Hogue has added a couple of new models to their line of slip on rubber pistol grips: the HandALL for SIG P365-XMacro and Taurus GX4 and XL handguns.
The manufacturer says,
“Continuing the expansion of Hogue’s HandALL grip sleeve line, models are now available for the SIG SAUER P365-XMACRO and the Taurus GX4 & GX4XL. The Advantages of Houge Beavertail grip sleeves are evident upon installation.
Perceived recoil is significantly reduced by Hogue’s renowned ultra-soft rubber. The Beavertail feature provides added protection for the purlicue of the hand, and the finger grooves allow consistent grasp and secure hold.
While it has become common for shooters to resort to stippling to upgrade the factory texture of polymer pistols, this practice ultimately compromises the original condition of the firearm’s frame. To avoid this irreversible trade-off, Hogue has perfected their Beavertail grip sleeve design to ensure a long-lasting, yet non-permanent alternative that will greatly enhance the shooters’ grip experience.“
Hogue Slip On Rubber Pistol Grips
P365-XMACRO / Taurus GX4 HoldALL
Production sleeves for both pistol and rifle grips have been around for a very long time. Although the increasing popularity of grip stippling has grown significantly there a huge market for them. One of the biggest groups of users is those who don’t want to (or who are forbidden to by policy) alter the original factory condition of their pistol frame; at least not permanently. Hogue Grips are a good, reversible way to achieve grip modification to someone’s preferred level of texture.
A grip sleeve is intended to do more than mitigate the drawbacks of some weapons’ geometry and texture. They are usually designed to provide some specific advantages (see below for more detail).
Grip sleeves also have other advantages. Most are not easily quantifiable, and not everyone will agree with them, but as long as people continue to use them we’ll know they have something to ovver.
The most significant advantage is that of an improved, more comfortable and effective grip by the master hand. This can be broken down into some specific points:
Finger grooves are intended to position fingers for optimal grip (though admittedly “one size fits all”)
Texture for maintaining a grip in slick conditions
Beavertail to protect the shooting hand purlicue (that’s the stretch between the thumb and index finger)
Softer material for grip = more comfort
Color palette available to match or contrast a weapon’s finish
Known for its unwavering reliability, user-friendly nature, and pinpoint accuracy, the Glock 17 Gen 5 has become a staple among firearm enthusiasts. While it’s an excellent gun as-is, there are always opportunities to boost its performance and accuracy through upgrades. The barrel, a critical component in any handgun, influences the bullet’s trajectory upon leaving the firearm. By upgrading the Glock 17 Gen 5’s barrel, you can significantly enhance its performance and accuracy.
5 Benefits of Upgrading Your Barrel
Upgrading the barrel of your Glock 17 Gen 5 can offer a range of benefits that can improve its performance and enhance your shooting experience. Here are some of the top benefits you can expect:
Improved accuracy: One of the most significant benefits of upgrading your Glock 17 Gen 5 barrel is improved accuracy. A high-quality barrel will have a tighter bore and more precise rifling, which can help stabilize the bullet and keep it on target. This can be especially beneficial if you’re using your Glock 17 Gen 5 for competitive shooting or self-defense purposes, where accuracy is critical.
Increased range: Another advantage of upgrading your Glock 17 Gen 5 barrel is increased range. A high-quality barrel can improve the bullet’s velocity, allowing it to travel further and hit targets at longer distances. This can be particularly useful for outdoor shooting or hunting.
Enhanced safety features: Some aftermarket barrels for the Glock 17 Gen 5 may come with enhanced safety features, such as improved feed ramps or a tighter chamber. These safety features can improve reliability and reduce the risk of malfunctions or misfires.
Increased Reliability: Aftermarket barrels are often made with higher-quality materials than stock barrels, such as stainless steel or titanium. These materials can be more durable and resistant to wear and tear than a stock barrel, reducing the risk of failure or malfunction. Also, most aftermarket barrels are precision-machined to tighter tolerances, which makes the fit and function more consistent.
Ammunition Compatibility: Another factor that can contribute to increased reliability is the ability of aftermarket barrels to shoot a wider range of ammunition types. The stock barrel of the Glock 17 Gen 5 is designed to handle a specific type of ammunition, and using different types can sometimes lead to jams or malfunctions. However, many aftermarket barrels are designed to handle a wider variety of ammunition types, making them more versatile and reliable in a wider range of situations.
Glock 17 Gen 5 Barrel Differences
The Glock 17 Gen 5 features a switch to Glock 19 locking geometry.
While the Gen 4 and Gen 5 19 barrels have different geometries, the Gen 5 barrels do away with the slope at the barrel hood and instead go to the simple right angles that the 17/34 have always had, similar to most G19 Gen 1-4 aftermarket barrels.
Due to the shared locking block, a Gen 5 17 barrel can theoretically be used in a Gen 5 19.
However, it’s important to note that Gen 1-4 17 barrels are not compatible with a Gen 5 17.
