The post Watch On Duty Gear’s Coverage of SHOT Show 2024 first appeared on On Duty Gear Police, Tactical and Fire Blog.

Check out https://shotshow.org/ and https://www.nssf.org/ for more!

SHOT Show is the best place to be for the latest in technology and gear for our Shooting Sports world!

The post 2022 SHOT Show Prep Has Begun! first appeared on On Duty Gear Police, Tactical and Fire Blog.

I’m a geek when it comes to the new products and this was my year as a couple of well known brands had either recently launched or were getting ready to launch new toys. First up was Springfield and this Hellcat Micro Compact I’d been hearing so much about. While standing in line salivating at my opportunity to fire that beauty, I was awestruck by a new and yet to be released SAINT Edge EVAC. It looked like a rifle, but they were referring to it as a pistol. Hmm……as I kept moving up in line, I began to see it a little better and when I moved up enough in line that it was next to me, of course I took advantage of the opportunity to see what it was all about. Without knowing the weapon at all, was able to break it down fully in about 30 seconds with a little guidance from the factory rep….WOW!! Set to be released this Spring, it features a patent-pending barrel takedown system that is absolutely ingenious as well as a folding brace. Once fully broken down, it fits into a crazy small, portable zippered bag. I know I said I was concentrating on handguns but I couldn’t resist this one! It feels great in the hand, had excellent accuracy and an easy trigger.

Now; on to the Hellcat, being touted as the highest capacity 9mm Micro-Compact in the world. Indeed, with a 11+1 capacity with their patented mag and a 13+1 capacity of the included-in-the-package extended mag, they have certainly staked a righteous claim. Coming in at 4” high, 6” long and 1” wide, I was expecting a little bit lighter weight but again, who doesn’t like feeling the weight and taking comfort in a quality weapon that shoots almost as good as it feels? As it turns out, it weighs in at an admirable 18.3 oz (I think maybe when you see the size of it, your mind automatically tricks you into thinking the weight is proportionate?). The frame is made out of black polymer with an adaptive grip texture that take just a minute to get used to and the slide is billet machined with a Melonite finish. It has a hammer forged barrel, top slide serrations, includes a standard accessory rail for lights and lasers, a flat trigger body, reversible mag release and a loaded chamber indicator as another nice touch. I put a couple of magazines through it and here is my takeaway; the trigger allowed for a very consistent pull with minimal travel and the weight of the gun was comforting. I also love the ability for a micro compact to carry more rounds. That alone is worth some serious purchase consideration. The only issue I had was with muzzle flip, it seemed to travel a bit more than I expected. All in all, a solid little shooter that has an MSRP of $569 and I would expect to see it at retail in the area of $350. Don’t get me wrong; this is a great option for concealed carry but somehow, with all the buildup, I expected more.

The next one that I thought was worth writing about was, believe it or not, the Walther CCP (Concealed Carry Pistol) M2. The CCP and the Q4 were being touted equally, but I needed something worth getting worked up about and I found it with the CCP. I’ll start with the details and specs….the CCP is a 9mm and comes standard in a black finish but also has a stainless finish. The Walther CCP has a 3.54” barrel, an overall length of just under 6.5”, the height is just a smidge over 5”, width of about 1-1/4” and the has an 8+1 round capacity. Weighing in at 20oz, the weight is proportionate and feels just right. The CCP is the first polymer pistol with softcoil gas technology, which they assured me will not only help to reduce recoil, it will make racking the slide a breeze for absolutely anyone. They also claimed that it is the most comfortable handgun in their concealed carry line. Having a fixed barrel and offering tool-less takedown, it allows for very easy cleanup as well as maintenance. Also on the list of touted features: external safety, front and rear slide serrations and a reversible magazine release. Now for real-world testing: I already had grown a great comfort from holding it during the introduction and my hand felt an immediate and easy purchase on the grip. With the addition of the finger extender on the magazine, I felt right at home with it. I was surprised by just how comfortable it felt! Throwing rounds downrange was effortless; I felt like the gun was shooting itself, a feeling I have not encountered often enough. For me, the softcoil gas technology was the star of the show. It seemed like the muzzle never moved, allowing for time back on target to be extremely minimal. I honestly can’t say enough good about this gun. The lone caveat I have is that the travel was a bit longer than I had hoped for, but the reset was quick and with everything else going right, I felt like I had to find something wrong. The Walther CCP M2 is available for sale starting now, and you should expect to see it at retail for under $400-well worth every penny!

