for the use of the longer proprietary buffer while maintaining proper bolt travel for reliable cycling 

  • Integrated Folding Hinge: Because the hinge is built directly into the 7075-T6 billet lower, the buffer features a special extension to bridge the gap of the folding mechanism.

  • Recoil Spring: It typically ships with a .308 carbine flat-wire spring or a high-strength round-wire spring. This stiffer spring is critical for controlling the heavy bolt of a blowback system.

  • Non-Firing Folded: Note that because the buffer and spring must stay in the tube, the firearm cannot be fired while folded. The system includes a latch to keep the bolt from sliding out when the hinge is open.

  The VFM-9 isn't a safe queen. It’s a tool. It’s built for the guy who wants a compact, reliable 9mm system for home defense or travel without paying the "luxury tax" for a European brand name. It’s American-made, over engineered in the right places, and priced for people who work for a living. I always try to review firearms that the average person can afford. This Little folding PCC fits the itch of who I am. I have taken it apart, changed out parts with standard AR parts and fired it. It ran. I replaced the parts back with the original for the review. For a quick note you can use a FRT trigger, suppress it and let it rock and roll for a lot of fun. I have a little more than 1200 rounds through it. I started off by taking all my carry ammo and rotated it through. It was a mix of 115gr to 147gr of hollow points. I read on the internet somewhere that you needed to allow a 200 round break in but I am not sure if this is in the owners manual. I had a bunch of flat nosed pure lead 9mm ammo that I do not remember the weight and it fed them perfectly. Did I mention that it takes Glock style mags? The last round bolt hold open is a nice touch compared to other PCC’s.

  So is the VFM-9 "Foldy Boi" the perfect truck gun or king of the PCC’s? Well in my eyes it is. You compare it with one of the 3 barrel length options, 5”, 7” or 10”, price, reliability, and the lifetime customer support and this is all you need. So why spend three times as much to say you have a clone of something when you can have the controls of your standard AR, less the front charging system? You still have plenty of rail space in a M Lok configuration to add your favorite accessories. I had no issues with my PCC, it chomped down everything I fed it, it fit in my backpack and I carried it in public this way. I actually laid it in the front seat of my truck and covered the whole thing with my cowboy hat while folded. It checks off all the boxes I have for a truck gun. It is small, accurate, reliable and I enjoy showing it off to friends and people at the range. I know a lot of writers put a lot more specs or technical data in their reviews, but I just felt this one needed an honest working man's review. I guess this is more of how I feel about it. I would recommend the Foxtrot Mike VFM-9 "Foldy Boi" to anyone looking for a truck gun, especially if you carry a handgun that uses the same mags. That just makes a combo you can't beat.  

Firearms Insider Reviews - Key Points

Claim to Fame:

  • American made

  • True integrated folder

  • LRBHO

  • Compact

  • HK style charger

  • Glock mags 

  • Fits in a backpack

  • Price point

Target Market:

  • Glock guy on a budget

  • The guy who needs a rifle style gun as a commuter gun

  • Home defense

  • Range junkie

  • The guy who shops at Tractor Supply or your local Coop that still needs to feed his animals and his firearm.

Features, Benefits, and Specifications of this product:

  • CALIBER: 9MM

  • OPERATING SYSTEM: STRAIGHT BLOWBACK 

  • BARREL LENGTH: 5"

  • BARREL TWIST: 1:10

  • BARREL MATERIAL: 41V50 PREMIUM MATCH GRADE 41v50 BARREL, VACUUM STRESS RELIEVED, MELONITE COATED WITH A HONED CHAMBER

  • MUZZLE DEVICE: MICRO BLAST DIFFUSER

  • MUZZLE THREAD: 1/2 X 28

  • UPPER & LOWER RECEIVER: BILLET AIRCRAFT ALUMINUM TYPE III HARD BLACK ANODIZING 

  • HANDGUARD: 4" M-LOK FREE FLOAT TYPE III HARD BLACK ANNODIZING

  • CHARGING HANDLE: MIL-SPEC CHARGING HANDLE IN REAR, FM 4 POSITION IN FRONT

  • PISTOL GRIP: THRIL

  • BUFFER: 9.4 OZ FM RECOIL MITIGATION BUFFER

  • BUFFER TUBE: A5  

  • BRACE: INTEGRATED FOLDING ADAPTER W/ SBA3

  • TRIGGER: CURVED MIL-SPEC 

  • CONTROLS: AMBIDEXTROUS 

  • LENGTH (INCHES): 21" (14" Folded)

  • WEIGHT (LBS): 4lbs 13oz

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

Black, remember this is a working man's gun. 

What others are saying?:

Nothing found as of publishing, at least on the VFM-9

Link to other reviews:

Blowback9 on YouTube 

PewPew Tactical 

Price point:

MSRP =  $599 - $779

Retail = Same

I need it now! Availability:

Foxtrot Mike and use code “GGR” for 10% off

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Recoil Mitigation Buffer

  • Zero bolt bounce

  • Fully Ambidextrous

  • AR Trigger compatibility

Cons:

  • I really couldn't find one

Score: 9.00 Amazing

,

RECOVER TACTICAL S-PRO PISTOL STABILIZER CONVERSION KIT

,

RECOVER TACTICAL S-PRO PISTOL STABILIZER

CONVERSION KIT REVIEW

  What Is the S-PRO? The S-PRO is a modular pistol stabilizer/conversion chassis that turns a standard pistol into a more stable, controllable, and customizable platform without permanent modifications. It ships in a brace configuration and can quickly convert to a buttstock for a more rifle-like setup by removing the brace attachment. 

  It is designed to fit numerous Glock pistols, Canik and PDP. The Recover Tactical S-PRO is a major jump in build quality and modularity over the original 20/20 series. (I took this from someone off the net)  While the 20/20 was a budget-friendly polymer brace, the S-PRO moves into the "prosumer" space with a metal spine and a much more rigid design. The S-PRO is best described as a modular PDW chassis. It bridges the gap between a standard handgun and a dedicated Pistol Caliber Carbine (PCC). If you own multiple pistols (Glock, Walther, Canik) and want one high-quality system to stabilize them all, the S-PRO is currently one of the most cost-effective ways to do it. 

  I first saw the S-Pro at GunCon 2025 in Cleveland, Ohio. I was familiar with their 20/20 but I liked this one much better. It seemed simple, rugged and has a nice spring out stabilizing brace. I talked to the guys there and they sent me one in for review. I was excited to get it, because pcc and chassis systems are all the rage right now. Plus from the price standpoint, it is a lot cheaper than most other systems in this price range. I can attest to this after my last build of a chassis system pistol build. 