Even though Glock improved the Glock 17 Gen 5 OEM barrels to make them more accurate (hence the name “Marksman Barrel”), there is still room for improvement.
Popular Glock 17 Gen 5 Barrel Options | Faxon Firearms
The optimized match barrels from Faxon Firearms have been redesigned to work better and with Gen 5 guns.
These Glock 17 Gen 5 barrels have been redesigned for improved performance and Gen 5 compatibility. A recessed target crown, a new match chamber, and a stylized barrel hood with engravings for caliber and model are some of the new features.
The proprietary broach-cut 1 in 14” left-hand twist rifling was developed to create the most accurate Glock aftermarket barrel available, and testing confirms a significant increase in accuracy over factory barrels in all standard bullet weights.
Manufactured from 416R stainless steel, which is an ideal material for making match-grade barrels because the material allows for the precise cutting of chambers and rifling, which results in a more accurate barrel.
Glock 17 Gen 5 Barrel Specs
Handgun Type: G17 Gen 5
Barrel Caliber: 9mm
Barrel Profile: Flame Fluted, Drop In (Compatible with Gen 5)
Tighter Tolerances – A Drop In barrel with better fitment and a tighter lock-up than competing brands.
Conventional Rifling – Fully compatible with cast lead bullets.
11° Target Crown – This preserves and protects accuracy.
Glock17 Gen 5 Threaded Barrel and Compensator
The threaded barrel and compensator work together to enhance the accuracy and stability of the Glock 17 Gen 5. The compensator shown here for the Glock 17 Gen 5 called EXOS has a unique design with an angled front port and a single chamber.
This design helps to decrease the movement of the muzzle by reducing both the upward and sideward recoil, resulting in improved accuracy from shot to shot.
Muzzle flip reduction is baked into the DNA of Faxon EXOS compensators.
Upgrading your Glock 17 Gen 5 barrel can be a game changer for anyone who wants to take their firearm’s performance to the next level.
With improved accuracy, increased range, reduced recoil and muzzle rise, enhanced safety features, and increased reliability, the benefits of upgrading your barrel are undeniable.
With the right barrel, you can unlock your firearm’s full potential and take your skills to the next level.
SilencerCo is on a mission. A mission to do it better. Do what better? Good question. Let’s look at that. First and foremost, SilencerCo strives to make better suppressors and suppressor accessories. That’s fine, but one could easily say the same for many companies that make quality products. What matters here is how SilencerCo does it.
SilencerCo lives by what they call “The Three Ps,” People, Passion, and Precision. The Three Ps are the road map to accomplish their mission of doing it better. Let’s break down how that philosophy works.
People
We often hear companies say that they put the customer first. A common customer service maxim says that “the customer is always right,” even though any honest person knows that’s untrue. SilencerCo takes a somewhat different approach to outstanding customer service: they put their employees first.
The idea is that happy employees, people who genuinely like, or even love, their jobs, will strive to do their best every day. That means better, more consistent product lines, more innovation, faster, friendlier service, and a great experience for everyone involved. In short, people who take pride in their work want to do things the right way. Everyone wins. That’s what SilencerCo aims for every day.
So, how do they do that? After all, a job is a job, and most folks would rather be doing other things. We’ve all been there. SilencerCo recognizes all that but continues to take steps toward improving their employees’ experience. Let’s look at a few of those.
Automation
SilencerCo is investing heavily in robotics to aid the manufacturing process. Usually, automation means real people lose their jobs because they’ve been replaced. Not so at SilencerCo. Founder and CEO Jonathan Shults told us that “By introducing higher levels of automation into our production processes we are creating greater efficiency for our company and more enjoyable jobs for our employees. We are automating the parts of manufacturing that are mundane and tedious. Employees will work in conjunction with these new automations in a way that allows them to spend more time on creative and high-level tasks.”
SilencerCo is investing in robotics to free their employees from tedious tasks, not to replace them. (Author’s photo)
SilencerCo is investing in robotics to free their employees from tedious tasks, not to replace them. (Author’s photo)
This shift has been augmented by training SilencerCo’s employees to monitor the robots doing the tedious jobs they used to do themselves. The employees gain new skills and quality control gets a boost because of the constant human monitoring of the new machines. The company has invested so heavily that the production floor is being rearranged to accommodate the new processes. But not one employee has lost their job because of it, and Shults says that none will. Better, more precise machines, coupled with better-skilled employees whose jobs are less tedious means superior products and happier customers.
Time
Shults likes to say that “Time is time. Time is not money.” Time is the one resource we all have that cannot be replaced or made up. Once it’s gone, it’s gone for good. “You cannot put a price tag on time,” Shults said when asked about the subject. “It has so much more value than any amount someone can pay you. These new automations will give that valuable time back to our employees and our company, freeing up space to focus on growth and innovation.”