Thanks for reading; stay tuned as we will have more from SHOT Show 2020 as we explore the 12.5 miles of aisles looking for the new and exciting entries at this year’s show.

The post SHOT Show 2020 Industry Day at the Range Takeaways first appeared on On Duty Gear Police, Tactical and Fire Blog.

SRT Belt Features

• 500 denier laminated material
• “Celled” MOLLE fields for “belt over” accessory interface [holsters]
• Lumbar support with 4-way stretch
• 3D spacer mesh lining
• Suspender compatible
• Included rigors belt with COBRA® buckles by AUSTRIALPIN

The post Introducing the Armor Express SRT Padded Battle Belt first appeared on On Duty Gear Police, Tactical and Fire Blog.

The Busch/Armor Express helmet comes in 3 models:

Armor Express Busch AMP-1TP Level IIIA VPAM Ballistic Helmet

The AMP-1 TP is the First & Lightest Composite Helmet with VPAM Certification in the world. The AMP-1TP is certified to VPAM, which is the Gold Standard of ballistic testing within Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. Most Special Police units within Europe, including Germany’s GSG9 and SEK are required to have their ballistic helmets VPAM certified. Police Specialized units around the world deserve a level of protection that includes first-rate specifications (VPAM Standard). This standard, in comparison to the NIJ IIIA, tests certain ballistic aspects that are more relevant/specific to close quarter combat situations. Police special units/SWAT Teams, in comparison to soldiers, are more likely to suffer a ballistic head injury due to the nature of their work (Close Quarter Combat). Whereby, even today most helmets used by police armed response teams are helmets that are manufactured for military operations and may not provide the specific level of protection required by Law Enforcement officers dealing with armed insurgents in close quarters. Our unique rail-system and its Speed Connect System (SCS) gives the user even more tactical and modular protective capability. Our modular protective visors (Impact, Fragmentation, 9mm/44Mag), can be added/removed from the helmet within seconds, without ever having to take off the helmet – always being protected whilst still leaving the picatiny rail free for tactical devices. More recently we have increased the protective modular capabilities with our BAP-1 (AK47 Front plate), BAN-1/CAN-1 (Ballistic/Non-ballistic neck protection) and BAM – 1/CAM-1 (Ballistic/Non-ballistic mandible/Chin guard)

Armor Express Busch Protective AMP-1E Level IIIA Ballistic Helmet

The AMP-1 E specialized aramid shell is independently tested and certified at Chesapeake labs to NIJ IIIA (9mm and 44 Magnum), against fragmentation according to STANAG 2920 with a V50 rating of 2,230ft/s. The standard features include an advanced padding system, wheel-dial system, and unique rail system. These components ensure that comfort, practicality, and capability are provided, giving the user an added degree of confidence. The unique rail-system and its Speed Connect System (SCS) gives the user even more tactical and modular protective capability. Our modular protective visors (Impact, Fragmentation, 9mm/44Mag) can be added/removed from the helmet in seconds without ever having to take off the helmet – always being protected. More recently we have increased the protective modular capabilities with our BAN-1/CAN-1 (Ballistic/Non-ballistic neck protection), BAM – 1/CAM-1 (Ballistic/Non-ballistic mandible/Chin guard and our non-ballistic visors with the rubbers seal.

