NEW REVIEW: JULY 2003

By Chris A. Choat

LEICA INTRODUCES THEIR NEW LRF 900 RANGEFINDER

Leica is upgrading its already popular line of rangefinders with the new LRF 900. This model is an improved version of the original LRF 800 and has a couple of added features making the new unit even more user friendly. First, the LRF 900 can measure distances out to 900 yards. Second, a scan mode allows the user to get continuous readings by holding the function button down. Measuring 4 X 3 3/4 X 1 1/8 inches and weighing only 10 ounces, the LRF 900 is easy to use and carry. The unit has a 7X magnification eyepiece that is fully adjustable to the users’ eye. A field of view of 336 feet at 100 yards makes it easy to locate the object or animal that the user is trying to range. The LRF 900 provides instant yardage readings from 10 to 900 yards with one push of the operating button. For multiple readings, the button is held down and scanned across the landscape, giving the multiple readings. The scan mode also makes it possible to range moving targets or flying targets like ducks and geese. The easy-to-read LED display automatically adjusts to ambient light conditions. Multi-coated lenses provide sharp, bright high-contrast images. The LRF 900 Rangefinder is the perfect choice for a variety of hunting and shooting situations. Headquartered in Germany, Leica has been an acknowledged leader in the optics industry for over 150 years. For more information on this as well as all their other fine optics contact Leica Camera Inc. (Dept. SAR, 156 Ludiow Ave., Northvale, NJ 07647; phone: 1-201-767-7500; fax: 1-201-767-8666; website: www.leica-camers.com/sportoptics. )

LASERMAX ADDS HK TO ITS LIST OF LASER SIGHTS

LaserMax has now introduced a laser for the HK USP Compact 40 to add to its already lengthy list of gunsight lasers. Due to the unique manufacturing of the HK and its polymer frame, the LaserMax is the only gunsight laser available for use with the USP Compact 40. Totally internal and as rugged and reliable as USP itself, the LaserMax is consistent in providing point-of-aim/point-of-impact at center of mass to within 2 inches from 0 to 20 yards. No gunsmithing is needed and the gun can still be used in any holster. Installation is simple, just drop the laser in place, replacing the recoil spring guide, install the switch and reassemble the gun. The laser can be turned off and on at the take down lever with the ambidextrous switch. No alignment is ever needed. The LaserMax features a unique pulsating beam that improves accuracy and assists in training all levels of shooters, from the novice to the most experienced. Each sight is factory pre-aligned and has a 3-year warranty on everything but expendable parts. The LaserMax uses widely available hearing aid or watch batteries. For more information on this an other LaserMax gunsights please contact them at LaserMax, Inc. (Dept. SAR, 3495 Winton Place, Building B, Rochester, NY 14623; phone: 1-716-272-5420; fax: 1-716-272-5427; website: www.lasermax-inc.com. )

