By Dan Shea

One of the more interesting things that we have been discussing is how the well of surplus militaria appears to be drying up. Those of us out in the world market are always looking for the next pile of MP44, MP40 or other guns to turn into parts for collectors to use, and the sources just don’t seem to have them like they used to. Ammunition is also hard to find, at least reasonably priced in good condition. The factors involved in importing to the United States add a lot of cost, and dictate how much can be paid for the remaining piles of surplus out there. Other countries have different rules, and places like the UK make it fairly easy and inexpensive to own “De-acs”, their version of a welded up dummy gun. Since the UK regulations don’t require destruction of the receiver, there is one major step cut out in preparing a dummy gun, compared to the US rules. One problem that arises is when US citizens travel abroad and think they can bring back a welded up “De-ac”. After all, it is totally non-functional, isn’t it? Not to the US – the receiver is still considered a machine gun.

The Post War surplus binge is slowing, and the morning after is setting in. We sit and complain that there is hardly anything left to find, and what will we as collectors be able to get, then someone like IMA pulls a major coup and brings in the Nepalese collection. Bravo on that one! There was probably twenty years of work in bringing that deal together. Something like 150 early cannons, maybe a dozen Nepalese Bira guns – I had only seen one previously – under a staircase at Fort Nelson in the South of England. Jonathan Ciener and the SAR Expeditionary Force were looking over my shoulder as we rooted through the entrails of the museum, and it took almost five minutes to figure out what that wheeled mounted gun was, and when we did, well, that was pretty exciting. Now there are some in the US!

I think it is exciting to bring the stories behind where the surplus finds are made to our readers. Part of the collecting bug is finding something unusual, and learning the history, the path it took from being made to sitting in your display. In this month’s issue, there is mention of the Chinese connection on many machine guns, and several US surplus distributors have scored large piles of these surplus items and brought them in. Recently, Omega (Don Bell) had some really neat Chinese DShK parts – excellent sights in their boxes among others. G3 twenty-round magazines are touching well under five bucks apiece. Some really nice stuff is coming out of the Balkans. A lot of our advertisers are bringing in some primo collectable stuff, and the prices seem reasonable.

Maybe the well isn’t so dry after all. Maybe there are a lot of hidden caches of interesting historical arms and accessories left. I have to have faith in that. As I travel, I keep looking, and while the big warehouses of the sixties, seventies and eighties seem to be empty, there appear to be plenty of places left out there with interesting finds.

It ain’t like it used to be, but it’ll do.

Small Arms Review Convention anyone? Plans are in the works for a full tilt boogie SAR convention in Las Vegas during June of 2005. We plan two days of seminars, three days of a 2,000-table gun show, manufacturer’s demos, panel discussions, booth displays area, and a banquet. We are trying to nail this down before the Fall Knob Creek, but the venue hasn’t been decided yet, and before we can do this, we have to have a convention hall. Keep checking the website- www.smallarmsreview.com for more info on this. If you have been to the Small Arms Review Gun Show in Phoenix in December that we do with Crossroads of the West Gun Shows, then you know what a good time that can be had at one of our shows. Hope to see y’all in Vegas!

–Dan

By Robert Hausman

Approximately 200 industry-related representatives attended the third annual ATF & The Imports Community meeting held in Alexandria, Virginia on July 19-20, 2004. Issues addressed were a new U.S. Customs program bringing the benefit of less frequent inspections on imported goods, an announcement that the U.S. government’s policy on the re-importation of U.S. origin firearms is about to change and details on the status of post-ban over 10-round firearm magazines if the federal ban expires in September.

The meeting opened with a notation by Lewis P. Raden, ATF Assistant Director, Office of Enforcement, Programs and Services that the National Firearms Act (NFA) Forms 2 and 9 are expected to become available electronically next year. Problems in developing an E-signature process are holding back the debut of the electronic versions of the forms. Raden emphasized, however, “ATF is committed to making its regulation of the industry more efficient.”

The ATF Imports Branch was still operating without a chief during the time of the meeting and Raden said the agency was working to find a qualified person who will want to stay in the position. ATF has experienced a high turnover rate of Imports Branch chiefs in recent years.

Change in U.S. Origin Retransfer Policy

An anticipated change in the U.S. government’s retransfer policy (of presumptive denial) on import of U.S.-origin defense articles (to one of presumptive approval) was detailed by David Quinn, Deputy Director, U.S. Dept. of State Bureau of Political-Military Affairs, Office of Regional Security and Arms Transfer Policy. This change, if made, will result in the allowance for importation of a great many historical firearms. The change may or may not affect the importation of U.S.-origin ammunition.

Foreign-produced copies of firearms, the designs for which originated in the U.S., such as M-1 Garands, would be treated as qualifying for U.S. importation, Quinn said. He added, however, that the U.S. government would likely seek reimbursement for the firearms if they were provided to the foreign government under a foreign assistance program. Reimbursement would also be sought for foreign-produced copies of firearms that originated in the U.S. (such as the M-1 Garand) under the theory that the copies were produced based on U.S. technology. He acknowledged that it was possible for the Dept. of State to consider waiver applications for the reimbursement fees if the individual situation was deemed to warrant it.

Though the government’s position will change to look more favorably on such imports, every transfer would still have to be reviewed by the State Dept. to ensure the proposed transfer is legally appropriate. Importers seeking to re-import such goods would have to have the seller seek authorization to transfer the goods to the importer for reimportation into the U.S. in advance of the transaction.

As background, Quinn explained that Section 38(b)(1)(A)(i) of the Arms Export Control Act (AECA) states, “Such regulations shall prohibit the return to the U.S. for sale in the U.S. (other than for the U.S. armed forces and its allies or for any state or local law enforcement agency) of any military firearms or ammunition of the U.S. under this Act or any other foreign assistance or sales program of the U.S….”

In December 1987, Section 38(b)(1)(B) enacted a limited exception for “curios and relics” pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 925(e)(1). However, by its own terms, this provision does not override the Secretary of State’s authorities under the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 and Section 2 of the AECA to control retransfers and disposition of U.S.-origin arms, Quinn detailed. The 1987 amendment does not affect the Secretary of State’s power to “consent” to retransfers and does not require that firearms covered by it be licensed for import; rather it simply forbids application to these firearms of the rule that the regulations must prohibit their return to the U.S., Quinn said.

The President of the U.S. has control over the export and import of defense articles. This power derives from Section 38(1) of the AECA which states in relevant part, “In furtherance of world peace and the security and foreign policy of the U.S., the President is authorized to control the import and export of defense articles and defense services and to provide foreign policy guidance to persons of the U.S. involved in the export and import of such articles and services.”

Executive Order 11958 of January 18, 1977 delegates the President’s authority to issue permanent import licenses pursuant to section 38(a) of the AECA to the Secretary of the Treasury. However, as specified by delegation orders, “In carrying out such functions, the Secretary of the Treasury shall be guided by the views of the Secretary of State on matters affecting world peace, and the external security and foreign policy of the U.S.”

What all this means to importers is that the divesting government is required to have the prior consent of the President of the U.S. (or the Secretary of State by delegation) prior to the transfer of U.S. government-origin defense articles to another country or a private entity. The Secretary of State has statutory control over the retransfer of such defense articles, Quinn explained.

For transfers of “significant military equipment” (such as cannon, mortars and the like) the presumption of denial policy will apparently remain in place. The very limited exceptions to a presumption of denial would be an import in support of a government contract or for use in a demilitarized static museum display. A U.S. private entity desiring to import such articles would have to provide end-use and retransfer assurances and title may not transfer until the goods are within the territory of the U.S.

Questions to be Answered

In a review of questions the Dept. of State often asks of importers desiring to bring goods into the U.S., Quinn recounted the following queries which importers should be prepared to answer:

• How did the seller acquire the defense articles, from whom and when?
• Can the seller prove that the goods were not derived from a government-to-government transaction?
• Can you, the importer, prove to the State Dept. that these articles were not derived from a government-to-government transaction?
• Did these articles originate in or transit through a proscribed country?
• If these articles were exported via direct commercial sales, do you have documentation to evidence their lawful export/retransfer with consent of the Directorate of Defense Trade Controls?

Quinn added that the Directorate of Defense Trade Controls has become busier in recent years. It is now processing 60,000 applications a year, compared to 40,000 annually seven years ago.

Project Shield America

An industry outreach program, called Project Shield America, designed to obtain assistance and cooperation from manufacturers, sellers, importers and exporters of U.S. origin technology, dual-use items and munitions in enforcing America’s import and export regulations was detailed by special agent William Puff, Arms and Strategic Technology Investigations, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

ICE works with several governmental entities to enforce export and import controls, the Dept. of State, Directorate of Defense Trade Controls regarding the export of military items, the Dept. of Commerce, Office of Export Enforcement on the export of dual-use items, and ATF on import of arms and munitions.

A variety of investigative techniques is used to enforce the regulations, Puff revealed, including overt investigations and undercover operations. This includes undercover operations in which items prohibited from export from the U.S. are offered to exporters in an attempt to see if they would be willing to break the law. Thus, it is incumbent upon exporters to know the law and to know whom they are dealing with. Operation Blue Lantern is a joint program with the Dept. of State to verify that exported commodities did reach the persons listed on end-use certificates.

