Bullseye Camera System Announce Remote Targeting Viewing
The Bullseye Camera System is a unique patent-pending system that allows a shooter to view his downrange target right from the shooting location on his smartphone, tablet of laptop. The system features a special camera that sets up, down by the target and wirelessly transmits video back to the shooters position, via a wireless device, from locations up to 1 mile away. The shooter can instantly see each shot flashing on the screen no matter how many times the target has been shot. The system is completely wireless and does not require internet service or a cellular signal. The system works with rifle, pistol, archery, small bore, large bore and even patterning shotguns. Another great feature is that no special targets are required. You can use paper, cardboard, 3-D foam and even steel. The system includes a special weather-proof camera with night vision, a tripod, router, antenna, signal booster, 5-hour rechargeable Lithium-ion battery with charger and all required connector wire complete in a fitted secure carrying case. The unit also comes with a thumbdrive with Bullseye Target Manager software. The software is available for Android, iOS and Windows operating systems. The user also gets free software updates so as new features are made available you can simply download them. The camera also features a Laser Target Identifier to align the camera on the target when setting up the unit. The camera system comes in two models; the Standard Edition, which is good up to 500 yards and the Long Range Edition which has a range of 1 mile. Each model can also be ordered in an Elite Edition that adds a laptop. The two base models retail for just $449 and $549 complete. The company also offers an optional antenna that couples with the Long Range Edition to extend its range to well over 1 mile. For more information or to see demonstration videos you can go to www.bullseyecamera.com.

FLIR ThermoSight R-Series
Infrared technology leader FLIR announces the release of the ThermoSight R-Series, the world’s first line of thermal night vision scopes for non-game hunting starting under $3,500. The R-Series is also the first recreational scope within FLIR’s popular ThermoSight line of weapon sights, which includes models for law enforcement & the military. Compact and easy-to-use, the R-Series displays the body heat of humans as well as varmints and predators, regardless of the amount of visible light present. The scope has automatic image optimization and an advanced shock reduction system that is qualified for an MSR semiautomatic platform, up to .30 caliber. The R-Series also provides three inches of eye relief and multiple reticle options, with a repeatable & dependable zero. The R-Series is available in six different models, with a range of wide and narrow field of view lenses, and up to a 16x magnification. Each model includes a variety of video palettes, including FLIR’s exclusive “InstAlert” setting, which uses red colorization to display the hottest areas on screen. The R-Series attaches to any Mil-Std 1913 Picatinny rail, and its durable protective casing provides water resistance in up to three feet of water. Because of ITAR controls, the ThermoSight R-Series is only available for sale in the United States. For more detailed information, including specs, visit www.flir.com.

Mission First Tactical Torch Line
Mission First Tactical, LLC (MFT) is proud to introduce Torch; the new MFT series of lights and IR for home defense, law enforcement, security and as a primary light source backup. The Torch line includes three models: all are USA made by Princeton Tec. The Torch Backup Light White (TBLW) is a low profile, Picatinny mounted light with dual white LEDs. It has a recessed pressure pad for easy activation and a power button for simple ON/OFF functions. The illumination is low output for signature reduction during patrol, stealth structure search and approach to the target and breaching operations. The Torch Backup Light White has a 10-year storage lifespan, a 12-hour burn time with a 20-lumen bright white output. It weighs just 22 grams and has an IPX7 water resistant rating. MSRP is $59.99. The Torch Backup Light White/Red (TBLWR) illumination tool has many of the same features of the TBLW, except the dual LEDs are white and red; it has a 24-hour burn time and a 10-lumen output. Also, the power button features a one-click for low, a second click for high & a hold for 2-seconds brings on the primary light functionality. MSRP is $59.99. The third light in the Torch series is the Backup Light with Red/IR LEDs (TBLIR). It features all the same specifications of the TBLWR and includes the IR LED. MSRP is $59.99. For more information on the new Mission First Tactical Torch series of illumination tools, visit Mission First Tactical online at www.missionfirsttactical.com.

Ohio Ordnance Works HCAR
Ohio Ordnance Works, Inc. is proud to introduce the H.C.A.R. (Heavy Counter Assault Rifle), a rifle built on a similar cast receiver to the original Ohio Ordnance semiautomatic BAR but with significant improvements. The H.C.A.R. is 7 pounds lighter for faster, easier handling and more comfortable carrying and shooting. It fires the original .30-06 round and uses the same patented action as the original OOW semi-auto BAR (the 1918A3) and fires from the closed bolt. It also features a Picatinny rail to facilitate both a mounted optic and a back-up sight. The barrel has been dimpled using a patented design to reduce weight while maintaining rigidity and strength and to speed barrel cooling. The barrel is also threaded with the industry standard 5/8-24 thread that allows users to choose the flash suppressor, muzzle brake or sound suppressor their choice.

The H.C.A.R. comes with a newly designed handguard with four integrated Picatinny rails. These rails allow another optic device set-up (thermal with the main optic, etc.), as well as the attachment of the shooter’s choice of bipods, sling swivels, lights, etc. The trigger housing has been redesigned with an easier-to-engage safety with a shorter throw (45 degrees). There are new, quick-release push-pull pins that allow for a much simpler disassembly. It also has a new 6-pound trigger that is short and crisp, so the pull feels like a match trigger and the reset is just as short. The shooter can squeeze off controlled, accurate shots one after another. The ergonomic pistol grip allows for a more natural wrist alignment for shooting comfort and the easy-to-reach, intuitive magazine release paddle is quickly engaged so the time between mag changes is fast.

The H.C.A.R. has a bolt hold-open mechanism that locks the bolt to the rear when the mag is empty or whenever the bolt is manually pulled back without a magazine in the rifle. This allows single feeding, simple “one look” check for clear chamber, and easy field cleaning. The buffer system has been upgraded to a hydraulic buffer from the original cone buffering system, which slices the felt recoil of the rifle by at least half. The result is that the sight picture is easily maintained during firing with little to no effort. The internal threads of the buffer housing allow attachment of either Mil-Spec or aftermarket AR-15/M4 buttstock/buffer tubes, letting the shooter easily choose his or her own AR-15/M4 buttstock. For more information visit www.ohioordnanceworks.com.

Laser Devices DBAL-PL
The DBAL-PL is Laser Devices’ newest civilian legal product – available for everyone to purchase. This rugged, compact device makes your pistol an equal to the carbine in aiming and lighting capabilities and allows the pistol to be a usable tool in conjunction with night vision devices. The DBAL-PL features two operational modes – Visible mode: 400 lumen white light and choice of 5mW red or green laser; IR mode: Class 1 IR Laser with 600mW Eye-Safe LED Illuminator. Additional features include co-aligned visible and IR aiming lasers with fully adjustable windage and elevation. The DBAL-PL mounts to standard pistol rails or M1913 rail systems using a fully adjustable mounting interface for zero retention on any rail and a quick release battery compartment allows for battery changes on the fly while mounted. The DBAL-PL is powered by two (2) CR123A lithium batteries, activated by discrete push button switches located on the rear of the housing and machined from anodized aircraft aluminum then Type III hardcoat anodized for durability. See more at www.laserdevices.com.

Glock introduces the Glock 42
Glock, Inc. has announced the launch of its newest pistol – the Glock 42. The G42 is the smallest Glock pistol ever introduced, making it ideal for pocket carry and other deep concealment carry methods. Years of requests across all market groups for a super-concealable .380 Glock pistol prompted extensive development to bring the Glock customer the G42. The slim design of the G42 fits the hands of any shooter; specifically it gives women or those with smaller hands a comfortable option like they’ve never seen before. Glock’s smallest pistol uses the same Safe Action System found in all Glock pistols, is backed by more than 25 years of engineering excellence and comes with the Glock Limited Lifetime Warranty. The new Glock 42 is chambered in .380 ACP and hold 6 plus 1 rounds. The tiny gun is just 5.75 inches long and is less than 1 inch thick. The gun’s 3.25 inch barrel produces a velocity of 886 fps depending on ammunition. The gun is lightweight at just under 14 ounces with an empty magazine. More information can be found at www.glock.com.

