NEW REVIEW: OCTOBER 2002

By Chris A. Choat

PANTHER™ LITE 16 FROM DPMS

DPMS is proud to introduce the new Panther Lite 16. The Panther Lite 16 utilizes a number of features which distinguish it from current models and it is reminiscent of early, lightweight carbines. Standard features include: 16” 1X9 twist post ban 4140 chromoly barrel, relieved to .650 under the handguards and at the muzzle, a pinned (non-collapsible) fiberite CAR stock, hard chromed bolt carrier, carbine handguards, investment cast lower receiver, forged A-1 upper with windage adjustment, ejection port cover and brass deflector. Both upper and lower receivers of the new rifle are hardcoat anodized (per Mil-A 8625A) and Teflon coated black. Overall length of the Panther Lite 16 is 34 1/8 inches. Weight is less than 5 3/4 pounds without magazine. Suggested retail for this rifle is $699.00.

DPMS/Panther Arms is pleased to announce the acquisition of Del-Tone Gun Club in St. Cloud, MN. The new name for the gun club is Del-Tone/Luth Gun Club. Del-Tone/Luth Gun Club is a facility built and managed with the shooter in mind. It is located on 85 acres totally dedicated to shooting. Available ranges include a 200 yard rifle range, a 100 yard rifle range and a 50 yard pistol range. Some of the many facilities and services that are available include trapshooting, skeet shooting, sporting clays, archery range with 3-D targets, dog kennels, campground, and a retail facility with reloading supplies, ammunition and target sales. Del-Tone/Luth Gun Club provides a perfect partnership for DPMS/Panther Arms. This new partnership will enhance DPMS’ ability for the promotion of the shooting industry. By having a shooting range available, DPMS engineers can test and evaluate rifles in a real shooting environment. Randy Luth, owner of both DPMS and Del-Tone/Luth Gun Club is anticipating the future move of DPMS’ facilities to the Del-Tone/Luth Gun Club. By combining both a shooting range and a rifle manufacturer on the same property, the possibilities for a shooter are endless. For more information contact Luth Unlimited, LLC, Dept. SAR, 3322 12th Street SE, St. Cloud, MN 56304. Phone: 1-320-251-9873. You can also contact DPMS Inc., Dept. SAR, 13983 Industry Ave., Becker, MN 55308. Phone: 1-763-261-5600. Fax: 1-763-261-5599. Their web site is www.dpmsinc.com.

REUTERS AND PRENTICE HALL PUBLISH AFGHANISTAN: LIFTING THE VEIL

Reuters, the global information, news and technology group, and Prentice Hall have published Afghanistan: Lifting the Veil, a compelling compilation of photographs and text from Reuters award-winning journalists and photographers covering over forty years of conflict in Afghanistan. Through essays and approximately 150 photos, Afghanistan: Lifting the Veil provides a unique insight into the cultures and people of Afghanistan and their struggle to survive through decades of bloodshed and turmoil. Traveling throughout the cities and countryside of Afghanistan, over 25 experienced Reuters’ correspondents and photojournalists chart the Afghan conflict covering key moments in Afghanistan’s history including the Soviet occupation and the rule by the Taliban. It brings events right up to present day with the U.S.-led war against Osama bin Laden’s al Qaeda network and the Taliban, and reviews the future of this war-torn country. The book also explores the development of this complex country through the experiences and stories of the people who live there. It considers the changing role and conditions of women, and looks at the other significant changes starting to appear in modern day Afghan society. Afghanistan: Lifting the Veil is available online and in bookstores nationwide, and is priced at $29.00. For more information visit www.reuters.com/books.

STREAMLIGHT INTRODUCES STINGER FLASHLIGHTS

Streamlight, Inc., a leading manufacturer of high-intensity flashlights for law enforcement applications, has introduced their new Stinger HP™ and Stinger XT HP™ rechargeable flashlights. Modeled after the original Stinger and Stinger XT, the new flashlights deliver increased power (almost three times more) in a design officers have long appreciated. What distinguishes the new Stinger HP and Stinger XT HP from their predecessors is the “HP”, which stands for high performance and represents the significant increase in power that they deliver. The Stinger HP and the Stinger XT HP lights deliver up to 40,000 candlepower, which is almost three times the power of the original models. In addition to the increased power, the high-performance lights offer all the features that law enforcement and corrections officers have come to depend on with the original Stingers. The Stinger HP remains equipped with a spare bulb in its tailcap. Intended for tactical use, the Stinger XT HP features a rubber tailcap switch that is easy to find in any orientation, and is designed with a non-slip rubber grip. The high-performance lights, which are fitted with xenon-halogen gas filler bi-pin bulbs, feature momentary and constant on switching to give users flexibility in operation. Nickel cadmium rechargeable batteries power the flashlights for up to one continuous hour between charges. Highly durable, the new lights are encased in virtually indestructible machined aluminum and feature unbreakable polycarbonate lens. The enhanced lights, which feature AC/DC recharging capabilities and two charger holders, are available with a steady charger, fast charger or the piggyback™ Charger. They both have a lifetime warranty on the body and switch and a one-year manufacturer’s warranty on the battery and charger. An optional Stinger UltraHead Upgrade Kit is available for current Streamlight Stinger and Stinger XT owners to convert their flashlights to the new high-performance lights. The upgrade kit, which consists of a Stinger bulb and a reflector/lens assembly that easily retrofits on to existing models, increases the lights’ candlepower from 15,000 to 40,000, and lists for just $34.95. For more information on these and all of Streamlights other high intensity lights contact, Stream light, Inc., Dept. SAR, 30 Eagleville Road, Eagleville, Pennsylvania 19403-3996. Phone: 1-610-631-0600. Fax: 1-610-631-0712. Web site: www.streamlight.com.

RIP CORD TACTICAL KNIVES FROM PHANTOM KNIVES

Phantom Knives has recently launched an innovative line of knives called Rip Cord. These new knives are described as “the fastest deployable knives in the world”. They provide users with a legal, one-handed, instant opening mechanism. The knives’ high-tech blade has excellent cutting action and glides through tough fabric with ease. The curvature in the blade increases the cutting surface, while keeping the sharp edge out of harm’s way, and cups seatbelt webbing preventing slippage when seconds are vital. The patented TEK-LOK buckle system can be attached to a harness or web gear and can be worn vertically or horizontally. The unique mechanical design has the blade recessed in the handle and is attached to a “key”. As the handle is withdrawn, using one hand only, the blade simultaneously deploys and locks positively in the open position, When putting the blade away, the “key” disables the lock and allows the blade to retract smoothly into the handle and stays secure until it is needed again. Phantom Knives has several models available including the RESCUE geared toward fire, police and emergency response people, the TACTICAL and the MEDALLION which can be worn around the neck on a stainless steel beaded chain. For more information on these and other innovative knives contact Phantom Knives, Dept. SAR, P.O. Box 127, Three Rivers, MA 01080. Phone: 1-877-400-8641. Fax: 1-413-289-2372. Web Site: www.halperntitanium.com.