The United States Marine Corps put their best foot forward once again for the 30th annual Modern Day Marine (MDM) show at Quantico, Virginia. This year’s show was very well attended by both vendors and USMC personnel, with many new vendors on display. Over 8,500 attendees, mostly USMC, kept the over 400 booths energized. The discussions at the show had most of the attendees and vendors very pleased and planning on returning the next year. MDM is always a highly rated show for interaction with not only the higher ranked and hopefully decision makers, but with the rank and file Marines. Most vendors are aware that this is what builds their brand as the young Marines move up in rank they remember the lessons learned not only on the battlefield, but on the display floors as well.

There were many booths for organizations supporting the USMC and veterans. One group in particular SAR would like to bring to our readers’ attention: The U.S. Paralympics Military Program. This group is working with the U.S. Paralympics to help sponsor more of the thousands of severely wounded veterans into the active sports programs they provide. www.usparalympics.org or www.semperfifund.org.

AAI LSAT (Lightweight Small Arms Technologies) is a technology based program managed through the Joint Service Small Arms Program Office (JSSAP), located at the Army’s Armament Research, Development and Engineering Center at Picatinny Arsenal in New Jersey. The focus of LSAT is:

• Reduce the weight of weapons carried by warfighters by 35 percent
• Lower the ammunition weight by more than 40 percent
• Maintain or improve lethality and reliability over current systems
• Improve ergonomics and logistics
• Reduce training and maintenance time

These promising technologies continue to be matured and tested. Current program objectives are to:

• Develop the cased telescoped ammunition and light machine gun to TRL 7 and conduct an operational demonstration
• Continue maturation and demonstrations of the caseless ammunition and light machine gun
• Develop and demonstrate a cased telescoped rifle to TRL 5 (www.aaicorp.com)

Beretta– The TRG Folding Stock can be retrofitted to all TRG precision sniper rifles without any modifications to the weapon itself. Front to rear: PX4 .45 ACP SOCOM trials pistol with Gemtech Blackside suppressor. TRG-42 PSR .338 Lapua Magnum rifle with standard sidefolder. Beretta owns Steiner so they are featuring the Military 4-16×50, and the suppressor is the Surefire LLC model FA338SS. The Harris Bipod was chosen for this. The TRG stock system accepts Remington 700 USMC Short action and the M24 long action. Scope is the Schmidt & Bender PMII. The Harris bipod is chosen for this. (www.berettale.com)

One of the busiest booths at the show was the FNH USA booth with its emphasis on small arms for the warfighter. The SCAR program was well received with a constant flow of Marines looking over the rifle system, and the sniper and M3M .50 displays were also busy. (www.fnhusa.com)

The General Dynamics MK47 Grenade Machine Gun is a lightweight new generation of launcher that has been well accepted by testers and users alike. The idea for making it squad portable was put to Eagle and they designed a 4 pack system for packing this out – one pack that is for the MK47 itself, the next for tripod and FCU, and the next (add as many as you want) to carry the soft box ammo carriers in either 32 or 48 rounds. The soft carriers reduce the bulk of the ammo containers, but once loaded, will fit inside the original ammo cans the 40x53mm linked grenades come in making for a quick fit in a Humvee or other vehicle. (www.gd-ots.com) or (www.eagleindustries.com)

C. Reed (Trey) Knight III holds the M110 Carbine, the newly adopted Knight’s Armament Company 7.62×51 mm sniper rifle in its shorter profile. The patented dimpled ‘Heavy’ barrel delivers expected HB accuracy and consistency results, while providing lighter weight and more rapid cooling. 7.62mm M110 Carbine (P/N: 25749) pictured with Leupold 1.1-8x CQBSS (optional P/N 25884)

Prolific parts and weapons supplier LaRue Firearms presented several caliber variations of their Optimized Battle Rifle. The 7.62x51mm carbine version (shown) provides semiautomatic long range capability in a smaller package. (www.laruetactical.com)

The LMO/VLTOR manufactured PKM 7.62x54R machine gun that LMO has been supplying to USG customers. LMO is the GSA contractor armorer trainer for U.S. and foreign small arms, as well as a long-time supplier of unusual munitions. (www.longmountain.com)

LWRC featured their M6-G series rifles with the reliable short stroke gas piston operation they are well known for in their M16 based platforms. The REPR in 7.62x51mm was quite popular with the USMC attendees and is a contender for consideration on sniper systems. (www.LWRCI.com)