Automation frees up time for SilencerCo employees to be more creative and in control of the production process. (Author’s Photo)
Automation frees up time for SilencerCo employees to be more creative and in control of the production process. (Author’s Photo)
SilencerCo is leveraging that regained time to understand not only how to make better products, but how the machines that make them can be improved. Shults told us that all the best machine tools are currently made in Japan, and that SilencerCo only buys from those companies. But thanks to Shults’ emphasis on giving his employees their time back, the company has begun designing and building its own machines as well. Shults told us that designing those machines provides insights into how they can be improved and tailored to SilencerCo’s products, resulting in even better output as the SilencerCo team learns and improves. Some of those in-house machines are already online on the production floor.
Dogs Are Welcome!
This was our second visit to SilencerCo, and both times we noticed the dogs. Dogs in the offices. Dogs in the hallways. Dogs on the production floor. How many companies not only allow you bring your dog to work, but actively encourage it? We’d bet that SilencerCo is one of a very few.
We met this good boy in SilencerCo’s hallway. His name is Blue.” (Author’s Photo)
We met this good boy in SilencerCo’s hallway. His name is Blue.” (Author’s Photo)
Obviously, not everyone is a dog person, but for those of us who are, that sounds like a great deal. And it goes back to employee well-being. Shults told us that “We love having a dog-friendly environment. It lowers stress levels and creates a fun space where people want to come to work. Our dogs are really part of our team!” He was excited about it. We get it. We were excited about it. The company even has a “Dog Station” with supplies folks might need for their canine pals. Good stuff.
Passion
We quickly noticed that the Three Ps, People, Passion, and Precision, overlap in many places. People who like their jobs find it easier to be passionate about what they do. That passion translates into quality work, quality products, and quality service.
But SilencerCo isn’t just passionate about suppressors and their accessories. A giant American flag hangs conspicuously over the production floor. Monthly “All Hands” meetings are held directly underneath that flag. Each meeting starts with the Pledge of Allegiance.
(Author’s photo)
And it’s not just lip service. Shults and SilencerCo take that attitude seriously. “We source almost all of our materials within the United States and are working toward having everything 100 percent sourced in America,” he told us proudly. “We want our business to support Americans on all levels: through the products that we sell and through the methods [by which] these products are made.” He added that SilencerCo is currently the only suppressor company to do so.
The machinery and robotics investments also reflect the company’s ideals. SilencerCo has long been the only suppressor company to manufacture all their products in-house, from start to finish. Shults showed us the bar stock and other components that go into SilencerCo products. When asked why this vertical integration was important, Shults told us that “By manufacturing our products in-house, we are actively bringing more jobs to the people of Utah. It also gives us the ability to control our products and thereby ensures that customers are receiving the very best that we can produce.” Which brings us to…
Precision
It’s not hard to see how SilencerCo’s focus on People and Passion leads to the final “P,” Precision. The company’s people continue to perform at higher levels, generating more passion and pride in what they do. The dogs no doubt play a vital role here too, because dogs just make everything better.
SilencerCo has long been regarded as a leader in the suppressor industry, with products like the Saker, Omega, Chimera, and Harvester series, among others. They are continuing that legacy with the new Velos Low Back Pressure suppressor designed specifically for the 5.56 NATO/.223 Remington cartridges.
The new Velos LBP is specifically designed for the 5.56 cartridge. (SilencerCo Photo)
The new Velos LBP is specifically designed for the 5.56 cartridge. (SilencerCo Photo)
The Velos LPB takes advantage of SilencerCo’s technology and people investments to make the most durable suppressor the company has ever made, thanks, in part, to the brand new patented Hoplon Blast Baffle. The Hoplon Baffle deflects debris and increases the suppressor’s lifespan on short-barreled rifles and full-auto firearms. It handles a standard-length semi-auto rifle with ease. The Velos LBP measures only 5.98 inches long and weighs 15.2 ounces.
Another innovation is the 3D-printed Inconel 635 core which is fully welded to the 17-4 stainless steel front and rear modules. The Velos LBP delivers an impressive 137.1 decibels at the muzzle of a 16-inch barreled AR-15. Just for reference, 140 decibels is considered hearing safe.
The Velos LBP features V-Series Cerakote to ensure the finish holds up to hard use. The new suppressor is compatible with the already popular SilencerCo Charlie accessories and has no barrel length restrictions. It ships with the brand-new Internal Charlie Flash Hider Front Cap, Charlie ASR Mount, ASR Flash Hider in ½ x 28, a spanner wrench, and a Charlie tool. Coupled with SilencerCo’s Gas Defeating Charging Handle, the Velos LBP may be the top AR-15 suppressor available today.
Precision Service
As always, SilencerCo backs up its products with perhaps the industry’s best warranty. Shults laughingly told us that he believes so strongly in supporting SilencerCo’s products that they’ve gone so far as to say “We’ll fix stupid once.”
SilencerCo Founder and CEO Jonathan Shults. (Author’s Photo)
SilencerCo Founder and CEO Jonathan Shults. (Author’s Photo)
When we pressed him on this he said “Being a consumer myself, I’ve experienced frustrations after purchasing a product and the manufacturer failing to provide support. That’s why providing top notch customer service and support is so important to me and why we focus so heavily on customer service and warranty…Our warranty department is in-house, and we maintain an average 48-hour turnaround time on suppressor warranty or service requests.”
