Smith & Wesson has been one of the last of the major “old” companies to jump on the “black rifle” bandwagon. But jump on it they have and in a big way. It now catalogs a full line of AR-15 style rifles of various configurations which carry the M&P (military and police) 15 model designations. The newest is their M&P15R, which is an M4 style carbine in 5.45×39 caliber. One may ask why this little known Russian caliber and the answer is simple: economics. At the time of this writing .223 or 5.56 NATO ammunition is very hard to get and if you can get it it’s very pricey making any kind of shooting very hard on the wallet. For aficionados of black rifles, Smith and Wesson has come to the rescue with the M&P15R as current price for 5.45×39 ammunition is around half of what .223 can be had for.

5.45×39 Ammunition

This Russian round has been highly overlooked until recently. That was because up until about 2 years ago there was hardly any of this ammunition, or rifles to shoot it, available in this country. The 5.45×39 mm round was put into service as far back as 1974 replacing the 7.62×39 round. It is said that the Russian military was looking for a low recoil round that was lighter to carry as well as being more controllable to shoot. The military ball round designated the 5N7 (50 grain) has a full metal jacketed bullet with a soft steel core. This round has a sizzling velocity of around 3,000 feet per second. There is a hollow space ahead of the core which allows the bullet point to flatten when it hits something and induces yaw causing it to tumble. This in turn causes increased wounding potential. In 1987 the round underwent a design change and the soft core was replaced with a hardened steel core. This was essentially a way to overcome advances in ballistic vests. The new rounds were designated the 7N6 (53 grain). These rounds were used extensively in Afghanistan by the Soviet army. The Afghans called the round the “Poison Bullet” because of its effectiveness. In 1992 the size of the steel penetrator was increased and was then called the 7N10 (56 grain) that was said to have even more improved penetration. In 1998 again a new design was fielded called the 7N22 (57 grain), a true armor piercing bullet with a sharp steel penetrator made of a special hardened steel and a soft lead plug at the bullet’s nose. This soft nose caused the bullet to shed its jacket upon striking the target. The newest design is now called the 7N24 (62 grain) and comes with a so-called super armor piercing bullet with a penetrator made of tungsten carbide. This round is produced only in limited quantities due to the higher cost involved to manufacture. One other round is available in the 5.45×39 series. It is designated the 7U1 and features a 79 grain bullet designed for use in suppressed guns. All types of surplus 5.45×39 ammunition feature Berdan primed steel cases with a sealant on the case mouth. Most all of the ammunition available in the U.S. is military surplus but Wolf Ammunition now produces a couple of commercial loads. One features a 60 grain FMJBT bullet driven at an advertised velocity of 2,886 fps housed in a lacquered steel case. The other is from their Military Classic line and features a 70 grain FMJ bullet at 2,460 fps. Regardless of the type of ammunition the 5.45×39 round is fast and hits extremely hard.

Smith & Wesson M&P15R

The gas-operated M&P15R is available in either a complete rifle or entire upper receiver ready to drop onto your existing lower. The rifle comes in an A4 carbine version with a 16-inch chrome lined barrel with an M4 profile and a flat top upper. The barrel features a 1 in 8 right hand twist with 4 grooves. The chamber, bolt carrier and gas key are also chromed. The handguards that come on the rifle are the skinny CAR style; not the larger M4 style although they do have metal liners. The rifle is shipped with a standard AR front sight post with bayonet lug and no rear sight of any kind. This way with the flat-top upper you can equip it with the rear sight of your choice, optics or both. Other features of the new rifle are pretty much standard fare: a 6-position collapsible carbine stock (with S&W logo) and an A2 pistol grip. The business end features an A2 five-slot flash hider and the barrel is threaded 1/2×28, which is the standard for .223 AR rifles. This allows the shooter to use any AR-15 style muzzle device including quick detach suppressor couplers. The upper and lower receivers are 7075 T6 aluminum made for Smith & Wesson by a private contractor. The rifles are all assembled by S&W in their own factory so they can maintain quality control and, as a nice touch, are shipped in a plastic hard case. Each rifle comes with one 30-round magazine. The upper receiver kit also comes with one 30-round magazine, bolt and carrier but does not come with a charging handle.

Magazines

The magazine supplied with the M&P rifle is first rate and is made by C-Products. These are not just 5.56 magazines with different followers. C-Products magazines utilize a stainless steel body, anti-tilt follower, chrome silicon spring and have a “Mar-Lube” finish. They offer improved reliability, better durability and less maintenance than standard USGI aluminum magazines. The magazine body and floor plate are made from 400-series stainless steel that is heat treated to a Rc38 level of hardness. The chrome silicon spring will not take a set even if left compressed for extended periods and the anti-tilt follower makes jamming almost an impossibility. The magazine for the 5.45×39 round is specially designed for that round – it is not just a revamped 5.56 magazine. The magazine body features a special rib configuration that allows the 5.45×39 round to feed flawlessly. The follower was also designed specifically for this round and the feed lips are also cut slightly different than 5.56 magazines. During our test, standard aluminum AR-15 magazines were also tried. While they did feed and function just fine, Smith & Wesson recommends using the C-Products 5.45×39 magazines for the utmost in reliability.

Testing

The test rifle was equipped with an Aimpoint CompM4 optic for initial testing. The optic offers Mil-Spec durability and battery life in a top-of-the-line red dot scope. Test firing was done at 100 yards with Wolf 60 grain FMJ, Wolf Military Classic 70 grain FMJ and Russian surplus 60 grain FMJ loads. Five shot groups averaged around 3 inches with all ammunition used. The Wolf 60 grain load was the hottest passing through the chronograph screens at 3,026 feet per second. The 70 grain loadings were clocked at 2,557 fps. Switching to a magnified crosshair type scope shrank the group sizes dramatically. The best group was shot with the Wolf Military Classic70 grain load with 5 shots being able to be covered by a quarter. The S&W M&P15R owes its accuracy to the tighter bore of the barrel. The barrels of the M&P15R guns were designed and made especially for the 5.45 X 39 round. They feature a bore diameter of .217 and a groove diameter of .222. This is not the case with some of the other companies that are manufacturing uppers or complete guns in this caliber. Often times the barrels on these other guns actually are just 5.56×45 (.223) barrels with 5.45×39 chambers.

During the first day of testing, over 300 rounds were fired through the gun. All rounds fed and fired flawlessly with not a single failure. The gun is a smooth firing machine that always goes bang when you pull the trigger. An interesting thing surfaced during the test. All shooters who fired the gun agree that it “feels” as though the gun has a slightly sharper recoil than the same gun in 5.56 caliber. The felt recoil from the M&P15R also seemed a little more pronounced than the author’s Polish Tantal. This could be attributed to overall weight of both weapons. Don’t get me wrong, recoil of this round in this type of rifle is virtually non-existent. But after firing literally 10’s of thousands of 5.56 through AR-15s there was definitely a different feel to this rifle. At the time of this writing with well over 600 rounds fired, we still have not had any failures. This gun runs perfectly. As a side note for our machine gun fans, the upper receiver was removed from the Smith and Wesson lower and placed on one of the author’s select fire lowers. The semi-auto bolt carrier was then replaced with a full-auto carrier and around 300 rounds were fired in the full auto mode – also without any glitches.

Conclusion

The Smith & Wesson M&P15R is not only a very good looking gun, the upper to lower fit is excellent making the two pieces look like they were machined together – as is typical of all Smith & Wesson firearms. The overall finish is hard coat black anodized and everything matches perfectly. The flat-top upper has etched T-slot numbers for indexing optics at the same place. The rifles receiver is marked with the Smith & Wesson and M&P15 logos and serial number but no calibers markings. The barrel is stamped 5.45×39 mm just behind the flash hider on the top side. Best of all, it’s available in a caliber that is plentiful and relatively, at least for now, inexpensive. What more could you want in a rifle?

Model: M&P15R

Caliber:   5.45x39mm
Capacity:   30 rounds
Action:   Semi-auto
Barrel length:   16 inches
Barrel twist:   1 in 8 inches
Front sight:   M4 post
Overall length:   35 inches extended, 32 inches collapsed
Stock:   6-position collapsible
Weight:   6.5 pounds.
Barrel material:   4140 steel
Receiver material:   7075 T6 aluminum
Finish:   Hard coat black anodized
Chromed comp:   Barrel bore, gas key, bolt carrier and chamber
MSRP:   $1,225

Smith & Wesson
Springfield, MA 01104
Phone: (413) 781-8300
Website: www.smith-wesson.com

Wolf Performance Ammunition
Las Vegas, Nevada 89119
Phone: (703) 837-5825
Website: www.wolfammo.com

C-Products LLC
Newington, CT 06111
Phone: (941) 776-8192
Website: www.cproductsllc.com

Aimpoint, Inc.
Chantilly, VA 20151
Phone: (703) 263-9795
Website: wwwaimpoint.com

By Richard MacLean

A story of business success based on talent, fate, timing, luck and skill in asking the right questions

This interview traces Robbie Barrkman’s progression, first as a competitive shooter and trainer on through his career as a leading figure in small arms innovation and customization. The story is a mini biography as well as a case study in how successful weapons’ businesses are conceived and evolve. Some may think that success depends on an original design and the business skills to commercially develop and market the products. William Ruger is a classic example of both a designer and a person with good business skills.

But the elements of business success are much more complicated than just these two factors. Even with an outstanding design, a business can struggle if the timing is wrong (e.g. Thompsons and Auto Ordnance after World War I). Sometimes it can be fate that links people with complementary skills together (e.g. Horace Smith, Daniel Wesson and investor Oliver Winchester). Or it can be something as mundane as asking the right questions, as will soon be illustrated.

SAR: How did you first become interested in shooting?

Robbie: My dad was a hunter and shooter since childhood. When I was a child, my mother and I would accompany him on Saturday afternoons to the range outside of Johannesburg. My mom was terrified of guns and would come along and read to pass the time. One of the women convinced her to try her luck and her first time up she absolutely drilled the targets. She had a phenomenal, natural ability and within two years was a national champion. Ironically, she never lost her unease over guns.

So basically I was born into a shooting family. My first gun was a lever-action Daisy BB rifle and I was so small my dad had to cock it. When I turned 14 – the legal age for owning a rifle in South Africa – my birthday present was a .22 BSA Henry Martini target rifle. I started shooting competition and did not enjoy it all that much. But at 18, my Dad introduced me to pistol shooting and that really caught my fancy. I started shooting ISU (International Shooting Union) matches.

Right around that time, combat shooting was beginning to generate interest in South Africa. Joe Grant-Greeson went over to the States and trained with the FBI on two-handed shooting similar to the Weaver stance instead of the usual single-handed target shooting. Within a month of his return, I was participating in his classes. We were shooting combat-style from barricades and so on and this really set me on fire.

I got some of my friends involved and we formed our first combat club. We were allowed to use a small range off to one side of my parent’s shooting club. Bill Jordan’s No Second Place Winner was like a bible to us. I had a Smith & Wesson K38 and ammunition was extremely expensive so we all had to reload. My first was one of those Lee Hand Loaders and it took me hours each week to get ready for the upcoming weekend shoots. No one had automated presses such as RCBS or Star – you just could not buy them in a commercial store. The arms embargo had a major effect on our ability to buy guns, ammunition and reloading equipment.

SAR: When did you first meet Jeff Cooper?

Robbie: We had heard about Jeff Cooper in the early 1970s. I talked to the guys and suggested that we try to get him to come out to South Africa to run a class since it would be cheaper than having the 20 of us fly to the States. In 1973, he came out for the first of three visits and stayed at my house.

I hit it off right away with Jeff. I recall first picking him up at the Johannesburg airport and there he was standing at the baggage pickup wearing cowboy boots which was unusual, to say the least, in South Africa. But on top of that, one leg of his trousers was tucked inside one of them. I leaned over and said, “Mr. Cooper, just so you know, your trouser leg is caught in your boot.” Jeff was a big man and he looked down at me and said, “I know. I do that because it makes me look different.” I knew then that this was going to be a really interesting experience. (Laughs)

Jeff was a great motivator. That first class was an eye-opener and got everyone excited. After he left, I called a meeting of the group and we decided to form the South African Practical Shooting Association. It is still in existence today. The problem back then was that without government recognition, the members could not officially represent South Africa in international shooting events.

SAR: How did you go about securing credentials for the new shooting club?

Robbie: With many things in life, it is not what you know, but who you know. (Laughs) My dad was the Chairman of the country’s Shooting Association, which was the controlling body for all shooting in South Africa. The SASA had official government support from the Department of Sports. By coming under the SASA umbrella, we could receive national recognition representing the country in international competition. Only the government could award the green blazer called “Springbok colours” to sports teams, not just shooting teams. It was a really big deal, similar to being named an All-American athlete. It was instantly recognizable within the country and even places like Australia which had a similar system.