AWB Expiration

At the time of the meeting (mid-July) the question of whether or not Congress would renew the federal ban on so-called “assault weapons” had not yet been decided. The likely consequences for industry of the expiration of the 1994 ban were detailed by Teresa Ficaretta, ATF Associate Chief Counsel, explosives (firearms & arson).

If the law did sunset on September 13, ATF would have issued an open letter to the industry advising that the restrictions on post-ban over ten-round law enforcement magazines as well as those for receivers of those firearms presently designated under federal law as so-called ‘assault weapons’ were “meaningless,” Ficaretta said. The result would be that such magazines “could be freely sold.”

Ficaretta cautioned however that the restrictions in federal law on the importation of firearms designated as so-called “semi-automatic assault weapons” would remain in place after September 13 as these restrictions are contained in a different section of federal law that is not due to expire.

International Regulations

The U.S. government conducts an average of 10,000 traces of firearms annually on behalf of foreign governments, noted keynote luncheon speaker Stephanie Pico, Senior Policy Advisor, small arms/light weapons for the Dept. of State, in a presentation on international efforts to control the international arms trade. The U.S. federal government opposes international registration of firearms as has been considered by organizations within the United Nations, but the U.S. does support implementation of international marking requirements for firearms consistent with current U.S. federal law, Pico explained. Form 6 Update

ATF is working to allow electronic filing of attachments to the E-Form 6 in MS Word format, noted Mary Jo Hughes, the then outgoing chief of the ATF Firearms and Explosives Services Division.

Hughes noted that ATF is only getting 30-40% return filings of Form 6A for imported goods at their offices from importers. She stressed that the burden remains on the importer, not the broker, to file Form 6A for every import coming into the U.S.

Hughes also held up a thick stack of returned imports conference invitations that were mailed to all holders of Type 08 and Type 11 licenses to stress the ATF reporting of change of address requirement. When a licensee moves, the new address must be reported to ATF within 30 days. Licensees should keep local zoning regulations in mind when considering a new site as ATF will not renew licenses for businesses situated in locations that are in violation of local zoning ordnances. The imports conference was the last one in which Hughes appeared in her role as Chief of the Firearms and Explosives Services Division, a position she has held for the past 3-1/2 years. She has since become Chief of Staff, Enforcement and Programs Directorate at ATF.

Hughes’ successor in the Imports Services branch, Audrey Stucko, was introduced at the meeting. She is said to have an extensive background at ATF.

C-TPAT Members Inspected Less

A U.S. Customs and Border Protection program, which brings the benefit to member firms of an 8-times less likely chance of being chosen for Customs inspection, was detailed by Jerome Luczkowski, the program’s manager.

Customs – Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (C-TPAT), first announced in November 2001, now has nearly 6,800 members composed of importers, brokers, carriers, etc. It was mentioned that the number of inspections for those firms who are not members have increased recently. To learn more about joining C-TPAT, go to: www.cbp.gov, click on “imports,” and then click on the C-TPAT banner.

At the conclusion of the seminar, Hughes said it would likely be held again next year, possibly in a location that will allow a greater number of attendees if the agency’s budget allows.

The author is the publisher of the small arms industry’s most widely read trade publication, The New Firearms Business (a bi-weekly that covers the domestic small arms industry). For subscription information, send an e-mail to: FirearmsB@aol.com

By Chris Choat

NEW MIRAGEFLAGE PATTERN FROM DURACOAT

Lauer Custom Weaponry has introduced another striking pattern in their extensive line of Duracoat finishes. The new pattern is called MirageFlage and is available in Desert, Wilderness and Urban color combinations. The new pattern features small squares that make up a digital or “pixilated” design. The new pattern, as well as all of the Duracoat finishes, can be end user applied or the host firearm can be sent to Lauer Custom Weaponry for a factory applied finish. Lauer Custom Weaponry offers kits for the home refinisher that contains all the colors needed as well as Peel ‘n Spray Templates and an instructional DVD. Lauer Custom Weaponry has more color combinations than you can imagine and they can even custom tint colors to any color desired. The finishes can also be made to any sheen level desired from ultra flat to high gloss. Duracoat can be applied to almost anything from metals to alloys to wood. No preheating or baking is required but it can be applied to preheated materials and it can also be baked. It can be applied in various thicknesses and additives, such as prisms or flakes, can also be used. Duracoat is resistant to most lubricants, cutting oils and bore solvents and offers excellent resistance to impact and abrasion. For more information on the new MirageFlage pattern as well as all the other patterns and colors that they have to offer, please contact Lauer Custom Weaponry, Dept. SAR, 3601 129th Street, Chippewa Falls, WI 54729. Phone: (800) 830-6677. Fax: (715) 723-2950. They can be found on the web at www.lauerweaponry.com.

NEW GLOCK MAGWELL AND RAIL COVERS FROM BUFFER TECHNOLOGIES

Weighing in at less than an ounce, the new Glock MagWell from Buffer Technologies is one of the lightest accessory magwells now on the market. At 0.7 ounces, Buffer Technologies new magwell weighs about the same as a single round in the magazine. The new magwell is perfect for law enforcement or concealed carry because it adds so little weight to the host weapon. The new Glock Magwell is made of injection-molded, high-intensity nylon that matches perfectly the finish of regular Glock frames. Buffer Tech’s new magwell is not light weight when it comes to performance. It fits any full or mid-sized Glock frame with no modification. A simple hex-head wrench will tighten the patented locking device into place with no slippage or movement. The beveled edges of the magwell easily guide the magazine into place for fast, fumble-free reloads. This makes the new magwell ideal for law enforcement as well as competitive shooters. The new MagWell has a retail price of $29.95. Buffer Technologies other products for Glocks include a recoil buffer, armorer’s tool and satin and black anodized finish scope mount and a very well made compensator. Another new product is their TangoDown rail covers. The TangoDown rail covers are the new standard in rail covers surpassing anything on the market. The ability to lock into any position on the rail and a fool-proof locking mechanism are but two of the features that make this rail panel the one by which all others are judged. Two models of rail covers are available, the standard cover and the cover with a built-in pocket that will accept the two types of pressure switches that are currently in use by our military. This eliminates the need for Velcro, inner tubes, glue or sticky tape in order to hold the remote switch for a lighting or sighting device. The rails also feature a non-slip surface, which is achieved by laser cutting the mold in a unique pattern that assists the operator in maintaining control of the weapon even under the most demanding conditions. The 6-inch rail covers can be cut to custom fit whatever length is required. The new covers retail for just $11.95 for the standard and $24.95 for the rail with pocket for pressure switch. Buffer Technologies has been long known for its other products which include their patented recoil buffers for almost all firearms, their MagCinch dual magazine clamping system and their TangoDown grips for military assault rifles. For more information on their extensive line of products, contact Buffer Technologies, Dept. SAR, P.O. Box 104903, Jefferson City, MO 65110. Phone: (877) 628-3337. Fax: (573) 634-8522. They are on the web at www.buffertech.com.

SIGARMS INTRODUCES THE SIG SAUER TACTICAL KNIFE

SIGARMS Inc. has just announced their new line of proprietary tactical knives for police, emergency services, military and civilian applications. Long known for the To-Hell-And-Back-Reliability of its SIG SAUER line of pistols, SIGARMS has extended the same innovative design and manufacturing excellence to their new SigTac tactical knife series. Created with input from frontline officers, soldiers and others who use these important tools daily, there is no wasted component. Everything needed is there, and unnecessary clutter and hype is missing. The SIG SAUER Folder takes the lines of the famous SIG SAUER P226 auto pistol and blends them into a tough, tanto-style blade design. With a blade of AUS 8 steel, reversible pocket clip, dual easy opening thumb stud, Zytel grip, liner lock and available serrated blade, the SIG SAUER folder is as rugged as it looks. Overall length is 8.5 inches and folded just 3.75 inches, which makes it compact enough for daily carry. For more information about these new knives as well as their full line of firearms, contact SIGARMS, Inc., Dept. SAR, 18 Industrial Drive, Exeter, NH 03833. Phone: (603) 772-2302. Fax: (603) 772-4795. Their website is www.sigarms.com.

ROC-STEADY MUZZLE STABILIZER

The ROC-STEADY muzzle stabilizer was introduced as a new product back in 1997. The original design has been redesigned and improved and has now been reintroduced as the ROC-STEADY Muzzle Stabilizer from ROC-Tec, Inc. It is now better than ever in controlling recoil and muzzle climb. The ROC-STEADY stabilizer vents high-pressure gas from the discharge of a round to do the work of keeping the muzzle of the firearm on target during rapid or full-auto fire. The ROC-STEADY design allows the operator dual adjustment, angle and magnitude to fit his or her individual body mechanics. The average operator can adjust the ROC-STEADY to actually depress the muzzle during full-auto fire. The ROC-STEADY is made from aircraft grade 4130 chromium-molybdenum alloy steel and finished to withstand extreme conditions. The new stabilizer is 100% American made. At this time, the unit is available for the M16 family of weapons, the AK47 family and will be available soon for the M14/M1-A series. For more information, contact ROC-Tec, Inc., Dept. SAR, P.O. Box 309, Pecos, NM 87552. Phone: (505) 757-8456. Their website is www.roc-tec.com.