So, the Three Ps come full circle back to People, with those People being SilencerCo’s customers. We admit that Shults’ confidence is contagious. It’s difficult to visit with him at SilencerCo and not feel that positive energy.
A Bright Future
SilencerCo’s investments in new machine tools, robotics, and processes are ultimately investments in their people, as we’ve noted. Such efforts rarely go unrewarded, and SilencerCo’s path forward appears surer than ever.
SilencerCo is looking to the future. And the future is now. (SilencerCo photo)
SilencerCo is looking to the future. And the future is now. (SilencerCo photo)
Employees who feel valued are more likely to take pride in their work. We once saw pride, as used in this instance, defined as “always doing your best, even when no one is watching.” Jonathan Shults and SilencerCo are building that kind of environment, which benefits not only the company and its employees, but the end user as well.
Some of the best advice we ever received regarding firearms and accessories was to “buy from companies who give a damn about their customers.” After spending time with Shults and other SilencerCo folks like Shauna Young, Caleb Gosnell, Cody Wootton, and Jace LeRoy, we’re convinced that SilencerCo is one of those companies.
But that’s always been the plan. Shults and his partner Josh Waldron started SilencerCo in a garage because they thought they could “do it better.” Fifteen years later, that small business with a simple but big dream is a reality. SilencerCo does it better than, or at least as well as, anyone else. But they aren’t waiting around for anyone else to catch up.
Hard Head Veterans, a veteran-owned and operated helmet manufacturing company, has announced the launch of its newest product, the ATE Lite ballistic helmet.
Proudly made at their facility in Sweetwater, Texas, by the very men and women who have worn helmets into combat, the helmet is designed for military, law enforcement, and patriots of this great nation.
The ATE Lite is an excellent example of Hard Head Veterans’ mission to protect our protectors, as it offers great protection while being ultra-lightweight.
The helmet is made from a hybrid blend of UHMWPE and Aramid and has a shell weight of 1.6 pounds, with a total system weight of 2.3 pounds in the medium size.
The ATE Lite is a perfect blend of performance and comfort, making it ideal for extended use.
Hard Head Veterans is dedicated to producing gear that performs in real-world situations.
That’s why the ATE Lite was put to the test at the National Technical Systems Testing Lab, the leading independent testing lab for personal protective gear.
Level 3a Ballistic Helmet
The helmet consistently hit single-digit ballistic transient deformation numbers in the single-digit range with an average of 8.27mm at 1400 fps (9mm Testing Data).
Furthermore, the ATE Lite has been thoroughly tested against .40 and .45ACP, with deformation numbers still far below the 24mm required for 9mm (.40 and .45 ACP Testing Data).
FBI casualty data tells us that these three calibers account for the majority of handgun threats in the US.
While many manufacturers are moving away from BFD (backface deformation) testing, even new standards such as ASTM WK70812 make this testing optional.
What is Backface Deformation?
Backface deformation is the term used to describe the indentation on the backside of a plate or helmet caused by a bullet being stopped and prevented from penetrating the body.
When a person is shot, the backface of the helmet is deformed. The degree of deformation is a crucial factor to consider since greater deformation results in more severe trauma.
UHMWPE, one of the materials HHV uses for its ballistic helmets, works by using high-modulus fibers with unusually strong tensile strength. When compared to other technologies, these fibers prevent or cause less backface deformation. This means that the bullet’s energy is diffused and spread out much more effectively.
Hard Head Veterans helmets have always been designed with limiting BFD at the forefront, and we will continue to do so.
The ATE Lite has also been tested to the NIJ IIIA standards and is rated to stop .44 magnum in resistance to penetration tests.
MicroLattice Ballistic Helmet Pads
HHV’s MicroLattice Pads not only play an important role with BFD and blunt impact mitigation but provide unparalleled comfort and support in the ATE Lite.
Conforming the helmet naturally to each individual’s skull shape while maximizing airflow inside of the helmet.
The ATE Lite also features Hard Head Veterans’ signature A3S Lite shroud, one of the lightest helmet shrouds on the market, weighing only 32 grams. This night vision retention shroud features rubber inserts and machined aerospace aluminum inserts that prevent movement on most common mounts.
In addition to this, the ATE Lite comes standard with our patented SnapBack Retention system, which is a set-it-and-forget-it alternative to dial-type retention systems that have failure-prone mechanical parts.
With a price tag of $978.99, the ATE Lite ballistic helmet is an excellent value for those looking for a premium, American-made ballistic helmet.
Hard Head Veterans is proud to offer a growing list of protective products and to employ a growing number of American veterans to make them.
Focusing on customer feedback, they have also decided to make the shell itself available for purchase as a stand-alone product for $764.00.
This will allow end-users to plug and play with various helmet accessories from other manufacturers to get the very best helmet setup for their personal needs and mission set.