At first, SASA really fought us for a long time since it was not traditional shooting. They thought it might be dangerous and had no sporting application. Even my own father was making comments like, “Why don’t you do something else?” Gradually, we grew to the point that they recognized that there would be benefits to coming under their charter. It took several years to convince them, but I learned very valuable negotiation skills in how to create win-win combinations that later proved useful in business.

The first officially sanctioned shoot was with Rhodesia and I went as team captain. By 1976, the group had grown to a couple of hundred and we now had the membership and money to participate in world championships. In 1976, our team participated in the second world International Practical Shooting Confederation (IPSC) in Salzburg, Austria.

SAR: What were you doing to earn a living during this time period?

Robbie: My father was a pathologist and he wanted me to go to medical school. I had no interest in spending eleven years in school so the compromise was to major in dental technology since it was five years. In South Africa, dental technologists are tightly controlled and registered with the same councils as doctors and dentists. You had to be registered to run a lab.

I started a laboratory making crowns, bridges and so on. The timing was perfect because there was a huge demand. It was extremely exacting work since patients and their doctors get very upset if the work is not perfect and even slight imperfections become obvious because of fit issues. This was my first exposure to the importance of quality control and customer service. At the time I came over to the States, the laboratory I sold was one of the biggest in South Africa.

SAR: What about military service?

Robbie: When I left secondary school (high school), I went straight into the army. In South Africa, the military is similar to those in Switzerland and Israel and does not have a standing army. It is an active “Citizen Force” with two years of basic training, then occasional weekend exercises and a dedicated one-month-per-year for three years after that. If you were able to obtain rank, you could stay on. I was in for a total of eleven-and-a-half years ultimately obtaining the rank of sergeant major.

The South African Defence Force was equipped at the time with 7.62mm FAL R1 rifles made in Pretoria under license by Fabrique Nationale. Senior NCOs could use an Uzi instead of the FAL and officers were issued a Spanish Star 9mm sidearm. I was the only NCO in my regiment allowed to carry a sidearm, specifically my Browning Hi-Power, because of my background in shooting and being a Springbok. Plus, I received free 9mm ammunition. (Laughs)

In 1976, I was asked to set up a range and training classes for officers entering the Angolan operational area. I must admit, I got a certain amount of enjoyment ordering around these officers. I had an obstacle course set up and I really put them through some tough training. But again, it was a great learning experience in dealing with sometimes temperamental and self-important people.

SAR: What prompted you to make the transition to the States?

Robbie: At the world championship, Jeff Cooper invited me to visit Gunsite, which he was in the process of building. In April of 1977, my wife and I decided to make the trip since she wanted to visit her parents living in Miami and I wanted to take a look at some dental products for my lab. It was a multifaceted trip.

I visited Gunsite as a student instructor and got a certificate that Jeff told me was the very first he had issued. We were sitting at the lunch table and it is interesting how little remarks can change your whole life. Jeff said, “Too bad you do not live here, I’d really like to bring you on staff.” I talked it over with my wife and she urged me to ask him if he was really serious. He was.

On this trip, I met a guy named Rick Durkee in Phoenix who was interested in opening a dental lab. He had a network of contacts, but no experience in setting up and running such a business. This was exactly my expertise so it had the potential for a perfect partnership. In August of 1977, we came back over to the States after working out a deal with Jeff to teach at Gunsite one week, every two months. We ended up selling the dental lab and our house in South Africa.

SAR: How did you go from part time instructor to full-time staff member?

Robbie: In the early days of Gunsite, the classes were run sporadically according to the demand. For nearly two years, I was so busy with the lab that I did not even teach a class. Then fate intervened again. I was learning how to fly and my instructor and I decided to fly up to Gunsite and use its landing strip. As soon as I arrived, Jeff approached me and asked me to come on staff full time. Right at that time, someone had approached my partner and me to buy the dental lab. It all came together. Initially, I commuted from Phoenix, but by 1981 I was a full-time instructor.

SAR: How did Robar get started?

Robbie: Before I started teaching full time, I had started to gunsmith on the side in my Phoenix house and was also repairing students’ guns in the barn at Gunsite. For liability and other reasons, I decided it was time to incorporate so I went to the Arizona Corporation Commission to fill out the forms in 1981. The woman there asked for the corporate name and I had not even given it a thought until that moment. I picked it there on the spot, “RO – BAR,” from my first and last names. In retrospect it seems odd, but at the time I did not worry about such stuff as corporate names.

Eventually, Jeff wanted me to live up there. He offered to build a home for me to live in along with an attached gunsmith shop that I leased from Jeff. I had been doing some nickel plating back in South Africa and even built my own rectifier from information I got from the book Electro-Plating for the Amateur. I suppose this machine was the very beginning of my company.

My gunsmithing and plating business really started to grow. It was great working at Gunsite because I came in contact with all sorts of agency people – some real shooters – who explained their needs and issues. Some would leave their guns for me to customize to their specifications. That’s how I got into customization.

The timing was perfect since the whole field of custom tactical weapons was in its infancy and I was surrounded by people with cutting-edge knowledge like Clint Smith and Gale McMillan. I asked a million questions and combined this knowledge with my own experience as an IPSC shooter and NCO in the army. For example, I developed some concepts for tactical shotguns and these were commercialized in an agreement with Roger Small of Scattergun Technologies.

The issue that developed was that there were two, separate businesses emerging at Gunsite: my own and Jeff’s. Jeff ran a tight ship and sometimes he could assert his views into how I was running my business. In 1986, we parted ways and I set up shop in a small portion of the commercial building I’m still in today.

With Jeff it was sort of a love-hate relationship, but I always completely respected his knowledge and talent. I last saw him at the 2006 SHOT Show in Las Vegas before he died later that year. It was really heart wrenching to see a man who was once such a big strong guy looking so frail in a wheelchair. We talked for nearly an hour and it was great to re-connect.

SAR: How did you come up with NP3 – the Teflon-based coating Robar is so well-known for?

Robbie: I dreamed that one up on the toilet. (Laughs) No, it’s true, but it obviously requires some explanation.

Drilling platforms in the North Atlantic were having problems with the stainless steel unloading couplings galling. The Dutch firm Akso Nobel invented an electroless nickel-Teflon coating to solve the problem, but they needed help getting it out of the laboratory and commercializing it further. The UK company Fothergill Engineered Surfaces joined them in a partnership to commercialize and market the product.

My local supplier of plating chemicals stopped by and as a joke I asked, “What do you have today that I don’t have?” This question turned out to be critical. He left a flyer on nickel-Teflon coatings. I put it aside and one morning on the way to the “reading room” I grabbed the literature and within a matter of minutes, I understood its potential. I immediately got on phone to start the process of obtaining exclusive licensing rights to weapons coating.

Dr. Paul Ebdon approached me to join us in commercializing NP3 and come over to the States. NP3 stands for Nickel – Polytetrafloride and 3 is part of the formula. Robar was predominantly custom gunsmithing in the beginning, but the coating business gradually grew, especially after a cover story article on NP3 appeared in SWAT magazine around 1987. I decided to spin off the coatings business as a separate company called Coatings Technology in 1987. What made the coatings business really take off was our entry into the aerospace business.

SAR: How did you get into the aerospace business?

Robbie: Again, fate intervened. A guy showed up one day with a disassembled Enfield .303 that was his dad’s. He needed help getting it cleaned up and back together. While he was in the shop, he noticed a pistol that had just been NP3’d. Turned out that he was a materials processing engineer working at McDonald Douglas. He was so interested in the coating that he told his manager about it. Within two weeks, she was at our shop and was so impressed that she helped us set up the necessary QC and standards manuals to become an approved vendor for McDonald Douglas. This directly helped us later getting Nadcap certified. You cannot get any business in that industry without this certification.

SAR: What is Nadcap and does this help with the gunsmithing side of the business?

Robbie: The Nadcap Program (National Aerospace and Defense Contractors Accreditation) is similar to ISO 9000 certification only much more rigorous. Mil Spec is another term that many are familiar with, but it is a minimum standard and you are not even audited unless you are doing military contract work. The trend today is to have Nadcap certification to increase the chances of success on a military contract bid. Once we got Nadcap certification, Dr. Ebdon and I went on the road marketing to the aerospace industry to get the word out about NP3.

The NADCAP process has created a quality headset in the business that we otherwise probably would not have had. From the gun coating side of the business, it means that customers get the exact same treatment on their parts as a component that is meant for some exotic aerospace unit, since we use the same coating tanks and quality systems.

Another benefit with this rigorous systems approach is that we have gotten excellent comments and no citations from ATF when they have come out to do audits. We are an 07 manufacturer and at any one time there are, let’s just say, more than a few guns around, so keeping track of these is essential for maintaining our license.

The aerospace business has enabled us to afford the equipment and staff that would be difficult, if not impossible, to justify solely by gunsmithing. It is a win for our customers and a win for us. I think it is indicative of today’s competitive business environment. You need to have some niche or advantage if you are to survive.

SAR: Speaking of business environment, what are your views on how the small arms industry is evolving?

Robbie: The really large companies such as Remington, Heckler and Koch and Winchester have the financial resources to compete in the global marketplace. There is no way that small or mid-size companies such as ours can go head-to-head against these firms in doing things like manufacturing actions for the mass markets.

Twenty years ago, companies like Robar and McMillan had little competition in building tactical rifles and competition pistols. But the technology has changed and the trend now is toward modular systems. It is possible to have companies such as Bushmaster or Less Bare assemble from components and produce an excellent weapon suitable for most needs. The components are so good now that it is even possible for the do-it-yourself gunsmith to build a weapon rivaling those of just a decade ago.

There will, of course, always be niche markets for specialized firms. For example, the small, one- and two-person shops doing custom gunsmithing and gun repair. But for larger firms such as us with 26 employees, you really must have some special advantage that sets you apart. In our case, it is our coatings technologies and our reputation for building superior tactical weapons where lives are on the line.

SAR: Thank you, Robbie, for taking the time to talk about your background and evolution of your business.

The Soviet Union and its current itineration, Russia, have long been known for innovative weapon development, only some of which has seen the light of day in the Western world. There is a long history of effectively “keeping the lid” on new weapons until someone on the other side runs into them in the field and reports on them. Rumors of a new cartridge and both a submachine gun and silenced sniper rifle utilizing this ammunition have leaked into the general Western military communities for many years. Some have been on display at shows, and there have been several Western military personnel and firearms writers who have studied these and written some information on them.

None of these unique weapons have been seen by the general military population other than in isolated news clips, especially from the recent unpleasantness in the former Soviet State of Georgia. When Russian military forces crossed into the northern provinces of Georgia and swiftly cut them off from the south, much of the world recoiled in horror and voiced platitudes about how the Russians must stop this assault. Within a short period the Russian military forces brilliantly transitioned into the “Peace-keepers” in the region, and photos leaked out to the Western press and Intel communities showed strange, Dragunov-looking weapons that were clearly too short to be in 7.62x54R caliber, and also very clearly integrally suppressed. Pandemonium ensued as all resources were called upon to ID this weapon and the threat it represents.

There have been some excellent but isolated references on the 9x39mm ammunition and firearms, and Internet resources are limited of course to the writer’s experience with the weapons – usually non-existent other than in computer games. Real time, take-it-apart, pull the trigger, hands-on testing has been very rare and certainly not widely reported. Charles Cutshaw’s excellent book The New World of Russian Small Arms and Ammo does an excellent job and should be on everyone’s bookshelf, but his 1990s treatise is limited to Lyn Haywood’s line drawings for illustration and he was not allowed to disassemble the weapons.

Two Small Arms Review writers were granted the opportunity to examine in detail both the weapons and the ammunition in the field at a discreet location in Southwest Asia. In addition to extensive disassembly and photography, we were also given the opportunity to test fire both the VSS silenced sniper rifle and the VIKHR submachine gun with our meters ready to conduct scientific testing. We wanted to be as thorough as possible with this unique opportunity.

There are some myths and assumptions made that we will try to gently correct: or at least provide another point of view on. The first being that the MA “VIKHR” (Whirlwind) submachine gun is the same as the VSS “Vintorez” (Thread-cutter) with the exception of the buttstock and suppressor. This is not true though the receivers are similar and some parts will interchange, they are not the same receiver with one simply being suppressed.

As is their standard procedure, the Russians had several factories competing to manufacture the 9x39mm weapon systems they required. Then end product offerings are as follows:

TsNIITochmash:

• MA “VIKHR” (Whirlwind) unsuppressed miniature assault rifle.
• AS “VAL” (Rampart) based on VIKHR, side folding stock: not a “take-down.”
• VSS “Vintorez” (Thread-cutter) based on VIKHR: removable stock, “take-down.”