ManroyUSA.The MK43 Mod 0 EBS (Electro-optical BoreSight assembly) is utilized for accurately aligning weapons with their sighting systems. The EBS employs a state of the art color video camera and permits a single user to accurately and remotely align the weapon to the sight from the safety of the gunner’s position. The EBS provides a safe, easy to use, accurate, fast and reliable tool for boresighting that yields high first round hit probability. The ease of use of the EBS minimizes the time required to perform boresighting and maximizes the convenience and the frequency of the procedure. The EBS retains its accuracy over a wide range of environmental conditions and permits the alignment process to be accomplished at up to 2,000+ meters. (www.manroy-usa.com)

McCurdy’s Armor Dynamic Defense Materials, LLC is supplying a portable armored wall system named in honor of fallen Marine Corporal Ryan McCurdy. This armor system is fast to set up and as a single wall is effective up to 7.62mm threats. An interior wall can be added as well as sand-fill to bring that protection up to 12.7mm. (www.ddmat.com)

The Metal Storm Multi-Shot Accessory Underbarrel Launcher (MAUL) is an ultra-lightweight 12 gauge gun system that attaches to the barrels of the M4 and M16 Modular Weapon Systems (MWS). With Metal Storm’s stacked round firing system, the war fighter can load and fire five shots simultaneously in a single chamber, maximizing mission effectiveness. (www.metalstorm.com)

Nammo-Talley and Raytheon The new 83mm SERPENT shoulder fired launcher is a reloadable tube using a variety of task chosen ammunition that may be fired from enclosure. The three current workhorse rounds are the Novel Explosive for Urban Use, the High Explosive Anti-Armor, and the High Explosive Dual Purpose. The SERPENT weighs 10 pounds (4.5 kg), has an overall length of 32.4 inches (82.2 cm) in the carry position, and has a range of 500 meters (1,640 feet). (www.nammotalley.com) and (www.raytheon.com)

MSG Military Systems Group started in 1984 and has been supplying mount and weapon related products ever since. They are a GSA provider and are online at the e-buy system. (www.milsysgroup.com)

US Ordnance- STS US Ordnance’s display featured a twin M2HB .50 caliber machine gun set up with right and left hand feeds. US Ordnance has numerous government contracts on the M2HB as well as the MK43 Mod O (M60E4) 7.62x51mm machine gun. The twins are set onto a naval mount that is one of the featured products of Special Tactical Services, LLC. STS is committed to providing the highest level of training possible to all of their clients and their main business line is providing GS approved training as well as contracted security in operations. (www.usord.com) and (www.spectacserv.com)

Rheinmettal and Vingtech provided a variety of solutions and enhancements for the 40x53mm platforms. Perhaps the most interesting was the Vingtech MK19 Capability Upgrade. This system was combat proven on the HK GMG and brings new accuracy to the MK19 system. Upgrade package includes the Vingmate Fire Control System, Vingtech Combi Softmount and the Vingtech Video Trainer. (www.vingtech.com)

RPG Stopper – The ShotScreen RPG Defeat System is an active protection system that can be mounted on new or retrofitted LAVs and a variety of other vehicles and stationary platforms. The system releases a wave of small diameter, low velocity non-lethal pellets from several non-slewing locations to defeat multiple anti-tank type RPG grenades. To defeat an incoming RPG, two adjacent warheads are fired to form an overlapping pattern of pellets. The cloud of pellets travel to the intercept plane at a low rate of speed. This pattern, or ‘shot screen,’ intercepts the RPG round at close range from the protected vehicle and neutralized the RPG to nullify its lethality. This is done by short-circuiting the electrical path in the dual cone nose as shown in the picture. In an alternate version, it pre-detonated PG7s at a significant stand-off distance. (www.gd-ots.com)

Magpul has been providing a prolific line of upgrade products as well as their in-house weapons designs, but the game-changing P-Mag 30 is still one of the hottest items at any show. (www.magpul.com)

Carl Zeiss presented some new products: Front: 4×30 fixed 4x ballistic prop compensated with 8 degree field of view; L-R NSV-1000 long range night vision, IRV-600 IR-Thermal Imager 1.2km range to detect a human, NSV-600 Intermediate range image intensifier, 6-24 x 72 Hensoldt military optic, Rear: Spotter 60 20-60x spotter optic. (www.zeiss.com)

Tippmann Ordnance Company, related to the longtime U.S. company that produced the Tippmann miniature fully functional one-half scale Browning machine guns and air rifles/paintball equipment, has produced a series of training gear that is pneumatically operated. Training suicide bomber vests, roadside IEDs, and the new M1A-M2 Mortar Launcher (shown). The M1A-M2 is a paint marker system resembling a military crew served mortar, similar in visual impact with a standard military 81mm mortar. The marker system is a 62mm, smoothbore, muzzle loading, gas/Co2 operated, manually fired, high angle-of-fire training device. The device propels a 20 oz. marker round (water soluble marker paint), with a 4 round per minute firing cycle rate, with an effective range of approximately 500 yards, providing a 70+ feet in diameter ‘kill zone’ while employing a maximum operating pressure of 200 psi. (www.tippmannordnance.com)