Firearms technology is ever-evolving. Companies who ignore the adage “innovate or die,” rarely remain relevant, if they survive at all. Suppressor companies, as a subset of the firearms industry, face the same challenge. As suppressors grow more popular, companies must stay on or near the leading edge to compete. On a recent visit to SilencerCo, we saw what that company is doing not only to stay on the edge, but to drive it forward.
We spent time with SilencerCo Founder and CEO Jonathan Shults, Public Relations Specialist Shauna Young, and Marketing guys Caleb Gosnell and Cody Wootton. Along the way, we saw how SilencerCo is revamping its production facility and processes, looked at some new products, and did some live fire on the company’s indoor test range.
Changing For the Better
SilencerCo Founder and CEO Jonathan Shults gave us a personal tour. (Author’s Photo)
We were a bit surprised when Shults himself conducted the facility tour, but who better to brief us on everything that’s happening? Being an engineer, the focus quickly turned to SilencerCo’s investments in automation. Tedious jobs like sorting are being phased out. Robots now do that. But before you decry the employee losing his job, that’s not how it works. Not at SilencerCo, anyway.
The robots do replace the human doing mundane jobs, but that human is now trained to oversee the robot, making certain it’s performing as intended. Shults told us that “By introducing higher levels of automation…we are creating greater efficiency for our company and more enjoyable jobs for our employees.” Shults wants the automation to allow his people “to spend more time on creative and high-level tasks.”
The new robots relieve employees from mundane jobs and let them focus on higher tasks. (Author’s Photo)
Shults also noted that “Time is time. Time is not money.” When we asked what he meant by that, he responded that “You cannot put a price tag on time. It has so much more value than any amount someone can pay you. These new automations will give that valuable time back to our employees and our company, freeing up the space to focus on growth and innovation.”
Shults stressed that no one has lost their job to a machine, nor will they. We expect that such investments, coupled with the right motivation, greatly benefit employee morale. And we know that happy employees do superior work. Sounds like a winning formula.
New and Better Products
The new robots and machine tools have given the company the time and incentive to examine how and why top-quality machines perform well. Company engineers have begun building their own machine tools tailored for their products. In the process, they gain insights into how future products can and should be designed to maximize the machines’ capabilities, opening up new innovative avenues.
One of those new products is the Velos Low Back Pressure suppressor designed specifically for the 5.56 NATO and .223 Remington cartridges. Shults told us the Velos LBP is the most durable suppressor SilencerCo has ever built. When we pressed him on that claim, he enthusiastically told us about the new patented Hoplon Blast Baffle, which deflects debris and is specially designed to extend the suppressor’s life, even on short-barreled rifles and with fully automatic fire.
The new Velos LBP is designed for the 5.56 NATO and .223 Remington Cartridges. (SilencerCo Photo)
But that’s not the Velos’ only innovation. The 3D printed Inconel 625 core is fully welded to the 17-4 stainless steel front and rear modules using a unique manufacturing process that we aren’t qualified to describe. Suffice it to say that’s pretty awesome, as we found out when we shot it later that day. Plus, the V-Series Cerakote means the finish will hold up for a long time. But let’s take a look at the specs:
SilencerCo Velos Low Back Pressure Suppressor
– Length: 5.98 inches
– Weight: 15.2 ounces
– Decibels at the Muzzle: 137.1 dB
– Caliber: 5.56 NATO/.223 Remington
– Full Auto Rated
– No Barrel Length Restrictions
– 17-4 Stainless Steel with a 3D Printed Inconel Core
– Finish: V-Series Cerakote (Black)
– Compatible with SilencerCo Charlie Accessories
The Velos LBP suppressor ships with the brand-new Charlie Flash Hider Front Cap, Charlie ASR Mount, ASR Flash Hider in ½ x 28, spanner wrench, and Charlie Tool.
We were able to try out the Velos LBP on several platforms at the indoor range. It was a real pleasure to shoot. Being indoors, we used ear pro, but it was still noticeably quiet. It almost seems wimpy to say it tamed the recoil a bit, being 5.56, but it did. And the gas was reduced too, as one would expect from the name. When we coupled it with the SilencerCo Gas Defeating Charging Handle, there seemed to be no gas at all.
The FightLite Dual Feed was our favorite way to test the Velos LBP suppressor. (SilencerCo Photo)
The Velos was fun all around but, unsurprisingly, we enjoyed the FightLite Industries Dual Feed AR the most. Seriously, what’s not to like about that combo? That the range time was the highlight of the day should not shock anyone either. It was a good time. If you’re looking for a dedicated suppressor for your AR-15, you might want to give the Velos LBP a hard look.
The Dogs
We would be remiss if we didn’t mention the good boys and girls that we saw around the SilencerCo facility. Seriously. The company encourages their employees to bring their dogs to work. Talk about a morale booster. They weren’t on the range, for obvious reasons, but we saw them in the offices, hallways, and even the production floor, which isn’t particularly loud. It just made everything better. Shults said, enthusiastically, that “Our dogs are really part of our team!”