Tula KBP:

• A-91 offered in a number of calibers, can operate with or without the suppressor.
• VSK-94 sniper model of the A-91, in a case, could have wood (early) or polymer stock and fire without suppressor installed.

Our concern today is with two of the offerings from TsNIITochmash: the VIKHR and the VSS.

The 9×39 cartridge

There is a paucity of real, hands-on information available on the 9x39mm ammunition. What we did find states that there are two different variants of the 9x39mm ammunition. One, the SP-5, is conventional ball ammunition. We only had available less than ten rounds of this, so we did not disassemble it. The other is the SP-6 round, which is a black tipped armor piercing ammunition.

The Testing

We spent the better part of the only delightfully sunny day of our visit on the range performing function, velocity, sound, and crude penetration testing. The temperature was 83.5/29(F/C), humidity was 37%, and the station pressure was 675 mmHg. The velocity of sound calculated to 1,143 ft/sec. We used the protocol in Mil-Std-1474D with the microphone 1 meter to the left of the muzzle 90 degrees to the bore axis, 1.6 meters above dirt (there was no grass in sight). For sound measurements, we used the Larson-Davis 800B with the LD 2530 1/4 inch pressure microphone and a recently re-certified LD CA250 calibrator. For velocity and rate-of-fire measurements, we used a PACT chronograph/timer.

For our non-suppressed sound levels, we shot the SP-6 ammunition in the Vikhr. The non-suppressed average was 159.8 dB with a zero standard deviation. Velocity was 957.5 ft/second for the SP-5 SNIPER and 961.4 ft/second for the SP-6 armor piercing. Rate of fire was 789 rounds per minute.

Suppressed, using the VSS, the measured sound levels were: 130.0, 130.3, 130.8, 129.0, 127.5, and 130.8 deciBels. This averaged to 129.7 dB for a respectable reduction of 30.1 dB. The first round was 0.3dB louder than the average of the remaining rounds, and the standard deviation was 1.17. Velocity averaged 924.3 ft/second, only slightly less than the velocity in the Vikhr. With the SP-5 Sniper AP ammunition, the cyclic rate of the VSS rifle was 960 rounds per minute. This increase compared to the similarly designed Vikhr is predictable due to increased bore pressure of the suppressed weapon causing more rapid opening of the action.

We did measure the sound level and velocity of a few rounds of the standard SP-5 ball ammunition. The velocity measured 905 ft/second and the sound level was 120.8 dB for slightly less than 39 dB reduction. The decreased velocity and sound level are probably due to a heavier bullet containing a lead core rather than the steel core of the SP-5 SNIPER ammunition.

We did not have the facilities at this time to measure group size, although we understand that the accuracy is excellent out to 150 meters and our observation indicated 1-2 MOA. The optical sight accompanying the VSS has stadia specifically calibrated for the SP-5 Sniper armor piercing round.

We did disassemble the silencer the day following testing, and we noted some rust appearing on the baffles. This suggests that the ammunition may be corrosive. There was also noted to be significant carbon build-up on the outside of the barrel in the entrance chamber (that part which surrounds the ported section).

Summary

The 9x39mm cartridge is indeed a formidable piece of small arms ordnance. Although we only weighed the AP projectile, its weight of 245 grains, velocity of 924 ft/second and kinetic energy at the muzzle of 470 ft-lbs makes this a definitely lethal weapon. The VSS was pleasant enough to shoot. The trigger pull was among the better military triggers, and the recoil was not unpleasant.

Dan’s take: “I wouldn’t hesitate to consider the VSS or the AS-VAL for an operation in areas that contact is likely to be under 400 meters, and consider that forces who may encounter this weapon should train up on it. After reasonably extensive testing, I have a new respect for this weapon design, and look forward to testing more modern variants. Contrary to claims I had seen repeatedly written that the VSS couldn’t stand up to fully automatic fire, my opinion is that it certainly could, at least long enough to perform more than a few live fire mission s – in that case the VSS is an excellent choice as a close-in marksman’s rifle with serious AP capability, that can double as an effective SMG for close encounters”.

Phil’s take: “Although the suppressor system is an older, rudimentary design similar to other Russian offerings, that does not make it ineffective on the battlefield. This system is purpose designed to be a formidable weapons system. While we do not know which came first, the ammunition or the weapon, I suspect that they were designed as a package. The ammunition is definitely specialized to accomplish a specific task, and the weapon is designed to maximize the capability of the ammunition. As a 200-300 meter silent sniper system, it is hard to beat having a highly effective lethal subsonic projectile, outstanding penetration, reliable cycling, and fully automatic capability for when circumstances really go down the tube.

Olson, the first US Navy SEAL with the honor of leading USSOCOM, the world’s largest and most diversely capable assembly of counter-terror operatives, knows what he’s talking about.

Delivering the keynote address on the first of three days of the National Defense Industrial Association’s yearly February gathering of key government, military and private sector attendees, the combat-seasoned Admiral commanded the attention of several hundred high level attendees in Washington, DC’s stately Marriot Wardman Park Hotel with a tough and pragmatic look at the realities of what has come to be known as “Persistent Conflict.”

Left unspoken but understood by most in the audience are the underlying reasons behind recent disfavor of the term Global War On Terror and its decidedly bland replacement in official jargon, underscoring the likelihood of years and perhaps decades of struggle ahead.

While strongly affirming the continuing necessity for immediate “kinetic” solutions to specific challenges best met with direct action to kill or capture, Olson emphasized the long-term payoffs from “soft power that brings real and tangible value….”

“Decisive, enduring results,” the four-star former SEAL declared, come from “indirect approaches by contributing to (host nation) capabilities through advising, training, equipping, and transferring technology.”

As a result, America’s top Special Operator explained, a substantial percentage of USSOCOM’s 63,000 personnel are deployed to as many as 70 countries for a variety of missions including augmenting local military training, providing medical aid and humanitarian support. “They’re building long-term relationships…in every region in the world and we need them there for a long time.”

Devil in the Details

Seven panel discussions followed, reinforcing Olson’s observations on the harsh realities of long-term commitment to a wide spectrum approach for strengthening the ability of cooperating nations to combat destabilization from insurgencies, terrorism, narcotics smuggling and other criminal activities.

(Editor’s Note: Bullet point slides from panel participants and selected “white paper” presentations are posted for public access at www.dtic.mil/ndia/2009SOLIC/2009SOLIC.html).

Leading off the first panel, “Regional Views,” was the Operations Officer for SOCCENT (Special Operations Command Central), an area notable for a combined population of 650 million under heavy Islamic influence of which 40 percent make up the prime military demographic of males ages 15 to 29.

Although this is the best known theater of operations given the prominence of ongoing conflict in Iraq and Afghanistan, Lt. Colonel Chuck Miller, Jr. surprised few with the assertion that Pakistan, strategically vital for many reasons including its importance as a major land route for resupply to Coalition operations in Afghanistan, is “the world’s most dangerous place.”

Miller cited a combination of factors including Pakistan’s nuclear-capable, military-dominated Islamic government that has little power in the Swat Valley and other vast and rugged provinces bordering Afghanistan. There, impoverished people with strong tribal loyalties provide safe havens for a variety of militants with decidedly anti-Western sentiments.

Special Operations forces are taking an “enduring approach, paced out over time,” Miller said, in training and equipping the Pakistani Army for counterinsurgency.

The SOC Pacific perspective came from Lieutenant Colonel Brian Petit, 2nd Battalion commander in the Army’s 1st Special Forces Group. The Green Beret officer cited evidence of strong Red Chinese efforts to increase influence throughout the Asia-Pacific Rim, an enormous operational area containing more than 60 percent of the world’s population. He also noted positive developments arising from special operations assistance in a variety of forms to the Philippine government and military in the perennial struggle against Moro separatists and newer Islamic-influenced insurgencies.

Simmering conflicts in Central and South America don’t have the prominence of those in hot spots elsewhere. While speaking favorably of relationships with Brazil, Argentina and Chile in efforts to combat a range of organized criminal activities and official corruption, SOC South’s J3 (Operations Officer), Navy Commander Victor Hyder, revealed some troubling signs in Paraguay. Noting the disturbing presence of Lebanese operatives from the notorious Hezbollah and Hamas organizations, he believes that “all the networks a terrorist organization could use are in place in the region.”

Meanwhile over in Europe, NATO is standing up its new Special Operations Forces Coordination Center. French Navy Captain Bruno Julien de Zelicourt, SOFCC J3, noted its recent transition to an operational focus in Afghanistan. Looking ahead to the next decade, he detailed a list of global security risks including increased extremism and terrorism, nuclear proliferation, cyber war, plus the growing power and influence of overtly criminal organizations.

Technological Solutions

The panel discussion that followed, “Technology and Persistent Conflict,” was long on philosophical assertions and surprisingly short on hardware revelations. In contrast, Air Force Colonel Jim “Hondo” Gertz, program manager for fixed wing aircraft at USSOCOM, noted progress toward the goal of acquiring up to sixteen new C-27 SPARTAN aircraft configured as gunships.

SAR sees this as a particularly interesting development in light of steady progress with Boeing’s game-changing Advanced Tactical Laser for gunship applications, a program set in motion several years ago with an eye to replacing AFSOC’s fleet of aging C-130 flying firebases.

The session closed with a provocative paper on Lockheed Martin’s extensive experimentation with collection, processing and dissemination of practical intelligence derived from networked UxVs (land, sea and air robots). We highly recommend Dr. Miles Libby’s paper, “Special Reconnaissance/Unconventional Warfare – How about an UxV for a Teammate?” available in its complete form with text and illustrations at the DTIC website noted above.

Operational Realities

Navy Captain Tom Brown, Commander of Naval Special Warfare Group One, was the first presenter on Panel Three, “Views from the Practitioners,” adding to the impact of Libby’s observations by citing the favorable cost to benefit ratio of the Scan Eagle recon fixed wing. Originally developed to spot large schools of tuna for commercial fishing operations, Brown called it a “poor man’s Predator.” He also noted with favor the plans to upgrade combatant craft capabilities with new medium and heavy boats that are stealthier and have greater endurance.

US Army Green Beret Colonel Sean Mulholland, 7th Group Commander, detailed a classic “hearts and minds” strategic vision for counterinsurgency operations, Air Force Colonel Joseph Clem noted the success of a self-deployment exercise to Africa of four AFSOC CV-22 tilt rotor aircraft and Marine Major Mike Brooks cited MARSOC’s increasing involvement with FID (Foreign Internal Defense) activities, particularly in coastal regions.

Subsequent panels examined more esoteric aspects of Special Operations including the Human Dimension, Strategies, Training and Education, as well as Interagency Perspectives: this last one featuring representatives from Director of National Intelligence, Project on National Security Reform, and the State Department.

Target America

Those who stuck with the program to the very end got a special reward from retired General Barry McCaffrey, who is now free to speak the truth as he sees it. His address combined geopolitical realities with informed speculation, revealing certain things that may be officially denied but tacitly affirmed.

While there should be little argument with McCaffrey’s assertion that the growing number of nations with weapons of mass destruction, along with the spread of WMD technology, remains the principal threat to the American people, it’s hard to understand his apparent belief that global animosity toward the US will appreciably lessen under the Obama administration.

More controversial statements followed, particularly in a pair of bullet-point slides headed “Looking Toward the Future.” Among their provocative predictions: Russian hostility toward the US will grow, North Korea will implode and Iran will go nuclear, forging an alliance with Sunni Arabs to further destabilize the region.

The former commander of US Southern Command also foresees confrontation closer at home with a politically and financially destabilized Venezuela and that Cuba’s totalitarian regime will lose its grip after Castro dies, unleashing a flood of a quarter-million refugees on the US. And right on our southern border, he cites a “desperate” situation caused by Mexico’s violent criminal drug cartels in Mexico.

Last but not least came the chilling prediction that “terrorists will strike at America during the (Obama) administration’s first term.”

Exhibit Hall

Because this event strongly favors the interests of senior military leaders, a large percentage of the sixty exhibitors are major players in the defense establishment. Their often elaborate displays usually feature high end items recently adopted and fielded or those that are moving through the procurement bureaucracy. Extra interest accrues to the proponents of goods and services favorably mentioned by speakers in the symposium.

For example, such things as Boeing’s A160T HUMMINGBIRD UAV, the multi-national consortium’s C-27J SPARTAN tactical cargo plane, General Dynamics’ submersibles, Lockheed Martin’s UxVs, and tactical radios from Thales Communications and Harris Corp., attract the lion’s share of attendees.

Gun Guys

While there was plenty more to see that represents a wide spectrum of things applicable to worldwide special operations, SAR’s interest is primarily with individual and crew-served weaponry. So our first stop was at NAVSEA Crane’s Special Missions Center (SMC) display booth to catch up on the latest developments in ammo, arms, and accessories.

