The promoter’s attention to detail appears to have paid off very well for many at this second show. The promoters brought in a very strong showing of Kuwaiti government decision makers, and all together, the 2013 edition of GDA went very, very well. This is a regional show and there were 106 exhibitors from 21 countries. Total visitors were 2,589, with Embassy/Military attaches from 24 countries, and visitors from a total of 50 countries.

General Directorate of Border Security, Kuwait had a variety of their weapons on display including an M4 carbine and a Saco Defense manufactured M60 GPMG.

December 10, 2013. Kuwait Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense, Sheikh Khalid Al- Jarrah Al-Sabah, along with the Undersecretary of Defense, and the Chief of Staff at the opening of the GDA 2013 exhibition.

Al Sada General Trading & Contracting, a Kuwaiti firm started in 1985, represents a number of foreign brands including PWS, Laser Devices, and Camelback to name a few. SADJ Editor-in-Chief Dan Shea (right) met with them and discussed Al Sada’s regional plans for expansion and their connections with the Kuwait Military. (www.alsada-gen.com)

In the Kuwait Commandos Brigade 25 display, there was a Russian OTS-03 SVU bullpup style sniper rifle in 7.62x54R caliber, and we were able to photograph the reticle in its optic. The integral “suppressor” is actually a flash hider system, although it undoubtedly has some effect.

The General Directorate of Security Forces of Kuwait had a threat display that showcased weapons, mines, bombs, and improvised devices encountered in the First Gulf War and actions since that time.

The General Directorate of Security Forces of Kuwait had a threat display that showcased weapons, mines, bombs, and improvised devices encountered in the First Gulf War and actions since that time.

The General Directorate of Security Forces of Kuwait had a threat display that showcased weapons, mines, bombs, and improvised devices encountered in the First Gulf War and actions since that time.

The General Directorate of Security Forces of Kuwait had a threat display that showcased weapons, mines, bombs, and improvised devices encountered in the First Gulf War and actions since that time.

The General Directorate of Security Forces of Kuwait had a threat display that showcased weapons, mines, bombs, and improvised devices encountered in the First Gulf War and actions since that time.

Over the summer of 2014, Small Arms Defense Journal received the unique opportunity to tour Accuracy International’s production facility in southern England. SADJ also got a chance to sit down and talk with Dave Walls and Tom Irwin about the company’s history and future.

Small Arms Defense Journal: Explain the beginnings of Accuracy International from your perspective.

Dave Walls: I was a qualified toolmaker making various press tools and fixtures along with my work colleague Dave Caig. I was a competitive target shooter and represented my local rifle club, my county, and eventually I qualified to join the national squad and shot for Great Britain in international competitions. Dave Caig was also a club and county shooter and represented Scotland. We both repaired our own guns; our engineering backgrounds enabled us to design better components to replace existing weaknesses in our rifles. It didn’t take long before other club members noticed that we had done modifications to make our guns shoot well. And when they needed work done they would ask if we could do what was necessary to get them up and running again. We worked through lunch breaks and after work to make the parts needed to repair other club member’s rifles. Our payment for this was for them to buy us a beer at the local pub. Before long we were repairing guns for shooters all over Sussex, Hampshire, Essex and other neighboring counties in the UK. We received so many repairs it became impossible to do them all for drinks so we had to start charging. The work demand grew so much that we could no longer continue to operate during our lunch breaks, as the demand was too great, this progressed into us buying our own machinery to install in my garden shed. The demand for repairs continued to grow more and more, taking up most of our time outside of our full time jobs, we had reached a breaking point where we were in it full time or pack it all in and have our lives back. We decided to see how much money we were earning part time to determine whether this would be enough to support one of us at least in a full time job. So over a three-month period we kept a record of our earning, and were surprised to discover that we were making more money part time than in our full time jobs.

SADJ: You made a decision to venture into a new career?

Dave: I wasn’t happy with my full time job because due to staff shortages the company decided to move me from my tool making position to work on form grinding on a surface grinder, which I knew long term, would be bad for my health. My boss at that time told me that he couldn’t find anyone skilled enough at form grinding but he could replace a toolmaker more easily. This gave me the hard shove I needed to persuade me to give in my notice. It was a big decision to make quitting a good job, going into the unknown. I had a mortgage, a wife and two kids, but I have never ever had a reason to look back. On the day I left, my boss said to me, “You’ll never make any money by just selling a few guns.” A statement that has proved to be far from the truth. Dave Caig and I started a business partnership and traded under the name of C&W products, which stands for Caig & Walls. A few years later at a three positional rifle shoot we met up with Malcolm Cooper, at the time he was one of the best shots in the UK, and later became a twice Olympic Gold medalist and world champion. After the match we all went to a barbecue where he was told about the replica Colt pistols that we had made, he was very interested and asked if he could see them. I lived less than a mile from the barbecue so we left and drove to my house. After seeing the pistols he said to me, “You’ve got the potential to design your own rifle.” To which we replied that we already had been designing our own action for a target rifle. Malcolm wanted to see the action and after looking at it he asked us if we would make him one, which we agreed to do. He later shot a new 300 meter world record. Malcolm at that time was the owner of a gun shop in Portsmouth. Dave Caig and I formed a mutual agreement to do repairs and re-barreling for him, as we did for several other gun shops. Trade was building up along with our reputation. Soon we were taking in repairs and tuning of rifles from top international competitors from all over the world. Malcolm was approached by a contact in the British Army about a tender (contract) for a new sniper rifle and he came along to discuss with us the possibility of putting a magazine in one of our target rifles. We had never made a magazine fed rifle before as all my interest was in target shooting which was single shot. Malcolm said, “I’ll get you any gun you want, if you want to have a look and see if you can get any ideas from them.” He produced about 8 rifles and I discarded about 5 of them.

SADJ: What ended up as the design of the magazine?

Dave: Initially I settled for a Springfield magazine, basically because it was easier to fit in my gun than any of the others. I designed the magazine port in the underside of the action body around this magazine and it seemed to work quite well. Then Malcolm submitted this weapon to both the SBS and the SAS who were also interested. After the trails on these weapons were made an order was placed for 42 rifles with aluminum chassis’ with a wood covering this was the predecessor to the later developed L96A1. Then we found a company that would make honeycomb-like stocks with a hard surface on the outside.

SADJ: Where are those 42 original rifles today?

Dave: Well some went to Hereford and some went to Dorset; I don’t know where they went from there. They might even still be there. Following on from this after the Falklands War the British infantry got interested in tendering for a new sniper rifle. This contract was for 1,212 rifles plus spares. We decided to enter the tender, but we didn’t think we’d ever win, but we could use the trail to obtain feedback on our product. At this time we were still working from a garden shed and we didn’t think the British Army would be interested in our rifle. We literally went ahead, submitted our tender for this trial along with 17 other companies, most of them American and European with Remington, Winchester, Walther, Browning, Mauser, Beretta, BSA and Parker Hale among them.

SADJ: Some of these companies had been in existence for a hundred years already.

Dave: Of course, and they make hundreds of guns a week, whereas between us if we were lucky we’d probably get only one rifle every 4 or 5 weeks. We were a very small business in comparison. We submitted our trial rifle and surprisingly enough the army actually quite liked it. From 17 rifle entries it went down to about 8, and we were still in it. Then it went from 8 to 5 and we were still there again. Then we began to have some worries that we might win this. The worry was what would we do if we were to win. The next elimination process took it down to 3 and we were still a contender. BSA was eliminated from the group, leaving Parker Hale and ourselves to take part in a shootout to win the contract which we won with the provision that it would be manufactured by a company with the approved quality standards.

SADJ: They must have found out that all you had was a garden shed operation?

Dave: Yes, they realized that and told us that it would have to be made by a reputable company and overseen by us. So we were sent to a company in Dartford, which was chosen by the Ministry of Defense (MOD) to manufacture the rifles. We would oversee the production for the first batch of rifles helping their production manager with our knowledge. Before Accuracy International Ltd. was formed Malcolm suggested to us that we would stand a better chance of success if we promoted the rifle in his name as he had world recognition for being a world champion. Malcolm then asked if we wanted Fame or Fortune: “If you want fame, we do it in your name. If you want fortune, we do it in mine.” I didn’t have any money at that time and neither did Dave Caig so we settled for fortune. Malcolm promoted the weapon in his name and that’s the way it began. We then started assembling the rifles ourselves in a company in Portsmouth, which was the start of Accuracy International Ltd. The company expanded and we started purchasing machines. I managed the production, programming and running the machines along with my son who had recently done a CNC programming course at college. More machines were purchased along with the increase of employees to six people working on the machine shop floor. After we had completed the MOD contract, we tendered for the Swedish contract and won the trial, which would become the Arctic Warfare System (AW Rifle). This was soon followed by Holland, Belgium, Denmark and Germany and was followed by several other nations that could not afford extensive trials and were happy to follow on the judgment of other countries. In 1999, Accuracy International was sold to a group of investors and Malcolm Cooper retained 10%. Accuracy International now had new people running the business and maintained the normal running of the company until 2001/2002 when they decided to outsource everything made in the machine shop and shut down the manufacturing side of the company. They only kept two machines and these were to make stock sides and sold all the other machinery. Tom Irwin was appointed as sales and marketing manager. In 2005 the company went into receiverships and within the first minute it was announced, I stood up and said, “I want to buy it back.” Tom immediately walked over to me and said I’d like to join you, so we got together and did it. Since we took the company back it’s gone in leaps and bounds. My focus has always been on making the guns shoot well and my target background married up with the military side extremely well. I needed somebody that had a better head for business than me and Tom fulfilled that role. I rely on Tom’s judgment on that side of things.

SADJ: So how does this affect the management of the company?

Tom Irwin: We’re both in charge; we don’t have a present managing director or CEO that runs the company. We share the responsibilities.

Dave: We have a mutual understanding that if we don’t agree on an idea we will not do it, but we will find a solution to the problems that we can both agree on.

SADJ: This has been working since 2005?

Dave: Yes, that’s when we bought the company back.

Tom: Yes, I was mostly in the States but then I got involved over here, always on the selling/sales side. After 2005 then there were four of us originally, Dave Walls, Dave Caig, the original designers and founders of the company, and then there was a finance guy and myself. There were four of us that literally split responsibilities and then Dave Caig retired so we bought back his shares. The other person remains as a shareholder but is no longer involved in the management of the company. It is now Dave and I and we did a further split of responsibilities. It works well.

SADJ: Now that the company has a phenomenal military contract success rate, has there ever been given any thought to a target rifle?

Dave: This whole time I’ve enjoyed hitting small targets at long range. I would think we could go back to our beginnings but this is more of a passion more than a business. We stayed away from assault rifles as we know our expertise is making accurate bolt action rifles. There’s no point of us trying to get into a market that is already saturated with loads and loads of companies making that sort of thing, trying to compete with people who have been making this stuff for years and years. We’ll stick to what we’re best at.

SADJ: Where did you get the idea for the thumbhole?

Dave: Target rifles. I used to shoot with thumbhole stocks and the angle of the hand was better than a traditional cranked wrist sort of thing. It puts the trigger in line so you can pull the trigger back in a direct line. Lots of target technology went into the development of that stock. A competent engineer with a reasonable amount of firearms knowledge could design a rifle but to design one to force someone into a good shooting position by the design of the stock is not that easy. Between Malcolm Cooper, Dave Caig and myself we had a vast experience of shooting and stock design. We’d come up with stocks for all different builds. I was the tallest, so we would modify it to suit me, then Malcolm was the shortest. So we could actually model the stock for the three different builds of shooting.

SADJ: Much has been written about the L96’s “flat bottomed receiver.” Can you shed some light on this?

Dave: There are a lot of articles that have been written about this, explaining the stress factors of the steel are stronger and all the tremendous mechanical advantage. I looked at these articles and thought to myself, “What a brainy guy they think I am!” The actual fact is that when designing the L96, I went to the steel rack and I didn’t have a round bit of metal, I only had a rectangular piece and everybody started copying it. The design turned out to have a lot of advantages, but they were tripped over by accident. One of the advantages is that it lends itself quite nicely to a double row magazine whereas if it was a round action, a double row magazine wouldn’t work as well. Another advantage of a square action body is bonding it on to the chassis. When it comes to machining, it makes life a lot easier because you have a nice flat base to hold on to, and easy to check because of square sides. There are lots of advantages to what we did, but it was tripped over by accident and not as scientific as people think.

SADJ: What do does AI think of the Precision Sniper Rifle (PSR) Contract?

Tom Irwin: The probability of winning it was low; we certainly tried as hard as we could to win and we came up with a product that was good enough to win. But to be realistic about it, I knew when you’re up against Remington in the USA it was always going to be difficult. When we won the British MOD contract, which became the L115A3, we said, “We are going to win this and we are not going to let anyone take this contract.” We’re not going to let some overseas company come into the UK with this. It would look really bad for us. Remington took the same position with the PSR contract in the United States. If Remington had lost that job, it would have been bad for them, with all of their facilities and home grown political support they get. We’ve got 10 people, including myself, and 4,000 square feet in the U.S. When you compare that to Remington’s facilities, we’re small fry. We didn’t expect to win it but what I expected to get out of it was a new product, and that’s what we’ve got. Even before the results came out, we went into production with that and sold over a hundred of them on a special limited edition run of the PSR contract rifle kit. It gave us an opportunity to get the rifle into full production and today we have a complete range of AX rifles directly as a result of the PSR solicitation. There are many features in all of our rifles, including the AX50, which came about because of the PSR contract so it helped us change our product range.

SADJ: With the PSR contract, some of the companies were incorporating powered rails. What does AI think of that?