Armor Express Busch Protective AMH-2 BUMP Helmet

This non-ballistic platform is designed to offer a high level of impact protection, ventilation, and comfort, no matter what the task. The AMH-2 shell is certified to EN 397 for impact attenuation. This combined with our latest Comfort Protection Pad (CPP) suspension system offers both multi-impact & shock protection capability. This impact management system is further designed to offer good ventilation and comfort. The CPP system can be quickly adjusted, making it easy to tailor fit specific head shapes/sizes. Our retention system uses wheel dial technology which is easy to operate and provides a secure and snug fit. The operational capability is further increased with our new multi-function side rail which can accommodate various devices (cameras, strobes, etc) whilst also using visor capability. This unique rail system provides our Speed Connect System (SCS) where modular protective visor capability for varying threats can be added in seconds. The AMH-2 is designed with the user in mind, providing first rate modular protection, ventilation, and comfort for prolonged periods of use. Our most recent modular protective accessories include removable side plates to protect the ears, removable neck protection and blunt impact face shield visor with a rubber seal preventing fluid access. The ability to scale helmet protection up and down for the ever changing threat is now here. Whether you’re dealing with a riot situation/protesters, part of an emergency response team,  extracting prisoners or just riding around in an emergency response ambulance. The Busch PROtective AMH-2 will provide you with the ability scale your protection for the threat and much more!

The post Talking with Busch about their VPAM Armor Express Helmet first appeared on On Duty Gear Police, Tactical and Fire Blog.

The Danner Reckoning

FULL-GRAIN LEATHER & TEXTILE UPPER

For a highly abrasion resistant upper, we combine our premium full-grain leather with durable water repellent (DWR) treated nylon panels.

POLISHABLE TOE

The polishable synthetic leather on the toe area meets uniform requirements.

AIR MESH LINING

Breathable, moisture-wicking air mesh lining and ventilation technology for comfort in hot weather.

HARDWARE

Double rivet speed lacer for secure heel lock with lace-to-toe upper design for adjustable fit.

REMOVABLE OPEN CELL POLYURETHANE FOOTBED

Our polyurethane footbed provides superior shock absorption with an additional layer of open cell construction for improved air circulation.

DANNER® VIBRAM® ALL-TERRAIN (DAT) PLATFORM

This streamlined, lightweight platform features both Vibram midsole and outsole material compounds that were calibrated for shock absorption and comfort. The rubber outsole was engineered for high mileage durability. An omni-directional pentagonal outsole lug pattern gives superior traction from all different angles, double-bevel tread prevents debris from compacting in the outsole and the Arch Tech grip design provides traction and grip used for roping and climbing.

HOW IT FITS

The 851 last is an update to our popular 850 last. This last fits true to size with an athletic and supportive fit while providing ample room in the toe. Offering a specific heel shape that locks the heel in place for better fit and comfort on the back end of the boot, this supportive fit is ideal for those needing high mileage performance from their gear.

The post Looking at the Danner Reckoning Boots from the 2018 SHOT Show first appeared on On Duty Gear Police, Tactical and Fire Blog.

Bates E05143 Raide Mid (Olive Mojave)

• Oil, Stain and Abrasion Resistant Wolverine Warrior Leather and Performance Nylon Upper
• Moisture Wicking Lining
• X40 Ortholite Removable Cushioned Insert
• Stabilizing Molded TPU Heel Cup
• Lightweight Cushioned IMEVA Midsole
• Slip Resistant Rubber Outsole
• Strobel/Cement Construction

Bates E05146 Raide Mid Black

• Durable Leather and Performance Nylon Upper
• Moisture Wicking Lining
• X40 Ortholite Removable Cushioned Insert
• Stabilizing Modled TPU Heel Cup
• Lightweight Cushioned IMEVA Midsole
• Slip Resistant Rubber Outsole
• Strobel/Cement Construction

Bates E05148 Raide Waterproof Side Zip Black Boots

• Waterproof Full Grain Leather and Performance Nylon Upper
• Waterproof Membrane
• X40 Ortholite Removable Cushioned Insert
• YKK Side Zipper
• Stabilizing Molded TPU Heel Cup
• Lightweight Cushioned IMEVA Midsole
• Slip Resistant Rubber Outsole
• Strobel/Cement Construction

Bates E05150 Raide Hot Weather Side Zip Boots

• Durable Leather and Performance Nylon Upper
• Moisture Wicking Lining
• X40 Ortholite Removable Cushioned Insert
• YKK Side Zipper
• Stabilizing Molded TPU Heel Cup
• Lightweight Cushioned IMEVA Midsole
• Slip Resistant Rubber Outsole
• Strobel/Cement Construction

The post Bates Raide Boots at the 2018 SHOT Show first appeared on On Duty Gear Police, Tactical and Fire Blog.

