New .22 LR AR-15/M16 Conversion

MKS Distributing, distributor for Chiappa Firearms, debuts its M4-22 AR-15 type upper chambered in .22 LR. This high-quality and affordable Chiappa Mil-Spec M4-22 upper now makes it possible for most folks to purchase a .22 Long Rifle caliber conversion for their high-power AR platform (all models of AR-15, M16, and M4s now on the market). The Chiappa M4-22 upper features a Picatinny integral rail upper and the barrel has the same profile of the current military M4 carbine. Chiappa’s M4-22 upper is reliable, robust and installs in seconds and you’ve got yourself a mean looking .22 caliber fun gun. The new conversion has a 16 inch barrel and an overall length of 34.25 inches. This lightweight upper weighs just 3.5 pounds and is shipped with two 28-round magazines. In restricted states the upper comes with two 10-round magazines. One of the best things about the conversion upper is that it has a suggested retail price of just $349. For more information or to place an order please contact MKS, Supply, Inc., Dept. SAR, 8611-A North Dixie Drive, Dayton, OH 45414. Phone: (937) 454-0363. Fax: (937) 454-0503. On the web at www.mkschiappa.com.

Command Arms Introduces New Magazines and M4 Handguards

Command Arms Accessories (CAA)/EMA Tactical is proud to introduce their new and innovative Three Window Magazine. The three built in windows allows the operator to see how many rounds remain in the mag allowing the operator to keep track of his remaining rounds and facilitates timely magazine changes without the operator losing his sight picture. Simply glancing down at the back of the magazine from his cheek weld shows the approximate number of rounds remaining. When the magazine is full the operator will see the brass round casings in the top and middle windows. The (orange) follower will appear in the bottom window indicating a full magazine of 30 rounds. As rounds are fired, the operator glances at the middle window. When the middle window is empty only 19 rounds remain in the magazine. Then the operator glances at the top window. When the top window is empty only 11 rounds remain. This three window system shows that when the middle window is empty the operator has 2/3 or fewer of the rounds remaining and when the top window is empty only 1/3 of the rounds remain in the magazine.

Also new from Command Arms Accessories/EMA Tactical is their M4S1 M16/AR-15 Carbine Handguard System, which sets the standard for a stable and rigid design by combining interlocking top and bottom handguard sections with a bottom rail that can be mounted to the existing sling swivel mount for absolute rigidity. The M4S1 handguard will not move once locked in place providing repeatable zero. This is the first lightweight polymer handguard designed to withstand the extreme operating temperatures of a gas piston system. This extreme heat resistance is achieved by manufacturing the M4S1 from a proprietary heat resistant polymer, including a heat shield and providing significant upper and lower handguard venting in the design. The M4S1 also works with standard direct gas operating systems. The M4S1 includes two interchangeable lower rails of 4- and 1.75-inch lengths. This allows the operator to quickly change rails based on mission need. The two 1.75-inch side rails are removable if not required. Even with the side rails attached there is enough room left on the contoured handguard for your hand to hold it comfortably. An optional 9-inch long aluminum top rail attaches to the handguard and flat top rail providing a super stable platform for mounting optics and sights. The M4S1 also includes two mounting points for a push button quick detach sling swivel. For more information contact Command Arms Accessories/EMA Tactical, Dept. SAR, 1208 Branagan Drive, Tullytown, PA 19007. Phone: (215) 949-9944. Fax: (215) 949-9191. Website: www.ematactical.com.

CCI Introduces New Tactical .22 Long Rifle Load for AR Style Rifles

CCI now offers a load specifically for AR-style rifles: new .22 Long Rifle AR-Tactical. These new rounds are built to CCI’s high standards. The AR-Tactical bullets offer excellent accuracy – including 1.5 inches at 100 yards for 10-shot groups in factory testing. Testing also was conducted specifically for common law enforcement and military Smith & Wesson M&P 15/22 firearms. This testing confirmed the performance that tactical users require. A CCI case, primer and bullet lube combine with clean-burning powder to provide tactical-grade performance. The 40-grain rounds are a target bullet with a copper-plated round nose (CPRN) for smooth feeding. Tactical shooters can blast through an entire magazine without worrying of a glitch in feeding or on-target performance. A speed of 1,200 fps allows for excellent accuracy with low recoil. The AR-Tactical ammunition is available in 375-count loose packed, re-closeable boxes. For more on this new .22 LR ammunition contact ATK, Dept. SAR, 900 Bob Ehlen Drive, Anoka, MN 55303. Phone: (763) 323-2300. Fax: (763) 323-2506. One the web at www.atk.com.

Brownells Announces New AR-15/M16 “Paratrooper” Charging Handle

The Brownells Paratrooper Charging Handle for AR-15s and M16s improves the function of your favorite modern sporting rifle by providing the longest grasping surface on the market today. When you need to use it, the handle’s deeply serrated front face ensures non-slip hand contact for positive operation in all conditions. The Paratrooper is an oversized, left-side lever that folds against the receiver to present a slim, no-snag profile during carry or storage. It angles down slightly when retracted, so it won’t interfere with a scope or sight mounted on the receiver rail. The handle is 2.5 inches wide when open, and measures just under an inch wide when folded. Made in the U.S., the Paratrooper Charging Handle is machined from billet 7075 T6 aluminum – the same material as USGI receivers – for superb strength and reliability. The hardcoat-anodized finish resists corrosion and surface wear, and the matte-black finish matches most factory receiver finishes. The AR-15/M16 Paratrooper Charging Handle (#080-000-819) is drop-in ready for a Mil-Spec AR-15/M16 upper receiver. There’s no gunsmithing required. To learn more about the Paratrooper Charging Handle, you can contact them at Brownells, Dept. SAR, 200 Front Street, Montezuma, IA 501714. Phone: (641) 623-5401. Fax: (641) 623-3896. Website: www.brownells.com.