TAC Shield Heavy Duty Bipods
TAC Shield is introducing their new line of precision engineered heavy duty bipods for active shooters. Strong high grade aluminum components are matched with a tough and durable matte finish ensuring a lifetime of shooting performance and protection. TAC Shield bipods offer fully adjustable and extendable legs. The precision leg lock offers secure variable length adjustment for each leg, accommodating terrain or surface variations. Each leg offers an additional fast extension that locks solidly in place supported with ribbed grip caps providing a secure and steady rest for the largest calibers. Legs retract quickly and positively with their spring return release buttons. Standard and pivoting models in various adjustable leg lengths offer a great selection for shooters to choose the right match for their rifle and accurate shooting needs. All bipods quickly and securely attach to swivel studs or rail adapters. All offer a time-proven spring leg deployment system providing strong and steady shooting, while folding for secure and out of the way storage. All products are backed with a Lifetime Warranty by people you can trust. Military Products, Inc. is proud to offer the TAC Shield brand of precision and quality products. Many of their products and designs are battle proven by our warfighters around the world. Please visit www.tacshield.com for more information about this and their other combat proven gear.

SIG Sauer SIG556xi
SIG Sauer has just introduced their new SIG556xi, rewriting the standard for modularity, reliability, and performance for the modern rifle platform. Based on the legendary SG550, the SIG556xi will change the way military, law enforcement, and responsible citizens look at adaptable rifles. Utilizing the time-tested rotating bolt and adjustable gas piston operating system, the SIG556xi allows operators a choice of caliber, barrel length, handguard/stock configurations and lower receivers. A removable barrel allows the operator to select the necessary length for a given mission. Adding the appropriate bolt, the SIG556xi can be changed to any of three calibers, 5.56x45mm NATO, 300 Blackout, and 7.62x39mm NATO. Users can also quickly change out the non-serialized lower receiver, allowing the use of either AR-style STANAG magazines or rock-and-lock AK-style magazines. The SIG556xi upper receiver is the serialized part, making the lower an easy to purchase part. Polymer handguards accept all Magpul light and rail kits, while the aluminum and carbon fiber handguards accept 2-, 4-, and 6-inch M1913 rails. Barrels are available in 10-, 14.5-, and 16-inches. Truly ambidextrous, the SIG556xi features an ambidextrous safety selector, magazine release and user swappable charging handle (right- or left-handed). Optional receiver end plates allow for the use of either AR receiver extension tubes and buttstocks or M1913 compatible stocks. Thanks to a redesigned trigger package, the military and law enforcement versions of the SIG556xi are capable of full-auto fire in every caliber, including 7.62x39mm. The Russian lower has been thoroughly function tested with many available AK magazines, including US P.A.L.M. www.sigsauer.com.

Trijicon VCOG 1-6X24MM
The new Trijicon VCOG (Variable Combat Optical Gunsight) 1-6x24mm meets the rigorous demands of duty or competition while giving shooters the flexibility to engage CQB targets & out to the maximum effective range of most service rifles. Designed and built in the USA, the Trijicon VCOG is machined from a 7075-T6 aluminum forging and given a Mil Spec, hard-coat anodized finish. There is a full 90 MOA of windage and elevation adjustment available in 1/2-inch click increments at 100 m to get almost any weapon system on target. Lenses are all fully multicoated with a broadband anti-reflective coating that maximizes light transmission while meeting and beating the military’s requirements for abrasion resistance. The scope maintains a constant four inches of eye relief throughout its magnification range and an oversized and knurled adjustment knob makes finding the perfect power setting easy and fast, even with gloved hands. The VCOG is waterproof to 66 feet and its illumination electronics are Mil-Spec tough. Initially, the VCOG will be offered with seven different reticle choices, all of which are located in the first focal plane allowing the ballistic reticle to be used at any magnification. The segmented circle reticle with a centered crosshair can be matched with 175-grain 7.62, 55- and 77-grain 5.56, or 115-grain supersonic 300 BLK loads. The popular horseshoe/dot reticle is available in each of the 5.56 and 7.62 offerings. The red illuminated reticle is powered by a common AA battery, accessible underneath the objective or, with a lithium battery, it can deliver 700 continuous hours of run time at setting 4 of 6. A rheostat is located on the main tube, opposite the windage turret, and has an off position between each of its six brightness settings. An integral mount securely pairs the optic with any M1913 Picatinny rail and its height is perfect for flattop M16, M4, AR-15 and SR-25/AR-10-style rifles. At just 10”, the VCOG leaves plenty of rail space ahead of the objective for night vision or thermal intensifiers. www.trijicon.com.

TAR Ideal Concepts TL5PRO
The TL5PRO was developed by TAR Ideal Concepts in collaboration with the Special Forces and an array of military experts, designed to fulfil specific requirements and challenges met on the battlefield in the promise of enhancing combat effectiveness and reducing fratricide.

Due to increased IR signatures in combat, effective IFF is limited. I.e., Reflective tape, which lacks a distinct signal gets lost in the background and soldiers are susceptible to friendly fire. In addition, today’s enemy has access to night vision and uses it to identify IR signatures as a common tactic for attacking soldiers. Further challenges include the weight, cost and size of effective IFF technology.

The TL5PRO signals the soldier by Infra-Red or Visual Illumination for IFF. Unlike other markers, the TL5PRO does not require the use of night vision as a means to maintain invisibility from the enemy. The marker is equipped with two main modes; IR and Visible (the Visible mode includes 3 illuminating color options), both of which have adjustable intensity levels. The Low Intensity Level allows the operator to be completely undetectable from a distance of above 50 meters; it is also untraceable and may be used when communications are unavailable or when operating under radio silence, maximizing the covertness of soldiers on the ground.

The TL5PRO is lightweight (only 90 gr), rugged, flexible, splash resistant and durable. Charged by one AA or CR123 battery, the Marker can last up to 72 hours in various modes.

Designed to detect and identify friendly forces in enemy territory. The TL5PRO is combat proven and can be used for multiple applications to include Landing Strip; K9 Tracking; Ground Forces and Special Operations; Police and SAR. www.tarideal.com

Most firearm manufactures who employ sequential serial numbering systems would not guarantee the sequence of numbers exactly matches production order but on the longer time frame they generally follow that trend.  That is to say, a firearm bearing the serial number ABC001 may not have been completed prior to the same model numbered ABD001 but it’s a fair assumption that they were made around the same time and that EFG001 came later.  Notable exceptions to the standard serial number structure are firearms ordered with specified serial number ranges and formats for law enforcement agencies and commemorative models.

Magazine floor plates are of two distinct types: early versions for the Non-Fully Metal Lined (NFML) magazines and later ones for the Fully Metal Lined (FML) magazines also known as ‘drop-free’ because their greater rigidity causes them to be less likely to stick in the magazine well than their predecessors. The four distinct early versions were originally smooth and then sequentially incorporated a Glock logo, insert button hole, and finally a part number ‘455.’ Later FML floor plates began with a different number ‘3602’ that was eventually omitted.

Using this assumption as a framework, this article will seek to identify changes in individual Glock cosmetic and design features and identify their sequence in the model history.  While a strict serial number sequence is an inexact assumption, an accurate time line of importation for serialized firearms can be dated through records available from Glock.

Overview of Glock Generations, Terminology and Associated Models
Because of the nature of the firearms manufacturing industry, terminology can be inexact due to the influence of non-anticipated design changes, marketing language, and customer terminology not originating from the manufacturer.  In some cases, this post production vernacular sets the standard for terminology in use by most.  This stands to reason given that the number of people buying, using, and writing about the firearms far out numbers those within the company that might otherwise like to control the terminology.  This is how distinct Glock generations came to be understood.