Bates Siege 6″ Boots

Bates Siege 8″ Hot Weather Boots

Bates Siege 8″ Waterproof Boots

Bates Siege Sole

The post Bates Siege Boots from the 2018 SHOT Show first appeared on On Duty Gear Police, Tactical and Fire Blog.

Armor Express Hard Core H3

The Hard Core H3 exhibits lightweight, low profile architecture with fully adjustable shoulders and waist.It uses BRAVO cut panels which offer enhanced coverage and a more accurate fit. The H3 features the Dynamic Cummerbund System allowing the user to breathe and move much more efficiently. The shoulder strap geometry offers enhanced ergonomics and communication channeling. The H3 features the Quad Ventilation Liner (QVL) system for improved heat management and air circulation. The generous MOLLE design offers superior user customization. The Hard Core H3 accommodates Peraflex System pouches for streamlined loadouts.

Hard Core H3 Standard Features

• Top loading exterior accessible front and rear rifle plate pockets
• Quad Ventilation Liner (QVL) system
• Padded Dynamic Cummerbund
• Reinforced drag strap
• D tag attachment points
• Front kangaroo pouch
• Advanced shoulder pads
• Ambidextrous utility pockets
• Upper admin pocket

Hard Core H3 Optional Features

• Cummerbund soft armor inserts
• Ballistic shoulder pad inserts
• Peraflex System Pouches (see Lighthawk catalog for full Peraflex System Pouch listing)

The post Armor Express Hard Core H3 Body Armor Carrier from the 2018 SHOT Show first appeared on On Duty Gear Police, Tactical and Fire Blog.

New for Fall 2018, the Striker® Bolt takes everything the original Striker boot offered and combines it with an unrivaled comfort package featuring a Vibram® SPE midsole and the all-new Terra Force® NEXT platform. Also featuring a durable, polishable leather and nylon upper with waterproof, breathable GORE-TEX® lining, the new Striker Bolt combines technical features with ultimate comfort for long hours of wear.

Danner Striker Bolt Features:
• Durable, polishable leather and nylon upper
• GORE-TEX® lining for complete waterproof protection
• TERRA FORCE NEXT platform combines an internal and extermal shank system which helps
to provide arch support and torsion control
• Vibram® SPE midsole increases rebound and comfort without added weight
• Vibram® Striker Bolt outsole is slip-resistant and offers maximum surface contact and grip
on and off pavement
• Available in 4.5”, 6” and 8” heights
• Available in both men and women’s sizing
• MSRP: $179.95 – $219.95

The post The New Danner Striker Bolt at the 2018 SHOT Show first appeared on On Duty Gear Police, Tactical and Fire Blog.

Here is an interview we did with Mike Nelson from Streamlight earlier today:

The post Streamlight’s TLR-7 and TLR-8 Weaponlights at the 2018 SHOT Show first appeared on On Duty Gear Police, Tactical and Fire Blog.

In this video we talk to Mike Nelson from Streamlight about this new battery:

The post Streamlight’s New 18650 Rechargeable Lithium Battery from the 2018 SHOT Show first appeared on On Duty Gear Police, Tactical and Fire Blog.

The post Shooting the Walther PPQ SC and Q4 TAC at the 2018 SHOT Show Range Day first appeared on On Duty Gear Police, Tactical and Fire Blog.

The design changes are welcomed.  It feels as though they reworked the trigger to allow for a smoother and quicker reset which results in a great all-around feel.  The backstrap change-out is a breeze and the incorporation of the tool to assist with the take-down of the 19X is a great addition.

Here are some more photos we shot of the Glock 19X today at the range:

The post Shooting the Glock 19X at the 2018 SHOT Show first appeared on On Duty Gear Police, Tactical and Fire Blog.