LaserLyte K-15 Kryptonyte Laser Now available in Tan

LaserLyte, the leader in laser technology for the shooting and hunting industry, is proud to introduce its popular K-15 Kryptonyte Laser in tan to match most military rifles. The cutting edge LaserLyte K-15 Kryptonyte is designed for use with the modern rifle, carbine or any weapon with three-inches of Picatinny or weaver type rail. It is constructed of aircraft grade 6061 aluminum with T3 hardness. The entire aluminum body is tan anodized with Level 2 hardness.

The concise laser engraved markings clearly display user-friendly features. The K-15 Kryptonyte is fully adjustable with hex drive screws protected by sealed turret caps. The offset design of the laser aperture allows for more flexible mounting options. The recessed activation selector can be changed to off, constant on and momentary on. The momentary on feature is used with the 10-inch long tape switch that can be mounted with provided Velcro strips. The bright green dot makes target acquisition fast and efficient. The green laser can be seen in daylight up to 100 yards. At night the laser can be seen up to a mile away. Powered by one CR-123 battery, the K-15 Kryptonyte offers 1.5 hours of continuous on. The MSRP is $249.95.

Contact them at LaserLyte,
Dept. SAR,
101 Airpark Road,
Suite C,
Cottonwood, AZ 86326.

Phone: (928) 649-3201.
Fax: (928) 649-3970.
Website: www.laserlyte.com.

By J.M. Ramos

There is an emerging class of weapon that is quickly catching on with the military and law enforcement who recognize its effectiveness as a weapon of choice in close quarter engagement. In the past, a grenade launcher was the most common attached secondary weapon to a service rifle dating back to the Vietnam days. In current conflicts, a 12 gauge pump action shotgun appears to be a more desirable combination given the close quarter type of environment and is among the latest breed of combat combos; primarily those that are to be used by sentries whose primary duties are to protect the perimeter of the base and other fortified installations. And, as a stand alone weapon, it has proven itself time and again in urban environments and other close quarter situations such as caves and tunnels.

Remington M870

Remington became solidly engage in the development and manufacture of military and police shotguns as far back as 1907 and introduced their first slide action sporting shotgun the following year called the Remington Repeating Shotgun Model 1908. A “Riot” gun version of this gun was called Model 10R. The military version of this particular model was used in the trenches during WW1 and came complete with a magazine extension, barrel shroud and a bayonet attachment. There were other similar models that superseded the Model 10 but none came close to the continued success enjoyed by the M870: a true bread and butter for the company. Introduced in the commercial market back in 1950, the popular model was designed by the company’s engineering team headed by Lexie R. Crittendon. The gun’s twin action bar was no doubt the most desirable feature of the gun and proved to be the strongest in its class. Shortly after its introduction, the M870 became available in two fighting shotgun formats: the M870R (Riot Gun) and M870P (Police Model). Both models were simply short barreled versions of the field grade sporting gun. In its early years, these models found limited success in the police and security market. However, it was in the mid 1950s that a quantity of the M870R with slings was purchased by the British Security Forces that were fighting Communist terrorists in Malaya that eventually influenced the design of future combat shotguns: slide-action and automatic alike. To date, the M870 remains as the world’s most successful pump action shotgun ever made. It is a top choice in the US military and highly revered as a defensive weapon by civilians and its field grade versions remain a top favorite among sportsmen and hunters alike. Not much has changed in the overall design of the M870. After over five decades of uninterrupted production, it has remained the king of scatterguns from which all other weapons in its class are judged. With the advent of ultra-modern tactical shotgun innovations of the new millennium, the gun’s well established form of over half a century may be about to change.

The “M412”

What makes the slide-action shotgun like the M870 an ideal combination for an M4 is its outstanding simplicity and robust overall construction. Being manually operated, its mechanics is less affected by most adverse climatic conditions, something a mechanically operated arm can be rendered unserviceable unless maintained regularly. While it is practical to keep the M870 as simple as possible to operate and maintain in the battlefield as a combination gun to a standard service rifle, it can also be upgraded to a primary weapon system for certain applications if desired.

Since the 1980s, there were few numbers of related accessories offered by independent companies for the M870: these being generally limited only to folding stock and fixed pistol grip furniture. Barrel shroud and magazine extensions are also offered but these accessories have been around since the Riot Gun versions of these guns become commercially available. The tactical gun market of the new era however has finally offered large varieties of accessories that are far more sophisticated and functional. It is particularly interesting that almost any available bolt-on device available for the AR rifle can now be fitted to the Remington shotgun with a little bit of work and imagination.

The availability of many exciting tactical accessories for the M870 revived the author’s long lost interest in this type of arm and the author’s goal was to be able to re-create the M870 to look and feel like an AR but most particularly with less felt recoil. What could be better than an M4 style M870 that feels more like a Short Barreled Rifle (SBR) than a nasty shooting 12 gauge scattergun. The possibility of creating this “M412” with trend setting hardware that can be truly appreciated by AR fans may have just become a reality.