In keeping with their tradition of support at MDM, SureFire had a well-stocked booth. Of note were the mil-spec rifle suppressors. Top to bottom: FA762K for 7.62x51mm rifles weighing 19 oz (539gr) and has a length of 8.4 inches (19.1 cm); MICRO for the 5.56x45mm rifles weighing 12 oz (340gr) with a length of 4.0 inches (10.2cm); MINI for the 5.56×45 rifles weighs 14 oz (397gr) with a length of 5.0 inches (12.7cm). (www.surefire.com)

Marine Corps Warfighting Lab – The MCWL is an effective group whose mission is to “Conduct concept-based experimentation and wargaming to develop and evaluate tactics, techniques, procedures, and technologies in order to support the warfighter by enhancing current and future warfighting capabilities.” This is accomplished through the various divisions of the lab; Science & Technology Integration; Global War on Terrorism Operations; Experiment Division; Technology Division, as well as several other groups. (www.mcwl.quantico.usmc.mil)

The SHOT Show is the world’s largest gathering of shooting, hunting and outdoor gear manufacturers. In fact the acronym SHOT stands for Shooting, Hunting and Outdoor Trade. Manufacturers display their wares for thousands of retailers, law enforcement, military and media types from all over the world. They also pick the SHOT Show to introduce their new products for the coming year. This year the show was located at the Sands Expo and Convention center in Las Vegas, Nevada. As the Venetian Hotel connects to the Sands Expo center there were booths in that hotel’s meeting rooms as well. The Sands/Venetian is probably not the best place for the show as this year it took two maps to try and find your way around. Even with the maps in hand, navigating the show was problematic at best. The show runs four days and even with that much time it is almost impossible to see everything. In covering this years show this author tried to uncover as many new products as possible, especially products that the readers of Small Arms Review would be interested in.

The Law Enforcement section of the show seems to grow tremendously every year. New products in the tactical and military field are driven by the need for them in places like Iraq, Afghanistan and mean streets the world over. Manufacturers of military and law enforcement firearms have been producing civilianized versions of the same firearms because of public demand either for self defense, sporting competition or simply collecting. If you don’t think that these guns are popular just take a look at the cover of any firearm related magazine. Small Arms Review has been known for covering these types of firearms since day one.

New firearms exhibited at the show always seen to create the biggest buzz. This year Bushmasters new rifle was probably talked about the most. The ACR (Adaptive Combat Rifle), which is a joint product of MagPul, Bushmaster and Remington Defense, has been in the works for several years. It is now finally scheduled for production, starting with the first Basic models in March and followed by the Enhanced version in May of this year. This rifle has several noted features that include a totally modular design with major components being able to be swapped out in seconds to include barrels of different lengths, stocks, forearms and even the trigger group. This piston drive rifle is adaptive for any situation with four different barrel lengths, two stock options and even different calibers. With the ability of changeable barrels and a bolt that is multi-caliber, the rifle can be switched from one caliber to another in minutes. The rifle will initially be available in 5.56 and 6.8 SPC. Other calibers will follow at a later date. The ACR is fully ambidextrous and accepts standard AR-15 magazines. (www.bushmaster.com)

LWRC International was on hand with their full line of fine rifles. New this year is the R.E.P.R. (Rapid Engagement Precision Rifle), a short stroke piston driven 7.62mm that can be configured for a variety of roles. It can be used with a 12 inch barreled upper in an assaulter role or by switching to a 20 inch barreled upper it can be used as a sniper rifle. The theory here is that carrying another upper in a backpack is more convenient that carrying two rifles. The rifle has a side-mounted charging handle that enables the operator to reload without removing his eyes from the target. Also, with a side-mounted charging handle the rear of the upper receiver has no opening that might allow gas to be blown into the shooters face when the rifle is equipped with a sound suppressor. The R.E.P.R. will be available in four models: the standard with either a 12 or 16.1 inch barrel, the Designated Marksman with an 18 inch barrel or the Sniper with a 20 inch barrel. (www.lwrci.com)