Glock pistols are categorized into four distinct generations (with a 4th ultimately being officially acknowledged by the gun’s markings).  The first generation guns had a relatively uniform grip texture around the entire handle of the frame behind and below the trigger guard and consisted of the original Glock model 17 and a few scarce early model 19 pistols.  The second generation guns had rectangular checkering on the front and back grip surfaces and can safely be counted on to include the models 17 through at least 24.

The NFML (left) and FML (right) magazine floor plates are not interchangeable with each other due to a difference in width of their mounting points.

Third generation guns are described as those with finger grooves superimposed on the front strap checkering and an accessory rail forward of the trigger guard on models large enough to incorporate this feature.  The addition of a slight “thumb rest” at the upper edge of the grip is also among these third generation features and this particular feature relates to U.S. importation criteria.

Finally, 4th generation Glock models incorporated rectangular checkering throughout the grip surface, a smaller grip with back strap extensions, a reversible magazine release, and the slide/recoil spring assembly was updated to include a dual spring for all models.  The new slide and guide rod assemblies are not back-compatible with earlier models.

While these categories are useful, the details in some cases can muddy the waters.  Several models of Glock firearms were made bearing the 3rd generation finger grooves but no associated accessory rail.  Guns of this type are rare and typically described as transitional or “Generation 2.5.”  For the collector or firearm examiner wishing to evaluate this firearm, it’s safe to say that guns of this type were produced in relatively low numbers and for a short period of time.  The early versions of the subcompact Glock 26 and 27 pistols (9mm and .40 S&W) produced around the same time had finger grooves on the front strap of the pistol that were devoid of checkering that eventually appeared on later 3rd generation versions of those models.  The slightly larger subcompact models 29 and 30 (10mm and .45 ACP) were always made with the checkered finger grooves but eventually produced with the previously omitted accessory rail.  The earlier non-railed versions of the Glock 29 and 30 frames were made for a longer period of time than the early smooth finger grooved versions of the model 26 and 27 frames.

The brief advent of the Glock 21 SF with ambidextrous magazine release required a new magazine design incorporating a cutout on the front face of the magazine wall. All subsequent magazines have incorporated this feature even though the ambidextrous system was short lived.

All models produced during the various generations were made consistently with the features of that generation.  For that reason, early models like the Glock 17 will have versions from each of those generations.  The Glock model numbers appeared sequentially although some models like the select fire 18 and the .380 models (25 and 28) are less common due to NFA and import restrictions.

Generation 1 Glock Features
The Generation 1 guns are an exclusive club consisting of only the model Glock 17 and a very few of the earliest model Glock 19 pistols.  (The Glock 18 is the select fire version of the model 17 and while 1st generation versions exist, because of their rarity and distinct internal geometry they won’t be discussed in this article.)  A long-slide version of the 17 known as the 17L was also produced using 1st generation frames but the slides are interchangeable and the frames are indistinguishable with other model 17s.  These will be described hereafter as belonging to the standard frame size designed for pistols chambered in 9mm Luger, .357 Sig, .40 S&W, .380 ACP, and eventually the .45 GAP (wide frame guns came later).  The model 17 is categorized as a full sized pistol while the 19 is considered to be a compact in size.  Both models were almost exclusively chambered for 9mm Luger although a few special exceptions have been known to exist (e.g.-9x21mm in Europe).

The first Glock pistols imported into the U.S. came with serial numbers beginning with a two letters followed by the typical three numbers and a “US” suffix indicating they were for export to the United States.  The two characteristic proof mark logos appeared on the frames, slides, and barrels while additional markings, such as a three letter manufacturer’s code and a pentagon appeared on the barrel only.

The official serial number in the United States is the one appearing on the frame which includes the “US” suffix.  These numbers appear on a metal insert on the bottom of the frame just ahead of the trigger guard.  The early versions of these were black in color and the “US” appears to be in a different font than the alpha-numeric characters that make up the rest of the numbers.  These black serial number plates were used in the early Generation 2 Glock 19 pistols in the same serial number ranges as their Generation 1 Glock 17 siblings.

Glock pistols have always had two cartouches on the top and bottom of the right side of the grip.  The upper cartouche on the generation 1 pistols reads: “GLOCK, INC., SMYRNA, GA.” while the lower marking read “US. Pat. 4,539, 889”.  Each of these is a single line of text that appears with embossed characters over a smooth background surface in the polymer of the frame surrounded by the existing texture.

The model 19 had another feature change from the 17 to add points towards those required for importation into the U.S.  The otherwise smooth trigger of the model 17 was replaced with a serrated version.  All Glock pistols the size of the model 19 or smaller were fitted with serrated triggers for importation, although it’s not uncommon for their owners to prefer the smoother trigger and retrofit the parts since they are interchangeable.  Another key difference between the models 17 and 19 is the geometry of the barrel lug and matching locking piece inside the frame.  They are positioned differently which is why barrels are not interchangeable between the full sized and compact frames.  This distinction remains in subsequent generations and models/calibers.

Generation 2 Glock Features
Because the Glock 17 preceded the Glock 19, there was initially no need to distinguish the two frames by markings.  In fact, the very first Glock 19 pistols (1st generation) were actually made from Glock 17 frames that were trimmed to accommodate the smaller slide and magazine.  An apparent mold mark on the left front corner of the trigger guard was eventually used for a marking location indicating which frame was being produced.  This subsequent mold mark consists of a circular cartouche with the number 17 or 19 depending on the frame (earlier model 17’s had no such mark).

As has been described above, the main change that constitutes the generation 2 models is the retexturing of the grip surface.  This rectangular pattern grip checkering on the front and back of the grip is often referred to as “grenade” checkering.  Early generation 2 pistols were model 17’s and 19’s that retained the two single line grip cartouches on the right side, the 17/19 mold marks on the left, and Austrian proof marks of the generation 1 models, but not all had the silver colored serial number insert plate.

Around 1990 & about half-way through the two-letter serial number ranges, Glock started importing the models 20 (10mm), 21 (.45 ACP), 22, and 23 (both .40 S&W).  By this time, the Austrian proof marks and the 17/19 mold mark were no longer present.  The models 22 and 23 are essentially the .40 S&W versions of the 17 and 19 respectively; however, the more powerful cartridge forced a design change that added an additional pin to retain the locking piece in the frame.  Some rare & early versions of these pistols may not have had the additional (3rd) pin.  The models 20 and 21 were the first of the wide frame sizes made to accommodate the 10mm Auto and .45 ACP cartridges, respectively.  All of these models are 2nd generation or later with both locking block pins in their design.

Early generation 1 Glock 17 pistols were not marked with a circular cartouche on the left front corner of the trigger guard bearing the model number. Later first and second generation Glock 17 and 19 pistols were for a time and then later this feature was deleted. Note, the serrated trigger of the Glock 19 model was necessary to comply with U.S. import regulations due to its smaller size.

Prior to reaching the end of the two-letter serial number ranges, a second line was added to the upper cartouche on the grip of the pistol which now read: MADE IN AUSTRIA / GLOCK, INC., SMYRNA, GA.

Right around the time of the rollover from two-letter serial numbers to three-letter series, the internal parts of the pistol changed from being mostly black in color to silver.  This feature is not always a reliable one to consider because older guns receiving factory or armorer upgrades often have newer silver colored parts including some early upgrades to pre-EH### pistols that required an enhanced trigger bar that would increase the sear/striker engagement.  These improved early trigger bars had a “+” stamped on the top rear portion near the area of striker engagement.  While this upgraded trigger bar had a distinct shape, this author has seen at least one example of an earlier shaped part that has a bronze/gold color.