While the market for tactical shotgun innovation has finally taken off, putting together the configuration envisioned in this project would take some imagination and figuring out what is needed and how the selected components are going to be put together to achieve the desired result without overdressing the gun or overspending unnecessarily. Bear in mind, the most expensive part is not necessarily the best. There are similar gadgetries out there that are far less expensive but do the job as well as the pricey ones. What really counts is how the components complement one another and how good they are put together. A gun project can only be considered successful if it meets the builder’s expectations and a true custom tactical arm must perform as well as it looks.

In the creating of the M412, some minor work will be required since not all parts selected are for the M870. Anyone with a little experience in gunsmithing will have no difficulty putting this specimen together. Police and military armorers can also learn from this project. Since most of these servicemen are already equipped and familiar with AR type weapons, it is much easier to train one who is already proficient with it especially with the feel and look that they are already accustomed to. Competitive shooters who favor the AR in their 3-gun matches will truly appreciate the M412 format in their quest for the top place. The M412 designation simply put a nice ring to the upgraded gun quite well. On top of the gun’s exceptional format, one can truly appreciate the added advantage of being able to incorporate almost any available device or accessory tailored for the AR to include BUIS sight, optics, varieties of stocks and forward grips, bipod, lights, lasers, etc. The sky is the limit. The arrangement is as good and as versatile as any ultra-modern tactical type AR out there. The big gun is now capable of exceptional accuracy with the aid of new generation sighting systems and handling characteristics never before experienced are achieved in this type of weapon.

Configuring the M412

The dominance of the AR rifle exterior format, primarily its straight telescoping stock design, has made tremendous impact in almost every type of popular tactical inspired long arms in the market today ranging from .22 LR to long range .50 caliber sniper weapons. This was a trend that soon expanded to accommodate police and military type shotguns to include the M870 and other popular US brands. Currently, the market has quite a few varieties of M4 style stocks marketed for the M870 as well as other US made pump action shotguns. However, it was not until the new CAA RS870 6-position collapsible stock became available that the author finally decided to undertake the project for four basic simple reasons: authenticity, quality, styling and price. Most similar stocks in the market are either too expensive, not authentic enough for a true M4 styling or simply poor quality. CAA (Command Arms Accessories) makes some of the finest accessories for the AR (and AK’s as well as other popular long and short arms) that are priced right for the average consumer. Along with the new RS870 stock, they also created the Shotgun Rail Adaptor (SGR1). This accessory is primarily designed to be mounted to the barrel as a laser/light mount. The writer sees a different use for it – a mount for an AR gas block front sight to match a flat top BUIS sight or a carry handle sight. For the carry handle sight, the CAA CH model that is used on flat top AR models fills the bill. The CH is less than half the price of most identical carry handle sights out there and is equally well made. The combination of the collapsible stock and Shotgun Rail Adaptor made it possible to create the M870 as close as possible to an M4 format sans magazine feed and self-loading operation. For a forward grip, the writer again selected a CAA product: the VG1 quick detachable combat grip. The VG1 matches the finger groove pistol grip of the RS870 stock. The combination of these ergonomically designed pistol grips is highly functional. For those “steady” shots, a bipod is simply an indispensable add-on in this tactical package. The CAA “Short Bipod” (BPOS) meets this requirement. This neat little bipod can be folded forward or rearward when not in use. When folded rearward, the pods rest snugly between the forend bottom rails yet it does not interfere when the arm is cycled manually. Complementing the compact M412 is CAA’s fully adjustable 1 inch Nylon One Point Sling, which allows easy movement of the arm when operating inside confined spaces. To accommodate the OPS sling, an end plate sling adapter (loop type) is assembled between the stock and receiver. Midwest Industries makes an excellent adapter and is available in a variety of styles.

Other accessories included in the M412 package are available from Brownell’s, Inc. These parts include the Wilson Tactical Picatinny Rail Forend. This replacement part is very well made from aluminum and features three Mil-Std 1913 Picatinny rails positioned at 3, 6 and 9 o’clock and are designed to accept forward grip, laser, light, etc. The Wilson accessory has the same length as the factory part and is securely retained on the action bar tube by the forend nut. Shooters with average or small hands may find the forend too bulky on the sides due to the over extended side rails. A simple solution to this is a forward grip such as the CAA VG1 or other similar handles that suits the operator’s preference. While it is possible to mount the bipod to the forend bottom rail, this will add more weight and bulk during operation. When the bipod is deployed, the forearm cannot be operated as usual since the gun is planted firmly to the ground. However, the author found that by holding firmly on the forward grip and pulling it downward to lock the bipod solidly to the ground, the shooter can simply move the gun back and forth with the rear grip following the movement with the shoulder resting steadily against the butt. This manual cycling action of the gun is quite comfortable and easy to get used to and quite fast. The gun is equipped with Scattergun Technologies (Wilson) one-shot extension. One special accessory found by the author in the Brownell’s catalogue to be a perfect mount for the CAA bipod is the 30mm Scope Accessory Rail made by Tactical Night Vision (TNV). This accessory simply clams to the magazine extension and can accommodate a light/laser or a bipod. In installing the CAA bipod to the TNV accessory, it is necessary to enlarge the first notch of the rail be used by using a 3/16 chainsaw file to fit the large diameter assembly screw of the bipod. (Note: do not over cut: the notch only needs minor widening. Keep the same depth.)

