On May 31, 2018, SIG SAUER announced that the City of Chicago Police Department added the P320 to the department’s official authorized duty pistol list. The department is the second largest in the US with over 13,000 sworn officers.

Tom Jankiewicz, SIG SAUER’s Executive Vice President, Law Enforcement Sales, stated, “We are pleased that the SIG SAUER P320 has been added to the Chicago Police Department’s official authorized duty pistol listing. The modular design of the P320 gives their full complement of officers the capability to easily change grip size and convert the sizing of their P320 from full-size to sub-compact, based on the officers’ needs and preferences. This customization feature of the P320 makes it an excellent option for a large department like the Chicago PD to meet the diversity of needs amongst officers.”

The P320 is a modular, striker-fired pistol available in full-size, carry, compact and subcompact sizing. The serialized trigger group makes the P320 adaptable to multiple caliber, size and grip options. The P320 is available in 9mm, .357SIG, 40S&W and .45ACP, with a choice of contrast or SIGLITE Night Sights. The intuitive 3-point takedown requires no trigger pull for disassembly, and safety features include a striker safety, disconnect safety and optional manual safety.

The official authorized P320 pistols are: P320 Nitron Full-Size, P320 Nitron Carry, P320 Nitron Compact and the P320 Nitron Subcompact.

The financial terms were not disclosed.

Poulin Earns Over $2.4M in May

Thousands of bidders participated from across the globe in a 3-day auction held May 7–9 by Poulin Antiques and Auctions (Fairfield, ME), resulting in over $2.4 million in sales. The auction house is rated one of the top five firearms auction houses in North America. The auction offered an extensive selection of firearms to a large in-house crowd, telephone bidders, internet platform bidders and absentee bidders.

The 3-day event comprised several collections including the personal collection of the late Joseph “J.R.” LaRue (1940-2017). LaRue was the Chief Firearms Consultant, advisor and catalogue writer at James D. Julia, Inc., for many years. He also owned Carter Mountain Consulting Agency in TN, providing appraisals for the firearms community across the country.

There was a wide variety of weapons to choose from. The first six lots were comprised of Angelo Bee-engraved firearms including a Colt 1908 Vest Pocket Pistol; a Colt Python; a Browning trombone slide action rifle; a Winchester Model 21 two-gauge set; and two Browning Superposed shotguns. These firearms set the auction’s pace when all six sold, totaling over $81,000. Lever actions held their own in this sale with an exceptional Ballard No. 6-1/2 Rigby factory engraved single-shot which rang in at $18,212.

Quality handgun selections invited strong auction participation and healthy bid prices. With many fine examples to choose from, the auction had something for every collector.

Trijicon® Licenses OASYS Thermal Imaging and Aiming Tech

On June 6, 2018, Trijicon announced it will license BAE Systems’ OASYS thermal imaging and aiming technology. This new licensing agreement will enhance Trijicon’s expanding product portfolio for commercial, military and law enforcement customers around the world.

With this technology license, Trijicon will be positioned to provide the OASYS line of compact, high-performance thermal imaging and aiming monoculars, weapon sights and binoculars. To accelerate Trijicon’s business position, BAE Systems will also sell its current OASYS inventory to Trijicon. Going forward, Trijicon and BAE Systems will continue to collaborate to help maintain product quality, transfer manufacturing and operations knowledge and develop a potential product roadmap.

“We look forward to building on the OASYS portfolio, working closely with BAE Systems to maintain quality and performance, and making the products accessible to a larger customer base,” said Trijicon President, Stephen Bindon.

The OASYS electro optic product line uses uncooled thermal technology to deliver innovative imaging and aiming products that provide infrared thermal detection of targets to deliver heightened situational awareness to operators.

Sig Sauer Electro-Optics Donates to HAVA

The Honored American Veterans Afield (HAVA) was presented a $40,000 check from SIG SAUER Electro-Optics at the 2018 NRA Annual Meeting in Dallas, TX.

Andy York, President, SIG SAUER Electro-Optics said, “At SIG SAUER Electro-Optics we wanted to do something above and beyond the current SIG SAUER commitment to help bolster the program and show our profound support for those that have defended our freedoms.”

HAVA was created and organized in 2007 by a committee of shooting sports industry executives to help the healing and re-integration of disabled veterans and injured active military back into normal American life through participation in outdoor events.

HAVA sponsors guided hunts, shooting events and outdoor activities across the country, hosting hundreds of veterans annually.

Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs, also known as drones) are a component of an unmanned aircraft system (UAS) which includes the UAV, a ground-based controller and a communication system between the two. The revolutionary impact of Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS) on the future battlefield has been anticipated for quite some time. The US has led the world in the use of RPAS for both reconnaissance and strikes against high value targets.

Ukraine Conflict

In the Ukraine conflict, UAVs have been used on both sides in significant numbers. UAVs can have a dramatic impact that is quite different from anything experienced in the unilateral American use. The first use of drones in this conflict was observed in May 2014, when the Russian “separatists” began using small fixed-wing tactical UAVs. From mid-July through the end of the Russian summer offensive in early September, Russia flooded the area with at least five types of drones, each operating at different heights. One example: In September 2014, an overflying drone identified a Ukrainian position. Within 15 minutes of the initial over-flight, the position was destroyed with “GRAD” BM-21 MLRS. The drone returned shortly after to do an immediate bomb-damage assessment. Later the same year, another similar strike occurred when a position was hit by “GRAD” fragments. There were two UAVs over the position—a quadcopter at 800ft and a small fixed-wing drone at about 2,500ft. Technological advances have made the battlefield more dynamic than ever, which means weapon systems must quickly adapt to counter threats.

At the DSEI 2017 exhibition in London, Nammo displayed the remains of the drone that was shot down and Nammo’s 40mm programmable ammunition in its various forms. (Aud Håland)

ISIL Ramped up Fight with Weaponized Drones

Since mid-2014, the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant group (ISIL, also known as ISIS) had held Mosul until recently. In addition to using drones for reconnaissance in Iraq, ISIL had been sending them out with bombs attached. Lacking effective countermeasures against what were potentially flying IEDs, the coalition forces were forced to flee from the simple and cheap commercial drones, causing widespread disruption. The drones, possibly quadcopters, reportedly dropped at least 10 explosives during an hour of fighting. ISIS isn’t the first to use this tactic in Syria: A video, released on social media on August 2016 by a Hezbollah-affiliated media outlet, appeared to show the unmanned aerial vehicle dropping cluster bombs on three Syrian rebel positions, in support of the Syrian regime in the countryside surrounding Aleppo.

The purpose of this article is to present 40mm programmable ammunitions’ capability against small drones fired by an Automatic Grenade Launcher on a KONGSBERG PROTECTOR remote weapon station and to provide some other examples of counter-drone solutions.

The Common Remotely Operated Weapon Station (CROWS). (KONGSBERG)

Nammo

Before Nammo developed its programmable ammunition technology, conventional 40mm ammunition rounds had not changed for over 40 years. In 2002, Nammo initiated a technology program to explore programmable ammunition to introduce more capability to the round. Nammo’s 30mm, 40mm, 120mm and M72 programmable ammunition has been developed over the last 15 years to be tactically flexible, highly accurate, reliable and cost-effective.

This weapon ammunition includes:

• M72—Demonstrated multiple times since 2011, both remotely and man-fired, projecting programmable ammunition. Development is ongoing at Nammo Talley, exploring the re-use of electronics and a Fuze setter.
• 30x173mm RF—Demonstrated since 2015, with a development focus on optimizing Fuze programming and fragmentation.
• 120mm Programmable Fuze—Complete with super-quick impact function with a programmable delayed impact.
• 40x53mm high velocity programmable ammunition for automatic grenade launchers (AGLs).

These serve to increase troops’ capabilities to defeat enemies in covered and concealed positions with pinpoint accuracy. The programmable ammunition is proven to be effective against concealed targets and unmanned aerial vehicles as well as light armored and technical vehicles. The whole range is quickly adaptable to counter threats. The Nammo range of air burst products can be easily integrated into existing weapon platforms and fire-control systems. A wireless communication system allows for precise detonation, ahead, over, on or within a concealed target, even around a corner. The system architecture is quite basic. In addition to the innovative programmable ammunition, it consists of a programming unit and an antenna that is mounted on either the weapon or the vehicle. The distance to the target is entered into the programming unit either manually or based on input from an automated range finder. Then, in contrast to competing systems, instead of programming the ammunition before it is fired, or inside the barrel, it receives its instructions just as the shell leaves the gun. This eliminates the need for upgrades to the barrel. A standard antenna transmits the distance to the ammunition as a signal. Data received activates a detonation countdown. The impact point is decided, and the airburst detonates to its precise target. The airburst family can be used with a range of systems, from shoulder-launched weapons to tanks.

Russian fixed wing tactical drone. (Ministry of Defence of the Russian Federation)

An Automatic Grenade Launcher Knocks out a Drone

The Norwegian Army wanted to evaluate how quickly, easily and cheaply a counter-UAV system could be implemented to take out a tactical drone thanks to the Airburst capability of Nammo’s programmable ammunition. In October 2017, KONGSBERG developed a demonstrator with low costs using the KONGSBERG PROTECTOR RWS (Remote Weapon Station) mounted with the HK GMG (Grenade Machine Gun) for a test firing and proof of concept. The HK GMG is a combat-proven, belt-fed AGL that fires high-impulse 40mm grenades in a variety of applications. The firing rate is 350 rounds per minute. In this case Nammo’s Airburst ammunition and the SQUIRE ground surveillance radar by the Thales Group were used. Officially no data are published, but it has been reported that the test shooting and the detection took place up to 1,000m; the weapon has a range up to 1,500m—even in flat direct fire. Nammo’s programmable 40mm ammunition is as mentioned earlier developed to achieve more precise targeting in defilade or to neutralize enemy forces that are avoiding direct fire by protection rather than being a dedicated anti-drone ammunition system. It is instead an upgrade to an existing weapon system, allowing it to be effective against a wide range of threats. The ability to take down drones is therefore mainly a side effect and a demonstration of the flexibility of the technology, rather than a key design requirement. Another advantage of the 40mm programmable ammo is its ability to explode in a highly controlled way to avoid damaging surroundings or continuing on its path to hit civilian targets. This is especially important in dense urban environments or in situations where the unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) is carrying explosives that need disabling or detonating at a safe height.

KONGSBERG CROWS II here mounted on a HUMVEE. (KONGSBERG)

The KONGSBERG PROTECTOR RWS

KONGSBERG is the world’s leading provider of Remote Weapon Stations. The PROTECTOR Family of Remote Weapon Stations (RWS) is a system suitable for any mission whether on land or at sea, and on mobile or static platforms for remote operation payloads ranging from small caliber weapons to medium caliber automatic cannons. The system is modular, and all of the different variants of the PROTECTOR RWS share the same baseline technology. Three quarters of all the weapons stations KONGSBERG has produced are on American vehicles and have been in use in the US Army in one form or another since 2001(M151 PROTECTOR, M153 PROTECTOR, CROWS).

In August 2007, KONGSBERG was awarded the prestigious contract of CROWS II Common Remotely Operated Weapon Station by the US Army. CROWS is a joint acquisition program for weapon stations for the US Army vehicle programs. In August 2012 KONGSBERG was awarded the follow-on CROWS contract, enabling KONGSBERG to continue the well-established cooperation with the US Army. PROTECTOR’s capabilities allow soldiers to operate out of harm’s way from a protected position using stabilized precision optics and lasers to observe, detect and engage targets with increased accuracy and reduce collateral damage.

A feature of the PROTECTOR’s aim and fire function is the Detached Line of Sight. It enables the gunner to keep his sights on target, independent of the ballistic solution for the weapon and ammunition in use. The CROWS is compatible with four major crew weapon systems. It is designed to mount on a variety of vehicle platforms and supports M2 .50 Caliber Machine Gun, M240B Machine Gun, M249 Squad and the 40x53mm Mark 19 Automatic Grenade Launcher Weapon. As already described, the 40x53mm high-velocity grenades use programmable and laser-measured data transmitted into the grenade, which then program the grenade to airburst at that particular altitude. The burst maximizes the effectiveness of the explosions around a drone. This technology would have been very difficult to fit in a 40x46mm low-velocity grenade typically fired from hand-held grenade launchers due to the size and the lack of range with most of these designs (max effective 400m). However, with an automatic grenade launcher, the max effective range is pushed out to 1,500m (Mk 19 AGL), and the 40x53mm has more space to fit the explosive charge as well as the timing mechanism. PROTECTOR is a mature and proven product based on millions of hours of operational experience in combat zones with an unprecedented operational readiness of 99%. The PROTECTOR is in full-scale production and is qualified for global operations combined with a close cooperation with Defense Forces worldwide. KONGSBERG has delivered nearly 20,000 remote-controlled weapons stations to 19 nations. As of March 2018, the user list includes Qatar.