G22 BULLPUP .22 RIFLE FROM WALTHER

Walther has a long-standing tradition of producing small bore rifles that have been outstanding shooters and Olympic Gold Medal winners. They now continue that tradition with their innovative Walther G22 Bullpup rifle. The Walther G22 employs the “bullpup” design for the first time on any Walther rifle. This new rifle with its full line of accessories is perfect for hunting, competitive shooting or just plain old plinking. The G22 features its fire controls and magazine incorporated into the rear of the stock. This allows for an extremely compact rifle with fast handling capabilities. The length of the stock on the G-22 can be changed to fit the shooter by the use of spacers. The gun also has fully adjustable sights plus a Weaver-Style rail on top of its built-in carry handle, which allows the addition of optics of the shooters choice. The rifle also has a rail under the barrel as well as under the forearm for the addition of lights, bipods and lasers. On the topic of lasers, Walther has its own specially made for the G22. Other accessories include scopes, lights, extra magazines, a red dot sight, sling and a specially designed carrying case. The buttstock also houses an extra 10-round magazine. While the standard rifle can be had in basic black, it will also be available in colors. For more information on this innovative rimfire, please contact Walther (Smith & Wesson), Dept. SAR, 2100 Roosevelt Ave., Springfield, MA 01104. Phone: (800) 372-6454. On the web at www.waltheramerica.com.

Robert G. Segel

As the Holiday Season draws near, it is the time to reflect upon peace, home and family. This is particularly true as it pertains to the soldiers in the field. With loved ones so far away, one’s thoughts drift to a quiet time and place and dwell upon ones hopes and desires for a peaceful resolution. The thoughts of loved ones returning safely home to family and friends takes on a gripping urgency in times of mortal conflict. The long tradition of sending Christmas wishes and Season’s Greetings does not take a back seat just because the soldier is thousands of miles from home and sitting in a foxhole or trench. If anything, it is even that more important. Though times have changed, the sentiment has not as we look at a selection of vintage cards sent home to loved ones during the World War I and World War II periods. Some express a simple sentimental message while others convey pride in their machine gun unit affiliation. Some are strikingly serious while others use humor to convey the message. Whatever the depiction, the underlying message is clear.

Jeff W. Zimba

The QCB (Quick Change Barrel) M16 Upper Receiver is one of the most radical modifications to the AR-15/M16/M4 weapons system that the author has seen to date. While I am not aware of any other weapon system with so many options, accessories and available configurations, the list of options continues to grow at an amazing pace. There are countless manufacturers who have products and upgrades for this family of firearms, from muzzle brakes to custom stocks and every piece in between. Some are simple attachments and enhancements such as grips and scope mounts, and others are so radical that the rifle hardly even resembles the original “Black Rifle” anymore. The MGI QCB Upper Receiver falls into the latter category, in both design and function.

Quick-change barrel mechanisms are common in machine guns but are more of a rarity in assault rifles. Examples of QCB systems in larger machine guns would include the M60, the Stoner 63 Rifles, M249, the M240 and the M2HB-QCB by FN-Herstal. The newer M96 Expeditionary Rifle by Robinson Armament also utilizes a QCB similar to the Stoner 63 System it was based on.

Mack Gwinn, the designer of the M2HB-QCB, designed this latest addition to the QCB family. Having over 25 firearms related patents, and founding several firearms companies including Bushmaster and MWG, Gwinn is far from a newcomer to the world of gun design. MGI Military currently offers several upgrades for the M16 weapons system. Their product line includes a rate-reducing buffer, regulated gas tubes, the D-Fender D-Ring and will soon be offering a new lower receiver with interchangeable magazine wells, allowing the user to use common magazines in different calibers. Other products in line for production also include open-bolt firing mechanisms and an open-bolt/closed-bolt mechanism. (Watch future issues of SAR for a feature on these once they are in production).

A major advantage of the M16 weapons system is the modular design. Using one lower receiver as a platform, the part the BATF considers the firearm; the owner can effectively have several different rifles just by purchasing new parts. Generally, most of these parts, regardless of manufacturer, are interchangeable with little or no modification. This, combined with the fact that it has been a primary service rifle for over 40 years and there is a huge inventory of surplus parts, makes it extremely easy to maintain and reconfigure as desired. This huge inventory of parts was not overlooked when the MGI QCB was designed. As radically different as it looks and performs, it actually uses standard barrels. All the owner has to do is remove the original delta ring, barrel nut, sling swivel and front handguard keeper and it is then completely compatible with the MGI QCB upper receiver. This means no expensive, custom or additional proprietary barrels to buy and can be used immediately with all your standard barrels. While none of these changes are permanent, the barrels can always be reconfigured to attach to the factory, standard upper receiver again.

Presently, all MGI QCB upper receivers are manufactured in a flat-top configuration. A 6-inch, MIL-STD-1913 rail interface is mounted on top of the receiver in place of the standard carry handle. On the handguard, there are three more MIL-STD-1913 rails for attaching accessories: a 6-inch rail at the 3 o’clock and 9 o’clock positions and a 2-inch rail at 6 o’clock. The receiver is based on the M16 design utilizing the small front takedown pin so it is completely compatible with all M16s and most AR-15s. Some of the Colt AR-15s use a larger front takedown pin so a reverse offset pin is necessary to replace the factory one.

With an overall length of only 15 inches, the MGI QCB upper receiver gives the shooter the advantage of having an extremely compact rifle. For comparison, a standard upper receiver with a 16-inch barrel is almost 25 inches long. Utilizing an MGI QCB upper receiver, a complete M16 or AR-15, including a 16-inch barrel, with upper receiver, lower receiver and optics can actually fit completely in a standard briefcase. This gives a professional operator such as a bodyguard or special-ops member an amazing amount of firepower in a smaller package than ever before.

To install a barrel in the MGI QCB Upper Receiver, all you do is push down on the spring-loaded barrel release lever retainer, swing out the release levers, insert the barrel, and close the barrel release levers until they snap into place. Barrel changes are accomplished in only seconds. The shooter can be afforded the luxury of having several barrels for different applications that can be changed faster than ever before. Caliber changes are made with ease without the burden and expense of needing additional upper receivers.

The finish on the handguard portion of the MGI QCB upper receiver is a non-glare black phosphate and is made from aluminum keeping the unit lightweight. There are 24 circular cooling vents giving the handguard a similar appearance to a Browning M1919 barrel shroud. The handguard is attached to the upper receiver and is completely free-floating, transferring absolutely no tension on the barrel.

All units are personally test fired by MGI staff before shipping and are guaranteed to function with your standard barrels. Test groups are fired and the barrels are removed. The barrels are reinstalled and test fired again to confirm continuity in the grouping. The rifle will only be as accurate as the shooter, the barrel and the ammunition combination will allow, but the group placement always returns upon disassembly and reassembly of the barrel and upper receiver.

During test firing, the author utilized several barrels with absolutely no failure to function with any of them. For purposes of testing different calibers, 5.56x45mm, 7.62x39mm and .22LR were used. A custom 9-inch, dedicated .22LR barrel was used for that caliber, combined with one of Jonathan Ciener’s .22LR Atchisson kits. It functioned without any problems in both semiautomatic and full automatic. Where no gas tube is necessary in the .22LR configuration, a standard barrel may be cut very short without regard to the gas block. The gas block is no longer necessary as a method of handguard attachment so the length of the barrel is determined by the user’s imagination.

One thing to note when changing barrels is the bolt carrier must be locked in the rearward position before attempting to remove a barrel. The locking lugs of the bolt otherwise engage the locking mechanism holding the barrel firmly in place. With the Atchisson .22LR kit, the lack of locking lugs may lead you to believe that the barrel can be removed without locking the bolt carrier rearward. However, the bolt hold-open device does not function with the Atchisson kit due to its short cycle, and it was discovered that when the barrel was removed with the kit installed, the kit would slide forward with the buffer often following it. The result was usually a jammed up rifle. It is recommended that if you are utilizing an Atchisson .22LR kit, it should be removed before changing barrels in the MGI QCB upper receiver.

Conclusion

The author, being a big fan of the M16 weapons system, has had the opportunity to test a countless number of enhancements, attachments and upgrades in the past. Only a few have been as drastically altered from the original design as the MGI QCB upper receiver. Some have been manufactured to look different but this enhancement has been designed to function entirely different. The ability to change barrels so fast and easy gives the shooter an added flexibility over the original design. Configuring your rifle for different tasks can now be accomplished in seconds. A shooter can go from a light barrel to a heavy barrel and from a short barrel to a long barrel in lightning speed utilizing the MGI QCB upper receiver.

The decrease in size when the barrel is removed provides a much smaller package than the original system, giving operators more storage options than before.

The end user now has the option of purchasing spare barrels without needing spare upper receivers. This keeps the expense of barrel and caliber changes to a minimum.

Cleaning the barrel, especially the chamber and locking area, have never been easier. Now that completely removing the barrel to get at this section only involves throwing a couple of levers and a spare second or two, the user can maintain his weapon system better than ever before.