  This system is a no tools needed to assemble. It basically attaches to the front rail and trigger guard. It has a hinged front plate that closes around the front of the frame and trigger guard. This is connected to your stabilizing brace. The item that launches out the back. It then has a blast shield that slides over the bottom of the main piece and the folding latch. It has a button that locks it all in together. Lastly is the front spare mag holder, fore grip or whatever you want to call it. It too has a button to take it on and off. The mag holder has a large button that is on the edge that sorta wraps around, when pressed you can take your spare mag out. The rear of the pistol itself you have to remove the rear sight to place a simple snap in cocking handle on the rear of the slide to charge it. I was not really happy with this part, my thinking was if I wanted to carry it, as just a plain handgun, I would have to replace the rear sight and go to the range to sight it back in. The main chassis has a metal frame covered with the matching polymer that extends to the rear of the firearm. In this metal frame is a heck of a spring that shoots a metal bar out the back that has the tailhook brace on it. The brace has an adjustable cheek weld that is held in by a single screw. Putting the tail hook in was the only screwing that needed to be done.

  Once assembled I placed a green dot STD closed emitter from Atibal on top. This is the only way you can sight because of the height of your head once placed down on the brace. It does give it some extra height but we have to see what we are shooting at. It has a single sling QD hole on the right side of the frame. I did carry this at the range and in the field and it was almost like it wasn't there. 

  At the range I found it easier to hold the pistol in my right hand and reach over to engage the button to release to brace. It will shoot out into place unless something gets in its way to stop it. Then you can give it a tug or shove it back in and try the button again. With practice you will have it shooting straight out into place and not hitting it on anything. Racking the slide was simple, just grab the dog ear and give it a yank back and you're in business. I did find it difficult to do with gloves on so I opted to do it bare handed. There is some texture on the ear that is pleasant on the fingers. I would like to see a redesign in the cocking ear to keep the rear sight and be larger to get a better hold on it. 

  Shooting the S-Pro was straight forward, just rest your cheek on the pad and go to work. The recoil was minimal. Reloads will take a bit to get used to because grabbing the mag from the front carrier is not in my muscle memory yet. The mag is not drop free and will take a bit of force to get it out. 

  Overall the Recover Tactical S-Pro is a great platform if someone is looking to be more stable and have 3 points of contact on the pistol. With the green dot I was shooting at 25 and 50 yards and hitting a man sized target with no problem. I think if someone picked up a police trade in glock and wanted to have a PCC, truck gun or a bag gun, this is a viable option. The S-Pro provides great contact, ease of use and you already know how reliable your pistol is. 

Firearms Insider Reviews - Key Points

Claim to Fame:

3 points of contact, Durable, Duty grade, No tools to install, Modular with other frames and brands of pistols

Target Market:

Any one looking for a compact 9mm that will give you extra range

Features, Benefits, and Specifications of this product:

  • Metal frame

  • MLOK-compatible front shroud

  • Push button release spring loaded stabilizer/buttstock

  • Modular unit – swap out adapters to use the same platform for different pistols

  • No tools are required to install

  • Compatible with high-profile slide-mounted optics

  • More secure platform to shoot from

  • Makes optic use easier

  • Faster follow up shots

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

Numerous different colors

What others are saying;

  • Just arrived, easy to put together and feels solid.

  • Excellent platform

  • So much better than expected and makes shooting more fun.

Link to other reviews:

Tiberious Gib on YouTube

Price point:

MSRP = $299.95

Retail = $299.95 

I need it now! Availability:

Recover Tactical or Optics Planet

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • No tools needed to put together

  • 3 points of contact

  • Ease of use

Cons:

  • Have to remove the rear sight to assemble

Score: 8.00 Great 

,

Aimwin PE330

,

Aimwin PE330

Review

  Enclosed micro red dots are not a new thing. However, Aimwin is a fairly new company in the optics market. One of their newest editions is the PE330 enclosed red dot. The PE330 red dot comes with an enhanced feature set and mounts directly to RMSc style footprints. 

  As mentioned, the Aimwin PE330 is an enclosed emitter style red dot optic. This gives the PE330 some advantages over open emitter style red dots. It protects the internals from dust, water, and any other debris. It also makes the lenses easier to clean. Living where I live, having an enclosed red dot is a big advantage because of the rain we get in Oregon. The water doesn’t get trapped inside the lens like on an open emitter style. So if you need to wipe the water off, it is just a simple wipe, not a scrub and soak. 

  The exterior of the Aimwin PE330 is 6061 aluminum. 6061 style aluminum seems fine for this type of optic. The hard anodized aluminum exterior helps to make the PE330 pretty durable. The PE330 also is water resistant, nothing is water proof. Aimwin specs it out as IPX7, which is submerged at 1 meter for a 30 minute time frame. This is pretty standard on these styles of red dots. It didn’t leak on me, but I also didn’t swim with it on.

  When dealing with micro red dots, the mounting footprint is super important. The Aimwin PE330 uses an industry standard RMSc footprint. This footprint is what a lot of micro compact pistols use for direct mounting to the slide. Oddly enough, the RMSc footprint is also used on some 1911 and 2011 full size pistols. Having that industry standard footprint really makes the PE330 standout for mounting on various styles of pistols. Included with the optic is a bunch of various size mounting screws. So finding the correct screw for your mounting surface is super easy. I always like it when companies put in those extra mounting screws, that way I don’t have to hunt some down in my screw bin.

  When it comes to powering the PE330, Aimwin uses a CR1620 battery. This is a slightly thinner battery than the CR1632, which is used in a lot of RMSc footprint red dots. Aimwin states a 20,000 hour battery life. So even though it isn’t as long as others, it is still plenty. Aimwin also designed the PE330 with a side load battery. So when you do change that battery, it is super easy to do and will not affect your zero. Something I haven’t seen with other red dots is that Aimwin includes extra battery tray screws. I will probably lose the extra screws before I actually need to replace one, but they are there just in case.

  The PE330 isn’t just a red dot, it is a multi-reticle system. It includes a 3 MOA dot and a 40 MOA circle. You can combine these into a dot only, circle dot, or just a circle. To do this all you have to do is hold down the brightness up button for a few seconds. For brightness adjustment, there is a soft touch pad on the left side of the optic with + and - labels. The PE330 has 11 brightness levels. The lowest 2 are night vision compatible, while the other 9 are daylight bright. To adjust the position of the reticle, the PE330 uses a small standard screwdriver. It also has actual clicks for adjustment, not just the turn and guess style. Each click is 1.5 MOA. 