Dave: This is the trouble with modern weapons; everyone wants to look like Rambo. It makes them feel good when they are carrying this stuff but it doesn’t help the shooter and it doesn’t make the rifle shoot any better. Designs are being changed really considerably by individuals that think for instance a powered rail would be a legitimate thing to have but when you come down to it from a shooting point of view, in some cases it’s not practical at all. For example, I’ve been designing a new bipod and I’ve been told that customers would like the bipod to lock solid, but I would say it’s better to have a certain amount of movement. This would be more favorable on lose ground when you fire a shot, one side of the bipod sinks in the ground. If you have it locked you would have to reach forward and unlock the bipod and lock it again, but with a certain amount of tension. But not locked you can just twisted the gun back to position, unfortunately people are saying it has to be locked.

SADJ: How has the marketing approach changed in the company?

Tom: Back in the late 90s and early 2000s, the marketing approach was completely different than today; they would not have been sitting here, talking to gun writers. There was involvement with movies and TV dramas but not anywhere near the level we are doing today. It was the same with articles, magazines and advertising. The approach was that we make the best: people know that and they’ll just come to us. They didn’t promote themselves as the best sniper rifle in the world. Around the world, with military government contracts, there are contractual requirements, which include penalty clauses, and bonds, which the prior management would not enter into. Upfront payments were a part of doing business back then. The main competitor products were customized hunting rifles. Now, fast forward to today. If you didn’t put bond money up front, if you didn’t sign up for penalty clauses, and if you tried to get upfront money, you would not get any contracts. Those days have gone! If you look at the competition, there are a number of companies using the same concept of an aluminum platform and several of them have flat bottomed receivers. Most of the competitive rifles are designed for tactical use and none of them are customized hunting rifles. There is a lot more competition around today. Our approach is to be the leader, stay ahead of the competition and we make the best sniper rifle in the world. We are not going to be catching up; others will catch up with us. If we were still making only the AW and AE today we would be going downhill rapidly. We invested in facilities, people and products and that is why we are at the point we are today, where we have no qualms at all in saying we make the best sniper rifle in the world because we believe that.

SADJ: How has legal legislation changed the picture of civilian shooting in the UK since you began the company, in both the political and social aspects?

Dave: Politically it’s almost impossible for a company to get into firearms manufacturing today, in the UK, because of all the government red tape. Socially the sport is going away. One of my friends from my competition days recently stepped down from coaching the national team and when I asked him why, he said, “There’s no new people coming into shooting, all the old guys like us are dying out.” and he’s absolutely correct. When I was young and in my teens, I would go down to my rifle club and those old guys on the range would teach me the finer points of rifle shooting. Now that generation is dead and there are no rifle clubs that kids these days can go to because they’ve all been shut down after the government has made it almost impossible to continue operation due to the restrictions.

SADJ: What does the future hold for Accuracy International?

Dave: Old age. (Laughter ensues…)

Tom: Well due to the fact that we literally just changed our product line to the AX and AT, then the immediate future is making sure we can get the product as good as it can be. So for the near term future, which you can say is the next 5 years, that is our focus and right now we’re not planning on anything beyond that. We spent so much getting to this point and we’ve done enough to keep us growing for the short term. That’s where our focus is.

SADJ: Thank you for taking the time to speak with us today – a truly amazing story.

Acronyms:

AW- Began out of the Swedish trials and stands for Arctic Warfare, 3 lug action. Later made in .338 Lapua.

AE- Entry-level rifle for law enforcement agencies in 2001 as well as being an economically priced rifle.

AS- AS50, semi auto .50 caliber rifle.

AT- Improved AW. 6 lug action and quick release barrel with an AW action.

AX- PSR contract rifle. AX multi caliber, .308 NATO, .300 Win. Mag., .338 Lapua. AX 308 separate.

AICS- Accuracy International Chassis System, AT AICS, AX AICS, AW AICS. Aimed at the civilian market and upgrading existing law enforcement rifles either for the Remington 700 action or the Accuracy International actions.

L96- Original company production rifle designated L96 in British Army and nick named “The Green Meanie.” Later replaced by the .338 Lapua L115A3.

Today, unlike in the 1990s, the company is not in any sort of debt, and all the machinery in the factory is paid off in full. From a meager 2 CNC machines in the late 90s, one of which wasn’t even working, the company now boosts over 30 of them in addition to various other modern machine stations.

This machine is using electricity going through a wire and cutting the receiver to the correct specification shape. It is computer controlled and automatically cuts as many as 6 receivers in a single setting. The liquid inside the container is sterilized water.

Tom Irwin demonstrates features of the magazine well on an AX .308 chassis; particularly how a shooter or spotter can insert a magazine from the left without moving the rifle and maintaining the rifle on target.

Notice the modularity of all the external parts on the chassis. If any of these parts become worn down or broken, shooters can swap them out with new ones. Borrowing a concept from polymer handgun designs, the pistol grips can be swapped out for different size swells to accommodate different shooters.

Putting a .338 Lapua AX through its paces in the factory 100 meter range. The scope is a Schmidt & Bender, a world renowned scope for an equally remarkable rifle. Notice the amount of KeyMod slots on the frame.

Various bolt housing groups in line for further finishing and assembly. Another feature of the design was the short 60 degree bolt throw open, allowing more rapid bolt manipulation. This was especially evident during the test fire of the weapon system in the 100 meter range, the bolt being especially smooth during operation.

Top left, Caig and Walls’ third prototype rifle from 1981. Bottom left, a target rifle design from 1984. Top right, standard and original L96 sniper rifle. Notice the military iron sights and the transition from the gentle curves of the target rifles to the rigid lines of the military rifles. Middle right, Arctic Warfare cutaway. Notice on all three of these contract rifles, the different muzzle compensator design changes. Bottom right, German G22 .300 Win. Mag. Even in 1997, the need for Picatinny rails has already become apparent as is evidenced by this rifle’s scope mounting systems. Also notice the night vision optic in front of the scope. Because making optical mounts such as these was so difficult and cumbersome to pair up with the various other mounts on the market, Picatinny rails and KeyMod slots on the AX rifles did away with the headaches of the different configurations.

Area denial and protection has been a key factor in most combat missions from the beginning. For more than 50 years the product of choice for this mission has been the M18 Claymore mine and its derivatives. Extremely impactful at its onset, with 700 steel balls flying 1,200 meters per second, ground units were happy to have it in their arsenal. Over time though, especially as operations have focused more on precision engagement, our forces became very selective in its application. Though directional in theory, this is debatable. Ask any soldier where the nearest “safe zone” is when employing the system and they will tell you, “behind the closest hard object!” Slight upgrades have been made to the product since its inception like a plastic case and bi-lateral priming locations. Significant strides have been made in the past decade in regard to insensitive explosives and munitions, reliability of detonators, as well as other technology advances that have made it possible to develop a much more effective and safe product line. Enter the Multi-Purpose Infantry Munition System (MPIMS), a family of products developed and produced by OY Forcit AB of Hanko, Finland, that spans the full spectrum of applicable requirements.

Forcit Defense, Hanko, Finland

Forcit Defense is one of the forerunners in Insensitive Munitions (IM) technology, manufacturing IM defense products with its own Plastic Bonded Explosives (PBX) product family. It is part of OY FORCIT AB – a Finnish based company that has explosive expertise since 1893. Forcit Defense has been developing and manufacturing innovative defense systems for armed forces globally since the 1920s. Since the early 1980s Forcit Defense has been serving western defense forces as well as International defense product
manufacturers with world class IM PBX products. The product range covers a wide variety ranging from special forces/combat engineering charges to underwater systems.

Force on Force MILES/HITS Compatible Trainer

Multi-Purpose Infantry Munition System (MPIMS)

The family of MPIMS consists of a squad/platoon trainer, A MILES (Multiple Integrated Laser Engagement System) integrated Force on Force simulator, two less lethal systems, and two lethal Directed Fragmentation Charges (DFCs) that may contain either stainless steel ball bearings, tungsten ball bearings, or a combinations of both. The MPIMS takes the legacy system anti-personnel mine and transforms the idea into a system of munitions, exponentially increasing the soldier’s, sailor’s, marine’s or airman’s capability as well as increasing his safety and that of his unit and other friendly forces. The MPIMS family allows the operator to escalate the level of force needed at any given time on the battlefield. MPIMS has already proven itself in combat, being deployed to and used in Afghanistan, and has been selected by the NATO Industry Advisory Group (NIAG) as the “next generation defense system for area denial and protection.”

Squad and Platoon Trainer Multi-Purpose Infantry Munition (MPIM)

The SQD/PLT Trainer version of the MPIMS family meets the requirement for training and qualification on the system. The SQD/PLT trainer is a simple, low-cost training system that mimics the actual functioning of the MPIMS family, spanning from force on force trainer and less-lethal to full lethal versions. The trainer allows leaders and trainers to verify that soldiers are trained on the system, validate the correct employment and initiation of the system. Once the system is functioned correctly an audible and/or visual signal (depending on future maturation of the SQD/PLT trainer) is emitted, allowing the trainer to know that the soldier, sailor, marine or airman has employed the system correctly.

Mini-MPIM on spike mount

Force on Force Trainer (FOFT) Multi-Purpose Infantry Munition (MPIM)

Until now, the Army has been unable to simulate the M18A1 in Force on Force training situations. With the addition of the capability of the FOFT, all military units will be able to simulate the effects of a directed fragmentation charge (anti-personnel munition effects) during force on force training. The FOFT upon initiation, emits a Class I “eye-safe” laser, transmits weapon ID and simulates wounded in action (WIA) or killed in action (KIA) based on personnel inside the kill zone. The “lethal” footprint in the “kill-zone” is approximately 60 degrees and extends to approximately 300 feet. The FOFT uses the same MILES/HITs equipment already standard issue at the National Training Center (Ft. Irwin, CA) and Joint Readiness Training Center (Ft. Polk, LA) in the United States and at the Joint Multi-National Readiness Center in Hoenfels, Germany. When fired, the FOFT presents both audio and visual effects and there is an interface for pyrotechnic devices such as the Improvised Explosive Device Effects Simulator (IEDES) fielded by the Program Manager for Live Training Systems (LTS) that is currently available and used at the Training Centers and some home stations locations. The FOFT uses a rechargeable 3.6 Li-Io battery and provides a minimum 200 hours of functionality. The FOFT has the capability of being sighted directionally to provide simulation fragmentation lethality over a specific area of 0 to 100 meters and a spread angle of 60 degrees. The simulator can adjust the range coverage based on varying vertical sighting by the operator on emplacement. The MPIMS FOFT comes with a realistic firing device and is manually detonated. Soldiers can now train as they fight using the FOFT to simulate ground combat utilizing an anti-personnel munition.

Less-Lethal / Non-Lethal Multi-Purpose Infantry Munition (MPIM)

The Less-Lethal / Non-Lethal (LL/NL) variant is the variant where the most growth potential exists in the MPIMS family. The vision is to use the FOFT body and develop a “plug and play” system, where by modules containing kinetic and non-kinetic payloads that can be used to engage threats at different ranges and with graduated or “scalable” effects. The payloads that are envisioned in the non-lethal realm are forms of lights or “dazzlers” at varying strengths, spot lights, sirens, and loud speakers with pre-recorded messages based on the threat level. The payloads envisioned for the Less-lethal MPIMs are sting balls and flash bangs. It is important to note that the LL/NL is the least developed munition in the MPIMs family, but has the greatest area for growth. The objective of the LL/NL family is to develop the “plug and play” system that will be able to accept lethal, non-lethal, and less lethal modules, depending on the threat identified in the area of operations.

Impact zone for Mini-MPIM

Directed Fragmentation Charge (DFC) Multi-Purpose Infantry Munition (MPIM)

The Directed Fragmentation Charge MPIMS (anti-personnel configuration) allows the operator the capability to engage more efficiently and with a larger area than any present legacy devices. DFC can be used as part of base camp protection with other MPIMS applications (less-lethal and anti-vehicular configurations) to provide the response required by the force to meet threat escalation. The DFC (anti-vehicular) application uses tungsten ball bearings and penetrates up to 4 millimeters of Rolled Homogeneous Armor (RHA) at 80 Meters at P/100 (penetrates every time at 80 Meters). The DFC’s lethal zone is over twice as large as the M18A1 Claymore. The DFC can be used in ambush, static defense, base camp force protection, force multiplier and area access control scenarios. It can be employed offensively and/or defensively. The DFC MPIM is a fully
mature product, combat proven in Afghanistan by NATO forces, using MPIMs under Directed Fragmentation Charge (DFC) nomenclature. The DFC has been in full rat production since 2009. The DFC is at a TRL 9 and is a COTs product. A single DFC has 924 stainless steel pellets, which have an initial velocity of over 2,700 m/s in detonation. The DFC has been optimized for a 50 meter wide – 2 meter high “impact zone” at a distance of 50 meters based on the distribution pattern that ensures 5-7 “hits” per square meter. DFC can be effectively used against non-armored or light-armored vehicles up to 50 meters, and personnel beyond 100 meters. The defined fragmentation pattern greatly increases operator safety as no fragments are found left or right of the pattern. It could be called a “precision” fragmentation charge due to this attribute and could safely enable friendly force movement forward of the device, something that does not exist presently. In addition, there are no fragments that “fly” rearward from the device due to the booster to main charge firing train, which has been captured in numerous arena tests. The repeatable distribution pattern significantly reduces collateral damage.