Shortly after the change from two-letter to three-letter serial numbers, a second line was added to the lower cartouche on the grip with two additional patent numbers.  The next internal upgrade in this approximate chronology was angled cuts made to the interior of the frame to relieve the back two corners where the locking piece sits.  Without this modification, those two corners were prone to the initiation of vertical cracks in the polymer due to the repeated impact of the corners of the metal locking piece to the frame.  The relief cuts seemed to prevent the occurrence and could also be added to older models after the cracks had begun (essentially removing the cracks in the process of making the cuts at their location).

Midway through the 2nd generation, relief cuts were added to the rear cutout area for the locking block. Earlier models tended to develop tiny cracks in the polymer of that area due to the impact of the locking block corners during recoil. For a time, Glock would retrofit earlier guns if requested, although, there’s little indication these small cracks were more than a cosmetic issue.

As with other internal upgrades, because these were often done by the factory after production, their presence tells less about the age of the pistol than their absence.  Hypothetically, were the people at Glock, Inc. to discover an old batch of early generation 2 serialized frames; they would surely complete these upgrades before assembling them into pistols to be sold as new.  Likewise, pistols returned to the factory as trade-in towards new models might also have similar upgrades.

The list of generation 2 changes above can be described sequentially based on the assumption of the serial numbers being sequential although this may not strictly be true.  A more accurate description would be to say the changes listed here occurred during a watershed period during the middle of the second generation.  The change from black internal parts to silver upgrade parts, the locking piece relief cuts, and the addition of a second line of text of the lower cartouche are all relatively contemporary changes roughly coinciding with the change from the two-letter to three-letter serial number range.  Also in this time frame, the spring and guide rod assembly was upgraded to a one piece unit.

From the first generation to the fourth, Glock models have undergone subtle changes to the markings and textures replicated in the molded polymer frames.

A few years later, in 1994, Glock began importing the model 24, which is essentially the 2nd generation equivalent of the 17L described earlier chambered in .40 S&W.  With the exception of custom marked guns, all model 24’s and all subsequent model numbers have at least three letters in the serial number range.  Some time later the angle of the right rear surface of the ejection port was changed from a 90 degree angle to something slightly larger.  This change occurred between the introduction of the model 24 and the subcompact models 26 and 27 in 9mm and .40 S&W respectively.  What this means is that one may encounter a model 24 with the earlier 90 degree ejection port angle but all models 26 and later had the newer geometry.

The early model 26 and 27 pistols were the first to incorporate finger grooves in the front strap of the grip; however, these were not checkered like those that came before and after.  It may be easiest to regard the models 26-28 with the smooth front strap as generation 2 because they are like the proto type for the generation 3 changes and appeared prior to the addition of the accessory rail that fully defines generation 3 guns.  These first subcompact pistols incorporated the “thumb rest” feature at the top of the grip so they could be legally imported into the U.S. market.  On the other hand, the large frame subcompact pistols, models 29 and 30 (chambered in 10mm Auto and .45 ACP respectively) were always produced with checkered finger grooves on the front strap and their ultimate upgrade to having an accessory rail occurred much later so it may be best to classify all of these in generation 3.

Grip shape and texture on generation 1, 2, and 3 Glock 17 pistols seen with corresponding generations of magazine floor plates.

Generation 3 Glock Features
Generation 3 Glocks incorporated all of the feature changes listed above and changed very little in the years to come.  A few early models of the .357 SIG pistols were made with finger grooves and no accessory rail (a.k.a. “generation 2.5”) but these can be considered rare.  Additional models added after the switch to generation 3 included the 29 (10mm), 30 (.45 ACP), 31-33 (.357 SIG), 34 (9mm), 35 (.40 S&W), and the slim frame model 36 which was unique in that it was a .45 ACP pistol with the slide dimensions of the 9mm and a single stack frame that was even thinner!  The models 37-39 were later introduced in the .45 GAP cartridge.  These guns used the standard 9mm sized frame with a wider slide similar to the 10mm/.45 ACP models.

Towards the later years of the 3rd generation, some special versions of existing models were introduced along side the standard models.  Versions of several models described as having a Rich Texture Finish (RTF) were made that incorporated a distinct texture on all surfaces of the grip and cosmetically unique slide serrations.  These were not commercially successful and subsequently produced in smaller numbers.

In 2013, Glock unveiled a new model at the SHOT Show; the 30S. This gun combines the traditional wide frame of the model 30 (.45 ACP) with a slim slide similar to the Glock 36.

Some of the larger 10mm/.45 ACP models were made with “Short Frames” (SF) that had a grip back strap/palm swell that was reduced in size.  These models arrived around the same time as the addition of the accessory rail on the subcompact versions (29/30) and were marked on the right side of the frame above the trigger guard with a short cartouche bearing an “SF” embossed on the smooth polymer.

One smaller subset of these models is the Glock 21 SF with the larger 1913 rail built into the frame instead of the usual single notch accessory rail.  These were made in anticipation of design features requested for a new U.S. Army service pistol competition.  This particular model was made with a new ambidextrous magazine release that was very different from the previous designs.  This system captured the magazine with a thin paddle on the forward interior of the magazine well and would not function with older magazine designs.  For this reason, all subsequent magazines were made with this additional forward cutout, although the military competition never happened and these design features have not been repeated on subsequent models.

Around the time of the SF models, the serial numbers on Glock frames dropped the “US” suffix and all slide, frame, and barrel numbers were identical.  This occurred before the arrival of the 4th generation designs or the U.S. made Glock pistols that appear to all use the longer four letter plus three number serial number structure.  At present, both 3rd and 4th generation pistols are being made in the U.S. and Austria.  The only technical difference between the two seems to be in the metal finish – the Tennifer process used in Austria has been replaced by a Melonite process for U.S. made handguns.  It remains to be seen if this difference will distinguish the two products in the open market.

Generation 1
The first generation Glock 17 pistols had a smooth polymer grip.  They had a 2-piece spring guide and recoil spring.  The magazine was designed so it would not drop free when the magazine release was pressed.  Although this proved to be problematic for American users, the Austrian Army required it.  Rumour had it that it was so the magazines could not be lost in the snow.  To be able to import the gun into the United States a few modifications had to be made.  In Europe the serial number had to be on the slide and barrel.  In the U.S. it is required on the frame, so Glock moulded a tab into the frame.  Also to meet the points for importation, Glock added an adjustable sight.  The first generation was in fact the Austrian Army model P-80 although it would be sold else where as the Glock 17 (Gaston Glock’s 17th patent).

The Glock 17 pistol is striker fired omitting any external hammer.  The striker has a partial load on it when the pistol is ready to fire.  Approximately 25% of the load is taken up.  When the trigger is pulled, the remaining 75% of the striker is taken up and released to fire the cartridge.  Mr. Glock called his pistol “Safe Action.”  No external safeties are used.  However, the pistol has 3 internal safeties.  To gain a realistic perspective, you must understand that military and law enforcement personnel carried revolvers with no manual safety for many years.  This was never deemed unsafe.  However, with double action semiautomatic pistols, it is common for firearms instructors to find it difficult to train inexperienced people.  Reason being the first heavy pull of the trigger is often a flyer due to the extreme amount of force required to depress the trigger.  The follow-up single action shot is often also a flyer due to anticipation of the heavier trigger pull, even though the pistol is now firing in the lighter single action mode.  The Glock pistols have one constant trigger pull from first to last shot. Removing the element of anticipation, the shooter has enhanced accuracy and more accurate first shot hits.

Gaston Glock’s first pistol and the one that started it all, the Glock 17 which became the Austrian Army’s P-80 pistol. This pistol would forever alter the materials military and police handguns would be made and take the entire market by storm.