This good boy’s name is Blue. We met him in a SilencerCo hallway on the way to the production floor. (Author’s Photo)
Doing Everything at Home
By “at home,” we mean that SilencerCo sources almost all their materials from the United States and is “working toward having everything 100 percent sourced in America,” according to Shults. “We want our business to support Americans on all levels: through the products that we sell and through the methods these products are made.”
The company is also as vertically integrated as it can be, doing all the manufacturing work in-house, the only suppressor company to do so. Shults told us that was important to him because it brings jobs to the people of Utah while giving the company “the ability to control our products and thereby ensures that customers are receiving the very best that we can produce.”
Those attitudes aren’t just lip service. Both times we’ve visited SilencerCo we’ve noticed the huge American flag hanging prominently above the production floor. Monthly “all hands” meetings are held under the flags, with each meeting opening with the Pledge of Allegiance.” Good stuff.
This large American flag hangs prominently over the SilencerCo production floor. (Author’s Photo)
Quality Service
Shults also emphasized the importance of customer service. After all, a company that doesn’t support its products and its customers won’t stay around long. The SilencerCo warranty department is also in-house, and Shults says they usually turn warranty work around in 48 hours. He takes his company’s warranty so seriously that he laughingly told us that SilencerCo would even “fix stupid once.” We liked that.
Of course, in a perfect world, warranties would be unnecessary, and we’ve heard folks disparage companies who offer them by saying they shouldn’t have to do so. But that’s just unrealistic and such bombastic comments aren’t helpful. The fact that good companies support their products is encouraging.
Looking Ahead
Shults’ enthusiasm for SilencerCo’s direction is contagious. But it wasn’t just him. The other folks we interacted with had the same energy. The employees on the production floor were focused and quite friendly when we asked them questions. Now, you could say that was because the boss was right there with us, but we should note that the boss was on an easy first name basis with everyone too. That’s a good sign.
That SilencerCo’s efforts to improve the experience and skills of their workers is a good thing seems unarguable. Happy employees take pride in their work and everyone benefits, including the end user of SilencerCo products.
Automation allows SilencerCo’s employees time for creativity and attention to detail. (Author’s Photo)
A firearms instructor once told us to buy and use products from companies “who give a damn about their customers.” It looks like Shults is fostering that kind of environment at SilencerCo. The company started fifteen years ago in a garage. Now it’s an industry leader. They must be doing something right.
Choosing the appropriate AR15 barrel profile is one of the most important decisions to make when building or customizing an AR-15. The shape and size of the barrel, as determined by the profile, can greatly affect the performance and functionality of the firearm.
Let’s take a look at the different AR-15 barrel profiles available and help you understand the pros and cons of each so you can make an informed decision. From heavier barrel profiles to lightweight pencil barrel profiles, we’ll cover it all.
Whether you’re a competitive shooter, a hunter, or just a hobbyist, this guide will help you choose the perfect barrel profile for your specific needs and goals.
AR Barrel Profiles Explained
The term “barrel profile” refers to the thickness of a barrel on an AR-15 style rifle, such as the Faxon Sentry 16” 5.56 Rifle. Different barrel profiles can impact the performance of the gun in various ways.
For instance, thinner barrels are lightweight and easy to handle, while thicker barrels provide more stability by adding weight to the front of the gun and can withstand more heat.
It’s essential to consider the trade-offs of different barrel options available in the market when making a choice.
Let’s now look at the different AR-15 barrel profiles to see what makes each one unique.
Gunner Profile
The Gunner profile is a blend of two of the best-performing profiles of all time, Gov’t and Pencil.
Faxon’s Gunner profile combines the durability of the Gov’t profile with the weight savings and maneuverability of the Pencil profile.
The Gunner profile brings the rifle’s balance back towards the shooter’s body, limiting fatigue and allowing for shooting, training, or hunting all day long.
Government/SOCOM Profile
A SOCOM barrel for an AR-15 is designed differently from the standard M4/A2 barrel.
Instead of being consistently thick throughout, it has a thinner section past the gas block and a thicker section near the chamber. In addition, SOCOM barrels often have a slot for attaching a grenade launcher and provide a balance between strength and weight.
If you’re looking for a barrel that can handle sustained shooting while still being lightweight, a SOCOM profile barrel may be a good option for you.
Pencil Profile
The pencil barrel is the original profile for the AR-15, typically measuring 0.625 inches in diameter.
It is known for being slim and lightweight, making it easy to carry and handle. However, due to its thinness, it may overheat more quickly during rapid firing, leading to elastic deformation or warping, which can affect reliability and accuracy.
Unlike run-of-the-mill pencil barrels, Faxon Firearms barrels are properly heat-treated and stress-relieved to improve heat resistance and longevity.
The durability of this AR15 barrel profile is ideal for shooters with a light or medium shooting schedule.