The unit tested by SAR for this evaluation performed exactly as the manufacturer claimed it would and exceeded the expectations of the author. With a suggested retail price of $550.00 (barrel and bolt with carrier not included), the MGI QCB upper receiver provides the serious AR-15 / M16 collector and shooter opportunities never before possible. As of this writing, units were in stock and shipping regularly.

Robert Gudz

After the ban on importation of “non-sporting semiautomatic firearms” by George H. W. Bush in 1989, the HK94 9mm rifle (the semiautomatic version of the HK MP5 9mm submachine gun) has become an ever increasingly valuable firearm. Prized by both collectors and Class 3 aficionados for a host weapon to turn into a transferable MP5 sear gun, the HK94 that cost in the neighborhood of $850 retail in 1988, can currently be found selling on the internet and at gun shows for between $3,500 and $4,000. Such prices put the HK94 out of the range of most recreational shooters. This fact has led a few enterprising firearms manufactures to produce their own “clones” of the HK94 under various trade names in the past few years, with limited success. While considerably less expensive than an original HK94, these clones were of poor mechanical and cosmetic quality, leaving the consumer with the meager choice of low cost/low quality or high cost/high quality.

Bobcat Weapons, Inc.: the Company

Bobcat Weapons, Inc., of Mesa, Arizona began business in April of 2003 with the objective of rectifying this problem. Owner and founder Andy Bonas saw the need for a reasonably priced, well made HK94 clone that would allow the average firearms owner to get the feel and reliability of the HK94 for the price of a normal semi-automatic rifle. Mr. Bonas is a Mechanical Engineering graduate of Penn State University. He was a design engineer at Action Arms in Philadelphia (working on the UZI submachine gun, semi-automatic carbine and explosive devices) before moving on to other West Coast DoD contractors working in the explosive device design field for DoD and DoE contracts.

Andy reports that many customers ask him about any links between Bobcat Weapons and another company, Special Weapons, Inc., that recently produced similar rifles. Andy is very frank in his explanation of the relationship. “Todd Bailey, the founder of Special Weapons Inc., was a friend of mine. I actually worked with him at TRW to develop new airbag technology. So we kept in touch on and off over the years. When I decided it was time to venture out into my own business, I contacted several friends that I had developed over time to look for opportunities. When I called Todd, it just so happened that he had decided to shut down the civilian sales side of his firearms business because he wanted to focus his resources on law enforcement, military and foreign government sales. After several conversations, we struck a deal. I would develop an independent company with its own identity to produce and distribute firearms (HK clones) for the civilian market. My company would have exclusive access to all of the Special Weapons Inc. owned supplier tooling and parts in exchange for a license fee and the commitment to purchase parts through Special Weapons Inc. Thus Bobcat Weapons was founded in April 2003 as an Arizona Corporation.”

The initial plan for Bobcat Weapons Inc. was to begin producing a 9mm HK94 clone, which would be called the BW-5, and offer it in 2 styles: the Standard and the FS (Fake Suppressor). Bobcat Weapons began producing sub-assemblies in December 2003, debuted the rifles at the February 2004 Shot Show and shipped the first rifle on March 1, 2004. In the first 2 months of production, 120 rifles had been delivered to customers and, as word of mouth spread, Andy reports that sales are increasing at a tremendous rate each month. The company maintains a stock of rifles in both Standard and FS configurations and most orders are shipped within 24 hours of receipt.

The BW-5 and BW-5 FS Rifle

As with the MP5 and the HK94, the BW-5 family of rifles is blowback operated with a stationary barrel and delayed roller lock bolt system. The firearm fires from the closed bolt and feeds 9mm ammunition into the fluted chamber via a 10 or 30-round MP5-type magazine. The rifle is shipped with one 10 round magazine.

Bobcat Weapons currently offers two models of the BW-5 9mm rifle. The BW-5 “standard” model features a 16 inch barrel, a metal “SF” clip-on lower with a plastic pistol grip, standard button magazine release, and an A2 style fixed stock to comply with the current “Assault Weapons Ban”. The BW-5 “FS” model has the same basic features as the standard model except rather than a metal lower; it has a polymer pictogram lower and a paddle magazine release mechanism. In addition, what the author believes is the most attractive feature, is an 8.875 inch 3-lug barrel to which a fake suppressor (hence the “FS” designation) is pinned to allow the overall barrel length to comply with the 16 inches required of Title 1 firearms.

The BW-5 rifle is made of a mixture of US made and imported surplus MP5 parts that are refinished to new condition. (See table for a list of parts from 27 C.F.R. Part 178.39 and their source of manufacture.)

The BW-5 receiver is made of high-grade steel in the U.S. and is stamped, formed and welded to specifications matching that of the HK94. According to Mr. Bonas, “There is a common myth that HK receivers are heat-treated, because the bare receivers are discolored, which causes some people to believe that the receivers are stronger than receivers that are not heat-treated. Actually H&K anneals the receivers during the stamping process. Annealing is a common process used to alleviate work hardening of the material to make the stamping process easier. Thus annealing makes the receiver material softer and less likely to resist wear and tear. Bobcat Weapons receivers are not annealed, so the receivers are actually stronger than the H&K receivers.”

The barrel is billet machined stainless steel and is rifled with a 1:10 twist rate. The barrel blank is manufactured by Green Mountain Rifle Barrel Company. However, a Bobcat Weapons Inc. supplier machines the barrel’s final dimensions, chamber, chamber flutes, and rifling. Earlier barrels had 12 flute chambers, which is true to the original HK design. Current barrels are machined with 16 flutes for added extraction reliability and match the most recent HK improvements. The barrel is button rifled, like the MP5 and HK94, but is made of corrosion resistant stainless steel to provide extraordinary life and durability. The same barrels were used in the Special Weapons SW5 machine guns produced over the past few years. Andy reports that there are several guns at a rental range in Las Vegas: “Those rifles are returned for re-barreling every 70,000 to 90,000 rounds and re-barreling has been performed several times on each rifle. That means the BW-5, being a semi-auto, should easily last 90,000 rounds while HK MP5s have a demonstrated barrel life of less than 40,000 rounds.”

The barrel handguard and buttstock are made in the US from high-impact, heat-resistant engineered polymer for durability, strength and thermal stability. The polymer lower on the FS model is made from the same material. Bobcat Weapons offers OD green color furniture (stock, pistol grip and for the FS model – lower) as a no cost option for both rifles.

On both models, the standard metal finish is a black epoxy coating, which yields exceptional durability and visually nearly matches exactly the current finish on the HK MP5 submachine gun. The coating process is considered proprietary and is done by an outside supplier that specializes in this kind of finish. An all OD green finish is available for an additional $25.00. In addition, the rifle can be ordered with a camouflage finish in black Tiger Stripe, Woodland or Desert (chocolate chip) patterns. The custom camouflage costs an additional $25.00 and is a regular gun paint finish.

There are two notable features of the early BW-5s that do not precisely mimic the HK94 or MP5: the cocking tube housing and the sling clip on the magazine-well housing. However, the most recent models have been upgraded to a “ribbed” cocking tube housing and a riveted sling clip. According to Mr. Bonas, “Bobcat Weapons is dedicated to continually upgrading the BW-5 series rifle to improve reliability and more closely match the original HK94 and MP5.”

Every Bobcat Weapons rifle is subjected to several quality checks, including a test firing before it is cleaned and packed for shipment. Quality checks include laser bore sighting (after welding) to insure the rifle receiver is straight, three separate head space checks, roller function check, ejector position check, extractor operation check, trigger mechanism function checks, and oversize and undersize magazine-well checks to name a few.

Custom Configurations

With the standard model of the BW-5 having a metal lower and the FS model having a polymer lower, there are two common questions that customers ask. First, “Why are there two types of lowers?” and “May I get a (metal/polymer) lower on my (standard/FS) model?” To answer the first questions, Bobcat Weapons replies that it was important to keep the look of the HK94, while also keeping the price within a reasonable range for the customer. The metal lower is an HK SEF lower that has been modified to fit the semi automatic receiver. On the SEF lower the letter “E” and “E” detents are filled in with metal so that the lower does not attract attention marked “SEF”. The all-polymer lower is a clone of the MP5 “Navy” lower, again marked to only show semi and safe configuration. It is a more modern look than the original metal “SEF” lower and offers better durability and corrosion resistance. While the selector lever axles are of different lengths to compensate for the thicker plastic of the Navy lower, there are no internal differences in the trigger packs.

To answer the second question, while the majority of the rifles shipped out of Bobcat Weapons are in either the Standard or FS configuration, the company does accept custom orders and performs “cross model” modifications for their customers. On the lowers, for instance, for a small additional charge, Bobcat Weapons will upgrade a metal lower on the BW-5 standard model to a “Navy” polymer lower. Likewise a customer purchasing the FS model can elect to have a metal lower installed in lieu of the polymer lower.

Often, modifications a customer may request are not a simple parts swap and require gunsmith modifications, with the costs commensurate with the change. For example, an individual may want a BW-5 standard model with the paddle magazine release installed. Installation would involve drilling the receiver, disassembly and reassembly, welding the pin, dressing the weld, removing the paint from the entire receiver with an abrasive media blast, re-painting and final fitting to ensure proper function. Bobcat Weapons will then re-test, quality check and package and ship the rifle. If a customer chooses this path, Bobcat Weapons will warranty these modifications because they are done by their own gunsmith. Individuals desiring such custom work should contact Bobcat Weapons directly and they will receive a price quote for the work along with an indication of the time required for the modification. Most modifications take no more than four weeks, usually less.

