December 1, 2016 update:
Imperial Russian silver/nickel shooting medal. Obverse has image of a Russian Maxim Model of 1910 on a wheeled carriage mount and dated “July 16, 1914”. The reverse has the inscription reading “Special Machine Gun Competition Prize.” It is further engraved “To Junior Officer of Machine Gun Unit.” Medal is 28mm in diameter.

November 1, 2016 update:
World War I Imperial Russian Army shoulder boards. Pair for the 7th Siberian automobile machine gun platoon armored car driver. Branch insignia “7Sb Shifrovka” indicating the 7th Siberian rifle regiment. Red stripe and single star indicate rank of Ensign of Reserves. Silver plated buttons with Russian imperial eagles. Russia maintained the largest force of armored cars of any of the allies. A typical armored car platoon consisted of two or three twin-turreted (Maxims) gun cars such as Austins or Fiats and one or two armored trucks mounting short-barreled 75mm guns. American-made Indian motorcycles provided communications and some had machine guns (Colt Automatic Gun) mounted to them to provide anti-aircraft cover. By November 1917, over 200 armored cars were in service.

SureFire M600IB Intellibeam ScoutLight

SureFire, LLC, manufacturer of the world’s finest—and most innovative—illumination tools and tactical products, has launched their new M600IB Intellibeam ScoutLight. The revolutionary M600IB utilizes SureFire’s proprietary IntelliBeam Technology—an intelligent sensor and microprocessor-based system that continuously evaluates the environment where the beam is aimed—to automatically adjust the light output to the optimal level, anywhere between 100 and 600 lumens. So you always get just the right amount of light for the task at hand, based on your surroundings! Inside, in close quarters, you get less light, to eliminate light splashing back into your eyes. Outside, or with longer distances, you get maximum output. Find out more about this WeaponLight at www.SureFire.com.

CENTURY ARMS AK OPTIC MOUNTING SYSTEM

Century Arms, North America’s premier AK manufacturer, is proud to announce the introduction of the new addition to their AK-47 accessory line, the AK Micro Dot Side Mount. This solid and easy-to-install mount contains features that set it apart considerably from other side mounts currently available on the market. This AK receiver rail and side mount represent a true evolution of optics mounting systems for the AK platform. The AK Micro Dot Side Mount is machined from 6061-T6 billet aluminum and is hardcoat anodized per MIL-A-8625F Type III, Class 2 specifications, giving it superior overall strength. The AK Micro Dot Side Mount is the first AK side scope rail mount that has true return-to-zero capability. The mount offers four times the clamping engagement over traditional side scope rail mounts, improves sight acquisition for follow-up shots and allows for complete field stripping of the rifle without removal of the mount. It is compatible with most standard T1/H1 style optics and provides a modular mounting system to adjust the optic from front to back. All of Century Arms’ American Made AK47’s in the C39v2 and RAS47 product lines now come equipped with a new receiver side rail that is compatible with the AK Micro Dot Side Mount. This combination allows the modern shooting enthusiast the ability to customize their rifle and make it a more capable, flexible platform. The AK Micro Dot Side Mount includes all necessary hardware and has a suggested retail price of $119.99. You can find them at: www.centuryarms.com.

HARTMAN MHI SIGHT HAS LANDED IN THE US

Hartman Ltd., an optics company co-founded by Lt. Col. (Ret) Mikey Hartman of the Israeli Defense Force (IDF) and founder of the IDF Marksmanship and Sharpshooting School, is proud to announce the arrival of the MH1 reflex sight to retailers across the U.S. The game-changing features of the patent-pending MH1 sight have been specifically designed to meet and exceed the demands of military, law enforcement and sportsmen around the world. The Hartman MH1 reflex sight is distributed exclusively in the U.S. by CAA. The MH1, is an advanced tactical red dot sight, featuring multiple ground-breaking technologies, including: the largest field-of-view on the market, an optional customizable user interface and a USB charging port that allows the user to charge the sight via any mobile device, computer or wall socket (a single CR123 backup battery provides additional extended battery life). In addition, the sight is motion activated and will stay in battery saving mode until its dual 30° motion sensors perceive the firearm is being moved in a shooting position. The MH1’s rear panel and activation buttons are uniquely angled allowing the user to mount additional optics or night vision gear behind it without impeding access to the controls even when using gloves. Optionally, as part of the interface feature users can customize a variety of controls: PTT on or off, sleep mode duration, motion sensors enable/disable, low battery indicators and adjusting brightness levels. In addition, an optional remote control PTT strap allows the user to activate the sight as well as control brightness while maintaining two handed control of the firearm, useful when moving from low light to bright light conditions or vice versa. You can find out more at www.hartman-il.com.

FDE AND TACTICAL MODELS JOIN THE HK VP PRODUCT LINE

Two new models of Heckler & Koch’s VP striker fired pistol have been added to the company line-up. New Flat Dark Earth (FDE) colored frame variants and threaded barrel “Tactical models” join the renowned VP family of 9 mm and .40 caliber pistols. The new VP FDE models are manufactured using special colorants added to the frame during the molding process and are available in both 9 mm (VP9) and .40 caliber (VP40). The color frame cannot fade or chip and is unaffected by chemicals, sun, and exposure to the elements. FDE models have all of the highly regarded VP features-with the addition of their colored frames. Flat Dark Earth is a tan/brown color scheme that has gained favor among many military and security units in recent years. The VP Tactical models (available in both 9 mm and .40 S&W) are also identical to standard HK VP pistols, except for the addition of premium grade threaded barrels only their weights and lengths differ due to the longer and slightly heavier threaded barrel. The threaded barrels are manufactured at HK’s Oberndorf factory in southwest Germany, using the legendary Heckler & Koch cold-hammer forging process. HK cold hammer forged barrels, made from proprietary cannon grade steel, are well known for their long service life. Similar HK barrels on P30 models have fired more than 90,000 rounds in endurance tests. Both the VP FDE color frame models and the VP Tactical models are made completely in HK’s Oberndorf factory in southwest Germany using all of the company’s advanced technologies for barrel manufacturing, as well as production of the machined steel slide, polymer frame, and all internal components. HK VP pistols are competitively priced and covered by Heckler & Koch’s lifetime warranty. Learn more at www.hk-usa.com.

CCI AMMUNITION ADDS HANDGUN SHOTSHELL LINE-UP TO HANDGUN LOADS

CCI Ammunition, the only American manufacturer of handgun shotshells, introduces all-new handgun shotshells featuring larger shot for deeper penetration and extended range. They are available in four popular handgun calibers. Shipments of this new product are being delivered to dealers. Centerfire handgun shotshells have long proven themselves as highly practical options for close-range pests. CCI has added to its one-of-a-kind offering with exciting new CCI Big 4 loads to extend the range and capabilities of these downsized shotshells, thanks to a payload of No. 4 lead shot. The resulting energy and patterns enable Big 4 loads to take down larger pests at longer distances, making them even more useful. The new ammunition is packed in reusable 10-round boxes and is available in 9mm, .38 Special/.357 Magnum, .44 Special/.44 Magnum and .45 Long Colt. More information is available at www.cci-ammunition.com.

NEW CREEDMORE PTR AMMUNITION

Creedmoor Ammunition, a division of Creedmoor Sports, is now loading Creedmoor Precision Tactical Rifle (PTR) ammunition, made specifically with law enforcement in mind. Hard-hitting and extremely accurate, the new .223 caliber PTR round is loaded with a 55 grain Sierra HPBT bullet. The Sierra HPBT leaves the muzzle at a sizzling 3,200 feet per second, and generates 1,250 foot pounds of threat-stopping energy. When zeroed in at 100 yards, the bullet drops a scant 3.4 inches at 200 yards. The new PTR ammunition is loaded into Creedmoor’s own high-quality brass, sold in boxes of 20 in a MTM case, and is made in the USA at Creedmoor Sport’s Anniston, Alabama facility. Quantity discounts are available. Every round Creedmoor Sports produces is hand inspected, after being loaded in new state-of-the-art AmmoLoad machines. The PTR rounds–like all Creedmoor Ammunition–are offered at the lowest prices possible because Creedmoor sells directly to consumers-no distributors or middle-men to drive up prices! For more information, please visit www.creedmoorsports.com.

POLYCASE RELEASES NEW SPORT UTILITY AMMO

PolyCase Ammunition releases their new line of Sport Utility Ammo. PolyCase Ammunition has taken the industry by storm with their innovative copper-polymer projectiles, performing beyond expectations. The New Sport Utility line is range-friendly with its copper-polymer blend. Unlike other jacketed and frangible ammo, the Inceptor RNP Sport Utility Ammo can be shot on hardened steel with safe range distances being measured in feet, not yards, resulting in a safer and more realistic training experience. The Sport Utility Ammo is the perfect practice round for both indoor and outdoor shooting. This sport/training product is perfectly matched to the recoil and performance of the Inceptor Preferred Defense and Ruger Self-Defense lines of ammunition, making it the ideal practice ammo choice for users of Ruger or Inceptor-branded defense ammunition. The Inceptor RNP Sport Utility Ammo delivers high velocity and low recoil providing a comfortable day of shooting at the range while holding the accuracy and performance expected from PolyCase products. The Inceptor RNP Sport Utility Ammo line is available in .380 Auto, 9mm, .40 S&W, .45 Auto and .38 Special. This flatter, faster and frangible ammo is now available in contemporary packaged and competitively priced 50-round count boxes, making it the obvious choice for today’s cost-conscious shooter. Contact them at www.polycaseammo.com.