SMC supports the Department of Defense joint capability areas of Special Operations, Irregular Warfare and Maritime/Littoral/Expeditionary Operations. They’re the go-to source for elite warfighters including SEALs and Special Warfare Combatant Craft Crewmen. Kevin Banker, a Senior Engineering Tech, was holding down the fort and he proved most helpful in our quest.

Banker walked us through specifics on the three representative weapons on display starting with the 5.56mm MK 16 Mod 0 (FN’s Special Operations Forces Combat Assault Rifle-Light), the newest member of the NAVSPECWAR family. SCAR-L was the first to be deployed in a family of modular weapons from FN that now includes a 7.62mm version and an innovative clamp-on 40mm grenade launcher.

A Crane-modified 5.56mm M4 type carbine with handy 10.5 inch barrel came next, designated MK 18 Mod 0. This one was particularly noteworthy for several add-ons and accessories arising from the SOPMOD (Special Operations Peculiar Modification) program and subsequent enhancements. In addition to a sloping cheekweld telescoping buttstock, Banker identified items on the top rails such as the SU-231 PEQ ECOS-CQB day scope in line with the SU-232/PAS CNVD-T thermal night scope.

Then there was a 5.56mm M16 flat top, tipped with a Knight’s Quick Disconnect sound suppressor. The rifle’s Daniel Defense Rail Interface System carried just about all of the latest version day/night/CQB sights in the NAVSPECWAR inventory. In addition to flip-up iron sights front and rear, the top rail surface sported Elcan’s SU-230/PVS Enhanced Combat Optical Sight 1-4 power Variable Articulated Telescope with piggyback Docter red dot. The snout of this versatile combo was hidden under the light-hiding “skirt” of L-3 Comm’s exciting new rubber-armored AN/PVS-24 Clip-on Night Vision Device Image Intensified, a Gen III starlight magnifier of exceptional amplification and clarity. www.crane.navy.mil

Also represented at Crane’s booth was NAVSEA Dahlgren’s Test & Evaluation Division, providing a wide range of services including a 20 mile long over-water live fire test range, explosive experimental area, and a state-of-the-art shock and vibration testing facility. They shoot helmets too, as seen in the form of a well-perforated PASGT “K-Pot” on the display table that had been used in multi-caliber evaluation firing.

JSSAP

Another “must see” display is the Joint Service Small Arms Program, an Army-administered clearinghouse for weapons technology in support of operations by all of the US Armed Forces. Retired Army Colonel Joseph Kaelin, whom we have known for many years, was on duty there and brought us up to date on developments in LSAT, the Lightweight Small Arms Technologies program.

“The caseless track is progressing well,” Kaelin said, “and there are plans to conduct a public demonstration firing at NDIA’s Small Arms conference in May 2009.”

This is a significant development given the many technological challenges inherent in manufacturing caseless ammunition and designing a mechanism to efficiently fire it. All the more so, we observe, in a belt fed machine gun intended to equal or better the performance of the current M249 Squad Automatic Weapon at considerably lighter weight.

Alas, there was no additional information to be had on engineering details of the caseless gun’s inner workings. “You’ll have to wait until that’s cleared for release,” Kaelin advised. Their website is at: www.pica.army.mil

Super Snipers

Precision rifles and their suppressors are of great interest to us, particularly in the context of special operations. The ability to take out “high value” individual targets at long range with minimal chance of detection by those on the receiving end is an important force multiplier.

Shooters Depot has been getting a good deal of attention recently with their Advanced Rifle Integral External Suppressor, a clever and cost-effective system for retrofitting favorite sniper rifles. George Koumbis, SD’s CEO and creator of the A.R.I.E.S. system, showed us his latest version as fitted to a Steyr SSG.

A strong and light carbon fiber tube surrounds the weapon’s existing barrel, screwing into a threaded ring at the chamber end. The tube is free floating with significant air space for gas and heat generated on firing. The new two-piece suppressor module has the end cap attached to the perforated sound buffer unit and this assembly screws into a fitted length of carbon fiber tubing the same diameter as the barrel shroud. Assembly and disassembly can be done without tools and cleaning is a snap.

Koumbis points out a list of advantages beginning with adaptability. Existing weapons need not be replaced so operator and armorer experience is retained with no retraining and parts restocking needed. Also, there’s exceptional reduction in noise, flash and recoil with no change in the point of bullet impact. The strong and light carbon fiber tubing contributes to an overall component weight of about 1.5 pounds plus heat shielding for no mirage to mounted optics. Cost is also very reasonable with most conversions beginning at around $2,000. www.shootersdepot.com

The Kiesler Defense booth showed a comprehensive line of weapons and equipment for military and law enforcement applications. There, the futuristic lines of SIG Sauer’s new TACTICAL 2 precision rifle caught our eye. SIG’s Dane Davis showed us how the operator can customize adjustments on the synthetic buttstock and demonstrated quick-change of the barrel and bolt modules for three popular long range cartridges. Ultra fast cycling of the straight pull action comes from a clever radial bolt head that expands on locking and the trigger is fully adjustable for position, pull and stop. www.kiesler.com

Crew Served Weapons

Belt fed guns and their various mounting options also rate high with us so we always make it a point to seek them out.

After extensively reporting on the development and initial deployment of the Army’s Common Remotely Operated Weapon System we take some pride in seeing how Kongsberg’s CROWS II and others in its PROTECTOR family are proliferating throughout US and allied armed forces. A fully operational CROWS II with .50 caliber M2HB machine gun was in place at their booth, steadily attracting visitors who wanted a turn on the joystick-operated video control. Website located at: www.kongsberg.com

Noting the relative heavy weight, cost and complexity of the PROTECTOR line and similar powered remote mounts, Nobles manufacturing has developed the VIPER GUN SYSTEM, reportedly at the request of Army Special Operations Command. This one man operated, attended gun station is also called the WIP (Weapons Interchange Platform) and it uses common components that are operator-configurable in about 15 minutes to accept the M230LF, LW25, MK19 and MK47, M3P3 and M134 guns.

Traverse and elevation are muscle powered for simplicity and Nobles’ patent-pending GMBS (Gun Mount Braking System) is said to provide superior stabilization during firing. This is particularly important for the heavy-recoiling 30mm M230LF auto cannon that’s the first weapon fully integrated into the planned VIPER line. www.noblesmfg.com.

Feeding The Tiger

Ammunition was hard to find at the event and what was seen was mostly 40mm grenades, suitable for high and low impulse launch platforms. American Rheinmetall Munitions, Inc., the US arm of the famous European defense giant, displayed the largest variety. We were interested to learn from Walt Galvin that their MK281 40mm high velocity practice rounds for MK 19 and MK 47 grenade machine guns are now US made. USMC and USSOCOM are said to be primary clients, utilizing both the original Mod 0 and now the new Mod 1 with a special marking powder that is visible at night using NVGs.

American Rheinmetall is also proud to introduce the new 66mm VIRSS-L114A1 smoke screening cartridge for the projector tubes mounted on many armored fighting vehicles. This round generates a thick and persistent cloud of smoke and special infrared screening components to defeat visual and IR observation, aiming equipment, sensor-guided weapons, beam riders, plus laser illuminators and rangefinders. Their website is located at: www.americanrheinmetall.com

Free-Ranging ROVER

There are a number of suitable ways to present multiple, moving targets for somewhat realistic sniper training but we’re unaware of any that can compare with Marathon Robotics’ new ROVER system, our favorite find at the event.

Marathon’s Dr. Alexei Makarenko told us that ROVER resulted from combat experience of Australian military special operators in Central Command’s AO. It seems there were too many instances when precision shooters were frustrated by not being able to effectively engage multiple individuals due to the universal reaction of “hear a shot and scatter.”

Video trainers and rail-running targets just didn’t do the job because the first type doesn’t allow long range, open air shooting and the second is too predicable. Marathon, funded by the Australian Department of Defense, has met the challenge with a “smart” robotic system featuring a team of independently moving lifelike target mannequins that can execute complex pre-planned scenarios.

“They can move in and out of buildings, momentarily hidden from observation, or pause behind open windows,” Makarenko said, describing how the system works in the realistic urban training complex built for sniper training. “They’ll come out from different doorways and join the flow of other robots moving around the town square.”

Existing technologies are a key to the relative low cost and flexibility of the system. Marathon’s engineering team started with the novel but well-proven SEGWAY scooter, a battery-powered, gyrostabilized two wheel mobility platform giving fast human-like motion to a life size 3D polymer mannequin. “They lean forward to accelerate, rearwards to stop and they can turn abruptly,” Makarenko explained, “presenting a real challenge for the shooter to track and hit them on the move.”

An onboard computer gives the robot a “brain” with a combination of programmed actions, remote control and stimulus-driven responses. Each ROVER has a GPS and a scanning laser rangefinder for navigation as well as obstacle detection and avoidance. High speed wireless Ethernet is used to communicate with a central control station and with other robots to allow remote monitoring, interactive control and multi-’bot coordination.

“Reaction in a shooting scenario is amazingly realistic,” Makarenko asserted. “When a robot is shot it provides instant feedback by stopping and its mannequin drops backward. Simultaneously, it sends a signal to all the others and they quickly scatter, running to the nearest cover.”

This is a big part of the system’s payoff in realistic training for fast, multiple target engagement when the first “terrorist” is hit and there are precious few seconds to get one or more of his fleeing accomplices. Scoring feedback for shooters and evaluators comes from the robot’s acoustic sensors, discriminating between hits to the torso or head and spine.

No joystick control is needed so a single instructor can conduct intricate programmed scenarios for long duration with multiple robots. Also, the “script” can be changed in the middle of an exercise if desired, adding layers of complexity unattainable with other systems.

The 265 pound ROVER ‘bots are pretty tough, Makarenko told us. “In addition to being able to operate for many hours at a time day and night in heavy rain, we’ve put armor plate shielding over vital areas of the mobility components.” www.marathon-robotics.com

NDIA’s Special Operations/Low Intensity Conflict Division

The National Defense Industrial Association’s SO/LIC Division was formed as an industry-based advocacy group and forum to discuss the utility of our Special Operations Forces (SOF) across the conflict spectrum – particularly in those cases below the level of conventional war in what is called Low Intensity Conflict (LIC).

Its mission is to assist industry, government and the public in understanding the role of SOF in our national security strategy and how these forces are integrated within our national military structure. In fulfilling this mission, the division facilitates contact and cooperation between industry and SOF in order to help assure that they will have access to the ideas and technologies that originate in our nation’s industrial and academic base.

Through meetings and symposia, the division provides information on the wide range of matters involving SOF, LIC and related national security issues including both traditional combat roles and today’s emphasis on such missions as counter narcotics, combating terrorism, helping to control the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, force protection, humanitarian assistance, and peacekeeping.

Detailed information on NDIA and its SO/LIC Division, as well as next year’s symposium, is available at www.ndia.org

Warrior Foundation

The brotherhood of SPECOPS is particularly strong and all the more so when its fallen warriors and their families need help. Since 1980, the Special Operations Warrior Foundation has been providing immediate financial assistance to severely wounded personnel. The foundation also pays for college education of surviving children. SAR urges our readers to contact the foundation and explore ways to help with their good work. www.specialops.org

United States Special Operations Command

USSOCOM, headquartered at MacDill Air Force Base, Florida, has approximately 63,000 active duty, Reserve and National Guard Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines, and Department of Defense civilians.

Its four components are USASOC (US Army Special Operations Command), NAVSPECWARCOM (Navy Special Warfare Command), AFSOC (Air Force Special Operations Command), and MARSOC (Marine Corps Forces Special Operations Command).

Core activities include direct action, special reconnaissance, unconventional warfare, foreign internal defense, civil affairs/psychological/information operations, counterterrorism and counterinsurgency, counterproliferation of WMDs (Weapons of Mass Destruction), security force assistance, and the catch-all category of “activities specified by the President or Secretary of Defense.”

USSOCOM has a worldwide reach with six geographic combatant commands: SOC Central, SOC Europe, SOC Pacific, SOC Korea, SOC South, and SOC Africa. www.ussocom.mil

Even suited to the sangfroid of James Bond, the Walther PPK has seen widespread popularity since its design and creation in 1931. Described as the “perfect personal weapon” for detectives, intelligence agents and others of that dangerous near-nether world, the classic PPK has become quite collectible in its past nearly eight decades. These compact pistols have won fans and imitators all over the world.

The PPK is an offspring of the respected German PP semiautomatic police and military pistol. The PP in both models stands for Polizei Pistole, and the K represents Kriminal, which translates from the German to “detective” rather than criminal in English. Designed by Fritz Walther, the PP first came on the market in 1929 as a standard police issue handgun in Germany. Its popularity quickly grew with official adoption and resultant sales.