AR Barrel Profiles: Finding Your Match
The barrel profile of anAR-15 rifle can greatly affect its overall performance and handling.
The three most common barrel profiles are the Gunner, Government, and Pencil. The Government/SOCOM profile is the thickest and heaviest option, providing the most stability and accuracy but also adding extra weight to the rifle.
The pencil profile is the thinnest and lightest option, making it easier to handle and carry, but sacrificing some stability and accuracy. The government profile is a balance between the two, offering a good compromise between weight and performance.
Ultimately, the choice of barrel profile will depend on the individual’s personal preferences and intended use of the rifle. Therefore, it is important to consider the trade-offs and choose the barrel profile that best suits your needs.
One of the more interesting rifle-related things unveiled at SHOT Show 2023 was also one of the most interesting Foxtrot Mike products available yet: an AK AR hybrid called the Mike-102. The Foxtrot Mike Mike-102 is a hybrid AR 15 and AK 47 rifle with some HK influences forged in. That may or may not appeal to some folks, but you can bet it will to many others.
Why? Because we can. ‘Merica.
Foxtrot Mike Products: the Mike-102
AK AR HK Hybrid?
The FM Mike-102 is an AR15 platform chambered in .223 Wylde that feeds from AK magazines. It utilizes the Foxtrot Mike compact DI system, features a folding stock, and sports an HK-style forward charging handle.
This is an intriguing combination that provides AR handling, the use of rock-and-lock AK mags, and the option of using the “HK slap” to drop the bolt.
Maybe we’re shallow, but we like that.
Here are some other FM Mike-102 things to know:
• Production testing was at least partially conducted during KalashBash and Red Oktober.
• It’s a bufferless system (i.e., no buffer nor no buffer tube).
• Some have a non-reciprocating side charging handle; others have the “slap mod”.
• The “slap mod variant” echoes HK charging handles.
• You can lock the bolt to the rear.
• It takes AK102 compatible magazines in 5.56×45
• Will be available in sizes ranging from a 9-inch pistol all the way up to a 16-inch rifle.
• A 13.9 pin and weld model will be inbound soon.
• So will a 7.62x39mm version.
Via Atlantic Firearms
Foxtrot Mike describes the Mike-102 as a “…modern AK-Hybrid, designed for the modern shooter to use a wide variety of AK 5.56/223 magazines and offer the familiar Rock N Lock magwell. The 102 is lightweight, accurate, and modular, much like an AR-15, but with the added benefit of using most AK magazines. It uses a simple direct impingement operating system that is simple and reliable.”
Two industry giants have come together to create something truly special. Revision Military, a leading producer of protective eyewear, has spent years developing best-in-class ballistic protective lenses. At the same time, Fast Metal and its founder have been working on premium made-in-USA aluminum sunglasses. And now, they’re ready to reveal their latest collaboration to the world. Let’s turn to the official press release to see what the companies have to announce.
Making a Perfect Pair
Revision Military, a leading producer of protective eyewear, has spent years developing best-in-class ballistic protective lenses. Similarly, Fast Metal and its founder have spent that time developing premium made-in-USA aluminum sunglasses. With this collaboration announcement, the two companies have combined what they are truly experts in to create the Revision Speed Demon metal sunglasses with Revision’s new I-Vis lens technology. These sunglasses bring together state-of-the-art lens technology with a sleek, stylish frame.
Fast Metal was built on over 35 years of experience in manufacturing the highest quality metal sunglasses by its founder, Ken Wilson. As the pioneer of the aluminum sunglass industry, Ken created the first patented 27-step procedure for manufacturing high-quality aluminum frames. Today, Fast Metal is proud to offer the world’s first and best aluminum sunglass and eyewear protection system featuring field-replaceable lenses.
This is an example of the I-Vis Technology and not the Speed Demon frames
Revision’s History
Over the past 20 years, Revision has become the proven supplier of military protective eyewear to NATO forces worldwide. This new partnership with Fast Metal is a powerful relationship combining military and tactical industry expertise with the best aluminum sunglass design. The goal – is to create an eyewear protection system that customers not only need but want.
“At Revision, we believe in the power of partnerships and collaborations in bringing new and exciting technology to end-users quickly,” said Revision CEO Amy Coyne. “Our new I-Vis lens technology delivers enhanced visual performance, and we needed an everyday sunglass platform to offer protection, style, and performance. We believe this collab is just the beginning of our partnership with Ken and the Fast Metal team.”
Speed Demon Specs
So what’s so special about these new Revision Speed Demon Sunglasses?
Well, first, the frame is entirely made out of aluminum 7075 allow, which provides ANSI Z87.1 protection.
Second, it is available with Revision’s new I-Vis lens technology. This technology is an advanced dye formulation process resulting in a new series of lens tints that markedly enhance visual performance. More than a single solution, I-Vis lenses are available in six tints, each optimized for use in a different environment. Each tint is designed to increase contrast and elevate color recognition in specific geographic regions, doing so without the negative effects associated with traditional monochromatic lens tints. These Speed Demon lenses also come with Revision’s OcuMax anti-fog and scratch coating and are field replaceable.