Miniature Multi-Purpose Infantry Munition (M-MIPM)

M-MPIM is a ~40% scaled variant of the original Directed Fragmentation Charge (DFC) and is based on a design developed for a special operations requirement, but has application for all ground forces, including mounted troops. It is extremely light, and highly effective. It can be used in hit-and-run, ambush, base camp protection, force multiplier, and area access control scenarios. It can be employed offensively and/or defensively. It can be combined with other M-MPIMs to expand the coverage area or turned on its side for narrower coverage in urban scenarios. It is truly a versatile weapon that can be incorporated into existing perimeter defense systems such as the XM-7 Spider anti-personnel networked munitions system. There is no other munition that equals the performance of the Mini MPIM. In detonation, M-MPIM sends out 315 spherical steel fragments with a muzzle velocity of 2,300 meters per second in a repeatable fragmentation pattern. The M-MPIM has been optimized for a 20 meter wide – 2 meter high “impact zone” at a distance of 30 meters based on the distribution pattern that ensures 5-7 “hits” per square meter. The steel or tungsten projectiles remain effective to more than 100 meters against a man target. As with the DFC, this defined fragmentation pattern greatly increases operator safety and operational effectiveness. All lethal MPIMS have a rearward safety zone of 7m, based on concussive effects. This in itself is a dramatic change compared to the legacy system. An excerpt from the Army Field Manual (FM 23-23) that applies to the M18A1 states: “Danger Area of Backblast and Secondary Missiles. Within an area of 16 meters to the rear and sides of the mine, backblast can cause injury by concussion (ruptured eardrums) and create a secondary missile hazard. Friendly troops are prohibited to the rear and sides of the mine within a radius of 16 meters. The minimum safe operating distance from the mine is 16 meters. At this distance, and regardless of how the mine is employed, the operator should be in a foxhole, behind cover, or lying prone in a depression. The operator and all friendly troops within 100 meters of the mine must take cover to prevent being injured by flying secondary objects such as sticks, stones, and pebbles.”

Full Scale MPIM Directed Fragmentation Charge

Warfare Experiment (AEWE) Spiral J Live Fire where soldiers and marines present witnessed the effects from an “open” (unobstructed) distance “significantly less” than they would for the legacy device. The M-MPIM’s repeatable fragmentation pattern significantly reduces the possibility of collateral damage. Using the existing aiming device on the device proved highly effective during the AEWE demonstrations and there are discussions ongoing about incorporating a miniature laser aiming device that shows the impact zone. The Mini MPIM was granted a “Safety Release” (SR) by the Army Test and Evaluation Command for the AEWE live fire event. All lethal variants of the MPIM are the only Insensitive Munition (IM) compliant fragmentation charges available today. The M-MPIM is a basic device that stands ready to incorporate whatever accessories the war-fighter should desire, from stands to mounts to male-female attachment points for linking multiple devices together. A comparison of the Mini-MPIM vs the legacy system is below.

Conclusion

The Multi-Purpose Infantry Munition System family gives the United States Military (and other foreign militaries) the capability to train and engage with an escalation of force needed at a specific time, in both offensive and defensive scenarios. The SQD/PLT trainer provides a realistic training device that replicates the MPIMs in every way. The MPIMS Force on Force Trainer (FOFT) provides a force on force training capability that until today, has not existed in the Military Training Centers. The Less Lethal and Non- Lethal MPIMs versions will provide a scalable, selectable, “plug and play” capability that can be tailored based on war-fighter requirements. Finally, the lethal versions provide a vast array of options, from large DFC with Tungsten or stainless steel ball bearings, to the Mini MPIM, that provide state of the art technology and unprecedented performance.

Mini-MPIM showing size relative to hand.

But the real Australia is far from the stereotyped image. There are modern cities here as well as old; famous cities like Sydney, with its Opera house and Melbourne, Darwin, Perth, and the new capital Canberra. And then there is Brisbane.

Between Sept 22 and 25, Land Forces 2014 was held at Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre. It is considered the leading land defense forum for Australia, Asia, and the Pacific, with over two hundred vendors throughout its hall. Though not as large as IWA, Eurosatory, or MSPO, it is still quite impressive. Among the most prominent vendors there were Boeing, H&K, and General Dynamics. Mercedes-Benz was present with some new armored vehicles for the armed forces. Even the government of Queensland had a large booth, containing small companies from that state.

H&K 5.56x45mm rifles (top to bottom): HK416 rifle with 40x46mm underbarrel grenade module; HK416A5 with 11-inch barrel; HK416A5 with 14.5-inch barrel and Flat Dark Earth color; HK416A5 with 11-inch barrel and suppressor.

The show had no shortage of vehicles, both miniatures and real life. Most were armored personnel carriers and large trucks to carry heavy loads. At the entrance was a 155mm Lightweight Howitzer as well as a few other vehicles on loan from the Australian armed forces. Both Boeing and General Dynamics had their own infantry personnel carriers. There were also lesser unknown companies like Supacat with their HMT 600 and ATMP, and Polaris with their Sportsman 4-wheelers.

If children were allowed into the hall, it would be torture for them. There was no end of the miniature vehicles, be they trucks, ships, or fighter jets. Many of these were impressively done models. Lockheed Martin had the most of these on display, showing off their newest designs, including miniatures of the HELLFIRE Missile System and the M270A1 (Multiple Launch Rocket System). Also, South Australia the Defense State had miniature displays of complexes they were planning on building. This is an effective method of showing a company’s products without having the expense of shipping the full size models of everything in their line.

The remote control (CROW system) mount was prominently on display at this show, mostly with the M2HB .50 caliber machine gun. One could easily control this from inside a vehicle using a “joystick,” firing at enemy combatants from relative safety. The booths these were seen at the most were Kongsberg and Elbit Systems of Australia. Rheinmetall, however, upped the ante and used an H&K GMG 40mm Grenade launcher. Some of these were on the vehicles in the hall as well, like the light infantry vehicles.

As for firearms, there was plenty to see. H&K had a large display with its latest collection of weapons, as well as their own GMG 40mm Grenade Machine Gun. Colt, Barrett, SIG Sauer, and Beretta were present as well, all showing their newest products, including Barrett’s
award winning MRAD.

Part of Defence Australia display.

Other vendors showcased body armor, ammo, knives, mortars, targets, and drones as well as a missile from Diehl Defense. One thing that stood out was from Australian Target Systems. They had a device that held four targets. Each target had on one side a soldier minding his own business, while the other side had a soldier holding a gun in front of them, aimed at the shooter. At random, the targets turned back and forth between sides, showing the shooter when to shoot and when not to shoot.

The Demo Disarming IED Robot at this show was impressive. These have been quite useful on the battlefield from helping deactivate bombs to firing on enemy combatants with whatever weapon is attached to it.

The show was not open to the public. Most of the visitors were military personal and other defense contractors, as well as members of the press. A few units from the Australia armed forces were allowed in. The food in the hall is really just hot dogs and burgers. If you prefer something else, the Exhibition Centre is not far from some great restaurants near the Brisbane River. Indian, Chinese, Thai, Turkish, Italian, and even Eastern European cuisines can be found within walking distance from the show.

As for Brisbane itself, it is a very enjoyable and vibrant city to visit. It is the capital of the state of Queensland and its largest city. It has a wonderful history, great beaches and some good museums. The best, in this writer’s opinion, is one a little ways down the river from the show called the Maritime Museum, with its main attraction being the HMAS Diamantina, a frigate from 1946. Across the Brisbane River is a large shopping area called Queen Street Mall with smaller shopping centers in the surrounding area. There is plenty to buy there and no shortage of restaurants, including the Australian brand of Burger King known there as Hungry Jack’s. As for a suggestion on a good place to eat, the Black Hide Steakhouse is a must.

As for what is outside of Brisbane, there isn’t much. It’s too far from the outback, as well as the southern cities of Sydney and Melbourne. There is a large zoo not far away, as well as the local rainforests. Also not far away is a city called the Gold Coast, Australia’s sixth and fastest growing city. One can find the tours to these places by just walking down the street and you will find a few tourist agencies easily. And for Scuba divers, the Great Barrier Reef is unsurpassed.

The people of Brisbane are friendly and quite helpful. They speak English so if you are visiting from the United States or another English speaking country you should be alright. If not, try and learn a few words, just in case – Aussie English can be a bit strange sometimes. Brisbane is a safe city with few problems and low crime and if you are in Queensland, Australia, be sure to pay this city a visit.

M777A2 Lightweight 155mm Howitzer. It is equipped with a GPS and digital fire control system. It can be towed or transported by large rotary or fixed wing aircraft. 8 to 10 men are required to crew this weapon. It weighs 4,445 kg, has a 26-42 km range and can fire 4 rounds per minute for 2 minutes or 2 rounds per minute sustained fire.

The Australian Land Forces provided a large display of armored vehicles.

The Australian Land Forces provided a large display of armored vehicles.

The Australian Land Forces provided a large display of armored vehicles.

Ruag produces some of the best sniper and accurate ammunition in the world. They attended Land Forces 2014 and showed their new .338 Lapua Magnum sniper round.

Saab Bofors from Sweden is heavily involved in anti-tank systems, and their M3 Carl Gustav 84mm launcher is well known and highly respected. The full line of munitions is seen on the floor in front of the M3.

NAMMO-Talley presented their shoulder fired rocket systems, with a variety of the M72 series that has been modernized.

Top to bottom: HK G28E 7.62x51mm with 20-inch barrel; HK417A2 7.62x51mm with 16.5-inch barrel and 40x46mm underbarrel grenade Launcher; HK MG4E belt fed 5.56x45mm light machine gun; and HK MG5 belt fed 7.62x51mm machine gun.

Top to bottom: HK G36C 5.56x45mm; HK169 40x46mm grenade module with standalone stock; HK MP5 9x19mm submachine gun; HK MP7A2 4.6x30mm Personal Defense Weapon; HK MP7A1 in Simunitions blue to signify training only with Simunitions ammunition.

Eurocopter’s Tiger Attack Helicopter as used by the Australian Army was a frequent focus of the display and aero review. Here it is shown armed with seven shot Hydra-70 (2.75 inch) rocket pods, what appear to be two Hellfire missiles on the inboard, and a Giat 30 cannon in the chin turret- in 30x113mm.

For reasons never made clear, Slavin took his dream to Toronto, Canada, a city directly across Lake Ontario from Buffalo, New York. Samuel J. Zacks, a Toronto financier, art collector and Zionist, helped organize the Toronto support, and enlisted the help of Norman Grant. Grant had been the General Manager of Toronto’s York Arsenals during the war. Under his supervision, millions of bullets and shells were dispatched toward the enemy. The only public trace of the company during the war was the occasional newspaper mention of the intrepid girls’ soccer team. York Arsenals vanished at the war’s end, cloaked in secrecy in operation and forgotten as soon as the doors closed. A small postwar booklet picturing the plant’s products and the corporate directors is sole testimony along with a fragment of the plant that serves as a grocery store today.

Grant also wondered why Slavin chose Toronto and suspected it was the lower wages of machinists. Keeping the project away from prying eyes probably played a role, but, Slavin was also an unapologetic and vocally self-styled “stereotypical Jew,” begrudging the cost of every coffee billed to his homeland. When Slavin had sent Alper around New York on various missions, he specified circuitous routes on subway and bus; very seldom a cab. Alper never doubted the careful routing was for security. He learned much later that the long routes, the crowds and the confusing transfers were actually to save a few pennies.

Satisfied Toronto was the place, Slavin called for Alper and Ekdahl to join him. Local connections found them space. Working over a luxury car showroom on Bay Street, their separate entrance and the constant noise of cars and car repairs was a perfect cover. Industrial Research Labs could set up as soon the landlord saw their references. Once again, Levine stepped in to co-sign the lease.

Where the Dror stampings were made. (Carl E. Ekdahl)

Throughout the war years, for miles around York Arsenals, sub-contractors turned and formed parts for bombs and shells. The most highly skilled workers sculpted precision tools. Most now thrived in peacetime. Grant knew them all. Ekdahl and Slavin pored over the gun’s design to identify what would be changed. Grant recruited Max Brown and they began ordering the custom tools for the 1,500 steps to make The Gun. They divided the work between the machine shops so no outsider could see the whole picture. Parts that couldn’t be explained away had to be made over the showroom. As the orders came in, parts were made and assembled.

The Gun had to be ready to build on arrival; there could be no experiments in Palestine. Slavin determined to build six prototypes with all the tools made, proven, labeled and coded for shipping.

There were a few hitches. Everything outside the tool room seemed to need community approval and local businessmen, Rabbis and others hovered around the clandestine work. Toronto’s Jewish community, terribly curious, was anxious to help the cause, but proudly avoided ‘shop talk’ at lunches and suppers with the mysterious strangers. All the attention came to a head one winter night when police stopped a truck on the highway and looked in the back.

The result was the next day’s news – and a hint of the storm to follow months later at the border – the truck carried surplus Bren gun parts. There was nothing illegal in this, but the community leaders threatened to pull the plug on IRL. The British were practically at war with the Jews in Palestine at the time and the Toronto leaders feared the disapproval of the Canadian government. In a loud meeting with Slavin, a handgun supposedly appeared and the nervous members acquired a new, quiet, resolve. The feared Canadian disapproval never materialized, but the work was only allowed to go on if Slavin stayed out of sight.

Several months into the work, Ekdahl received a secret offer. Egypt offered him $100,000 to do for them what he was doing for the Jews. Being the honest man he was, Ekdahl discussed the offer with Slavin. Being the business-like man he was, Slavin admitted it was a good offer. Carl talked it over with Hilda and turned it down.

In December, 1946, two months before the first gun was completed, Slavin was called back to Palestine. Ekdahl originally thought the project would take six months. With the new restrictions and Slavin’s absence it took a year.

Home in Palestine, Slavin took stock of the small arms in hand. Many of the Haganah guns were salvaged by Bedouins from the abandoned World War Two battlefields of the North African desert. The demand for guns had sent prices soaring for even battered relics.

The British Army had helped, albeit unofficially. With ridiculous frequency, British soldiers reported truckloads of ammunition and supplies bloodlessly ambushed or mysteriously stolen. Rifles and machine guns were lost by the appalling carelessness of patrols. In one case, a guard failed to notice a gang of strangers empty his unit’s entire armory. The man in charge of such matters later said Jewish agents spent over a quarter million dollars assisting various British friends.