The PPK was developed two years after the introduction of the PP as a smaller gun designed for use in undercover police and intelligence operations. The PPK retained the mechanical benefits of the PP, but in a far more compact design. The original lineup of PP and PPK models included European 7.35mm, 7.65mm, 9mm Kurtz and the American .22 LR, .25 ACP, .32 ACP, and .380 ACP. However, the 7.35mm, the 9mm Kurtz and the .25 caliber model guns were quickly cut from production.

The PPK chambered a new era of semiautomatic pistol. Although it was not the first double-action semiautomatic pistol on the market, it sure has earned unprecedented acceptance. The Walther design’s quality and success soon convinced police, military and intelligence units from nations worldwide to either adopt the PPK, copy it outright, or use creative inspiration to adapt it to local production, e.g., the Soviet Makarov, the Stetchkin, the Hungarian PA 63, and the Czech CZ 50. In Turkey, the pre-war Walther PPK was manufactured under license for both military and civilian use. The Gestapo preferred the PPK 7.65mm during the Nazi regime of World War II, and specimens from that era bear swastikas on the grip plates. Hitler’s own official carry gun was a 7.65mm PPK, which he used to kill himself in April of 1945.

Because the PPK was readily suited for undercover and intelligence work, it became a worldwide pistol of choice. It was compact, reliable and has good stopping power, so, many of the post-war intelligence agencies standardized the PPK. In addition to the U.K.’s MI5 and MI6, the PPK has been used by German BND, Frances’ SDECE, Israel’s Mossad and Switzerland’s Intelligence and Security Service, as well as by Canada, France and the United States. The Chinese intelligence service actually issued a PPK clone to some of their operatives.

Germany had manufactured both the PP and the PPK models through to the end of World War II. More than 150,000 PPKs were produced in Germany during the course of the war. However, as a result of losing WWII, German ordnance factories went out of business. Because their land was occupied by the Soviets in what would be known as East Germany, Walther quickly fled into the Western zone, where they established a new factory in Ulm producing business machines.

Why no guns? For several years following the war, the Allied powers forbade any manufacture of weapons in Germany. As a result, Walther licensed its gun manufacturing division to the Manurhin plant in the French province of Alsace in 1952. Although some phases of production were resumed in Germany in 1957, after the ban on German gun production was lifted, the Manurhin plant carried a significant portion of PPK production through the mid ’80s. All postwar European-made PPK pistols manufactured through 1986 were manufactured by Manurhin, even though the pistol slide may bear the markings of the Walther factory in Ulm. Walther resumed full production in Ulm in 1986.

Meantime, sales of Walther PPKs soared in the U.S., partly due to government contracts, but, mostly due to the huge popularity of the James Bond movies, in which the PPK was Bond’s official handgun, starting with Dr. No in 1958. Until that time, Bond had carried a rather ladylike Beretta 418.

Geoffrey Boothroyd, a British ordnance expert and author, contacted Ian Fleming in the mid ’50s about Bond needing a “real man’s gun” and the PPK was chosen. In the film, an actor portraying Boothroyd, known in the films as Q, tells Bond and M, his boss, “The Walther PPK. 7.65 mm, has a delivery like a brick through a plate glass window. Takes a Brausch silencer with very little reduction in muzzle velocity. The American CIA swear by them.”

American collectors and even just fans of the Bond films were buying up the PPK handguns. By the mid ’60s, America was by far Walther’s largest market for PPK pistols. However, a major setback to the manufacture and distribution of the PPK came in 1968, when new U.S. Treasury Department requirements for imported handguns left the PPK short – literally. The PPK was a tenth of an inch shy of the new four-inch minimum vertical measurement, and less than an ounce short of the standard’s established by America’s ill-considered Gun Control Act of 1968.

To overcome this new legal barrier to sales in the United States, Walther introduced the PPK/S model with the S standing for “special.” This new design combined the slide, barrel, and spring of the PPK with the larger frame of the original PP model, a change that added slightly more than an ounce of weight, which resulted in a gun that met the new American import laws. Production of the PPK/S began in the 1969.

Later, because U.S. law allowed domestic production of the PPK, Ranger Manufacturing in Alabama was licensed to manufacture the PPK and PPK/S in 1978. The guns were distributed by Interarms. After the death of iconic founder Sam Cummings, Interarms business slipped badly. Umarex, now the corporate parent company of Walther, began discussions with Smith & Wesson’s owners.

Since 2007, Smith and Wesson has been licensed to manufacture the PPK and PPK/S. Also, with the exception of the PP and the new PPK/E model, the United States is the only source for new PPK-type pistols.

Sadly, in 1999, the cinematic Bond had turned in his PPK for a newly issued Walther P99 in the forgettable film, The World is not Enough. Happily, though, many fans, collectors and serious users still covet their own PPKs.

With events such as school shootings, increased ability, use of body armor and 911, law enforcement agencies have been updating their armories. Perhaps the Homeland Security grants help many agencies get equipment they normally would not have the money to procure. Small town police departments are starting emergency response teams and training in schools in the event history repeats itself in their jurisdiction.

The patrol carbine has either been added to the police arsenal for select officers or replaced the shotgun all together. The carbine offers the ability for an officer to handle situations he would normally have to call a SWAT team in for. It provides individual firepower of both accuracy and penetration that can not be obtained with a pistol or shotgun.

The patrol carbine is not selective fire, but semiautomatic only. However, the weapon provides all the benefits of the combat proven M4 carbine such as accuracy, reliability, versatility and the ability to mount accessories. There are many patrol carbines on the market today. Among the most prolific is the Colt Law Enforcement Carbine (LE6920). This will be the baseline rifle to build the ideal patrol carbine.

The Colt Law Enforcement Carbine (LE6920)

The Colt Law Enforcement Carbine is the premier patrol carbine in the country. The carbine provides all the reliability enhancements of the combat proven Colt M4 carbine. Several things set this carbine aside from the competition. Colt Defense is one of the few firearms manufacturers whom have their own in-house metrology laboratory. Prior to raw materials being received by Colt, samples are taken of the material to insure that the materials are what they say and are made to Colt specifications. Due to Colt being a government contractor all their parts receive the same quality control and standards regardless of their status as military, commercial or law enforcement weapons – there is one standard. All bolts and barrels are proof tested with a 70,000 psi proof cartridge and then magnetic particle inspected to insure no defects in material. All firearms are test fired and targeted before they leave the factory. The law enforcement weapons also benefit from any upgrade or improvement to the government issue M4. The aforementioned reasons are why the author chose the LE6920 as the baseline firearm.

The LE6920 has a 16.1 inch barrel which is rifled with a 1:7 inch twist. The barrel is chrome plated and has a step-cut for installation of a M203 grenade launcher. This ability may be important if the agency wishes to mount a M203 to deploy less than lethal munitions or gas. The rifle comes standard with a compensator and M4 double heat shield handguards. The flattop Mil-Std 1913 upper receiver has a detachable carrying handle mounted to it and the rifle is equipped with a four position telescopic stock. The rifle weighs a light 5.95 pounds. No functional components of the rifle’s mechanism should be altered. This could cause the weapon to malfunction or an unintentional discharge. The trigger mechanism, buffer and bolt carrier group should not be altered nor modified in any way. This should also be in accordance with most police agencies policies and procedures.

Building a Patrol Carbine from the Back to the Front

The stock that the LE6920 comes with is more than suitable for a patrol carbine. Based on examination of numerous different stocks, there are two reasons why you may want to replace it. First is if the carbine will utilize optics that require batteries and second is if the rifle stock is uncomfortable for the shooter. The optic that was chosen for this patrol carbine utilizes standard AA batteries and if those batteries were to die at an inopportune moment, it could be catastrophic to the officer. After looking at many stock options, the stocks were narrowed down based on military drop testing results and their ability to store batteries for the optic. The three top stocks found are the VLTOR E-Mod stock, the VLTOR Modstock and the Lewis Machine and Tool SOPMOD stock. The one chosen for this patrol carbine is the VLTOR Modstock. The Modstock has two battery storage compartments that will accept AA and 123 batteries. The stock has an extremely comfortable triangular shape cheek weld making it significantly more comfortable than the standard GI stock. It is compact enough so that an officer wearing body armor will be comfortable. The VLTOR E-Mod stock has similar features, is built stronger than any other stock examined and has a club-foot design. It is longer, has a rubber butt pad and also has a battery storage compartment along with an additional compartment that would hold batteries or spare parts. The Modstock was found to be more comfortable and easier to manipulate by the author. The LM&T SOPMOD stock, like the VLTOR stocks, has a battery storage compartment but unlike the VLTOR stocks, the SOPMOD stock must be removed from the rifle and the storage tubes removed to retrieve the batteries. The VLTOR stock just has to have the watertight caps removed. The smoothness of the SOPMOD stock makes it extremely comfortable and is easy to manipulate. The SOPMOD stock is combat tested and is standard equipment on most all Navy and SOCOM Colt M4A1 carbines and Mk18 Mod0 carbines. There are many options out there and these are but a few. Another plus found with VLTOR is in their combo kit comes a 5-position receiver extension, Mil-Spec diameter. There are numbers on top of the receiver extension alerting the operator to what position it is set.

Additionally to the stock is the various ways to mount a sling. The VLTOR stocks all have receptacles for a quick detachable sling swivel and they can be mounted left or right side of the stock. Trends today point to another direction as there is significant interest in 1-point sling adapters. This design attaches the sling to a mount located at the rear of the lower receiver of the rifle. The stock attaches by a clamp to the adapter. These are offered by many manufacturers. The one chosen is the one made by VLTOR and is a universal adapter. There is a screw and bushing that allow the adapter to be mounted to either the left or right side of the rifle. This requires removal of the receiver extension of the rifle and replacing the receiver end plate with the 1-point sling adapter receiver end plate. This should only be done by a qualified and properly trained armorer. The receiver locking nut must be properly torqued down and staked.

Most patrol carbines will be equipped with optics. If the weapon is not, the detachable carrying handle that comes with the LE6920 may be used effectively. There is no need to replace it. Iron sights are very effective as they have been since the firearm was invented. This patrol carbine will utilize an optic so a BUIS (Back-Up Iron Sight) should be used. This sight allows in the event of an optic failure for the operator to get back into the fight by engaging the BUIS and firing the rifle with iron sights. Many of the rifle/optic combinations will offer co-witness with the iron sights through the optic. There are numerous BUIS’ available on the market and three were identified as being the most durable and battle proven designs. First is the Knight’s Armament Company BUIS. This sight is offered in two models; one which is adjustable for windage only and the other is elevation as well as windage. These sights have been in use by SOCOM for many years on their M4A1 carbines, Mk12Mod 0 SPR and Mk18 Mod 0 CQB carbine. The second is the A.R.M.S. #40-L. This is a folding sight that has both flip up long and short range apertures and can be had with 1/2 inch MOA click at 100 yards adjustments. The entire #40 series are spring loaded and latched with a lever. The lever is pulled and the sight is engaged. All #40 BUIS are adjustable for windage only. The third, and the one placed on this patrol carbine, is the Matech BUIS. This BUIS is standard issue for the U.S. armed forces. Initially developed for the Air Force, this BUIS is adjustable for windage as well as elevation. A lever on the left side of the BUIS allows the shooter to adjust elevation from 200 to 600 meter. Again, there are many choices in the industry and these are the most widely used and proven designs.

Most patrol carbines will be required to have a tactical light mounted to them. In fact, many patrol carbine courses require them. There are several ways to mount tactical lights to an M4-type rifle and some are better than others. The first and least preferable method is mounting the light directly to the barrel. These mounts are easily broken or damaged and longer hand held flashlights are used. The second is purchasing a set of handguards with a built in tactical light such as the Surefire model M500A Millennium fore end that replace the handguards the weapon is provided with. Although an excellent design, it is expensive and does not offer much versatility. The other and most exercised option is the use of a rail system. There are several tactical flashlight options available on the market today and the one chosen for this patrol carbine is the Insight Tech-Gear M3X tactical light. Mounted to the end of the right rail this light could be activated by either a switch or a pressure pad. The pressure pad was utilized and mounted to a Colt Grip Laser (CGL). With the switch being set to MOM (momentary) position the light is controlled by the pressure pad. This system enables the officer to move covertly and light applied at the exact moment needed.

Tactical Laser Sights

For law enforcement/military use, laser sights have proven itself beyond reproach. Maybe the best tool you can give a police officer is a tool which may prevent them from having to fire their weapon and the laser sight does just that. The media has actually helped law enforcement in this area as the use of laser sights are shown in many action movies. People universally know if they see a red dot on them something really bad could happen and makes them think twice if they should really be doing what they are doing. Many officers have stated that in real world situations, the potentially lethal situation was defused by using a laser sight on the suspect. The intimidation factor is, in this author’s opinion, the number one benefit of the laser sight, with the second being accuracy and the third speed. When shooting around corners, from confined locations and under abnormal conditions where the weapon can not be brought to the shooters shoulder, the use of a laser will permit an accurately placed shot in a close quarter battle (CGB) environment. The laser sight will also increase the speed of the shot by enabling the officer to get off a well aimed shot before he brings the optic to eye level.