Over the last several years the industry has seen much on U.S. made AK47’s. Some companies actually assemble parts kits on American made stamped or milled receivers. Companies like Nodak Spud have designed and manufactured stamped receivers for fixed, underfolding as well as side folding stocks. Also, many of the parts kits come in with barrels that are shot out or no barrels at all due to ATF ruling and they are replaced by American made barrels. Other companies will take imported firearms such as the Saiga and Vepr and completely rework them. Of course 922(r) is a large consideration. An AK type rifle must have a certain amount of American made components to make them legally have the “objectionable” criteria set forth for importation go away- depending on the calculations and parts used, they must have 6 parts if stamped or 5 if it is a machined receiver. In other words if you want a pistol grip, folding stock, bayonet lug, etc… you must have the proper number of American parts. These American made parts are often pistol grip, piston, hammer, trigger, disconnector and muzzle device.

In the states, there is one company that stands above the rest. They make customized versions of the AK-family of weapons to include AKM, AKMS, AK-pistols and also shotguns. This company has fulfilled contracts for special operations forces for highly modified AK weapon systems. These calibers include 5.45x39mm, 5.56x45mm, 7.62x39mm as well as 12 gauge. This company is Krebs Custom out of Wauconda, Illinois. It would be safe to say that Marc Krebs works with AK’s like Picasso works with oils!

At first Marc Krebs started by doing “general gunsmithing.” After several years he shifted focus to specialize in building custom .45 1911 pistols. Even while working on these competition 45’s (which, according to Marc, were always pushing the edge of reliability); Marc always respected the AK platform, and saw its potential. About 20 years ago, he shifted his focus to the “AK platform.” Although a small shop, Krebs Custom can manufacture approximately 600 weapons per year.

The imported Saiga or Vepr rifles and shotguns are stripped to their barreled receivers and then “built out” and “blueprinted” from there. The trigger guards are removed, modified, and then re-installed in the proper position. The rest of the rifle is built according to the particular model they want to produce. They re-crown the barrels, straighten & align the sights, and eliminate any magazine problems (when necessary). For 922(r) compliance they usually install three US-made trigger parts, Tapco G-2 parts that they have re-machined to Krebs standards), use US-made forend furniture and buttstocks, and Krebs US-made AK-74-style muzzle brake. While being built, all of the sharp edges of the firearms are smoothed. After the firearms have been industrially tumbled, they are ready to be bead-blasted to bare metal. They are then carefully painted, using Krebs’ locally-made, industrial-grade, flat black synthetic alkyd paint. After being cured for 10 minutes, the parts are then baked for 30 minutes to harden the paint and “bond” it to the metal. Their most popular rifle configuration is their AK-103K which is a 7.62x39mm caliber rifle which has the outward appearance of an AK74. Although the 5.45x39mm caliber is very popular for Krebs (35%), the 7.62x39mm is by far more popular (65%). Krebs did do SAIGA shotguns when they were available as well. Krebs does have the capability and is licensed to do selective fire weapons for law enforcement and military applications. They do not export any rifles or parts outside the continental United States with exception of State Department orders as well as orders to APO’s or FPO’s.

This author has had the opportunity to review Krebs rifles in the past. In fact the last rifle reviewed was a Krebs AK74 classic chambered in 5.45x39mm. It had a rather stout price tag but after the review it wound up in my collection. The rifle was built on a Saiga reciever and looked flawless and shot excellent. In the last year or so, the Obama administration banned importations of semi-automatic firearms coming in from Kalashnikov Concern from Russia. That has put a hurting on Krebs Custom due to their flagship guns being made from Russian imported firearms. This time with the thanks of Krebs and Tumbleson Arms here in Texas this author was able to get a short barreled Molot VEPR 12 K 12 gauge shotgun. The Molot VEPR was manufactured by Molot-Oruzhie LTD in Vyatskie Polyany Russia Federation. The Molot VEPR shotgun was imported by WPA in Anaheim, California. The importation of Molot rifles and shotguns has been somewhat sporadic. Krebs has his own stamp and model number placed on it so it is manufactured by him and registered as an SBS (Short barreled Shotgun) Like we have come to expect from Krebs, the shotgun was in pristine condition. No scratches or machining marks. The shotgun was received with an 18 inch chrome plated bore, receiver shaft, gas chamber and chamber barrel. The choke tube is removable and other options are available. The muzzle is externally threaded unlike most shotguns. The action is almost identical to any other AK-platform weapon. The shotgun has the Molot self-regulating gas system. The base shotgun which Krebs modified has several other features found on no other AK-based shotgun. The dust cover itself is hinged like the AK74SU. This is always advantageous, one less part to lose. On top of the receiver cover is a Mil-Std-1913 rail for mounting optics. The pistol grip has three finger swells making it more comfortable than a standard AK-type pistol grip. The handguards are a heavy Molot polymer, black in color with ribs for an easy non-slip grip. This is definitely advantageous as well. Most recently this author tested an AK-type rifle which got so hot the finish began to bubble and come off the wood. The polymer handguards are impervious to the elements. They don’t swell with humidity or exposure to water and under normal conditions stay cooler and are less likely to burn than wood.

One of the unique VEPR characteristics is the Molot competition magazine well. The magazine well hangs down similar to that of an M16. It guides the magazine into the well, and prevents tilting of the magazine sideways. Like any other AK, you have to have the lug on the front of the magazine engage with the lug on the receiver and the magazine is cammed rearward until the magazine catch engages the rear lug on the magazine. The magazine latch itself is significantly longer than that of any standard AK-type rifle. The shotgun comes from Molot with a 5 round magazine. The shotgun sent by Krebs had an SGM Tactical 12 shot magazine. This is a very high quality magazine. Dwarfs Tactical also offers a 25 round drum magazine for this shotgun!

The receiver itself holds some very interesting enhancements over the Saiga series AK-type shotguns. The receiver has an RPK style look to it. It is reinforced. The VEPR has a bolt lock open mechanism. On the last shot the follower engages the bolt catch locking the bolt to the rear. This is a really good idea since this shotgun is extremely difficult to load on a closed bolt. Once you replace the magazine, the shooter merely pushes upward on the lever and the bolt closes. The lever is conveniently located just in front of the pistol grip and easily actuated with the shooter’s trigger finger. The second really interesting feature was the ambidextrous safety. On the left side of the receiver there is a lever similar to that of a Galil that enables a left handed shooter to engage the safety with ease. On the right side, the safety lever is extended to the rear so it may be manipulated without removing your hand from the pistol grip.

The front sights are typical AK. The rear sight is actually an RPK-style which is adjustable for windage as well as elevation. Obviously the trajectory of the 12 gauge shotgun slug is different from the 7.62x39mm cartridge so the shooter would have to experiment with where the sight would be adjusted to compensate for the heavy and slow 1 oz slug. The front sight is typical AK front sight post.

Krebs modified the stock to be fully functional. It was a fixed stock as received. The stock folds to the left side and does not interfere with the ambidextrous safety. There is a buttpad to assist with recoil as well. Just like the AKS74, there is a sling swivel located on the right side of the stock at the edge by the receiver. The other is the typical AK location on the left side near the gas block. Also on the stock is a cheek riser that can be rotated to the left or right side.

Disassembly was identical to any other AK-type rifle. While ensuring the firearm is not loaded, push inward on the action spring guide and lift the receiver cover (rotate) until it is straight up. Push inward on the spring guide, lift up and pull the recoil spring assembly out of the receiver. Retract the bolt carrier group and lift out of the firearm. Unlock the bolt, rotating counter clock wise and remove the bolt from the carrier. To remove the gas tube/top handguard lift upward on the top handguard release lever and lift the top handguard off of the receiver.

Krebs made some modifications to this basic shotgun to make it their own. First, as previously stated they changed the stock from fixed to folding. The barrel was shortened to 12.5 inches and the muzzle rethreaded to accept a choke tube. The threads on the shotgun are the same as any Saiga shotgun. The gas system was modified to accept heavy 12 gauge loads using the shorter barrel. The gas system is set up for higher power loads. If the customer wishes to use lighter more inexpensive loads the shooter should purchase a full choke. The safety was tuned and smoothed out to make it more ergonomic and easier to manipulate. The shotgun was industrial tumbled (deburred) and “dehorned” (sharp edges removed) for fast and painless operation. The last step in assembly is to degrease and to refinish all parts with a proprietary Krebs Custom flat black, baked-on synthetic alkyd KrebsCoat finish.

The shotgun sent for demo has a 12.5 inch barrel with a weight of 8.4 pounds without a magazine. The overall length of the shotgun with the stock closed is 22 inches and with the stock extended 32.5 inches. The width with the stock extended is 1.50 inches and with the stock folded is 3 inches. The trigger pull broke right at 4.25 pounds. The shotgun was smooth and the trigger slick.

The shotgun was tested with a variety of ammunition. Starting with Buckshot, both Remington and Winchester 2 3/4 inch OO Buck shot were fired. Both of them cycled reliably but were not potent enough to lock the bolt to the rear. For slugs there were Hornady Light Magnum 1oz slug and Federal TruBall rifled slugs. These all cycled perfectly and locked the bolt to the rear. The recoil was notable with the short barrel shotgun. The slugs were shot at 25 yards and all clover-leafed. Overall nearly 100 rounds were fired from the shotgun. All were the same magazine. The bolt hold open was really a benefit. Normally one would have to have to hold the bolt to the rear to load this type of AK-based shotgun. The open bolt made insertion of the magazine quick and easy.