The 3 safeties in the “Safe Action” Glock pistol are all passive and function in order.  The first safety is the trigger safety.  There is a lever in the center of the trigger that unless disengaged prevents any rearward movement of the trigger.  The trigger safety is disengaged only by the trigger finger.  The second safety is the firing pin safety.  The firing pin safety physically blocks the strikers’ movement until the trigger is pulled to the rear.  When the trigger is pulled rearward, the trigger bar pushes upward on the firing pin safety disengaging it.  The final safety is the drop safety.  This is a track which the trigger bar/cruciform moves.  When the trigger is pulled all the way to the rear the trigger bar is pushed down, releasing the striker to fire the cartridge.  When the trigger is released, all 3 safeties automatically engage.  The Glock pistol has been dropped 100 feet in the air from a helicopter with a primed cartridge in the chamber.  When examined, it did not fire.

The slide is manufactured from a bar of solid steel and is finished by a process called gas nitration.  This clear finish penetrates .05 inches into the metal.  The slide of a Glock pistol is so hard it is just under a diamond on the Rockwell scale (55 to 60).  This finish is so hard that Austrian soldiers sharpen their bayonets on the slide. This finish is corrosive resistant as well.

The barrel of the Glock 17 is cold hammer forged.  After a pilot hole is drilled through the center of the barrel a mandrel, which contains the rifling and chamber, is placed inside the barrel blank.  Multiple hammers exert tons of force on the outside of the barrel, forming the polygonal bore and chamber.  Unlike conventional barrels with cut rifling, there are no sharp lands and grooves.  The bore diameter is tighter than a conventional barrel as well.  This does two things.  First, due to no sharp lands and grooves the barrel does not wear much at all increasing long term accuracy/barrel life and making the barrel easy to clean.  Second is a tighter bullet to barrel seal increasing velocity.

The Generation 2 Glock 17 shows many changes to the frame of the pistol including the checkering on the front and backstrap of the pistol. Some changes would be made to the trigger group as well. This pistol would also be made available with the new drop free magazines.

Generation 2
The second generation Glock was made for the desires of the American consumer.  First, the grip was changed to add checkering to the front and back strap of the pistol.  Additionally slightly rougher sides were added as well.  Internally, the recoil spring and spring guide were changed to a captive assembly.  Later second generations received an upgrade on the trigger group and firing pin block for improved safety.  Glock provided this for free based on the serial number range of the pistol.  The pistol was offered with fixed sights, adjustable as well as tritium night sights.  Perhaps the most significant change was for the American consumer with the drop free magazine.  The internal metal body went around all sides of the magazine preventing the magazines from swelling whether empty or full.  With the introduction of other calibers, an additional pin was added to secure in the locking block on all non 9×19 caliber pistols.  During this generation calibres in .40, 10mm Auto, .45 Auto, .357 and .380 Auto were introduced.

“We are moving proactively and quickly to standardize this part of the pistol.  This is a voluntary exchange specifically for the new Gen4 models,” said Gary Fletcher, Vice President of Glock, Inc.  “We have developed a program for consumers to send in their existing recoil spring assemblies and receive new ones at no cost.”

The replacement of the Gen4 pistol RSA can be performed as part of the regular field-strip process; consumers do not need to take the Gen4 pistol to an armorer.  Consumers wishing to participate in the exchange program are urged to call (877) 745-8523 to order their new recoil spring.  For more information on the details and shipping requirements on the replacement program, visit www.teamglock.com.

Glock, Inc. Donates $75,000 at 2011 Modern Day Marine
Glock, Inc. donated a total of $75,000 to two separate organizations during the 2011 Modern Day Marine held in MCB, Quantico, VA September 27 – 29.  Glock Vice President Josh Dorsey presented $50,000 to the Young Marines and $25,000 to the Marine Corps League during a presentation held at the Iwo Jima Memorial, Quantico on Wednesday, September 28th.

“Glock is proud to contribute to organizations such as the Young Marines and the Marine Corps League, which play such a vital role in providing aid to the families of America’s fallen heroes as well as develop the characteristics of our nation’s future leaders,” said Glock Vice President, and former Marine, Josh Dorsey.  “Glock has a long-standing tradition of supporting those that put themselves in harm’s way to protect the freedoms we currently enjoy.”

U.S. Special operations command Contract Awarded to SureFire
SureFire, LLC, manufacturer of high-end illumination tools and tactical products, has been awarded its largest suppressor contract to date.  The $23.3 million contract, for an indefinite quantity of sound suppressors, suppressor adapters, blank firing adapters and training adapters, was awarded by officials of the Naval Surface Warfare Center, Crane Division – the primary solicitation center for U.S. Special Operations Command as part of the Family of Muzzle Brake Suppressors (FMBS) contract.

The FMBS solicitation was the most comprehensive modern suppressor evaluation conducted by the U.S. military to date.  It focused on criteria that subjected suppressor systems to prolonged testing on a variety of firearms platforms.  SureFire suppressors were chosen based on test criteria such as: Reliability, Sound Reduction, Accuracy, Point of Impact Shift, Endurance/Durability, and Operational Suitability.  While these requirements reflect the suppression needs for firearms including the MK13 sniper rifle, the United States Marine Corps is already employing SureFire’s FA762SS suppressor system on every M40A5 sniper rifle.

“From day one, SureFire’s commitment has been to increase the safety and success of the war fighter and peacekeeper by developing products that exceed the standards for performance and quality,” said Barry Dueck, Director of SureFire’s Suppressor Division.  “Our suppressors are no exception.  We build these to enhance the operational capabilities of our customers, knowing that their lives often depend on their equipment, and we’re very pleased that USSOCOM will now have multiple models available to improve their operational effectiveness.”

U.S. Supreme Court Refuses to Hear Roth Appeal
The U.S. Supreme Court opened its Fall 2011 term by denying the certiorari petition of Professor J. Reece Roth, a professor emeritus at the University of Tennessee who had been convicted of violating the Arms Export Control Act (AECA).  The conviction was based in part upon Professor Roth permitting a foreign graduate student access to technical data relating to an Air Force military drone project.  In January of this year, the Sixth Circuit dismissed Professor Roth’s appeal.  The denial of certiorari ends the legal appeals process for Professor Roth.

Los Angeles Police Department Chooses to Continue Using Remington Shotguns
Remington Arms Company, LLC is proud to announce that the Los Angeles Police Department again chose the Remington Model 870 Police Magnum and Model 870 Police Marine Magnums as their department issued shotguns.  “We are excited and proud to supply LAPD its shotguns as we have continued to produce our police weapons to the highest standards in our custom police build area to insure the quality of our weapons going out to police departments across this great nation.” said Rick Johnson, Director of Law enforcement sales.

ATK Awarded $37 Million Contract to Provide Lightweight 30mm Ammunition to the UK MOD
ATK has been awarded a $37 million contract to provide lightweight (LW) 30mm ammunition – including the M788 TP (target practice) training round and the M789 High Explosive Dual Purpose (HEDP) tactical round – to the United Kingdom’s (UK) Ministry of Defence (MoD).  The contract reinforces ATK’s position as a preferred provider of medium-caliber ammunition to allied forces worldwide.  Both rounds will support the United Kingdom’s fleet of AH-64 Apache Helicopters.

These two rounds make up ATK’s family of LW30mm ammunition and were originally developed and fielded for the M230 automatic cannon and the AH-64 Attack helicopter.  The M789 HEDP round provides the accuracy and armor penetration capabilities necessary to effectively defeat today’s threats, and the cost-effective, ballistically-matched M788 training rounds enable improved warfighter performance in active theaters around the globe.  ATK has produced more than 14 million LW30mm cartridges rounds since 1977.

“Lightweight 30mm ammunition provides superior multi-role, multi-target defeat capabilities,” said Dan Olson, Vice President and General Manager, ATK Integrated Weapons Systems.  “Our M789 rounds are currently in use supporting operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, and we are proud to provide U.S. and allied forces worldwide with the medium-caliber munitions necessary to prevail in mission-critical scenarios.”