Accessories

Accessories that will fit on an HK94 or MP5 will fit on the BW-5. That includes the old and new style HK A3 collapsible stocks, the new HK side-folding stocks, the new B&T side-folding stocks (similar to the stock on the HK UMP series submachine guns), Surefire forehand grips, claw mounts and slings, to name a few of the more common after-market accessories. The author has personally tried no fewer than 3 different types of HK and B&T stocks on the BW-5 and found that they all fit. One items of note is that the fit was very tight at first, but after installing and removing the stocks a few times, they installed much easier.

The BW-5 will accept HK straight magazines; HK curved magazines and Beta C drum magazines. Although Bobcat Weapons does not warrant that the BW-5 will work with after-market MP5-type magazines, I have personally tried several of the “clone” HK-type 32 round magazines (referred to as “Asian military contract”) that are readily available through mail-order sources, with good results. The rifle comes with one 10 round magazine. Additional magazines can be ordered from Bobcat Weapons.

Class 3 Possibilities with the BW-5 FS

The BW-5 FS is designed for those individuals that want to own a registered SBR (short barreled rifle) or have the flexibility in the future to make an SBR. A purchaser can file BATF Form-1 “Application to Make and Register a Firearm” with BATF. Once the approved form is received from BATF, contact Bobcat Weapons, Inc. and they will send you removal guidelines for the fake suppressor. The true MP5-style 9-inch, 3-lug barrel is hidden under the fake suppressor. Upon removal, the customer will have to dress the end of the barrel, re-paint it and inscribe their name as the manufacturer of the SBR. There will also be a small 0.125-inch diameter by 0.100-inch deep pinhole in the lower right lug. If desired, it can be filled in before dressing the end of the barrel.

Like the original HK94, the BW-5 rifles come with a semi-auto bolt carrier. However, the bolt carrier can be upgraded to full-auto configuration through the company, complete with the correct features and tungsten powder fill, for an additional $135. The tungsten powder fill is not absolutely required for full-auto function, but it is true to the HK bolt carrier design and makes for more reliable full-auto performance.

Customers who own a registered auto-sear will need a sear-ready trigger pack, a grip frame that is modified to fit the HK94 style hanger block and the full-auto bolt carrier to make the BW-5 full auto capable.

Ammunition Preference

The BW-5, like the MP5 and HK94, needs to be dialed in to ammunition of different impulse ranges. The locking piece contours determine how much of the recoil energy is allocated for extraction and resetting the hammer and how much is put into the receiver. Winchester 115-grain, Wolf 115-grain, Sellier and Bellot 115-grain, and Federal American Eagle 115-grain are ammunitions that are recommend by the factory for use in the BW-5 with the stock locking piece. Bobcat Weapons does not recommend that low-impulse ammunition, like Remington UMC 115-grain, be used in the BW-5. Factory testing has determined that it will not extract reliably with the stock locking piece. However, the use of an “SD” locking piece will improve extraction reliability since it allocates more of the recoil energy to extraction and hammer reset and puts less of the recoil energy into the receiver. The SD locking piece was originally designed by HK for the MP5SD, which uses subsonic 147-grain ammunition, that is compatible with the weapons integral suppressor. The “SD” locking piece is available for $75.00 from Bobcat Weapons with the purchase of one of the company’s rifles. Bobcat Weapons has performed ammunition tests using different locking pieces and their results are posted on the company’s website.

Bobcat Weapons test their rifles for accuracy. In general, the BW-5 FS is as accurate as the Standard model. At a local outdoor range, with Wolf 115-grain ammunition, steel sights and sandbags, the rifles had groups of less than 2 inches at 50 yards and less than 1 inch at 25 yards.

Lifetime Warranty

All Bobcat Weapons rifles are covered by a lifetime warranty. Except for normal wear and tear, abuse or miss-use, Bobcat Weapons will repair your rifle free of charge under the warranty. One of the best features of the warranty is that it can be transferred to a new owner. There is no limitation on the number of transfers, just that the new owner is registered with Bobcat Weapons. Dealers need to pay attention to the warranty card as it requires that the purchaser initial that he has received training in the proper operation of the rifle, field stripping instructions, a safety brief, and has received a copy of the manual. A properly signed Warranty Form is then faxed or mailed (Bobcat Weapons provides an addressed and stamped envelope with the rifle for this purpose) back to the company to activate the lifetime warranty. The Warranty requires registration within 10 days of purchase.

The Future

Bobcat Weapons Inc. will continue to improve and upgrade the BW-5 rifles as well as introduce new rifles. The first new rifle will be an H&K MP5-40 and MP5-10 clone, to be known as the BW5-40 and the BW5-10 SA sporting rifles with first shipments forecast for February 2005. There will be a limited number of rifles produced with a retail estimated at under $2,000. The rifles will be true to the original HK models, including last round hold open devices and ambidextrous lowers. A .357 Sig and .45 caliber rifle will be introduced after the .40 cal. and 10mm models. If/when the 1994 Assault Weapons Ban lapses in mid-September 2004, all rifles will include a 30 round magazine. Additional magazines will be readily available for a reasonable price.

In the spring of 2005, Bobcat Weapons Inc. plans to introduce the fully dressed, semi-automatic version of the HK MSG90 sniper rifle. A few of the features of this rifle will include the correct MSG90 bolt head and extractor, a Douglas XXX air gauged barrel, the correct MSG90 scope mounts, the latest H&K design 1,200 meter sights (wheel adjust), forward assist, Navy style grip with ambidextrous selector, a tuned trigger, an MSG90 trunion and a PSG1 handguard.

There have been a number of inquires from customers and dealers about Bobcat Weapons producing a PDW model. At this time they do not plan to introduce a PDW because they feel that the relatively low demand will make the venture uneconomical. However, if the 1994 Assault Weapons Ban lapses in September, Bobcat Weapons will offer a clone of the SP89 pistol, to be called the BW5k.

Conclusion

The Bobcat Weapons, Inc. BW-5 Standard and BW-5 FS model rifles are high quality clones of the HK94 semi automatic rifle at a substantially reduced cost. Prospective customers will find that Andy Bonas, and his staff, are customer service driven and strive to produce a quality product at a reasonable price. Custom options and the Class 3 friendly nature of the BW-5 will ensure that rifle will be a favorite among SAR readers.

They may be contacted at: Bobcat Weapons Inc., Dept. SAR, P.O. Box 21017, Mesa, AZ 85277. Phone (480)-832-0844. Their website address is www.bobcatweapons.comBobcat

Weapons BW-5 and BW-5 FS Specifications

Caliber: 9x19mm Parabellum
Operation: Delayed blowback operated, roller lock bolt system, firing from a closed bolt
Weight, empty: 6.4 pounds (2.9 kg) without magazine
Length, overall: 34.5 inches (876 mm)
Width: 1.96 inches (50 mm)
Height: 8.26 inches (210 mm)
Barrel: Stainless steel, billet machined with a fluted chamber. Rate of twist is 1:10
Barrel length: Standard model is 16.5 inches (419mm), FS model is 8.875 inches (225mm) with a 3-lug attachment under a pinned on fake suppressor
Magazine: Ships with one 10-round magazine. Will accept standard HK-type 30 round magazines
Sights: Front – fixed post in ring,
Rear – rotating drum, 3 aperture and open “V” sight
Sight Radius: 13.39 inches (340 mm)
Finish: Black epoxy coat is standard (optional: OD green, desert tan, camouflage)
Grip Panels: Standard model has black polymer pistol grip on a metal lower. FS model grip is molded into a synthetic black pictogram lower. (Optional colors: OD green, desert tan)
Status: Current Production
Manufacturer: Bobcat Weapons, PO Box 21017, Mesa, AZ 85277, (480)-832-0844, www.bobcatweapons.com
Price: Standard model – $1,350, FS model – $1,625.
T&E Summary: Flawless function. Fit, finish and function are similar to the HK 94. The BW-5 accepted HK straight, curved and HK-clone curved magazines with no failure to feed. Accuracy for the Standard and FS models were similar, with 2 inch groups possible at 50 yards and groups of 1 inch or less possible at 25 yards.

By Robert Bruce

While the Army and Marines have aircraft of their own to provide tactical airlift, close air support and movement of supplies, the USAF does the heavy lifting that makes large-scale joint operations so successful.

From secure bases halfway around the world, to forward-deployed airstrips close to ongoing ground combat in Iraq and Afghanistan, America’s Air Force is heavily committed to the War on Terror. Major components of this include strategic airlift of personnel, equipment and supplies, manned and unmanned reconnaissance, and “fast movers” that are on call by ground units to bomb and strafe as dictated by the immediate threat.

Most of the aircraft currently performing these diverse missions are well known veterans from the last two decades. The A-10 Warthog is still going strong, as are F15 fighters, B52 bombers, and C130 transports. These are joined in the skies over Central Command’s large area of operations by a catalog of others from tiny remote control spy ships to giant C5 cargo haulers.