  Aimwin has their auto on feature called “AIM Awake”. As one can guess, this is Aimwin’s shake awake feature. After a few minutes of not being moved, the PE330 will go into a standby mode. When movement is detected, the dot automatically turns back on at the same brightness level it was adjusted to. This feature gives more battery life to the optic. In today's red dot market, every optic should have this if it uses a battery. I am glad Aimwin includes the Aim Awake feature. 

  For the review, I mounted the Aimwin PE330 on a Tisas 1911 Double Stack. The window size of 23 x 16 mm worked well on this pistol. It is not the largest window, but it was very useful. I also noticed that the dot is very clear. Some of that is probably due to the glass used on the optic. I was pleasantly surprised at how clear the glass was. I couldn’t notice any color change or tint to it. Because the PE330 is a little wider than smaller RMSc red dots, it does hang over the sides of the slide. It is definitely noticeable, but does not hurt anything at all. That is a price you have to pay for a larger’ish size micro red dot on a thin 1911 slide. I don’t really care for the 1.5 MOA adjustment range. Yes it works, but I would like a finer adjustment, maybe something like a 1 MOA adjustment. With that said, I didn’t have any problems sighting in the pistol. I also haven’t had any problems with the sight itself, even with a ton of rounds being shot for the Tisas review itself.

  Anyone looking for a reasonably priced, enclosed, micro red dot should go take a look at the Aimwin PE330. It uses that industry standard RMSc footprint for mounting and has a side load battery. The red dot is very clear on whatever reticle option you choose, may it be a dot or a circle. Plus it is priced right for anyone. From beginners just getting into the red dot market, or experts just needing another dot, the Aimwin PE330 might be the one you're looking for.

Firearms Insider Reviews - Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Enclosed RMSc footprint red dot with multi reticles

Target Market:

Those wanting an enclosed red dot for their pistols

Features, Benefits, and Specifications of this product:

  • Weight: 1.16 ounces

  • Dimensions: 1.61 × 1.2 × 0.98 in (40.8x30.6x25mm)

  • Dot Size: 3 MOA - 40 MOA

  • Adjustment per Click: 1.5 MOA

  • Windage & Elevation Travel Range: ±40 MOA, (total range 80 MOA)

  • Battery: CR1620

  • Battery Life: Medium brightness level - 20000h

  • Brightness Settings: 9 Daylight Levels, 2 Night Vision Levels

  • Window Size: 23 x 16mm(0.91" x 0.63")

  • Housing Material: A6061-T6

  • Hard-anodized

  • Operating Temperature: -30°C~60°C（-22°F to 140°F）

  • Water Resistance: IPX7

  • Footprint: RMS-C

  • Aim Awake auto on/off

  • Side load battery

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

None

What others are saying?:

5 out of 5 stars on Amazon

Great deal

I’ve tried a fair number of pistol red dots over the years, and I picked up the PE330 mainly to see how it would hold up as an enclosed optic. After putting some rounds through it, it’s been solid and predictable, which is really what I want from a handgun optic.

The enclosed emitter definitely helps when conditions aren’t perfect. Dust and debris haven’t been an issue, and the sight picture stays usable without needing constant attention. The glass looks good overall, with no distracting distortion, and once it’s zeroed, parallax hasn’t been noticeable in real shooting.

The reticle setup makes sense. The larger circle helps you find the dot faster, especially when drawing or moving between targets, while the center dot still gives you enough precision for slower, more deliberate shots. Under recoil, the dot is easy to track and comes back into view naturally, which makes follow-up shots smoother.

Battery life hasn’t been a concern thanks to the motion-activated wake feature, and I haven’t run into any random shutoffs. Mounting it on an RMSc-cut slide was quick and straightforward, and it stayed tight and held zero through multiple range sessions.

All things considered, the PE330 is an easy optic to live with. It does what it’s supposed to do, feels intuitive behind the gun, and works well for regular range use or for shooters getting comfortable with enclosed pistol optics.

Link to other reviews:

Chris from the 740 on YouTube  

Price point:

MSRP = $229.95

Retail = $169.95

I need it now! Availability:

Aimwin Optics or Amazon

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Window size

  • Aim Awake

  • Side load battery

  • Enclosed

  • Reticle options

Cons:

  • Battery Type

  • Battery life

Score: 8.00 Great

Favorite Link: Aimwin PE320 Review

,

Primary Arms SLx 4.5-27x56

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Primary Arms

SLx 4.5-27x56 FFP Review

  Inexpensive, high quality long range optics are starting to become more prevalent in today's market. Primary Arms Optics recently released their SLx 4.5-27x56 first focal plane scope. This thing is a beast, in a good way. It is available with two different ACSS reticles: the Athena BPR MIL Reticle and the Deka G2 Reticle. I received the Deka reticle, which was the one I would have chosen anyways.

  The SLx line of optics from Primary Arms is what I call their “value” line. What that means for the customer is that you get a ton of features for a reasonable price. For instance on this SLx 4.5-27x56 you get an illuminated first focal plane reticle, 34mm tube, finger adjustable turrets, fast focus eye piece, a throw lever, and a zero stop. This line also has some good glass. Because the 4.5-27 is in the SLx line, you do get a scope that might weigh a little more than Primary Arms’ GLx or PLx line, but I expect that in a value line product.

  Primary Arms Optics SLX 4.5-27x56 is loaded with options. I mentioned a few before, but let us get into them more. The 34 mm tube and 56 mm objective lens help to allow more light through the lenses. At lower power, this is not really a problem, but as the magnification increases, light going through the scope to your eye can diminish. So you get a brighter picture than say a 30mm scope with a 50mm objective lens. Another advantage of the 34mm tube is that it allows more elevation and windage adjustments. In the SLx’s case, it allows for 32 MIL’s of adjustment at 100 meters, or about 115 inches. 

  The ACSS DEKA G2 reticle is nice. The Deka is a MIL reticle that has a bunch of features, including ranging. First, it is a crosshair style reticle, no “Christmas tree” style here. I really like this style of reticle because it doesn’t clutter up the viewing space, allowing one to see their target more clearly. The inner part of the reticle has tiny marks every 0.1 MIL. Slightly larger ones at 0.5 MIL’s, and bracketed “T” marks every MIL. Then every 2 MIL mark has a number out to 10 MIL’s. So 2,4,6,8, and 10 are marked with those numbers. This applies to both windage and elevation. This marked portion of the reticle is the illuminated section, including the center 0.1 MIL aiming dot. The center dot gives you a really accurate aiming point. If you want to only see the illuminated part of the reticle, you are limited to about 15x magnification. At the full 27x, you see about 14 MIL’s of the reticle, 7 on each side of the aiming dot. After the 10 MIL mark, you get a solid line with 20, 30, and 40 MIL marks. This outer portion is not illuminated. The top portion of the reticle has some ranging lines, which are also illuminated. These are used to determine the approximate range of a 5 foot 7 inch tall, and/or a 19 inch wide target. The ranging marks start at 300 meters and go out to 1000 meters. I have one minor complaint about the reticle, I would like the stadia line, that has the marks on it, to be smaller than 0.1 MIL. Maybe something like 0.05 MILs. Mainly because this line just holds the markings, which are 0.1 MIL wide. Other than that, I really do like the configuration of the ACSS DEKA reticle.