For a back up iron sight (BUIS), the writer selected one made by Yankee Hill Machine (YHM). These are very well made sights and priced right. Since the M870’s barrel does not rest as low on the receiver as on the AR, the YHM Forearm Flip Sight is the most compatible to the normal height of the Flat Top rear sight. The standard height front flip sight will be too high if used in this set up. The DPMS steel detachable front sight is a perfect match for the CAA Carry Handle Mount sight. The CAA sight is fully adjustable for both windage and elevation and can be raised if needed to get the perfect sight elevation alignment for the standard height of the gas block front sight. The YHM Forearm Flip Sight also worked well with the CAA Carry Handle Sight. To accommodate the BUIS sight to the receiver, the B-Square Saddle Mount was found to be most compatible having the longest forward extension. The longer rail allows the installation of the CAA Carry Handle Sight with an ample portion of the sight base forward clamp connecting to the front end of the B-Square mount. To install the YHM Rear Flip Sight to the B-Square accessory, the second notch at the rear must be enlarged with the 3/16 diameter chainsaw file to accommodate the large connecting screw of the sight. The CAA Shotgun Rail Adaptor assembled at the front end of the barrel has larger slots and do not require any modification to accommodate both the YHM and DPMS front sight. While some may consider a heat shield for the barrel unnecessary, it does offer some sort of protection especially for the busy shooter who enjoys shooting a lot of rounds in a single session. In this gun project, the heat shield was incorporated not only for heat protection and cosmetics but also as a mounting base for a forward rail extension that would allow low mount installation of Red Dots such as the Eo-Tech and other similar devices in front of the Carry Handle Sight. The most compatible accessory to act as a forward extension to the B-Square mount was the Havlin Mossberg M500R rail. This accessory is exceptionally well made and the price is unbelievably low for its overall quality. The heat shield made by Advance Technology has elongated slots, is well made and economically priced. The shield is shortened at the front to fit the shorter distance from the rear end of the rail adaptor where the front sight is mounted. In cutting the required length at the front end of the shield, a small tab was left at the top front end to fit tight underneath the Shotgun Rail Adaptor when assembled. The rear end of the shield had its own built in clamp and secures the part solidly at the base of the barrel. The Havlin rail is positioned precisely at the top rear of the shield to act as an extension to the B-Square rail and just about level with it. The forward end of the Havlin rail will need a tapered aluminum pad at the bottom to keep the part perfectly straight at the front since the forward end of the shield tapers downward. The pad is connected to the shield by a 6-32 screw assembled from the bottom. Separately, the front end of the Havlin rail is assembled on top of the pad by two 6-32 socket head screws on its pre-drilled mounting holes. When the Carry Handle Sight is assembled to the B-Square mount there is a fraction of the handle sight that extend past the B-Square part and locks with the Havlin rail connecting the two rails together as one. It’s a simple but effective set up. The added forward rail can now accommodate an optic and will no longer require dismounting the Carry Handle Sight before any extra accessory can be alternated.

One of the major drawbacks of the M870 design, at least at this point in time, is its magazine capacity. For a short barreled format with a 14 inch barrel, the most you can have ready for action is 5 plus one for a total of six with one-shot extension. Ideally, a compact ten-shot box magazine with double row compartment tapered to a single feed would be the perfect improvement for this battle tested shotgun. So far, the most one can do is to install a side saddle mount. These accessories vary in capacity from four to six and are normally assembled on the left side of the receiver. The author found the 6-shot Side Saddle made by Tac-Star to be a perfect add-on to the tactical package. The saddle is mounted to a thick aluminum plate backing. The extended portion of the saddle was removed and squared shortening the overall length of the part but still keeping the 6-shot holders. The front end of the saddle was secured to the collapsible butt stock through the QD push button sling swivel mount. A mild steel rod insert was turned and assembled through the mounting hole with its enlarged section at the base acting as a stop. A 6-32 socket head screw was assembled inside the center hole of the insert and connects directly to the aluminum backing of the side saddle. The saddle is secured to the rear of the stock via a drilled hole inside the second cartridge holder also using a 6-32 socket head screw. The assembly hole for this screw in the stock must be smaller and threaded for the corresponding retaining screw. The head of the screw will flush below the plastic part when tightened and stop over the aluminum backing when tightened. Any protrusion of the screw inside the butt stock must be cut flush so it will not interfere with the sliding movement of the part. The screw head will not be visible when the cartridge is inserted to the loop. This arrangement provides the operator that extra leverage for an instant supply of extra rounds when needed.

CAA can participate in developing a product in this category to complement their superb M870 accessories. The writer discovered their AR Picatinny Mag Pouch (MPS) can actually accommodate 3-inch Magnum rounds with just enough tightness to keep the rounds in place. Unfortunately, the pouch will only take 3 rounds and needs to be pushed by a rifle cartridge through a hole behind the pouch. A wide elongated slot on the exterior side that fit’s the thumb to push the cartridges forward and out will also work with the MPS. Unique with the CAA stock is that it has a built in side rail which can be moved on either side of the stock. It is logical for this company to develop and produce a 6-round magazine complete with spring loaded follower to push the cartridge to the lips as the operator unloads. The back side of the magazine will have a matching connector for the rail to hold it into position in either side of the stock.

The end result of this project is quite a rewarding experience. In summing it all up, not only did the M412 closely resembled the famous US battle rifle it emulated, but shooting this upgraded tactical powerhouse is now a joy to shoot and the dreaded shoulder breaker was finally tamed and looks better than ever.

Sources

Command Arms Accessories
76 Vincent Circle
Ivyland, PA 18974
Phone: (267) 803-1002
Website: www.commandarms.com

Brownell’s, Inc.
200 South Front Street
Montezuma, IA 50171
Phone: (800) 741-0015
Web: www.brownells.com

If the television reality-show craze were to momentarily abort political correctness and expand into the gun world, there could certainly be potential in a new series called Pimp-My-Rifle. Just like the auto industry and the homebuilders have done, a bone-stock firearm could be presented for enhancement and returned to its owner in a highly modified configuration. Unfortunately, for the time being, no such reality show exists but thanks to the folks at CAA, many upgrades from mild to wild can privately be accomplished with a single phone call.