POF (Patriot Ordnance Factory) USA was on hand to introduce their new P-416 PDW. This gun is a 7 1/4 inch barreled piston driven .223 rifle that weighs right at 6 lbs. This tiny gun is just over 20 inches long with the stock collapsed. The gun features the MMR (Modular Railed Receiver), a free float barrel and a 3/4 inch shorter buffer system. Also new for POF this year is their new 25-round .308 magazines that will fit not only their P-417 series guns but also the Remington, DPMS, LWRC and the SR-25 rifles. Another new product from them this year is their Roller Cam Pin kit. This kit contains a new cam pin with a rolling head, a modified bolt carrier key which allows the new cam pin to be removed without removing the carrier key and new screws as well. The complete kit will retail for just $45. (www.pof-usa.com)

FNH USA chose the SHOT Show to introduce several new firearms as well as a couple of new less than lethal guns. The gun that drew the most attention was their new semi-auto version of the SCAR Heavy designated the SCAR 17S. Following last years introduction of the SCAR 16S that is the civilian version of the .223 Special Operations Combat Assault Rifle, the SCAR 17S is the .308 version. This piston driven rifle is totally ambidextrous with a magazine release and fire controls on both sides as well as a reversible charging handle. The SCAR 17S also has a folding, collapsible stock with a 2-position cheekpiece that allows the shooter’s eye to be aligned higher for optics or lower for iron sights. The gun can also be fired with the stock folded. Also new this year was FNH’s series of handguns called the FNX. The FNX is available in either 9mm or .40 S&W. The pistols feature either double or single action and have a decocking lever that allows the pistol to be carried either cocked and locked or hammer down in the decocked mode. A modular grip is another feature of the FNX and comes with several backstraps with different checkering and different profiles to fit just about any size hand. These new pistols were designed with a different grip angle and position so that the bore sits lower in the hand thus producing less recoil and reduced muzzle flip. (www.fnhusa.com)

Smith and Wesson has supplied duty weapons in the form of handguns for just about as long as anybody can remember. In recent years they have enhanced their line of law enforcement firearms with the M&P 15 series of rifles. The M&P logo designates Military and Police. This year they expanded the M&P 15 line with several new versions of this rifle. The first will be equipped with the MagPul MOE stock, MOE grip, MagPul P-Mag, MagPul folding sights and the Troy Industries TRX Extreme rail forearm. The new rail is very thin and light and only comes with a top Picatinny rail. There are mounting points located in various positions along the forearm to add rails. This allows the shooter to place rails just where they are needed and still have a smooth forearm gripping surface without the need for rail covers. This gun is equipped with a 14.5 inch barrel with a permanently attached muzzle brake to bring it to legal length. Another new model of the M&P 15 is their new piston driven rifle which will be available with either a standard M4 forearm or a railed forearm. The new rifle uses the excellent Adams Arms piston conversion that has a railed gas block. Adams Arms has a proven design that is well made and works every time. Smith & Wesson has also updated the M&P 15-22 that was introduced last year and is their entry into the .22 LR black rifle market. It features polymer upper and lower receivers and a full sized .22 LR magazine that makes the gun look just like its full-sized counterpart. The new model of the M&P 15-22 now has a railed forearm, MagPul stock and pistol grip and now also a threaded muzzle that will accept different muzzle devices as well as a suppressor. The M&P 15-22 has had rave reviews and now this upgraded model is bound to be a winner as well. (www.smith-wesson.com)

Several companies picked the show to break the news of their new .22 rimfire guns. Among them, Umarex USA will be bringing to market a new line of Heckler & Koch licensed .22’s. These will include semi-auto rimfire copies of the H&K 416 battle rifle and the H&K MP-5 submachine gun. Two versions of both will be available. There will be a standard MP-5 with a dummy suppressor shroud that will cover its 16 inch barrel and also a model with what appears to be an MP-5 SD with an integral dummy suppressor covering its long barrel. As far as the 416 goes, it will be produced in a standard rifle configuration as well as a pistol version with a dummy suppressor. Both models are sure to be hot sellers. (www.umarexusa.com)

Barrett Firearms announced their newest heavy hitter. They are now producing their Model 82 A1 in .416 Barrett caliber. Their original Model 82 A1, in .50 BMG, has become feared the world over as the shoulder fired cannon that can reach out and touch someone or something at extraordinary ranges. Now this same platform will be produced in their latest caliber. This .416 caliber alternative further adds to the mystic of the Model 82 A1. With enhanced accuracy and stability, not to mention a significantly higher muzzle velocity, the .416 offers extreme long range accuracy. Like the original M82 A1 this rifle comes with a 29-inch chrome-lined barrel, carry handle, optics rail, flip-up iron sights, detachable bipod and cleaning kit all in a fitted Pelican case. If you want a heavy caliber rifle but live in a state that doesn’t allow it, this is your rifle. (www.barrettrifles.com)

New accessories abound at the SHOT Show and many retailers visit the show for just that purpose to have the newest and neatest accessories that the industry has to offer. With over 1,800 exhibitors plying for the business, most dealers will run out of money before they run out of things to stock up on.