DG MKII, the Australian company DroneShield’s DroneGun tactical drone jammer. The jammer works by sending a strong signal on the same frequency band as the drone uses to communicate with the controller and GPS satellite. The gun’s weight is 4.5kg. Handheld jammers, especially in the shape of rifles, have become popular directional jammers, with the ability to affect targets at a range for a given amount of portable jammer power. (DroneShield LLC)

Other Counter Drone Solutions

To counter a UAV System it must first be detected, for example by use of operational radars, infrared cameras and direction finders. Based on an extensive threat library and real-time analysis of control signals, a jammer then interrupts the link between drone and pilot and/or its navigation. The defeat solutions that have been available include kinetic/hard kill (bullets, nets, lasers, etc.) and non-kinetic/soft kill (jammers that disrupt GPS and common ISM bands reception, cyber/hacking, etc.). The demand for anti-drone weapons is expanding. The rapidly emerging DroneGun MKII market is a clear reflection of that. Australian media reported in February 2018 that a drone breaching an aerial exclusion zone around the Commonwealth Games’ venues was neutralized using DroneShield LLC’s DroneGun MKII, and the drone operator was apprehended. The incident was revealed as police and defence showed off some of their might ahead of the Commonwealth Games event including an RAAF FA-18 Hornet flyover of the Broadwater Parklands. Oleg Vornik, DroneShield’s CEO commented, “Much of the use of our products is not publicly known. Security and military agencies rarely comment on deployments and specific incidents. We are proud to have secured the skies for the public at the Games, as is evident from this incident which became public.” Queensland Police Service utilized multiple units of DroneShield’s DroneGun MKII for aerial protection. DroneGun MKII (both MKII and Tactical versions) is a directional rifle-shaped jammer. The advantages of a jammer vs. kinetic (like grenades) are that there’s no collateral damage, no ammunition, no charge time, drone can be retained for forensic investigation, drone can be forced to fly to start point to identify pilot, no need to aim (30-degree beam), and a jammer can be effective against swarms.

What’s the best way to shoot down a drone? For many in the defense industry, the solution to flying robots may be a compact laser weapon placed on vehicles to protect the soldiers on the ground from attacks. Raytheon, for example, has integrated its multi-spectral targeting system with a high-energy laser into an unprotected, all-wheel drive, off-road MRZR vehicle from Polaris. The US Army tested the system in the Maneuver Fires Integrated Experiment together with other weapons in counter UAS use. The laser was able to destroy 12 flying UAS of classes I and II: Class I is a small UAV, such as an RQ-11 Raven UAV (platoon-level asset); a Class II UAV would have supported the Infantry and Mounted Combat System Company Commanders with reconnaissance, security/early warning, target and designation. Anti-drone operations are extremely complex and place high demands on rules of engagement, sensors and targeting procedures. Nammo’s ammunition does not alone resolve this issue, but it offers ground forces something they so far have been lacking, which is a cost-effective weapon that could be used even in urban areas.

In February 2018, a drone breaching an aerial exclusion zone around the Commonwealth Games’ venues was neutralized using a DroneGun; the drone operator was apprehended. Sr. Sgt. John Hildebrand holds a DroneGun. (DroneShield LLC- AAP Image/Tim Marsden)

Programmable Ammunition for AGLs

[For a description of AGLs, see previous article titled, “The Infantry Soldiers’ Grenade Launchers” in SADJ, Vol. 10, No. 3.]

With the introduction of the 40x53mm MK285 Programmable Pre-fragmented High Explosive (PPHE), Nammo became the first company to qualify High Explosive—Radio Frequency (PPHE-RF), further improving adaptability by incorporating a wireless communication solution to program the ammunition. The (NM 264) 40x53mm High Explosive Dual Purpose—Radio Frequency (HEDP-RF) has also been developed with wireless programming and allows for different target scenarios due to its HEDP and/or RF functions. Demonstrations also have proven this round to be very effective against UAVs.

(PPHE), Nammo became the first company to qualify High Explosive—Radio Frequency (PPHE-RF), further improving adaptability by incorporating a wireless communication solution to program the ammunition. The (NM 264) 40x53mm High Explosive Dual Purpose—Radio Frequency (HEDP-RF) has also been developed with wireless programming and allows for different target scenarios due to its HEDP and/or RF functions. Demonstrations also have proven this round to be very effective against UAVs.

Conclusion

Unmanned systems and technologies are making a big game change throughout the world. The use of Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) for military, commercial, civilian and scientific applications is growing rapidly, along with detection and anti-drone systems.

Nammo’s 30mm and 40mm airburst technology can now be tactically used to take out discovered drones within weapon range with an accurate response and with minimal risk of collateral damage.

Faithful readers of this column are well aware of the ongoing efforts to modernize and streamline the current procedures for the export of small arms from the United States. Recent media reports attribute the recent proposed changes to the Trump presidency, but in reality, export control reform has been underway since 2009, at the request of President Obama. Undertaken with the goal of strengthening national security and increasing the competitiveness of U.S. manufacturing, the reform effort has focused on current threats while adapting to changing economic and technological landscapes. The reform effort has taken two noteworthy avenues: ITAR category revisions and EAR/ITAR definition harmonization. Back in 2016, this column predicted that “[t]rue export reform will not occur for most readers until USML Categories I, II and III are completed; however, at this juncture it seems unlikely that massive changes will be made to these categories.” This author could not have been more wrong.

Transfer of Jurisdiction

The U.S. State Department currently controls jurisdiction over most small arms and ammunition, with the exception of shotguns and shotgun ammunition, which are governed by the U.S. Commerce Department. Under the May 15 proposed regulatory change, all semiautomatic firearms would transfer from State to Commerce. Small arms that were once in USML Category I will be moved to Commerce ECCN categories 0A501 and 0A502. Firearms that fire caseless ammunition, fully automatic firearms, sound suppressors, magazines with a capacity exceeding 50 rounds and firearms that are specially designed to integrate fire control, automatic tracking or automatic firing will remain within USML Category I and under State jurisdiction.

Exports of previously State-regulated firearms should become easier under Commerce, albeit, probably slower. The U.S. State Department currently processed export license applications rather quickly, with Commerce taking quite a bit longer. Nevertheless, there is no fee to file an export license under the Commerce Department. Which leads us to…

ITAR Registration Fees

ITAR registration fees have been a major sticking point to firearm manufacturers. Prior to 2012, the annual registration fee was $1,750. In 2012, the registration fee was redesigned on a sliding scale, with $2,250 as the base fee, $2,750 for companies that export 10 times or less per year and $2,750 plus $250 per export over 10 transactions per year. Application of the fee was routinely applied to firearm manufacturers but was also extended to manufacturers of firearm parts and accessories. Enforcement efforts were exhaustive, with reports of the U.S. State Department contacting major distributors and asking for ITAR registration for each firearm parts supplier. For many small businesses that conducted little or no international business, the registration scheme was burdensome and excessive. Several very small businesses discontinued business rather than pay the ITAR registration fee.

With the transfer of jurisdiction from the U.S. State Department to the U.S. Commerce Department, many current registrants may not be required to register under ITAR, unless they currently manufacture suppressors, magazines that exceed 50-round capacity, caseless ammunition and the weapons that fire caseless ammunition, or fully automatic weapons.

Rifle Scopes

Jurisdiction of rifle scopes depends upon whether the optic is “manufactured to military specifications.” Under the proposed regulations, all optics would transfer to the Commerce Department unless they incorporate night vision or infra-red capabilities that are defined under USML Category XII. All optics would be classified under ECCN 0A987 under the proposed regulations.

Performance of Defense Services

Defense services are currently regulated under the ITAR. Teaching a class on anything more advanced than basic use and maintenance of a rifle is deemed a licensable event under the ITAR. With the transfer of jurisdiction of semiautomatic firearms to Commerce, training that would have required a license under the old rules will not require a license if the new rules are adopted.

Export of Technical Data

Frequent readers of this column will recall the argument between 1st Amendment rights to free speech versus the U.S. State Department’s determination on what constitutes “export activity.” Recently, legal action was taken against Defense Distributed for posting plans online on how to use a 3D printer to manufacture a handgun. Under the ITAR, this was a deemed export, and the U.S. State Department sent a cease and desist letter to Defense Distributed in an attempt to prevent further “deemed exports.”
The BIS notice of proposed rulemaking states: “Part 734 makes clear that publication of technology on the Internet is not an export of that technology to the rest of the world; rather it is a release of that technology from export controls.” Should jurisdiction transfer from State to Commerce, the actions undertaken by Defense Distributed would not be illegal.

The government has historically had difficulty in striking an appropriate balance between national security and national competitiveness via export control. The new proposed regulations are just that–proposed. There is no timeline on when the new rules will take effect, and the final rules could be different from what has been proposed. Both the State and Commerce Departments will be taking comments (for, or against) the proposed regulatory changes through June 30. Interested parties may submit comments on the proposed regulations by emailing DDTCPublicComments@state.gov with the subject line, “ITAR Amendment–Categories I, II and III.” Comments received after June 30, 2018, will be considered, if feasible, but consideration cannot be assured. Comments received are subject to public disclosure, so those wishing to submit anonymous comments may do so by submitting their comments via www.regulations.gov and leaving the fields that would identify the commenter blank and including no identifying information in the comment itself.

…

Mr. Wong is a Washington-licensed attorney. He regularly provides legal counsel to the firearm and defense industry via his law firm, The Firearms Law Group. Mr. Wong also manages Hurricane Butterfly, an import/export company that assists firearm manufacturers, resellers and collectors from around the world wade through the regulatory quagmire of U.S. import/export regulations.

He may be found online at FirearmsLawGroup.com.

The preceding article is not intended as legal advice and should not be taken as legal advice. If the reader has specific legal questions, seek competent legal counsel.

This is a very large and thorough book on the history of the AK-47 and all its facets. It is the best resource currently available. There are 1,086 pages of information and a large number of high quality detailed photographs of various weapons and military photographs. This is the second edition of the AK-47 The Grim Reaper.

The first edition was published in 2008 and takes the reader through the development of the assault rifle, manufacturers in Russia, detailed looks at the 1st-3rd generation AK-47 rifles, AKM update, AK-74 family of weapons, AK-100 series, other Kalashnikov designs, Warsaw Pact countries manufacturing AK-type rifles, AK-derivatives, AK comes to America, made in USA AK-47 rifles, magazine and ammunition variations. The second edition greatly enhances the reader’s knowledge by the addition of many detailed photographs of various models, additional information and updated information of the current status of this family of weapons.

AK-47 The Grim Reaper (Second Edition)

The book begins with Chapter 1 on the development of the modern day assault rifle with discussion of the U.S. Army Weapons Command Research & Engineering Directorate Small Arms System Laboratory testing on the AK-47 rifle from experience in Vietnam. It also parallels the development of the AK-47 with parallel to U.S. small arms development and ammunition development. Included are detailed historical descriptions of the German Sturmgewehr and its 7.92x33mm intermediate round and its influence on Kalashnikov’s design as well as the introduction to Kalashnikov’s story of his development of the rifle and its trail to the hands of the Soviet soldier.

Chapter 2 gives an introduction to the numerous Russian weapons factories spread out over the vast lands of the former Soviet Union. The arsenal marks are shown and how to identify the weapon with the factory that produced it. The second edition adds photographs of current manufacturing of the rifle.

Chapter 3 begins the analysis of the developmental history of the AK-47. There are thorough descriptions and photographs of the first, second and third generation rifles. The second edition offers more detailed photographs of the first and second generation rifles to help the reader understand how they were built and what the exact differences are. Attention is given to every detail and every change. This includes both fixed and underfolding stock variations of all three generations of the rifle.

Chapter 4 introduces the AKM and its derivatives. All changes are documented on the 3rd generation machined receivers’ transformation into the lower weight (2.5 pounds less) stamped AKM rifle. Many detailed photographs and drawings clearly define the changes that make up the AKM.

Chapter 5 documents the development and history of the small caliber 5.45x39mm cartridge and the new AK-74 which would eventually replace the AK-47/AKM family of weapons in the Soviet Army. The AK-74 has gone through many incremental changes and continues to this very day. Through this chapter the reader will see the advancements in Soviet/Russian manufacturing capabilities.

Chapter 6 takes the reader through the latest developments in the AK-series of rifles, the AK-100 Series. Designed for export use, the rifle goes through an update in furniture as well as the introduction of rifles that will fire the NATO 5.56x45mm cartridge. Additional gas systems, stocks and barrels are introduced. The end of this chapter also introduces and describes in detail the AN-94 rifle, the rifle that was supposed to replace the AK-74.

Chapter 7 shows other Kalashnikov developed weapons including the Bizon submachine gun, RPK, RPKS, RPK-74, RPKS-74, PK, PKM and SVD.

Chapter 8 documents the Warsaw Pact countries that the Soviet Union set up manufacturing facilities in their country to produce the array of Kalashnikov weapons. Russia states now that many of the rifles produced are illegal clones that were not licensed by Russia for the use of their technical data. The proliferation of sales throughout all these former Warsaw Pact countries have hurt Russian companies from selling the rifle that originated with them. This chapter details description of all of the countries the Soviet Union licensed manufacturing rights to the AK-47 family of weapons and their variations. There are significant numbers of new photographs added to this chapter from the first edition.

Chapter 9 discusses production of AK-type rifles outside of the former Warsaw Pact countries–one of the largest being China. China has many different variations of the AK-type rifle and sold them abroad in large numbers. Egypt is another large producer. Greatly expanded information about AK-production in Iraq including many new photographs not found in the first edition. Also included are North Korea, Pakistan-Khyber Pass-Afghanistan, Yugoslavia/Serbia and Croatia.