Plastic Rifle Popularity

There are several companies who specialize in manufacturing AR-15 style rifles in configurations too numerous to list here. The popularity of the semiautomatic version of America’s primary service weapon has exploded onto the civilian gun scene in the last decade evidenced by the number of major “sporting rifle” manufacturers who have added a version of the Black Rifle to their lineup. A firearm once considered on the fringe, or of limited interest, the AR-15 style rifle is no longer only being produced by specialized companies catering primarily to a military or law enforcement market. Eying a desirable and profitable market share, such well-known manufacturers as Remington, High Standard and Smith & Wesson seem to have now embraced the firearm that companies such as Colt, Bushmaster, DPMS, Olympic Arms, DoubleStar, and so many others have specialized in for decades.

With so many gun owners joining the ranks of the Black Rifle Owners Club, there has been a major influx of new ideas, points of view and weapon objectives brought forth by the fresh customer base and a desire to adapt this platform to their particular shooting discipline. This has, in turn, boosted the accessory market in volume and innovation. Jumping directly into the deep-end of the demand issue, CAA has a huge line of accessories for these rifles that continues to grow at an amazing pace. Their product line creates an environment where someone can purchase a standard, basic rifle and accessorize it for their particular purpose. Unfortunately, there have been specific cases where sensory overload occurred (too many available options and configurations) at a time when a purchase was about to be made and has led to a lost sale because the potential buyer wanted to “buy the right rifle the first time” and needed to do more research before buying.

Overload Problem Solved

One of the greatest advantages of the Black Rifle is the complete modularity built into the system. Almost any configuration in almost any caliber can be obtained with a little assistance from the aftermarket accessory industry. This means that for some shooters, especially those new to the AR-15 style rifle, the initial purchase can be as easy as a stripped-down, basic rifle, and it can be later customized to fit the specific criteria the new owner would desire. As well as making the initial purchase easier, this strategy has the potential to save the end user a substantial amount of money. Best of all, the configuration can be altered again, an unlimited number of times if desired, if a different or ever-changing end use should occur.

From Practical to Tactical… and Beyond

There is always plenty of discussion about what is considered a legitimate and useful accessory versus what constitutes an accessory deemed silly or ineffective. Ultimately this decision has to be the choice of the end user. This statement comes with a few light-hearted warnings.

• Black Rifle Bling – If you find something you can’t live without, hanging off the barrel of your Black Rifle, but it is a little “outside the box,” the ribbing from your peers is just part of the game. There are several accessories available and only you can decide what will meet your requirements. A light, a fore-grip or a laser, are usually acceptable in most shooting social circles. A bayonet lug mounted multi-blade combination lock-pick and hot dog fork might not.
• The 20-pound Light Rifle – Almost universally taunted by veteran AR-15 type rifle owners are those who purchase every accessory to the point of concealing the identity of the original firearm, and are often lightheartedly referred to as “Mall Ninjas” or “Internet Commandos.” Some guns have been intentionally over-accessorized and photographed for the web to poke a little fun at these, and some are even quite humorous. You will have to decide what you need for your new rifle based on the purpose you want it for. Just don’t mount everything you can find, anywhere it will fit, all at once.

If you are new to these rifles and maybe a little overwhelmed by the number of accessories available, consider these previous points your fair warning. They may save you some seemingly vicious but light-hearted ribbing.

The Right Touch

In order to demonstrate a series of practical upgrades to a base rifle, this writer contacted Command Arms Accessories (CAA) and explained the concept. They were asked to choose some of their popular accessories for a “makeover” on a basic rifle. In a very short period of time a few boxes arrived with several accessories and with the addition of a few components laying around the workshop, the first magazine version of Pimp-My-Rifle was underway.

The base rifle we started with had a low-end collapsible stock, a flattop upper receiver, standard front carbine-length forend, stock pistol grip and a traditional front sight & gas block.

• Stock – The makeover started at the rear and moved forward towards the muzzle. The first step was to deal with the factory stock. It was replaced with a CAA Collapsible Stock. This new stock gives the shooter a better cheek-weld and includes a no-slip rubber recoil pad as well as a small compartment that holds 4 CR123 Batteries, a short Picatinny accessory rail and an optional push-button sling swivel.
• Sling – With a mounting hole at the front of the new stock available, a one-point sling from CAA was chosen for this application. One-point slings work well in tight quarters and assist in weapon retention while incorporating quick-detach connection points.
• Pistol Grip – The stock pistol grip was replaced with a CAA Ergonomic Grip. This grip is a little wider, incorporates finger grooves and completely fills the space above the grip to the rear of the receiver for a very comfortable hold.
• Sights – Since this rifle had only a flattop receiver and standard front sight post, a combination of dot-type scope and adjustable iron sights were added and co-witnessed. They can be used in combination with each other or used individually if necessary or desired. The rear sight chosen was an LMT Tactical Adjustable Rear Sight. It is completely adjustable for windage and elevation. The red-dot scope chosen was a 30mm S.P.O.T. scope and mount from MGI Military. With several dot intensity settings this sight performs well in all light conditions.
• Rail System – Possibly the most versatile, and arguably the most popular, accessory of this rifle platform is a front rail system that allows for the attachment of numerous accessories. Since this was a project utilizing a base rifle with a standard upper receiver and front sight post, a TDI Arms X6 rail system was chosen. Manufactured from solid billet aviation aluminum, this 2-piece, 6-rail system simply replaces a standard carbine-length handguard and works in conjunction with the standard front sight. It is a drop-on rail installed with the factory delta ring and tightened with 5 bolts to secure the system. The top MIL-STD 1913 rail matches the height of the factory flat top rail to facilitate multiple accessories. Unused rail surfaces were covered with the assistance of an X6 Thermal Rail Cover Kit.
• Front Vertical Grip – The particular grip chosen for this project met a few different criteria. We used a CAA Flashlight Grip Adapter. This vertical front grip mounts on the front rail and accepts a standard 1-inch flashlight. Tactical lights with a rear button can utilize the built-in thumb switch in both a constant on and a momentary on mode. Lights with a pigtail-style pressure switch are also accommodated with built-in mounting surfaces.