‘Maxie’ Brown holds a Dror at the factory. This may be one of the smuggled prototypes. (Carl E. Ekdahl)

There were some home-made guns of various quality. Ta’as even produced artillery as well as Sten guns. The Lehi, one of the several armed Jewish bands, made over 600 highly serviceable copies of the Sten. An underground (literally) plant churned out 9mm ammunition. The lack of raw material was partly overcome by a large purchase of lip-stick tubes. These were forged into casings.

Finally, a deal was struck in Czechoslovakia by Ehud Avriel, another of Ben Gurion’s gun-getters, to import thousands of small arms and millions of rounds of ammunition. The deal thankfully took the pressure off the immediate situation, because the news reaching Slavin from Toronto was bad.

Max Brown had been released on bail, which was small comfort. After all the months and work and worry and money, The Gun was in mortal danger. Parts had been seized, Industrial Research Labs raided, Grant arrested and the tools, drawings and remaining parts seized.

And that, Slavin feared, might be merely the start. If the police took a closer look, they’d see Harry Levine had signed the IRL lease in Toronto. If they looked closer at him, they’d see he also signed for the Machinery Processing and Converting Co. in New York. If the two were put together, the entire arms smuggling effort would be revealed. U.S. Customs only had to check their files and they could hand the British a list of ‘machinery’ shipments from MPC, and, their destinations in Palestine. The raids that would follow in Palestine could uncover dozens of Jewish underground arms factories and storage sites.

A very short time later, in Washington, DC, two anxious leaders of the American Jewish community sat down with FBI Director, J. Edgar Hoover. Hoover listened patiently as the men explained the devastating consequences of further investigation into the border incident. Hoover then asked them if the United States were being imperiled in any way. Satisfied with their ‘no,’ Hoover nodded and the meeting ended.

So goes the story. In all likelihood the massive Jewish effort to arm was already well known to Hoover. Ekdahl family lore tells of a railway car meeting, where government agents not only approved of Ekdahl’s work, but, came close to ordering it.

Among Carl Ekdahl’s mementos from his time in Israel is this inscribed desk set. (David Nordin)

The captured gun parts were portrayed as the work of a few enthusiastic Canadians, impressive and clever, but nonetheless, minor. There was back-patting in court as the contrite Brown belatedly confessed his sins. A suspended sentence followed, and the entire issue deflated with a boys-will-be-boys shrug.

After the Toronto workshop and its contents were restored, to the utter disbelief of their owners, the clandestine work went on to package and ship, not merely a handful of guns, but the tools needed to turn out enough guns to arm a nation. And still, The Gun didn’t even have a name.

Finally, the finished guns, parts and tools were packed onto a private yacht. They sailed across Lake Ontario and into the U.S. The passengers sipped cocktails and tipped their glasses in friendly greetings to Customs. The planned test firing had to be skipped and the materials went straight to Schalit in New York for shipment to Palestine. According to the participants, 75,000 carefully jumbled pieces left, all so meticulously recorded, it was said, that not a single part was misplaced.

Magazine housing on the first model Dror. (Author)

But, after all the delays, it was too late. On November 29, 1947, the United Nations voted the State of Israel into existence, to take effect the 15th of May, 1948. If there was to be an Israel a week later, the fighters needed weapons and ammunition today. Manufacture of The Gun would need a real factory with concrete floors and high-voltage. At the time, a major Ta’as factory was akin to an underground car garage. Slavin had to focus on current production. The Gun had to wait.

In Palestine, the British Army pre-empted the date for Independence and began their pull-out a day early, abandoning police stations and installations throughout Palestine and marching swiftly to the coastal ports for evacuation. To the North, the East and the South, Arab armies closed in. Many Palestinian Arabs fled, encouraged by the surrounding Arab countries. Knowing there was no retreat and no surrender, Israel struck back. The Arab armies were stopped, battered, demoralized and defeated. The Palestinians who fled found themselves unwelcome. Their descendants remain refugees and fighting continues today.

The Gun finally saw daylight after the 1948 war. More than most nations, Israel needed to develop a self-sufficient arms industry. Israel was surrounded by enemies who would cut off resupply in war, and, they feared, their friends were not the most reliable either. Considerable investment in engineering, sweat, risk and expense had been put into The Gun. Men like Ben Gurion himself wanted to see the project bloom.

Inside the notebook, Israel thanks Carl Ekdahl. (David Nordin)

Schalit’s packing crates were opened in a Ta’as factory in Shemen, an industrial district in Haifa. The Gun would be the first post-war product of Ta’as. Yisrael Galili, later to co-design the Galil rifle named after him, was in charge of production. Galili soon found that the careful organizing of parts and tools was more wishful thinking than reality. In fact, he said years later, it was all a mess.

Max Brown and Carl Ekdahl arrived in Israel in 1948. The Gun at last began production. A grateful Israel sent them home with their thanks for all they had done. By now, The Gun had a name; the Dror. Literally translated, Dror means Freedom.

The first guns made on the Toronto tooling are close copies of the Johnson Model 1944, but in .303. Some less critical parts are made crudely, and the finish is hard to pin down, but it is a well machined and crafted gun where it counts. The combination folding monopod fore-end of the M1944 is replaced with stamped, folding, bipod legs.

The problem is, the gun is still a pig to use. It is all points and edges, hard to hold and hard to love. The loaded mag is quite noticeable as a visual distraction and an off-balancing weight. The folded bipod becomes the forward grip, but the legs are a lousy hold, too widely spaced with too little surface. When fired, the Dror is a sharply loud and busy gun: It kicks with great zeal and the straight in-line design seems influential mostly in theory.

One report said less than 400 first model Drors were made, another says between 800 and 1,000 before production was halted. Two reasons for the halt are given. The first cites a number of weaknesses in the design, the other, and deciding factor, recognizes the large amount of 8mm ammunition acquired from Czechoslovakia. The design team had just gotten the .303 working well when the unwelcome order to change caliber came through.

Outside the Dror Shemen factory. (Carl E. Ekdahl) Below: Looking through the gate into the Shemen Dror factory yard. (Carl E. Ekdahl)

The Dror underwent a thorough redesign. Whether the second version was an improvement or not it was, nevertheless, different. The switch to 8mm made sense for logistics alone, but, in fact 8mm is far better suited to automatic weapons than .303. The other major changes are still argued about. The barrel, left exposed by Johnson for cooling and balance, was now wrapped in a full-length barrel jacket for protection. The bipod was heftier and mounted near the muzzle. A muzzle booster was added to pump up the muscle and improve reliability. The feed system, that singular feature of the Johnsons with the lips built into the gun, was dumped in favor of the BAR magazine, possibly from an 8mm FN BAR Model D; and that was now mounted under the gun. The awkward job of replacing the side mounted magazine was now an awkward job of replacing a bottom mounted one with not enough space under the gun to do it. The resulting gun was even less handy, and, the 8mm also kicked like a mule.

Several tests pitted the .303 and the 8mm versions against the German MG 34 and the British Bren. The guns were compared on accuracy, usability, durability and most importantly, reliability.

The earliest test has the singular positive comment that the Dror was the most accurate in the single-shot mode. In automatic fire, the Dror kicked and sprayed more than the competition, throwing groups across 30 inches and more at 200 yards while the Bren and the MG34 did half that.

The Drors lacked interchangeability of magazines and had many hand-fitted parts. The familiar complaint of the Johnson’s tricky stripping and the potential loss of critical small parts came up. The gun didn’t do as well as the Bren or the MG 34 when it came to withstanding immersion in sea water or exposure to dust and sand. The troops said it was difficult and uncomfortable to carry and not much fun to shoot.

Mostly, though, it was simply a gun that missed its time. The Dror’s strongest point was to be there when there was nothing else, but, the War of Independence was over before the gun came to be. The handiness and versatility that made it ideal for the guerilla and the settler are never mentioned in the post-war tests.

Nonetheless, the Dror was fully explored. Even a rifle version was apparently produced in minute numbers. Production wrapped up with the completion of 1,000 of the second model guns. These were issued to training units and the Navy, where it was hoped they’d never be called on. Even this was done reluctantly. None saw combat.

The test reports slammed the gun and proclaimed short-recoil operation inherently less reliable than gas operation. The government was advised all future development should be of gas powered weapons. The decision to begin full production of the unproven Dror was roasted as irresponsible. Of course, with names like David Ben Gurion and Haim Slavin behind the project, it is hard to imagine how anyone could have stopped it.

Looking through the gate into the Shemen Dror factory yard. (Carl E. Ekdahl)

In the U.S., Johnson continued development of his rifle and LMG after the war, melding them into sleek and evolved models that unfortunately met little commercial success. There is no indication Johnson knew about the Dror. Johnson Automatics filed for bankruptcy in 1949. The auction of equipment took place in March the same year. Some machinery and tooling may have made its way to Israel to supplement the Toronto contribution. Johnson moved on to development work on several other military projects.

The Johnson guns might have been still-born were it not for Holland’s all-important order. A generation later, a Dutch firm would produce the AR-10, which used the multi-lug locking system from the Johnson. Johnson himself helped develop the AR-10. Without the AR-10, the AR-15, the M16, and the M4 family still in use, would not have evolved. Considering this, Holland and Johnson had a remarkable influence on American weapons.

The existence of the Dror was a secret until well into the 1950s, and by then, a mild embarrassment. By the time the Dror became public, the lawyers were baffled. If the ownership of the patents was not muddied by bankruptcy, there was the question of who to sue: Israel didn’t exist when the Dror was hatched. Considering the failure of the gun and the fact production was cancelled, it isn’t surprising no legal action is recorded.

Maybe the first picture to escape the Dror factory; before any public mention of the Dror. (Carl E. Ekdahl)

Epilogue

In 1950, the Dutch Johnsons were deployed in the Philippines against the Hukbalahap Rebellion and by the Philippine Expeditionary Forces to Korea.

Hilda Ekdahl caught tuberculosis tending a sick relative and died tragically in 1949. Sadly missing her, Carl Ekdahl followed in 1952; but, according to his daughter, C. Elise, he died a man ‘happy with his legacy.’ A hundred years after he arrived in America, Carl’s descendants span America from coast to coast and north to south. He is remembered in Israel.

Melvin Johnson Jr. died in 1965, still working, of a heart attack. His memory and achievements are preserved by the Johnson family and known to millions.

Norman Grant, credited with running the Toronto operation, moved easily into manufacturing lighting.

Haim Slavin retired from Ta’as and kept on engineering. He developed some of the pre-fab concrete housing techniques seen throughout Israel today.

Yisrael Galili became known as the ‘Father of the Rifle’ in reference to the Galil rifle designed by himself and Yaacov Lior. He died in 1995.

Max Brown went to Palestine to serve in the War of Independence. He worked for Ta’as, likely with Ekdahl, then returned to Toronto and founded a chain of appliance stores. He passed away in 2013 in Miami. He is buried in Israel.

Between 1965 and 1969, Leonard Slater researched and wrote The Pledge recording the details about the development of the Dror and the broader effort to arm Israel prior to the 1948 war. Slater worked with NBC, Time and Newsweek, to name just a few. He died at 84 in 2005 at his home in Mission Hills, California.

Bruce N. Canfield, with Robert L. Lamoreaux and Edward R. Johnson, published Johnson’s Rifles and Machine Guns through Andrew Mowbray Publishers in 2002, illuminating the long untold Johnson story. Canfield, a premier authority on American small arms, continues to write.

However the story ended, the Dror is an incredible achievement by a small dedicated band led by Haim Slavin and Carl Ekdahl. Drors still exist in museums and the hands of collectors in Canada where the few released were sold as ‘Converted Automatics’ in the mid-1980s. Others were broken down for parts.

As a footnote, I dropped the butt of my .303 version on my foot, painfully blackening a toenail. In recorded history, this may have been the most significant wound inflicted by the Dror.

Melvin Johnson Jr. graciously thanks Carl Ekdahl. (Courtesy of John Ekdahl)

(Acknowledgement and thanks are due to Leonard Slater, author of The Pledge, Larry Collins and Dominque Lapierre, authors of O Jerusalem and to Bruce N. Canfield, author of Johnson’s Rifles and Machine Guns with Robert L. Lamoreaux and Edward R. Johnson, (Andrew Mowbray Publishers). A special thanks to Carl Ekdahl’s descendants, John Ekdahl, David Nordin and Kirsten O’Brien for their guidance, information and photos of their Grandfather, to Richard Collins for providing the 2nd model Dror, Charles Taylor of Movie Armaments Group in Toronto, Canada for use of the facilities, Graham Robertson for his photo, and G. N. Dentay, Paul Wassill and R Blake Stevens, Collector Grade Publications, for their invaluable editorial input.)

“We have to understand that it is called “international” terrorism, however, we as Special Forces, special operations units all over the world are not yet international. The bad guys always work together, have always been coordinating, and have always been international. The good guys never have been. Progress has been made in intelligence–sharing, thus, we have to work together in order to defeat the bad guys’ will. Soldiers know better than anybody whether their training is good or not. Soldiers will always know if the instructor coming in their country is showing him 100 percent of what that person knows, or just showing him a bit. Our philosophy in Jordan is to share everything we have with our brothers and counterparts around the Middle East and beyond. At the end of the day if your partners are strong, you are strong.” – King Abdullah II Bin Al-Hussein of Jordan

Brigadier General Aref Alzaben, the General Director King Abdullah II Special Operations Training Center (KASOTC), welcomed the teams and their support groups to the 6th Annual Warrior Competition at KASOTC and began a five day competition that all would remember in a spirit of brotherhood and camaraderie. SADJ has attended several of the competitions and watched them get better every year. This year, there were 38 teams from 18 countries. KASOTC has always been a special project of the King – he’s a special operations trained fighter himself. From all accounts, he wasn’t cut any slack in any of that training or operations, and won’t allow it for any of the Jordanian forces.