Chapter 10 goes into Kalashnikov design derivatives which are rifles that closely copy or borrow a significant number of features from the design. These countries include Czechoslovakia, Finland Valmet rifles, Israeli Galil and South African R-4 series.

Chapter 11 takes the reader through the AK introduction to the American market with the history of the imported sporting rifles into the U.S. starting with the Finish Valmet and Egyptian Maadi versions. Additionally, for all the “Wolverines!” fans out there, the second edition gives the historical details of the rifles that were used in the movie “Red Dawn.” The introduction of Chinese rifles to the U.S. market was vast and in different variations, which are all documented and photographed in the book. Descriptions and photographs follow with Hungarian and Yugoslavian sporting versions of the AK rifle.

The first Soviet (Type 1) 7.62x39mm AK rifle receivers were made from stamped sheet metal. This example is dated 1951. Apparently, there were problems encountered as the stamped receiver was replaced by a Type 2 milled receiver. Note: the nomenclatures Type 1, 2 and 3 are used in the West to identify the different AK models; they are not Soviet designations.

Chapter 12 marks the dark days of the Assault Weapon Ban. This marked the 1989 importation ban and all the legalities of assembling post ban rifles with pre-ban configuration parts. Also included is the discussion of all the Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act, The 1994 Assault Weapon Ban and its sunset in 2004. Descriptions and photographs of the numerous imported AK-type rifles are contained in this chapter.

Chapter 13 chronicles AK’s that are made in the USA. Many are American made receivers built up with foreign parts kits. Many American companies are listed who either manufacture or modify different variations of the rifles mixing in American made parts.

Chapter 14 delves into the magazine variations of all generations and all caliber AK-type rifles with detailed photos and descriptions of the magazines made in numerous countries.

Chapter 15 gives detailed descriptions of ammunition. This will include identification of ammunition types as well as the arsenals in which they were manufactured. This covers both 7.62x39mm and 5.45x39mm.

Chapter 16 gives a collectors description of accouterments including bayonets, grenade launchers, rifle grenades, sound suppressors, night vision, scopes, carrying cases, cleaning kits, blank firing adapters, magazine pouches and slings.

This book is a must have for any student of the AK-family of weapons. This book also would be well put to use by law enforcement and crime laboratory reference libraries where identification of these rifles and accessories are needed. There has never been a more thorough study of the AK-series ever put in print. For those who already have the first edition, it is well worth upgrading to the second. There is significantly enough material added to make it worthwhile. The photographs are of the highest quality and no stone is left unturned.

This book may be purchased directly from Chipotle Publishing for $69.95 plus shipping at www.smallarmsreview.com, on Amazon.com or at your local bookseller.

AK-47 The Grim Reaper
(Second Edition)
BY FRANK IANNAMICO
1,086 PAGES
$69.95 USD
ISBN: 978-0-9823918-5-3
CHIPOTLE PUBLISHING
www.smallarmsreview.com

“We come now to the rifle grenade. Rifle grenades are similar to hand grenades except that they are ‘thrown’ by your rifle instead of your hand and arm. They are designed to be fired from your rifle by using a special device called a launcher which is attached to the muzzle of your rifle. A special blank cartridge is used in your rifle to shoot the grenade at your target. Again you are reminded that there are several types of rifle grenades just as there are several types of hand grenades. Your choice of a rifle grenade depends on what you want it to do.”
—US Army Field Manual 23-30 Hand and Rifle Grenades, April 1949

While some primitive, musket-launched explosive munitions reportedly appeared on battlefields way back in the 1600s, their widespread use didn’t take off–literally–until most of the world was at war from 1914 to 1918. Battle-tested in trench warfare, necessarily improved and made in many specialized varieties, the rifle grenade secured its place then and now in the arsenal of indispensable infantry weapons.

Bridging the very wide distance gap between hand bombs and light mortars, individual soldiers used their muzzle-launched munitions in high angle fire to clear trenches or shoot signal flares, fire directly to blast buildings and bunkers and even gas their enemies.

Cups, Rods and Spigots

The earliest practical types were cups and rods, the first being heavy, ungainly muzzle-mounted and muzzle-loading, mini-cannon barrels propelling munitions by force of powerful blank loads or–quite cleverly–standard ball projectiles passing through a tunnel in the grenade. Most soldiers on both ends are said to have hated them.

Rods came next, around 1907, and are usually credited to Martin Hale. Dispensing with the bothersome steel cup, they perched the grenade atop a long, ungainly, bothersome steel rod that was slipped down the rifle’s barrel.

Obviously, standard bulleted cartridges would be disastrous, so powerful special blanks were needed. Soldiers really hated these too, as did thrifty Ordnance officials faced with untold numbers of rifle barrels that were badly damaged by the rapid exit of rattling rods.

So launching cups came back into style–if not favored–by the French, British, Germans, Johnny-come-lately American Doughboys and other combatant nations.

In the years following what was overly optimistically dubbed, “The War to End All Wars,” spigot-type launchers were developed by the US Army. A vast improvement in many ways over the cup cannon, relatively light, finned, hollow-tail grenades were slipped over a light and handy steel spigot tube clamped in one way or another to the muzzles of various rifles.

While back to having to carry both standard and blank ammo, soldiers who didn’t load the wrong cartridges in the heat of battle were rewarded by highly efficient munitions that flew fast and far.

27 years later, by the end of World War II, rifle grenades in use by all major and most minor military forces had reached high levels of sophistication and effectiveness. Oddly, the usually innovative Germans stuck with old-fashioned, inefficient cups, as did the Japanese, British and Russians.

Along the way, all of the American infantry soldier’s handy hand grenade types were fitted with tailbooms or special adapters for finned flight, including anti-personnel, smoke, incendiary, irritant gas and anti-armor.

Grenades, Accessories, Sequence of Operations and Mechanical Training
(An excerpt from US War Department Basic Field Manual 23-30, Hand and Rifle Grenades, February 1944)

Grenades. With the aid of a launcher, rifle grenades may be fired from US Rifles, caliber.30, M1, Ma903, M903A1, M903A3 and M1917; and from the US Carbine, caliber.30, M1, M1A1 and M1A3.

Types. Rifle grenades are divided into four general classes:

Practice (training) grenades containing no explosives as follows:
Practice anti-tank rifle grenade M11A1.
Practice anti-tank rifle grenade M11A2.

High explosive or fragmentation grenades containing an explosive charge, as follows:
Anti-tank rifle grenade M9A1.
Impact fragmentation rifle grenade M17 (formerly the T2).
Fragmentation hand grenade Mk II (used with Grenade-projection adapter M1).

Pyrotechnic signals equipped with the fin assembly to be fired from the launchers, as follows:
Ground signal, white star; parachute, M17A1; cluster M18A1.
Ground signal, green star; parachute, M19A1; cluster M20A1.
Ground signal, amber star; parachute, M21A1; cluster M22A1.
Ground signal, red star; parachute, M51A1; cluster M52A1.

Smoke rifle grenade (White Phosphorous) T5.

Accessories. Special cartridges listed below are used for discharging all rifle grenades, both for anti-tank and anti-personnel use. Neither ordinary blank ammunition nor service ammunition will be used.

Rifle grenade cartridge, caliber.30, M3.
Carbine grenade cartridge, caliber.30, M6.
Auxiliary grenade cartridge, M7. This cartridge designed to give additional range when used in firing grenades from rifles and carbines.
Grenade launcher sight T59.

“Cold War” Developments

To great relief of Brit Tommies, Frenchies and others, cups were canned, and tubes triumphed as NATO armies grimly armed to counter Communist nations, intent on world domination. Sound familiar?

While AT grenades using shaped-charge warheads for armor-cutting had proliferated, the lethality of anti-tank rifle grenades increased exponentially with introduction of the ENERGA in 1948.

US M31 HEAT (High Explosive Anti-Tank) Rifle Grenade

While disastrous experience against increasingly thick armor on German tanks in WWII set in motion US development of the Super Bazooka with its 3.5-inch diameter warhead, no such luck in rifle grenades. So when GIs went head-to-head with North Korea’s Soviet-supplied T34 tanks in 1950, the puny HEAT was all but useless.

In hasty desperation, the American solution was to field the M28 HEAT rifle grenade, a version of the formidable European ENERGA, capable of easily blowing through the T34/?85’s thick frontal armor. This was quickly followed by the improved M31, a beefy 1.56 pounder with even greater penetration.

Produced in enormous quantities by Mecar of Belgium, the ENERGA and variants were widely used by NATO signatories and other nations.

M31 HEAT Tech Specs
Length: 16.9 in.
Weight: 25 oz.
Warhead: 66mm (2.6 in.) diameter, 8.9oz RDX/TNT Composition B-shaped charge
Fuze: Piezoelectric
Penetration: 8in steel armor, 19in concrete

Notes: Launched with powerful grenade blanks to nearly 200m, its 22mm-diameter tailboom is compatible with all US rifle grenade launchers and right off the barrel of most every NATO standard rifle.

Mecar’s HEAT-RFL-75 Super ENERGA is a rocket-boosted, bunker-busting and tank terror with an effective range of 150m against moving targets out to a maximum range in excess of 500m. Its shaped charge warhead of 328g of PETN punches through 275mm (10.8in) of armor plate and 600mm (23.6in) of reinforced concrete. Caution: DON’T FIRE IT FROM THE SHOULDER!

Bloopers Be Damned!

While it looked for a while that stand-alone and underbarrel grenade launchers like America’s M79 and M203 “Bloop Tubes” and Russian GP-25 Kostyor would render the venerable rifle grenade obsolete, that doesn’t seem to be entirely the case so far.

Indeed, the French in particular seem fond of rifle grenades, necessarily small and light so as to allow launching from the small and light FAMAS bullpup. Online videos gleefully document pain and punishment from firing even midget munitions like the 14-ounce APAV 40.

Merde!

Today, tailboom grenades proliferate worldwide in a dazzling array of types including Mecar’s handy TELGREN, a family of flyers that collapse like a telescope for compact carrying, then expand with a quick pull for launching–complete with a clever spring-deployed plastic ladder sight.

Other Developments

Cups are making a comeback, most notably for launching riot control and other “less lethal” munitions. Conflict Armament Research reports on interesting hybrids recently encountered in use by Islamic State forces that feature finned grenade IEDs fired from a Kalashnikov-mounted cup.

When all is said and done, rifle-launched munitions are too damn versatile and effective to yield entirely to bulky bloop tubes. “No pain, no gain.”

Rifle Grenade References

This necessarily brief photo feature is intended as a way to stimulate an appetite for more research on the world’s fascinating array of rifle-launched munitions. As such, we offer some for starters:

SAR Archives

www.smallarmsreview.com/archive/reference.index.cfm
Rifle Grenade Overview Online

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rifle_grenade
Grenades (and just about all other explosive ordnance)
ordata.info

Videos

www.youtube.com/results?search_query=rifle+grenades
Best Overall for Vintage Grenade Collectors
inert-ord.net

Books

US Infantry Weapons of the First World War, Bruce Canfield

Jane’s Infantry Weapons, Various Editors, Multiple Editions

Reproduction and Inert Rifle Grenades

www.serviceofsupply.com/product/grenade-rifle-rubber-reproduction/
Various online sellers found on ebay, Gunbroker and others

One for fun

NcStar AR-15 Golf Ball Grenade Launcher
Sportsmandguide.com

The Rod Grenade of WWI gets an ultramodern twist in the SIMON Breach Grenade from Rafael of Israel. Its standoff detonating rod is out front and the tailboom slips over the rifle’s flash suppressor. Known as the M100 Grenade Rifle Entry Munition in US service, it explodes at a set distance to blast open heavy doors and shuttered windows. A bullet trap inside allows launching with conventional ball cartridges. Seen here, an Israeli paratrooper slips a SIMON onto his M4 carbine in a live fire training exercise in 2012. (IDF PHOTO VIA WIKIMEDIA)

The British Army’s heavy steel cup “discharger” of WWI soldiered on some 20 years later as seen in this 1942 photo of a Home Guard reservist demonstrating tank-busting technique. Protruding from the cup clamped to the muzzle of his SMLE No. 1 MkIII is a No. 68 AT grenade, its rather small, shaped charge warhead only able to penetrate a maximum of 2 inches of armor flat-on. Ferocious recoil from the powerful Ballistite blank load kicking a heavy projectile necessitates placement of the rifle butt on the ground. (IWM PHOTO VIA WIKIMEDIA)

The US Army took the lead after the Great War in dumping cup launchers in favor of the “spigot,” a steel tube of standard outside diameter fitted to the full range of rifles and carbines. It was far more efficient in simplicity, weight reduction and adaptability to all types of rifle grenades that needed only a 22mm inside diameter tailboom for compatibility. This 1951 photo from the Korean War shows a 7th Infantry Division soldier with an M8 launcher clamped to the muzzle of what is most likely an M2 Carbine. Sticking out of the right breast pocket of his field jacket are the tails of what are probably signal grenades, lighter and less prone to destroying the little carbine from launch recoil. (US SIGNAL CORPS PHOTO VIA WIKIMEDIA)