LaserMax Resolves Patent Infringement Lawsuit with NcStar
LaserMax announced a favorable conclusion of the patent infringement litigation which it initiated in December of 2008 against New Century NcStar, Inc. (NcStar).  LaserMax and NcStar settled the lawsuit concerning NcStar’s alleged infringement of LaserMax’s U.S. Patent No. 7,421,818, through NcStar’s manufacture or sale of products including, but not limited to, its products identified in its literature as ATPRLS, ATPRLS-G, APUSP, APCUSP, and ATPFLS, which include accessory mounts with embedded laser sights.

In the parties’ settlement of this case, NcStar has expressly and irrevocably acknowledged the validity of the ‘818 patent and has agreed to cease manufacture and sale of the products listed above.  NcStar has also agreed to recall any remaining inventory of those products from resellers, including brick-and-mortar dealers, catalogs and websites, and wholesale distributors.  Finally, NcStar has agreed to pay LaserMax an undisclosed sum.  The remaining terms of the settlement are confidential.

LaserMax’s CEO Susan Houde-Walter commented, “Once again, this is good news for LaserMax and the firearms industry.  LaserMax makes quality lasers which should never be confused with imitation products.”

Smith and Wesson Reports Strong First Fiscal Quarter Results
Smith & Wesson Holding Corporation announced financial results for the first quarter of fiscal 2012.  Total company net revenue for the first quarter was $99.2 million, up 4.5% from the year ago quarter.  Firearm division revenue was $91.7 million, an 18.0% increase over the first quarter last year, and was strong across nearly all product lines, particularly in Smith & Wesson brand handguns, which recorded a 26.6% year-over-year revenue increase for the quarter.  Security solutions division revenue was $7.5 million for the first quarter, down 56.4% from the year-ago quarter.

At the end of the quarter, firearm backlog was $148.8 million and security solutions backlog was $19.9 million.  Backlog is cancellable until shipped or work has been performed.

Michael F. Golden, Smith & Wesson Holding Corporation President and Chief Executive Officer, said, “Orders for our firearms remained strong in the quarter, evidenced by increased sales of our Smith & Wesson brand pistols and modern sporting rifles.  In fact, firearm unit sales in our consumer channel were up 44.4% compared with the adjusted NICS* increase of 10.8% for the same three-month period ending July 31.  Professional orders for our M&P pistols increased, and handgun growth in general was supported by the continuing consumer trend toward smaller firearms designed for concealed carry and for personal protection. While the environment for our security solutions business remained challenging primarily related to constraints in government spending, we continued to focus on reshaping the business and expanding our portfolio with new products to better address the current market environment.”

ATK to Relocate Corporate Headquarters to Northern Virginia
ATK announced today that it will relocate its corporate headquarters as of October 1, 2011 to Arlington, Virginia, where the company will expand its existing office space.  The company will continue to maintain a strong presence in Minnesota, including approximately 210 Minnesota-based corporate employees.  In total, ATK employs approximately 2,700 people in Minnesota.  ATK currently employs approximately 3,500 people in the Mid-Atlantic region, where it operates facilities in Maryland, Virginia and West Virginia.

Virginia Governor Bob McDonnell welcomed ATK to northern Virginia, and said, “We are pleased that ATK is joining the vibrant aerospace and defense community that contributes so much to the commercial base of our state, and look forward to the company’s continued growth and progress here.”

“The relocation of ATK’s headquarters to the Washington D.C. area will provide our company with opportunities for increased engagement with our customers and Congress, as well as with our aerospace and defense industry peers that already are located in the region.  Expanding our presence and visibility in the Washington area will support our strategy of creating a more global, diversified company,” said Mark W. DeYoung, President and CEO.

Insight Technology HX Tactical Flashlight Rebate
Insight Technology recently announced that it is offering a fall rebate on the complete line of HX Tactical Hand-Held Flashlights.  The mail-in rebate is available to any consumer who purchases HX lights from now through December 31, 2011.  Rebates include $40 back on both the HX120 & HX150 and $50 back on the HX200.

Each light can be customized to start on any brightness level or function and offers programmable settings that include: auto off, constant on, momentary on, dimming, a blinding strobe and SOS beacon, making this series an incredibly versatile and possibly life saving tool.

Rebate coupons have been distributed to authorized dealers and distributors and can also be downloaded at www.insighttechgear.com and www.eotech-inc.com.  Customers will receive rebate checks within 8 weeks of receipt.

Dutch Ministry of Security and Justice Selects SIG Sauer Pistols
SIG Sauer GmbH., the leading manufacturer of commercial, law enforcement and military firearms, has been selected as the official duty pistol provider of the Dutch Ministry of Security and Justice.

The SIG Sauer Model P250 will replace the stock of Walther P5s and Glock 17s currently in use by the Netherland police.  Approximately 42,000 PPNL variants will be delivered between 2011 and 2013.

This contract marks the first time in 25 years that the Netherland police service has chosen a new sidearm.  The P250 was selected over offerings from Walther, Heckler & Koch, and Beretta.

“After two years of exhaustive testing, we are gratified to see the P250 selected as the weapon of choice,” said Managing Director, Dr. Andreas Wende, SIG Sauer GmbH.  “We appreciate the Ministry taking the time for a complete and intensive testing process in making this decision.  SIG Sauer is grateful to have been selected, and we look forward to proudly serving with the Netherland National Police.”

Silencerco Acquires SWR (Southeastern Weaponry Research) Manufacturing
Silencerco has acquired SWR manufacturing.  The acquisition, which was agreed to on August 9, 2011 will serve the industry and consumers by combining the forces of two companies that have a common history of innovative products and superb customer service.  This merger will result in streamlined manufacturing resulting in decreased delivery times and most importantly, more innovative product design and increased brand awareness.  This merger creates a new benchmark for customer service and product innovation.

The merger of Silencerco and SWR positions the new entity to be one of the top innovative manufacturers of sound suppression technology in the country.  Manufacturing of both company product lines will be performed in Utah at the Silencerco facility.  The addition of new equipment and resources will allow Silencerco and SWR to service the law enforcement, military and consumer industries with increased productivity, shorter wait times for delivery and will add to the unique and innovative product design that will further revolutionize the firearm suppression industry.

Henry Graham, the current President of SWR, will continue to be available to his existing networks as Director of SWR at Silencerco.  SWR products will continue to be manufactured and supported, and technical support for legacy SWR products will remain unchanged.  “I am excited about this acquisition, it provides SWR with the resources it needs to elevate production, innovation, and service to a level that was otherwise out of reach,” said Henry Graham, President of SWR.  The new relationship between Silencerco and SWR will enhance manufacturing, reposition branding and marketing efforts into a larger, more effective social network, and continue in offering preeminent individualized customer support.

Named Windham Weaponry, the company will make rifles and employ up to half of the 73 employees who worked at the Bushmaster plant, which closed earlier this year.  More employees may be added before the end of the year.  “A group of investors felt there was a great opportunity for a new company when Bushmaster Firearms International, LLC decided to relocate the company to another state and lay off all its employees.  These employees in many cases have 25 years of experience in making one of the finest rifles in the world,” said the release.  The investor group is led by Richard Dyke, who founded Bushmaster and sold the company to New York City-based private equity firm Cerberus Capital Management in April 2006 for an undisclosed sum.

ATK Receives $488M in Small-Caliber Ammunition Orders, Including the New M855A1 Enhanced Performance Round
ATK has received orders totaling more than $488 million for small caliber ammunition pursuant to an Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract with the U.S. Army Contracting Command, Rock Island (ACC-RI).  This order includes a mix of 5.56mm, 7.62mm and .50 caliber military ammunition to be produced at the Lake City Army Ammunition Plant in Independence, Missouri.

