For many there is no debate over choosing a personal defense handgun. Any discussions of preferred weapons start and stop with John Browning’s .45 ACP 1911. A few years ago SIG Sauer made the decision to enter the ever burgeoning and fertile U.S. 1911 pistol market by introducing various models of 1911 style handguns. A less well known SIG decision made circa 2006 prior to the SIG 1911 offering was an effort to offer an alternate single-action handgun choice to shooters in lieu of the 1911. SIG Sauer chose to configure its well respected P220 .45 ACP with a single-action only (SAO) trigger and thumb safety. Various P220 SAO models are available with characteristics such as extended beavertail signified with an “Elite” designation along with 5 inch barreled P220 models with adjustable target sights labeled the P220 Super Match. SIG realized that a more compact P220 design would help them attract even more consumers, especially considering the expanding concealed carry laws spreading across the majority of U.S. states. The specific P220 SAO model reviewed herein is the P220 Carry SAO that reflects this virtue by featuring a shorter barrel/slide. SIG is often more associated with their respected line-up of double/single action handguns rather than the quintessentially American 1911 or single-action only P220. Ironically, it seems the SIG 1911s enjoy more widespread popularity than the longer tenured P220 SAO models. Gun culture members are by nature conservative and view new offerings skeptically until proven via use. The SIG 220 Carry SAO has found its initial reception somewhat cool in the US market with many shooters unaware it exists as an option.

The P220’s history and track record of proven performance on the battlefield and street grant the P220 Carry SAO instant credibility. The P220 Carry’s profile wrapped around the potent .45 ACP cartridge makes it ideal for concealed carry, especially with inside-the-waistband carry techniques. Someone who is a practitioner of concealed carry quickly realizes that length, grip size, overall weight, and width of a pistol are the key defining parameters for discrete carry handguns. However, many have not had much success with finding a compact concealed carry 1911 that is reliable. Numerous test attempts involving sub-4inch barrels (or smaller) 1911’s have left many disappointed in terms of reliability and most users resort back to carrying full size 5-inch barreled 1911s. SIG’s P220 Carry SAO may give many the impetuous for another attempt to find a single-action only .45 ACP for concealed carry.

The aluminum frame and 3.9 inch barrel of the P220 Carry SAO translates into it weighing only 30 ounces making it very do able for inside-the-waistband carry if a user desires. Full size 1911s often weigh several ounces more than this and no one will contend this weight prohibits consideration for everyday carry if a person wishes. The P220 Carry SAO’s low profile design of the ambidextrous safety and slide lock levers minimize the chance of inadvertently engaging the levers when drawing the weapon or shooting under pressure. While the safety lever is located within natural thumb swipe distance, the slide lock sits further toward the rear of the frame compared to other weapons. This all but eliminates the chance of unintentionally engaging the slide lock during strings of fire as can happen when shooters rest their thumb on the lever with other designs. The slide lock should not be primary means of sending the slide forward after reloads anyway; a better method is to release the slide by pulling it back by hand and releasing after a fresh magazine is inserted. This simplifies reloading and malfunction drill manipulations. Another nod in the P220’s more modern design is the SIG P220 Carry safety’s ability to stay engaged while manipulating the slide. The P220 Carry SAO’s does not have full-fledged beavertail grip which further aids in providing concealed carry qualities by reducing the overall length of the weapon. The SIG Sauer P220 Carry SAO comes standard with two 8-round magazines. However, 10-round magazines are readily available. SIG magazines are an often overlooked key component of SIG’s legendary reputation for functioning in any imaginable environment.

The P220 Carry’s shorter barrel/slide is more compact than standard P220s which makes it easier to carry IWB while still maintaining an effective sight radius for accurate fire. The P220 Carry SAO can be equated to a Commander-length slide and provides the optimum mix of sight radius, concealment, balance, and reliability. The P220 Carry SAO measures 7.1 inches long, 5.5 inches high, and weighs 30 ounces. SIGLITE night sights compliment the P220 Carry’s intended role as a concealed carry weapon. The gun’s 3.9 inch cold hammer forged barrel and short reset single-action trigger combined with near perfect lock-up in the stainless steel slide insure maximum reliability and performance. The slide is finished in a durable Nitron finish and the aluminum frame is hard-coat anodized featuring a Picatinny rail dust cover for tactical versatility in the way of lights and laser target designators. SIG P220s are distinctive in appearance with slab sided slides fitted to the frame along full length rails ensuring smooth reliable operation.

The SIG’s single-action trigger pull measured 5 lbs. No weapon’s reliability should be blindly trusted without confirming functioning, especially if used for personal defense. An assortment of both premium and target ammunition were fired thru the P220 Carry SAO to verify reliability. Hornady TAP-FPD +P 230gr, Federal Premium 230gr Hydra Shok and 185gr FMJ Semi-Wadcutter Match, Winchester 230gr PDX1 and 230gr FMJ, and Black Hills 230gr JHP and FMJ were tested. Firing was at a relatively steady pace with different shooters running the P220 Carry thru its paces on plate racks, dueling trees, and other drills. The P220 Carry SAO impressively handled all brands, bullet types, and weights with equal aplomb with one significant caveat.

