ARSENAL® JSCO, BULGARIA

MG-1M

The 7.62x54mm ARSENAL MG-1M machine guns are powerful automatic weapons, used as armament against enemy troops and firing points. The MG-1M design is specially intended and allows operation of the weapon in heavy climatic conditions, which are typical for the regions of the Middle East, Southeast Asia and Africa.

arsenal-bg.com

Caliber/Bore: 7.62x54mm
Barrel Length: 605mm
FFL Status: For American manufacturer
Type of Links: Integrated via joint springs
Rate of Fire: 650 RPM

ARSENAL® JSCO, BULGARIA

MG-M2

The 7.62x51mm ARSENAL MG-M2 machine gun is a powerful individual automatic weapon designed to be used against enemy troops, light armoured targets and aerial targets by firing in single and automatic fire mode.

arsenal-bg.com

Caliber/Bore: 7.62x51mm
Barrel Length: 545mm
FFL Status: For American manufacturer
Type of Links: Disintegrating metal belt, M13 type
Rate of Fire: 650 RPM

DILLON AERO

M134D 7.62×51 Minigun

The Dillon Aero M134D 7.62×51 Minigun is renowned worldwide for its reliability, speed and accuracy. With low recoil forces, a firing rate of 3,000 rounds per minute (RPM) and an effective range of 1,200m, the M134D’s offensive and defensive capabilities are unmatched in air, land and sea applications.

dillonaero.com

Caliber/Bore: 7.62x51mm
Barrel Length: 18in to 22in
FFL Status: Importer/Exporter
Type of Links: M13
Rate of Fire: Up to 4,000 RPM

DILLON AERO

503D

Dillon Aero introduced the 503D, our new .50-caliber Gatling gun. Weighing 84 pounds, firing 1,500 rounds per minute (RPM) with increased resistance to internal component damage, the 503D has applications on air, sea and land platforms. The 503D is lighter, faster and smarter than other .50-caliber Gatling guns.

dillonaero.com

Caliber/Bore: .50 BMG
Barrel Length:
FFL Status: Importer/Exporter
Type of Links: M9
Rate of Fire: Up to 1,500 RPM

FIGHTLITE INDUSTRIES

MCR® Dual Feed Upper M-LOK® (MCR-060)

The MCR® (Mission Configurable Rifle) belt-fed, upper receiver assembly is designed to interchange with standard AR/M4-type uppers and readily fits any MIL-SPEC lower receiver without permanent modification to the host lower and is rearward-compatible to AR-15/M16 models produced as early as 1963. Once installed, the patented MCR® upper receiver system can be user-configured in seconds without tools to adapt to virtually any mission profile. Standard features include: gas-piston operation for extreme reliability in adverse conditions; a 16.25-inch quick-change (3 seconds) barrel system; and a MIL-STD-1913 co-planar handguard with a rail-interface system for the mounting of optics and modern accessories. Spanning the capability range from the optic-ready carbine to a lightweight support rifle, the MCR® accepts standard box-type AR-15/M16 magazines or M27 linked ammunition.

fightlite.com

Caliber/Bore: 5.56x45mm NATO
Barrel Length: 16.25in quick-change barrel
FFL Status: N/A
Type of Links: M27 linked ammunition
Rate of Fire: N/A

FN AMERICA

FN® MK 48 MOD 1

The FN® MK 48 MOD 1 brings the extended range and greater penetration of the hard-hitting 7.62x51mm round in a lighter, more compact platform. The light and compact MK 48 MOD 1 incorporates improved receiver pins, a new gas block and a vented handguard with improved heat shield and three MIL-STD-1913 rails. The MK 48 MOD 1’s cold hammer-forged MIL-SPEC barrel has a hard-chromed bore for longer life and improved accuracy and serves as the mounting point for the carry handle. The receiver is formed steel and is equipped with a top-mounted MIL-STD-1913 optical rail. A hydraulic buffer greatly reduces recoil, helping the operator keep more rounds on target. The crossbolt safety and curved trigger help enhance operator control. Includes one spare barrel.

fnamerica.com

Caliber/Bore: 7.62×51 NATO
Barrel Length: 19.75in
FFL Status: N/A
Type of Links: NATO standard disintegrating link belt-fed
Rate of Fire: 730 RPM

FN HERSTAL

FN MINIMI® 7.62 MK3

The FN MINIMI® 7.62 Light Machine Gun is now of 3rd generation and ensures improved ergonomics and improved mobility.

fnherstal.com

Caliber/Bore: 7.62
Barrel Length: 16.61in
FFL Status: N/A
Type of Links: N/A
Rate of Fire: 800 RPM

GENERAL DYNAMICS

Lightweight Medium Machine Gun (LWMMG)

The next generation Lightweight Medium Machine Gun (LWMMG) gives warfighters a distinct advantage in both extended and close-in fighting. Eliminating the gap between 7.62mm and .50 caliber weapons, the LWMMG utilizes the highly efficient .338 Norma Magnum cartridge to offer increased accuracy and lethality while extending the battlespace out to an impressive 1,700m. At 1,000m, the LWMMG is capable of defeating Level III body armor and incapacitating soft-skinned vehicles by delivering over 1,900 foot pounds of energy to the target—more than four times the terminal effect of the 7.62mm NATO cartridge.