Suppressors have become big business with the tactical market expanding the way that it has. A relatively new suppressor company called Silencerco was there explaining the merits of their new suppressors. Classified as their Osprey line, the new handgun suppressors utilize a revolutionary eccentric design which means that the internal bore of the suppressor does not run exactly through the center of the outer tube but instead runs through the top of the tube. This allows for a slimmer, flat sided suppressor tube that still has the internal volume of a round tube. Because of its slimmer form it can be holstered while still attached to the host firearm. Another feature of these suppressors is a Nielsen device that is integrated with a cam-lock mounting system. Interchangeable pistons in the locking system allow one suppressor to be used with multiple host weapons. With an eccentric design these new suppressors allow an unobstructed sight picture without having to use extremely tall sights. They also offer safe hearing protection without the use of water or grease. The Osprey suppressors are available in 9mm, .40 S&W and .45 ACP. (www.silencerco.com)

Gemtech has long been known for their line of fine suppressors and this year they have added some new 100% titanium suppressors. These new suppressors still provide the optimum sound suppression but with the substantial weight reduction and strength of titanium. These include the PSR (Precision Sniper Rifle) in .338 Lapua, the QUICKSAND in 7.62 NATO, the G5-Ti in caliber 5.56mm and the TREK in 5.56mm. Also new for 2010 is their G5-22, a .22 LR suppressor that has been designed to be correctly proportioned for the .22 caliber full-sized copies of famous assault rifles. It looks just like their 5.56mm G5 but made for .22 rimfire. It can be 100% user disassembled and has zero first round pop. They also have now introduced their new ALPINE .22 LR suppressor. This suppressor was designed for shooters who wanted a suppressor for their .22 rifles and pistols that could be taken apart. The only tool needed for disassembly is a U.S. coin. Gemtech is also now providing suppressors in Realtree and Desert Digital camouflage. (www.gem-tech.com)

Leatherman introduced one of the neatest accessories for all of the AR shooters out there. It is a new multi-tool called the MUT that functions as both a tactical as well as a practical tool for military, law enforcement and civilian shooters. It comes in either a utility model or the EOD model. The utility model has 18 tools plus a 3 piece bit kit and the EDO model is equipped with 17 tools as well as the 3 piece bit kit. The MUT has several tools specially designed for servicing the AR-15/M16 rifle. There is a bolt override tool, a firing pin removal tool, a takedown and retaining pin removal tool, a bronze bolt carrier carbon removing tool, cleaning rod brush attachments and optic mounting and adjustment tools. Both tools feature a removable pocket clip and a MOLLE Sheath. Everyone that owns an AR-15 or M16 needs to have one of these. (www.leatherman.com)

Optics have not been left behind when it comes to the tactical arena and several of the major players have introduced “Tactical” lines of their scopes. This year Leopold brought out their new Tactical Optics line. This new line features the newest Mark 4 ER/T riflescopes. Leupold’s Mark 4 Extended Range/Tactical M1 Front Focal riflescopes are designed to let you take advantage of the reach and power of today’s long-range hunting, target and tactical rifles. At 20x or even 25x, you’ll have the superior clarity needed to positively ID targets, and the generous range of windage and elevation adjustment that gives you the accuracy and precision that you need at the most extreme distances. They also now have a full line of tactical mounts and bases so that mounting these new optics to any rifle is not a problem. (www.leupold.com)

All in all, this years SHOT Show proved to have just about anything that anyone in the industry would have an interest in. This article in no way covers every new item that was represented there. It would take hundreds of pages to cover them all. Just be sure to watch future issues of Small Arms Review as we cover a host of new and interesting products from the shooting industry.

The show, held January 15-18 at Orlando’s Orange County Convention Center, comprised 715,000 square feet of exhibit space, with 1,800 exhibiting companies. According to preliminary figures, this year’s show attracted 25,384 attendees, 22,098 exhibiting personnel and a record 1,425 members of the media for a total attendance of 48,907.

“This has been a tremendously successful show from a number of standpoints,” said NSSF President Steve Sanetti. “Exhibitors and buyers were very upbeat, the products sold well, and I’d say the industry begins 2009 with a sense of cautious optimism in this challenging economy.”

Small Arms Review exhibited at the SHOT Show, and presents this overview to new products of potential interest to the NFA community.