  Since the reticle just was explained, now maybe we should adjust it to our rifle. The turrets on the SLx 4.5-27 are fairly large and nicely textured. This makes them easy to adjust with or without gloves. The clicks are quite good for being in the SLx line. They are positive with very little “mush” to them. These turrets also adjust the optic in 0.1 MIL increments. The windage turret is capped, but it can be set to a zero after sighting in the rifle. This windage turret also has right and left markings on it. So once you set the zero, if you need the bullet to go left 1 MIL’s, you just turn it to “1L”, or “1R” if needing to move the impact to the right. The elevation turret is one place the SLx really shines. It is a large target style with an adjustable zero stop. Having that zero stop makes it super easy to adjust the optic back to its base zero. One revolution on the elevation knob is also 10 MIL’s of adjustment, making range adjustments easier to calculate. If you don’t like the target style elevation turret, Primary Arms also supplies a standard height turret. Both of these turrets have markings on them, neither one is capped. On the left side of the optic are the parallax and brightness knobs. Both have decent texturing. The parallax knob turns easily, even if it is harder to get clear at longer ranges. The brightness knob turns harder, but has positive detents for the 6 brightness settings. It also has “off” positions in between each numbered “on” position. Brightness is really good, but it is not daylight bright illumination. Unless it was a really dark day, I didn’t really use the illumination. 

  I was impressed with the SLx 4.5-27’s clarity. At lower power levels, up to about 20x, it is super clear and bright. Okay, it is pretty bright all through the magnification range. When you get up to about 25x, the clarity seems to drop a tiny bit. It is still usable at 27x, you just notice it. I was still able to see, and hit targets at 1000 yards without any problems. Okay, seeing them yes, hitting them was more of a challenge. But that was not the optics fault. Part of the reason the clarity drops off at long range is due to the touchy parallax adjustment. It adjusts fine at 100-500 yards, but as the magnification and range increases, it is harder to adjust to get a clear picture. It can be adjusted for a clear picture, it just takes very small movements. Don’t let these complaints scare you off, the SLx 4.5-27 is still a very capable optic out to 1000 yards and beyond.

Stump is approximately 1100 yards, Optic is at maximum power (27x)

  I ended up mounting the SLx 4.5-27x56 on my Bergara .308, which sits in an MDT chassis. The rifle already has a 20 MOA rail to mount an optic on. This gives me extra adjustment to use. Because of this, with the SLx 4.5-27, I get a full 20 MILs of “up” elevation adjustment. This lets me dial out to a range of about 1400 yards, which is about 200 more than I will ever shoot this rifle. I shot this optic out to 1100 yards. That is how I know that the parallax adjustment gets really touchy. It takes a bit to get a clear picture at that range, but it is doable. The turret adjustments are nice and make it easy to adjust to whatever range you are shooting at. The SLx 4.5-27 would make a great entry level PRS or long range scope. It did everything I needed it to and more.

  If you are looking for that affordable, quality, long range optic, the Primary Arms SLx-4.5-27x56 would be a good choice. It has decent clarity and exceptional brightness. Once it is adjusted, it can easily see targets at 1000 yards and beyond. It also has 2 different reticle options, a Christmas tree style and the DEKA reviewed here, so you can get the style you want. If you are looking at getting into long range shooting, or just need a good high power magnified optic, go check out the SLx 4.5-27x56.

Firearms Insider Reviews - Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Quality long range optic at value price

Target Market:

Those wanting a long range, clear optic that doesn’t beat you up on price. Also entry level long range shooters

Features, Benefits, and Specifications of this product:

  • Battery Type: CR2032 3V Lithium Coin

  • Click Value: 0.1 Mil

  • Focal Plane: First Focal Plane

  • Illuminated: Partial Red Illumination

  • Magnification: 4.5X - 27X

  • Mount Compatibility: 34mm

  • Reticle: ACSS DEKA G2 Mil 

  • Total Elevation Adjustment: 32 MIL

  • Turret Features: Tactical / Target Profile, Finger Adjustable

  • Lifetime Warranty

  • Reticle stop

  • Field Of View @ 100yds: Low: 26.69 ft. / High: 4.46 ft.

  • Length: 13.78 in

  • Eye Relief: 4 in

  • Weight: 32.6 oz.

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

Athena BPR Mil Reticle    

What others are saying?:

5 out 5 star from Texan at OpticsPlanet.com

Scope is super clear. A great value for the money. My second scope of this line.

Link to other reviews:

Nothing found as of publishing

Price point:

MSRP = $549.99

Retail = Same

I need it now! Availability:

Primary Arms, Optics Planet, or your local gun store

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Reticle choice

  • Clear and bright glass

  • Target turrets

  • Illuminated reticle

  • Zero stop

  • Price

Cons:

  • Parallax adjustment is touchy

  • Heavy

Score: 8.00 Great

Favorite Link:  Primary Arms GLx MD-21 Review 

,

Derya DY9 Island

,

Derya DY9 Island

Review

  Derya Arms established manufacturing operations in Jacksonville, Florida. While the company has its origins in Turkey, the DY9 models are now produced in the U.S. to support the American market, though some components or older versions are still made in the home country. The Jacksonville facility has been dedicated for manufacturing of the DY9 and DY9 Island.

  Now that we have where the Derya is made, let’s talk about what it is. The DY9 is a Glock Gen 3 clone of the G19. Before we all say it’s just another clone, let’s take a look at some of its features.

  • It is a striker fired 9mm

  • Factory 10 or 15 round magazines 

  • 1.81 pounds 

  • Barrel length 3.86”

  • Overall length 6.9”

  • Height 4.56”

  • Width 1.16”

  • Direct mount optic for RMR footprint 

  • Truglo green sights 

  Now that the specs are out of the way, we see it is a Gen 3 Glock clone with a few features right off the bat that are better. This includes the optic mounting and better sights than a standard Glock. It has numerous deep cut outs on the sides of the slide that make gripping it very easy, with bare hands or gloves. It has straight horizontal lines with some angled lines on the grip that appear to be part of the Derya logo on the grip panels. The backstrap and the front strap are basically the same way. It makes for a good feel in the hand. The grip angle is not listed anywhere on the internet as I could find. From shooting it myself it seems to have a unique angle that is not a Glock. It does come with 3 backstraps and 2 magazines that are Glock type but with their baseplate on it. It all came in a nice soft side carry case stuffed into an ammo can. I thought this was a nice touch. 