gd-ots.com

Caliber/Bore: .338
Barrel Length: 24in
FFL Status: N/A
Type of Links: N/A
Rate of Fire: 500 RPM

HECKLER & KOCH

MG4

The MG4 is a lightweight, compact machine gun of high firepower, with a goal of being carried by one soldier and guarantee full mobility in difficult terrain and also in the urban environment. The MG4 offers the latest technological advances and provides unmatched performance characteristics: Due to its low recoil, the shot is readily controllable, giving high-target precision. Its great combat effectiveness and range, optimal rate of fire and simple handling makes it a weapon unlike any other.

heckler-koch.com

Caliber/Bore: 5.56mmx45
Barrel Length: 450mm
FFL Status: N/A
Type of Links: N/A
Rate of Fire: 830+120 RPM

HECKLER & KOCH

MG5

As the successor of the MG3, the MG5 opens a new era of universal belt-fed 7.62mmx51 machine guns. The gas-operated MG5 offers an intelligent and contemporary build standard, with numerous technical and ergonomic innovations. The mounting interface of the MG5 is compatible with MG3 mounts and tripods already in service. The universal MG5 can be used by dismounted infantry in the ground role, as well as for air defence or as a vehicle mounted/co axial machine gun.

heckler-koch.com

Caliber/Bore: 7.62mmx51 NATO
Barrel Length: 550mm
FFL Status: N/A
Type of Links: N/A
Rate of Fire: 680 / 740 / 800 RPM

IWI–ISRAEL WEAPON INDUSTRIES

NEGEV 5.56 LMG

The 5.56x45mm NEGEV is a robust and reliable Light Machine Gun (LMG), deployed by the IDF in Israel and by military entities worldwide. The NEGEV has a powerful target acquisition and accurate performance for the modern battlefield. It is exceptionally lightweight (less than 8kg) and can be operated safely under adverse and extreme environmental conditions.

iwi.net

Caliber/Bore: 5.56x45mm
Barrel Length: 460mm (18in) or 330mm (13in)
FFL Status: N/A
Type of Links: Fed by belt, assault drum or by NATO magazine
Rate of Fire: 850–1,050 RPM (magazine/belt) / 950–1,050 RPM (belt)–extreme conditions

IWI–ISRAEL WEAPON INDUSTRIES

NEGEV NG-7 LMG

The NEGEV NG-7 is the only 7.62x51mm LMG weighing less than 8kg with a semiautomatic mode enabling its safe use in Close Quarter Battle (CQB). The NG-7 is a powerful LMG with superior features such as precision, accuracy, reliability and enhanced human ergonomics and is battle-proven under adverse and extreme environmental conditions.

iwi.net

Caliber/Bore: 7.62x51mm
Barrel Length: 508mm (20in) or 420mm (16.5in)
FFL Status: N/A
Type of Links: Fed by belt, assault drum or by NATO magazine
Rate of Fire: 600–750 RPM (position 1 & 2)

OHIO ORDNANCE WORKS, INC. (OOW)

OOW240P (Patrol)

OOW manufactures light (249), medium (240) and heavy (M2) machine guns for customers in 43 countries worldwide. Our newest “Patrol” models of our “240” product line feature reduced weight while allowing more operator customization and greatly increasing the ability to accurately fire these weapons from the shoulder.

oowinc.com

Caliber/Bore: 7.62mm
Barrel Length: 19.5in
FFL Status: Type 10/11 Manufacturer/Importer/Exporter
Type of Links: M13
Rate of Fire: 650–750 RPM

OHIO ORDNANCE WORKS, INC. (OOW)

OOW249P (Patrol)

OOW manufactures light (249), medium (240) and heavy (M2) machine guns and has customers in 43 countries worldwide. Our newest “Patrol” models of our “249” product line feature reduced weight while allowing more operator customization and greatly increasing the ability to accurately fire these weapons from the shoulder.

oowinc.com

Caliber/Bore: 5.56mm
Barrel Length: 13in
FFL Status: Type 10/11 Manufacturer/Importer/Exporter
Type of Links: M27
Rate of Fire: 750–1,000 RPM

SIG SAUER, INC.

MG 338

The SIG SAUER MG 338 machine gun is a belt-fed, lightweight medium machine gun weighing under 20 pounds, chambered in .338 Norma Mag. The MG 338 features a short-stroke, gas-piston system and a proprietary recoil mitigation system, with a free-floating, quick-change barrel; ambidextrous controls; switchable feed tray; charging handle that can be alternated to either side depending on operator preference; and as a modern, multi-caliber, modular system, the new SIG MG 338 is easily convertible to 7.62×51 caliber.

sigsauer.com

Caliber/Bore: .338 Norma Magnum
Barrel Length: 20in
FFL Status: N/A
Type of Links: Disintegrating metal links
Rate of Fire: N/A

SIG SAUER, INC.