Constitution Arms Palm Pistol

The Palm Pistol made a splash in the national news media outlets when the U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced that it was revoking a prior determination that the pistol was a “medical device.” Whether accurate or not, a solid model of the pistol was available for examination. The model proved to be very ergonomic and easy to grasp. The design incorporates two independently operable grip safeties that are deactivated by firmly gripping the pistol. A loaded chamber indicator allows the user to quickly determine if the firearm is loaded while a Picatinny rail allows the attachment of a small flashlight or laser aiming device.

Similar to a rifle where the recoil force is directed rearward to the shoulder, the palm pistol directs recoil into the palm and through the forearm of the shooter. While a firing model was not available for examination, the solid model was a very effective demonstration tool to show that the firearm is a viable design, is comfortable to handle, and capable of wide market appeal.

Elite Iron Suppressors

Elite Iron Suppressors of Bonner, Montana showcased several new suppressors within their line up. The Tango Down pistol suppressor is offered in three calibers: 9mm, .40 S&W, and .45 ACP. Utilizing a 7075-T6 aluminum tube, the .45 caliber suppressor is capable of 19-22 dB reduction when fired dry or 33-35 dB reduction when fired wet. The suppressors also feature a removable recoil booster for Browning-type pistols, as well as a super tough Ceracote surface treatment. Owner Dale Poling explained that the Ceracote is more durable than anodizing and provides a superior surface treatment. With a limited lifetime warranty, the Tango Down suppressors weigh 11 ounces (without the recoil booster) and retail for $750.

Elite Iron also has two new rifle suppressors intended for .223, .308, .338 Lapua, .416 Barrett, or .50 BMG. The SERE features an oversleeve design and is intended for a 20-inch barreled AR-15 type weapon. Due to the oversleeve design, the suppressor is better able to capture residual high pressure gas during the firing sequence, is lighter in weight, and operates as a highly efficient flash suppressor. SERE suppressors are built to order and retail at $825 for a .223 suppressor, or $925 for a .308 suppressor. Brian boasted that he currently has over 70,000 rounds through the .223 suppressor design with minimal wear to the suppressor.

The Alpha suppressor is intended for .416 Barrett or .50 BMG rifles. Weighing just under four pounds, the Alpha provides hearing safe suppression on the .416 Barrett platform when shooting 438-grain projectiles at 3,200 feet per second. Field testing of the suppressor provided a 24-inch group at 3,000 meters. The Alpha suppressor retails for $1,395. All suppressors made by Elite Iron are 100% TIG Welded. Additional information on Elite Iron Suppressors may be found on the web at www.eliteiron.net.

Airtronic USA, Inc.

During a brief interview, Airtronic revealed that they are currently manufacturing all M203 grenade launchers for the U.S. Government, with over 22,000 M203s manufactured during 2008. Airtronic also currently manufactures 65% of all spare parts for the M2HB machine gun.

Airtronic displayed a 40mm stand-alone grenade launcher system. Intended to allow the use of an M203 without a host rifle, projected retail for the stand alone system without sights is $250. Future developments include a version without a buttstock for use as a breaching tool. Mr. Dockery reports that the recoil from a breaching round when fired without a stock is manageable. More information may be found online at www.airtronic.net.

SWR Manufacturing

SWR Manufacturing displayed their new A2RA suppressor. Rated for full automatic fire, the suppressor is intended for the M4 rifle system but may be utilized with any 5.56mm rifle that uses a standard A2-type flash hider.

The suppressor uses a proprietary mounting system licensed from SAI in Denmark. The design uses two locking rings – the first ring acts as a gas check while the second ring secures the suppressor to the weapon. With this design, the suppressor locks tightly to the host weapon but will not interfere with existing sling mounts or bayonet lugs. While conducting research into the design, it was noticed that some suppressors could not be securely mounted to the HK416 rifle due to dimensional differences between rifle manufacturers. The A2R2 suppressor eliminates this concern, and will operate effectively on either gas or piston operating systems.

The A2R2 features an inconel blast baffle, measures 1.5 inches in diameter, is 7.5 inches in length, and weighs 21 ounces. The suppressor is fully TIG welded, and cannot be disassembled. Projected retail price is $795, with full production available in Summer 2009.

Smith and Wesson

Whether due to commodity prices on the world market or a shortage of ammunition due to uncertain political conditions, the cost of shooting has increased. Enter the Smith and Wesson M&P 15-22. A dedicated full sized AR-15 type rifle, the M&P 15-22 is a dedicated .22 caliber rifle.

Both the upper and lower receiver is engineered from high strength polymer. The rifle’s operating features, functionality and durability are true to the standard AR-15 design, offering all of the features found on an AR-15 or M16 rifle. The M&P 15-22 features a 16-inch barrel with a 1:15 twist. The M&P 15-22 comes standard with a six-position collapsible stock and an A3 style flat top upper receiver with a quad-rail hand guard.