The preferred rifle for most teams was an M4 variant in 5.56x45mm with a variety of optics. Some of the teams preparing for the Precision Rifle course were Chinese, U.S., Jordanian, Palestinian, and Kuwaiti. One member would switch to a sniper rifle for some of the long runs.

KASOTC is one of the most advanced training facilities in the world, and many countries send their special operations groups for training there. This author has been involved at various times with their training and is always impressed with the commitment of the staff and support.

The Warrior Competition is also one of the King’s special interests. He attends and reviews the teams, and watches some of the competitions with great interest. It’s easy to envision this competition growing in size and stature in the community.

“If you’re that good, why aren’t you here?”

One afternoon after the competition while we relaxed at the cantina and pro shop, we watched the Malaysian team run around the football field (soccer to Americans) with their team members on their backs. Five times, then they switched so the man on the bottom was being carried, and five more trips around. Then, calisthenics… and more running. The Snow Leopards were doing similar workouts. This was all after a hard day of competition. Overheard on a cell phone conversation to one of the guys back home, “Yeah, well if you’re that good, why aren’t you here?” We all had a chuckle over that, because it was obvious someone back across the pond was waxing poetic about how strong a competitor they were, and just got schooled. They need to watch those exhausted Malaysian teams cowboy up and put the hammer down…

One of the most inspiring things about this competition is the spirit that is shared by the teams that are there. It’s not unusual to see an exhausted team running in to a new competition and see the other teams from countries cheering them on –even though that team might be from a country that has a negative relationship to the others. It’s all about the Warrior. These competitors push themselves to the absolute limits at all times. It’s evident on their faces.

The opening ceremony is on the parade grounds. The airplane used to train for hostage rescue and assault is in the background.

Shooting skills are a heavy part of the scoring, from handgun to carbine, from rifle to machine gun. As most soldiers know, you’ve got to be in top shape to get to where you can use that weapon, and the competitions are set up to challenge all of a soldier’s skills.

We look forward to attending each year, and hope to bring more coverage of a special “Weapons Master” event that has been discussed. It should be noted here that there are vendors and sponsors at the competition. The tables are set up outdoors under cover by the Pro shop, and while it’s not a “Show” there are certainly opportunities to meet with the end users who are competing from many countries. Revision and many others are regulars.

Competitions at the Warrior Competition 2014

1- Last Easy Day

2- Carbine Candy

3- Trail of Tears

4- Urban Assault

5- Commando Selection

6- 3-Gun Gauntlet

7- Shock-n-Awe

8- Molan Labe

9- High Angle Drive By

10- King’s Challenge

11- Top Gun

Most competitors in the Precision Rifle competition used the M4 carbine, many of the Colt manufactured as in this case. Sighting was simple and fast, with a variety of tactical optics used. Precision Rifle required a 1/4 kilometer run uphill, engaging targets at 300 meters, clear the weapons, then run downhill for the under-100 meter target range with a variety of engagement ranges.

After finishing at the 300 meter Precision Rifle range, competitors have to run downhill to the 100 meter range and engage targets.

It’s a grueling course, with the High Angle tower waiting at the other end.

Members of the PLA special operations team relax.

Kuwait team prepares for the 300 meter precision rifle course.

Jordanian team prepares for the carbine course.

Earlier in 2014, Small Arms Defense Journal attended a large-scale bilateral military exercise in South Korea. Exercise Ssang Yong (which translates as ‘Double Dragon’) involved some 14,000 personnel from the Republic of Korea (ROK) and the United States. During the series of military drills, we took the opportunity to look more closely at weapons used by the ROK Marine Corps (ROKMC). As to be expected, the small arms they employ are mostly those in common with the ROK Army as well. Regardless, the exercise provided us an opportune chance to look at equipment of the largest Marine Corps in the Asian region.

The ROKMC is not a branch of the ROK Navy, for it is a distinct service of the country’s armed forces. Its origins date to just prior to the Korean War (1950-53), when a Marine Corps consisting of just 380 men was established on 15 April 1949. Its first equipment was mostly leftover weapons from the Imperial Japanese Army, and soon the country was plunged into wartime chaos. One of the corps’ memorable moments was the Battle of Incheon, where 75,000 American and South Korean troops landed west of Seoul to send the North Koreans into retreat during the Korean War. Later, the ROKMC dispatched a brigade to South Vietnam during the Vietnam War.

View of the 5.56mm K1A submachine gun from the left-hand side. From observation of ROKMC units on exercise, the K1A is very widely used by infantry Marines.

One might ask why South Korea needs an amphibious force, especially since the country’s military is geared almost totally to a conflagration with the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK), whose military looms threateningly across the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ). In fact, South Korea is a peninsula nation surrounded by sea on three sides and with a number of offshore islands. Thus, the possession of a Marine Corps makes a lot of sense.

Marines are charged with conducting landing operations in conjunction with the ROK Navy, as well as conventional ground warfare, special warfare and facility protection. Indeed, the country must guard against DPRK intrusions that might include Special Forces infiltrating by small craft or mini-submarine. Today the ROKMC poses a behind-the-lines threat to any DPRK act of aggression, since it could make an amphibious lodgement on either the west or east coast of North Korea. To guard the maritime approaches to the capital Seoul and nearby port of Incheon, Marines are also deployed on five islands to the west of the South Korean mainland, including Yeonpyeong Island that was shelled in 2010.

The Marine Corps Command has an estimated 27,000 personnel. Of these, many are conscripts doing 24 months of compulsory military service. The corps comprises two divisions (1st and 2nd Marine Divisions), one brigade (6th Marine Brigade located in the northwest islands), and the Yeonpyeong unit. South Korean marines are acknowledged as being among the best there are, and even their U.S. counterparts speak glowingly of them as being “very tough.”

After this brief introduction to the ROKMC, let us turn our attention to the service’s small arms. The following is not designed as an exclusive list, but it does highlight the weapons one would typically expect to see within the Republic of Korea Marine Corps. These small arms are almost exclusively manufactured in South Korea by S&T Motiv, a company belonging to the Daewoo group. The company was established in 1981 (then called Daewoo Precision Industries Co. Ltd.) specifically to build small arms for the country’s armed forces. The company adopted its current name in 2012. As well as having a captive domestic market, S&T Motiv has also achieved considerable weapon exports to a variety of nations in Asia, Africa, the Middle East and South America.

These marines armed with K1A submachine guns are part of a mortar team. They have dug their 81mm KM187 mortar into a shallow depression to give indirect fire support to a newly established beachhead.

K5 9mm Pistol

The K5 9mm semiautomatic pistol from S&T Motiv is routinely carried by officers as a sidearm. The weapon is also used by tank crewmen, with the ROKMC operating both K1 and M48 tank types. The recoil-operated K5 was introduced to the country’s military in 1989 after its development from 1984-88.

A special aspect of the pistol is its triple-action trigger, which includes a ‘fast-action’ trigger mechanism. The latter permits the hammer to be decocked while the mainspring is still compressed. Thus, only a light trigger pull is needed to recock the hammer and fire the pistol in a conventional double-action mode. The advantage is that the first shot is more accurate because of the lighter trigger weight, plus it is safer because longer trigger travel is required to fire it. Alternatively, the hammer can be recocked manually to fire it in single-action mode.

The K5’s magazine contains 13 9x19mm Parabellum rounds. The pistol weighs 728g (without a magazine) and its total length is 190mm. The manufacturer quotes its range as 50m.

This 1st lieutenant of the ROKMC is aiming a K5 9mm pistol. Carriage of this weapon type befits someone of officer rank in the Marines. Note that the officer is wearing the latest digital-pattern uniform.

K1A 5.56mm Submachine Gun

The K1A submachine gun has been around for a long time, and its use is widespread in the ROKMC as its compact proportions make it easier to manhandle within the confines of an amphibious assault vehicle, for example. The K1 was the first modern firearm developed by the country’s Agency for Defense Development (ADD), intended as a replacement for the M3 for use by Special Forces. Manufactured by S&T Motiv, the K1 entered service in 1981. These original weapons suffered from problems caused by a poorly designed flash suppressor, excessive recoil and a weak stock.

However, these early troubles were soon solved in the follow-on K1A that made its appearance in 1982; this is the variant now in service. It is distinguished by a flash suppressor that has three holes in the top-right quadrant to reduce muzzle flip. While the K1 submachine gun shares development history with the regular K2 assault rifle, they are different designs. The direct-impingement gas system of the K1 fires 5.56x45mm rounds. S&T Motiv has since developed the K2C, a carbine version of the K2 assault rifle. While it could be a potential replacement for the K1A, it seems destined for Special Forces use first. The K2C has been field tested by the ROK military, and an S&T Motiv spokesman told SADJ it is scheduled to be
introduced in 2015.

The K1A weighs 2.87 kg and its barrel is 263 mm long. The submachine gun measures 838 mm in length with its stock extended, or 653 mm when folded. The submachine gun’s effective firing range is given as 250 m (using M193 ammunition), and it has a rate of fire of 700-900 rounds per minute. The magazine holds 30 rounds.

A private first class protects a beachhead after coming ashore aboard a KAAV amphibious assault vehicle near Pohang. He is armed with a K2 assault rifle, the standard personal weapon in both the ROKMC and ROK Army.

K2 5.56mm Assault Rifle

The K2 assault rifle is the standard personal weapon of a South Korean Marine. Produced by the same company that makes the K1A, the K2 was inducted into South Korean service in 1984 as a replacement for the M16A1, which is still found in the hands of some reserves. Interestingly, the K2’s development commenced before that of the K1 (it actually started in 1972) even though it was introduced several years later. At the time, Colt accused the designer of copying its M16, an allegation that was not upheld. Indeed, few parts are interchangeable with the M16.

The K2 is a gas-operated, long-stroke weapon with three selectable firing modes: semiautomatic, three-round burst and full automatic. A couple of variants have been developed and trialed, including the aforementioned 3.77 kg K2C carbine with a shorter barrel (310 mm compared to the standard 465 mm), extendable buttstock, a Picatinny rail and Dong In Optics red dot sight. Destined to be the K2’s eventual replacement, the K2A is an enhanced version that features a Picatinny rail and foregrip. A company representative revealed two stocks will be available – fixed (but foldable) or extendable. Until it is introduced, the K2 will continue as the mainstay
weapon of personnel in the ROKMC.

The 3.37 kg K2 assault rifle fires a 5.56x45mm round from a 30-round magazine. The rifle is 970 mm long, which reduces to 780 mm when the butt is folded. The K2’s range is claimed by the manufacturer to be 460 m (with M193 ammunition) and its rate of fire is 700-900 rounds per minute.

Another view of a K2 assault rifle, a 5.56mm weapon manufactured by S&T Motiv. Observe the hinge for the folding buttstock that reduces its overall length of 110 mm to 780 mm.

K201 40mm Under-Barrel Grenade Launcher

The K2 assault rifle can be fitted with a K201 40mm under-barrel grenade launcher that is modeled on the ubiquitous M203, but which S&T Motiv claims is its own independent design. The K201 fires a 40x46mm grenade. In a typical nine-man ROKMC or ROK Army squad, there are two dedicated grenadiers who carry K201 grenade launchers mounted on their K2 rifles.

K11 Dual-Barrel Airburst Weapon

While the K1A1 and K2 have been around for many years, the small arms inventory of South Korea’s military has been partially modernized by the introduction of the K11 in 2010. This weapon is innovative in that it is an assault rifle cum grenade launcher. Dubbed the Dual-Barrel Airburst Weapon by manufacturer S&T Motiv, the K11 can fire both 5.56x45mm bullets and 20x30mm airburst smart grenades via a single trigger.

The grenade launcher is mounted above the rifle barrel, and grenades can employ one of three settings. One is detonation upon impact, and another is a timed fuse after impact. Alternatively, the weapon’s electronics can program the grenade to detonate a few meters from the target. Such an airburst effect above or to the side can kill enemy soldiers within a 6 m radius. The K11’s operator simply has to enter the range at which he wishes the round to explode, meaning the round does not have to directly hit the target to score a kill. To achieve this, the K11 has a laser rangefinder, ballistics computer and night sight in its fire control system, this being produced by EOST (Electro-Optic Systems and Technology). An electronic scope is integrated onto the K11 with a digital display.

The K11 was the world’s first such airburst rifle to be issued as standard to soldiers. However, it is not widely issued yet, and the first place to see it so far has been in the inventory of ROK United Nations peacekeeping troops. However, it is surely destined to reach the ROKMC. It will not replace the K201 40mm under-barrel grenade launcher because of its high price and its less-lethal round compared to the K201. Defects showed up in the first K11 rifles, which halted production in 2011. Production later resumed, with 4,000 K11s manufactured by the end of 2014.

The rifle can accept a 20- or 30-round 5.56mm magazine, and a five-round 20mm grenade magazine. The two types of grenades available are the K168 training round and the 100g K167 high-explosive round. The effective firing range for both systems is quoted as 500 m. The K11 is 860 mm long and it weighs a hefty 6.1 kg without magazines. The 5.56 mm barrel is 310 mm long, while the grenade barrel is 405 mm long.

On a beach near Pohang on the east coast, this Marine is wielding a K2 assault rifle fitted with a K201 40mm under-barrel grenade launcher. It is essentially the same as the U.S.-manufactured M203.

K3 5.56mm Light Machine Gun

Whereas the K1 and K2 were the first indigenous weapons to reach the ROK Armed Forces under its national self-sufficiency policy, the gas-operated K3 light machine gun was the third such weapon developed at home. Manufactured by S&T Motiv since its induction in 1989, it was inspired by the FN Minimi and it replaced the incumbent M60 machine gun that served as a universal machine gun at that time. South Korea, heavily influenced by U.S. doctrine, introduced the K3 as it followed the USA’s introduction of the M249 Squad Automatic Weapon (SAW)
in the 1980s.