NGSW-AR MG 6.8

The primary objectives set forth by the U.S. Army for the NGSW-AR was a weapon with the firepower and range of a machine gun, coupled with the precision and ergonomics of a rifle. The SIG SAUER NGSW-AR 6.8mm submission is an ultra-light, medium-caliber machine gun with AR ergonomics and is chambered in 6.8mm hybrid ammunition. Features include quick-detach magazines, side opening feed tray, increased available 1913 rail space for night vision and enablers, folding buttstock and a suppressor.

sigsauer.com

Caliber/Bore: 6.8x51mm Hybrid, 7.62×51 NATO
Barrel Length: 16in
FFL Status: N/A
Type of Links: M13 disintegrating link
Rate of Fire: N/A

ST KINETICS

STK 50

The STK 50 machine gun fires from an open bolt, eliminating “cook-off” of ammunition. It has semi- and fully automatic firing modes, selectable from a push-type selector at the trigger module. Left or right feeding allows quick change-over of ammunition type, and the quick-change barrel with fixed headspace allows the barrel to be changed within seconds without adjustment of headspace. The STK 50 is designed for easy maintenance without the need for special tools.

stengg.com

Caliber/Bore: 12.7mm
Barrel Length: 1,141mm
FFL Status: N/A
Type of Links: Disintegrating M15A2 link belt
Rate of Fire: 400–600 RPM

S&T MOTIV

K12

S&T Motiv’s K12 7.62mm machine gun is easily converted from aircraft mode to infantry mode. It uses an open-bolt operation, is belt-fed with a quick change barrel and has a gas-operated and rotating bolt locking system for greater reliability. The K12 can be mounted to a bipod, tripod or aircraft. The machine gun has multiple integrated MIL-STD-1913 mounting rails for optics, lights and laser devices and is fully automatic only.

sntmotiv.com/eng

Caliber/Bore: 7.62mmx51 NATO
Barrel Length: 22in
FFL Status: N/A
Type of Links: N/A
Rate of Fire: 650–950 RPM

U.S. ORDNANCE 

M2A2

The U.S. Ordnance M2A2 machine gun is an air-cooled, belt-fed machine gun that fires from a closed bolt and operates on the short recoil principle with fixed headspace and timing. It is capable of both sustained automatic and accurate single-shot fire. It can be mounted on a vehicle, boat, helicopter or other aircraft. Ammunition may be fed from either the left or right side of the gun, making it suitable for use by both infantry and in armored vehicles. The M2A2 weapon system has been tested to well over 50,000 rounds. Its single-breech lock system allows for field rebuild, eliminating the need for depot-level maintenance during its lifetime and thereby greatly reducing logistical support.

usord.com

Caliber/Bore: 12.7mm
Barrel Length: N/A
FFL Status: N/A
Type of Links: N/A
Rate of Fire: N/A

ZID (OPEN JOINT STOCK COMPANY “V.A.DEGTYAREV PLANT”)

Pecheneg 6P41

The 7.62mm 6P41 Pecheneg machine gun is intended to engage hostile manpower, fire means and aerial targets. The whole range of rifle cartridges is used to fire from the machine gun. The gas regulator ensures the reliable operation of machine gun automatics in various operating conditions. The high degree of commonality with the PKM machine gun and similar layout of its automatics action ensure the reliability of the Pecheneg machine gun in any operating conditions. The 6P41 Pecheneg incorporates some design novelties aimed to increase the effectiveness of barrel cooling, which has allowed a spare barrel to be eliminated from the machine gun set.

zid.ru/eng

Caliber/Bore: 7.62mm
Barrel Length: N/A
FFL Status: N/A
Type of Links: N/A
Rate of Fire: 600–800 RPM

SADJ has always traveled the world in search of the innovators in small arms and weapons. Sometimes we’re able to coordinate visits with a group of factories in a country and bring our readers a good overview of what’s happening in the arms industry there. In this issue, we discuss our visit to Israel and the new products we observed.

At the range we were presented with a nice selection of IWI products to fire, from the Tavors and X95 9mms, the Jericho handguns, to the Galils and Ace, as well as the Negev variants.

IWI

Our visit started with IWI (Israeli Weapons Industries: www.iwi.net / www.iwi.us), one of the core small arms manufacturers in the SK group. Ronen Hamudot, Executive V.P. of Marketing & Sales, and Shiri Katsav, Marketing Communications Manager, worked to arrange our visit and testing. We met with them and Assaf Elias, IWI US Executive Director, Zeev Shneorson, the Next Generation R&D Manager, and numerous other engineers and demonstrators.

The SK Group has approximately 1,500 employees in the group; the member companies are IWI, Meprolight, Camero, Israeli Shipyards Ltd., and UOS. IWI has been in the small arms business for over 80 years, and manufactured such legendary weapons as the Uzi and the Galil series.

SADJ Editor-in-Chief Dan Shea receives the range briefing before starting the test fire on IWI’s integrally suppressed 9x19mm X95-S submachine gun, with Meprolight MOR optic.