When calling in standard tube-launched mortar fire isn’t fast enough for dealing with nearby Germans, put a 60mm mortar round onto a Grenade Projection Adapter and “bombs away” with your M1 Rifle. This clever improvisation by GIs in WWII further expanded available standard options including anti-tank, anti-personnel, signal and smoke types. (US SIGNAL CORPS/NATIONAL ARCHIVES/AUTHOR’S COLLECTION)

This excellent lineup provided by Inert-Ord.net shows some representative types of US rifle grenades from WWII and on, as well as adapters for firing most all of the the full range of hand grenades. Standing from left to right is the M1 Grenade Projection Adapter, the M1A1 GPA with MKII Fragmentation Hand Grenade, the M2A1 Chemical Grenade Projection Adapter, the M29 Anti-tank Grenade, the M9A1 Anti-tank Grenade, its M11A3 practice version, the M17 Fragmentation Grenade, and the M11 Anti-tank Grenade. Lying down in front is a round-nosed M22 Smoke Grenade (Yellow) and a M19A1 Green Star Parachute Signal. (INERT-ORD.NET)

The Japanese Self-Defense Force is among many modern military forces that still find merit in rifle-launched munitions. This JSDF soldier is preparing to fire a Type 06 rifle grenade from his Howa Type 89 rifle at the 2014 Firepower in Fuji demonstration. (JSDF VIA WIKIMEDIA)

This interesting selection of weaponry used by USAF Air Police in Vietnam for the tough job of defending air bases from attack by fanatical VC and NVA sappers includes both rifle grenades and the hastily fielded XM 148 40mm grenade launcher, mounted underneath an M16 rifle. Lined up on sandbags from left to right is an extremely rare at the time 30-round M16 magazine, 5.56mm blank and ball cartridges, 40mm grenade, bayonet, yellow smoke streamer grenade, 60mm mortar round, frag grenade in projection adapter and a practice version of the M28 HEAT grenade. (USAF/NATIONAL ARCHIVES/AUTHOR’S COLLECTION)

A cutaway drawing of the US M31 HEAT Rifle Grenade reveals the secrets of most every modern one of the type. When the piezoelectric crystal in its nose crushes on impact, an electric charge is sent to the fuze/booster, setting off the shaped charge to blast a superheated jet through as much as 8 inches of armor plate. (US ARMY VIA WIKIMEDIA)

Cup type launchers still find favor for flinging specialized munitions from a variety of shoulder arms as evidenced by a Mossberg shotgun in a training session for “less lethal” applications. Lance Cpl. Grey J. Thurman, a military police officer of the 47th Marine Wing Support Group, 4th platoon, gives instructions to a Moroccan soldier during peace support operations training during African Lion 2012. (USMC STAFF SERGEANT NICHOLAS CLOWARD)

Between imagination and reality, a shadow flickers in the gloom. Your eyes and brain strain for another glimpse. Great white? Enemy diver? Killer whale? In a flash, the living torpedo races in, and a man-made mechanism attached to its head promises agony and death.

The Soviet SPP-1 set off the underwater weapons race in the early 1970s.

In the split-second left, you swing the gun against the water and fire. The monster explodes into a chaotic mist of blood and ragged chunks of flesh. Almost instantly, sharks fight each other to clean the water. And, the monster? The smiling, chirping porpoise of television and movies has morphed into a porpoise with a perverse purpose.

Anyone who follows weapons development knows this is not science fiction. While we thrilled to “Flipper,” 1960s navies, ours and theirs, trained intelligent sea life to serve often deadly purposes, one of the first being attacking hostile divers.

To counter these malicious mammals, or enemy frogmen, friendly divers had few options—single-shot spear guns were really suitable only for hunting fish, although a lucky hit might kill or incapacitate an unprotected diver. Most propelled their spears with large, elastic bands. While freakish guns might attain 30 feet of range, most guns barely managed a dozen feet.

In the 1970s, divers got the Shark Dart. This was a long-handled needle that emptied a cartridge of compressed carbon dioxide into the target. The concept promised a fantastic leap forward; the internal explosion of CO2 would instantly halt the attack and send the sushi flying for the surface. Even better, the CO2 would freeze the point of entry so there would be no cloud of blood and guts to attract predators. In reality, the blast, while incapacitating the fish, usually caused an explosive vomiting of the target’s innards.

SSP-1 darts.

The “bang stick” is still well-known to military and civilian divers. The business end of the device is pressed to the target to fire a firearm cartridge. The hard contact is vital as projectiles alone simply pass through the fish: Much like the shark dart, it is the bang stick’s shock wave and the explosion of expanding gases that do the damage.

Packing a regular gun underwater introduces more problems than rust. Water will stop most handgun bullets in under 10 feet and most rifle bullets in under 20. Water in the bore is a blockage, and many guns will explode if fired with the barrel full of water. Even when the gun is raised into the air, if sufficient water remains in the barrel, the same thing can happen. Capping the muzzle and hoping a chambered cartridge will prevent water entering is only good for the first shot, if it works at all. Ammunition may fail because water has entered it under pressure. Semi- and fully automatic guns have rapidly moving parts, and when water is trapped, say behind a bolt, it can stop the action completely.

The underwater discharge is also hard to conceal. The noise is excruciating for the shooter and anyone nearby. The event creates a lot of gas, and this emerges dramatically as bubbles. And, even underwater, there is flash.

MB Associate’s Lancejet used a rocket-propelled lance.

Solutions can be engineered. Semi- and fully automatic guns can be re-designed to allow water to be expelled. Ammunition can be waterproofed. Suppressors muffle sound, diffuse bubbles and hide the flash. Covers break up the gas bubbles escaping the cylinders of gas-operated guns. Bursting barrels are avoided by cutting grooves into the bore so propellant gases can push ahead of the projectile and eject water out of the bore ahead.

But, the bullets themselves are the real problem. In good conditions, a diver might be able to see a target at 100 feet or more. The energy required to push the water aside and the drag of the turbulence limit the bullet’s range. So, researchers developed projectiles with better underwater ballistics. Most designers arrived at long, nose-heavy, dart-like projectiles launched from smooth bore barrels. These are variously called darts, “nails” and “flechettes,” (French for darts.) Some are stabilized by fins angled to induce rotation. The long lengths of the cartridges and darts dictated some unconventional-looking firearms.

A major improvement was applying the self-sealing cartridge. The idea dates back to at least 1900 when an American, Joseph E. Bissell, patented his invention. His special cartridge propels a bullet by a piston in the casing. The piston is caught in the cartridge neck, or a muzzle trap, and the projectile continues on its way. The flash, bang and smoke are trapped behind the piston, solving several problems.

The piston has launched the dart and been trapped by the front of the case.

The image of desperate hand-to-hand combat in the deep grips the imagination, but development of underwater guns has been spurred just as much by threats from trained mammals like porpoises and sea lions. These animals can be equipped with cameras, weapons, retrieval and capture devices and explosive charges to be delivered, planted, or attached to, ships and submarines or detonated in suicide missions.

The ambitious USN program originally incorporated porpoises, pilot and beluga whales, seals, sea lions and even cormorant diving birds.

The conscripted animals have their own designations according to their specialty. The MK 4 MMS (Marine Mammal System) porpoise finds and marks tethered and floating mines.

The MK 5 MMS is a Sea Lion trained to find various equipment, often training mines. It can easily locate a submarine for rescue or less pleasant purposes.

The MK 6 MMS is a Sea Lion trained to attach a clamp to a diver’s leg. Porpoises and sea lions are adept at locating lost and injured divers. During the Vietnam War, trained porpoises goosed North Vietnamese divers with a barbed hook attached to a balloon to pull them to the surface. This ignominious end was enough to make the NVA give up their attempts.

The MK 7 MMS porpoise seeks mines on the sea bottom. Porpoises’ natural metal detectors can distinguish between metals and even find their targets buried in mud and sand.

The MK 8 MMS porpoise picks safe routes for landing craft heading for the beach.

AAI’s entry in the underwater weapons race used the piston cartridge and enclosed the barrels in a floatation jacket.

When fitted with various handles and harnesses, most MMS can carry cameras, lights and sonar transmitters to “paint” undersea objects.

Trained porpoises can patrol 24/7. Unlike us, they don’t breath automatically, so they have to stay awake to stay alive. But, because they also have to sleep, they put half their brain to sleep; they are ideal government servants.

The U.S. Navy won’t entrust sea mammals to make life-or-death decisions about divers, but at least two Soviet Spetsnaz divers reportedly died in Vietnam when a trained porpoise wrecked their breathing equipment. In the late 1970s, divers of the same Spetsnaz “Delfin” (Russian for Dolphin) program killed several porpoises in Nicaraguan harbors.

In a lighter vein, The Guardian, a stalwart of the British tabloid press, published a report in 2005. A “respected accident investigator” warned the world that U.S. Navy Killer Porpoises armed with toxin-tipped darts had escaped their pens during Hurricane Katrina and might well be stalking wind surfers and divers. No attacks are recorded.

More recently, porpoises have been deployed in the Middle East. The U.S. still uses them to patrol harbors and detect mines. The Palestinian government, Hamas, reported capturing a porpoise off Gaza in 2015 armed with a gun, poison darts and a camera. It was later reported the porpoise was in fact a robot.

The Underwater Defense Gun (UDG).

When the USSR collapsed, Russia dropped their military porpoise program for lack of money. Some animals were sold to Iran while others entertain tourists in the Crimea. Iran still runs a military program.

With economic recovery, Russia revived the porpoise program. This is no reason for porpoises to celebrate. In earlier Russian training, 2000 porpoises allegedly died learning to carry kamikaze charges to ships. (Hopefully a similar program will be introduced for suicide bombers.) Porpoises also carried CO2 lances similar to Shark Darts and were even parachuted into action.

Marine mammals face increasing counter-measures. Electronics can identify “working” creatures and heat-seeking anti-mammal detectors are possible. Armed underwater “drones” and robotic patrolling torpedoes are threats. Electronic measures to “jam” the porpoise’s echo-location abilities and electro-magnetic navigation are likely. Occasional mass beachings have been blamed on experiments with these.

Underwater warriors date back to several hundred years B.C. Various cumbersome systems have existed for centuries, but the first breathing apparatus to enable independent underwater swimmers was developed and exploited by Italian divers just before World War II.

The UDG with the loading gate open and two cylinders.

When it came to arming the divers, Russia took the lead in the 1960s. A major spur was likely the “Buster” Crabb case.

In 1956, the Russian cruiser Sverdlov arrived at Britain’s Portsmouth harbor carrying Nikita Khrushchev on a goodwill visit. It didn’t go well after someone brought up politics during dinner. Two days after the ship departed, the British announced their famed and beloved military diver Lt. Commander Lionel “Buster” Crabb had vanished, coincidently near Portsmouth, while testing new diving equipment. Oddly, swimming proficiency wasn’t required to be a Royal Navy diver, and as Crabb was a terrible swimmer, an accident seemed plausible. Far more likely, Crabb was examining the Russian ship. A year before, on a similar mission in Portsmouth, he had discovered a clever retracting propeller on another Russian warship.

The “accident” story began to unravel a few days later when the angry Soviets said they had spotted a diver near the ship. The press and politicians went wild. Theories included Crabb being dragged through an underwater door in the hull and spirited to Russia to be brain-washed and forced to train Spetsnaz divers. Just over a year later, a body in a navy diving suit was recovered nearby and identified as Crabb’s, despite the absence of head, hands and DNA testing.

The most credible explanation emerged when a former head of Soviet intelligence, by then retired in Israel, reported a Soviet officer on the Sverdlov had seen a diver surface, borrowed a sentry’s rifle and shot the diver in the head. British records of the incident are sealed until 2057.

The Soviet APS followed on the success of the SSP-1.

Whatever the story, the Soviets were soon in search of effective underwater weapons for their 3,000 frogmen. Ivan Kasyanov’s new technology, the supercavitating projectile, put them in the lead.

If you’ve watched an outboard motor, you’ve seen cavitation. Those tiny bubbles materializing from nowhere are actually water vapor. Normally, water boils and becomes vapor (steam to us luddites) at 212 degrees Fahrenheit or 100 degrees Celsius. However, if you ever boiled water at a high altitude, you likely noticed it boiled at a lower temperature. This occurs because the pressure of the atmosphere is lower as you get higher. It is pressure that keeps water from vaporizing—the lower the pressure of air or water, the easier it is for water to vaporize.

A ship’s propeller pulls water from ahead and pushes it out behind. As water passes the propeller blades’ leading edges, the sharp lowering of pressure allows the water to vaporize and form small bubbles. These are swept out behind and quickly collapse with a small pop. The process of forming bubbles is called “cavitation.” The hissing pop is what sub-hunters listen for. As well as noise, cavitation can cause erosion of the propeller, and much effort has been expended to eliminate it. Since higher speeds result in greater cavitation, one answer for submarine designers has been to increase the number of blades. These can then turn more slowly to produce the same thrust without causing cavitation.

The Heckler & Koch P11 was adopted in the west after 1975.

But, cavitation can be very helpful when you want to move something through water at high speed. Instead of using a needle-like, stream-lined dart, Kastanov gave his “flying nail” a purposely blunt tip. When propelled at high-speed, his tip caused a bubble of vapor to form. This stretched back along the sides and encased the entire projectile. Suddenly the nail was flying through thin vapor, not thick water and at a previously unachievable speed. Creating this by design is called supercavitation.