Enough is Enough

Since we earlier made light of those who over-accessorize their rifles, we were cautious not to fall into that category with this build. Those who either need more accessories or just different accessories can rest well knowing that we didn’t even scratch the surface of the available items. For a full listing of CAA accessories you can visit their website at www.commandarms.com. Be prepared to be there for a while. There are numerous variants of the items we installed such as stocks, grips, mounts, slings and several other accessories not included such as magazine clamps, stock accessories, lasers and mounts, bipods and much more. They also carry accessories for many more firearms than just AR-15 style guns including AK47s, Uzis, P-90s, MP5s, Galils and several handguns.

Sources

Command Arms Accessories
76 Vincent Circle
Ivyland, PA 18974
Ph: (267) 803-1518
Fax: (267) 803-1002
www.commandarms.com

Lewis Machine Tool Company
1305 11th Street
W. Milan, IL 61264
Ph: (309) 787-7151
Fax: (309) 787-7193
www.lewismachine.net

MGI Military
102 Cottage Street
Bangor, ME 04401
Ph: (207) 945-5441
Fax: (207) 945-4010
www.mgimilitary.com

Command Arms Accessories Introduces Two New Forward Grip and Bipod Combinations

Command Arms Accessories (CAA) the manufacturer of unique and innovative weapon accessories is proud to introduce two new Forward Grip and Bipod Combinations. The Pod Grip, a molded grip and stable bipod combination, offers improved muzzle control and increased accuracy. Manufactured from high-density polymer, it has four finger grooves for a comfortable and secure grip. The push button instantaneously releases the bipod legs allowing the operator to immediately move from the CQB position to the fighting prone position. The bipod feet are serrated for improved gripping. The rail mounting surface of the grip/bipod has two location lugs which lock into the Picatinny rail eliminating any front to rear movement on the rail. Quick release and installation on the rail is accomplished with a spring loaded rail clamp and thumbnut. The second model is the Pivoting Pod Grip and has all of the features of the Pod Grip plus the additional features of pivoting up to 60 degrees off center in both directions (120 degrees total), for acquiring and maintaining the sight picture. The bipod legs re-center automatically once released from the ground for instant weapon repositioning. A unique joint in the grip base allows the operator to correctly position the rifle straight up and down even if the bipod legs are on an uneven surface. The Pod Grip and Pivot Pod Grip are made of super tough polymer with a hard black anodized stainless steel mechanism for use in wet, humid, or salt-water conditions. Tough polymer legs are reinforced with a 1.2mm steel insert heat treated to 48 Rockwell for extra strength. An optional ambidextrous pressure switch mount (PGS) is also available. These new products as well as all other CCA accessories come with a Lifetime Warranty. For more information please contact Command Arms Accessories, Dept. SAR, 76 Vincent Circle, Ivyland, PA 18974. Phone: (267) 803-1518. Fax: (267) 803-1002. Website: www.commandarms.com.

Samson Manufacturing Introduces Krinkov Tactical Rail

Samson Manufacturing makes a full line of tactical rails for just about any tactical rifle. It has now expanded its line of rails to include a very innovative 4-sided rail for the diminutive Krinkov series of AK rifles. The new rail system requires no gunsmithing other than removing the weapon’s existing wooden upper and lower handguard. The wood upper handguard is removed from the gas tube and then the tube is replaced. The rail features a barrel clamp that fastens around the barrel just forward of the rear trunnion. The two-piece rail system then fastens to the barrel clamp with four socket head screws for a very secure fit. It has four 1913-Picatinny Mil-Spec rails located on top, both sides and the bottom. The top rail features a clearance slot so that iron sights can still be used. The bottom rail and side rail have clearance cuts for either side or bottom folding stocks. The new rail system allows the addition of optics, lights, lasers and vertical grips (like the excellent new TangoDown Vertical “Stubby” grip shown in the photo). Two models of the Krinkov rail are available; the Model 2 for the Yugoslavian M92 and the Model 3 for the Bulgarian rifles. These, like all of Samson’s other rails, are made from 6061 T6 billet aluminum alloy for light weight and rugged strength. They also feature a black anodized finish and laser-etched T-slot letters and numbers. This new rail is added to a long list of existing rail systems and accessories for most tactical rifles as well as the new SIG 556. For more information please contact them at Samson Manufacturing Corporation, Dept. SAR, 110 Christian Lane, Whately, MA 01373. Phone: (413) 665-1162. Fax: (413) 665-1163. Website: www.samson-mfg.com. TangoDown products can be located at TangoDown, Dept. SAR, 1588 Arrow Highway, Unit F, La Verne, CA 91750. Phone: (909) 392-4757. Fax: (909) 392-4802. Website: www.tangodown.com.