It is always a blast to get hold of one of Marc Kreb’s firearms. They take a basic warhorse and turn it into a mechanically beautiful piece of work.It reminds me of a relative who could take a basic frozen store bought pizza that looked terrible, spice it up and make you think it came out of an old brick oven at a mom and pop pizza joint. With a price tag of $1,999.00 this is not your entry level low cost shotgun. Someone who will appreciate the craftsmanship and quality of a Krebs firearm will feel honored to have one in their collection.

Registering with the State Department and paying the annual registration fees as a manufacturer under the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) has always been a subject of great contention in the NFA community. Unfortunately, it has often been difficult to obtain confirmation of exactly who has to pay, under what circumstances, and who, if anyone, is exempt from registration and payment. Internet “experts” have offered opinions as to just what to do and following some of that advice has resulted in rather unpleasant outcomes.

The NFATCA has always advised its members and the NFA community to seek the advice of counsel if there is any doubt as to whether one must register and pay. Fortunately, the State Department has finally made it perfectly clear exactly who must register and pay and who is not required to. State published an advisory on July 22, 2016 that can be found here: www.nfatca.org/pubs/ITAR_State_Rules.pdf

The important highlights of the letter:

“ITAR registration is required of persons who engage in the business of manufacturing defense articles. Persons who do not actually manufacture ITAR-controlled firearms (including by engaging in the activities described below, which DDTC has found in specific cases to constitute manufacturing) need not register with DDTC – even if they have an FFL from ATF. As indicated above, the requirements for obtaining FFLs under the GCA are separate and distinct from the requirement under the AECA and ITAR to register with DDTC.

1. Registration not Required – Not Manufacturing: In response to questions from persons engaged in the business of gunsmithing, DDTC has found in specific cases that ITAR registration is not required because the following activities do not meet the ordinary, contemporary, common meaning of “manufacturing” that DDTC employs in implementing the ITAR and, therefore, do not constitute “manufacturing” for ITAR purposes:

a) Occasional assembly of firearm parts and kits that do not require cutting, drilling, or machining;
b) Firearm repairs involving one-for-one drop-in replacement parts that do not require any cutting, drilling, or machining for installation;
c) Repairs involving replacement parts that do not improve the accuracy, caliber, or other aspects of firearm operation;
d) Hydrographic paint or Cerakote application or bluing treatments for a firearm; ITAR Registration Requirements – Consolidated Guidance July 22, 2016 Firearms Manufacturers and Gunsmiths
e) Attachment of accessories to a completed firearm without drilling, cutting, or machining—such as attaching a scope, sling, or light to existing mounts or hooks, or attaching a flash suppressor, sound suppressor, muzzle brake, or similar item to a pre-threaded muzzle;
f) Cosmetic additions and alterations (including engraving) that do not improve the accuracy, caliber, or other aspects of firearm operation beyond its original capabilities;
g) Machining new dovetails or drilling and tapping new holes for the installation of sights which do not improve the accuracy or operation of the firearm beyond its original capabilities; and
h) Manual loading or reloading of ammunition of .50 caliber or smaller. Activities limited to the domestic sale or resale of firearms, the occasional assembly of firearms without drilling, cutting, or machining, and/or specific gunsmithing activities that do not improve the accuracy, caliber, or operations of the firearm beyond its original capabilities (as described above) are not manufacturing within the context of the ITAR. If you are not manufacturing, exporting, temporarily importing or brokering defense articles or services, you are not required to register with DDTC.

2. Registration Required – Manufacturing: In response to questions from persons engaged in the business of gunsmithing, DDTC has found in specific cases that ITAR registration is required because the following activities meet the ordinary, contemporary, common meaning of “manufacturing” and, therefore, constitute “manufacturing” for ITAR purposes:

a) Use of any special tooling or equipment upgrading in order to improve the capability of assembled or repaired firearms;
b) Modifications to a firearm that change round capacity;
c) The production of firearm parts (including, but not limited to, barrels, stocks, cylinders, breech mechanisms, triggers, silencers, or suppressors);
d) The systemized production of ammunition, including the automated loading or reloading of ammunition;
e) The machining or cutting of firearms, e.g., threading of muzzles or muzzle brake installation requiring machining, that results in an enhanced capability;
f) Rechambering firearms through machining, cutting, or drilling;
g) Chambering, cutting, or threading barrel blanks; and
h) Blueprinting firearms by machining the barrel.

The NFA world- dealing with Title II firearms- is a difficult one. The landmines in regulations are frequent, seemingly common sense business decisions can often land a company or individual in trouble when they couldn’t imagine the danger. The laws are arcane and twisted logic paths are there- add in import, export, DDTC, ITAR, AECA-76, GCA-68 and the confusion simply multiplies. I wrote the first edition of the Machine Gun Dealer’s Bible in 1989 because of how many companies and friends were running smack into confusing laws that were a new focus of government employees; and people were gob-smacked at what they were facing.

Today as SAR approaches its 20th year, we thought that it might be a good idea to help introduce our readers to some places they can get help; Legal firms who specialize and have been honest in the dealings we have seen, former regulatory employees who will consult on issues, and resources to help guide you before you have trouble, and perhaps help clean up issues that might arise from violations. If you don’t see someone on our lists, it may not mean we consider them untrustworthy, we may simply be unaware of their service or it might be too local for this magazine.

Attorneys Handling NFA, Firearms Law, Manufacturing, Import and Export:

Reeves & Dola, LLP
1775 Eye St., NW
Suite 1150
Washington, DC 20006
Fax 202.587.5610
http://www.reevesdola.com

Help for dealers and manufacturers:

Chris Chiafullo
FFLGuard, LLC
244 5th Ave., Suite 1960
New York, NY 10001 USA
http://fflguard.com

Firearms Trademarks & Patents:

Ben Langlotz
+1-888-852-4246
patent@langlotz.com
www.gunpatent.com

Consulting on Technical Firearms issues and laws:

Richard Vasquez
Rick Vasquez Firearms, LLC
235 Deer Creek Road
Winchester, VA
Phone: 540.535.6633
Email: rick@rickvasquezfirearms.com

Import/Export Customs Brokers and problem solvers:

AirSchott
Doors 116 – 119, 23901 Cargo Dr,
Dulles, VA 20166
Phone: (703) 471-7444
http://airschott.com

Import/Export Customs Brokers and problem solvers:

Jason Wong
Import/Export Specialists:
Hurricane Butterfly
100 Andover Park West
Suite 150 – 105
Tukwila, WA 98188

The 9mm AR carbine has gone through many improvements over the years. The original design was made by Colt’s engineer Henry Tatro in the late 1980’s. At the time this was in the model shop, Colt was going through bankruptcy and few resources were available in both financial and human resources to complete the project. The gun was introduced to the market and sold in both full auto LE/Military models as well as commercial semi-auto only variations. The submachine gun never really was exploited to its full potential. Heckler & Koch owned the subgun market with their MP5 series. Colt was more concerned with their new M4 carbine and they really did not want to compete anything with the sale of that. The Colt SMG/Carbine had its issues and it would be safe to say that Hanks prototype was never actually finished over these years. Not by Colt anyway.

JP Rifles is known throughout the industry for producing match grade AR-based rifles as well as many innovative accessories and updates for the AR-platform. These include their own versions of highly modified triggers, handguards, bolt, bolt carrier, recoil systems, heat sinks and upper and lower receivers to name a few. However John Paul really was famous for what he did with the 5.56mm and 7.62x51mm caliber rifles.

Owner John Paul owned a Rock River Arms 9mm carbine and he thought it was very fun to shoot. He decided he wanted build his own with the first priority being ditching the Colt-pattern magazine and using the more popular Glock 17 magazine. He felt he could do better in getting controllability in line with this blowback design as well as improving other facets of the gun with other innovative designs. He did just that and he took that carbine prototype to a Magpul Dynamics Advanced Carbine course and he was amazed with the results even out to 100 yards.

The rifle received by SAR had several interesting advanced features. It is not just another reproduction of the Colt design. Starting from the rear, the rifle was equipped with an Ark Defense stock which has a similar feel to the LMT SOPMOD stock with a smooth triangular shape where the cheek weld is. The receiver extension is standard with six positions for the stock. The first refinement is located in the receiver extension. The standard 9mm steel buffer and spring are replaced with a JP designed silent captured recoil spring. John Paul was never fond of the noise made by the friction of the recoil spring on the inside of the receiver extension. He felt it was annoying and distracting. He went to develop the Silent Captured Spring (patent pending). In appearance it looks like an oversized pistol spring guide. The rear of the unit has a large neoprene-type bumper and the front has two circular shaped weights. The spring at no point comes in contact with the receiver extension. The lower receiver does not have a buffer retainer pin or spring. This Silent Captured Spring unit just drops into the receiver extension. The unit is set up to drop into the receiver extension. On the T&E rifle, the buffer retainer pin and spring were removed to facilitate easy installation and removal. You can leave the retainer pin installed, it is just more difficult to remove the Silent Captured Spring unit. Along with this is a modified 9mm bolt. Unlike the traditional 9mm bolt there is no steel slug in the inside rear of the bolt for additional weight to delay opening. The guide rod protrudes up the carrier body which prevents usage of the slug in the bolt. The mass is rather transferred to the Silent Capture Spring buffer and the JP 9mm bolt. The JP bolt is heavier than the standard even with the use of the slug. This also limits the stroke and provides a faster sight recovery. According to John Paul the bottom line is more controllable in either rapid semi as well as selective fire modes than the traditional AR based blowback.