STREAMLIGHT INTRODUCES TWO NEW SERIES OF TACTICAL LIGHTS

Streamlight, Inc., a flashlight manufacturer for law enforcement applications, has introduced their new TL™ and NightFighter™ series of tactical lights. The TL family is comprised of the TL-2, TL-2 LED, TL-3 and TL-3 LED models. The NightFighter series includes the NF-2. According to Streamlight the new tactical lights offer many advantages over competitive lights in their class. The TL-2 and TL-3 models rival the power of larger lights, and yet they are small enough to be used with a firearm. Specifically designed for use with a firearm, the NF-2 is the lightest tactical light in its class. Its light weight combines with a compact design for faster, more accurate target acquisition. A unique feature of the NF-2 is it s polymer grip ring that infinitely adjusts to fit and hand size. This makes using the NF-2 more desirable for tatical use. Streamlights new tactical lights are also equipped with an adjustable focus. The TL-2 and TL-3 models, both of which are equipped with a high-intensity xenon bulb, deliver up to 100 and 175 lumens, respectively, for up to one continuous hour. The TL-2 LED and TL-3 LED lights feature a revolutionary Luxeon LED that delivers 35 and 85 lumens, respectively, for up to four hours. The TL-2 models, which utilize two 3V lithium batteries, measure 4.9 inches long and weigh 4.33 ounces. The TL-3 versions, which use three 3V lithium batteries, are 6.25 inches long and weigh 7 ounces. The NF-2 delivers up to 100 lumens for a maximum of up to 1 continuous hour. It is powered by two 3V lithium batteries, and measures 4.9 inches in length and weighs only 4.2 ounces. All of the TL and NightFighter models feature a non-protruding push button tailcap for momentary operation. Continuous power is achieved by rotating the tailcap into the locked “on” position. The lights are constructed of machined aircraft aluminum and available with a black or olive drab finish that guards against corrosion damage. The lights are protected from moisture damage by standard O-rings. The new lights come with an adjustable wrist lanyard and spring steel pocket clip as standard equipment. For more information please contact; Streamlight, Inc. (Dept. SAR, 30 Eagleville Road, Eagleville, Pennsylvania 19403-3996; phone: 1-610-631-0600; fax: 1-610-631-0712; website: www.streamlight.com. )

GSI INTERNATIONAL INTRODUCES INTERNAL GUNLOCKS

GSI International has introduced a unique, tamper-proof internal gunlock that renders a stored semi-auto pistol totally inoperable by unauthorized person. Unlike other gunlocks, the new GSI Gunlock has no external features that can be compromised. Once the Gunlock is inserted into your pistol’s magazine-well and engaged, it’s impossible to remove without the key. The body of the GSI Gunlock is precision machined to fit into the magazine well of the firearm. The key inserts into the base of the Gunlock. A turn of the key moves the integral locking pin into the firearm’s chamber, securing the Gunlock in place. The internal mechanism of the GSI Gunlock is manufactured of hardened steel and the body is hard-black anodized aluminum. The base of the Gunlock is coated red for instant recognition. Using the GSI Gunlock requires no modifications to the firearm and it’s impossible for ammunition to be present in the firearm while the Gunlock is in place. The Gunlocks are designed to be firearm specific. At this time GSI makes their Internal Gunlock for the Colt 1911 style pistols and the Glock series of pistols but other models will follow later this year. GSI Gunlocks are available through Dillon Precision Products, Inc., in their Blue Press catalog or directly from GSI International. For more information, contact Xavier Gonzalez at GSI International (Dept. SAR, 7750 E. Evans Road, Suite 2, Scottsdale, AZ 85260; phone: 1- 480-951-1890; fax: 1-480-951-1891).

LASERGRIPS INTRODUCES HTS MODEL FOR THE AR-15/M-16 RIFLE

Lasergrips brought the speed, accuracy and security of heads-up, projected-index-sighting to the world of handguns and now those same traits can enhance the AR-15/M-16 rifle. Crimson Trace has now introduced their new HTS (Heads-up Targeting System). The new HTS is specially designed for the AR-15/M16 series of rifles. The Crimson Trace HTS is engineered to integrate cleanly into ant A1 or A2 upper, following the same visual design lines as the factory grip. The Crimson Trace unit replaces the stock grip, and in an installation that takes all of two minutes. The HTS housing is created from rugged polymer and is designed to take all the abuse an armed professional can offer. This housing is secured to the upper by a specially engineered elastomer, which ensures repeatability accuracy and quick on/off capability. A standard 123A- 3volt lithium battery that is good for 4 hours of continuous run time powers the laser. The HTS laser offers full operator control of the laser light. You just squeeze the grip to activate it, relax your grip slightly to turn it off. The entire HST unit only weighs 3 ounces and is compatible with most weapon mounted lights and will not interfere with carry-handle scope mounts. For more information contact Crimson Trace Corporation (Dept. SAR, 8089 SW Cirrus Drive, Beaverton, OR 97008; phone: 1-503-627-9992; fax: 1-503-627-0166; website: www.crimsontrace.com. )