The first product we will discuss is called the eLog. Designers have been trying to fit a round-counter system into small arms for many years, but the efforts have fallen short – either the weight is too great, or the accuracy is to low, or some other problem stalls the program. IWI approached this in a different manner. Round counting of rounds fired is just one of many functions of the eLog. eLog digitizes the performance of the weapon, records it and makes the information available to the armorer and management. This can be done at a simple level as squad or operator armorer, up to macro level of analyzing entire battalions of weapons use and condition.

According to Uri Amit, President and CEO, “Despite today’s widespread use of digital documentation across industries and types of organizations, the military has been slow to make the switch. For the most part, armies are still using outdated documentation methods, even for keeping track of and maintaining their weapons. To overcome this critical lag, IWI has developed eLog – helping armies to quickly and easily become digitized, and thus enabling them to make decisions based on comprehensive, real-time information.”

IWI’s X95-S integrally suppressed submachine gun in 9x19mm, with Meprolight MOR optic.

He continued, “The system will provide armies with invaluable, previously unavailable information that will enable full control and monitoring of weapon spare parts and ammunition inventories, and will deliver alerts regarding weapon thefts.”

The eLog system consists of three main components: weapon-embedded sensor modules, terminals that collect available data, and armorer management software.

Every weapon is equipped with an embedded Concealed Sensor Module. This sensor records the firearm’s real-time operation and performance. The sensor is operated by a replaceable coin battery with an average operation cycle of at least 3 years, depending on usage. The sensor reports the number of shots fired, the weapon’s serial number, and the last shooting record. Additional information is available upon customer requirement. Communication between the sensor and the terminal reader is via RF technology, transmitting within up to a 40m range.

Several hundred rounds were fired out of the X95-S. It was comfortable to handle, easy to control, very accurate, and there was no serious blowback that is the hallmark of many suppressed firearms. As a bullpup type system, the blowback of gases from pressure from the suppressor chambers can be a problem. It was quite a pleasant firearm to shoot, with virtually no interference from unwanted gasses. The system has enough volume so that the heat from firing does not build up too quickly, but the size is unobtrusive. All in all, an exceptional submachine gun.

The Mobile Terminal Reader is a rugged PDA that communicates with the sensor module and collects the recorded data. The terminal can simultaneously read data from a specific group of weapons.

The computer-based Armorer Management Software provides a detailed view of each weapon’s status and performance. According to the accumulated data, the system generates recommendations or modifications for maintenance and repair of the weapons. The location of stored weapons is continuously verified, and alerts are sent if a weapon is removed without authorization or stolen. The system manages inventory of spare parts and ammunition consumption, and logs weapon history.

At the range we were presented with a nice selection of IWI products to fire, from the Tavors and X95 9mms, the Jericho handguns, to the Galils and Ace, as well as the Negev variants.

SADJ Editor-in-Chief Dan Shea receives the range briefing before starting the test fire on IWI’s integrally suppressed 9x19mm X95-S submachine gun, with Meprolight MOR optic.

Tavor prototype made in non-functional materials; this was one of the concept models and is in the meeting room at IWI.

IWI’s X95-S integrally suppressed submachine gun in 9x19mm, with Meprolight MOR optic.

Several hundred rounds were fired out of the X95-S. It was comfortable to handle, easy to control, very accurate, and there was no serious blowback that is the hallmark of many suppressed firearms. As a bullpup type system, the blowback of gases from pressure from the suppressor chambers can be a problem. It was quite a pleasant firearm to shoot, with virtually no interference from unwanted gasses. The system has enough volume so that the heat from firing does not build up too quickly, but the size is unobtrusive. All in all, an exceptional submachine gun.

Tavor prototype made in non-functional materials; this was one of the concept models and is in the meeting room at IWI.

Tavor Flattop with Mepro 21 day/night illuminated sight, ready for firing. With a weight of 3.28 kg (7.23 lbs.), an overall length of 725mm (28.5 inches) and a barrel length of 457mm (18 inches), the Tavor is a very compact, efficient weapon.

Tavor Flattop with Mepro 21 day/night illuminated sight, ready for firing. With a weight of 3.28 kg (7.23 lbs.), an overall length of 725mm (28.5 inches) and a barrel length of 457mm (18 inches), the Tavor is a very compact, efficient weapon.

SADJ Editor-in-Chief Dan Shea fires the Tavor Flattop in 5.56x45mm. Dan’s response was that this is very controllable, and very accurate. Pairing with the M21 reflex sight is a good match, making for quick target acquisition.

IWI tames the Micro Beast with the Uzi Pro. This small, compact machine pistol/submachine gun is now amazingly controllable and still has a high rate of fire. It is closed bolt, lightweight, and has 3 safety mechanisms built in. It is small, compact enough to be carried concealed and deployed with excellent accuracy. Weight 2.32 kg (5.15 lbs.); length stock folded 300mm (11.8 inches); length stock extended 529mm (20.8 inches) and barrel length 152mm (5.98 inches).

SADJ Editor-in-Chief Dan Shea fires the Tavor Flattop in 5.56x45mm. Dan’s response was that this is very controllable, and very accurate. Pairing with the M21 reflex sight is a good match, making for quick target acquisition.