Dmitry Shiryaev of Tula first proposed the four-barreled underwater B-VI-307 gun. It fired Kasyanov’s supercavitating dart with a rocket assist. Combined with Bissel’s self-sealing cartridge, this remarkable device was too complex for easy manufacture, but led directly to the SPP-1, a very similar four-barrel gun.

Designed by Vladimir Simonov (not the SKS Simonov) the SPP-1 is still produced at Tula as the updated SPP-1M and sold internationally. Each barrel holds a cartridge firing a supercavitating dart from a self-sealing cartridge. The trigger is double-action. Each pull cocks and releases a striker to fire a new round from one of the smooth-bore barrels. Shots are deadly out to 60 or more feet in shallow water and roughly the same in the air. The operator breaks open the weapon to load a cluster of four rounds. The gun was adopted by the Soviets in 1971 and soon copied by the Chinese as the Type QSS05.

The P11 cylinder is replaced as a unit.

The U.S. was also busy. Early experiments followed the Soviet flirtation with rocket-propelled weapons and with the same mixed results. MB Associates, makers of the unique Gyrojet, displayed an underwater model of their pistol in the 1960s.

AAI Corp. (founded as Aircraft Armaments, Inc.) patented a design in 1969 by Irwin. R. Barr, a founder and CEO of AAI. The design surrounded the six rotating barrels with a thick floatation jacket. Again, a self-sealing cartridge was used to propel a dart.

The American Mk1 Mod 0 Underwater Defense Gun (UDG) followed in the early 1970s. The Mk1 Mod 0 is a six-barreled pepperbox. The six-barrel cylinder is inserted through a hinged door on the left of the gun and rotates inside with each double-action pull of the guardless trigger. Each of the six barrels is loaded individually with a stainless steel Mk. 59 Mod 0 cartridge. When a firing pin strikes the primer, the propelling charge launches a 4.25-inch dart. The propellant gases remain trapped in the self-sealing, barrel-length casing, and there is little signature of bubbles, flash or noise. From the mid-70s to the mid-80s, it was available to American divers and special operators. It was so well-cloaked, the U.S. Navy sent a photographer to photograph its rare UDG example specially for this article.

When the German Heckler& Koch (HK) P11 became available after 1976, 100 were acquired by the USN to replace the Mk1 Mod O. The HK P11 is a five-shot dart firing weapon. Unlike the American Mk1 Mod 0, the barrels do not rotate. Each self-sealing cartridge is fired in turn by electrical impulse. The individual barrels are not user-reloadable like the American gun, but the barrel cluster is easily replaced with a fresh one. The used assembly can be returned to HK for reloading in training but is expendable in combat.

The business end of the P11 showing the darts have pierced their seals.

The success of the Soviet SPP-1M led to the development and adoption of the Soviet APS underwater rifle. This was another Simonov design. It is gas-operated with an AK-style rotary bolt. It was adopted in 1975 and looks like an assault rifle with a massive magazine. The unique magazine shape is the result of the magazine spring and follower at the rear. Like the SPP-1M, it was made at Tula and sold internationally. It fires from an open bolt and has a smoothbore barrel. The receiver is cut away to allow water to get out of the way of the bolt. The mag holds 26 120mm-long, 5.6mm rounds with steel darts. A gas regulator lets the gun be adjusted for depth. In depths of less than 20 feet, it can reach out an impressive 100 feet. Go below 100 feet in depth and the effective range drops off to under 40 feet. Communist China produced a copy of the Soviet gun called the QBS-06. The Chinese version holds 25 rounds in a magazine that dispenses with the distinctive second square of the APS mag.

For divers guarding ships and installations underwater, the APS was fine, but the gun’s performance and short life when fired in the open air precluded it as a dual-purpose assault weapon. A diver boarding a boat or heading for land combat had to carry both a dedicated underwater gun and a terrestrial assault rifle sealed in a plastic bag.

In the 1990s, Russia offered up a combination underwater and open air weapon. This is termed the “dual-medium” ASM-DT, the “medium” being water and air. The ASM-DT has two magazines set side-by-side and fires either underwater darts or normal 5.45mm AK-74 ammunition through the same barrel. The operator chooses which he wants to fire. The rifling is shallow so as to approximate a smooth bore for the darts but deep enough to provide spin for the 5.45mm. The ASM-DT bore has additional grooves to allow gas to flow ahead of the bullet and blow water from the barrel.

The long darts are housed in the same magazine used by the APS, and the everyday 5.45mm rounds use a standard AK-74 magazine. The weapon has a folding stock and can be dressed with accessories from grenade launchers to scopes to silencers. Known as the “Sea Lion,” the ASM-DT entered service in 2000. It appears various “shorty” models have been tried. And yes, there is a self-sealing grenade cartridge.

The next breakthrough in a dual-medium assault weapon appeared in 2013. The new Russian ADS uses a supercavitating bullet and eliminates the need for the long darts and dual magazines of the ASM-DT. The new bullpup fires a special 5.45mm round that reaches out to 75 feet underwater. The gun can fire the new bullet or regular 5.45mm interchangeably from its 30-round magazine. International sales are being courted.

The Russian ADS fires a 5.45mm supercavitating bullet.

A major plus of supercavitating ammunition is its ability to enter or exit water without deflection. The projectiles can be fired from underwater at targets above, or, because it works both ways, shipboard weapons can fire at incoming torpedoes. The velocities attainable also mean a diver or robot can fire a lethal underwater shot into the most massive submarine.

The Norwegian firm of DSG Technology has sold its CAV-X Multi-Environment Ammunition (MEA) to several clients, the U.S. among them. The projectiles can be fired from standard weapons. They are stabilized by spin imparted from the weapon’s rifling and are as effective as regular ammunition on land. The .50 bullet can travel up to 200 feet underwater, the 7.62 NATO about 70 feet and 5.56 close to 50 feet. Smaller calibers are offered as are larger examples up to 127mm. It is being made in the U.S. and is in current American inventory.

In the 1990s, the Soviet VA-111 “Shkval” supercavitating torpedo awed the west. A nozzle in the nose shoots out a small portion of exhaust to be swept back along the body. The torpedo moves through bubbles at reported speeds of 230mph.

This active cavitation method isn’t limited to torpedoes. At least one U.S. patent was granted in 2005 for an underwater projectile that relies on self-contained jet propulsion for forward motion while a vent in the nose allows some of the exhaust to exit to the front and form bubbles much like the Soviet torpedo. This system can enable friction-reduced passage and longer ranges at lower speeds where cavitation wouldn’t otherwise occur.

The future of underwater firearms will no doubt hold more technical advances, but the range of current weapons already exceeds a diver’s vision underwater. As target detection and identification evolves, newer types of weapons may be attached to trained creatures, drones, buoys or vessels’ hulls and divers. As long as someone has to go in the water, underwater firearms will be with us.

All photos are used with permission. My thanks to Lt. Benjamin T. Anderson, Joseph “Jay” Bauser, Mel Carpenter, Guy N. Dentay, Vitaly Kuzmin, Max Popenker, James Samalea, Lt. Mary L. Sanford, Dan Shea, Paul Taylor, Joseph Trevithick, Movie Armaments Group and the late R. Blake Stevens.

Terry Edwards has done numerous articles for Soldier of Fortune, Small Arms Review and Small Arms Defense Journal. His books are available on Kindle.

Combat Ability 24/7

The sniper teams have to operate regardless of light and weather conditions. Night vision devices provide enormous benefits. They enable personnel to carry out operations under conditions that would not otherwise be possible. However, these benefits carry considerable risks. For instance, individuals often become over confident about their ability to use image intensification and infrared devices. In consequence, the use of night vision equipment is an increasingly common factor in military incidents and accidents. Fire ‘Blue’ against ‘Blue’ or innocent civilians is intolerable, even at night.

Clear identification of the enemy has become vital. Armies have invested heavily to procure ever better night-vision systems and improved training for night combat. Night vision capability enables soldiers to see their surroundings in low or no light conditions, but that’s not good enough. Soldiers must have night combat capability which enables them to take aim and to operate their weapons or weapon system effectively in no light conditions.

This article describes different night vision technology and some night vision goggles.

Different Systems

Light Intensifier (I²): There is usually always a little bit of light, even from the moon or stars, so these systems intensify the little light that there is to give an image. However, they will not function inside a dark room, for example, and will require the use of IR beamers. Photons in the near-infrared spectrum (approx. 750 to 950nm), which is invisible to the human eye, are collected and collimated in the objective lens and converted by a photocathode into electrons. A micro-channel plate then amplifies these electrons by a zillion-fold and transforms them into visible light appearing on a phosphor screen. According to the laws of optics, the resulting image is upside down and must be turned around with another lens in front of the eyepiece. The assembly of the photocathode, micro-channel plate and phosphor screen is called a “tube.”

Infrared Detectors are based on the principle of thermography. They respond to emanations in the medium IR-spectrum (3,000 to 5,000nm) from objects of differing temperatures and convert temperature differences into an image even in total darkness. Compared to light intensifiers, infrared detectors do without low light or artificial light sources, provide larger effective ranges and have proven to be significantly superior in detecting human targets and identifying vehicle targets. The range of application of this technology covers all conceivable platform-based and platform-independent systems. The image is produced by displaying in different grey scales or pseudo colors the thermal differences in the observed environment. In general, two categories of infrared detectors can be distinguished: cooled and uncooled.

Cooled Infrared Detectors work with a micro-bolometer, an infrared imaging sensor that converts infrared radiation into visible images by heating the proton when it hits the detector. Cooled infrared detectors have the advantage that they sense and depict environmental temperature differences much more precisely than I². Accordingly, they detect and identify potential targets at a much greater distance than non-cooled devices. Before they can display an image, the sensors of a cooled infrared detector have to be brought to their respective operating temperature. This consumes both time and energy. While the cooling process with previous generation devices took several minutes, modern devices are operable after no more than a few seconds. The older additional cooling system made these devices heavier, more energy-consuming and more expensive compared to uncooled systems. However, the state-of-the-art enables the production of compact cooled infrared detectors with a total weight of less than 2kg, making this technology also suitable for infantry operations. Handheld or weapon-attached observation devices enable the detection and identification of individuals at maximum ranges of 4,000m and 1,500m, respectively.

Uncooled Infrared Detectors: Doing away with the cooling system and the attached power supply not only lowers the purchase price, it also allows a significantly more compact infrared detector design with a total weight of just a few hundred grams. Yet this cost saving is bought at the expense of performance. Individuals can be detected and identified only at maximum ranges of 1,800m and 500m, respectively.

Modern Night Vision Goggles

Night vision goggles are available in generation 1, 2 and 3 technologies. Irrespective of their generation, all modern NVGs are based on the same functional principle: Photons in the near-infrared spectrum (approx. 750 to 950nm), which is invisible to the human eye, are collected and collimated in the objective lens and converted by a photocathode into electrons. A micro-channel plate then amplifies these electrons by a zillion-fold and transforms them into visible light appearing on a phosphor screen. According to the laws of optics, the resulting image is upside down and must be turned around with another lens in front of the eyepiece. The assembly of photocathode, micro-channel plate and phosphor screen is called a “tube.” Night goggles are available in four configurations: monocular, binocular, binocular and quad-eye and are worn using a headset or mounted on a helmet.

Monocular Goggle

The monocular goggle is basically the hand held monocular but worn on the head. It’s usually the least expensive of the night goggle types, but you still look through it using only one eye.

Biocular Goggle

The biocular goggle configuration is basically a night vision monocular with two eye pieces. It’s easier to use than a monocular because the user doesn’t have to keep one eye closed when using. The two-eyepiece lense makes it appear more natural to the wearer of the goggles. Nonetheless, such goggles fail to provide a stereoscopic view, especially at close range.

Binocular Goggle

Binoculars represent a third type of goggles. The two synchronized channels of such binocular goggles produce an image that agrees considerably more with reality than monocular or biocular goggles do. As such goggles correctly indicate ranges, they can also be worn by vehicle drivers. The use of a second tube makes these goggles almost twice as expensive to procure but offers the advantage of retaining a monocular night vision capability for the soldier should one of the tubes fail.

Quad-Eye Goggles

Quad-eye goggles are currently right out in front of the light-intensifier evolution and are therefore issued only to Special Forces, like the Seal Team 6-Operation “Neptune Spear” [Osama bin Laden]. Four separate and synchronized input channels generate a horizontal field of vision of more than 90 degrees which comes closest to the natural 120-degree field of view of human beings (Source: IEA MIL-OPTICS GmbH/Waldemar Geiger, Mittler Report Verlag GmbH).

Quad-Eye Goggles GPNVG-18 by L-3 Warrior System

These provide the warrior with more information seen in the goggles, allowing him to quickly move through the OODA process (Observe, Orient, Decide and Act). The GPNVG-18 by L-3 Warrior System has four separate image intensifier tubes with four separate objective lenses. The whole package weighs just over 700g which is considerably lighter than many monoculars. The central two lenses point forward like traditional dual-tube goggles, giving the operator more depth perception, while the tubes on either side point outward from the center to increase peripheral view. The two tubes on the right and the two on the left are spliced at the eyepieces. The operator sees the images from the two outer tubes slightly overlapping those of the two central ones providing him with an unprecedented 97o field of view. The two right and two left tubes are housed in merged assemblies but can be detached and operated as independent handheld viewers. The GPNVG-18 is powered by a remote battery pack and tethered to the unit via a standard cable. Battery life is approximately 30 hours; immersion in1m provides 2 hours.