The K3 fires 5.56x45mm rounds supplied from either a 30-round box magazine that feeds from the left, or a 200-round disintegrating-link belt. A 70-round box magazine may be encountered on rare occasions. The K3’s maximum effective range is 800 m.

At 7.1 kg, it is significantly lighter than the M60, although its 5.56mm firepower is correspondingly lighter too. The K3 is usually fired on a bipod mount, but it can also be fitted on a tripod for sustained fire utilizing its maximum 1,000 rounds per minute rate of fire. A built-in carry handle eases the task of changing a hot barrel. The barrel is 483 mm long, whereas the entire K3 measures 1.046 m in length. A shortened and lighter (6.3 kg) K3 Para variant also exists (953 mm long with its buttstock extended), and this features a rail accessory system. A squad typically contains one K3 light machine gun.

The author did not see the K11 Dual-Barrel Airburst Weapon in the hands of Marine battalions participating in Exercise Ssang Yong 2014. However, South Korea will gradually introduce it more widely into its armed forces.

K4 40mm Automatic Grenade Launcher

Even just a cursory glance at the K4 40mm automatic grenade launcher (AGL) produced by S&T Motiv reveals it is closely modeled on the Mk 19 from the U.S. The K4 was introduced to South Korean troops in 1993. It fires 40x53mm grenade rounds (in high-explosive dual-purpose (HEDP), high-explosive (HE) or target practice (TP) types) at a rate of 325-375 rounds per minute. The K4 AGL’s effective firing range is 1,500 m, and it weighs 63.9 kg (with tripod) or 34.4 kg (without tripod). It is often vehicle-mounted on an M4 pedestal, or it can be mounted on an M3A tripod for ground use.

Ammunition is carried in a 48-round or 24-round box, and the manufacturer claims the K4’s rounds can penetrate 2 inches of armor at a range of 2,000 m. The grenades have a 15 m blast and fragmentation effect. A KAN/TVS-5 night sight can be attached to the K4 as well. The AGL is 1.072 m long.

K6 .50 Cal. Heavy Machine Gun

The K6 .50 caliber weapon is clearly a locally manufactured version of the Browning M2HB heavy machine gun, modified so its barrel can be quickly changed. This weapon that is license-built by S&T Dynamics entered South Korean service in 1990. It weighs 38 kg and the manufacturer lists its effective firing
range as 1,830 m.

Within the ROKMC the 1.654 m-long K6 is typically found fitted on armored vehicles such as the K200 armored personnel carrier, K55 self-propelled howitzer and K1 main battle tank. However, the K6 machine gun can also be tripod-mounted for ground use. Its rate of fire is 450-600 rounds per minute.

The K3 light machine gun of 5.56mm caliber is similar in design and intention to the FN Minimi. The yellow band on the bush hat of this Marine signifies he is an opposing forces (OPFOR) member.

K14 Sniper Rifle

For a long time the South Korean military lacked a sniper capability, but U.S. experience in Iraq and Afghanistan, as well as its own combat deployments, convinced the South Korean military that it had to address this capability gap. Two types of sniper rifle can now be found in the ROKMC – the K14 and Steyr SSG3000. The former is – predictably – produced by S&T Motiv, meeting a requirement delineated in 2011 for bolt-action 7.62x51mm rifles. After its development period, the K14 was duly accepted into service in late 2012 as South Korea’s first general-issue sniper rifle. The author has not yet spotted it in ROKMC service, but its arrival seems inevitable.

The rifle comes with a four-way Picatinny rail handguard plus a bipod. Foreign-sourced scopes such as the Schmidt & Bender PM II or Leupold Mark 4 are currently favored over domestic sights. The K14 is fed from a detachable magazine containing five rounds, although an optional ten-round version is also available. The rifle measures 1.15 m long and it weighs just 7 kg with an optical sight fitted. Its maximum range is listed as 800 m. Understandably, as the country’s first domestically developed sniper rifle, it is a no-frills weapon without too
many exotic features.

KM181 60mm Mortar

Marine infantry battalions have fire support available in the shape of two mortar systems – one of 60mm caliber and one of 81mm. The KM181 is produced by Hyundai WIA, a company that specializes in producing artillery and mortar systems for the ROK Armed Forces.

The maximum range of the KM181 is 3,590 m (minimum is 67 m), and up to 20 rounds can be fired per minute for a sustained period of ten minutes, according to the manufacturer. The complete mortar weighs 19.5 kg and the barrel is 987 mm long.

The K14 has taken up position as South Korea’s first ever indigenously designed sniper rifle. Firing 7.62x51mm ammunition, the K14 has a maximum range of 800 m.

KM187 81mm Mortar

The larger brother of the 60mm KM181 is the KM187. This 81mm mortar is also produced by Hyundai WIA. Weighing 42 kg, the mortar offers a minimum/maximum range of 78 m to 6,325 m. The KM187 offers a rate of fire of 20 rounds per minute for the first 1.5 minutes, and after that a sustained rate of ten rounds per minute. The barrel of the
KM187 is 1.55 m long.

Anti-Tank Weapons

Several anti-tank weapons such as the TOW missile, Metis-M missile and Panzerfaust 3 are available to the ROK military, but it is worth mentioning one interesting weapon here – the M67 90mm recoilless rifle that dates from the Vietnam War era. This American system was actually manufactured in South Korea, and it remains in modern-day use within the ROK Marine Corps. The breech-loaded weapon is fired from a bipod resting on the ground, or shoulder-launched. The M67 can be used against armor, fortifications or personnel, but it is notorious for its large backblast. The M67 requires a team of three to operate: a gunner, assistant gunner and ammo bearer.

Also of interest, South Korea has deployed the Spike NLOS missile with 20 km range on its northwest islands to help protect against hostile DPRK acts.

As this picture taken at the Seoul International Aerospace & Defense Exhibition (ADEX) in 2013 shows, the K4 automatic grenade launcher is a copy of the Saco Defense Industries Mk 19.

Good view of a standard 5.56mm magazine inserted into the feed of a K3 light machine gun. The weapon can also be fed from a 200-round belt. Note the Minimized Thermal Weapon Sight (MTWS) sight produced by EOST mounted on this weapon.

This mortar team was inserted by MV-22B Osprey aircraft during Exercise Ssang Yong 2014. The team is operating a KM181 60mm mortar produced by Hyundai WIA. This weapon’s maximum range is just shy of 3,600 m.

The M67 recoilless rifle dating from the 1960s is still alive and well. Here, two OPFOR Marines have set up a bipod-mounted 90mm M67 to defend the coast against ‘invasion’ during an exercise.

The Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan is host to the SOFEX military trade show held every two years in Amman, Jordan. Regionally, this is one of the most important shows that concerned people can attend. It’s not just the juxtaposition to current combat areas; Jordan has always been a meeting ground for concerned military groups. Vendors report a lot of success if their products meet the current threats, but the Jordanian Armed Forces have always looked at different possible solutions to the threats, and tried many alternatives. In other words, if you have an innovative weapon or military product, the odds are that there will be people in authority willing to give it a test. And, those people are definitely at the SOFEX show, looking to talk with the vendors.

This atmosphere attracts a lot of interesting companies, thus, SOFEX has become a gathering place for interested end users as well. A lot of exhibitors were from U.S. companies, as always. This doesn’t mean that the Russians and Chinese aren’t heavily represented; they are and have their own buildings. It’s just that a plethora of U.S. small arms manufacturers were there at the show, with real weapons on display instead of just posters. That tends to draw more interest. Poland, Bulgaria, Serbia, France, and the UK also had heavy representation.

Every two years SOFEX coincides with the annual KASOTC Warrior Competition with SADJ attending both. While the SOFEX show has a concentration of vendors in a variety of buildings around a central parade ground, with outdoor exhibits, there is also an air show, and numerous demonstrations of tactical skills. The heliborne assault that is presented is not only visual, but a crowd pleaser. Special Forces troops ride in to rescue “hostages” in a very high speed and theatrical manner. So, the show is broken up for the attendees by outdoor events that are right on premises and don’t take the attendees away from the displays for very long. All in all, a very satisfying event, and SOFEX, while a mature show, shows all the signs of continuing to grow.

ADS (Advanced Defense Systems, Inc.) had a variety of targeting systems and optical systems.

Barrett’s M107 series is the standard in long range rifles worldwide. Here it is shown with suppressor and BORS sniper system.

Dillon Aero has had quite a few contracts with the Jordanian military, and hopes to continue that relationship in upgrading more of the weapons<br /> platforms in use there.

Karl Lewis (center) introduced the new LMT stand-alone mount for the M203 40x46mm grenade launcher. What makes this launcher stand out is that it can be ordered with the ability to mount a standard M203, not just a rail mounted one.

Bob Landies III and Jerry Hurd of Ohio Ordnance Works show the tactical HCAR rifle – what might be the final evolution of the venerable 1918 BAR. Caliber is .30-06 with all the range and capability that implies.

Steve Herberth has done a lot of business in Jordan, and brings the AA12 fully automatic select fire shotgun to the demonstrations there.

Aselsan from Turkey had their remote weapon system with M2HB .50 caliber machine gun.

NAMMO presented their standard shoulder fired anti-tank and anti-bunker systems like the M72 series, but also showed some thermobaric capabilities.

SIG Sauer’s new MPX series submachine guns, along with their rifles and suppressors, proved popular with the attendees at SOFEX.

ResQmax presented some very versatile air tools including this grappling hook launcher with multiple line-throwing capabilities.

Cyber-attack. Strategic penetration of an opponent’s government, financial and military systems can be used to confuse, slow or stop an enemy. Cyber-attack targets might include public utility systems and everything else from power generation, to water purification and management, to fuel refinement and distribution throughout the country.

Hacking into intelligence, industrial, financial and utility infrastructure networks, emplacing malware, and conducting cyber espionage is commonplace today and is on the rise. Formidable hacking attacks against opponent’s and potential opponent’s military and industrial complexes, financial system, power grid, diplomatic and political bureaucracy are discovered on a near weekly basis. Attribution of these attacks is even more difficult to ascertain than the attacks themselves.

On November 20, 2014, Admiral Michael Rodgers, who heads the National Security Agency (NSA) and collaterally serves as head of U.S. Cyber Command, told a Congressional panel, “The United States has detected malware on U.S. computer systems from China, Russia and elsewhere that affect the daily lives of every American.” In testimony before the House Intelligence Committee Rogers warned, “It enables you to shut down very segmented, very tailored parts of our infrastructure that forestall the ability to provide that service to us as citizens.” He also stated that nation-states and other actors are conducting “cyber reconnaissance” to seek out and identify U.S. vulnerabilities, thus providing them a means to catalog vulnerabilities and prioritize attacks. “We see them attempting to steal information on how our systems are configured, the very schematics of most of our control systems, down to engineering level of detail so they can look at where are the vulnerabilities, how are they constructed, how could I get in and defeat them. We’re seeing multiple nation-states invest in those kinds of capabilities,” he noted.

In related testimony, FBI Director Robert Mueller recently stated, “The cyber threat will equal or surpass the threat from (radical) terrorism in the foreseeable future.” Both government and industry cyber experts predict a devastating cyber-attack resulting in significant loss of life and financial damage will occur against the U.S. by 2025 and it will be done through keystrokes and computers. Powerful firewalls, encryption and light-speed counter-attacks are the only countermeasures on the horizon.

Automatous artificial intelligence will navigate, interact and operate side-by-side with humans in all manners imaginable. This will be coupled with various robots that can rapidly assemble-reassemble themselves into a variety of configurations by teaming with other robot specialists to meet specific operational requirements. The potential for warfighting applications are as infinite as are the applications to improve the human condition. As artificial intelligence advances exponentially, Japan is preparing for the mass commercialization of hyper-real robots (androids) that will, for example, replace TV news readers, receptionists, fast food order takers, restaurant servers, teachers and some categories of skilled workers. It is anticipated that, within the next ten years, androids will become so real, that humans will take them as sex partners and live-ins as these fully independent “humanoids” become nearly indistinguishable from humans in looks and behavior.

TALOS. Before realizing mature hands-off artificial intelligence, TALOS will be fielded. TALOS (Tactical Assault Light Operator Suit) is a robotic exoskeleton that the U.S. Special Operations Command is currently working to field as soon as technically possible. Stated TALOS requirements are that it must be bulletproof, weaponized, have the ability to monitor vitals and give the wearer superhuman strength and perception. The 1st generation suits currently being tested comprise interactive layers of smart material coupled with sensors that are
externally powered.

Development of the TALOS suit is a remarkably collaborative effort shared between the national laboratory complex, a variety of U.S. government agencies, numerous universities and industry. They are working to develop a climate controlled, powered exoskeleton that provides the wearer super-human strength, full-body armor that can be scaled to defeat a
particular threat level, and interactive situational-awareness displays. SOCOM plans to field a TALOS independently operational (internally powered) combat suit prototype system by 2018.

Beyond unanticipated developmental costs, there are a number of scientific and technical development issues that may slow TALOS’s realization. Because some of the TALOS technologies simply don’t exist today, a number of scientists and engineers close to the project believe that TALOS, as envisioned, probably can’t be achieved before 2025. TALOS technologies needing development include next-generation full-body ballistic armor materials, powered exoskeletons for mobility and agility, conformable and wearable power generation, suit thermal management, computers, communications, antennae, and real-time combat-ready displays with non-traditional information presentation, as well as embedded medical monitoring and biomechanical modeling. Much of this technology must be invented and that is being achieved by a number of different developers. Interoperability of these newly developed components is also a challenge rivaling the modules composing the International Space Station. Power generation is perhaps the biggest problem, because there is currently no self-contained, lightweight, low-bulk, wearable, power generation system adaptable to TALOS’s anticipated power demands that keeps the suit light enough to remain agile. That said, we are optimistic that TALOS will become a reality, and in doing so advance the potential of cyborg and android warfighting robot specialists.