There are many options for lasers: some are large and some are small. You have red, green, orange and, for departments who use night vision, there are infrared lasers. They are mounted to the rail of a handguard, spring guide of a pistol or a multi diode box (PEQ 2 and 4). For rifles, the most effective way is to mount inline with the bore. In this case, the laser needs to be mounted under the barrel in the 6 o’clock position. Lasers that are mounted to the side are only accurate at the specific zeroed range. As the target gets closer and further away from that point it will shift left or right depending on which side of the rail it was mounted. If your side mounted laser was zeroed to point of aim at 10 yards, your point of aim will usually be off the target as close as 25 yards. Two lasers were chosen and performed well at all CQB ranges (0 to 50 yards). The first one, and the one chosen for this patrol carbine, was the Colt CGL (Colt Foregrip Laser). This combines an inline with bore laser sight and a track light for discrete illumination a vertical pistol grip. The laser is zeroed by the user and has adjustments for both windage and elevation. The laser, by a switch, can be constant on or pulsate. The track light can be used for low level discrete illumination not to be confused with a full power tactical light that is designed to light up a room. Another benefit is that it uses normal AA batteries that are affordable and common as opposed to expensive 123A batteries. The second choice was a light and laser combo manufactured by Insight Tech Gear, the M6X. This combines a high power tactical light with a laser. A switch allows it to allow light only, laser only or laser and light. Also there is another switch to permit an off position, a momentary (uses a pressure pad) or constant on. This model attaches right to any Mil-Std 1913 rail and may be used on a rifle or handgun. The lasers used for this article were zeroed in with a laser bore sight at 10 yards to point of aim. The laser consistently held center match out to 50 yards which was as far as the low level light shooting was done.

Rail Systems for the Tactical Rifle

Rail systems will replace the handguards. Quad Mil-Std 1913 rails are offered allowing multiple attachments to be utilized on the rifle such as tactical light, vertical pistol grip, laser designator, and optic or night vision scopes. While there are many rail systems available, few are really tried and tested in combat. Two rail systems were looked at based on their combat usage and their tried performance. The Knight’s Armament Company M4 RAS system perhaps is perhaps the most widely utilized rail system for the M4 platform of rifles in use today. This rail is supplied with every M4 carbine Colt Defense ships to the U.S. military. The U.S. Marine Corps has the M5 RAS mounted on all of the M16A4 rifles that they procure. This rail is mounted in less than a minute to the LE6920. The handguards are removed and the spring loaded tongue on the front of the rail is inserted under the lip of the handguard cap and a mounting bracket sits over the gas tube and when screwed in, locks into the barrel nut. The lower handguard front end is inserted inside the lip of the handguard cap and locked in place by the delta ring. This model is shown on this patrol carbine. Also shown is the A.R.M.S. SIR System. This is another proven rail system that sees use all over the world. Several models are offered. The #50C is easily adapted to any rifle and needs no modifications to the rifle. The sleeve is attached to the Mil-Std 1913 rail on the upper receiver and a bracket secures the front of the system to the barrel nut. This system offers a free floated barrel and quad rails. Shown is the #50M-CV that was developed for the special operations forces. This handguard requires the delta ring, spring and slip ring be removed. The rail attaches directly to the barrel nut. This is a slimline and sleek rail. The SIR system has an additional advantage: the barrel is left to free float increasing accuracy and promotes cooling. Any one of these rail systems will enable the patrol carbine to have the versatility of the M4 carbine and allow the officer to attach whatever accessories that will help him complete his mission.

Folding Front Sight Assembly

As received, the Colt LE6920 carbine comes with the standard front sight tower that is typical on every rifle regardless of the manufacturer. Most rifles are equipped with folding rear sights but the front is still stationary. Often, the front sight assembly is an obstruction to optics placed on the rail. Many current weapons are being designed with folding front sights. A.R.M.S., Inc released at the 2008 SHOT Show their #41-B Silhouette folding front sight assembly. Perhaps the finest folding front sight in the market, this folding front sight is offered in two configurations. For existing rifles with pinned on front sight bases, A.R.M.S. offers a 41-B, which is attached by two bolts to the barrel. The flash suppressor/compensator and two taper pins are removed from the front sight base is removed. The gas tube is placed and pinned in the 41-B and placed back on the rifle. The front sight base is squared and tightened down to approximately 45 inch pounds. The second version is pinned on just like the standard Colt front sight base. This is done with a clean barrel which has never been drilled for use with taper pins. The 41-B is easily engaged with one finger and has the triangular shape of the standard front sight base. To disengage, merely push downward on the arm behind the front sight base and the sight will fold. A folding front sight is an enhancement for any rifle that utilizes optics.

Don’t Forget the Southpaws

For those with left handed officers, some quick modifications can be made to the rifle to accommodate the southpaw. When the Canadian military went to the mid-life update of their C7 rifle to the C7A2, the rifle was to be ambidextrous by modifying two critical components. First was the charging handle. The standard latch was replaced with a latch that extended to the right side enabling a lefty to easily operate the bolt. Most left handed shooters will actuate the bolt with the charging handle instead of the bolt catch. The second is they added an ambidextrous magazine release that required no modification to the rifle. It is manufactured by Norgon and licensed to Colt Canada for them to produce. The button is located on the rear of the left side of the mag release. The Norgon ambidextrous magazine release is easily manipulated with the left hand and, in some cases, is a benefit to right handed shooters as well.

If the department has a newly manufactured Colt LE6920 manufactured over the last year, the new rifles have a reversible selector lever. Colt Defense developed a reversible selector lever that only requires the pistol grip removed, hammer removed and the selector lever pulled out and inserted from the opposite side. This new and improved selector lever is also longer and easier to manipulate as well as stronger. These new selector levers are for semiautomatic rifles only and can be purchased from Specialized Armament Warehouse.

The charging handle can just as well be easily altered to make it more accessible to left handed shooters. Actually, this modification can just as easily benefit the right handed shooter as well. For this rifle, the Precision Reflex, Inc. Gas Buster charging handle sports a large release latch this is accessible to right and left shooters alike.

Optics for the Patrol Carbine

Choosing the proper optic is very important. The most practical optic for a patrol carbine is a reflex sight or a red dot sight without magnification. Most police confrontations are going to be at extreme close quarters within rooms or buildings and shots beyond 50 yards are rare. Magnified optics has their place on containment weapons. However, magnified optics are a poor choice for CQB. If magnified optics is required, they should not exceed 4X. Beyond that it is more difficult to obtain a clear sight picture quickly and the acquisition is affected by rather little movement.

Three reflex sights were considered. The first, and one chosen, is the AimPoint Comp 4 red dot sight. This sight is issued by the U.S. Armed Forces. It is powered by commercially available AA batteries with an extended battery life. The optic is wide open and allows use of peripheral vision as both eyes should be open. The size of the dot and its intensity can be adjusted by a dial. The battery life is an amazing 80,000 hours with a good quality battery. The second optic looked at was the EOTech holographic sight, model 512.A65/1. This is a holographic sight powered by two commercial AA batteries and the intensity of the crosshair in a circle reticle’s brightness can be adjusted. The optic has a wide screen as well for excellent depth perception. The third one looked at was the brand new Trijicon model RX30 reflex sight that is based off their combat proven reflex sight. This one is really an improvement over the old in a couple areas. The much larger 42mm objective increases the operator’s peripheral vision and the sight is powered by both fiber optics and a tritium lamp. What this means is no batteries. Although significantly larger than its predecessor, it is well worth it. This world class reflex sight will find a heavy following in the law enforcement market.

Selecting a Magazine

The magazine is the heart and sole of the rifle. Current aluminum magazines have served the rifle well but have always been thought of as the weapon’s weakest link. The design intent of the magazine was for it to be disposable. The magazine works well but is easily damaged. Leaving aluminum magazines loaded over extended periods of time can cause the feed lips to separate as well as the spot welds to break on top of the magazine. Until recently, there were no options for product improved magazines. The early attempts with synthetic magazines were a failure. Early plastic magazines were brittle and broke very easily. The Canadians developed a polymer magazine but their Army rejected it in favor of the aluminum ones. However, their second try gave a decent reliable magazine. But those would never be imported into the U.S. Magpul Industries designed and produced their polymer magazine, the PMag and, based on experience gained, is perhaps the finest magazine in the world for the black rifle. Utilizing advanced polymer, these synthetic magazines solve many of the reliability and durability issues that have plagued the aluminum magazine since its inception. The PMag feed lips are stronger than those of the aluminum and, unlike aluminum or steel, polymer has no memory. Of you drop an aluminum magazine and the material bends, it stays that way. The PMag will go back to its form. If it is damaged, you will know it because the magazine would break. The aluminum one will not be realized until it fails in the rifle. The PMag will offer longer durability, reliable if left loaded for extended periods of time as well as it is designed to load to its full 30-round capacity and insert easily in a rifle with a closed bolt.

Building a patrol carbine is the combination of a reliable weapon, effective optic, emergency back up sights as well as a good tactical light. Of course there are other gadgets, but the bare bone necessities are what we discuss. There are many ways to go about this. There are a number of manufacturers making excellent accessories. It is important to do your homework: determine what type of area you operate in and from there you map out what your needs are.

In the world of shoulder-fired weapons, when you combine big projectiles and high capacity feeding devices, eyes start to open. When you can throw the phrases “low cost” and “reliable” into the mix you will own the moment.

Shotguns have been an important part of the American firearms landscape for hundreds of years. Credited primarily as a tool for many good men to feed and protect their families and flocks, they soon became popular “sporting arms” also used in competition. As firearms evolved to repeating actions from the original muzzle-loaders and early side-by-sides, the military and law enforcement began to take notice as well. While some modern shotguns still heavily resemble their original roots, others have traveled far from their family tree and look and function more like modern military arms than the scatterguns of days long gone.

Along with the continuous evolution of firearms in general, innovation in the “support role” category follows closely behind. In this particular instance, a somewhat traditional semiautomatic action of popular origin has been transformed from mild to wild with the adaptation of a detachable, high-capacity feeding device. Today we are testing the 20-round drum magazine from MD Arms, Ltd. designed for use with the Saiga-12 gauge shotgun.

Essentially a heavily modified Kalashnikov design, the Saiga firearms are available in numerous gauges and also several rifle calibers. The Saiga-12 shotgun itself will be covered in-depth in a later issue of Small Arms Review magazine as space permits.

Since the Saiga-12 is a magazine-fed semiautomatic shotgun with a 5-round detachable magazine, it had an immediate appeal over the more traditional and long available semiautomatic shotguns because the capacity was not predetermined by means of a fixed “tube” or other feeding device. Fortunately for those of us waiting for such an event it was only a short matter of time before someone stepped up to increase the capacity, and thanks to MD Arms, Ltd., it has been accomplished.

The MD-20 is a 20-round drum magazine specifically manufactured for use with the Saiga-12 shotguns. Others have manufactured hi-capacity stick magazines but this is the only production drum magazine we are currently familiar with.

The MD-20 was designed for 2-3/4 inch 12-gauge ammunition and has 3 optional back plates: black, smoke grey and clear. The clear and smoke grey plates are transparent so the user can see how many rounds have been fired and if an impending reload is looming. Since some still prefer the black cover to avoid any detection of discoloring or even round movement, it is an available option.

For some owners, the drum is ready to use right out of the package. For others, a slight modification is necessary. During the early stages of preproduction it became obvious that there were several loose tolerances in the design of the Saiga-12 and many were in the magazine locking area. Because of this large tolerance spectrum a magazine made to fit in a loose gun may not fit in a tight gun. To avoid having several magazines for the large number of different guns it was decided to make all the magazines geared toward the guns with the looser fitting magazine release and therefore they could all have the potential to fit every gun with some light fitting if necessary. Once a magazine has been fitted for a gun with tighter tolerances we understand that it will generally still function even in the very loose guns.

The fitting is only a simple removal of material from the rear locking lug of the magazine. It is clearly illustrated in the manual and with a standard bastard file it should take less than a minute to fit the drum to the firearm as on our test gun. Once fitted, the MD-20 functioned perfectly from the first test firing to the end of the testing. For those curious about the necessary fitting procedure there is a short instructional video available at the MD Arms website.

Range Time

The drum is a breeze to load. It is fed from the top of the feed mechanism with each round pushing the previous round further into the drum and indexing the follower by one round as well. Loading is simple and once the drum is loaded it stays loaded and ready. Storing it in a loaded condition will have no adverse effects on function or longevity.