PentagonLight Adds New MOLLE Light Forest

PentagonLight has expanded their highly successful MOLLE Light family with the introduction of their new MOLLE Light Forest. Reminiscent of the widely issued WWII TL 122 vintage military flashlight, the MOLLE Light is an up-to-date version and the smallest high-power anglehead LED flashlight available in the market today. Its small size fits through PALs webbing for secured hands-free attachment on MOLLE vests and compatible gear. The rotating metal clip provides attachment options to numerous other locations. Powered by a single AA battery, this 40-lumen white light has a runtime of up to 3 hours. A green filter is stowed in the base for changing the beam color to green for use as a hunter safety light, and is suitable for outdoorsman/campers without spooking wildlife. The filtered green beam also produces minimal signature to night vision goggles and devices. A top mounted button on/off switch allows operation without removing from webbing. A miniature magnetic compass in the tail-cap serves as a navigation aid. With this new addition, the MOLLE Light has furthered itself as an icon of compact personal flashlights. For more product information on MOLLE Light Forest and other advanced illumination tools please contact PentagonLight, Dept. SAR, 151 Mitchell Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94080. Phone: (650) 877-1555. Fax: (650) 877-9555. Their website is www.pentagonlight.com.

Hardigg Introduces HK UMP Storm Case

Hardigg now has a Storm Case made especially for the Heckler & Koch UMP submachine gun. The new case measures 20×14.6×5.8 inches and looks discreetly like a hard computer briefcase. The case is made from injection molded HPX resin and features easy opening “Press & Pull” latches. It also features a soft grip carry handle, lockable padlock hasps and a pressure release valve. On the inside, the watertight case has custom foam that is cut out for the UMP with its stock folded and an extra magazine. There is a removable piece of foam to accommodate a gun with attached optics. A removable upper foam tray reveals a bottom layer of foam that can store up to five magazines or accessories. It also comes with a padded shoulder strap and is available in either black or olive drab. Storm Cases offer more than just a very durable watertight, padlockable made in the USA case, they also are unconditionally guaranteed for life. For more information on this as well as their full line of weapon, industrial and custom made cases, please contact them at Hardigg Storm Case, Dept. SAR, P.O. Box 201, South Deerfield, MA 01373. Phone: (413) 665-2163. Fax: (413) 665-8330. Website: www.hardigg.com.

New A2 Back Up Iron Sight from GG&G

Improved and redesigned for 2008, the GG&G A2 Back Up Iron Sight (BUIS) provides the operator with an easy-to-install and easy-to-operate flip-up rear sight and includes the all important locking detent. Improvements include a more tactile and ergonomic windage knob, a countersunk crossbolt and more streamlined body. The GG&G A2 BUIS is always at the tactical ready once placed in the up position. The sight cannot be folded down without depressing the spring assisted detent release button located on the left side of the sight base. This totally eliminates the possibility of accidentally lowering the sight. All of these enhanced benefits improve the A2 BUIS and are offered without additional cost. The new sight can be used as a co-witness iron sight with most red dot sighting systems, as a stand-alone sight or in conjunction with the GG&G F.I.R.E. rails. The sight weighs just slightly over 2 ounces and features the standard military A2 style double peep aperture. The mount body and sight stem are manufactured from billet 6061 T6 aluminum alloy and Type III hard coat anodized in a non-reflective mil-spec finish to provide combat durability. All steel components are black manganese phosphated per mil-spec. As an option, the sight can be ordered with the XS same plane aperture or the Trijicon tritium aperture installed. For more information on this as well as an extensive line of fine firearm accessories please contact GG&G, Dept. SAR, 3602 East 42nd Stravenue, Tucson, AZ 85713. Phone: (520) 748-7167. Fax: (520) 748-7583. Website: www.gggaz.com.

ArmaLite Introduces the Ultimate SuperSASS

ArmaLite unveiled the AR-10 SuperSASS at the January 2006 SHOT show in Las Vegas, Nevada. It is the most technically advanced AR-10 yet produced. The AR-10 SuperSASS is derived from ArmaLite’s development of its XM110 prototype for the US Army. It is intended to provide Police and Military a semiautomatic sniper system without limitations of the government’s solicitation. The SuperSASS differs from earlier versions of the AR-10 in that it is equipped with a sound suppressor, full length rail mounting system handguard, and an adjustable buttstock to allow the rifle to be fitted to a wide range of shooters. It is equipped with a Leupold 3.5×10 tactical telescopic sight. For firing in suppressed mode, the SuperSASS is equipped with a selectable gas valve that supplies appropriate gas energy to the rifle. Most importantly, the SuperSASS benefits from extensive engineering development conducted to fine-tune the famed AR-10. Individuals not wishing or authorized to have a sound suppressor may purchase the system with a realistic dummy suppressor for display. For more information, please contact ArmaLite, Inc., Dept. SAR, 745 South Hanford Street, Geneseo, IL 61254. Phone: (309) 944-6939. Fax: (309) 944-6949. They can be found on the web at www.armalite.com.