A useful generality holds that the closer bases are to the combat zone, the more vulnerable they are to enemy action. Protection of these forward landholds is the job of USAF Expeditionary Security Forces, in many ways resembling a cross between mechanized infantry and urban SWAT teams.

These dedicated and well-armed men and women set up and enforce defensive perimeters intended to keep enemy intruders out so that the masses of technicians and other support personnel can safely go about their necessary duties. Inside the wire, they enforce access restrictions to sensitive areas and stay constantly on the alert for any indication of sabotage.

Since mortar rounds and rockets are not deterred by razor wire and electronic intrusion detectors, frequent patrols are also required far outside the relative safety of the base perimeter. Armored HMMWVs topped with machine guns are the vehicle of choice for these forays.

The Special Forces who man them are – in customary Air Force fashion – particularly well supplied with rifle-bullet-stopping body armor. Individual weapons include M16A2 rifles and M4 carbines that are often equipped with 40mm M203 grenade launchers, M249 Squad Automatic Weapons, and sniper rifles in 7.62mm and larger caliber.

Three other groups of Airmen are also of note for regularly being in the thick of things in ground combat. Pararescuemen ride Minigun-armed Blackhawk helicopters to retrieve downed pilots from hostile territory. Combat Controllers and Forward Air Controllers work elbow-to-elbow in the dirt with their Army and Marine comrades to ensure effective air/ground support.

More information on the US Air Force’s contributions can be found at www.af.mil

By Philip H. Dater, MD

For those who love mountains, Switzerland is a paradise. The Swiss Alps are world renowned for rock climbing, mountain climbing, and skiing. Nestled in the heart of the Bernese Oberland Alps is the town of Thun. Located midway between Bern and Interlaken, Thun is at the headwaters of the lake called Thuner See. The area, particularly Interlaken, is a prime location for mountaineering and is close to a number of well-known mountains, including the Eiger and Jungfrau.

Arriving in Zurich on our way to Serbia at the end of October, Dan Shea and I rented a car and headed southeast about 160km to Thun to visit Karl Brügger and Henri Thomet, tour their facilities, and make sound measurements of several of their suppressors. Switzerland is famous for its autobahn superhighways, and the Swiss Route 1 to Bern (and Route 6 to Thun) equaled any interstate highway in the United States. The degree of non-compliance with posted speed limits exceeds that of the US. We tried not to obstruct traffic while we navigated with maps and road signs in a foreign language and successfully made it to Hotel Freienhof with no accidents or significant wrong turns.

Thun is the prototypical Swiss town with the hillsides dotted with castles and quaint houses that look like the set of Heidi, the movie version of the classic novel of a young Swiss girl. The town itself is a mixture of old and new architecture maintained for the most part in a traditional style. While built to accommodate the automobile, the streets remain somewhat narrow and are filled with delightful little shops and warm, helpful inhabitants.

We had a little more difficulty finding B&T in spite of a map of Thun faxed to us at the hotel. We made every possible wrong turn, and the simple three-kilometer drive took us over two hours and seventy kilometers of outstandingly beautiful Swiss countryside. Speaking no German and limited French, getting directions in some of the tiny villages where English was unknown challenged our ability to use hand signals, sketches, and a lot of laughter. The residents were more than patient and helpful. Next time we bring the GPS loaded with local maps. A little late, we joined Karl and Henri for lunch at a local restaurant. Their English was flawless and the hospitality outstanding.

Thun is home to Brügger & Thomet, AG. Although in the United States the company is known primarily as a supplier of sound suppressors endorsed by Heckler & Koch for law enforcement use only, B&T is a major player in the international arms market manufacturing and dealing in not only suppressors, but also weapons and accessories.

Brügger & Thomet was founded in May of 1992 by the collaboration of Karl Brügger and Henrich Thomet. Thomet started in the family agriculture business outside Bern and soon found he had a flair for marketing and a serious interest in firearms. He quickly branched into commercial sales and became a principal in Commando Arms, where he developed experience in and a love for international arms trading. Commando Arms imported large quantities of silencers and HK MP5 submachine guns converted to semi-automatic fire for sale to the Swiss civilian market. Changes in Swiss law around 1991-1992 made it impossible for Commando Arms to hold these weapons for retail sale, and the company faded into obscurity.

Karl Brügger attended an engineering school for design and manufacturing. This is the equivalent of a United States vocational-technical school with an apprenticeship. There, he refined his love of mechanical design. An early postgraduate job was testing gunpowder manufactured by a Swiss military contractor, and he began experimenting with methods of reducing the sound levels of the test weapons to more tolerable levels. For this, he drew on a Swiss baffle design developed in 1972 for 12.7mm caliber weapons. With an associate, he founded a company that precision manufactured medical prostheses built from surgical steels.

The two men met in 1989 through their common interest in shooting and the shooting sports, and their friendship developed into a business arrangement with the formation of Brügger & Thomet, AG in 1992. While Thomet brought to the company marketing experience and skills, Brügger brought engineering and manufacturing experience gained from the manufacture of medical implants and from his previous design experience for the 12.7mm test weapon. Together, Brügger & Thomet began the manufacture of silencers for the Swiss private market. They experimented with a variety of baffle designs based primarily on variations of gas shearing and settled principally on an improvement on the Swiss design from two decades earlier. They subsequently obtained the necessary licenses for the manufacture of complete weapons.

In the mid 1990s, B&T started purchasing unfinished MP5 receivers from MKE of Turkey (the HK licensee) and used their manufacturing facilities to complete these into a Swiss semi-auto version of the MP5 that would meet the requirements of Swiss regulations. They also converted the MP5 into the MP5-SD version, which undoubtedly sold well as the only other source of this weapon was HK Oberndorf. Swiss law dramatically simplified the export process, providing a brisk export business and contributing to the growth of the company. Even today, under Swiss laws the exportation of silencers and machine guns is not difficult, unlike the US Department of State’s draconian attitudes.

There are currently three major divisions of Brügger & Thomet: Representing, Trading, and Manufacturing. The Representing Division functions as a manufacturer’s representative as well as a wholesaler. B&T are representatives for Heckler & Koch, Aimpoint, Simunition, and ASP.

The business relationship with HK (Oberndorf) started when B&T became the manufacturer’s representative for HK in Switzerland. Swiss military and law enforcement sales were dominated by SIG, a native Swiss company. Through sheer marketing genius, B&T managed to obtain a large contract for HK handguns with the Swiss police, a true coup edging out the local manufacturer. B&T built a lot of goodwill for HK through willingness to provide simple repairs and exceptional customer service at little or no cost to the end user. Brügger & Thomet is one of Heckler & Koch’s largest agents in Europe, and HK is B&T’s largest OEM customer for suppressors. The relationship between HK and B&T blossomed and provided the necessary testing for B&T compatibility with HK weapons. HK currently endorses and sells in the non-US market the B&T suppressors for their entire line of firearms, including the MK-23, USP, MP5, and UMP weapons.

The Trading division’s function is primarily assembling and marketing weapon packages outside of Switzerland. This would include assembling a package of not only the desired weapons, but also all desired or necessary accessories (optical sights, suppressors, rail interfaces, grenade launchers, etc.). The customers are either government agencies or private companies doing business on behalf of a government with government contracts. The products packaged include items other than those manufactured by B&T, depending on the customer’s requirements.

Manufacturing is the area where Brügger & Thomet has built its reputation. Although known in the United States for their suppressors, Brügger & Thomet also manufacture an extensive line of accessories. Their optical mounts for the MP5, HK33, and similar weapons are well known and have been copied without license in the United States. The rail system for attaching accessories to numerous weapons has become the standard of law enforcement and is currently in demand in the civilian market. B&T manufactures a wide variety of rail systems for the HK, Colt, SIG, and other weapons, often in conjunction with the manufacturer of the underlying weapon.

Their original product, firearm sound suppressors (silencers) remain a significant part of their manufactured product line. Heckler & Koch endorses the B&T silencers worldwide, including in the United States. Due to restrictive US laws, importation of B&T suppressors into the United States is difficult and available only for the benefit of government agencies. Similar restrictive State Department regulations make the exportation of USA made silencers essentially impossible, providing an open worldwide market for European silencers.

In 2001, Brügger & Thomet purchased the rights, drawings, patents, spare parts, and tooling from Steyr to manufacture the TMP machine pistol. Currently, they are manufacturing a modified (and improved) design, the MP-9, in 9mm as specified by the customer. Although there has been some consideration of a version in 4.6x30mm, there is little user demand for that cartridge (nor for 5.7x28mm) at this point in time. Part of the reason for the caliber choice is user familiarity and the easy availability of the ubiquitous NATO standard pistol/submachine gun ammo. Karl Brügger has spent over three years improving and extensively testing the MP-9. This has resulted in a weapon that functions flawlessly on all available 9mm ammunition (including training Simunition) and functions equally reliably with or without their matching silencer. The MP-9 makes extensive use of polymers and is more compact than the new HK MP7. Unlike almost all 9mm submachine guns, the MP-9 uses a locked breech mechanism rather than utilizing simple blowback as is used in the current HK UMP. This permits a reliable, compact submachine gun. Additionally, as lightweight as it is, the folding stock is amazingly rigid.