Inserting the drum into the firearm is performed best by using one of two methods. In the first, the bolt can be held back with the opposite hand and a full magazine easily inserted in the normal fashion. The second method is loading the magazine with only 19 rounds and easily inserting it on a closed bolt.

While expecting a “break-in period” on a new gun with a new magazine, there was none necessary with this combination. When shooting some #5 High-Brass ammo everything cycled perfectly without a single failure of any kind. Only when we switched to the ammunition specifically listed as problematic (inexpensive Winchester Bulk Pack, lo-brass ammo) did we start to experience some failure to eject problems. After switching back to high-brass ammo including slugs, buckshot, and birdshot we realized 100% feed and function again.

After returning to the office and reviewing the MD-20 literature we learned that the follower spring can be tuned down a little bit to help facilitate some lower powered ammunition but at the time of this printing we had not had the opportunity to explore this. A normal break-in period with the firearm or a little polishing of the correct gun parts can assist the function with low powered ammo as well. Ideally the drum should function as intended as shipped, and require no other alterations other than the “fitting” previously described.

Conclusions

The MD-20 Drum is the extra little supercharger on an already high-performance package. For scattergun aficionados, the ability to use a detachable magazine opens many doors not typically available. Having the option to carry several magazines, of a number of capacities gives the shooter an amazing amount of flexibility when deciding an appropriate round for any given situation. Whether it be a hunter who is bird hunting but would benefit with a magazine of slugs for that black bear he just encountered, or a law enforcement officer who just found himself in a situation where a magazine of less-lethal ammo would be more suitable for a situation than normal ammo, there are many positive angles to explore. The MD-20 Drum expands the firepower available to the operator and if they all fit and function as well as the combinations we tested, we think MD Arms, Ltd. has a winner. At an MSRP of $260 this writer will be ordering a spare drum or two for his working reference collection.

The Saiga-12 Shotgun In-Depth

One thing we did learn when working on this article is that there are several variations of this shotgun, even in identical model designations. There are differences in gas ports (both the number and diameter of them), and even multiple barrel lengths and configurations. Due to these differences several Saiga-12 gun services, customization specialists, parts & accessory vendors and gunsmiths have launched a number of items and companies revolving around the Saiga-12 platform. Since time and space does not permit an in-depth technical article on the Saiga-12 at this time we assure you it will happen in the very near future and we already have several parties who deal with these firearms quite anxious to help us tell the whole story. From simple function fixes to radical configuration changes, the Saiga-12 seems to offer something for almost every application and Small Arms Review magazine is happy to bring you the details.

As we were prepping this article for print we received a 12-inch Tromix SBS to test and we are even more excited about the platform now. With little time left for testing we did manage to fire a complete 100-round bulk pack of the previously troublesome ammo, with flawless feed and function from the drum with no further modifications to it. The Tromix SBS pictured below will be featured in the future Saiga-12 testing.

Sources

MD-20 12-Gauge Drum
MD Arms, Ltd.
Dept. SAR
PO Box 237
Casstown, OH 45312
Email: info@mdarms.com
Website: www.MDArms.com

Heavily Customized Saiga-12 Shotguns
TROMIX
Dept. SAR
405 N. Walnut, Ave #8
Broken Arrow, OK 74012
Phone: (918) 251-5640
Email: Rumore@Tromix.com
Website: www.tromix.com

Saiga-12 Information
Online forum on the Saiga-12 platform
www.Saiga-12.com

By John Brown

The NFATCA was formed in 2003 with the intent of breaking down the barriers that have held the industry back from working closely with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (BATFE). We formed this group with the intent of alleviating many of the fears that legitimate NFA dealers, collectors and manufacturers have with one of the most powerful enforcement agencies in our Federal Government. We also formed the organization with the intent of eliminating a lot of the fears that we all have by better understanding ATF regulations and the policies that affect owners, manufacturers, collectors and dealers nationwide. Most importantly our mission was to establish the right relationships with the right management personnel within ATF to allow us the opportunity to sit at a table and discuss policy and ruling issues that potentially stand in our way of making progress in building a rock solid relationship with the bureau and the public. I can say today that getting inside, establishing the right relationships, and in many cases starting a relationship that depends on trust in working with one another has been one of the many great successes that both organizations have worked diligently to create. Yet, there are still those in the industry ranks that think that the NFATCA has abandoned the cause and has flipped over to a double agent status. Unfortunately, those same people have never taken the time to spend the twenty dollars to see what we have accomplished together and read the NFA Handbook, now in its third edition.

We have found that it is truly all about the relationships and how we work together on the issues at hand. This year has had its successes and its frustrations with the many items that we set as objectives to accomplish in late 2008. For the first time in history, the two organizations sat together and developed an agenda of “Things to Accomplish.” We started out with a list of about a dozen issues that included everything from getting rid of the outdated CLEO signature to picking up the idea from the Assistant Director Carson Carroll of investigating the potential for a new amnesty for NFA weapons. That suggestion by Carson was a result of discussions that been held inside the Bureau with the NFATCA. That discussion and many of the issues that have been discussed are a result of everyone realizing that there is a benefit from all of us working together. The good news is that not only is the idea of working together benefitting both organizations but the power of working together is phenomenal. ATF is learning how to better focus energies on regulations and the NFATCA is learning how to better keep the industry understanding regulations and working together to modify regulations and move ahead with change with common goals.

The frustration that we have experienced this year is the loss of some darn good talent that dug in and was determined to work with the industry. This year the Director, Michael Sullivan, left to return to Boston and has now joined a prestigious law firm. His presence was very powerful and we will all miss him. In addition to losing Director Sullivan we have also lost the Assistant Director Carson Carroll, who dug in with the Bureau and the industry and was initiating some major changes. Carson and the former Director’s leaving have set the pace back a bit but all is not lost. Moving in are now two extremely prominent figures that have been working diligently with the industry to effect change. The newly appointed Assistant Director Billy Hoover and the newly appointed Acting Director Kenneth Melson have both welcomed the NFATCA with open arms. Mr. Hoover has a long track record with us and has been a friend of the NFATCA for a long while. We wish both the best of luck in their future endeavors.

Another tremendous loss for the industry coming in early 2009 will be the retirement of the Director of Field Operations Jim Zamillo. Jim has been working with the NFATCA to assist in our development of a “new dealer” training program. Jim will be missed among the ranks after his retirement and we also want to wish him the best.

So with all of the changes that we have had, and will see this year and next, moving the ball forward is a challenging and sometimes frustrating experience. It is, however, the job that we have chosen to uphold; working to continue to broaden the relationship and work together to create a better future for all.

On a positive note we would like to mention the tremendous successes that have occurred in 2009 as a result of working together. First, the National Firearms Act (NFA) Branch and the Firearms Technology Branch (FTB) are due many thanks for their tireless work in contributing to both the NFA Handbook and the FTB Handbook. In addition to the tremendous workload that both Branches have, the development of such a powerful resource is due to the tireless efforts of both organizations working with the NFATCA to capture the information we all need to successfully operate our businesses. The energies and the efforts of both FTB Chief John Spencer and Assistant Branch Chief Rick Vasquez are due a tremendous amount of thanks from the industry. Both are working tirelessly to clarify issues and to better work the thousands of issues that come into focus weekly from the industry. In addition we also want to recognize the efforts of NFA Branch Chief Steve Albro and Specialist Ernie Lintner for their tireless efforts in managing the thousands of transfers that are handled every month for the industry. The resources in both of these critical branches are hopefully stable for many years to come.

As with anything in life, if there is one thing that you are guaranteed, it is change. For the NFATCA, change is the one thing that we know from day to day will continue to make our efforts both challenging and frustrating. The one thing that the industry can know for sure is that there has been and will continue to be a constant within the NFATCA, its leadership. Our board is and continues to be constant in an ever changing political climate. That stability is a strength that is uncompromised and will remain so for as long as it is necessary to stand up for the industry that we represent. Our strength is in our numbers and these grow day by day, week by week. Our leadership is strong, constant, and ever vigilant in looking out for your interests. This leadership and the relationship that we have created is the only thing that is representing both ATF and Industry efforts uniformly.

Time to join the ranks of the NFATCA, wouldn’t you say? Log on today at www.nfatca.org and join us today.

New Lizard Pattern Camo from EOTAC

EOTAC, makers of the highest quality tactical and discreet garments available to operators, announces the introduction of the Operator Grade Field Jacket and Field Vest in Lizard Pattern Camo. The Lizard pattern camouflage was originally used on the uniforms of the French Foreign Legion Paratroopers during the Algerian War. A variation of the pattern was used by the Portuguese in Angola and over the years other versions were used on military uniforms from Namibia, Greece, Yugoslavia, and Cyprus. After receiving numerous inquiries, EOTAC is answering the demand by introducing the Field Jacket and Field Vest in an accurate reproduction of the original Lizard pattern. The Operator Grade Field Jacket is based on the French Foreign Legion Paratrooper Jacket that originally came in that pattern, making it a perfect match up. The Operator Grade Field Vest is a sleeveless version of the Field Jacket. The Lizard pattern, or Leopard pattern as the French called it, is the forefather to the famous Tiger stripe pattern used during the Vietnam War. The Field Jacket and Vest are also available in Coyote Brown, Black, and OD Green. The retail price for the Field Jacket is $124.99 for sizes small to 2XL and $131.99 for size 3XL. The retail price for the Field Vest is $99.99 for sizes small to 2XL and $108.99 for size 3XL. For more information on the EOTAC line of tactical and discreet garments contact EOTAC, Dept. SAR, 1940 Old Dunbar Road, West Columbia, SC 29172. Phone: (803) 744-9930. Fax: (803) 744-9933. They can be found on the web at www.eotac.com.

Ontario Knife Releases New XM Strike Fighter

An easy-to-access concealed knife can be an officer’s or operator’s saving grace when faced with a life and death encounter in the field, which is why Ontario Knife Company has introduced the ultimate automatic opening combat knife – the Ontario Knife Company XM Strike Fighter. Constructed with 154 CM stainless steel with a Tribocote R40 black powder coated finish – creating incredible toughness – the XM Strike Fighter provides U.S. military and law enforcement personnel with a sleek, compact and extremely effective blade that’s accessible at a moment’s notice. Available with either a plain or partially serrated blade edge, and yielding an overall length of 8.5 inches, the XM Strike Fighter features an outside quick release button and secondary safety lock to ensure this rugged folding combat knife is ready when you need it and stays concealed when you don’t. The .55 inch thick 6061-T6 aluminum handle is extremely low profile, housing a 3.75 inch long/.125 inch thick blade, and comes equipped with a handy pocket clip so it is conveniently concealed in a pocket, boot or belt. The black anodized aluminum handle features milled grooves to improve grip and the blade’s fuller keeps the knife’s overall weight at a mere 4.5 ounces resulting in an extremely lightweight, low profile and useful knife. For more information about Ontario Knife Company and its industry-leading line of advanced knives, machetes, edged products and specialty tools, contact Ontario Knife Company, Dept. SAR, P.O. Box 145-26 Empire Street, Franklinville, NY 14737. Phone: (716) 676-5527. Web address: www.ontarioknife.com.

New Conceal Carry Products from Uncle Mike’s

Uncle Mike’s Law Enforcement has added three new products that are designed for concealed carry of handguns. Uncle Mike’s Fanny Pack has a new design with updated materials for a better look and function. The pack holds the handgun snuggly but is easily accessible. In addition to a handgun, the Uncle Mike’s Fanny Pack will hold other small items. Suggested retail price is $34.95. Uncle Mike’s “Day Timer” Holster is a nice looking small day planner that is actually a holster. It looks like any other day planner from the outside, but instead is an excellent way for a gun owner to carry a concealed handgun. The day planner is made of ballistic nylon and sells for a suggested retail price of $16.95. Uncle Mike’s PDA Holster looks like a regular cell phone or PDA carry case but it is really an alternative way to carry a small concealed handgun. The case comes with a belt clip and has a soft interior that protects the firearm. The PDA Holster gives the owner instant access to their firearm while keeping it undetected. It sells for a suggested retail price of $9.95. For more information on these as well as a full line of holsters, cases and firearms accessories, please contact Uncle Mikes Law Enforcement, Bushnell Outdoor Products, Dept. SAR, 9200 Cody, Overland Park, KS 66214. Phone: (913) 752-3400. Fax: (913) 752-3550. Their website can be visited at: www.unclemikesle.com.