The lower receiver is a dedicated 9mm and made by JP Rifles. It is manufactured from a solid billet of 7075 T6 aircraft grade aluminum. The receiver is designed for the Glock 17 magazine. During testing 9mm Glock magazines with 10, 15, 17 and 33 round capacity were used. The magazine release button is large on the right hand side of the receiver. The magazine well is beveled for easy insertion of the magazine. The fact that the magazine is double column with single feed also helps quickly reloading. The ejector is fixed to the inside of the receiver. The receiver does have a bolt catch but it is not activated by the magazine. According to John Paul, “Activating the bolt catch off a pistol mag follower in an AR type lower is an engineering problem in itself which we chose to put on the back burner so we could get to market ASAP with what we had as it was such an improvement over what was out there. Most of these types of lowers do not have a last round lock back feature. Note the MP5 does not have a last round lock back either. The next gen receiver will have a last round lock back”.

The trigger group installed in the lower receiver is the JP Enterprises E-Z trigger. This is a JP designed single stage trigger with a low mass hammer. The trigger itself has adjustment screws for the trigger hammer sear as well as the safety overtravel. Loctite needs to be used on the screws so they do not vibrate loose. Due to the dynamics of the blow back operated design, hammer pins take a beating and are prone to breakage. Colt’s answer to this issue was the use of a stainless steel hammer/trigger pin. The use of the low mass hammer in the JP 9mm carbine affects the torque effect transmitted to the pivot pins. The more mass on the top of the hammer, the more stress on the hammer pin in the blowback system. To date, JP Rifles has yet to break any hammer pins. However, JP Rifles next generation lower receiver will use larger.172 inch oversized pins to ensure against hammer pin breakage. Once adjusted, the creep was gone from this trigger. The trigger broke on the T&E rifle at 3 1/2 pounds. The grip on the T&E rifle is a Hogue OverMolded rubber grip with finger grooves.

As previously stated the JP rifle is designed for the Glock magazine only. SAR asked John Paul if he intended to introduce a lower receiver which would fire the Colt pattern magazine. His response “No need for that as the mag inserts sold by Rock River Arms solve that application nicely. If we make another lower, it will be a Smith & Wesson M&P mag based lower as we are mainly after sidearm magazine cross compatibility. In other words, our uppers and 9mm bolts are compatible with either double or single feed magazines and the uppers can be used in either format.”

The upper receiver was also cut from a solid billet of 7075 T6 aircraft aluminum. The upper on this rifle was a standard 5.56mm upper receiver which included a forward assist assembly as well as a fired cartridge case deflector. There is an ejection port cover as well. There is no Gas block such as those found on the Colt rifles which prevents burning powder from hitting the shooter in the face. The charging handle is located in the same location as usual. However, there is a second charging handle. This is located on the left side of the upper receiver. Without having a bolt catch on the rifle, the side location allows for faster reloading due to the rifle not having to be fully removed from the shooter’s shoulder. This is an option which can be had. The upper receiver can also be a standard forged receiver. If the customer chooses the billet upper receiver the cost increases by $500.

The barrel is a JP Supermatch™ barrel. The barrels are manufactured to JP Rifles’ highly exacting specifications for superior performance and optimal fit with JP components. These barrels are turned from the finest 416R stainless steel and then lead-lapped, button rifled using state-of-the-art equipment and air-gauged to ensure minimal bore diameter run out for peak accuracy. JP Rifles also make a point of cryogenically treating all Supermatch™ barrels for cold bore shot predictability, minimum thermal drift, outstanding accuracy and extended barrel life. The barrel on the T&E rifle was manganese phosphate finished. The muzzle of the rifle was equipped with the JP compact compensator for 9mm AR type carbines threaded in the standard 1/2-36 TPI. It includes pin and pre-drilled barrel shroud features for pin & weld installation on 14.5” barrels to create a legal 16” configuration. Unique porting takes advantage of low residual muzzle pressure to maximize recoil reduction and muzzle rise on 9mm carbines. This also includes a crush washer for easy timed installation. There are sharp points on the end of the compensator which can be used for breaking glass or for “compliance”.

Another very unique JP Rifles feature is the JP Thermal Dissipator™. When it comes to transferring heat from the barrel, the JP Thermal Dissipator™ far exceeds traditional fluting and is intended for applications where sustained fire with excessive heat buildup is a problem, such as varmint rifles under hours of constant use. JP testing show that most heat resulting from sustained fire is developed in a 2- to 3-inch area in front of the chamber causing throat erosion and reduced accuracy over time, not to mention the problem of heat buildup in the hand guard itself that makes handling of the rifle difficult or impossible. Attaching this heat sink between the gas block and receiver will yield unparalleled heat dissipation by increasing the surface area under the hand guard by over 700% and providing more uniform barrel temperature under sustained fire. The JP Thermal Dissipator™ is an anodized, deep-finned 6061 extruded 2-piece sleeve available in black, silver, red or blue, giving a dynamic appearance when installed under a JP high-grade hand guard.

The rail on the T&E rifle is the JP MKIII hand guard system. Pooling the strengths of the Gen. 2 modular and more recent Rapid Configuration system in particular, the MK III combines the ever popular aesthetics of the tapered nut and beveled, fluted tubes with the patented attachment method of the RC system. This patented receiver attachment method is especially quick to install or strip for easy barrel replacement with an internal barrel nut that is a lifetime part that will not distort like other one-piece aluminum retention nuts that sometimes can’t even be used more than once. This accommodates unlimited rapid change-out of barrels as needed. This attachment method also eliminates the six attachment screws of the previous generation to increase the structural integrity and perfection of alignment to bore axis of the attachment system to ensure that any accessory devices can be easily sighted to point-of-impact. The precision of the system rises to a level comparable to monolithic one-piece systems. In fact, the JP top rail system is the only system other than true monolithic upper assemblies that offers rail continuity, meaning that the optional top rails pieces adjust to the upper receiver for rail slot timing as if they were one continuous piece of 1913 rail. This makes it possible to bridge the receiver and hand guard system with any optical mounting solution if so desired. The MK III system also supports several other platforms outside the typical AR-15 specification range such as Armalite, Knights and DPMS clones, making it the most versatile, all-encompassing system currently on the market. Finally, the MK III system unifies its predecessors by accepting both the fluted JP Signature and the newer Rapid Configuration tubes to accommodate those preferring classic design with those who’ve come to appreciate the elimination of backer plates on the rail attach points. In either case, reconfiguring the accessory systems takes only minutes and requires only basic tools. What’s more, unlike the competitor systems such as the Keymod, the MK III requires no proprietary hardware—just standard 10-32 screws available at any hardware store. With the compliment of accessories rails and mounting solutions that they currently offer, any sensible configuration in either tube design is possible.

Provided with the T&E carbines were two Glock 32 round magazines. Also the rifle was tested with Glock 10, 15 and 17 round magazines. The ammunition tested was Black Hills Ammunition 9mm 115gr full metal jacket as well as 115gr Tac-XP +P. Additionally Federal 9mm HST 124gr. There were 500 rounds of the Black Hills full metal jacket fired with no malfunctions. The carbine was never lubricated or cleaned during testing. One box of 25 of the Black Hills 115gr TAX-XP and 50 rounds of Federal HST. There were no malfunctions with the hollow point ammunition. The rifle was fired at 25 yards off hand. The biggest thing that stood out about firing the JP carbine was the recoil. It was noticeably less with the captured recoils spring. There was no spring noise in the receiver extension at all. The shot impulse felt less as well. The bolt held back on all empty magazines accept one. That was an old Glock Gen 1 magazine with a +2 extension plate. God only knows how many rounds had been through that magazine. Accuracy off hand was easily about 2 inches with all types of ammunition tested. The stock was comfortable to use, a little on the bulky side but comfortable. The testing was all done within an hour or so, the rifle did get hot but no cook offs. This was hardly enough ammo to truly test the heat sink on the barrel. Perhaps a selective fire carbine would be much better to test the merits of that excellent accessory. The optic chosen was the Trijicon ACOG Reflex Sight (RX01). This amber dot reflex sight was excellent for the short range this carbine was designed for. Shooting was done in a lower level light indoor range. The sight lit up without issue.

The JP GMR-13 is definitely in a league of its own. It is not the typical AR 9mm carbine. John Paul has made advancements to about every component. The Silent Captured Recoil Spring is an excellent development. The rifle was of excellent quality which one would expect from a company known for match grade rifles and innovative components. Reliable and accurate, the carbine is not cheap with an MSRP of $1999. This is a whole new level compared to the legacy 9mm carbine. JP builds these rifles custom for their customers with various barrel lengths, selective fire for LE customers as well as pistol models. You can have the expensive version with all these enhancements or a more basic rifle with a forged upper for $1499. They are built per order. Due to the cost and quality, do not expect the masses to have it. One who understands the quality and innovation of this carbine would have no problem spending the money to get the highest quality 9mm carbine in the industry.

If the first rule of a gunfight is to bring a gun, before it even comes to that… you should already have a light! It’s widely understood that dangerous encounters are more likely at night and indoors, both of which have a high potential for being low light situations. Even when significant ambient light is present, shadows and the positions of participants may necessitate the use of a personal light. From target/threat identification to avoiding physical hazards to movement, the utility of such a light shouldn’t be ignored.

Eliminating Excuses:

Unlike a knife or firearm, a light will serve the user well in multiple circumstances where a weapon is not needed and can be taken into secure areas without special permission. Furthermore, quality flashlights tend to be of modest cost by comparison to guns and knives or multi-tools. Like knives and guns, lights can be had in virtually limitless variations of size, power, and control options. For these reasons, one should never omit a personal light from their everyday carry.