Similar to a full sized AR-15, the bolt and charging handle are fully functional. The fire control parts feature standard AR-15 parts in the expected locations on the rifle. Reportedly, the internal fire control parts (with the exception of the springs) are standard AR-15 parts and after firing the last round the bolt locks to the rear allowing the user to easily load a new 25-round magazine.

The unloaded weight of the rifle is approximately 5 pounds; measures 31 inches with the stock collapsed and 34 inches with the stock fully extended. The M&P 15-22 is designed to accept all 1913 Mil-Std rail adaptable accessories, Mil-Spec carbine stocks and most standard after-market AR-15 pistol grips.

When asked, Smith and Wesson representatives indicated that the entire system was designed from the ground up and that the upper receiver will not function on a standard AR-15 lower receiver. S&W representatives were also unable to comment on whether the system could be converted to a post-86 restricted machine gun.

The M&P 15-22 is well suited to recreational shooting while also being an extremely viable training firearm for law enforcement and military personnel and has a retail price of $449. 25-round magazines will retail for $29.95.

Wylie X

Whether a recreational shooter, active military, or a member of law enforcement, gloves should be considered as important as eye protection. Accidents happen – barrels get hot, out of battery detonations occur, and targets may have sharp edges. Wearing gloves while shooting protects the shooters hands and may reduce the possibility of injury. Wylie X is well known to U.S. military personnel for their line of eye protection and now Wylie X has released four new flame resistant combat gloves.

Currently listed on the Government approved product list as non-flammable, the Wiley X CAG-1 glove is sold in either short or gauntlet length. When compared to the standard aviator’s Nomex glove, the CAG-1 gloves were hands down more comfortable. Unlike the standard issue Nomex gloves, the CAG-1 allows the wearer to easily pick up small objects with no loss of manual dexterity. Current feedback from deployed troops indicates that the CAG-1 gloves are lasting twice as long as current issue gloves.

The CAG-1 gloves are available at Military Clothing Sales Stores, AAFES, civilian clothing outlets, and on the web at www.wileyx.com. Suggested retail ranges from $88-$150, depending on model and style.

Heckler and Koch

As reported last year in Small Arms Review, Heckler and Koch has released the MR223 rifle for US sales. While similar in exterior appearances to the HK416 rifle, subtle engineering differences were observed. The changes were explained as necessary in order to comply with German firearm regulations.

Three significant differences between the MR223 and HK416 were observed. The rear take down pin on the MR223 lower receiver was relocated 6mm to the rear, preventing the installation of a 416 upper receiver on an MR223 lower receiver. In addition, the MR223 chamber has a protrusion preventing the installation of a standard AR-15/M16 bolt carrier into the MR223 receiver. In the event that an AR-15/M16 bolt carrier was installed in an MR223, the bolt would not fully seat within the chamber and the rifle would not function. The MR223 bolt carrier has a corresponding notch to match the chamber protrusion allowing the rifle to function properly with use of an MR223 bolt carrier. Unlike the European version, the firearm was equipped with a flash suppressor.

The need for the design change is based upon German and U.S. law. As a German company, Heckler and Koch must comply with German law while complying with U.S. law when importing or manufacturing domestically. German law prohibits the sale of the HK416 to civilians, regardless of where the rifle is manufactured. As a result of the 1989 import restriction, the HK416 cannot be imported into the U.S. without substantial modifications to the external design. As a result, the MR223 is being made within the U.S. Prior efforts to import rifles from Germany resulted in the HK SL8 rifle, which was internally similar to the HK G36 battle rifle yet featured a highly modified stock. Domestic production of the MR223 should avoid import and design issues encountered with the HK SL8 rifle.

FNH-USA

As reported in the February 2009 issue of Small Arms Review, FNH-USA announced the release of a civilian legal SCAR rifle chambered in .223. According to FNH-USA representatives, the civilian version of the SCAR rifle will be virtually identical to the military version. Two obvious changes to the civilian SCAR rifle include semi-automatic only function and an 18-inch barrel with standard A2-type birdcage flash hider. The rifle is expected to retail for $2,499.

Timney Triggers

The Ruger 10/22 is one of the most popular American made firearms in recent history. The ability to easily change the barrel and internal components makes the rifle easily adaptable. As many SAR readers are aware, the rifle is also easy to suppress, or make into a short barreled rifle. In 2006, Timney triggers took the shooting world by storm with the release of their AR-15 trigger system. Timney has done it again with the release of a new trigger system designed for the Ruger 10/22 rifle.