One of the legendary machine guns in the world today is the Negev in 5.56x45mm. In the photos, we show the 5.56x45mm variant, but the newest offering from IWI is the 7.62x51mm NG7 (markings shown). Many weapons experts consider that a “Squad Automatic Weapon” needs to be in .30 caliber to perform all of the longer range and suppressive fire functions asked for from a “SAW.” The 5.56x45mm versions are more of a “belt fed rifle” and can take the place of the automatic rifleman in a squad quite nicely. The M249/Minimi, HK23E and Stoner 63A are examples in 5.56mm as well as the extremely controllable Negev. IWI has moved the bar up a notch by making the NG7, a Negev in 7.62x51mm that will compete with the top weapons on today’s market like the FN MK48 Mod 1 and the U.S. Ordnance MK43 Mod 0, both of which have outstanding features. Our test firing of the NG7 was quite satisfactory, if only a short standing fire episode. We plan on doing a much more in-depth military test in the future.

One of the legendary machine guns in the world today is the Negev in 5.56x45mm. In the photos, we show the 5.56x45mm variant, but the newest offering from IWI is the 7.62x51mm NG7 (markings shown). Many weapons experts consider that a “Squad Automatic Weapon” needs to be in .30 caliber to perform all of the longer range and suppressive fire functions asked for from a “SAW.” The 5.56x45mm versions are more of a “belt fed rifle” and can take the place of the automatic rifleman in a squad quite nicely. The M249/Minimi, HK23E and Stoner 63A are examples in 5.56mm as well as the extremely controllable Negev. IWI has moved the bar up a notch by making the NG7, a Negev in 7.62x51mm that will compete with the top weapons on today’s market like the FN MK48 Mod 1 and the U.S. Ordnance MK43 Mod 0, both of which have outstanding features.

Our test firing of the NG7 was quite satisfactory, if only a short standing fire episode. We plan on doing a much more in-depth military test in the future.

IWI NG7

IWI tames the Micro Beast with the Uzi Pro. This small, compact machine pistol/submachine gun is now amazingly controllable and still has a high rate of fire. It is closed bolt, lightweight, and has 3 safety mechanisms built in. It is small, compact enough to be carried concealed and deployed with excellent accuracy. Weight 2.32 kg (5.15 lbs.); length stock folded 300mm (11.8 inches); length stock extended 529mm (20.8 inches) and barrel length 152mm (5.98 inches).

IWI Uzi Pro

IWI Uzi Pro

Meprolight

Our visit with Meprolight (www.meprolight.com) was combined with the visit to IWI (a sister company). We had the advantage of having the IWI firearms at the range and the ability to use the Meprolight products as they were intended. Amir Karo, Director of Sales & Marketing U.S. and Canada, guided us through the different products, along with Meprolight’s engineers. The first item was the MEPRO 21 (M21) Day/Night illuminated reflex sight. It was offered with new camouflage and several different reticles. The MEPRO MOR, which is the NRA’s Optic of the Year for 2015, is a Multi-Purpose Reflex Sight with Laser Pointers. It has an active reflex sight with 30mm lens for fast target acquisition, as well as both a visible and non-visible laser. Just as important, per the Israeli Special Forces requests, the MOR has a passive self-illuminated system for the times the operator might be lacking battery power.

On the table, left to right: MEPRO NOA 7x uncooled Thermal Weapon Sight, MEPRO NOA NYX 2x/3x uncooled Thermal Weapon Sight, MEPRO Hunter 6x Night Vision sniper optic, MEPRO Hunter 4x Night Vision Sniper Optic, MEPRO MESLAS Fire-Control sniper optic.

On the table, left to right: MEPRO NOA 7x uncooled Thermal Weapon Sight, MEPRO NOA NYX 2x/3x uncooled Thermal Weapon Sight, MEPRO Hunter 6x Night Vision sniper optic, MEPRO Hunter 4x Night Vision Sniper Optic, MEPRO MESLAS Fire-Control sniper optic.

MEPRO MESLAS is an innovative Fire-Control Riflescope 10×40, designed for sniper rifles. The sophisticated, compact, multi-function system incorporates a single-pulse laser rangefinder operating in an eye-safe spectral range (1.54 µm, invisible to night vision devices), a sniper’s telescope, and a fire-control system. When measuring distances, the MESLAS automatically calculates the elevation angle according to the ranged target accurate adjustability. Fitted with azimuth and elevation adjustment knobs, the optical axes of the telescope can be aligned with the axes of the weapon barrel and compensate for side wind and target travel. Compact fire robust system withstands environmental conditions, as well as shocks and vibrations. Optional features include measurements of temperature, humidity, weapon elevation, and axial angle sensors for ballistic calculations. This author has seldom seen an optic that can help the operator as quickly and efficiently as the MEPRO MESLAS. We were only able to test it for ranging without a rifle due to no access to a .338 LM rated range, but the information that came from lasing multiple targets at different distances was fast, intuitive, and we look forward to providing an on-the-range test report in the near future.