Since carrying a weapon is a serious matter, so it follows, one should put a comparable level of consideration when choosing a companion light as well. The reader should consider that any time they feel the need to choose a particular piece of security equipment the need for a comparable level of utility in a portable light should already have been selected:

• Service size handgun–full size/power flashlight
• Personal/patrol carbine–longer range, high powered, or weapon mounted light
• Compact concealable handgun–small discrete sized hand held light
• Small pocket gun–miniature pocket light
• Spare magazine/speed loader–fresh duplicate batteries
• Second knife/gun accessible by operator’s support/weak side–back up light carried in alternate location
• Weapon lanyard and/or secure carrier–holster/lanyard for retaining light
• Firearm parts kit for range repair–replacement bulb, clip, lanyard parts
• Flat Dark Earth gun and/or carrier–comparable option for light and/or carrier

Options:

The main point of this article is that a serious gun carrier ought to insist on having a light with them at least as often as they are armed. Because adding a light imposes some burden of space, weight, and organization, the size of that choice often becomes the primary factor. Advice frequently given for firearms of choosing the biggest one you can use effectively and carry all the time is a great place to start. A bewildering array of small and powerful lighting products are available so a quick tour of the options is appropriate.

Controls:

Typical hand held lights are ~1” in diameter, 3-9” in length, and are activated by a push-button at the rear with a switch that goes on momentarily when partially compressed, and clicks to stay on when depressed all the way. This allows the operator to hold in a “fist up” orientation and control the output with the thumb of the support hand only. More complicated options exist that include strobe effects, variable output, and even programmable combinations with considerable variety.

These expanding features may seem tempting but without a similar increase in training and/or practice are sure to complicate their use when needed in a crisis. Most of us have little opportunity to train, practice, or engage in competition involving firearms in low light circumstances. If one chooses an unconventional or complicated light, they should spend some significant time getting used to deploying it alongside their weapon of choice even if all they can manage are dry-fire drills in the privacy of their home.

Quality:

Not all 1” rear pressure switch handheld flashlights are equal. An inexpensive model offered at the cash register of your local discount hardware store may look the part but not hold up to the rigors of daily carry and frequent use. The electronic connections, mechanical switches, threaded assemblies and lenses are all potential weaknesses if not properly constructed. Likewise, choosing good quality batteries or other consumables (e.g.-bulbs, lanyards, etc.) is equally important.

Brightness:

Without going into a lengthy discussion of output (often described in “lumens”), one should consider that the brightest light may not always be the best. The two main advantages of a high output light are increased range, which is less useful indoors, and the ability to temporarily blind or distract an adversary. On the other hand, a powerful light may generate more heat, consume batteries rapidly, draw fire or other negative attention, and in some cases produce reflections that can temporarily distract or blind the user.

Size:

Like concealable firearms, smaller lights tend to be favored for carry as long as they are capable of suitable output, duration, and can be successfully manipulated with one hand. A large light generally comes with greater battery life and if necessary can have additional utility as a blunt instrument to use as a contact weapon or to break glass as needed. Lantern lights with large flat bottom power sources and directional bezels can be positioned and directed for long term illumination into a hazardous approach or used to illuminate an area allowing the operator to use both hands as needed. The obvious portability limitation of a large light notwithstanding, one or more of them can be kept ready where there’s room enough to store a long gun.

Weapon Mounted:

As to long guns with a light, most mounting solutions are accessible using the support hand some distance down the barrel (to limit its shadow). A number of storage compartments are also available for modern long guns that can hold cleaning kits and spare parts or ammunition. Some are designed specifically for spare batteries and light parts for good reason but those things can also be stored in non-standardized compartments or with an ammunition supply off the gun. While rarely employed, a secondary light in or on a rifle or shotgun remains an option and can permit multiple lights to solve different tactical problems. The most useful of these combinations are low output LED’s for discretely navigating a dark indoor space coupled with a high output tactical light for target illumination.

Handguns with mounted lights can rarely be carried without some kind of specialized holster that accommodates the light. Likewise, those same holsters tend to be less effective when the light is removed. Adding or removing a light from a sidearm is at best a 2-handed process requiring some fine motor control–both of which are problematic in a crisis. Whether on a pistol or long gun, some combinations permit quick removal of the light while others are more permanently mounted in place. The versatility of a removable light that can go from a rifle to a pistol or used as a handheld torch must be weighed against a more secure mount and weapon specific ergonomics. Having more than one light might be the better choice.

Weapon mounted lights are frequently activated by a pressure switch that allows constant or momentary illumination. Those that require grip compression may be problematic if the ergonomics promote fatigue or have a potential to relate sympathetically with the shooter’s firing hand. Pressure switches that have wires between them and the light will permit the user to fine tune the location of the activation but can snag during movement and manipulation. This writer prefers a thumb actuated switch directly on the light for these reasons.

Techniques:

For normal use, most of us need little instruction on how to use a flashlight to find our car keys on the floor of a dark theater but using sound tactical techniques for such a task is good practice and may help you avoid irritating a fellow moviegoer. Tactical use generally means controlling and manipulating the light with one hand and judiciously limiting the path of the beam to items you need to illuminate for the minimal duration required to accomplish your task. Ironically, the greater skill with a tactical light lies in limiting the use so you don’t waste battery life or unnecessarily telegraph your location.

Limiting light exposure by only illuminating for brief periods and using the lowest available setting is the most common way. For circumstances where the light is overly bright for the situation, cupping your fist around the bezel can obscure most of the output and control the rest by releasing your grip at one end is another. A colored or semi-opaque lens cover can dull the output of a light and if attached to a flip open lens cover can be rapidly moved in and out of the beam path. It also helps to keep in mind that the closer one can get to something the better the light will be at illuminating it effectively. Another significant skill is combining moving and light activation to avoid being targeted. If avoiding potential threats, even if not actively engaging them, moving just after deactivating a light is a sound practice. If moving with a light on, altering direction for subsequent movement with the light off will help prevent tracking. Keeping the beam spot of a light farther from the operator prevents targeting from angles behind the user and when going to or from low ready it’s important to only activate light when on target so that the moving beam spot doesn’t track back to a user’s feet.

When searching continuously with a light it’s important not to crowd cover for the same reasons. A beam spot can reflect back to the source if close and passively illuminate it from the surface. Lighter surfaces will reflect more intensely than darker ones and reflective surfaces can cause additional sources of secondary illumination. An astute observer may also see the shrinking size of a beam spot and deduce the approach of the source as it moves. Handheld lights not attached to a weapon allow the user to place some distance between their cover or firing position if they extend the light arm above or to the side of their location. If taking a stationary position, the light can be turned on and rolled out away from the shooter or otherwise placed so that they illuminate a target area from another angle and source. Placing a light in a hallway and backing away from it will offer some concealment even if cover is not available. Likewise, leaving the light entirely and taking up a different position can distract opponents. These tactics are even more sound if one has a secondary light at their disposal so they don’t have to abandon their only source of illumination.

Additional Considerations:

Using a light as an impact weapon or visual assault on an aggressor can be an intermediate step in a force continuum prior to employing a firearm. Scalloped bezel surfaces may enhance an impact effect; however, this often comes at the cost of reclassifying the item as a weapon in certain jurisdictions (such as TSA regulations for air travel). Law enforcement training has trended away from teaching the use of a hand held light as an impact weapon so the user ought to limit plans for that circumstance or seek out dedicated martial arts training for that purpose.

The majority of new lights employ LED sources instead of traditional incandescent bulbs. LED’s are more durable, consume less battery life, generate less heat, and their color can be selected from the lighting elements used in manufacturing. Multiple LED’s can be employed in their construction to give output and programable options. The colors of these lights and beam spots tend to be more monochromatic than incandescent bulbs and those peculiar colors may have unpredictable reflection colors when shone on fluorescent or unusual surfaces.

Any small light will have a finite battery life and tiny pocket tactical models may have a battery life on the order of minutes. If sitting unused until emergencies, they can be counted on to deliver that life unless the batteries are particularly old or experience corrosion. If a light is in normal use there are no “fuel gauges” to let the user know their power source is near empty. Another hazard is inadvertently switching the light on in a pocket or holder–choosing a carrier that prevents this is well worth the expense and real estate on one’s belt. This particular unit from Holster’s Plus (see: http://www.holstersplus.com/collections/light-holders/products/m3-batt-pack and “batt-pack_grande.jpeg” image) will hold a removable weapon mounted light and two spare batteries while locking the switch in place.

Tactical illumination is not without drawbacks. Weapon mounted lights can loose the deterrent effect if their brightness conceal the handgun attached to them. Dust and muzzle gasses from firing can be lit like a fog obscuring targets from the user while silhouetting their position for adversaries. Reflective surfaces like glass and mirrors have the potential to blind the user or their teammates during a search. Weapon handling while using a light requires an extra dimension of skill but there are fewer opportunities to train and practice under low light conditions. If one has a light in a tactical situation, the correct approach may be to stay dark and avoid giving away their location. Without that light; however, there is no option to use it!

In part I of the Interview In SAR Volume 20 Number 9 SAR gathers the background on Barrett Firearms and Chris Barrett’s participation in the growth of the company. We take up the story at that point…

SAR: What is Barrett’s recent interest in creating a medium machine gun?