Soldier-carried laser weapons. The future warfare environment demands the addition of effective non-kinetic weapons. That translated means a soldier-carried (non-kinetic) directed energy weapon. The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) has funded national weapon laboratories like Los Alamos, Sandia, and Laurence Livermore, university applied physics laboratories, as well as private industry, to develop and weaponize directed energy technologies for battlefield use.

Directed energy technology increases exponentially as does today’s computing power, its close relative. Many think of directed energy in terms of microwave beams or visible light spectrum lasers, but the directed energy weapons of tomorrow may consist of a mix of many, giving them effectiveness requiring countermeasures so sophisticated and/or expensive the enemy won’t attempt them.

There are a multitude of directed energy possibilities that are being considered for use as a soldier-carried battlefield anti-personnel weapon (See www.acq.osd.mil/dsb/reports/ADA476320.pdf). Developing an affordable battlefield laser weapon small enough and light enough for individual soldiers to carry, challenges the Law of Physics that universally dictate what is and is not possible. These emerging technologies all have pros and cons with respect to capability, reliability, lethality, legality, portability, power requirements, sustainability, maintainability, produceability and cost.

Electromagnetic rail gun technology. Unlike a coilgun, which employs a series electromagnetic coils wrapped around the gun barrel that are sequentially energized at precise times to move the projectile down the bore, a railgun uses two bus bars (rails) to conduct the current lineally along the barrel (not bore) through a cross-connector (armature) that turns the current from one rail and back down the other. The force generated is analogous to that of the hydraulic force that straightens a curved fire hose. Railgun-fired projectiles ride the inside of the launch barrel in a sabot – the projectile itself is not in contact with the barrel. As the projectile exits the barrel, the sabot is stripped away from the projectile by aerodynamic lift, and the 60 to 80 pound hyper-velocity projectile is on its way to the target at speeds exceeding Mach 10. A typical target can be a missile, a floating platform or something land based. The importance of this emerging railgun technology to the future battle-space is that it provides a single weapon with a multi-role capability. Its elimination of propellant, high capacity (deep magazine), and low engagement cost, along with its minimum requirement for kinetic kill energetics, significantly reduces it logistics tail. Its precision accuracy in air and missile defense, counterbattery fire and surgical strike, additionally offer a low potential for collateral damage.

Current railguns are large systems that require large power generators and capacitor storage banks. Using current technology, a land based system would require two mammoth M1070 tractor-trailer units that each carry generators, thermal management apparatus, a battery unit and pulse power unit. These two trailers plug into a third tractor-trailer unit that carries the railgun, ammunition magazine and fire control system. This railgun system is based on shipboard installation requirements, where volume is less precious. General Atomics is working to reduce the size of land-based mobile systems (Navy funded a shipboard application), but for now, it’s big, but it’s also “bad!” The Railgun can shoot a multipurpose projectile over a hundred miles with pinpoint accuracy several times a minute. Future versions can even shoot ballistic missiles out of their in-bound trajectory prior to reentry. The railgun’s long-range projectiles have a guided capability that gives them their pinpoint accuracy and allows them to adjust their path in flight. There are even special projectiles used for space targets that contain small maneuver-thrusters for steering/course correction in a non-air environment.

As this technology is perfected, we will undoubtedly see it shrink in size, but will it ever become man-portable? The scientific answer is that this technology will be refined, and at some point, it will become smaller, lighter and modular. It will reach a point where the Law of Physics will limit the reduction of its size and it can go no smaller. Man portability may never be attained, but robot modular portability potentially could, if such a capability was seen as operationally justifiable and cost effective. More exciting however, is the likely refinement in its accuracy and capability through the use of super sophisticated fire control computers that are interoperable with other powerful target detection and direction systems. While General Atomics flatly refuses to discuss the potential (and understandably so), there is no reason why this gun couldn’t be used to shoot hostile satellites out of space orbit (with little to no attack signature). There is also probably no reason why, if fired from a sea based, or friendly country’s mobile platforms, it couldn’t be used to shoot down hostile ICBMs during the boost stage, or the orbital phase, or take out the launch facility all together. Again, the imagination is the limit for this technology.

Rods from God. So you ask, what is a “Rod from God?” Quite simply, the rods are inert (containing no explosive) 20 feet long one foot diameter finned pole-like tungsten rods, launched from a space-based orbital platform (God), that re-enter Earth’s gravity with tremendous velocity. They are guided by the launch satellite through re-entry and are capable of striking practically any surface or sub-surface target (land or sea) anywhere on the face of the earth. Their destructive force comes from the high velocity kinetic energy they deliver on target, comparable to that of a small nuclear detonation minus the radiation. Rods from God can easily penetrate hundreds of feet into solid rock and deliver a high-energy blast, along with hyper-velocity shock wave pressures, that effectively shatters surrounding rock or reinforced concrete for thousands of feet within the shock radius. Deep underground structures (DUGS) within the blast radius cannot survive no matter how reinforced they may have been designed.

The satellite carrying multiple rods can change orbits and altitudes as necessary bringing the rods to bear above the targets selected for kinetic bombardment. It otherwise remains passively in orbit, waiting for the launch code. Once the rods are released, the time between re-entry and impact would only take a few minutes. Additionally, because the rods present a very small re-entry signature and they re-enter at hyper-velocity speeds exceeding Mach 10 at very high angles, they are virtually impossible to defend against. Countermeasures for the rods once launched have yet to be developed. The only countermeasure is to destroy the orbital launch platform prior to its launch of the rods.

While the 1979 Strategic Arms Limitation Talks between the U.S. and the Soviet Union led to mutual agreement to prohibit the deployment of third generation orbital weapons of mass destruction (nukes) containing Multiple Independently Targetable Reentry Vehicles (MIRVs), it did not prohibit the deployment of conventional weapons. Neither is the Rods from God system prohibited by either the Outer Space Treaty that provides the basic legal framework of international space law specifically barring party states from placing weapons of mass destruction in Earth orbit, installing them on the Moon or any other celestial body, or to otherwise station them in outer space.

Electro-magnetic pulse (EMP) weaponry. Within the grasp of most nuclear-capable states and non-state actors, an EMP weapon is an undeniable threat to modern electronic-dependent infrastructure, but is it operationally feasible without attribution and retaliation? The short answer is no. Nukes are exceedingly expensive to build and deliver and all have a specific origin of manufacture fingerprint. But can a non-nuclear EMP be generated? The longer answer is yes – and here’s how. There are a number of natural phenomena that generate EMP. Sunspots, lightening; even major earthquakes are some examples of natural EMP generators. Manmade examples are nuclear and non-nuclear EMP generators. While we’re all somewhat familiar with EMPs resulting from nuclear detonation and power grid surges, there is another non-nuclear means to explosively generate a sizeable EMP and you don’t need to be a nuclear power to build them.

An explosively-pumped flux compression generator (EPFCG) is a device used to generate a high-power electromagnetic pulse by compressing magnetic flux resulting from detonating a small conventional high explosive charge. The compression process resulting from the explosion, transforms the chemical energy of the explosives into the energy of an intense magnetic field that correspondingly produces a large electric current electromagnetic pulse. Because an EPFCG is physically destroyed by the explosive charge that is used to generate its pulse, it can be used only once. A very formidable EPFCG package small enough to be easily man-carried can produce a pulse in the range of millions of amperes and tens of terawatts, exceeding the power of a lightning strike by orders of magnitude. Most EPFCG designs require a starting current pulse to operate, usually supplied by a bank of high capacity capacitors. One or more of these EMP weapons detonated in the heart of any major city will result in massive EMP destruction and/or interruption of all systems that are electronically reliant.

Electro-muscular disabling technology. A potential less-than-lethal technology being pursued today by a small privately funded firm involves electro-muscular incapacitation. Their patented technology induces a very select waveform into the body’s spinal cord, shutting down the individual’s Sympathetic Nervous System’s “fight and flight” ability without affecting the higher portion of the Autonomic Nervous System’s (ANS) ability to keep a person’s heart beating or one’s respiration. Currently, physical contact is necessary to induce this waveform into the body but there is talk of using directed energy to induce this waveform. Obviously, if an attack on a particular part of the ANS is possible, they could likewise attack the part that controls the heart and breathing and like Star Trek, with a simple click of a switch, select a stun or kill mode. If this could be achieved using a directed energy beam, a weapon such as this could be as monumental to modern warfare as the atomic bomb was to WWII, especially if it could be adapted to wide area look down-shoot down UAV aerial delivery.

Man induced weather extremes as a weapon. California’s current drought is in its tenth year with no end in sight. Reservoirs and freshwater sources like rivers and wells are at their lowest levels in recorded history. Rationing of potable water has been imposed upon residents, and even sufficient quantities of non-potable water for farming irrigation is critically limited. Discounting the non-scientific climate change claims made by former vice-president Al Gore, these drought conditions are the result of weather patterns that man has no control over. But what if man could influence the weather, or, at least manipulate specific regional weather patterns to intentionally cause floods, drought and/or temperature extremes within an opponents’ home country or area of operation(s)? Perhaps, in the not too far distant future, man will be able to influence weather patterns by employing atmospheric chemical seeding and dynamic thermal energetic stimuli utilizing lasers and electromagnetic influence.

In 1994 the U.S. Air Force revealed a master plan they named Spacecast 2020. Among several stated objectives, the plan includes the stated unambiguous goal of weather control. The plan openly acknowledged, “Using environmental modification techniques to destroy, damage or injure another state are prohibited.” The Air Force justified its weather modification research based upon advances in (weather modification) technology that “compels a reexamination of this sensitive and potentially risky topic.” In 1997, while at a high-level conference on weapons of mass destruction, U.S. Secretary of Defense William Cohen went on record with a revealing statement, “Others (nations) are engaging in an eco-type of terrorism,” he noted, “whereby they can alter the climate, set off earthquakes, volcanoes remotely through the use of electromagnetic waves. So, there are plenty of ingenious minds out there that are at work finding ways in which they can wreak terror upon other nation. It’s real, and that’s the reason why we have to intensify our own efforts.”

DARPA has considered a number of potential weather modification technologies over the last twenty years. Some of the open source reports point to manipulating lightening, hurricanes and earthquakes in projects code named respectively, Skyfire, Stormfurry and Prime Argus. DARPA also invested $30 million in a secret project (likely much more on the black side), code named HAARP. HAARP is short for High Frequency Active Auroral Research Program. It works by beaming more than 1.7 gigawatts (1.7 billion watts) of radiated power into the electrically charged layer above Earth’s atmosphere known as the ionosphere. This literally boils the upper atmosphere and selectively displaces the surrounding ozone layer, allowing weather modification above a planned location. The weather extreme desired and the area targeted can be manipulated by the amount of energy used and the direction it is aimed. While HAARP’s official story characterizes it as an experimental antenna used for submarine communications (and it may well do that), but it has far more sinister applications the military isn’t revealing.

There are many more technologies that can be explored. The technologies chosen for this article show both game-changing promise and future direction. It is our sincere desire that you find this thought provoking, disturbing, or even somewhat comforting. Perhaps there is a big picture somewhere out there in the ether. If so, its boundaries need to be defined.

Steiner Introduces “Intelligent” Combat Sight (ICS)

Steiner’s new “Intelligent” Combat Sight (ICS) integrates a laser rangefinder and a ballistic calculator into a rugged and compact tactical weapons sight. The ICS, a true electro-optical aiming device, provides trajectory compensation by automatically calculating the point of aim based on ammunition ballistics, measured distance and angle to the target out to 800 meters. The precision of the 6x40mm ICS greatly increases accuracy and first round hit probability for improved battlefield effectiveness for infantry soldiers and tactical operators using small caliber weapons. Just feed the ICS your cartridge’s ballistic info and the scope’s computer and inclinometer instantly calculate perfect hold-over at your exact distance and gives you a bright red dot in seconds – all at the push of a button. Despite its sophisticated technology, the ICS is a ruggedized, simple to operate combat optic that requires minimal training. While the magnification is optimized for the 7.62x51mm Battle Rifle, the ICS’s internal ballistic calculator is easily configurable for specific 5.56mm, .300 Blackout and .300 WinMag cartridges. The 6x40mm ICS is fully adjustable for windage and 120 MOA of elevation, and the illuminated reticle adjusts from dim to bright for daylight conditions. A Picatinny base on top of the ICS allows for the addition of a CQB sight, and a back-up iron sight on the right side provides an auxiliary sighting option. The sight is powered by one CR123A battery and the Class I Eye Safe laser and is waterproof up to 10 m. Find more at www.steiner-optics.com.

Adams Arms Announces New .308 Piston Driven Rifles

Adams Arms Announces New .308 Piston Driven Rifles

Adams Arms is proud to announce the introduction of their revolutionary new piston driven small frame .308 rifle. With their years of research and development they’ve engineered the finest .308 to ever hit the market. Weighing in at less than 8 pounds and more than 50% reciprocal to standard AR-15 components, their innovative .308 rifles will be setting a new standard in the firearms industry. The new lineup includes 4 models with options and price points from entry level all the way to the FAST model, which will be able to outperform and outlast anything on the market. All rifles will feature; Voodoo Innovations melonited barrels, guaranteed 1 MOA accuracy for life, pressure relief cuts under the barrel extension, LifeCoat brass saver bolts and kidney shaped ejector. The LX proprietary design allows brass to eject cleanly and efficiently, while preserving it for reloading. Their LifeCoat coating provides the lubricity of nickel with the corrosion resistance and hardness of PVD, increasing the life of the part exponentially. The guns also feature the XLP Adjustable Gas Block and Selector and Picatinny Adjustable Gas Block (on Standard & MOE Models). With retail prices ranging from $1,329.99 to $2,999.99 there is a model to fit every need and budget. More information at www.adamsarms.net.