Tri-Rings Scope Rings from B-Square Tactical

B-Square, the leader in a diverse offering of scope mounts, rings, and accessories is adding new tactical Tri-Rings to its already distinctive product offering. B-Square Tactical Tri-Rings set the standard when it comes to a diverse scope mount. Carefully and precisely machined from lightweight, premium-grade aircraft aluminum, these rings not only offer quick, easy installation with no gunsmithing, but also allow the shooter to augment his firearm with any number of accessories. Offering a dual application, the Tri-Rings not only work as a standard scope mount featuring Picatinny rails on three sides for secure-hold mounts for flashlights, lasers or other accessories, they also attach to any standard Weaver or Picatinny rail and offer accessory mounting alone. Built tough specifically for law enforcement, the B-Square Tactical Tri-Rings work great with B-Square White Light/Laser rings or any mount on the market that works with a Weaver or Picatinny style rail. B-Square Tactical Tri-Rings and other tactical products can be found anywhere law enforcement and military products are sold. Suggested retail of the new Tri-Rings is just $73.50. For more information please, contact them at B-Square, Dept. SAR, 8909 Forum Way, Fort Worth, TX 76140. Phone: (817) 923-0964. Fax: (817) 926-7012. They can be found on the web at www.b-square.com.

New Products from Command Arms Accessories

Command Arms Accessories continues to rapidly introduce new products that are tried and true and very innovative and now has a line of rifle accessories that is second to none. One of the newest is their Collapsible Butt Stock (CBS). This new item is a 6-position, 4-style stock that features a skeletonized design that also incorporates a short Picatinny rail and a storage compartment for CR123 batteries (4 total) or other small items. Ambidextrous design is achieved by easily switching the battery compartment lid and the Picatinny rail. Two pre-drilled holes allow for the addition of quick release sling adaptors. The stock also comes with the traditional sling mount. Additional features include; an ergonomic rubber recoil pad as well as an ergonomic telestock lever with finger grooves. The optional spare magazine pouch can be mounted on the Picatinny rail located on the side of the stock. The new stock will fit AR-15, M16 and M4 carbine or like buffer tube guns. It is available with the buffer tube system (buffer tube, buffer spring, buffer assembly, nut and collar) or just as the stock alone.

Another great accessory is their Picatinny Magazine Holder (MPS). This accessory clamps onto any Picatinny rail and accepts any AR-15/M16 .223 magazine. It allows you to position a spare magazine on your collapsible butt stock allowing quick access and reducing reloading time. No more straps to contend with, the magazine holder retains the magazine firmly while allowing removal with the touch of a finger on the release lever. Magazines can also be used on a belt with their optional Picatinny belt clip. For more information on these, as well as an extensive line of other accessories, please contact them at Command Arms Accessories, Dept. SAR, 76 Vincent Circle, Ivyland, PA 18974-1529. Phone: (267) 803-1518. Fax: (267) 803-1002. Their website is www.commandarms.com.

Laser Devises, Inc. Introduces its New Dual Beam Aiming Laser

LDI’s newest multi-functional aiming laser system, the DBAL-A2, is now available to military and law enforcement agencies. DBAL-A2 was recently selected for acquisition as part of the Multi-Functional Aiming Light Contract No. W91CRB-05-D-0029. Built to MIL-STD-810F, DBAL-A2 withstands the most adverse environmental conditions from desert heat to arctic cold. Fully waterproof to 20 meters and crafted from 6061T-6 aircraft grade aluminum, the DBAL-A2 is virtually indestructible. DBAL-A2 is equipped with infrared and visible laser pointers (combined into a single laser module), and a focusable infrared laser illuminator. A rotary mode switch instantly selects between the laser functions: Visible laser, IR laser, IR illuminator; or IR laser and IR illuminator combined. Fully adjustable for windage and elevation in 0.4 miliradian clicks, DBAL-A2 can be aligned for pin-point accuracy. The single module design permits the user to align both the visible and infrared pointers simultaneously. Advanced features of the DBAL-A2 include an electronically controlled low-power, eye-safe mode that can be used for force-on-force training. The training mode switch has a safety block that locks the laser into the low-power setting during training exercises and prevents the unit from being inadvertently switched into the high-power setting. The high-power mode offers long range pointing with an effective range of 2,000 meters. The DBAL-A2 is also equipped with activation and low battery indicator lights. One 3-volt lithium battery provides five hours of continuous operation. It is supplied with a standard A.R.M.S. throw lever mount that can be used to attach the laser to any small arms system equipped with a standard NATO or Picatinny mounting rail. Each kit is supplied with battery, remote cable pressure pad switch and five optical pattern generators in a nylon transport bag. For more information, please contact, Laser Devices, Inc., Dept. SAR, 2 Harris Court, Suite A-4, Monterey, CA 93940. Phone: (831) 373-0701. Fax: (831) 373-0903. They can be found on the web at www.laserdevices.com.

New Cleaning Kits for 7.62 Caliber Weapons

CJ Weapons Accessories has just introduced three new cleaning kits designed and manufactured exclusively for 7.62 caliber weapons. This new family of 7.62 caliber cleaning kits includes: the AK-47 in a tan nylon pouch for the new Iraqi Military, the FN-FAL in an olive drab nylon pouch and the AR-308 in a black nylon pouch. Each kit contains a .30 caliber T-handle, rod sections, patch tip, a bore brush and chamber brush appropriate for each specific weapon, patches and a bottle of CLP (Break Free). Similar to the original 5.56 caliber GI cleaning kits for the M16/AR-15 family of weapons, these kits provide a quick, easy and thorough way to keep 7.62 caliber weapons functioning flawlessly. These new 7.62 caliber cleaning kits are among the hundreds of accessories available from CJ Weapons Accessories, a supply house for military, law enforcement, sportsmen and collectors. For more information, please contact CJ Weapons Accessories, Dept. SAR, P.O. Box 104801, Jefferson City, MO 65110-4801. Phone: (800) 510-5919. Their website is www.cjweapons.com.