Chris: A while back a solicitation come out in the Commerce Business Daily. It was part of the network that people used for Government Contract announcements. Nowadays it is called Fed Biz Ops. The solicitation was for a lightweight version of the M240 series. Primarily replacing the Bravo version. Eventually this turned into what the M240 Lima is today. What we thought was really the case was that the solicitation was written so one particular contractor could quickly win it, written between the lines, and a Commercial Off the Shelf product would be available.

Apparently they were looking into a lightweight M240 at the same time the solicitation came out as well. We were very disappointed at that after we had invested so much energy into our design. Regardless, we saw the solicitation and we put the Barrett brain to it. We looked at the M240 and saw all these different rivets and small parts and thought to ourselves, “With a modern CNC machine can’t we make all of this one piece? Can we turn sixty some pieces into one part?”. And the answer is “Yes, you can.” The riveted design has a lot of short comings. One, it is built like the Titanic, old school, steam power, this is how we built things in the industrial revolution. It has laminations between metal. This is where corrosion and rust like to start. Anytime two pieces of metal are touching together, what happens between them? Oxidation. Any fastener eventually comes loose, a simple principle of firearms design. Anything designed to come loose, does. And rivets are a kind of fastener. So we designed a hardened 4140 steel receiver, that alone was four pounds lighter than the standard 240. It is simple, and proven. So we feel that the solution that the Army received in the Lima was not particularly creative at all. It is not wise to say, “Let’s take a great design and just make every part out of titanium.” That’s not how you select material as an engineer, by just selecting material based on one attribute. Titanium isn’t the ideal application for what that machine gun is used for. I would call it a misunderstanding of design intent. We just have a simple and elegant solution to a problem. We’ve really been paying attention to the design recently as well. We started with the receiver, the heart of the gun, and now we are moving out from there, on to many different parts of the machine gun. We will have several patents on components of that machine gun by the time we are production ready. As an example, the original handguard design with the tri-Picatinny rails clamps onto the gas tube. It tends to heat up very quickly during a course of fire. So the handguard has to be a huge block to keep your hand way from it, with heat insulators to further keep the rails from getting hot. We decided to say, “We’re not touching it”. Ours doesn’t even touch the gas tube, it bolts to the front of the receiver and free floats as you will along the gas tube. We removed the bipods which also used to be mounted to the gas tube, and that is connected to the barrel. I know that a machine gun is not a sniper rifle, but I want my machine gun to hit where I’m aiming. And even on that gun, with that heavy of a barrel, as that gun gets warm and I’m putting pressure from my head on the butt stock, that deflects a barrel and could have detrimental effects downrange. So we moved the bipods to the handguard, which is already free floated, so you are not affecting the point of impact. Your handguard and your bipods are still getting some heat radiated off of them but it is nothing compared to the previous design. Then you have the ability to quickly remove the bipods. If you damage them or need to get them out of the way in a hurry, then you can easily remove them with ours, but with a conventional M240, you have to take some time to take them off, time you might not have. We also redesigned the butt stock, feed tray cover, even some of the internals. Then we did the 240 LWS, the Lightweight Short. It is four inches shorter, but with the same system. It is a machine gun, the size of the Mk.48 in overall length, almost the same weight, but it is a 240. And the 240 is an undeniably reliable machine gun. The Mk48 is not what the 240 is, when it comes to reliability. What we think we have done, is that we have created a machine gun that is the same package size of the Mk48, but has the unwavering reliability of a 240.

SAR: Has there been any further input on the 240 LW outside of the U.S. and have there been any sales?

Chris: Yes, we’ve actually sold some 240 LWs to two countries now, one of them in northern Europe. They are very discerning customers, and they love our design so far. We’ve worked with them a lot on the design and throughout the experimentation process. We’ve got some interest from more, but this kind of thing takes time.

SAR: The Model 82 has made Barrett unique in that since its inception, the company doesn’t have any direct competition when it comes to a .50 caliber, long range, anti-material rifle.

Chris: There is an enormous value to being first in a field, and not only being first but also having a quality product. You almost have to be negligent to be caught off guard in that case, to get caught by competitors. We’re persistent with our platform, we have a rifle that is 30 years into maturity, and they are only getting better. We’ve got a tremendous amount of field testing from militaries all over the world as well. Things you cannot duplicate in a laboratory or design shop have resulted in the M82A1, with the enhancements to the bolt carrier group, are really at the heart of why that rifle works so well. But then the rifle became the M107. So dad built the rifle and it had some limited military usage, and I believe it was Sweden’s military EOD teams that were the first to pick it up. A huge misconception we have is that this rifle was developed for military usage and in reality, it wasn’t, there wasn’t a requirement out there that it would fill. People thought it was a bad idea to begin with. Ronnie Barrett, a photographer, who played with subguns and belt feds, wanted to shoot a .50 caliber firearm, but didn’t want to own an M2. But the military started seeing a use for it, and it just took off from there. We modernized it even further with the M107A1, which made it a lot lighter, more precise, and it takes a suppressor. It was a block of enhancements, some from feedback, some from things we knew we had to change from experience of building the rifle. Well the U.S. Military has not adopted the M107A1 because like a lot of things in Government procurement, things can take a while to happen. So the U.S. has not adopted it, but several other countries have adopted it as their first anti material rifle. Norway, Denmark, to name a few. We also offer an A1 upgrade to militaries that have the M107, in which we cut the rear of the buttstock off and put a polymer piece in it, with adjustable length of pull, and an integrated monopod socket with a Picatinny rail. This also allows for the fitting of a spade grip to the rear of it from which you could fire the weapon from inside a vehicle more easily than the traditional grip. We changed many of the little features as well, when it comes to tolerances and fits. In the beginning the M82s were 3 or 4 MOA rifles, we have multiple M107A1s that are shooting 1 MOA today. However one of the biggest downfalls of the rifle is the ammunition. Throughout its history it has mostly been employed with machine gun ball ammunition and it needs precision rounds for long range work. We handload our own rounds here for that purpose.

SAR: What are some of the recent changes that have influenced the company?

Chris: When it comes to employees, as we have become more efficient, our employee to rifle ratio has not grown. Our peak employee count was during the M107 fulfillment because we had to surge our production. But what has happened in the last three to five years is that we’ve gotten better leadership which has led to better efficiency. Now we are back down to around 110 employees, but are making more than we ever have before. It’s processes, and technology. We are getting better via technology but are keeping that Barrett “DNA” of the people that make it happen. We still have craftsmen, but we are leveraging technology as much as we can. In essence, to get to the ragged edge of performance, it costs a lot. The difference between a rifle that can shoot 1 MOA and one that can shoot .5 MOA, well that last .5 MOA is going to cost you a higher percentage than getting to 1 MOA. But the people we’ve added, the executive leadership team has been instrumental in changing the way the company operates, through the efficiency, the quality, and the customer satisfaction level. Especially our Vice President of Operations, is one of our unsung heroes. He isn’t from the gun industry at all, he’s from the automotive industry. Our sales head, he’s from this industry, and you have to have that. The sales guy has to know who to call, how things work within it, etc… But at the operations level, I didn’t want that. The gun industry compared to other industries is largely immature. As an example many companies have still been building guns gunsmithing style, fitting them together. He has changed the way we work in that he brought in a hospital like mentality of keeping everything clean, having quality control checks. He is the reason why we build more products today than ever, with more quality, more efficiency, with less defects, and with fewer people. I like to think we follow the Thomas Edison model. Edison was a brilliant designer on his own accord, but he didn’t design everything he came out with. He was the creative director of a group of people that he pushed to get what he knew he wanted. That’ is why he created so many industries and that is more or less where I want to see Barrett go. It is fantastic to have a Ronnie Barrett that put together the M82, but we are trying to get a whole group of equally talented designers, who are pushing the envelope. That is where I see us going. He is still here with us though, out on the floors, still very involved in everything that is going on. But for the future, we are looking into getting the right gun design team to be able to free him up and keep our products going. We are trying to stay above the trenches and see out as far out as we can, predict trends and so on. Sometimes the world’s greatest products were not from necessity but from someone saying, “Hey, this is where we need to go”.

SAR- So where does that put the company in the future? Where will Barrett be in 3-5 years?

Chris: I want to really broaden the Barrett brand so that it is accessible to more people in more markets. For example we’re pushing into the smaller calibers, the AR market. Because we started with the super niche, the M82. We’ve also got the .416 Barrett, which everyone thinks of as a California legal round, but it is so much more than that in that it is an exceptional cartridge of its own accord when it comes to long range precision. It should change what people consider to be long range. Long range used to be a thousand yards, it used to be three hundred yards a long time ago. Well I’m going to say that long range is now over two thousand yards. We want to be optimizing platforms for that cartridge. We want to offer the Barrett name to customers who might not have a need for a .50 caliber rifle. That’s why you see us with the REC7, and the MRAD. We have also launched a sub-brand of high end shotguns. We like hunting, we like traditional sporting guns too, but that doesn’t fit under the traditional Barrett brand though. We’ve got our Barrett Sovereign line of over and under shotguns, that we just introduced at SHOT show. A lot of people love the Barrett brand but they aren’t going to buy an anti-material rifle. Take for instance the Safari Club International folks. As another example we’ve acquired the assets of Forbes rifle company, a hunting rifle manufacturer, which makes some really light hunting rifles. I would like to see us as the Beretta of the United States, in that their product line up is very extensive. We’re not going to quadruple the amount of M107A1s we make, it is just not going to happen. So as a company that started at the highest echelon of performance, you can only go so far with that. You have to make products that appeal to a broader market if you want to grow. Back to us, the more products we make, the better we get, and the better our flagship products are. You just learn things from making that many more products that you wouldn’t have found out by just making just a few. That technology trickles up and down.