  Let's talk about how it shot, it shot like a Glock. Well that would definitely be a lie. The grip angle and texture makes shooting it second nature. It has the undercut already on the trigger guard so no Glock knuckle. I mounted a Primary Arms RS-10R red dot on it. Mounting was easy with supplied hardware. After sighting it at around the 7 yard mark, I started shooting for accuracy after getting used to the trigger. It is like a normal striker fired trigger. The weight was around 5lbs. This is where it all fell in place. The recoil was not like a 9mm at all. It was a lot milder, it did not have the flip or muzzle rise of a normal firearm of the size. So what kind of witchcraft are they using? 

  It's an island barrel system. This is seen mainly on high end 2011’s or competition guns. It is a raised central section on the barrel that creates an island. Hence the name. The slide gets to move on more of the barrel’s surface. The barrel has ports in it that help with recoil and muzzle rise. It is meant to give faster recoil and faster cycling time, which improves accuracy. 

  I can’t tell you the exact percentage that it helped, but it was enough that it is noticeable. The slide runs smooth, the firearm sets nicely in the hand and it is a natural pointer. I do have two complaints about the pistol. One is that it is a bit wider than a Glock, so trying to find a holster to fit was not happening. I didn't want to take a heat gun to one of my good holsters just yet. I did find a paddle holster for it on Amazon. It is ok but I am not a paddle holster fan. The second is the mag well. It is stylish and the factory mags have an angled base pad on them to go with the angle of the well. Factory Glock mags and Magpul mags fit, but they will stick out some taking away from the lines of the pistol. Other than that I can not give it a bad review. If you are looking for an American made Glock Clone, that has all the bells and Whistles on it, then the Derya DY9 Island might be your gun. They do have the standard version that is not an island barrel system. You can buy it on the cheap and add the island system later on if you want. 

Firearms Insider Reviews - Key Points

Claim to Fame:

An affordable American made 9 mm pistol that has its roots in Turkey, it blends Glock 19 style ergonomics with an island compensated barrel for flatter shooting and less recoil.

Parts compatibility from other clones

A standard 1913 pic rail.

Target Market:

Those looking for a reliable and budget friendly compensated firearm.

Features, Benefits, and Specifications of this product:

  • Island Comp Barrel system

  • Caliber: 9MM

  • Sights: Truglo Green

  • Capacity: 10 or 15 rds

  • Grip Type: Polymer with changeable back straps

  • Weight: 1.81 lbs

  • Action Type: Striker Fired

  • Barrel Length: 3.86"

  • Finish: Black Melonite

  • Overall Length: 6.9"

  • Overall Width: 1.16"

  • MD Compliant: Yes

  • Overall Height: 4.56”

  • RMR direct mounting system

  • Smooth operation

  • Flat shooting

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

Many different colors and finishes.

Link to other reviews:

Athlon Outdoors 

Price point:

MSRP = $599 

Retail = $499

I need it now! Availability:

BattleHawk Armory,  Classic firearms, or your local gun store

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Great shooting

  • Simple operation

  • Glock like 

Cons:

  • Holsters are hard to find

  • Angle of the mag well

Score: 8.00 Great 

,

Tisas 1911 Duty B9R DS

,

Tisas 1911 Double Stack (2011)

Review

  In the world of double stack 1911 style pistols, or 2011’s as some people call them, there are a ton to choose from. Their prices range anywhere from about $500 up to the $5000'nds. Tisas started making their 1911 double stacks a few years ago. These are value priced, 9mm 2011 style pistols that punch above their price range. Tisas has both a carry and full size version. Since I am not carrying a 2011 style pistol, I opted for the Tisas 1911 Duty B9R Double Stack, which is their full size 5” version.

  The first thing you notice, when you pull the Tisas 1911 DS out of the box, is all the upgrades it has. To start with, the B9R uses a standard style 2011 polymer grip frame with a rail. This means that it is compatible with most aftermarket grip frames available for 2011 style pistols, including metal frames. This frame has a built-in magazine well and some texture around the grip, as do most of these style frames. Being a 1911 style pistol, there is also a high ride, extended beavertail grip safety with a memory bump. Then there is the slightly extended, ambidextrous, thumb safety. This safety has fine lines on it for better grip. The hammer is a commander-ish style. Then there is an extended magazine release. But somehow, the mag release is not checkered or lined, which I did not care for. All of that is followed by a bull barrel and one piece guide rod. The B9R is also cut for a RMSc footprint optic. So as you can see, this pistol has a ton of upgrades already on it.

  Now that we have the base features out of the way, I will get into them a little deeper starting with the slide. The slide on the Tisas B9R resembles any 1911 slide. It has a curved top reminiscent of old school 1911’s. But that is where it stops. Everything else is new school. Tisas put front and rear, angled, cocking serrations on it. These serrations are really nice and grippy so you will have no problems racking the slide. The muzzle end is cut slightly narrower, mainly for looks, because I can’t see any other reason for it. Sitting on top of the slide is a nice set of iron sights. The front is fiber optic and the rear is blackout serrated. The sight picture is nice. Then Tisas cuts the slide for an RMSc style optic. This cut is deep, so much so that the factory iron sights will co-witness with the optic of your choice. 

  The Tisas’ 2011 style frame is nice. Yes, it has a few minor setbacks, but not everything can be perfect in a $800 2011 ish pistol. The only real setback I found is the smoothness of the grip. The texture Tisas uses is a little lacking. I’m not carrying the B9R next to my skin, so give me some more texture. Even the front and rear checkering needs to be deeper. Tisas does offer a “Coarse” grip module, which I may be checking out. The only other disappointment in the B9R’s frame is the non textured magazine release. Please add some texture. The grip also has a small magazine well built into it. It works well enough, but if you are using the B9R for competition, you may want to add a larger one. Everything else on the grip is great. The Tisas has a rail for lights. Both safeties, the grip and the ambidextrous thumb safety, are nice. The grip safety has a memory bump to help always depress it. The thumb safety has a nice texture and size to it. The B9R also has a squared trigger guard similar to most 2011 style frames. 

  Since the Tisas B9R is a 1911 style pistol, we have to talk about the trigger. Tisas uses a flat style trigger on the B9R. It appears to be around “medium” length which works well for this pistol. The trigger broke around 5.5 pounds when I first received the B9R. It has a little take up, maybe 0.100 inch maximum. Then it breaks clean with a little bit of over-travel. It is definitely everything a typical 1911 trigger is. After some use, the trigger breaks about 5 pounds now. The trigger is non-adjustable. For a base model 2011 style pistol, the trigger is better than I expected. 