As a true drop in and self-contained modification, the Timney unit replaces the 10/22 trigger mechanism by providing crisp trigger response and allowing increased accuracy. The factory 10/22 features a 6-8 pound trigger pull. The new Timney trigger system eliminates trigger creep and reduces the trigger pull to a highly accurate 2-3 pounds. Easy to install, the unit utilizes the factory pins with the addition of two set screws to secure the unit within the receiver. Total installation time was about 15 minutes, with the majority of that time spent assembling and disassembling the rifle. Suggested retail is $149.95.

Tango Down

Tango Down presented two new products for commercial and military customers. The new Tango Down AR-15/M16 magazine presents a new take on an old design. The Tango Down magazine is a sealed two piece design that is not intended for disassembly. Traditional AR-15/M16 magazines are molded in a constant radius throughout the body of the magazine. With the multitude of manufacturers producing AR-15 and M16 lower receivers, there is no control over the specifications or design features within the lower receiver. As a result, Tango Down discovered that traditional AR-15/M16 magazines do not always fit within certain lower receivers, specifically, the Heckler and Koch 416. The newly designed magazine features a straight section that is inserted within the weapon, while utilizing the traditional curved section for the exposed section of magazine.

The magazine spring has also been redesigned with tests replicating the loading and unloading of the magazine through 10,000 cycles. Ten thousand cycles translates to 300,000 rounds of ammunition through a single magazine. The life of the magazine spring should far exceed the life of the magazine body.

Two types of magazines are offered. The first is intended for the military market and incorporates a seal between the magazine and the magazine well. The sand seal is intended to eliminate and prevent sand and other debris from entering the weapon, while providing a high quality product. The commercial version will not feature the sand seal, as the seal increases the magazine width. Suggested retail for the Tango Down magazine is $24.95.

Tango Down also featured a newly designed vertical grip. The new grip eliminates the dual locking bars currently found on existing Tango Down and Knight’s Armament forward grips. Jeff Cahill of Tango Down explained that dimensional tolerances in Picatinny rails can result in a bad fit when locking bars are utilized. If the rail is undersized, the grip will be loose and may wobble. If the rail is oversized, the grip may not fit, or may break once installed. In addition, it can be difficult for users to install, remove, and adjust grips utilizing dual locking bars.

The new grip utilizes a throw lever, which allows for adjustment in size. If the rail is oversized, the throw lever can be adjusted to accommodate the rail. If the rail is undersized, the throw lever system can be adjusted to fit snugly, unlike the current locking bar type grip. Additional information on Tango Down products may be found online at www.tangodown.com.

Badger Defense

A combined display by Badger Defense and Airtronic caught the eye of many at SHOT 2009 with a display of RPG-type rocket launchers. Formerly Badger Barrels, the company has been acquired by Airtronic USA, Inc., of Elk Grove Village, Illinois and renamed Badger Defense.

The latest offering from Badger Defense includes an American manufactured RPG rocket launcher. Representatives for the company indicated that the entire design had been improved with 3130 barrel steel being used in place of original cast barrels, an upgrade to the double action trigger group, the addition of an electronic sight, (with a built in internal ballistic and range finder) the addition of Picatinny rails to allow the addition of a bipod and other accessories, and an improved AT-4 type stock. The improvements will reportedly allow the system to hit a point target at a range of 500 meters.

Badger Defense will be manufacturing a full line of energetic and Less-Lethal ammunition for the system. Kevin Dockery has been hired as the production manager and will be in charge of day-to-day operations. Mr. Dockery explained that during the redesign process, “We were finding dimensional differences of 2mm in Russian, Chinese, and other rounds. The newly made American rounds will be superior to any round manufactured in a Warsaw Pact country.” The Badger Defense version of the OG7 fragmentation round will boast a better fuze system and provide controlled fragmentation compared to the original Russian offering. The redesign includes an improved rocket and propellant system to include the elimination of black powder as a propellant and the elimination of the original piezoelectric fuze system. Instead, a triple redundant electronic fuze will be employed to comply with current U.S. Military requirements.

Sub-caliber devices chambered in .308 Winchester are in the planning stage. The entire system will be available for sale on the commercial market, with the option of purchasing a live destructive device, or an ATF-approved deactivated system. Reportedly, the deactivated system will be classified as a Title 1 (Non-NFA) firearm and will allow the user to fire the sub-caliber conversion. According to Mr. Dockery, the sub-caliber conversion has been classified as a “pistol,” due to the short barrel length, and will also be sold as a Title 1 firearm.

The 2010 SHOT Show is scheduled for January 19-22, 2010 and is returning to Las Vegas, Nevada. Reportedly, the SHOT show will remain in Las Vegas through 2021. Additional information may be found online at www.shotshow.org.