ATK is the world’s leading producer of small-caliber military and commercial ammunition.  The company successfully partnered with the Army to design and produce the new 5.56mm cartridge known to the U.S. warfighter as the Enhanced Performance Round (EPR).  “This latest set of orders includes an increase in the demand for the new M855A1 Enhanced Performance Round, which is getting very positive reviews by the warfighter,” explained ATK Small Caliber Systems Vice President and General Manager Mark Hissong.  “We’ve produced more than 100 million rounds of the M855A1 EPR since transitioning it into full-rate production last year.  We will increase EPR production rates this year as we complete the modernization of high-speed, high-volume 5.56mm production equipment used to manufacturer this new high performance round.”

Swiss Army Selects Glock as New Service Pistol
The Swiss Army has chosen Glock as the new service pistol for the Swiss Army Special Forces.  The Glock pistol models ultimately selected were the Glock 17 Gen4 and Glock 26 Gen4 9×19 semiautomatic pistols, as well as the Blue Glock training pistol, the Glock 17T Gen4 and Glock 26T Gen4, which will have the ability to fire both FX and ATK Force on Force marking ammunition.

The Swiss Army began their search for a new duty pistol in 2009 in hopes of finding a firearm that would provide greater soldier superiority and survivability in battle, lighter carry weight, simplicity of use under stress and uncomplicated maintenance.  Glock pistols excelled during field testing as the Army found them superior in ease of handling which provided evaluators superior capability to score hits during target acquisition drills.  “Glock is very proud to have been competitively chosen by the Swiss Army over all other competition,” said Glock Vice President Josh Dorsey.  “Glock was chosen for this project due to the reliability and durability that have made Glock pistols famous.  Glock’s focus remains on providing safe, simple and fast pistols to those that go in harm’s way.  Our firearms are designed for these individuals to succeed and survive in any situation.”

End of an Era for Marlin Firearms in Connecticut
Marlin Firearms’ history dates back to 1870 in New Haven, Conn.  In 1968, the manufacturer moved into its 226,000-square-foot plant in North Haven.  During the 1970s, more than 500 people worked at the facility.  Marlin was sold in 2007 to Remington Arms Co., part of the Freedom Group of companies.  Marlin operations have been transferred to three locations, including the Remington plant in Ilion, New York.

More than 500 people worked at Marlin in the mid-1970s.  When the closure was announced in March 2010, 265 people were working at the gun manufacturing plant.   Marlin was sold to Remington Arms Co. in 2007 for $41.7 million.  Marlin and Remington are part of the conglomerate now overseen by the Freedom Group Inc.

Peli Products Expanding its European Manufacturing Operations
Peli Products S.L. is expanding its European manufacturing operations in Germany.  Since October 2007, the company has been producing injection-molded Peli Protector Case models at the manufacturing site of its German partner in Germany.  The company recently announced that German production will be enlarged to include the roto-mould of Peli-Hardigg Cases, offering a variety of more than 100 models with a selection of 13 different colors.

“The roto-moulded case range is a very important part of our European business.  Considering the current injection moulding production in Germany plus this new range, we will have a substantial part of our EMEA Sales produced in Germany.  That will create a work force increase in Germany plus some substantial investments in machinery and equipment,” says Piero Marigo, Managing Director of Peli Products.  “By enlarging our European manufacturing, we are providing our customers with better service which will better facilitate cooperation with our Engineering and Production teams when developing special projects for them.”

Manroy USA Acquires Sabre Defense Industries
Manroy USA, headquartered in Scottsboro, Alabama, announced the completion of their acquisition of the assets of Nashville-based Sabre Defense Industries.  The assets were sold via bankruptcy auction in March 2011.  Manroy USA will operate and “do business as” two independent companies, each utilizing dedicated personnel and facilities.

Manroy Defense Systems (MDS) will manufacture and market its products and capabilities to the military markets of the USA as well as internationally.  MDS plans to fulfill the contracts with the United States Department of Defense (DoD) once the contract novation process is complete and approved.  Product lines will include the M2 .50 cal. HBMG, 7.62mm GPMG, M2 Quick Change Barrel (QCB), and the M16 family of weapons.  Additionally, MDS will continue supporting with weapons spares, mounts and weapon accessories for Department of Defense and Vehicle OEMs.

Sabre Firearms will manufacture and market commercial and law enforcement product lines that includes the AR-15 family of weapons, spares and accessories.  This commercial business will operate out of Scottsboro, Alabama with the intention of servicing the former Sabre markets and customers as soon as summer 2011.  This strategic move provides each of these companies the production and service capabilities to support the entire range of U.S. military, commercial, law enforcement and foreign markets.

Otis Technology Receives Progressive Manufacturing 100 Award
Otis Technology is a recipient of the seventh annual Progressive Manufacturing 100 Award.  The Progressive Manufacturing 100 is an awards program honoring manufacturing companies that have transformed themselves through the use of information technology.  Every year, Managing Automation recognizes 100 groundbreaking manufacturing companies from around the world.

“Receiving this award for the second straight year is a tremendous honor for Otis.  Implementing so many new technologies along with lean strategies has ultimately allowed us to improve our ability to respond to our customers’ needs.  Being recognized with the PM100 award in operational excellence is another positive effect of the changes we have implemented,” says Director of Operations at Otis Technology, Harold Philbrick.  In 2010, Otis was honored in the managing automation category.

Otis’ goal of implementing such large scale initiatives is to ultimately achieve operational excellence.  Aside from the introduction of an automated storage and retrieval system and ADAM automated vehicles, Otis has immersed itself in companywide lean philosophies and procedures.  With the combination of automation and lean practices, Otis has been able to make manufacturing and warehousing operations more efficient, decrease inventory levels, shrink lead times, and create optimal flow in the warehouse.

Since 2006 there has been a small but efficacious little defense show held in Fayetteville, NC, home of Fort Bragg and the U.S. Army Special Operations Command (USASOC).  The SpecOps East Warfighter Expo, held congruently this year with the Special Operations Symposium at Fayetteville’s Crown Convention Center, brought fifty-five defense industry exhibitors under the same roof as troops, representing the “tip of the spear” in the current global struggle against terrorism providing for an ideal environment of casual networking without the chaos or crowds of a larger venue like the SHOT Show.