Multi-function

In addition to the functions offered by the mono-function, these systems also include a GPS and a magnetic compass, so that the user knows where he is and in which direction the target lies, and a laser telemetry system to know how far away the target is. At the press of a button the user will get all the coordinates of the target. He can send these to his commanding officer together with a photograph of what he can see. The systems are thus part of a Battle Management System.

Quad-eye goggles are currently right out in front of the light intensifier evolution and are therefore issued only to Special Forces. (TOM WEBER, MIL PICTURES/IEA MIL-OPTICS GmbH)

Harris F6044, Generation 3

This Tactical Mobility Night Vision Goggle (TM-NVG) is part of the i-Aware® family F6044 Series of advanced, multi-purpose night vision products connecting the battlefield user with various applications, as well as command headquarters, to enhance situational awareness. As part of a complete soldier system or as a stand-alone night vision goggle, i-Aware TM-NVG increases operational effectiveness in both nighttime and daytime missions and provides the soldier with real-time video access to critical tactical intelligence. i-Aware TM-NVG offers integrated, color imagery display and camera capture export capabilities. The configuration has these features:

• Provides enhanced tactical command and control for improved decision-making
• Allows tactical commanders real-time access to live soldier video feeds
• Enables viewing GPS, mapping, command text message and target information along with video input from weapon sights to “shoot around the corner”
• Integrates a camera system to capture and export live video from the warrior’s viewpoint
• The TM-NVG has an image field-of-view greater than 40o
• The battery life is (image intensified only) is greater than 15 hours
• The system weight is less than 2.2lb (1,000g) includes primary and secondary monocular (can be tilted up).

Fused Goggle System (FGS)

By combination of the light amplification capability of the image intensification device with the heat sensing capability of the thermal imaging system, fused goggle systems allow the operator to adjust the viewed image from 100% Image Intensification (I²) to 100% Thermal, or a varying mix of the two. The system amplifies available light and thermal signatures and fuses them together to produce a clear image under adverse conditions enabling target identification in light rain, smoke, snow, low light and total darkness. The FGS provides image resolution in situations where active infrared illumination is not an option.

Thales Group’s MINIE-D/IR Connected Fused Sensors NVG

The MINIE-D/IR is an image intensified (I²) night vision goggle associated to an uncooled thermal (IR) imaging module which allows it to fuse thermal and intensified images. This innovation by Thales offers to the soldier new capabilities essential to modern warfare.

The display presents an IR image in three available modes: “Full IR,” “Threshold” or “Contours,” with distinct colors for IR and I² allowing a more accurate interpretation of the fused image. This gives the warrior a unique de-camouflage capability and optimal situational awareness.

Key features:

• Magnification 1x, field of view I² 51°, focus range 20cm to infinity, diopter adjustment -6 to +3 diopters, eye relief 20mm
  I² Tube Gen. II or Gen. III, optional brightness gain, manually adjustable
• Field of view IR 36° (diagonal) IR sensor, field of view (data) 42.5° (diagonal), video input/video feeds (color)/overlay of data on IR image
• Weight 500g, battery life at 20°C (I² only /I²+IR), with single battery pack 40h/2.5h, with power supply pack 150h/18h
• Operating temperature -32°C to +44°C; storage temperature -46°C to +70°C; water immersion 1m for 2 hours.

Other features include built-in infrared illuminator with «IR-on» indicator, automatic cut-off in high light conditions and stowed position, “low battery” indicator and video setting mode (brightness, contrast, IR superimposing).

BAE Systems Combines NVGs with Thermal Targeting

Night vision and infrared detector attachments with crosshairs enable the soldiers to fight under limited visibility conditions, but they cannot be used in connection with night vision goggles. The shooter is forced to turn up his goggles every time before he takes his shooting position. This drawback not only involves additional motoric effort but also the loss of the panoramic field of view as the shooter has only the tunnel-type vision through the eyepiece. BAE Systems’ ENVG III / FWS-I integrated night vision solution wirelessly connects the goggle and weapon sight and provides rapid target acquisition capabilities. One of the key benefits of the ENVG/FWS-I solution is that it enables soldiers to acquire targets without putting their head in harm’s way.

L-3 Warrior System–Ground Panoramic Night Vision Goggle. (EA MIL-OPTICS GmbH)

Conclusion

Night time combat requires full operational effectiveness in varying environments. Image Intensifiers (I²) require some ambient illumination to operate effectively, but they are defeated by excess light such as from street lights or headlights, camouflage, vegetation, insufficient light on cloudy moonless nights, fog/smoke or complete darkness inside buildings. Thermal imaging is independent of light and operates in any level of darkness, fog or smoke but does not identify the features and textures shown by I².

The solution is to combine thermal imaging with image intensification for fused night vision in low light and complete darkness. Fused I2 and thermal technology is therefore ideal for dusk to night, heavy cloud coverage, forests/jungles and inside buildings as well as well-lit nighttime urban environments when over-amplification of light sources (e.g., car headlamps/streetlights) causes I2 devices to fail.

Fused night vision technology is the new standard for military operations to give 24-hour operational capability. The color fusion of low-light visible and thermal infrared imagery in real time has created a new era in night vision.

MINIE-D/IR Connected Fused Sensors Night Vision Goggle

Ultimate sensors’ combination enabling de-camouflage of potential threats while preserving mobility. Fast and easy mounting of the IR plug-in onto MINIE-D, in less than 5 seconds, to obtain genuine thermal imaging capability, improved situational awareness in any battlefield conditions. Has four available configurations–IL or IR only, fused IL/IR and video feeds display–according to every mission requirement. Various IR image display modes (Full IR, Threshold, Contours) to enhance target detection.

Outline.

Full IR and optically fused.

De-camouflage capacity.

It began as furtive whispers at the SHOT Show and hushed conversations in the back corners of gun shops across our storied land. “I hear Glock is making a single-stack carry gun. Do you think it’s really true?” was the gist. We diehard gun nerds were veritably apoplectic with anticipation.

The Glock is as much a phenomenon as a handgun. The name would have seemed nonsensical in the 1970s, not unlike fahrvergnugen or Schwarzenegger. Nowadays, that blocky plastic handgun is a ubiquitous feature any place people tend to shoot each other. This lightweight, uber-reliable smoke pole has set the industry standard for rugged functionality. With no extraneous switches one need only point and click to get the job done. The thing even runs underwater.

For all its undeniable Teutonic charm, however, those early Glock pistols were bulky contrivances. The G17 was a service pistol designed to ride on your hip or thigh in a proper holster. As thick as a good-sized banana and about as long, Gaston’s early efforts were just not terribly concealable. Then in 2015 Glock released the slim, single-stack 9mm G43, and the earth moved just a little bit.

The Full Monty from TangoDown includes an extended magazine release, an improved slide release lever, an upgraded back plate for the slide and an extended magazine upgrade kit.

Pertinent Particulars

Compared to previous full-sized Glocks the G43 was positively anorexic. The gun is just over an inch wide at the slide release, while the slide remains even skinnier. At a tad over 6 inches long and 4 inches high the G43 seemed destined for every Law Enforcement ankle holster in the country. Considering 65% of America’s cops pack Glock service pistols it seemed a natural fit. For all its way-cool awesomonium, however, there still remains a place or two wherein the gleaming G43 might well yet be improved upon.

The first issue was magazine capacity. Where most of the competition packed seven rounds or more into their compact little grips, Glock issued the G43 with six. New math tells us that this is the same capacity as such storied six-gun back-ups as the venerable Smith J-frame. Additionally, while the G43 was clearly designed for concealment, this meant that the slide release seemed a bit small, particularly for those of us with big monkey mitts. The stock Glock sights hardly set the world ablaze as well.

While the HK VP70 was technically first to the party, it was Glock that really weaponized polymer for use in handgun frames. However, despite several decades of experience, that original G43 grip could still be made “grippier.” As is always the case with American consumer goods, capitalism cranked up its inimitable engine and aftermarket widgets expanded to fill the subsequent void.

The TangoDown Extended magazine upgrade consists of a new bulbous floor plate, a replacement magazine spring and a new spring retainer plate.

TangoDown and Larry Vickers

Terrorists are Tangoes in today’s military vernacular. TangoDown is grunt-speak for, “Don’t fret about that Bad Guy any more.” The company that adopted the name is renowned for their well-reasoned combat gear. The singular inspiration behind their Glock stuff is Larry Vickers.

Larry is a bit of an institution in the modern world of armed combat. A career veteran of SFOD-Delta, Larry took part in Operation Acid Gambit, the Delta Force operation to rescue Kurt Muse from his Panamanian prison. He also served during Desert Storm and trained the guys who captured Saddam Hussein and killed his two reprobate sons. In addition, Larry helped design the HK416, the premiere combat rifle among the world’s Tier 1 Special Operators. Larry’s operational experience tempers the gear he helps conjure up for your working guns.

Once upgraded the G43 looks about the same but runs faster and better. The laser-etched grip enhancements from DSP Laser follow the gun’s contours and leave the logos and switches unmolested.

Morphological Details

The new magazine release sticks out just far enough for quick and easy manipulation without being bulky enough to catch on stuff. The difference is not stark, but it is significant. Swapping out the catch requires a little body English, but it’s not hard.

The extended slide release is comparably well-reasoned and a bit easier to install. The thumb finds this appendage incrementally quicker and easier than is the case with the standard component, but the design is such that it still does not snag on things. The end result rides comfortably underneath your right thumb for quicker activation.

The replacement rear plate is just neat as can be. This device incorporates nifty little ears that compliment the gun’s existing slide gripping grooves. Like the rest of this gear, it hits the Goldilocks spot. The ears are just big enough to grab without being so bulky as to slow the draw or hang on anything. You can swap this piece out with nothing more than a ballpoint pen.

Arguably the most critical upgrade is the extended magazine floorplate. This kit consists of a bulbous finger rest floorplate along with a replacement magazine spring. It likewise can be installed with nothing more than the aforementioned ballpoint pen. Once in place the extended magazine makes the gun much easier to grip and offers another pair of rounds on tap. I have seen quite a few live shootings with the 9mm. Those two spare rounds could come in real handy if your opponent is large, exceptionally motivated, stoned or accompanied by like-minded pals.

It took me maybe 20 minutes to swap all this stuff out. Any three-thumbed ape can pull it off with a little patience and a punch. If you don’t already speak Glock fluently there is always the miracle of YouTube.

The TangoDown back plate is easily installed and includes nifty little ears to enhance your purchase when sweaty or rushed.

Beauty is Only Skin Deep and Seeing in the Dark

Lots of folks have offered to take your raw Glock frame and make it into something grippier. Many to most of those operations leave your gun looking like it was heartlessly abused by a rabid kindergartener wielding a soldering iron. In DSP Laser we find something way better. Inspired, designed and controlled by humans, this upgrade is executed by very precise machines.

To unleash DSP Laser on your Glock is to have the surface festooned with perfectly replicated interlocking arrow shapes. They can do the sides of the grips as well as the front and back straps. The etchings are just deep enough to be effective without being excessive. Also, if I can wax sophomoric for a moment, the resulting effect looks just crazy cool. Once DSP Laser gets done with your frame you will think you have a whole new gun.

XS Sights offers their esteemed DXW Big Dot replacement sights for the G43. These well conceived night sights include an unobtrusive V-notch rear component along with a massive Tritium-infused front dot, both of which are snag-free and indestructible. Installation is utterly painless, and the radioactive combination leaves your favorite pocket Glock nicely night-capable.

The TangoDown back plate is easily installed and includes nifty little ears to enhance your purchase when sweaty or rushed.

Synergy

The Glock 43 is a respectable heater right out of the box. Small, well-reasoned, reliable and handy, this ubiquitous single-stack 9mm carry gun rode for years in my favorite Wilderness Tactical ankle rig as I wandered about my little world. The gun is lightweight and powerful. However, after unleashing TangoDown, DSP Laser and XS Sights on it my G43 becomes so much more.

The replacement back plate puts the gun into action faster even when sweaty or rushed. The extended magazine release drops your empties more readily, while the enhanced slide release closes the action faster and easier on a fresh mag. The differences in these cases are nuances, but nuances are important in the world of armed combat.

Two spare rounds on board bring your overall capacity to 17, presuming you pack a spare. The surface treatment from DSP Laser locks the gun into your grip way better than it ever was not thusly adorned. The brilliant glowing front dot from XS Sights puts the gun on target quickly day or night. The synergistic end result enhances speed as well as confidence in the weapon. All the while it retains the modest dimensions and superb carry-ability for which the G43 is justifiably renowned. These well-reasoned upgrades leave your back-up gun running as nicely as your primary.

The TangoDown enhanced slide release is incrementally more accessible than the stock version without being so big as to catch on stuff.