Finally, all frames and lenses are made in the USA; frames are made by Fast Metal in Yuma, Arizona, and lenses are made by Revision in Essex Junction, Vermont. The product is available for sale today at www.revisionmilitary.com and coming soon to Revision’s network of dealers and distributors around the globe.
FINAL RULE ATF: Last week, the BATFE issued new guidance on the legality of 80% frame lowers like those manufactured by Polymer 80, Lone Wolf Arms, Nomad Defense, and Matrix Arms. It’s rarely a Good Thing when we have to report ATF news, and this time is no different.
ATF Changes its Mind. Again.
Once again, the Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) has changed its mind. Remember how 80 percent frames and lowers were legal until Joe Biden’s ATF decided that they weren’t? You know, like the ATF always does.
That question was shaking out as part of the Vanderstok v. Garland case in federal court, with the ATF agreeing that the frames and receivers in question were indeed legal so long as they didn’t ship with “associated templates, jigs, molds, equipment, tools, instructions, guides, or marketing materials.”
So, basically, the frames and receivers are only firearms under the Gun Control Act (GCA) if they are packaged with those “non-firearm objects” (NFO). Strange, but okay. Companies had already incorporated that change and were continuing to ship their products. NFO sold separately.
Then, out of the blue, ATF dropped a new rule on FFLs by way of a December 27 open letter. The letter stated that “these partially complete pistol frames are ‘frames’ and ‘firearms’ as defined in the GCA and its implementing regulations.” Even if they don’t include the NFO items.
ATF bases this change on the definition of the word “readily,” as in whether these frames can be “readily converted” to fully functioning firearms.
Here’s an excerpt from that statement:
Applying the regulatory text of Final Rule 2021-05F, partially complete Polymer80, Lone Wolf, and similar striker-fired semiautomatic pistol frames, including, but not limited to, those sold within parts kits, have reached a stage of manufacture where they “may readily be completed, assembled, restored, or otherwise converted” to a functional frame. This definition of “readily” applies to each and every classification of a partially complete frame or receiver under this Rule, whether sold alone or as part of a kit. Therefore, even without any associated templates, jigs, molds, equipment, tools, instructions, guides, or marketing materials, these partially complete pistol frames are “frames” and also “firearms” as defined in the GCA and its implementing regulations, 18 U.S.C. § 921(a)(3)(B) and 27 CFR 478.12(a)(1), (c).
The following are some examples of companies that build 80% frames.
We’re down to just three days left before TRIGGRCON! Just a reminder, if you didn’t manage to pre-register, you can still get tickets at the event. Today we’re going to talk about an Evening with Heroes. The VIP event will be an intimate gathering of tactical industry leaders, first responders, military VIPs, and VIP ticket holders.
The VIP event will include some of the best NW spirits & beverages, fantastic food, exciting tactical entertainment, giveaways, and a raffle that will benefit our charity, Resilient Warrior Foundation. We think you should attend and support a good cause!
Get Tickets for the VIP Party!
“Don’t wake up on the 9th and realize you didn’t come; you’re going to have to wait a whole year thinking about how you missed the biggest event in the region.” – GW Ayers III, Chief Operating Officer of Rainier Arms.
Featured Influencers Attending
AR15 News
MSM | Mil-Spec Monkey
Ava Flanell
Pew Pew Tactical
Baby Yota
Who Can Attend?
The Enthusiast
If you support or are interested in the firearm industry. Whether on a competitive match, in your backyard, or hunting. Register here.
Media & Industry
Do you either work in the industry in some capacity or support the industry through your business? This is for you! Register here.
Just a reminder, this year’s expo will be held at the premier Flint Oak Hunting Lodge in Flint Oak, KS. The dates for the expo are October 7th-8th, 2022. Range day and exhibitor events will be running concurrently.
TRIGGRCON FAQ
Are there ID or minimum age requirements to enter TRIGGRCON?
TRIGGRCON is an all-ages show. There are no ID requirements though everyone must have a ticket to enter.
What are my parking options at TRIGGRCON?
There is limited parking under the convention center. However, parking will be free for our patrons and we intend on having two party shuttle buses in circulation at all times throughout the day on both days.
How are the shuttles working?
They’ll be transporting folks from the main parking lot to the main lodge where all the non-firing vendors will be located. As people offload at the registration tents in front of the main lodge, they can hop back on if they would like and head to the long-distance range.
Can I bring my pet to the TRIGGRCON?
No animals are allowed. The only exception is for correctly identified on-duty ADA-recognized service animals.
Are personal firearms or ammunition allowed?
Personal firearms must remain in a holster and cannot be discharged.
How can I contact the organizer with any questions?
Do I have to bring my printed ticket to the event?
No, you may either print your ticket or have it on your phone.
Will badges be required?
Only industry, media, and exhibitors will be required to wear a badge during the show. Standard public/enthusiast attendees do not need to wear a badge during the show.