Present and Accounted For
With fifty-five vendors in a show designed to cover the entire array of Special Operations mission sets, it was pleasing to find that the small arms industry had some visibility.  Some of the big players like Colt and FNH were no shows, but the time was redeemed well with industry regulars like Sabre Defence, Rock River Arms, and Glock as well as some less familiar faces who were showing some impressive products.

~~~Eye-Catching ARs in the Hall~~~

Sabre Defence
Sabre’s exhibit was eye catching this year with guns on the table that just weren’t quite the same as the ones I had seen in the past.  Those who are familiar with Sabre Defence will recall that not only are they one of the number of manufacturers of AR-15 type platforms, but they are the only “small” privately held company to hold DoD contracts for M16 rifles and they even produce barrels for the M2 .50 cal. “Ma Deuce” on government contract.  They produce quality products.

Sabre Defence showcased some impressive systems at SpecOps East to include the Sabre Gas Piston Rifle (top) and the company’s 6.5mm Grendel Squad Designated Marksman Rifle (center).

So what was on the table out of the AR norm? First, the Sabre Defence Designated Marksman Rifle (DMR) chambered for the 6.5 Grendel cartridge.  It’s no surprise to see such a configuration, as Sabre’s Dave Power explained to me, since Sabre is a barrel supplier to Alexander Arms, the flagship company of Bill Alexander, the father of the 6.5 Grendel round.  The rifle itself is in its first year and is available in barrel lengths of 14.5, 18, and 24 inches.  The twist rate is 1 in 7.5 inches and the barrel itself is chrome lined in typical Sabre fashion.  The system has some undeniable potential.  6.5 Grendel itself is supersonic out to 1,000 yards in some loads and platform configurations, and is a notoriously flat shooter.  Only time will tell just how this system is received.  Rumor has it that it saw some use in the USASOC/JSSOC sponsored shooting match held recently but details are not forthcoming.

As Dave Power discussed the DMR, two business partners from Adams Arms, James Granger and Aloysius Donovan approached eager to show the Adams Arms joint venture with Sabre Defence: the Sabre Gas Piston Rifle.  The platform is much like what any industry regular would expect, a gas piston solution to the problems encountered in a standard AR type direct impingement (DI) operating system (an alternative M4 type operating system).  Having been exposed to quite a few piston operated AR based platforms in recent years it’s quite easy to follow the evolution taking place in the designs and separate the well thought out products from those that are immature, or problems waiting to happen.  As explained to me by James Granger, the Sabre/Adams system bears the trademarks of engineering, testing, and design work that one would expect to see in a half decade after the type appeared on the scene, taking into account the different obstacles and problems known to be common in piston designs and incorporating material solutions to counteract them.  Some notable operating features include:

1. A one piece bolt carrier that contains relief cuts for stress reduction and specially designed rear carrier to combat the vaunted bolt cant/tilt issue.
2. Ion bonded and blown finish on the operating rod, bolt group, and upper receiver for sustainable durability and operability.
3. Mechanical actuation feature (gas cut off) for single shot operation.
4. Gas escape between the plug and sleeve that pushes gas away from the operator and gas flow cycle that reduces thermal wash out under NVGs and low light conditions.
5. Precise engineering of moving parts based on the range of motion of the piston meant to alleviate unnecessary stresses from competing physical motions inside the weapon.
6. Free floating gas piston negating the harmonic effects on the barrel caused by the function of the operating system.

The Sabre Gas Piston Rifle is currently intended for more than commercial success; Dave Power acknowledged the system is in fact the current Sabre/Adams vision for the Army’s M4 Improvement Program and the up and coming Carbine solicitation.  It is wise to keep a close eye on this system and product.  The Sabre Gas Piston Rifle is a unique “from scratch” design and a joint venture between Sabre Defence and Adams Arms.  It should not be confused with other piston upgrades available from Adams Arms.

James Granger of Adams Arms explains the operating mechanism on the Sabre Gas Piston Rifle. The Adams Arms’ free floating piston is designed to negate effects of piston movement on barrel harmonics while providing reliable operation and simplistic take-down.

Rock River Arms
Mark Hanssen at the Rock River Arms (RRA) table bore an air of enthusiasm that was quite uplifting; he was speaking while holding RRA’s new rifle before a crowd of interested Special Forces attendees.  What is it called?  For now it seems to simply be “Prototype Rifle #01”.  This gun is a serious departure from the conventional AR.  It is small, compact, and has a side folding stock.  The charging handle is ambidextrous and moved to the forward part of the weapon over the barrel.  As for the buffer tube, well, there isn’t one.  This gun would make a great PDW or compact carbine once proven – the size-to-performance ratio being achieved through several departures from conventional AR designs as follows:

An easy access piston operating system; the operating rod being integral to the bolt carrier.  Another appropriate name for the operating rod would be “operating chunk of thick sturdy metal.”

A redesigned recoil spring.  The new spring looks familiar in concept to other firearms, but is radically different than the typical AR buffer spring.  It is fully contained in the upper receiver and allows for elimination of the buffer tube all together allowing the use of a side folding stocks: a handy thing to have where a compact individual weapon provides a useful platform in vehicle and Airborne operations, MOUT/FIBUA, cave/tunnel clearing, along with a myriad of other uses that require the improved ergonomics that come with a small package.

Rock River’s prototype features a forward ambidextrous charging handle located over the barrel of the weapon system which operates independently from the standard rear AR-15 type charging handle (which has been retained in the design). The dual charging handle design will help prevent muscle memory mishaps from veterans institutionalized on the standard AR platform.

A shortened bolt carrier.  This is a reminder of the old ZM design and is necessary to achieve buffer tube elimination.  This comes with a classic problem however; how do you trip the auto sear with a bolt group that is half the length?  Currently you don’t, but that doesn’t mean this nut won’t be cracked.

There is no real performance data on RRA’s new gun as of yet and I speculate the verdict will not be out for some time.  One thing is certain, it is refreshing to walk even the smaller shows and see the flurry of innovation that is occurring in the area of individual weapons.  It’s not just the big kids of the small arms industrial base that are bringing new concepts and designs to fruition.  Prototypes are appearing here and abroad in what seems to be record numbers; a sign of a healthy industry and of governments that are recognizing it is time to turn a page and bring new hardware into service.  As for the American market, the U.S. Army Carbine solicitation we’re all waiting for should make for some tough competition.

~~~~~~~Other than ARs~~~~~~~ 

Glock, Inc.
Glock was in attendance with the highly publicized “Gen4” model.  Touted in a number of publications quite a bit lately, but as Glock’s Tony Musa put it, “these are the most changes to a Glock in a really long time,” which in itself merits that it be readdressed.  Gen4 is nice; fired earlier this year at SHOT Show, it handled well and the claimed improvements in my opinion are realized.  There is no secret to the reengineering to the platform, the most radical of which is the redesigned dual recoil spring which produces a 10% reduction in felt recoil, but also your industry standard features such as interchangeable back straps and a true fully reversible/ambidextrous magazine release lever.  There are a couple of things that should be noted: the Gen4’s dual recoil assembly is not interchangeable with any other pre-Gen4 Glocks.  Furthermore, the laws of physics just won’t allow the previous generation Glock magazine to interchange in the Gen4 frame when configured for a left side magazine release as the mag body does not possess the magazine catch on the left side like the Gen4 upgrade (righties are in the clear).  This all said, most interesting is the Gen4’s extended life cycle claims as they do not stem solely from the dual recoil spring assembly as Musa explained; the small springs in the gun have also been “revamped” for improved life expectancy and durability.  This is all pretty impressive for a legacy firearm that possesses such a record for longevity and by this time next year I expect some end-users will have put the Gen4 to the test and there will be plenty of data to sift.

Peak Beam
Whenever one thinks of weapon lights, names like Surefire, First Light, and Stream Light come to mind, but Peak Beam was a new one and needed investigation.  Peak Beam’s Maxa Beam MBPKG-WM-AX3S CSWL is their flagship product and is designed to answer the need in the critical area of crew served weapon lights, particularly for the M2 .50 cal. machine gun.  Weighing in at 4.5 pounds and requiring a power supply with a NATO slave receptacle or two BA5590 lithium rechargeable batteries (as used in the ASIP radio) this ruggedized system may not be the right choice for the M4 MWS, but has all the features needed for a weapon light small enough yet powerful enough to exploit the potency of a crew served weapon like the M2 BMG.

The current CSWL is a Gen II development of the original Maxa Beam CSWL and has been enhanced to meet certain requirements established by the U.S. Army.  The system utilizes the standard M1913 Picatinny type rail mount adapter and must be coupled with the MBA-ATSSMKVIII rail adapter for the M2 machine gun.  Other standard features include a lockable IR Filter, shock-resistant lens and lamp (1,500 hours service life), and a control toggle that allows for full off/on mode operator control.  The lamp itself is powerful and you would certainly not want to look straight at the beam as the system is capable of generating 12,000,000 candle power with a white light visibility out to 3,500 meters (1,400 IR).  Furthermore, this light will grab the attention of just about anyone with its strobing feature, which gives the operator the ability to use the CSWL as a non-lethal visual device and hopefully dissuade the complacent war zone civilian from inadvertently driving up too close to the business end of a light bearing M2.

The End State
Lodestar’s SPECOPS East show may not be very large as shows go, and certainly not an all out small arms expo, but it has merits as a tiny venue that serves the warfighter first and foremost.  Any military or industry personnel that can make it down to Fort Bragg for the event might well consider it as a premier venue that hosts the very best audience our country can furnish in an atmosphere that is conducive to one-on-one relationship building.