Advantages:

+ Compact fire control system

+ Single-pulse laser rangefinder operating in an eye-safe spectral range

+ Measures distances and elevation angles

+ Optional measuring of temperature, humidity, weapon elevation and axial angle sensors for ballistic calculations

MEPRO MESLAS

TAR Ideal Concepts

Aviad Matza the CEO of TAR Ideal (www.tarideal.com), and Harte Feldman hosted us at their facility, and we spoke with Vadim Gold the Special Forces Sales Manager and Alex Ahss Police and Prisons Sales Manager. It was a very illuminating visit to a bustling company – the offices are tight quartered and there is amazing energy in the air. Each section of the offices is focused on a different aspect of Tar’s business, which spans the globe. TAR Ideal Concepts Ltd. was formed in 1990 and has evolved into a one-stop shop for defense supplies and training. TAR supplies equipment, training, analysis, and defense systems, frequently using the turn-key approach. They analyze what the requirements are and provide a complete solution to the customer. The international division is divided into sections, and TAR utilizes as much from the local Israeli industry as they can. There are 4 layers to the company as well: Import, Supply, Distribution, and training. TAR has recently branched into designing products they see a need and three products that TAR Ideal is offering that we were shown are:

TL5 Pro beacon

TL5 Pro beacon is a personal ID system that can be worn on helmets, shoulders, or placed on important items. It can be used as visual or infrared. The TL5 Pro is made of nylon and polycarbonate, fits the standard Picatinny rail, has 4 circular infrared LEDs (830nm) and the colored LEDs are white/blue/red. A single CR123 battery or 1xAA battery will operate it. It is TAR’s desire that the TL5 Pro helps stop incidents of not-so- “friendly fire.”

TLG Weapon Target Designator laser system

The TLG Weapon Target Designator laser system was conceived by TAR to enter a market not addressed by the higher end costs of most laser designators. TLG-1 is a dual beam weapon mounted (Picatinny rail) IR and red aiming laser. These can be activated by an integral on/off switch, or, a remote pressure switch.

TAROS 4x32 Prism scope

With the TAROS 4×32 Prism scope, once again, TAR was designing for quality optics for a customer with a lower budget range. This 4 power optic has an illuminated ballistic CQ reticle working as a red-dot. It is waterproof to 1 meter, shockproof, and fogproof.

Camero

Camero Tactical (www.camero-tech.com) Through the Wall Visioning Systems are an incredible step up for intelligence gathering before dynamic entry. Camero has many other products and uses including Vision Map, Uniscope, and Oshira – all stories for another day. The star of the show for us was the Xaver 400 unit. It is a radiation safe portable system that the user can place on most standard walls and essentially map the locations and positions (standing, sitting, laying down) of the people that are on the other side of the wall. There are Xaver 100 units with less capability, and the Xaver 800 which gives 3-D mapping and many other features, but the 400 unit seems to be the most popular at present. Camero describes the technology involved as follows: “Camero is the leading provider of three dimensional (3D) Ultra Wide Band (UWB) imaging technology with products and development efforts in through-wall imaging systems as well as passenger screening devices. Camero’s core technology is based on micro-power pulse radar technology with innovative state of the art image and signal processing algorithms and high end firmware design.”

Features of the Xaver 400:

+ Optimized rugged design for tactical operations

+ Reliable detection of people behind most common wall materials

+ Simple user interface with tracking capabilities for intuitive interpretation

+ Simultaneous detection of static and moving objects

+ 20m (65 ft.) detection range

+ Ability to operate in a stand-off mode (at a distance from the wall)

+ Provides information about room dimensions and major infrastructure elements

+ Optional internal wireless video transmitter for remote display

Silver Shadow

Silver Shadow (www.silver-shadow.com) is a licensed exporter of weapons and material in Israel. They are licensed firearms manufacturers, traders, and can sell to Israeli MOD and police. Silver Shadow brought the world the Cornershot platform, which SADJ has covered in the past, as well as the high grade Gilboa rifles.

Silver Shadow

Micky Shoham, VP of Sales and Marketing for Silver Shadow met with us and discussed the future of the Gilboa rifles – a very high grade AR/M16 type system that is evolved with their cutting edge manufacturing techniques and the R&D team composed of several well-known Israeli arms designers.

No mention of Gilboa rifles is complete without a view of the Snake; the dual barreled M16 variant that is finely tuned and designed to provide multiple hits from each shot fired. This of course, is not Gilboa’s only rifle, they have many ranging from very short barreled (and reliable) to Designated Marksman Rifles.

CAA – Command Arms Accessories

Mikey Hartman, CEO of CAA (www.commandarms.com/), and Shahar Dagan, the VP of Marketing and Sales hosted us for a factory visit at their facility about 5 miles from Gaza strip. They have 3 manufacturing facilities; one in Israel, one in the United States, and one in Eastern Europe, with a total of around 100 employees. The Israeli factory that we visited was running 24 hours per day, six days per week, and many of the CNC operators were Russian speakers trained in the
high-grade Russian factories.