Located in an industrial complex, Brügger & Thomet’s facility is moderately large, currently at around 1,400 square meters (15,000 sq ft). They are in the process of adding another building, which will add an additional 3,450 square meters (37,000 sq ft) and anticipate having the new facility operational in late 2005. All tooling is state-of-the-art CNC equipment, including Swiss turning centers as well as more conventional CNC turning and milling centers. Their manufacturing is primarily firearm related, although they have one milling center producing medical prostheses. With the exception of casting, all manufacturing is done in house at the Thun facility. The B&T reference collection is kept at an off-site location and, in addition to a wide variety of weapons, features many HK prototypes and low serial numbered production weapons.

Although some B&T suppressors still use thread mounting, the company has focused on the quick detach (QD) or no-tools mount. The Impuls-II series of suppressors for the HK USP handguns remains thread mounted. On our visit, we saw their QD mount on their Rotex-2 5.56mm rifle suppressor. Simply, the mount consists of an eccentric collar on a sleeve that accepts the flash hider. A simple half turn of this collar simultaneously positions a shoulder engaging the back of the flash hider and tightens this shoulder into the stop at the front of the flash hider. Development of this mount dates back to 2000, and Thomet informed me that a US patent has been applied for on this mount. A new West Coast US suppressor manufacturer is utilizing the major locking features of this mount, claiming it as their own design. The B&T quick detach mount for the MP5 3-lug barrel is similar to the Latka QD mount (push and twist with stops to prevent over-rotation) used in the US with the added feature of being able to be tightened down similar to the Bixler mount. For the HK MP-7, the B&T mount was similar to the KAC 5.56mm mount (with the locking pins engaging the flash hider wrench flats) but with the added feature of being able to be tightened down to jam the retaining pins in the flats. In 2004, B&T changed the MP7 suppressor mount to one utilizing the Rotex-2 mount design.

The next day, after touring the facilities, we went to the range for some product testing. It is important to know that it never snows here before late November. “Never,” except in late October of 2003. The night before we went product testing, the gods defied global warming and dumped 6 inches of beautiful new snow on the ground, transforming the region into a winter wonderland. This did interesting things to the narrow dirt mountain road to the open range we were planning to use. The road turned out to be impassable to even 4-wheel drive vehicles and, with an embankment on one side and a sheer drop on the other, too narrow to turn around conventionally. Fortunately, it was so slick with fresh snow that Swiss ingenuity permitted four men to literally push the car around and head it back down hill.

There was another range available. Although not as large and not as wide, it was easier to get to, adequate, and had a small clubhouse where we could have some hot coffee and warm up from the bitter cold. While some other shooters were completing their target practice, we had the opportunity to visit with others. Shooters and gun enthusiasts are the same world-wide, and we made a number of new friends. Some had home-made suppressors, and we were more than willing to provide them with accurate sound data. We set up the Larson-Davis 800B sound meter and laptop to record the results, and calibrated the meter. Although we had to improvise a little for a microphone stand, we set up and were able to measure in compliance with MIL-STD-1474D. “A” weighting was used, because that is the protocol specified by MIL-STD-1474D. It is worth noting that unweighted would be more accurate, but that is not the current military standard and “A” weighting (which more closely matches the response of the human ear) is what virtually all manufacturers use in both the USA and Europe. There is no need to rehash the protocol, which was adequately described in the August 2000 issue of Small Arms Review.

It was cold, being -7 degrees C (20 F), but it was a sunny day with no wind and relatively low humidity. Our protocol was for using nine different weapon platforms for sound level testing of sixteen suppressors. A number of the suppressors were experimental or prototypes that we were measuring for B&T internal information. Of primary interest to us were the commercially available suppressors, and not all possible units were available for testing.

In 5.56mm NATO, we tested two suppressors on a standard M4 carbine using SS-109 ammunition. The non-suppressed sound level was 164.4 dB. The first was the B&T 556-URS. This suppressor was a slightly older and larger design (40mm diameter, 250mm length – approximately 1.6 by 10 inches), but one in current production. It measured 131.6 dB for a reduction of 32.8 dB. There was a moderate first round “pop” (amount first round is louder than the average of the subsequent 9 rounds) and had a standard deviation of 1.95. The newer Rotex-2 suppressor (titanium, 38mm diameter, 207mm long, weighing 480gm – approximately 1.5 by 8.2 inches, 16 ounces) is smaller and lighter and delivered 135.6 dB average for a reduction of 28.8 dB with a negligible first round pop and a standard deviation of 0.90.

There is a lot of current curiosity about the HK MP7. In caliber 4.6x30mm, both standard ball and subsonic loadings are available. We did not have a chronograph available, but we did sound measurements with both ammunition types with and without the B&T MP7 suppressor. The suppressor measured 40 x 222mm and weighed 550 grams. The non-suppressed levels were 160.9 dB (ball) and 157.9 dB (subsonic). The suppressor reduced the sound to 135.6 dB (with ball ammunition for a reduction of 25.3 dB, first round pop of 6.9 dB and a standard deviation of 2.33). With subsonic ammunition, the suppressed level was 131.1 dB (26.8 dB reduction, insignificant first round pop, and a standard deviation of 0.90).

For the MP5 submachine gun, B&T manufactures two basic suppressors. One is a replacement suppressor for the MP5-SD. Although comparable in size, the B&T suppressor module reduces the sound level with 115 grain ball ammunition by over 29 dB, which is 4 dB more efficient than the HK factory suppressor. Their other MP5 suppressor, which is more comparable to US designs in that it is a quick-detach unit, is designated the model QD-MP5. Using Fiochi ball ammunition loaded with 158 grain projectiles, the sound was reduced from 154.4 dB to 122.3 dB for a net reduction of 32.1 dB with a moderate first round pop of slightly over 7 dB. The quick detach mount is unique in that it combines the best features of the Latka and Bixler mounts, uses a push and twist action, and is rock solid when mounted.

The Impuls-II series suppressor is built in both 9mm and .45 caliber for Heckler & Koch USP series handguns. These suppressors simply screw onto the factory threaded barrels and employ a built-in recoil booster somewhat similar to the Nielsen device developed in the 1980s at Qual-A-Tec. We tested the Impuls-IIA in 9mm on the HK USP-9 9mm pistol using the Fiochi 158 grain ball ammunition. Dry, the suppressor reduced the sound level by 30 dB from 159.3 to 129.3 dB with a 6.3 dB first round pop. We also tested a slightly more compact version designated the Impuls-IIA (NAVY), which was designed to be shot wet. Although the NAVY version with a little water had essentially no first round pop, it was comparable to the standard version.

It is difficult to compare European design suppressors with those from the United States, primarily because of differences in ammunition and testing conditions. Ideally, for comparison one should test both designs side-by-side. There are definite day-to-day variations in measurements, best categorized as differences in acoustic impedance of the air (the ability of the air to transmit sound). This is a complex relationship and the best comparison is to consider the transmission differences of sound in dry air and in a fog. Current US laws and State Department Regulations make an accurate comparison difficult. Comparison is further complicated by differences in materials, suppressor sizes due to common inch or metric tubing, and ammunition. While weapons and ammunition can often be standardized, not all ammunition is readily available in the different locations. Overall, my impression is that the B&T suppressors, while minimally larger, are close to the US designs in performance with highly innovative quick detach mounting systems. While their suppressor designs are different, they are highly effective.

Brügger & Thomet is a diverse manufacturing and marketing company manufacturing submachine guns, suppressors, and accessories. Their products are well designed and built with typical Swiss precision. While not as large as some of the US suppressor manufacturers, Brügger & Thomet ranks with the larger European manufacturers.

After thanking Karl and Henri for their hospitality and bidding farewell to some of our newfound friends, Dan and I headed back to Zurich for our flight to Serbia and Zastava Arms in Kragujevac. We vowed to bring our wives back to the Thun area to vacation in one of the most beautiful places in the world.

By Junshi Bowuguan

The history of China spans some four thousand years. As might be expected, China has a rich military history that covers internal revolts, external aggression and civil war. The last one hundred years or so have been particularly violent. The first Sino-Japanese War began in 1894. In 1911, a revolution overthrew the emperor and led to decades of war between various warlords. The second Sino-Japanese War began in 1931 with the Mukden Incident and is considered by many to be the actual start of World War Two. The defeat of the Japanese by the Allies led to civil war in China between the Nationalists and the Communists. This lasted from 1945 until the Nationalists were forced to flee to Taiwan in 1949.

The years since the founding of the People’s Republic in 1949 have brought internal peace to China. In 1960, the Military Museum of the People’s Revolution was opened in Beijing. This museum is housed in a large multi-floor building with over 650,000 square feet of floor space.

While in China recently on vacation, I decided to visit the museum. It is a main tourist attraction and, with its own subway stop, is easy to get to in the western part of Beijing. When I came up above ground, I was directly across the street from the museum. A ticket office is to the right and after paying the five-yuan (approximately $.60) fee, I entered the courtyard in front of the building.