The extended magazine does make the gun a bit tougher to hide on your ankle. However, if this is your mission you can always pack the pistol with a flush fit mag and then keep the extended spare on your belt. With Gaston Glock’s inimitable raw material as a starting point, this tricked-out mini-Glock becomes the Ultimate Fighting Machine. Quite literally nothing I have found in its class runs better.

A pocket-sized defensive gun is like a parachute. In a perfect world you will never even touch it for real. However, if ever you must, then that tiny cell phone-sized gun will become the absolute center of your universe. I wouldn’t cut corners on a cardiac pacemaker, climbing rope or medication for my kids. When it comes to a combat pistol I might actually use to defend my person and my family, I want it done up right. I let TangoDown, DSP Laser and XS Sights maximize my favorite pocket Glock and then pack it with the best expanding ammunition money can buy. I subsequently feel fully prepared to cope with whatever unpleasantness life might throw at me.

Once installed these various upgraded components maximize the Glock 43 handgun.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

www.tangodown.com
www.dsplaser.com
www.xssights.com
www.thewilderness.com

Innovations in AR Platform and Optics Make a Perfect Team

The urge to take advantage of AR modularity, ergonomics, optics mounting and accuracy with cartridges other than 5.56mm cartridge has constantly appealed to the shooting community. CMMG has experience with this in the form of their highly successful Mk47 Mutant 7.62×39 and MkW ANVIL .458 SOCOM rifles. CMMG has taken this a step further with their new MkG GUARD platform.

The CMMG MkG GUARD is not merely another 9mm blowback AR-pattern weapon. CMMG has designed a patent pending Radial Delayed Blowback (RDB) operating system. The advantages are numerous for both manufacturer and, more importantly, the user. CMMG is able to reduce manufacturing cost by using similar tooling, methods, parts and techniques familiar to the AR-15 versus the hunk of metal typical of the bolt group from previous blowback AR SMG models. The user is rewarded with a 9mm AR rifle that is not only lighter overall but also offers lighter recoil during use. This is because a heavy bolt mass is no longer needed to control pressures as in a strictly blowback operating method.

The CMMG RDB rotates and unlocks (a la AR-15) before cycling to the rear versus just moving rearward upon a round being fired and thus slows the bolt carrier group enough to allow pressure to drop, allowing for safe functioning. The CMMG MkG GUARD’s bolt carrier is much lighter than a 9mm AR using standard blowback method. This translates into less recoil and a more controllable rifle in rapid fire since the pound or more metal mass is no longer recoiling rearward then slamming forward again.

CMMG MkG 9mm GUARD AR pistol with a Vortex Razor AMG UH-1 optic mounted combine for a near perfect tandem.

A trend that can be no longer ignored or dismissed as a passing fad is the number of pistol models stemming from what was typically associated with rifle pattern weapons via removing the buttstock. AR-type pistols are dominating this genre via weapons featuring shorter than 16-inch barrels sans any rifle stock; only the buffer tube is protruding from the rear of the receiver. The AR buffer tube soon proved an advantage on these large pistols for numerous reasons. The buffer tube appendage was adapted to accommodate various types of braces to aid in supporting large, non-typical handgun forms.

The author tested the GUARD PSB 9mm model pistol with brace, featuring Magpul MOE pistol grip and KAK Shockwave Stabilizer and Tube. The 8-inch, 4140 medium taper barrel and 7075-T6 billet lower and forged upper contributed to a weight of 5 pounds. Dimension of the GUARD is 24 inches.

CMMG wisely decided to utilize GLOCK magazines with the MkG and not some proprietary feeding device. GLOCK magazines are known for their reliability plus are abundant and reasonably priced. I know what most of you are thinking. Yes, the GLOCK 33-round stick magazines are a perfect companion for the CMMG MkG GUARD. The MkG GUARD accommodates the GLOCK magazines with a bolt-catch linkage (patent pending) that locks the bolt rearward after the last round and is released simply by pushing an oversized released button. More attention to detail is found with the integrated, oversized trigger guard and a flared magwell machined into the billet 7075 aluminum lower.

The CMMG 9mm GUARD comes threaded in the popular 1/2-28 9mm caliber suppressor pattern. As we know, a 9mm is the perfect candidate for suppressor use considering that most of the 147 grain loadings are subsonic. CMMG offers an optional Action Tuning Kit for the MkG GUARD that allows you to adjust the action for either light loads, hot loads or suppressor use via a simple method of adding weight to the bolt carrier.

Many will question the utility of employing a pistol cartridge in a rifle-sized pattern weapon. Why not just use a rifle round? Some would argue that most engagements happen well within a 100-yard range, especially in a civilian setting, and that handling and reliability play more of a factor in quick, reactive engagements than specific caliber used. Also, less experienced shooters will find the lower recoil pulse (especially with the CMMG MkG) and muzzle blast of a shoulder-fired pistol caliber easier to manage, which often times will translate into better accuracy potential. Will a rifle hit with more authority than a 9mm? Yes; however, the advantage of carrying a handgun and pistol brace carbine using the same, easy-to-acquire and relatively inexpensive ammunition and magazines should not be underestimated. Not to delve off into worst case scenarios, but too many people are stocking up ammunition, food and weapons in these times of worry to totally discount the sentiment.

The Vortex Razor AMG UH-1 is Vortex’s entry into the holographic red dot sight genre. The UH-1 features Vortex’s patent pending FHQ (Fusion Hologram) Technology and Armor-Tek coatings for lenses. A USB port allows for recharging with certain battery types.

Many will turn to the 9mm CMMG MkG GUARD for the reduced recoil and muzzle blast represented in lieu of the increasingly popular short-barreled pistol brace weapons chambered in 5.56mm, 6.8 SPC or 7.62×51.

A Vortex Razor AMG UH-1 holographic was mounted in support of T&E. The Vortex UH-1 is Vortex’s entry into the holographic red dot sight genre. The UH-1 features Vortex’s patent pending FHQ (Fusion Hologram) Technology and Armor-Tek coatings for lenses. Even if the window is shattered or is partially obstructed by mud, snow or rain, it can still function. As long as the operator can see through any portion of the window, the entire reticle pattern remains visible on the target. The interior chamber of the optic is Argon gas-purged. Vortex has addressed eyepiece glare, a problem with some other holographic red dots. This assists in efficiency in low-light use. This feature is combined with Vortex’s innovative Fusion Hologram to provide a clear reticle in a variety of lighting conditions with 15 brightness options.

The Vortex UH-1 holographic reticle has a (1) MOA center dot, surrounded by a larger circle. There are hash marks at the 9:00, 12:00 and 3:00 positions for additional sighting reference and finally a small triangle in the 6:00 opening that is specifically designed to be a CQB sighting reference to account for bore-to-sight, off-set at ranges 7 yards and in. The Razor AMG UH-1 is designed to have a lower 1/3 co-witness with standard iron sights. Vortex has moved all the electronic components for the holographic sight into an enclosed and integrated base. The company calls this “Quantum Well Technology.” The Razor UH-1’s external surfaces are non-glare, and the lenses have anti-reflective coating. Another important and often overlooked advantage of the holographic sight is that the projected reticle is visible to only the operator.

Vortex has addressed battery life for the Razor AMG UH-1 via integrated on-mount charging capability. While a lithium CR123A battery gives a respectable 1600 hours of life, with a built-in, 14-hour cut-off if the UH-1 is inadvertently left on, rechargeable LFP123A batteries can be serviced with a USB cable without even having to remove the sight from the weapon. These batteries offer 800 hours of use between recharging. Anecdotally, the battery is placed transverse in the Razor UH-1 to avoid stressing the contact springs during recoil.

An assortment of both Federal Premium self-defense JHP and FMJ ammunition was used while evaluating the CMMG MkG 9mm GUARD including Hornady Custom 115 grain XTP, Federal Premium 124 grain Hydra Shok, Winchester 147 grain, SIG SAUER 115 grain FMJ and V-Crown JHP. Firing was at a relatively steady pace with the MkG on plate racks, dueling trees and other drills. The CMMG GUARD had no issue digesting JHP-profile bullets. This is an important issue as LE agencies and civilians use expanding ammunition to limit over-penetration in CQB situations, not to mention to increase terminal effectiveness.

CMMG MkG 9mm GUARD AR pistol is a compact companion.

Drills around barricades and vehicles had the CMMG MkG/Vortex Razor combo showing its merit. After all, the MkG pistol is a 5-pound, AR-pattern weapon with a short barrel which is known for excellent ergonomics and handling. This mated well with the holographic Vortex Razor UH-1 advantages of wide field of view and head’s-up display reticle projection that fighter pilots use. It creates an accurate image of the aiming reticle even in poor-visibility conditions like rain, snow, darkness or cloud cover and no matter where the shooter’s eye is located. The Razor UH-1’s housing disappears, and the reticle just floats superimposed over the target. The small 1-MOA dot in the center is easily seen in the brightest sunlight thanks to 15 adjustment levels.

It was surprising how simple it was to shoot accurately while moving with the MkG. This is surely a result of CMMG’s Radial Delayed Blowback (RDB) operating system managing recoil as designed and use of the Vortex Razor UH-1 optic. For comparison’s sake, a blowback 9mm AR was brought to one of the range sessions. CMMG’s representations about lighter felt recoil and being able to control the MkG during rapid strings of fire were borne out.

The CMMG MkG 9mm GUARD proved accurate and durable during testing at Echo Valley Training Center with nearly 550 rounds fired over multiple range visits. The GUARD delivers on its promises of reduced recoil and muzzle climb; this makes a user more effective in engaging targets in a rapid fashion. The ability of the MkG GUARD to interact so well with the GLOCK-chambered 9mm handguns has to be viewed favorably with so many departments already issuing G17 or G19 handguns to their personnel. This will no doubt also influence private citizens to consider it a viable option to combine CMMG MkG and GLOCK weapons.

The inherent familiarity most have with the AR platform, not to mention the GUARD’s ergonomics, validates CMMG’s decision to continue to enhance it via caliber expansion. There are many situations in which a 9mm-braced pistol AR-type weapon could be very advantageous. The increase in terrorism and acts of mass violence means that something with more range than a handgun is a welcome addition to one’s personal armory. The compact stature of the MkG 9mm GUARD allows for easy transport in a smaller-than-expected package. In designing and building the MkG 9mm GUARD, CMMG has taken a proven weapons system and made it better. The CMMG MkG GUARD places real tactical power in a compact, accurate and reliable package.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

CMMG
cmmginc.com

Vortex Optics
vortexoptics.com

Echo Valley Training Center
echovalleytraining.com

SIG SAUER
sigsaur.com

Black Hills Ammunition
black-hills.com

Federal Premium
federalpremium.com

Hornady Mfg. Inc.
hornady.com

Fusion Goggle—Enhanced

The L-3 Warrior Systems, Insight Operations’ Fusion Goggle–Enhanced (FGE) is a helmet-mounted, dual waveband goggle which is smaller and lighter than its FGS predecessors.

By incorporating the latest in technology developments, the FGE, compared to the FGS-PI, boasts over a 20% reduction in both size and weight. The FGE provides targeting and identification in all battlefield conditions and light levels. The FGE uses image intensification technology fused with thermal imagery, thereby bridging the gap in performance and capability for both of these sensors. The FGE is based upon the combat-proven Insight FGS and is compatible with aiming lasers in the 820–850nm range. The FGE has a dual waveband helmet-mounted goggle providing improved situational awareness, targeting and identification over standard night vision goggles. It incorporates two high-performance ETO (L3 electron tube operations) 18mm I2 tubes and an L-3 IRP 17µm FPA (focal plane array) fused into the right eye. The objective focus adjustment is from 18 inches to infinity. It’s fully qualified per MIL-STD-810E. When helmet-mounted, it’s adjustable for operator comfort. The FGE is compatible with a wireless pod and interoperable with mission computers, externally generated super video graphics array (SVGA) data and full-motion video receivers, etc. Its weight is 1.4lb (0.635kg) goggle only, excluding the helmet-mount hardware, power-plate hardware, cold-weather battery pack and power cable. There are two battery packs for use: a cold-weather battery pack (4) 1.5-volt AA batteries and a low-profile battery pack (4) 3-volt lithium CR123 batteries. The batteries’ operating life is approximately 8 hours of continuous operation.

The magnification is 1x and the field of view is: I2 FoV = 38o/LWIR (long wavelength infrared) FoV= 21.5o H x 16.1oV. The thermal is selectable for “White Hot”, “Black Hot” and “Outline” modes, with user adjustable I2 Gain and Thermal Brightness.

COIL with the telescopic sight. (FLIR SYSTEMS, INC.)

Competitors

IEA MIL-Optics GmbH, the exclusive representative for L3 Warrior Systems in Germany, Belgium, Luxembourg and Austria, claims that L3 Warrior Systems has one of the best Special Operation Forces’ fusion goggles in the world. USSOCOM use the Ground Panoramic Night Vision Goggle (GPNVG) FGE and the ultra-lightweight Binocular Night Vision Device (BNVD) PVS-31 binocular goggle. But there are other manufacturers who have state-of-the-art night vision goggles such as Harris, Thales Group and Qioptiq.
Sniper Team Mission and Night Vision Equipment

A sniper team must perform its mission at difficult vision conditions and at darkness. Equipped with night vision devices like night vision goggles, the spotter’s thermal binocular and the sniper rifle’s “clip-on in-line” (COIL) thermal scope to the long range day scope, the team has the observation capability to locate and suppress hostile fire, deny enemy movement and demoralize the enemy with effective first-round kills at night.