When you say “Made in the USA”, naturally you get our attention.  This was the case when I received one of several media blasts from the 2018 SHOT Show that showcased Gatorz Eyewear.  Intrigued, I followed up and requested additional information.  The response was swift, even allowing for an opportunity to interview Gatorz Eyewear Brand Manager Andrew Fontes, whom has been with Gatorz for 10 years, having previously served as their outside sales rep, regional manager and global sales and marketing manager.

In the days leading up to the 2018 SHOT Show Industry Day at the Range, I did my due diligence and began to research Gatorz.  I quickly found out that they are no stranger to the scene; in fact, they have been around since 1989.  Headquartered in Carlsbad, California, GATORZ Eyewear is the preferred eyewear of U.S. Military Elite Special Force Groups, law enforcement personnel, skydivers, functional fitness athletes, action sports fans and outdoor enthusiasts worldwide.  This first of its kind, American made aluminum sunglass has become a staple of the communities it serves, with its lightweight, durable frames and superior optics.  It all started with an idea to develop the best sunglasses on the planet by using military grade 7075 aluminum. They are then molded around 2.0 mm polycarbonate lenses that offer 100% UV protection.

On this date, Gatorz made the announcement that they are ready to release the new Magnum Z, which is the first sunglass in their line to meet the vaunted ANSI Z87+ rating.  Using the very same T-6 grade aircraft aluminum that the US Government uses in their military aircraft Gatorz created a frame which passed the ANSI Z87.1-2010 Impact Resistance Test.  Gatorz then paired that frame with a very unique tension mounted lens that not only blocks 100% of the UV rays and is distortion free, it also is capable of withstanding the impact of 12 gauge buckshot fired from a distance of 45 feet!  The finishing touch is a nosepiece made out of silicone, so it will not yellow after repeated exposure to the sun.  It also contains a thin metal insert, which allows it to be adjusted to fit any nose.

We were afforded an opportunity to spend the day with a set of Gatorz, and boy, did we ever.  We anxiously donned our new specs and after the initial awe about how lightweight and how remarkably low-profile they were, we set off to do what we came to do:  shoot guns, and lots of them.  Now, when I say lightweight, I mean so light that you forget you were wearing them!  It was when we arrived at the first of several stops along our route and prepared to head to the line that I realized I had already forgotten they were on.  When I wear “eyes” at the range, I usually either have to adjust my shooting glasses around my muffs, or not wear the muffs at all, having to opt for those foam ear plugs that just don’t work as good as my earmuffs.  I was pleasantly surprised when I donned the muffs and there was absolutely no adjusting needed!  They fit perfectly fine over the Gatorz, allowing for trouble free prep prior to stepping up to the line.  Thankfully, we didn’t have to try out the impact resistance, but after a full day’s use, I can confidently say that I could truly trust those Magnums to protect my eyes.  That’s probably the best part of this whole story; knowing that we finally have a domestically made line of eyewear that is known and trusted in our industries and that continues to up their game.  Did I mention they were made in the USA?

Here is the release from GATORZ:

January 22, 2018 (Las Vegas, Nevada) – Today, GATORZ Eyewear is proud to announce the release of its Magnum Z, an American made aluminum sunglass meeting the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) Z87+ rating. GATORZ, the preferred eyewear of U.S. Military Elite Special Force Groups, Law Enforcement personnel, Skydivers, functional fitness athletes, action sports fans and outdoor enthusiasts, underwent intensive testing with the Magnum Z that offers superior optics coupled with high-velocity impact lenses.

“We are excited to have met the Z87+ standard for our Magnum Z sunglasses and providing consumers with the safety and security guaranteed to support an action-packed lifestyle,” said Andrew Fontes, Brand Manager at GATORZ Eyewear. “It all started with the idea of developing the best sunglasses on the planet for military and law enforcement personnel, first-responders and action sports enthusiasts by using the highest-grade materials available. They’ve become a staple the elite seek out for their lightweight and durable frames, superior optics and we are confident in knowing they’ll get the value they searched to find.”

The post GATORZ New Magnum Z Ballistic Rated Eyewear from the 2018 SHOT Show first appeared on On Duty Gear Police, Tactical and Fire Blog.