In addition to providing copious space for tour bus parking, the courtyard also contains a number of exhibits that included a small jet plane, a patrol boat, a ballistic missile and two dozen or so cannons. The newer items all appear to be of Soviet design, something that might be expected considering their long Communist association.

Upon entering the building, which is also used for other non-military exhibits, I was confronted by a fifteen-foot tall statue of Chairman Mao. Though not seen in many other places in China, he is very much in evidence in the military museum. Passing around Mao, one of the first exhibits I came to was a rare Japanese Type 97 medium tank. Considering the contentious history between China and Japan, it is obvious why many of the exhibits concern Japan.

The main Hall of Weapons contains all the large displays. These include a wide variety of fairly modern Chinese military equipment including artillery, tanks, aircraft and, more recently, missiles. The periphery of this hall includes displays of mortars (up to 160mm) as well as some rarely encountered 20mm infantry cannon such as the Japanese Type 97, the Breda and the Madsen.

On either side of the main hall there are covered courtyards containing other displays. One contains over one hundred artillery pieces, ranging from pre-World War One types to Korean War vintage pieces. The other courtyard mainly contains what appear to be artifacts of the 1945-1949 Civil War. These include American armor and aircraft supplied to the Nationalists. There is also the remains of an American U-2 spy plane that either crashed or was shot down.

Above the main hall is a gallery that runs along three sides. This is the main area of our interest here as it is where the small arms are displayed. The displays are professionally done, although the glass display cases do not lend themselves to good photography. There are signs in English on the cases, although they are so rudimentary as to be of little help, i.e., “Pistols”, “Rifles”, etc. More extensive identification signs are in Chinese but provide no help unless you are traveling with a guide.

Although Chinese military history literally spans thousands of years, there are few weapons on display older than a Chinese copy of a Remington rolling block rifle dating from the last quarter of the 19th century. It is not hard to assume that the nature of the 20th century wars in China did not leave much in the way of remains. Nonetheless, the small arms displays are extensive. The first display I encountered was of Japanese samurai swords, quickly followed by a display of rocket-propelled grenades, many of them cut-away.

The Chinese rifle display includes a number of Japanese rifles. There is a Federov Avtomat, undoubtedly a gift from the Soviets. Then there are the Mausers. The Chinese obviously liked Mausers as they used and manufactured their own beginning with the Model 1888. They built millions of them in a number of arsenals and numerous variations are on display.

Not only did the Chinese like Mauser rifles, they also loved broomhandle Mauser pistols. A separate display includes dozens of them. Other pistols on display include a rare .32 ACP 16-shot Spanish pistol with tangent sight and fitted for shoulder stock.

There are several displays which include nearly all the small arms carried by the Allied and Axis forces in World War Two. There is a separate Thompson display showing many different models. Another display covers German assault rifles. There is a separate display of weapons, mainly American, that were used in Vietnam.

By far the largest part of the small arms exhibit covers light, medium and heavy machine guns. They range from Chinese copies of Russian Maxims to the native Chinese Type 77 12.7mm machine gun. This, incidentally, was the latest model of any of the weapons I saw on display.

There is an extensive display of large caliber anti-aircraft machine guns and an adjoining display of medium machine guns on tripods. There was also a display of Japanese large caliber machine guns, 20mm and above, that were based on the Browning system. Something which the American ordnance authorities apparently claimed could not be done but which the Japanese had no trouble doing.

In one case I found a Finnish M1931 submachine gun with four-column magazine designed by Aimos Lahti. Another case contained one of his LS-26 light machine guns. I would have never known how it got there except for the fact that I had read about it in the November 1998 issue of Small Arms Review and knew that the Chinese had purchased twelve hundred of them in 8mm Mauser caliber in 1937. Considering that the warlords in the 1920s bought whatever they could find on the international arms market, there seems to be at least one example here on display.

As I made my way around the gallery, I finally came to a hall of statuary. Besides Mao Tse-tung and Zhou En-lai, I doubt if any westerner would recognize any of the other statues.

Going down the stairs back into the main hall, I found a small stand selling souvenirs and books. None of the books were in English and the ones in Chinese did not offer anything of interest.

The museum is open daily from 8.a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Be warned that the museum can be very crowded on weekends, as this is when the local citizens visit this popular attraction.

By James L. Ballou

The mechanized bandits of the 1930’s had a great affect upon police weapons of that era. Even rural police departments felt they had to have a Colt Thompson on hand “just in case” Dillinger or Pretty Boy Floyd came to town. Small towns, such as Lower Gwynedd Township police department in Pennsylvania, purchased a 1921/8 Colt overstamp complete with case and accessories (No. 9507). They just had to have a cased Colt “Chopper”. By then, the prestigious Federal Bureau of Investigation had acquired several hundred Thompsons. Mr. Hoover, in fact, sent a new Thompson, complete with ammunition, to his prized agent, Melvin Purvis. Some Special Agents purchased them with their own funds.

Most of the Colt Thompsons in the New England area were Colt 1921/8 overstamped Navy’s. This was the result of a zealous salesman who plied the roads of the East Coast with only Navy overstamps as samples.

While Thompsons were popular with police departments, they were somewhat ineffective against car bodies of that era. Upon studying the cars of the 30’s, one can understand why the Thompson in .45 ACP was not reliable in penetrating them. There are numerous tales of ACP FMJ’s glancing off the tough old Model A’s. The fender of the car was as thick as a WWII GI “pot” helmet. It became apparent to anyone who had exchanged fire with the “motorized bandits” that a weapon with greater penetrating power was needed.

In 1931, Colt introduced a BAR specifically geared for the law enforcement community. It was a commercial Browning Automatic Rifle with a pistol grip, shortened barrel and an elaborate compensator. The first two were shipped to Charlestown Prison (later to become Bunker Hill Community College) in Boston, MA on March 25, 1931. (Serial No’s C-102792, C-102793). The official factory designation was R-80 and commonly known as the “Monitor”.

The FBI purchased approximately 90 Monitors and put them on display in a series of propaganda films depicting Mr. Hoover overseeing some of his agents firing (with tracer) at cars. The Monitor did its job well and soon the cars were chopped to pieces by the armor piercing .30-06. This was Mr. Hoover’s weapon of mass destruction as it put his men on equal footing with the likes of Bonnie and Clyde. The Monitor was the first official “Fighting Rifle” of the FBI.

In the capture and shooting of Bonnie and Clyde, along with a multitude of weapons, BAR’s and one Monitor were used. The Barrow’s gang had two BAR’s, dozens of Colt 1911s, and a variety of other lethal weapons. Captain Frank Hamer of the Texas Rangers had the Monitor (serial number C-103168) that was allegedly presented to him by the Colt Company. The gang never had a chance to use their weapons because they were “cut down” before they could react.

Description of the Monitor

The basic receiver is identical to the Model 1918 BAR and Colt Commercial 1919 BAR. There the similarity ends. The stocks, barrel, sights, and compensator were unique to the R-80/Monitor. The barrel, along with its gas tube and operating rod is unlike the Model 1919. They are specific to the Monitor being much shorter to accommodate the 18-inch tube.

The Cutts compensator is unlike any other made. John Appleton, a noted archivist, speculated that Lyman designed it especially for the FBI. However, no documentation could be found to support this. Mr. Appleton has done extensive research on the Cutts Compensator and stated that in the 1920s R.M. Cutts, Sr. did experimental work for the United States Navy on the West Coast. He further states that Cutts had fitted his compensator to every weapon in the Navy inventory including the Benet-Mercie and the Stokes Mortar. The latter must have been one humongous attachment. The foregrip is fabricated from an R-75 grip but the grooves for a bipod have been filled in with a walnut insert. The buttstock is cut differently from the 1918 BAR. The pistol grip on the stock has been eliminated, as it is actually part of the trigger housing.

Firing Test

This grand experience took place at Knob Creek on Friday, April 12, 1996. This author was able to put 300 rounds through a pristine Monitor (serial number C-102823) owned by John Scott of Clinton, Indiana. The balance of the rifle was superb which contributed to its remarkable controllability. The cyclic rate was approximately 550 rounds per minute. No stoppages occurred and the firing was an unforgettable experience. The Lyman compensator provided the only negative. Although the gun did not climb one iota, bits of unburned powder were felt on my face and some bystanders complained about the unpleasant blast from both sides of the muzzle. Nevertheless, it performed like a rifle, well balanced and light to handle.

The Odyssey of a Monitor

The Monitors sent to Charlestown Prison served as a formidable deterrent to would be troublesome prisoners until the closing of the facility. The rifles then disappeared. Unbeknownst at the time, some of the guards actually had taken them home. One day Lt. Carl M. Majeskey of the Massachusetts State Police was working in the Firearms Identification Lab in Boston. Detective Paul Cloren of the Cambridge Police Department presented Carl a rather rare weapon for the State Police reference collection. It was one of the Monitors. Apparently, Det. Cloren was one of the prison guards who had taken the Monitor home in the 60’s.

The story of the Monitor has taken on a certain mystery. Exactly whom was this developed for, who used it and where did they all go? Other proposed users for the Monitor, according to Tom Swearengen, were the US Marine Corps, First Parachute Division, the First Ranger Battalion and bank and prison guards. Information has recently been received stating that the Argentine Army had some Monitors chambered in 7.65mm.