The successful use of the silenced Sten Mk II S for the British Special Operations Executive (SOE) also aroused the U.S. Ordnance Department‘s interest in a suppressor for SMGs. Founded in June 1942, the Office of Strategic Services (OSS) could use such a weapon for it’s own special operations and to support resistance groups in Europe and the Pacific Theatre. The M3 seemed to be well suited for that purpose.

Standard.45 ACP rounds fired from short barreled submachine guns are inherently subsonic, it is one of the most powerful pistol calibers available for use in suppressed weapons. Suppressors reduce the audible report by slowing down and channelling the high speed gas generated by the burning and expanding gunpowder before it exits the muzzle. Suppressors cannot act on the supersonic shock wave continuously generated by a bullet exceeding the 1,084 ft/s (332 m/s) speed of sound at 32 °F (0 °C) ambient temperatures. This shock wave is continuously produced throughout the entire flight path over which the bullet is supersonic, which extends long after it exits the barrel. One major disadvantage of automatic and weapons, however, remains: the unavoidable noise of the moving internal parts when the spent case gets extracted and the next round gets automatically loaded. So a weapon with suppressor is not completely silent, but it lacks the typical hard “bang“ and for the enemy it is more difficult to locate the direction of the sound’s source.

The first trials with suppressed M3 submachine guns were already being held in 1942 at Fort Benning (Georgia). These devices were based on the designs of Hiram Percy Maxim, with curved vanes of thin sheet metal, but were not convincing. The design was heavy, the gun became extremely top-heavy and the suppressor heated up quickly during continuous fire. Two different models were tested, a long one with 20 inch barrel and a shorter one with 12 inch barrel. Because of the unsatisfactory results, the tests were discontinued.

In 1943, the Ordnance Department contacted the company Bell Laboratories on behalf of the OSS concerning the development of a suppressor for the M3. The production of the suppressor parts and the assembly should take place at the High Standard Manufacturing Company in Hamden (Connecticut). The production of special barrels and modified barrel nuts (collars) was assigned to Guide Lamp. The first order was for 1,000 devices. Whether and in what quantity follow-up orders have been placed is not known. One of the big advantages of this suppressor design was that the standard M3 barrel could be removed and the suppressed barrel could be quickly screwed on in its place.

The outer form of the special barrels of Guide Lamp did not differ from the standard serial barrels. However, a total of 48 holes were drilled into the barrel (in four rows of 12 holes) to allow gases to escape as the bullet was fired. Each hole had a diameter of .25 inches. The muzzle was threaded at a length of about .5 inches. The barrel nuts were taken from the serial production and have been modified at the front to serve as a support for the rear end of the suppressor.

The suppressor itself is comprised of two sleeves. The rear sleeve (barrel covering) of 7.5 inches length and 1.5 inches in diameter forms the expansion chamber and is filled with a stainless steel wire mesh cylinder, which is fitted over the barrel.

The threaded muzzle part of the barrel protrudes from the expansion chamber. The actual suppressor housing (barrel extension) is attached to the barrel covering by a connecting piece (barrel extension retainer) that is screwed onto the muzzle thread of the barrel, thus locking the covering in place against the modified barrel nut. The extension of 7 inches length and 1.13 inches in diameter contains 230 perforated discs of stainless steel wire mesh. The front end of the extension is closed by a screwed-in end plate.

When the projectile travels down the bore some of the propellant gases escape through the 48 holes in the barrel into the expansion chamber, where they are slowed down and cooled by the steel wire mesh. When passing through the connecting piece, the projectile leaves the barrel and moves through the perforated steel wire mesh discs in the barrel extension. Here the remaining gases are trapped for a short time and cooled down and then escape into the surrounding air.

The influence of the suppressor on the noise is described in a test report from Aberdeen Proving Ground as follows: “While the silenced barrel does not completely eliminate the sound, the reduction of the report makes it difficult to determine the exact location of the weapon when being fired at a distance of 50 yards or greater. The sound heard by the individual varied with his position with respect to the weapon. When the individual was in the line of fire or forward of the gun muzzle a louder sound was heard than when positioned at the rear of the gun. When positioned at the side or at the rear of the gun the noise caused by the operation of the mechanism was most noticeable.”

The use of the suppressor, however, deteriorated the impact of the projectile on the target. Tests showed that an M1 steel helmet will not be penetrated at a distance of 75 feet. Using a standard barrel without the device, it was no problem to perforate the helmet even at greater distances. Also it was found out that the projectiles sometimes strike the edge of the central opening in the front end plate of the barrel extension, thus damaging it. Pieces of the bullet jacket were lodging in the sleeve behind the plate. In some cases the end plate was shot out of the sleeve and the installed wire discs fell out. This problem was caused by the not absolutely rigid connection of the two sleeves. The connecting piece is screwed only onto the muzzle thread and so the alignment of the barrel extension with the bore of the barrel is difficult because the suppressor is too flexible. The connection does not withstand the leverage effect of the long protruding extension. A slight enlargement of the opening in the plate to a 0.550 inches diameter solved the problem.

The care and maintenance of the suppressor proves somewhat complicated. In particular, the perforated steel wire mesh discs are difficult to accommodate in the barrel extension. If they slip in the housing or get deformed, the way of the projectile is not free and it can hit and damage the discs (thus reducing the suppressing effect). As already mentioned, the barrel extension could easily deviate from the exact alignment with the barrel – especially during transport. For this reason, a special tool has been issued with each suppressor: An “aligning rod” should be installed inside the suppressor during transport or shipment as a stabilizer. It reaches from the cartridge chamber of the barrel to the front end plate of the barrel extension and should prevent bending of the two sleeves. By means of a detachable handle, this stabilizer could also be used as a cleaning rod. Every suppressor was also issued with a special “barrel cross-hole brush” for cleaning the 48 small laterally holes and a sheet metal “barrel thread protector” to be screwed on the thread of either the suppressor or barrel nut (depending on which part was in use). Two versions of the protector cap were made. The early one with a smooth back was often hard to remove, so the design was changed and the later ones got a square pressed-in recess for applying a tool.

According to the reports, the use of the suppressor improved the accuracy when firing automatically. This fact is probably due to the increase in barrel weight and dimensions and to the lower velocity, causing lower recoil energy. Another positive effect is the elimination of the muzzle flash. No flash was observed when firing the suppressed weapon at night.

The M3 and M3A1 without suppressor are indeed relatively accurate submachine guns. But they are no sniper weapons. Although the suppressor improved the accuracy it was almost impossible to get a precise, targeted hit with a single shot – which of course would have been optimal for a silenced weapon. The demand for development of a special suppressed submachine gun with high accuracy was often mentioned in the test reports but went unheard. Despite all efforts, the Bell suppressor was only about 80% as effective as the British counterpart of the Sten Mk II S. This fact has been determined in a shooting competition in Aberdeen. Nevertheless, the suppressor remained unchanged and was successfully used in Korea, Vietnam and other conflicts.

The highly decorated Vietnam veteran Jim Bolen for example used a suppressed M3 in his time with the Special Forces. He later wrote down his experiences in his recommendable book “No Guts, No Glory”. As a leader of a reconnaissance unit he survived more than 40 top-secret MACV-SOG missions (Military Assistance Command Vietnam – Studies & Observation Group), which among others took him to Laos and Cambodia. He remembers the suppressed M3 very well:

“Normally one member of the recon team carried the M3 with an integral silencer. It was a 45 caliber and was used as a RON (remain over night) gun in case at night an enemy, civilian or even animal would accidentally happen on us we could kill same without giving away our position or even the fact we were in the area and also for prisoner snatches to get in and out without being compromised. The weapon was reliable but with the amount of ammo needed for a mission it was very heavy. My gear weighed between 95 and 110 pounds depending on the mission. Weight was always a big problem on our missions, which was the reason we generally didn’t carry large weapons such as the M-60, large amounts of claymores or hand grenades, on standard missions. When using the M3 on a prisoner snatch mission the weapon is usually broken down and divided between all team members to distribute the weight then assembled when needed.

The M3 had one disadvantage in combat, yes. More than one occasion when carrying the silenced M3 I would be confronted by NVA. Normally I would have the advantage by opening up first on full auto using my CAR-15 with every round being a tracer. This would scare the hell out of the enemy. But when I am carrying a silenced weapon and I open up on them they don’t realize I am shooting at them and start returning fire ASAP. This is the truth and I will testify to it.

Incidentally the High Standard Manufacturing Company also made a suppressed version of its small-caliber pistol “H-D” (.22) for the OSS at the same time. The design of the suppressor came from Bell Laboratories and was very similar to that of the M3 with its two chambers and the stainless steel wire mesh parts. The gun was based on the suggestion of Deputy Directors for Research and Development Stanley P. Lovell. From October 1943 until March 1944 2,600 pieces with the designation “MS” (Military Silent) have been delivered.

While fighting in Vietnam a lot of foreign weapons fell in the hands of the Americans – including numerous Grease Guns that were made in China. Some of them were equipped with suppressors. However, since the OSS suppressors were not marked, it remains unclear whether these suppressor were originally made in the U.S. or in Chinese workshops. An interesting finding is that the wire mash cylinder in the expansion chamber was often replaced by an oil-soaked felt in many of these suppressors.