  The Tisas Duty B9R DS uses industry standard magazines. Any 2011 pattern magazine will work. Anything from the cheaper $25 magazines, up to the elite $100 ones, they all work. The B9R comes with 2 high quality, flush fit, 17 round magazines. I have used a bunch of different magazines, including some 26 round ones. All have run flawlessly in the B9R.

  I found the Tisas 1911 DS to be quite accurate. Okay, I didn’t put it in a rest at 25 yards, but I can consistently hit the headbox of a USPSA target at that range. At 7 yards I can get a 1”, 10 shot, round ragged hole. This accuracy has to be from the fact that Tisas uses a bushingless bull barrel in the B9R. They also use a 1 piece guide rod. Of course, the guide rod does make disassembly of the B9R a little more complicated, but nothing terrible. I was pleasantly surprised at how accurate the Tisas was out of the box.

  Here are some of my thoughts on the Tisas B9R. It is great for the price point it is at. I got great accuracy from the factory bull barrel. It uses standard 2011 pattern magazines, which all worked flawlessly. I have had zero malfunctions in the 956 rounds I have shot through it. That was using about 7 different brands and weights of 9mm ammunition. Are there things that bother me? Yes. The iron sight cuts use 2 different styles. The rear is a Glock style dovetail, but the front is a Tisas dovetail. So good luck getting aftermarket iron sights that work together. But since I expect that most people will put an optic on it, and it is cut for a Holosun K / RMSc footprint, this doesn’t matter too much. I did like the iron sight picture, it gave me light on both sides of the post as opposed to other sight pictures that basically give you no light on the sides of the post. I ended up mounting an Aimwin PE330 red dot on it. Originally I had one of the Primary Arms Classic series on it, but the PE330 came in and has a larger window. Speaking of optics, I was informed, by a friend, that if you use one of the super large window optics like the Gideon Judge XL, you will need a small riser plate so that the optics window doesn’t hit the top of the slide. SDS Arms has this spacer, but it is not listed on their website. I was impressed with how well the B9R felt while shooting it. It is not as smooth as a $2500 2011. But, after about the first 200 rounds, the slide smoothed up nicely and still has a fairly tight slide to frame fit. Probably my most favorite aspect of the Tisas B9R is that it has aftermarket parts compatibility with most 2011 style pistols. So if you want to upgrade the trigger, or that non-textured mag release, you can.

  The Tisas B9R has proved itself to be a fantastic pistol. With all its extras and the way it performs, you can’t go wrong. If you are looking at getting into the double stack 1911 game, I don’t think you can go wrong with the Tisas Duty B9R DS. It performed fantastic for me, with great accuracy and function, all at a great price. Definitely go look at the Tisas firearms and see what you think. They used to be imported by SDS Arms and Tisas’ are made in Turkey, but don’t let that scare you away from a great pistol.

Firearms Insider Reviews - Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Value priced 2011 style firearm that uses machined parts, 2011 style magazines, has a bull barrel, and is optics ready

Target Market:

Those wanting a 1911 double stack that doesn’t cost a fortune, but still has tons of features

Features, Benefits, and Specifications of this product:

  • Forged Steel Frame & Slide

  • Polymer grip

  • 70 Series + Colt/STI® 2011 Compatible

  • Target‑Crowned Bull Barrel

  • Skeletonized Hammer & Trigger

  • Optic‑Ready Co‑Witness Sights

  • Caliber: 9MM

  • Frame/Receiver - Slide Finish: Cerakote

  • Sights: Fixed - Black Rear - White Dot Front

  • Optics Ready/Cut: Holosun K - RMSc

  • Capacity (2 Included Mags): 17 + 1

  • Barrel Length: 5"

  • Barrel Finish: QPQ Tenifer

  • OAL: 8.6"

  • Height: 5.7"

  • Width: 1.5"

  • Weight: 32.5 oz unloaded

  • Safety: Ambidextrous thumb & grip safeties

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

Carry Version     

What others are saying?:

5 out of 5 Stars at Battle Hawk Armory   

Benjamin A.

Fantastic Budget "2011" So far this has been a great purchase for the price. Currently at 750 rounds 100% flawless

Link to other reviews:

The Truth About Guns  

Price point:

MSRP = $879.88

Retail = $650 - $750

I need it now! Availability:

Battle Hawk Armory, Guns.com, Primary Arms, or your local dealer

Our Rating: 

Pros:

  • Price

  • Uses 2011 parts and magazines

  • Shoots fantastic

  • Optics ready

  • Bull barrel

  • Light rail

  • Decent trigger

  • Ambi safety

Cons:

  • Grip needs more texture

  • Smooth magazine release

  • Hard to disassemble 

Score: 8.50 Great

Favorite Link:  AimWin PE320 Review 

,

Frytech Magnetic Buffer

,

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

,

SecureIt Fast Box 36D

,

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    

,

TriStar KR22

,

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

,

Gritr Tactical Range Bag

,

Gritr Gear

Tactical Range Bag

Review

  Everyone needs a good range bag. Some people want smaller ones, and some people want larger ones. Gritr Gear has their Tactical Range Bag that falls somewhere in between the two sizes. So you get a medium sized range bag, with features that can turn it into a larger or smaller range bag.

  The Gritr Tactical Range Bag is really a do all bag. In general, it starts as a 18 inch x 12 inch x 10 inch exterior size. Inside the main compartment is a removable tote, a removable mat, and a medical pouch. On each side are large zipper compartments. On one end is another zipper compartment. On the other end is an open pouch. The main compartment is then covered by a highly velcroed dual zipper flap. Gritr offers the bag in a multitude of colors and patterns. I chose the Green Topo pattern, even though I was torn between it and Splatter.

 I will explain the main compartment of the Tactical Range Bag first. Especially since it is where you end up throwing everything into. The size of the main compartment is approximately 14 x 9 x 9 inches. It sounds small, but you can fit a lot of stuff in there. On the bottom of the main compartment is a hard floor mat. This mat gives the bag a hard bottom but is also removable. Once removed, the floor mat can then be unfolded to a 28 x 14.25 inch size. Because it unfolds, you now have a nice place to set pistols and gear on a shooting bench. You could also use it as an interim cleaning mat. I like it for taking pictures of pistols and gear that I am doing reviews on. The mat has the same topo pattern as the exterior of the range bag. The dual zippered flap that covers the main compartment has hook and loop all over it, for your patches of course. This feature gives you quick access to whatever is in the main compartment. The dual zippers are also tied together with a handle strap, making opening and closing it fairly easy with one hand. This main compartment is very useful for anything you want to throw in it.