Extreme Shock Ammunition now has AR Mag-Well Add-Ons

Extreme Shock Ammunition, known for producing the world’s most advanced ammunition, introduces two new products, the Extreme Shock GripWell and the Extreme Shock LightWell. These two products are built for use with an M4 or AR-15 to offer better grip, allow for faster reloads, improve stance for CQB and protect the gun itself. The GripWell allows the operator to use the magazine well as a grip and creates a magazine funnel to reduce reload time. It weighs only 110 grams and is independent of the barrel length so it can be interchanged between full length and carbine length weapons. The GripWell design was developed to give the operator the preferred tight in elbow grip when holding the weapon. It will also allow the use of double mags. The “Mag Cinch” can be used by removing the top strap. Other manufacturer’s magazine clips can be used as well. The LightWell has all the advantages of the GripWell with the added ability to have a weapon light mounted on the gun without the need for a heavy and expensive rail system. The LightWell design allows for the light to be mounted on either the left hand or right hand side. The GripWell and the LightWell allow for cleaning of the weapon without removal. For more information please contact them at Extreme Shock USA, Dept. SAR, 182 Camp Jacob Road, Clintwood, VA 24228. Phone: (276) 926-6772. Fax: (276) 926-6092. Their website is www.extremeshockusa.net.

Wilson Tactical Introduces New “Rogue Knight” Bowie Fighter Knife

For over a decade Wilson Tactical, the knife and tool division of Wilson Combat, has brought the finest in quality edged tactical tools to their discriminating clientele. For 2009 they are raising the bar and are now offering a limited collection of handmade knives by some of today’s premier tactical knife makers without the long wait typically associated with special ordering a custom edged masterpiece. These newly designed knives featured in the new Custom Alliance will be few in number and will quickly become a valued centerpiece of any collection. These offerings will typify the Wilson standards of extraordinary quality, classic design and unmatched value. Wilson Tactical is proud to announce their first Custom Alliance with Master Bladesmith Jason Knight of Harleyville, SC. The Rogue Knight features an 8.5 inch hand forged blade of virtually unbreakable L-6 high carbon tool steel. A special heat treatment and salt bath tempering ensures that the real-world toughness and edge holding of this knife is second to none. The immaculate blade grinding, flawless fit and hand contoured premium ironwood handle will exceed your expectations for finish, balance and hair-splitting sharpness. The Rogue Knight is the perfect piece for the discriminating user or collector of fine tactical edged weapons and is limited to 10 serial numbered pieces with leather concealment sheath also by the maker. For more information on these very limited knives please contact Wilson Tactical/Wilson Combat, Dept. SAR, 2234 CR 719, Berryville, AR 72616. Phone: (870) 545-3618. Fax: (870) 545-3310. On the web at: www.wilsoncombat.com.

Zel Custom Announces AR Upper Receiver in .416 Barrett

Due to the success of the Tactilite .50 BMG, Zel Custom Manufacturing has released a new line of Tactilite uppers that convert a standard AR-15 into a .416 Barrett bolt-action rifle. The Tactilite, a complete upper assembly that allows a user to quickly convert an AR-15 rifle into a precision single-shot, bolt-action rifle, chambered in either .50 BMG or .416 Barrett, has been a big hit for Zel Custom. Since its release in June 2009, the Tactilite has been enthusiastically received by the shooting community and have caused sales to skyrocket for the new company. From casual shooters to the professional user to even the on-line gaming community, the Tactilite .50 BMG has received an incredibly positive response. Now, they are proud to offer a version chambered in .416 Barrett, to meet the needs of both the California market and those who want to use this incredible new chambering. The .416 Barrett is more powerful than the .50 BMG out to 1,000 yards. For more information please contact Zel Custom Manufacturing, LLC, Dept. SAR, 11419 Challenger Avenue, Odessa, Florida 33556. Phone: (303) 353-1473. Fax: (303) 265-9268. Their website is www.zelcustom.com.

By Robert M. Hausman

The Bureau of ATF is considering granting an amnesty period for holders of unregistered machine guns, industry members were told during the eighth annual ATF and the Imports Community meeting held at the Willard InterContinental Hotel in Washington, D.C. held August 10 – 11.

ATF Assistant Director Carson Carroll mentioned the possible amnesty almost as an aside during his remarks before the 250 assembled members of industry. Carroll said that it has not yet been decided if the amnesty would apply to all unregistered NFA firearms, or only certain types, or only those possessed under certain circumstances. ATF has also not decided if it will grant an amnesty period but is considering it.

Imports Branch

All applications for importation of AK-47, 75-round drum magazines are being evaluated as to the origin of the magazines before importation applications will be approved, noted Kevin L. Boydston, Firearms & Explosives Imports Branch Chief.

While the Imports Branch had recently been conditionally approving permit applications for AK drums, Customs and Border protection has informed ATF that it believed some of the drums approved for importation as being Bulgarian-made were actually from one or more proscribed countries and thus not importable, Boydston revealed.

In response, the Imports Branch, after consultation with the ATF Firearms Technology Branch (FTB), then decided to conditionally approve all permit applications seeking the importation of what importers listed as “Bulgarian-made” AK-47 75-round drum magazines so that the FTB could make a determination of their actual origin. After further consultation with the FTB, ATF has now determined that all AK-47, 75-round drum magazines should be evaluated by FTB prior to importation.

Until further notice, the Imports Branch will limit Form 6 applications of 75-round drum magazines to “conditional importation.” To expedite the final determination, importers are advised to include any certification of origin documentation available when the sample drum magazine is forwarded to the FTB for evaluation.

Barrel Lengths

A point of contention arose on the issue of barrel length reporting requirements. Many of the importers present expressed surprise when they were told that they had to report the individual barrel length of each and every firearm and incomplete firearm being imported. This rule applies even when the shipment contains firearms of a single make and model but with varying barrel lengths.

The individual barrel length must be reported on the Form 6 application and other attendant forms. The processing of applications may be delayed if ATF has to call the importer to determine the barrel lengths as the importer will then have to amend the Form 6 and/or the attachments.

Boydston reminded importers that the Voluntary Restraint Agreement (VRA) restricts the models of handguns and rifles that may be imported from, or were manufactured in, one of the FSU states. A further restriction applies to firearms parts in that only parts for firearms listed on the VRA may be imported into the U.S.

Thus, if importers wish to avoid delays in the processing of applications to import firearms parts manufactured in or imported from one of the states of the FSU, Boydston advised importers to indicate on the permit which model(s) the parts are for.

Completion of Form 6 and Attachments for Parts Importation

Boydston said the Imports Branch continues to receive permit applications in which the Implements of War section and its attachments are not properly completed, particularly when the application is for firearms parts for various types of firearms.

When importing firearms parts, a separate parts list must be made for each type and model of firearm, even if the importer wants to import the same parts for each type of firearm. The Imports Branch needs this information for entry into its database and to ensure the parts are importable. For example, a barrel for a revolver and a barrel for a rifle have different minimum lengths required for importation.

Form 6 Processing Times

During fiscal year 2008, a total of 9,308 Form 6 applications (Parts I and II) were received by ATF. These broke down into 718 applications by military, 413 by non-residents (usually to bring a firearm into the country for hunting or an organized target competition), 428 applications by dealers and 7,610 applications were commercial interests. Another 139 applications were for unspecified reasons.

Of these applications last year, 5,414 were processed within 11 to 30 days, 2,139 were closed within 1 to 10 days, 613 were closed within 31 to 45 days and 305 applications were processed in 45 or more days.

During fiscal year 2009, a total of 7,646 ATF Form 6 Parts I and II were processed by ATF. These were composed of 6,398 applications from the commercial sector, 461 from the military, 381 from dealers, 394 from non-residents and another 12 from unspecified applicants. Of these applications, 4,028 were closed within 11 to 30 days, 1,253 were closed within 1 to 10 days, 722 in 31- 45 days and 335 took 45 or more days to process.

NFA Branch

Efficiency records continue to be set despite an increased workload, noted Stephen B. Albro, Chief, ATF National Firearms Act Branch during his presentation.

There was an over 15% increase in the number of applications processed between fiscal year 2008 and the projected number for fiscal year 2009. The month of June 2009 saw the highest number of NFA applications that were ever processed in the NFA Branch – 9,219.

For the tax year ended June 30, 2009 special tax stamps were issued as follows:
Class 1 Importer – 133
Class 2 Manufacturer – 1,430
Class 3 Dealer – 2,125
Total (Special Occupational Taxpayers) SOT Taxpayers 3,688

USG Exemption

Albro noted the exemption from the payment of special occupational tax for those manufacturing NFA firearms exclusively for or on behalf of the United States Government (U.S.G.) (see 27 C.F.R. 479.33). The exemption is obtained by filing a letter request to the Chief, NFA Branch and is supported by proof of the contract with the U.S.G.

C.F.R. 479.33 also allows ATF to relieve the manufacturer of firearms for the U.S.G. from filing Form 2 to register the firearms manufactured and from filing the Form 5 to transfer the firearms to the U.S.G. This exemption does not apply to importers. Granting of this exemption does not relive the manufacturer from maintaining the manufacturing and disposition records required by the Gun Control Act.

The exemption from filing the Form 2 may be granted only to the person to whom the U.S.G. contract is issued. Subcontractors are not eligible to receive the exemption and any subcontractor manufacturing the firearm would have to register and apply to transfer any firearms manufactured under the contract.

Just as for a subcontractor manufacturing firearms for the prime contractor under a U.S.G. contract, if the firearms need to be transferred to another FFL before being transferred to the U.S.G., the registration and transfer procedures apply.

NFA Branch Forms Process

In case anyone was wondering, Albro detailed how NFA forms are processed within the branch. Incoming registration and transfer documents are sorted from each day’s mail receipts and assigned to data entry clerks for input into the NFRTR. In addition to capturing the information related to the person submitting the form and the firearms information, the date of receipt and date of posting to the system are captured.

After data entry, the forms are distributed to a Legal Instruments Examiner who is responsible for processing the forms. With few exceptions, the forms are assigned to an examiner alphabetically by the last name or trade name of the person submitting the form. The examiner’s job is to ensure that the form is correct, that the parties involved are qualified to conduct the transaction and that the entry in the database is correct and complete. The examiner then accepts and approves the form and applies the appropriate restrictions on the possession of the firearm. An approved copy is returned to the submitter.

To check on the status of a form, contact a customer service rep at the NFA Branch at (304) 616-4500. To obtain a copy of a missing registration form, submit a written request to the Chief, NFA Branch describing the circumstances and a description of the firearm.

Albro mentioned that the NFA Branch will provide registrants with an inventory printout of what that individual has registered in the NFA registry, upon request.

Pre-Inspection Preparation

How industry firms can prepare for an inspection and thus head off problems were detailed by Chad Yoder, Program manager, Field Management Staff, Field Operations, ATF.

While taking a periodic inventory is not mandated by regulation, Yoder advised licensees to conduct periodic inventory reconciliations. At a minimum, count open entries, count physical inventory, and then compare the two. Conduct sample inventory reconciliations. Periodically audit the different aspects of the business as it relates to accountability of firearms, traceability of all firearms and ensuring that persons not qualified to receive firearms are denied access.

Foreign Trade Zones

The little understood but important trade option for importers known as Foreign Trade Zones was detailed by Augustine Moore, Assistant Port Director for Trade Operations, Baltimore, Maryland Customs and Border Protection.

Foreign Trade Zones (FTZ) is the United States version of what are known internationally as free-trade zones. FTZs are secure areas under CBP supervision that are generally considered outside the Customs territory upon activation. Goods can stay in a FTZ indefinitely (as opposed to a Bonded Warehouse where it can stay only up to 5 years). There are presently 264 general purpose FTZs in the U.S. with about 50 additional pending. They are usually located within 50 miles from a port of entry.

Authority for establishing these facilities is granted by the Foreign Trade Zone Board under the Foreign Trade Zones Act of 1934, as amended (19 U.S.C. 81a-81u). The Executive Secretariat of the Board is located within the Import Administration of the Dept. of Commerce in Washington, D.C.

The advantage of a FTZ is that foreign and domestic merchandise may be stored, sold, exhibited, repacked, assembled, etc., without being subject to U.S. Customs laws for entry and other purposes. FTZs are visited at least once annually by Customs and are subject to inspection several times a year.

Under FTZ procedures, payments of duties are not required unless and until the foreign merchandise enters Customs territory for domestic consumption, at which point the importer generally has the choice of paying duties at the rate of either the original foreign materials or the finished product.

Bringing firearms into an FTZ involves obtaining the written concurrence of the FTZ board. An ATF Form 6 must be presented to the CBP port director along with CBP Form 214 (application for Foreign Trade zone admission). Articles on the U.S. Munitions List that have been imported for re-export may be admitted to an FTZ upon presentation to the port director of a State Dept. In-Transit license on DSP Form 61 along with CBP Form 214.

Note that a quota on importation cannot be circumvented by placing merchandise subject to such quota into a FTZ.

(To be continued next issue)

The author publishes two of the small arms industry’s most widely read trade newsletters. The International Firearms Trade covers the world firearms scene, and The New Firearms Business covers the domestic market. Visit www.FirearmsGroup.com. He may be reached at: FirearmsB@aol.com.