CAA’s flagship product is the Roni; a carbine conversion for a variety of handguns. The buyer needs to select which handgun he will be using in the Roni, as the shell is distinct for each. Many of CAA’s innovations are built into the Roni, such as the collapsible stock. We have tested these in the past and found that taking a Glock or SIG pistol and adding the solid shooting platform of the Roni can really extend the range and accuracy of the basic pistol shooter.

CAA has an excellent AR-15/M16 pistol grip that is very ergonomic, as well as an incredible array of accessories. The “Roni” is their flagship product at this time and they are trying to comply with (and hopefully avoid) the Short Barreled Shotgun and/or Any Other Weapon classifications in the United States, which has limited the market there. Worldwide, this does not present a problem and the Roni is quite popular. The magazines produced at CAA are up-to-date, solid, dependable, and the window view is very nice as well. Watch upcoming issues of SADJ for their debut of the new “communicative” magazines. These really will be a great leap forward for the operator.

CAA’s flagship product is the Roni; a carbine conversion for a variety of handguns. The buyer needs to select which handgun he will be using in the Roni, as the shell is distinct for each. Many of CAA’s innovations are built into the Roni, such as the collapsible stock. We have tested these in the past and found that taking a Glock or SIG pistol and adding the solid shooting platform of the Roni can really extend the range and accuracy of the basic pistol shooter.

Presented in March 2012, it is the intention of Israel Weapon Industries (IWI) that the light machine gun (LMG) NG7 caliber 7.62 NATO will replace part of the Negev caliber 5.56×45 and part of the GPMG MAG 7.62×51 that are currently in use.

The design, as well as the action, the locking system and the operative system are clearly derived from those of the Negev 5.56 NATO, from which it inherits a good number of features.

The project, before going into production, faced an intensive period of field testing that the IDF nicknamed “ping-pong” that lasted about three years.  During this time several NG7 prototypes were issued to IDF combat units and returned to IWI with the related feedback.  Those feedbacks inevitably generated design modifications until a final version of the product, fully responding to specific Tsaha’l requirements, had been obtained.

The NG7 is equipped with an IWI ELOG system.  This electronically logs the real use of the weapon through a computer, allowing in turn the unit armorers to provide programmed maintenance according to real parameters and eventually to investigate any malfunction circumstances.

Operating System
The NG7 is a light machine gun (LMG) operated by a gas system called “gas impact.”  The firearm starts the shooting cycle with the open bolt to avoid cook-off after prolonged fire.  When the trigger is pulled the bolt, that is locked in a full rear position, is released and starts to go forward pushed by two compressed recoil springs.  During its travel a cartridge is taken from the belt, chambered and the bolt, thanks to its locking lugs, engages the corresponding lugs in the barrel extension and locks.  The bolt carrier, in this phase, keeps going forward, exposing the firing pin that strikes the cartridge primer.  Upon discharge, the bullet goes through the barrel, pushed by the rapidly expanding gas, until one third of the barrel length is reached, where the gas port is located.  A portion of the gas vents through the hole and runs through a regulating valve and the gas cylinder until it hits a short piston that is integral to two operating rods linked to the bolt carrier.  The gases then push back the piston and, through the two parallel operating rods, the bolt carrier located in the upper part of this subassembly that, operating a cam, makes the bolt head to rotate and unlock.  The cartridge is extracted and ejected along with the link of the feeding belt and, during the rearward movement, the bolt carrier operates the belt feeding mechanism making it advance and putting a fresh cartridge in position to be chambered until it reaches the maximum rear position.  If the trigger is kept pulled, and the fire selector is on the full auto position, the cycle is repeated until the weapon runs out of ammunition or the trigger is released.

Structure and Components
The NG7 structure is divided in four main groups: barrel, action, bolt/and bolt carrier, stock.

The NG7 can mount two different barrels, made by cold hammering process, of different lengths: one for the standard version 20-inch long (508 mm) barrel and one for the SF (Special Forces) version being 16.5 inches long (420 mm); both with 4 grooves right hand 1:12 inches (1 turn every 304.8 mm) rifling twist.  The chamber and bore are chrome lined to reduce barrel wear.  A 5 radial slot flashider is threaded on the muzzle and about one third of the total length there is the gas port block.  This component, mounted on the barrel by pressure and pinned, has three sub-components: gas regulator valve, gas cylinder and front sights.

The gas regulator valve, internally chrome lined to resist the high temperature of detonation gases, has only two positions instead of three, the assault rifle magazine feed option of the Negev in 5.56 is not present here: one for use in normal conditions and the other when the firearm is dirty, ensuring the correct operation of the gas system.  The front post-type sight, like the M16A1, is protected by two sturdy ears opened on the sides and adjustable both in elevation and windage to perform the mechanical zeroing.

A little before the cartridge chamber there is the carry handle that can be laterally folded and provided with a plastic grip for heat insulation.  It can also be used to remove the barrel when change is needed during a firing action.

Feed tray, with the feed lever protruding from the central slot. Note the wall of the feed tray shaped to allow a smooth belt feed.

The barrel ends with a barrel extension provided in the upper part with the lugs for fast locking it to the breech block.  Internally it shows the locking lugs to accommodate the bolt and completed with the feed ramp to facilitate correct cartridge chambering.