  Inside that main compartment is something even more useful. That item is a removable Tote bag. It is made to just rest inside the main compartment. Yes, it does take up most of the main compartment, but you won’t care because it is so useful. It measures 12 x 7 x 8 inches and has some decent, soft style, carry handles. The tote is open top with a hard floor. Built into the sides of the tote bag are 2 padded pistol bags. Just unzip either of them and you can drop a full size pistol into them. Throw some ammo boxes inside the tote and you are ready to go. Because of the tote, you can just grab it instead of the whole range bag. So if you are at a match, or anywhere else, and don’t want to carry the whole bag, you can just grab the tote and go. Put the pistol on one side, and mags in the other, and your ammo resting on the bottom. The only down side to the tote is that it does take up space in the main compartment. I usually just put the tote in the main compartment and nothing else. Having the built in pistol bags is super useful.

  Gritr throws in a medical pouch with the Tactical range bag. It is a fairly decent med pouch having pockets and straps where you need them. The dual zippers unzip to let you open the pouch up flat and quickly. I do wish that Gritr had an option to have the med pouch filled with a trauma kit. Even without it being stocked, I think including a med pouch is pretty cool, especially since any range trip should be accompanied with a good med kit. On a basic level, you could always fill it with something like THIS. I do wish the med pouch had some MOLLE to attach it to the outside of the range bag. But hey, good on Gritr for including it and getting people thinking.

  Back to the outside of the Tactical Range Bag. On each side of the range bag are 2 large zippered compartments, both can fold down flat when open. Inside one of these pockets, there is hook and loop MOLLE up against the bag side. I like that you can attach extra stuff with multiple attachment methods. On the fold down side of this compartment are 2 zippered mesh pockets. I have my stapler in this compartment, with staples in one of the mesh pockets and target tape in the other pocket. The other compartment has one large zippered mesh pocket on the fold down flap side. Then on the side against the bag, there are 3 little pockets. 2 of these have a hook and loop cover flap. The other one is open. I usually put miscellaneous tools, a timer, and rifle mags in this compartment. These side compartments are large enough to fit a ton of extra stuff.

  The Gritr Range Bag has end pockets also. Okay, one is a compartment and one is a literal pouch. The pouch is just an open top pocket with an elastic pull string. I would prefer some way of closing it completely, but maybe I am wrong here. Either way, I use it for my over the ear hearing protection. It does give me easy access to just grab the shooting muffs and slip them on quickly. On the other end is an actual zippered compartment. On the outside of this end compartment is more MOLLE in the bag's color pattern. Inside it is just a compartment, no pockets or anything. I usually have extra hearing protection and eye protection in this compartment. 

  I have been very pleased with the overall size of the Gritr Tactical Range Bag. It has been working out great for me. It is smaller than my old super large one, but big enough that I can fit all my stuff in it. So far the stitching on the seams has held up and looks as good as new. I tend to overload my bags, so this says a lot about the quality of the Gritr bag. The carry handles on the bag work nice, even if they flop into the main compartment when closing it up, but most bags tend to do this. The bag also comes with a removable wide, padded, carry strap. This carry strap is 3.5 inches wide. So it really disperses the weight on your shoulder. Especially if you load the range bag up like I tend to do. Yes, it is adjustable for length too. The Gritr Range bag seems to be the perfect size. If you need only a small bag, just use the Tote by itself. If you need something larger, just attach some stuff to the MOLLE. 

  So, you are looking for a range bag. You don’t want to spend a ton but want a good bag. Go give the Gritr Tactical Range Bag a look. The bag is a great size for range trips, or anything else. The quality is nice. Plus it has all the features you need or want in a range bag. You can even get it on Amazon. Go check it out over at Gritr Gear, who knows, you might find some other good range stuff while you’re there.

Firearms Insider Reviews - Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Range bag that can used for various other things

Target Market:

Shooters, hunters, or anyone needing a decent shoulder bag

Features, Benefits, and Specifications of this product:

  • Material - 500D Nylon

  • Volume - 35.4 liters

  • Dimensions - 18" x 12" x 10"

  • Weight - 6 lbs

  • Removable Inner Tote (12" x 7" x 8")

  • Removable Mat (28" x 14.25")

  • First Aid Kit Pouch

  • Top Patch panel

  • Laser cut molle

  • Heavy-duty zippers

  • Padded carry strap

  • Lifetime warranty 

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

Lots of different designs and colors

What others are saying?:

4 out of 5 stars on Amazon 

Love it, could use a few tweaks

Overall I think this would be a five-star bag with a few tiny tweaks just to make it easier to fit things.

I love the bag overall.

Pros:

- good fabric

- great layout

- wish more manufacturers/importers opted for more interesting fabric colors

Cons:

- no pocket/opening fits ear pro well, they all crush ear pro except if you want it bouncing around inside the bag

- internal pockets really flat when empty so they're getting strained when you put anything inside, limiting what you can put in the bag. They are only single stitched, I bet this will be a problem too. Common design problem I see. Would be much better if they just added a half inch of fabric to make all the pockets a little loose when empty.

- wish either the gap for the inner bag were larger or oriented the other way

- eye pro pockets are a very tight fit

- wish the top zipper were lockable 

Link to other reviews:

The Gear Bunker

Price point:

MSRP = $114.95

Retail = $100

I need it now! Availability:

Gritr Gear or Amazon 

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Great size

  • Molle in good locations 

  • Removable inner tote

  • Hard removable floor/mat

  • Available in non-tactical colors

  • Padded carry strap

Cons:

  • Open end pocket

  • Small inner pockets

Score: 8.50 Great

Favorite Link:  Aimwin PE320 review   

,

SRU SRUNA-22 Bullpup Chassis

,

SRU Precision Sruna-22

10/22 Bullpup Chassis

Review

  If you are into guns, or maybe even if you aren't, you most likely have a Ruger 10/22. If you are like me, you can't leave anything in factory form. To help with that modification addiction, SRU Precision has their SRUNA-22 Bullpup Chassis for the 10/22 rifles and their clones. The Sruna-22 easily converts those 10/22's into a space age bullpup design. 

  I was looking for something different to do with a 10/22 that I had laying around. SRU had asked if I wanted one of the Sruna's to review. After using their SARB-15 AR bullpup kits, and liking it so much, I agreed. The Sruna's come in 3 standard colors: Black, Tan, and OD Green. However they currently have a limited edition White Sruna-22. I decided on the white one because it looks more like a space blaster than the other three. All of the Sruna chassis are the same, except for the color. 