Ultra-Lightweight Thermal Binocular Recon V

An example of a sniper team’s thermal binocular is FLIR’s Recon V. Recon V is a compact, rugged, lightweight, multisensor thermal binocular designed for 24/7 field operations that require enhanced imagery and long standoff range, night and day. The Recon V provides the sniper team the capability for long-range overwatch and assistance in making accurate and rapid decisions through the OODA process (Observe, Orient, Decide and Act). Its internal GPS, digital magnetic compass (DMC) and long-range laser rangefinder provide accurate range-to-target as well as precise target location. The 10x continuous zoom optic, MEMS-based electronic stabilization and high definition color video display combine to provide unmatched image quality and flexibility. The simplified user interface does away with multiple buttons and complicated multilayer menus and makes the Recon V easier to use than ever. The Recon V has detection ranges of up to 10km for vehicles and 5km for man-size targets. With ID ranges of up to 3km for vehicles and 1.3km for man-size targets, the Recon V can identify targets at the range of the sniper weapons.

L-3 Warrior Systems, Insight Operations’ Fusion Goggle—Enhanced. ( IEA MIL-OPTICS GmbH)

COIL Thermal Scopes

COIL Thermal Scopes were developed for the US military forces to answer the need for a single weapon that could be used day or night without the need to re-zero. The COIL scope in front of the daytime optic turns the standard optical scope into a thermal scope. The practical part is that there is no need to re-zero the weapon at any time. As long as the daytime scope starts off on-target then the clip-on will be on-target. This is the most used technology. Utilizing thermal night vision technology coupled with uncooled sight and scope technology, a thermal weapon sight is a completely passive infrared weapon sighting system which allows users to identify the heat signatures of individuals or objects day or night and in rain, fog and smoke. No external flash infrared (IR illuminator) light source is required, and the unit may be used in complete darkness or broad daylight. When viewed through the scopes, heat-emitting objects such as humans and recently operated vehicles stand out dramatically against their surroundings, defeating camouflage and other methods of visual concealment.

FLIR ThermoSight® HISS-XLR

FLIR’s rugged and field-tested thermal sights are engineered for battlefield use and designed in partnership with field operators. The ThermoSight HISS-XLR thermal weapon sight’s high-resolution sensors give the shooter image details and clarity needed to tell friend from foe and put the first round on the right target. HISS-XLR offers extended long-range capabilities and target acquisition for sniper and reconnaissance missions with targets out to 2000m. ThermoSight HISS-XLR has a large format mid-wave thermal imaging and a high definition display with high resolution, sharp symbology and imagery. It’s compatible with standard scopes up to 25x. The hot-swap standard CR123A batteries keep the imager active without downtime. It has image/video recording and video output. The shock mitigation system permits use of .50 caliber bolt-action anti-material rifles. Optional accessories include integrated digital magnetic compass and pedant controls.

The thermal is selectable: White Hot, Black Hot and Outline modes. Here is the Outline shown. (TOM WEBER, MIL PICTURES/IEA MIL-OPTICS GmbH)

FLIR MilSight® S140-D ADUNS

The MilSight S140-D ADUNS (advanced dual-band universal night sight) is compatible with standard day scopes with optimum magnification 4x to 12x. The S140-D ADUNS is applicable for reconnaissance, covert operations, surveillance and specialty law enforcement. It’s a multiuse design that offers mission flexibility as a thermal weapon sight for target acquisition, mounted on a spotting scope for long-range reconnaissance, handheld as an observation device or used in other nighttime operations requiring night vision capabilities. It’s designed to mount on any MIL-STD-1913 rail interface forward of an existing scope, adding blended thermal and night vision capabilities to daytime target acquisition platforms. The sight uses adjustable blending of thermal image and intensified night vision to produce a high-quality image through total darkness, fog, smoke, dust and many other obscurants. Its multiuse design, small and lightweight size and simple operation make the MilSight S140-D ADUNS an ideal vision enhancement system for nighttime close-combat missions. The focus range is from 15m to infinity. The I2 FoV is 8.8°, and the IR FoV is 7.1° H x 5.3° V. The Shock Mitigation System is a standard feature. It interfaces command and control on camera and remote pendant. Thermal video is external. Weight (w/o batteries) is 4.5lb (2.25kg). Power requirement is 4 each AA Li (L91).

Thermal brightness. (TOM WEBER, MIL PICTURES/IEA MIL-OPTICS GmbH)

Detection, Recognition and Identification

Detection means that the viewer can see something that is different from the spectral field around it. In order to detect if an object is present or not, its critical dimensions need to be covered by 1.5 or more pixels.

Recognition means that the viewer can see whether something is a person or any other object. In order to recognize an object it needs to be subtended by at least 6 pixels across its critical dimension.

Identification means that the viewer can see sufficiently well to be able to identify the object as “friend or foe.” In order to do this the critical dimension of the object in question needs to be subtended by at least 12 pixels (Source: some definitions from FLIR Systems, Inc.).

DRAGON-C.

Qioptiq’s DRAGON Family of Thermal Sights

The DRAGON family’s thermal weapon sights can be adapted for use on a variety of weapons mounting to a range of rails including a Picatinny/NATO rail. The DRAGON family’s thermal sights are designed specifically to meet target engagement and surveillance requirements for military customers and law enforcement agencies while providing high-performance capability within a lightweight, compact and rugged military-qualified design. The DRAGON family delivers a capability to detect man-size and vehicle targets 24 hours a day, even in poor visibility, in total darkness and through battlefield obscurants. According to Qioptiq, the DRAGON family utilizes the latest uncooled thermal cameras and optical technology to deliver world leading performance and reliability. They have exceptional boresight stability guaranteed through state-of-the-art optical design and lens mounting techniques. The thermal sights can be fitted with Qioptiq’s LO GLINT coating technology to reduce sunlight glint and reflection as an option.

DRAGON-C

DRAGON C (Compact) is an ultra-lightweight, multipurpose thermal weapon sight which is simple to use for the dismounted close-combat user. No focus control is required, and it can be integrated with a wide range of optical day sights in the range of x1—x 4 magnifications. DRAGON C is a compact sight with a multirole capability as a COIL thermal weapon sight or used handheld as a stand-alone thermal weapon sight for observation/surveillance. Its weight is only 375g (excluding bracket, batteries, eye guard).The FoV is 16o, and the magnification is x1, x2 (E-Zoom). The range performance detection of a man-size object is at 500m. The power source used is 2XAA Lithium batteries with a running time of ˜5 hours at 20oC continuously. The sight has also a Video Out, RS232 communications.

The FLIR ThermoSight HISS-XLR in line with the scope on a .338 cal. ACCURACY INTERNATIONAL AXMC rifle. A Wilcox RAPTAR-S Tactical Aiming Laser Sight/Laser Rangefinder/Ballistic Computer for Snipers and Military Special Operations Forces is mounted on the FLIR. (AUD HÅLAND)

DRAGON-SR Thermal

DRAGON-SR (Short Range) is a lightweight x3 magnification uncooled thermal weapon sight. The simple-to-use DRAGON-SR is a multipurpose thermal weapon/surveillance sight that provides all-round capability for dismounted and mounted close-combat users and law enforcement agencies. It can be adapted for use on a variety of short-range weapons mounting to Picatinny/NATO rail. It can also be used in a handheld role if required. DRAGON-SR’s weight is <730g (excluding accessories and batteries). The FoV is 8° HFOV, and the magnification is x3, x6 (electronic zoom). The range performance detection of a man-size object with x3 magnification is 2,300m, and with x6 magnification 2,390m. The power source used is 4 AA batteries with a running time of >8 hours at 23oC continuous operation (Lithium). DRAGON-SR is available with a choice of TI cameras including ITAR free. The sight has a Video Out, RS232 communications. Optional accessories include a Red Dot Close Quarter Battle sight (CQB sight), laser pointer, remote control and interface cables.

DRAGON-MR Thermal WEAPON Sight

DRAGON-MR thermal sight is a lightweight, compact and rugged military qualified weapon sight. It’s designed specifically to meet target engagement and surveillance requirements for military customers and law enforcement agencies. Controls have been designed for simplicity and positioned for ease of access. DRAGON-MR has a FoV of 5.9o HFOV and a magnification of x4, x8 (electronic zoom). The detection range of a man-size object with x4 magnification is 2,740m and with 8x magnification 3,120m. The weight (excluding batteries and weapon mount) is <810g. It’s powered with 4 x 1.5V AA batteries and has a battery life of >8 hours continuous operation at 23ºC—Lithium. DRAGON-MR has RS232 communications, Video out and can be used with external power source. Optional accessories are laser pointer and laser fire cable, CQB sight remote control and interface cable (external power, serial communications and video).

MilSight S140-D ADUNS shown with day scope. (AUD HÅLAND)

DRAGON-S

DRAGON-S (Sniper) COIL thermal sight is designed for use with a range of optical day scopes providing snipers and law enforcement agencies with high-performance systems in a lightweight, compact and rugged military qualified design. Detection range of a man-size object is 2,740m. DRAGON-S can be adapted for use on a variety of weapons mounting to a Picatinny/NATO rail. The controls have been designed for simplicity and are positioned for ease of access with Machine Man Interface (MMI) designed for ease of use across all roles. DRAGON-S’s magnification is x1 with a FoV of 5.9o HFOV. Its weight is <930g (excluding batteries and weapon mount). It’s powered with 4 x 1.5V AA batteries and has a battery life of >8 hours continuous operation at 23ºC—Lithium. The optional accessories are remote control, interface cable (external power, serial communications and video) and shrouds to interface with various day scopes. It is factory set to eliminate the need for zeroing when the COIL thermal sight is fitted and removed from in front of the day scope. A light-tight seal is provided between the clip-on thermal sight and the day scope.

Fusion Scopes

There are some fusion scopes available on the market. As mentioned earlier, this technology now represents the new “normal” for low-light conditions with the significant tactical advantages by combining the detection capabilities of thermal imaging with the superior identification capabilities of image intensification. That technology enables operators to better identify targets of interest through smoke, fog, cloud and other obscurants.

Identification with DRAGON-SR Thermal, one can see that the person is holding a pistol. (QIOPTIQ)

SAKER Fused Weapon Sight

The SAKER Fused Weapon Sight from Qioptiq was launched for the first time formally at Eurosatory 2012 at a press presentation. SAKER Fused Weapon Sight provides the dismounted warrior with an enhanced capability to detect, recognize and identify (DRI) an object. SAKER combines I2 and uncooled thermal imaging sensors into a single-sight unit. Designed with low-power architecture, it’s a high-performance, in-line fused weapon sight combining image-intensified thermal imaging technologies to deliver enhanced 24-hour capability. The sight provides the user with the ability to rapidly DRI targets in all weather and battlefield conditions. SAKER is a fully qualified military-fused weapon sight designed specifically for short- and medium-range surveillance and target engagement. SAKER is perfect for Special Forces and in urban environments being lightweight at <890g (including SAKER Fused Weapon Sight, Picatinny-style rail grabber, 3 x 1.5v AA Lithium cells, lens cap and light security shroud) and providing detection and recognition at ranges beyond the effective range of an assault rifle. The FoV is 8.1o Thermal/10o I2. Battery life is >6.5-hour continuous operation, Blend Mode, >40-hour continuous operation, I2 Mode. Optional accessories are 6-function remote control, blended video output and daylight training filter.

Identification with DRAGON-MR Thermal Weapon Sight, one can clearly see what the soldiers are doing. (QIOPTIQ)

Dedal

The brand name “Dedal” was established in 1991 by a small group of young Russian engineers. The first model had success in the Russian market. The model range was extended. Due to the increasing expansion of Russian high-tech, science-intensive technologies, Dedal-NV has become a leading manufacturer of precision optics (ISO 9001-2015). Dedal has been supplying night vision and optical products to the European and North American commercial and law enforcement markets.

Full-fused. (QIOPTIQ)

Conclusion

Deciding on the best and most suitable thermal scope of the above-described products depends on the customer’s specifications. However, FLIR’s MilSight S140-D ADUNS is not exportable due to ITAR regulation, and how it works is classified. It may be one of the best in its class.

Fielded thermal sights are using 1st and 2nd Gen IR-technologies as developed from the mid-70s. Meanwhile, a 3rd Gen of IR-detectors is getting fielded. The special feature of this 3rd Gen is to introduce color with fused I2 and thermal technology into IR-imaging similar to the color perception of the human eye in the visible range. The human has the ability to see in moonlight, but a colored object is easier to identify. Fused I2 and thermal technology are ideal for dusk to night, in heavy cloud coverage, in forest/jungle environments and inside buildings as well as well-lit nighttime urban settings. One can therefore conclude that Fused Weapon Sights offer the best reconnaissance and identification performance under all-weather conditions. Color-fused goggles and color-fused weapon sights coupled with “Future Soldier Systems,” are the future of night vision devices.

7.62x54R Russian sniper rifle SV-98 with Schmidt & Bender scope and clip-on Thermal Sight Dedal-TA2. (AUD HÅLAND)

Outline.