Me and my team practiced a lot on the firing range with what ever weapon we were required to carry on a specific mission. Do this we would take the silencer apart and clean the original screens with a wire brush and cleaning compound, once they become clogged it reduces the silencing capability. Never noticed any round being quieter than another. I know when we use the .223 round with a silencer we have to use the first 3 rounds sub-sonic because of the crack sound of the high velocity .223 round.”

I once met an Israeli Aviator when I was a soldier. He asked me how far the nearest organized military threat was from my family. I answered truthfully maybe 5,000 miles. He observed that his children went to school 30 minutes by T72 tank from the nearest army bent upon the destruction of his people and his nation. Such stuff pervades their national consciousness. The Israelis are born fighting.

The birth of Israel as a contemporary nation in 1948 grew from the ashes of World War II and the aftermath of the Holocaust. 24 hours after the burgeoning state declared its independence and statehood its Arab neighbors invaded. Israel has been at war on and off ever since.

Early on, the young state of Israel was in dire need of weapons. Support for Israel by the international community has always been intermittent at best so developing a domestic source for small arms was a top priority for Israeli leaders in the years immediately following independence. This institutional desperation drove Major Uziel Gal to design the Uzi submachinegun, arguably the most robust and efficient subgun ever devised. The Uzi was heavy at around 9 pounds but it fed from 25 and 32-round box magazines, was built efficiently via industrial metal presses, and ran anywhere anytime no matter what. In so doing the Uzi kept the fledgling state of Israel alive during some of its most desperate hours and was subsequently exported to hotspots around the globe. Uzis were used by several European countries and were produced by FN under license. They were also liberally distributed across Africa. The Secret Service agents protecting President Reagan during his well-publicized assassination attempt carried Uzis.

The developing Israeli Army employed German and British surplus bolt action rifles like the Kar98k and Lee Enfield. Their first standardized infantry rifle was the FN FAL. While the FAL was a superb weapon for fighting in European forests it was found to be marginally reliable in the sandy places where Israeli soldiers served. As a result, drawing from the success of the Uzi submachinegun, Israeli military planners set out to develop a domestically produced Infantry rifle that could serve reliably in the wretched spaces around Israel.

Development

A genetic hybrid is an organism engineered to incorporate the most desirable traits within a species. Hybrid corn grows faster and resists pests better than its forebears. Hybrid cows are optimized for milk production or succulent steaks. Hybrid chickens are so perfected for human consumption as to be nearly unrecognizable compared to their feral precursors. Genetic hybridization makes good things better.

The design competition to select a new Infantry rifle for the IDF (Israeli Defense Forces) stretched from the late 60’s into the early 70’s. Uziel Gal himself submitted a design. Captured Kalashnikovs along with U.S. M16A1’s and Stoner 63 rifles joined the fray. The Germans entered their HK33.

Israelis Yisrael Galil and Yaacov Lior designed a hybrid rifle that drew from several different sources. At the end of one of the most grueling small arms tests in history the eponymous Galil rifle reigned supreme. Incorporating the side-folding stock from the FAL, the long stroke gas piston system of the revered Kalashnikov, and the small lightweight chambering from the M16, the Galil strived to incorporate the best features of all the world’s successful small arms into a single robust rifle design. The resulting hybrid rifle can hold its own even among today’s more modern offerings.

The basic chassis of the Galil was actually built around a handful of milled Finnish Valmet receivers commercially obtained and then smuggled into Israel. Using these components as a starting point, the rifle’s Israeli designers rethought everything else about the guns. In the final analysis the Galil was arguably the most soldier-friendly military rifle in history.

Broad Brush

The Galil is heavy. The gun weighs more than 9 pounds empty and feels unusually substantial in the hands as a result. The folding stock is copied directly from that of the FN FAL and folds to the right. The stock locks at the hinge and deploys instantly with a quick slap. The familiar ranch gate safety from the AK series guns is retained but there is also a corresponding thumb switch on the left of the rifle. Interestingly, Physics dictates that this switch moves backwards from what one might expect. Pushing the switch forward puts the weapon on safe. Moving the switch backwards with the thumb to ready the rifle for firing is a bit of a chore. Selector positions for the ranch gate safety are the same as those of any of the 100 million or so Kalashnikov rifles currently in service. Up is safe, all the way down is semiauto, and the middle position is rock and roll.

The rear sight mounts on the rear of the sheet metal receiver cover. While this grants a longer sight radius and subsequently more comfortable shooting than might an AK, the cover is innately unsteady and most move about just enough to ensure that the Galil will not be a tack driver. Practical tactical accuracy is fine, however. The rear sights incorporate a pair of pivoting peeps as well as an ingenious flip-up glowing night sight. Windage and elevation adjustments are undertaken on the front sight and there is a flip-up night sight on the front as well.

The charging handle reciprocates with the bolt and angles upward for easy access by the left hand. Front handguards can be of either wood or synthetic material and the sheet metal tube over the gas piston is left exposed. There are several different sorts of flash suppressors and the example on my rifle has a spring-loaded wire to retain rifle grenades prior to firing.

The receiver is standard milled AK fare replete with lightening cuts on the front. Magazines are of the heavy steel AK sort and typically carry 35 rounds when fully loaded. Fifty round versions were produced, as were stubbier versions to hold rifle grenade launching rounds. The magazine release is easily accessed by the left thumb and incorporates a sheet steel guard to minimize the risk of inadvertent activation.

Little Things

The Galil is the archetypal soldier’s rifle. The Israelis know ground combat intimately and their small arms designs reflect this reality. The Galil can be configured to accept a folding bipod and this bipod sports a built in set of wire cutters for reducing wire obstacles.

Back in the days before ubiquitous canned soft drinks Israeli leaders noted a problem with soldier behavior in the field. Israeli soldiers were sometimes using the magazines from their FALs and M16s to pry the caps off of glass beverage bottles. The flimsy aluminum magazines used by these weapons readily deformed in the face of this practice and threatened the reliability of the weapons in question. Where American leaders would have responded with harshly-worded directives simply prohibiting the practice, the Israelis built a bottle opener into the handguard of the Galil rifle.

In the rifles equipped with bipods there is a slot running the length of the bottom of the handguard to allow the bipod to stow out of the way when not in use. There are hardened steel hooks incorporated into the near end of this slot specifically designed to open glass beverage bottles. Given the large percentage of reservists who make up Israeli combat formations, the practicality of this feature simply reflects Israeli pragmatism as regards military operations.

Variants include two different short-barreled carbine configurations, one of which is short with the other being tiny. There is also a .308 version intended for use with a telescopic sight in a designated marksman role. The basic Galil design has been widely exported as well as produced in a variety of countries under license.

Range Work

The Galil rifle is steady in operation and all but recoilless thanks to its prodigious heft. Accuracy is perhaps a bit better than most Kalashnikov variants while stopping short of that of a tuned AR. Magazines rock in and out like those of an AK and the Galil has that same long creepy Kalashnikov trigger.

The overall effect is comparable to running an AK74 in 5.45x39mm only a bit heavier. Those zippy little 5.56 mm rounds shoot flat at reasonable combat ranges and the heavy bolt combined with the milled steel receiver seem like they could take a great deal of punishment. The angled charging handle is indeed more easily accessed with the weak hand by right-handed shooters.

Rate of fire on fully automatic is 650-700 rounds per minute and the gun is eminently controllable during burst firing. The gas tube does get frightfully hot in short order after long strings of fire though the beefy handguard does a better job at insulating the operator’s support hand than might the conventional wooden AK sort. Slings mount via hooks on the left side of the rifle as they should. The gun may be run with the stock folded though thus configured the ranch gate safety is a bit tough to manage. The long 35-round box magazine makes firing from the prone a bit of a chore but this is a problem common to most modern high-capacity Infantry rifles.

Grand Scheme

The Galil was formally adopted by the IDF (Israeli Defense Forces) but this was during a time when the U.S. was offering M16A1 rifles at bargain basement prices. In the aftermath of the 1967 Six Days War and the comparably desperate 1973 Yom Kippur fight the Israelis badly needed modern rifles but American M16’s were both available and cheap. As a result Galil rifles served concurrently alongside these American weapons for years.

During a recent trip through Israel I exhaustively documented the small arms we encountered. TAR21 Tavor bullpups were fairly ubiquitous as were American M4 carbines in two broad configurations. One sort was the standard U.S. GI model with a 14.5-inch barrel stepped for a grenade launcher while the other sported a barrel of comparable length that was of a thin profile throughout its span. The TAR21 rifles all incorporated a conventional short trigger guard that wrapped solely around the trigger finger whereas commercial versions in the U.S. today sport the full length version akin to that of the Steyr AUG. This was early 2014 and I did not encounter anyone carrying a Galil in active service.

Israel requires mandatory military service for both genders and IDF soldiers are required to carry their rifles as well as a magazine or two of ammunition with them at all times while home on leave. Weapons carried in public typically sported optical sights, usually Trijicon ACOGs or domestically produced Israeli Meprolight rigs. They were all carried with orange plastic empty chamber indicators in place atop a loaded magazine that could be put into action at a moment’s notice. This practice ensures that most public spaces are populated with a couple of fit young well-armed soldiers at all times. For this reason terrorist attacks in contemporary Israel seldom last very long. I have never felt safer.

The Galil is a reflection of the Israeli national mindset. Rugged, dependable, and over-engineered yet versatile while remaining soldier-friendly, the Galil was arguably the most effective Infantry weapon in the world when it was introduced. Not unlike growing corn or breeding cows, when you take the best traits you can find and combine them into a single entity the results are undeniably effective. Combining the salient strengths of three major established weapon systems, the Israeli Galil was a soldier’s rifle in a nation forever at war.