  Now that you have decided on the SRUNA-22, what do you get? To start with, you get a complete exterior chassis that bolts on and around your 10/22. The Sruna separates into, essentially, 3 pieces for assembly and disassembly. You have the main aluminum piece that houses the barrel and receiver. The polymer trigger housing assembly with linkage. Then the rear quick release polymer housing. This rear housing enables you to quickly get to your 10/22’s trigger assembly. Allowing easy access for cleaning and maintenance. 

  The main aluminum housing of the SRUNA is where a lot of the utilitarian features come from. This is the section of the chassis that houses the barrel and receiver. One nice feature on the Sruna is that it will work with almost any 10/22 receiver. This includes billet machined as well as standard style 10/22 receivers. This also includes ones with or without a top pic rail. Plus it works with left hand receivers too. This housing also features a full raised top rail for mounting optics or sights on. I found using standard AR 1.5” mounts put an optic at just the right height. The Sruna chassis does drop down a little where your cheek rests. It also has a padded sticker that makes it more comfortable for your cheek. At the front are 5 M-Lok slots located at each of the 3, 6, and 9 o’clock positions. These are useful for mounting whatever. SRU also gave the Sruna 2 M-Lok slots, on 45’s, at the very rear of the chassis. Mainly so one can attach something like a QD sling mount. The top housing also has various cut outs to save weight and make it look “cool”. Warning, if you use any barrel length, or combination of muzzle devices and barrel, shorter than 17 inches, the muzzle will be inside the cut outs and M-Lok slots. I am running a 16” Shaw barrel in this one, and you can see in the pictures that it is just a wee bit short.

  The trigger housing section of the SRUNA-22 is what makes this a really good bullpup chassis. SRU uses a sturdy trigger linkage system. This linkage system doesn’t flex much. That gives the user a really decent feeling trigger. The trigger housing system also includes a new trigger and safety. The safety allows you to keep the 10/22’s original push button safety on “fire”, because the Sruna trigger’s safety keeps the trigger from moving. The trigger housing has an extremely large trigger guard that houses SRU’s designed trigger. It is a flat polymer AR style trigger shoe with texture. I like the SRU trigger. The Sruna also uses an AR style safety. It comes supplied with a polymer one that matches the trigger’s style. I switched it out for a normal AR style one. So yes, the Sruna chassis will take most, if not all, AR style safeties. Including ambidextrous and different lever styles. It will also take a number of different style AR trigger shoes. Not drop in style, but the standard style, and just the trigger. Lastly, the Sruna’s trigger housing needs a grip. You have to supply the grip, but any AR style grip will work. I’ve had 3 different styles on this one. I ended up with a fairly vertical grip from Black Collar Arms. The vertical grip just seems to work better for me.

  On the bottom rear of the SRUNA chassis is the quick release section. This section slides over your 10/22’s trigger housing and the Sruna’s trigger linkage. It has a quick release pin at the bottom rear. Just remove this pin and you can slide this piece down and off. Be careful, because the trigger pin might fall out of the linkage. It also houses the rear buttpad and spacers. When it is off, you have access to the original 10/22’s trigger housing so you can remove the whole thing for cleaning. The quick release housing goes on and off smoothly. It does have a little bit of misalignment with the trigger housing when installed. This doesn’t affect anything, it just looks a tiny bit odd.

  The SRUNA chassis also has a few adjustment screws. I thought I would mention these as they align your barrel and receiver with the chassis. In the Sruna kit are these tiny set-screws. There are places on the chassis to install these. They slightly push on the 10/22’s receiver at the front, back, and bottom for alignment. They also help keep the receiver tight in the chassis. I just snugged them down and everything worked fine, I didn’t see any mis-alignment that needed adjusting on this one.

  The SRUNA-22 bullpup chassis is fun. It shortens up a 10/22 and moves the weight toward the rear. This makes it easier to support because the bulk of the weight is between your hand and your shoulder. It also makes it swing faster between targets. I put a bunch of rounds through it and it does have a few flaws, but they are minor. If you run a larger charging handle on your 10/22, it may interfere with the Sruna chassis’ ejection port cutout. The stock charging handle works fine, but it sits in a little farther, making it harder to use. One with a longer handle, but similar profile should work best. I filed down a larger round handle to fit. The other flaw is that the return spring for the trigger linkage adds close to 1.5 pounds to the trigger pull weight. So it makes a good trigger not quite as good. I also wasn't keen on the chassis pieces not lining up. Now for good stuff. The accuracy out of the Sruna is just as good as your 10/22 was before sticking it in the Sruna. This chassis also takes some AR parts, making it customizable to some extent. I enjoyed my experience shooting the Sruna, plus it looks awesome. 

  If you are in the market for something different in the 10/22 world, the SRU SRUNA-22 Bullpup Chassis might be worth looking into. It does everything a bullpup should do, like shortening the overall length while still giving performance. It doesn't add a bunch of weight and it is just something you don't see everyday. Head on over to SRU Precision and check out the SRUNA-22 kit. 

Firearms Insider Reviews - Key Points

Claim to Fame:

10/22 bullpup chassis system 

Target Market:

Anyone wanting a bullpup style 10/22

Features, Benefits, and Specifications of this product:

  • Compatible with all 10/22 variants except take down version

  • M-Lok slots at 3, 6, & 9 o’clock

  • Full top rail

  • Overall Length: 26.3” - 26.7” (With an additional butt pad, extends to 27.1”)

  • Length of Pull: 14.3” - 14.75” (With an additional butt pad, extends to 15.1”)

  • Chassis Weight: 1090g (38.5oz) (Ruger 10/22 wood chassis is approx. 950g)

  • Handguard Inner Width Compatible with suppressors or muzzle devices up to 1.299” in diameter

  • Upper Handguard: 6061 CNC Aluminum

  • Lower Frame material: PA66 Polymer

  • Trigger Linkage: SUS304 Metal Sheet Stamping

  • Butt Pad material: TPU

  • Cheek Pad material: EVA

  • Quick release chassis system 

  • Uses standard AR grips

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

Black, Tan, and OD Green 

What others are saying?:

Nothing found as of publishing

Link to other reviews:

Nothing found on Real Steel version (10/22 not airsoft)

Price point:

MSRP = $399 - $419

Retail = Same

I need it now! Availability:

SRU Precision

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Good design

  • Takes standard AR grips

  • Works with left hand eject

  • Works with any 10/22 receiver 

  • M-Lok slots

  • Full top pic rail

Cons:

  • Misalignment between two parts

  • Increases trigger pull weight 

  • Screw height of top clamping screws

  • Some larger bolt handles may not work

Score: 7.00 Good

Favorite Link:  SARB-15 Bullpup Chassis Review 

, ,

AimWin PE320

, ,

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

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