Faxon Firearms Adds New 7.62x39 Kit to ARAK-21 Platform

Faxon Firearms Adds New 7.62×39 Kit to ARAK-21 Platform

Faxon Firearms, manufacturer of the innovative ARAK platform, is proud to announce the addition of the 7.62×39 Russian caliber to its offerings for the ARAK-21. This addition will allow the user the added advantage of a larger caliber round and less expensive ammunition for more range time. This system makes the ARAK-21 platform one of the most versatile platforms on the market, allowing the user to have the potential to have three rifles in one (5.56, .300blk and now 7.62×39). The 7.62×39 caliber will be available for order in standard ARAK-21 upper receivers, complete XRS rifles, and as a stand-alone kit for existing ARAK-21s. Kits will be available in 12.5-inch and 16-inch medium profile barrels. Current ARAK-21 users/owners can simply purchase the 7.62×39 kit as an addition to their current rifle upper. The 7.62×39 caliber kit comes with an interchangeable bolt, firing pin and barrel, all designed to work interchangeably with the current ARAK-21 upper receivers and XRS rifles. Rather than modify existing components, Faxon took detailed time and testing to create a robust set of solutions that solve many of the issues of the cartridge that plague other conversions. They lowered and widened the feed ramps to ensure consistent chambering, increased the bolt diameter to handle bolt thrust, and supply a new firing pin that matches the depth and width of the venerable AK to ensure consistent ignition. They set out to design a platform based rifle that takes the best of the AR and the best of the AK and combine them into one rifle with cross caliber capabilities. With the addition of the 7.62×39, they are expanding the capabilities for each user of the ARAK-21. This option further expands his or her platform and opens up many new shooting options. The ARAK-21 7.62×39 Kit has a retail price $499. Retail price for single barrel upper receivers is $1,199 and multiple caliber kits that include 7.62×39 will add $99 for the bolt and firing pin. 7.62×39 equipped ARAKs and kits will start shipping late February. More information can be found at www.faxonfirearms.com.

Mossberg Releases MVP Light Chassis and Blaze 47 Rimfire

Mossberg Releases MVP Light Chassis and Blaze 47 Rimfire

What could possibly improve the accuracy and handling qualities of Mossberg’s groundbreaking MVP Series of bolt-action rifles? Why not add a lightweight, aluminum MDT chassis; Magpul Mil-Spec CTR adjustable stock and MOE pistol grip; SilencerCo Saker muzzle brake, and adjustable bipod? O.F. Mossberg & Sons, Inc. is pleased to announce the MVP-LC bolt-action target rifle in 5.56mm NATO (.223 Rem.) and 7.62mm NATO (.308 Win.); both available in optional Vortex-scoped combos. These AR-compatible bolt-actions utilize patented design features that accept and feed from AR-style magazines (AR-15-style for 5.56mm NATO and both M1A/M14 and AR-10-style for 7.62mm NATO models). Housed in an aluminum, tan-finished, light chassis stock
designed by MDT that provides a modular, ergonomic base, this MVP is engineered for accuracy with its V-shaped bedding and recoil lug area that only makes contact with the receiver at those points. The free-floating, medium bull barrel is threaded and comes with a SilencerCo Saker muzzle brake, utilizing the Trifecta quick-detach mounting system (thread cap included). The barrels, constructed of carbon steel, are button-rifled with 16.25-inch length and 1:7 twist rate in the 5.56mm NATO (.223 Rem.) chambering and the 7.62mm NATO (.308 Win.) sports an 18.5-inch barrel with a 1:10 twist rate. Both feature a matte blue finish on all metalwork. Enhancing the accuracy on this tack-driver is Mossberg’s Lightning Bolt Action (LBA) Trigger System that delivers a crisp, creep-free trigger pull and is user-adjustable from 3 to 7 pounds. Machined from aircraft-grade aluminum and hard-coat anodized to military spec, preventing corrosion and minimizing wear, the LBA trigger system delivers the utmost in reliability and durability for consistent shot placement. Additional design features include: spiral fluted bolt; oversized tactical-style bolt handle; Picatinny top rail for ease of adding optics; and adjustable bipod. MVP-LC rifles come standard with Magpul P-Mag 10-round magazines and with the patented designs of the MVP, you can use aftermarket AR-15 (5.56mm NATO/.223 Rem.) and both M1A/M14 and AR-10-style (7.62mm NATO/.308 Win.) aftermarket magazines. Both calibers are available in MVP-LC Scoped Combos, which include Vortex Optics Viper HS-T (Hunter Shooter Tactical) 4-16x44mm variable riflescope and rings. Mossberg has also introduced a newly-engineered line of lightweight and easy-handling Blaze autoloading rimfire rifles for 2015, and joining the family is the Blaze 47, replicating the look and feel of the widely-popular AK-47 rifle. These fun-to-shoot .22 LR autoloaders feature a polymer receiver and are available with fixed-length wood stocks or adjustable black synthetic stocks, featuring Mossberg’s innovative FLEX TLS (Tool-less Locking System) interchangeable recoil pad system. Both wood-stocked and synthetic versions are available with optional 10- or 25-round magazines. Experience the fun of shooting a classic military-style rifle platform in this affordable, American-made rimfire rifle series. The Blaze rimfire rifle design utilizes the durability and lightweight characteristics of today’s highly-engineered polymers. The molded polymer receiver and action are paired with compact 16.5-inch free-floating, blue-finished barrels with 1:16 twist rate. The metal bolt, firing pin and bolt handle feature complementing blue finish and the Blaze 47 also features an ambidextrous safety. The spring-loading, 10- and 25-round magazines are easy-to-load and are also sold as Mossberg-branded accessories. The Blaze 47 captures the look of the venerable AK-47 with the following standard features: adjustable fiber optic rear sight and raised front rifle sights; choice of fixed wood stocks with 13 1/2-inch length-of-pull (LOP) or lever-activated, 6-position adjustable LOP synthetic stock (11 1/4 – 14 inches) providing greater comfort for all shooters; and optional 10- or 25-round capacity magazines. Mossberg has also incorporated its user-friendly FLEX TLS System on the synthetic-stocked versions of the Blaze 47: with the simple push of the integrated TLS latch, the recoil pad can be easily interchanged for other sizes of FLEX recoil pads; no tools required. Go to their web site at www.mossberg.com.

Newest SureFire Scout Light Provides Power-Source Versatility

Newest SureFire Scout Light Provides Power-Source Versatility

SureFire, LLC, manufacturer of high-end illumination tools and tactical products, has commenced sales of the latest, highly versatile member of its best-selling, ever-expanding family of LED Scout Light Weapon Lights. The new M600 AA Scout Light-for long guns equipped with Mil-Std 1913 (Picatinny) rails-can be powered by AA lithium or AA alkaline batteries, the latter of which are typically more readily available globally particularly in remote or rural areas. Powered by two lithium AAs, the M600 AA’s solid-state light emitting diode (LED) generates a maximum output of 200 lumens and produces tactical-level output for up to 3.75 hours on a set of batteries. The output and runtime from two AA alkaline batteries is approximately one-third that from lithium AAs, but this reduced output/runtime is theoretically outweighed by the convenience of using these easier-to-find and often less-expensive power cells. But to maximize output and runtime, SureFire recommends powering the M600 AA with lithium batteries whenever possible. The M600 AA uses a proprietary Total Internal Reflection (TIR) lens to shape the LED’s output into a smooth, flawless beam with ample reach and enough surround light to maintain good situational awareness in close to medium-range applications. Like all SureFire Scout Lights, it securely attaches to any Mil-Std 1913 rail, the M600 AA utilizing an integral thumbscrew clamp that attaches/detaches the light to said rail in a matter of seconds. Constructed of lightweight aerospace aluminum that’s hard anodized with a Mil-Spec finish for added durability, this new Scout Light can be easily activated via its momentary-/constant-on click-type tailcap switch, or via several remote plug-in switch models available for purchase from SureFire as optional accessories. The M600 AA Scout Light has an MSRP of $299. More information can be found by visiting www.surefire.com online.

Adaptive Tactical Has New Sidewinder Venom 10-Round 12 Gauge Magazine

Adaptive Tactical Has New Sidewinder Venom 10-Round 12 Gauge Magazine

Adaptive Tactical, LLC, manufacturers of innovative firearm stocks and accessories, including the popular Sidewinder Venom shotgun systems, is proud to announce the release of its Sidewinder Venom 10-round box magazine for the Sidewinder Venom magazine-fed shotgun system. This system provides the ability to transform your Mossberg 590, 500* and 88** series 12 gauge pump action shotgun into a magazine fed, smooth operating tactical shotgun. The Venom 10-round magazine is compatible with 12 gauge 2.75-inch ammunition. It allows for rapid reloads while maintaining reliable feeding. Each magazine is made of durable polymer construction with strong composite and metal components. Magazines are available in Black, A-TACS, MultiCam, or Desert Digital. The interchangeable design makes this not only an innovation for the range but for home defense. Individuals now have the ability to leave their shotgun unloaded with an easy, quick loading option. This also allows for speedy transitions from buckshot to slugs or whichever ammunition the user chooses by labeling each mag with the specific shot shells loaded. For more information on Adaptive Tactical visit www.adaptivetactical.com.

MasterPiece Arms Unveils New MPA930DMG Pistol

MasterPiece Arms Unveils New MPA930DMG Pistol

MasterPiece Arms (MPA), manufacturers of the MPA MAC Line of semiautomatic pistols, carbines, suppressors and MPAR rifles, proudly announces the MPA930DMG, the first all-aluminum lower pistol from the new DMG (Defender, Machined, Grip) Series. This 9mm pistol is based on the 930sst, but includes a fully machined aluminum pistol grip and lower receiver. The 930DMG uses their fully machined grip system matched up with an all-aluminum lower receiver; significantly reducing the overall weight of the pistol. The 930DMG is chambered in 9mm, uses Glock style magazines, has adjustable front and rear sights, has a built-in single point sling flush cup, and mounting holes for a rear fixed or side folding stock. The MPA930DMG comes standard in Cerakote Tungsten coating. It is also available in Black, Gunmetal, Flat Dark Earth and Burnt Bronze Cerakote finishes. The pistol is further equipped with a side cocker, scope mount, hammer with disconnect (plus original hammer) and comes in an MPA polymer case. It will also be available in an SBR version shown in the photo. It has a retail price of $679.99. For more information on MasterPiece Arms and their product line of pistols, rifles, carbines and suppressors, visit www.masterpiecearms.com.

Ross & Zheng Engineering Unveils New Multi-Caliber UNIMAG AR Magazine

Ross & Zheng Engineering Unveils New Multi-Caliber UNIMAG AR Magazine

Ross & Zheng Engineering (RZE) has announced that it has a new multi-caliber magazine to fit the AR 5.56 platform guns. The UNIMAG multi-caliber magazine, RZE’s first production-ready firearm component, provides enhanced performance and reliability for gun owners and enthusiasts. Compatible with AR-15 and other rifles that use a STANAG magazine, the UNIMAG is proven to be reliable and functional for six different types of ammunition and counting. The patented design includes a two-piece, self-levering follower that maintains its stability while also accommodating tilt introduced by the ammo, and a self-adjusting magazine shell to regulate various cartridge diameters. This is the first magazine that can handle the .223, 6.5, 6.8 and the two AK calibers, the 7.62×39 and 5.45×39, reliably. It also offers manufacturers a tremendous opportunity to expand their AR-15 product families, particularly in 7.62×39 uppers and lowers. RZE’s proprietary technology is backed by patents, including the self-levering follower for a universal magazine of multiple caliber compatibility for firearms (U.S. 8667724 B2) and the magazine shell of a universal magazine of multiple caliber compatibility for firearms (U.S. 8850732 B2). The company holds two additional firearms accessory patents and has one patent pending. Learn more about the UNIMAG at www.rosszhengengineering.com.

New Seek Thermal Camera Makes It Easy to Focus In On Your Target

New Seek Thermal Camera Makes It Easy to Focus In On Your Target

Seek Thermal has just announced the Seek XR, an extended range version of its award-winning thermal camera. Created with outdoor enthusiasts in mind, the Seek XR allows people to literally see heat, making it possible to spot people and animals in total darkness. For hunters, the Seek XR can be used in daylight, the dark, or in obscured visibility conditions. It’s useful for scouting, bloodtrailing, hunting game, and much more. The new Seek XR has a manual focus lens for viewing objects at close range, or at distances of up to 2,000 feet. Until recently, the price of thermal imaging has kept it out of reach for almost everybody except military and law enforcement. The Seek XR will be available in January for both iOS and Android devices for $299 at www.thermal.com Thermal imaging converts heat energy into an image that can be seen with the human eye. Traditionally, thermal cameras costing several thousand dollars and up have been used by firefighters, law enforcement and the military to see through smoke or in complete darkness. Seek Thermal has pioneered the next generation of thermal imaging technology sized and priced for the everyday consumer. The Seek camera is a small device that plugs into the micro USB connector on Android devices and the Lightning™ connector on iOS devices. A durable magnesium housing protects a next-generation thermal sensor and custom chalcogenide lens. It weighs only 0.5 ounces and creates true thermal images with a resolution of 206×156, or over 32,000 thermal pixels. Prior to today this kind of resolution was only available in cameras costing several thousand dollars and up. The Seek camera works with a free app that is available in the Apple App store and on Google Play. The app makes it easy for people to get started with thermal imaging, while also including a range of controls substantial enough for people who use the camera for serious work or serious fun. App features include; capture and share thermal photos and videos, select from different temperature measurement modes including the ability to automatically highlight everything in the scene that is above or below a specified temperature and select from nine different color palettes. Technically called “LUTs,” there are different color ranges that can be applied to temperature measurements. You can also swipe seamlessly back and forth between a regular and a thermal image in Thermal+ mode. For more information visit www.thermal.com.