The NG7 body is made by ribbed and stamped steel sheets and assembled to machined steel and welded blocks.  The metal folding process is obtained using a particular industrial stamping method in order to obtain the metal box that forms the weapon’s receiver accurately respecting the project dimensions with minimal tolerances.

We can divide the weapon body in three sections: front, central and railed.  The front section is a stamped steel cradle where is attached by means of screws the plastic front handguard.  On the sides of the handguard, front portion, there are two short Picatinny rails to mount electronic devices such as target designators or any other electronic/optronic device useful for the mission.  At the front end of the action is welded the first steel block, used as a front support for the barrel, which also holds the gas cylinder and the locking base for the weapon bipod.  Welded on the left side there is the swivel ring to hook one end of the assault sling.  The NG7 bipod is folded toward the muzzle, allowing the shooter to aim the weapon not only to the left and to the right, but also to rotate it on its longitudinal axis and to be adapted to any configuration of the supporting surface.  In the central section is another machined steel block, welded to the action metal sheet.  The block shows at the front side the locking lugs to lock the barrel.  The action of locking and unlocking the barrel is operated by a side button, on the right upper part of the action, just before the receiver cover.

When a barrel is inserted in place during a barrel change, the top locking lugs, thanks to inclined plans, move sidewards to the corresponding metal projections until the insertion is completed.  At this point the barrel catch button is operated by a spring and returns to the initial position locking the barrel in place.

A safety mechanism on the left side of the barrel catch button does not allow that it can be depressed if the receiver cover is not opened.  The bottom of the steel block is milled to allow the bolt group to move; the rail section starts from the central block and reaches the rear end of the action, were the stock begins.  This section takes its name from the two rails that guide the bolt group during its cyclic movement.  They are welded to the internal walls of the action to ensure the maximum precision for a smooth operation while firing.

NG7 breech showing on the top of the barrel extension, the locking lugs to lock the barrel to the action.

On the right side of the rail section just behind the central block are two ejection ports: the upper one is for the links of the disintegrating ammunition belt, the lower one is for the spent cases.  Both are closed when carrying the weapon by two metallic lids to prevent dirt and debris from getting inside the machine gun’s mechanism.  Note that even being two different lids, they are articulated by a hinge.  When the lids are closed a little projection in the internal wall lower lid engages and locks to a notch in the bolt carrier.  When the bolt is armed and starts its rearward movement, the projection unlocks and, operated by springs, the two lids open and fold over the action.

The cocking knob is non-reciprocating and located on the right hand side.  Welded to the weapon is the related rail where the knob travels.  The cocking knob is provided with a ratchet safety mechanism to avoid accidental discharges of the gun if the cocking knob is not put in the full forward position after cocking the bolt.  The case ejector is internal, a pivoting type, located under the left bolt rail and operated by a suitable bolt carrier curve.

Different from its smaller “sister” in intermediate caliber, the NG7 does not have a magazine well for the assault rifle magazine nor the related lid to keep the dirt out.  This machine gun is belt fed only, from both a standard ammunition box or fabric and polymer drums with capacity of 100 or 125 7.62 NATO rounds, docked to the proper rail located in the lower part of the weapon body.  The absence of a magazine well opening allows the NG7 to take a great benefit in terms of action rigidity.

Israel Weapon Industries (IWI) a leader in the production of combat-proven small arms for governments, armies, and law enforcement agencies around the world has just introduced their newest Uzi submachine gun (SMG), the 9mm Uzi Pro. Developed in cooperation with the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), the 9mm Uzi Pro SMG is the newest member of the legendary Uzi family – one of the most popular weapon families in the world, with millions of units sold around the globe. Exceptionally lightweight and compact, the Uzi Pro is an ideal solution for either concealed or openly carried use – for law enforcement, VIP protection and Special Forces.

Ergonomically designed and easy to use by right or left-handed users, it offers closed bolt operation for maximum accuracy and safety. With many of its components made of advanced polymeric materials, the Uzi Pro’s features include Picatinny rails, ergonomic butt, built-in foldable assault handle and pistol-type magazine release button. It also provides a quick fitting suppressor, full auto and single shot and adjustable shoulder stock with mounted cheek rest.

IWI’s goal was to incorporate the latest technological advances without compromising the extremely reliable, globally recognized Uzi, in order to make it more ergonomic and user-friendly, and equipped to handle the full range of scenarios faced in modern warfare. This goal has now been fully achieved. Israel Weapon Industries (IWI), located in the center of Israel, is a world leader in small arms for the past 80 years. IWI is a member of the SK Group, which is composed of companies that develop and manufacture a wide array of military products for governmental entities, armies, and law enforcement agencies around the world. IWI’s most-known products include the Tavor and Galil Ace families of assault rifles, the Negev light machine gun, the legendary Uzi SMG (Mini Micro and Uzi Pro) and the Jericho family of pistols. For more information you can contact them at Israel Weapon Industries, Ltd., P.O. Box 63, Ramat-Hasharon 47100 Israel. Phone: +972-3-7606000. Fax: +972-3-7606001. They are on the web at www.iwi.net.