An interesting development discovered was the inability of P220 magazines accepting steel cased ammunition. This was inadvertently revealed when someone at the range offered a box of steel case .45 ACP ammunition for use. While it was possible to start loading a couple of steel case .45 ACP into a P220 magazine, inevitably the magazine’s follower would hang up not allowing for the magazine to be fully loaded. This was a situation proofed with several 8-round and 10-round magazines on hand for this T&E. A discussion with a SIG Sauer representative shed no light as to the reasoning behind this. Prior, relatively extensive, experiences with other .45 ACP caliber weapons using steel case .45 ACP – Glock and/or various 1911 magazines – have never exhibited this problem. It is the opinion of this author that the increased frictional properties derived by the steel case .45 ACP compared to brass case .45 ACP, combined with the tight tolerances of the P220 magazines, prevented the steel case cartridges from stacking/traveling properly in P220 magazine bodies. It is not only friction between cartridges, but also with the steel cases contacting the P220 magazine’s metal body; the resistance encountered proved too much for effective function of the P220 follower. As a side note, the few steel cased .45 ACPs that could be loaded into a P220 magazine fired and ejected with no issues as long as cartridges exhibited no abnormal characteristics while resting in the magazine. Some may find the exhibited inability to use steel case .45 ACP with the SIG P220 SAO as tested herein problematic; others will find this trivial and take comfort that brass cased .45 ACP functioned flawlessly no matter bullet profile or weight. Ultimately, this will be an individual decision.

The P220 Carry’s ergonomics and handling characteristics are quickly appreciated and make a user understand why the P220 as a whole is well thought of. Even under the induced stress of drawing against a timer and engaging multiple targets, the manual safety was always positively disengaged. The full size grip frame and overall balance of the P220 Carry SAO made recoil no more of a factor versus a full size P220 and was in no way unmanageable. The reduced length and weight is far more beneficial for concealed carry. Significantly, no malfunctions were experienced while test firing over 700 rounds during range visits. It is not normal protocol to bench test handguns for accuracy due to reliability and quick engagement of targets being more paramount in a self defense handgun. A weapon like the P220 Carry SAO should be fired as it is designed to be used – standing without support and while moving to get off the X. This is the true measure of accuracy combining trigger pull, grip, and sights. However, it could not be resisted with the P220 Carry SAO due to the SIG reputation for accuracy and quality control. The SIG did not disappoint regularly producing 2-3 inch groups at 25 yards. This rivals full-size Match 1911s.

As mentioned earlier, positive experiences in terms of reliability with compact 1911 designs over the years have been lacking. The P220 Carry SAO attributes for accuracy and reliability due to SIG Sauer quality and similarity to a Commander-length slide make it an attractive alternative to any single-action 1911 connoisseur. The comparison to the classic 1911 is inevitable with the P220 Carry with its SAO trigger, similar size, and .45 ACP chambering. The single-action only trigger is a key component in this equation as it aids in rapid target engagement with a trigger pull just less than 5 pounds with minimal trigger reset. The slide/barrel combination contributes more mass, aiding in increased muzzle control for double taps or longer strings of fire. The ergonomics combined with the slide’s track along the entire length of the frame during recoil and manageable .45 ACP muzzle signature allows for a very stable sight picture no matter how many or how rapid rounds are fired. The slight rearward frame protrusion guides one’s hand to the optimum grip position during the draw stroke and aids in recoil management. It is not hard to fathom why some may consider the P220 Carry applicable to personal defense/tactical work.

T&E was conducted at Echo Valley Training Center, a private range located near Winchester, VA, where many local and federal law enforcement tactical team members train. It is difficult to convey how many shooters at the range perked up when first exposed to the SIG Sauer P220 Carry SAO. Many confessed ignorance that SIG even offered a single action only variant in the 220 series. Every time one of them got to handle and shoot the P220 Carry SOA, a convert was obtained. Their duty weapons span the gamut, including custom tuned 1911 pistols, but all appreciate what the P220 Carry SAO offers in terms of accuracy, reliability, handling, and lethality. Considering the SIG P220 Carry SAO primary role as a defensive handgun it was decided to evaluate it using several drills experienced in Roger Phillip’s Suarez International Point Shooting Progressions course. To clarify, point shooting is not random, mindless firing from the hip substituting mass of fire for accuracy. Point shooting is “aimed” by means other than your sights. Other indexes are used such as the slide orientation below your line of sight, shoulder alignment, wrist cant, and forearm positions are all used as aiming references. Hand-eye coordination is a premium when using point shooting techniques. The natural point-ability of the SIG P220 Carry SAO comes into its own in this realm. A flash sight picture was used in a couple of drills before the handgun was brought even lower from the line of sight eventually ending up with elbow anchored in hip socket.

The gun disassembles quickly typical of SIGs via locking the slide open and rotating the takedown lever downward on the frame freeing the slide from the frame. The quality of fit and finish speaks volumes as to how the P220 Carry SAO obtains such levels of accuracy without having to resort to full blown hand tuning custom work. There are no tool marks evident and no lateral play in the slide’s fit to the frame or barrel to slide. The barrel locks up tight when in battery. The P220 operates via Browning’s locked breech short-recoil method. SIG slightly modifies Browning’s design by moving the locking recess from the barrel; instead utilizing a single locking lug milled above the barrel’s chamber using the slide’s large overhead ejection port as its locking recess. The front contour of the barrel lug cam slot has been cut square to direct counter-recoiling forces up and forward into the barrel itself to reduce stress on the lug.

The fixed sights are typical three-dot type featuring tritium inserts providing a solid sight picture if in a hurry reacting to an adversary. This stems from more and more data showing defensive engagements happen in low-light conditions where the tritium sights are more conducive to accurate shot placement. The slide seemed to reciprocate on ball bearings it moved so smoothly with the sights tracking smoothly in between shots fired. Subsequent range visits have only reinforced these initial impressions.

One could argue the single-action only P220 product line is the natural evolution of the 1911 design and this gun is an obvious alternative to the 1911. The P220 Carry SAO is at a price point many custom tuned 1911 users can appreciate. 1911s capable of 2 inches at 25 yards accuracy combined with reliable functioning are available, but usually only after custom tweaking and price tags well over $2,000. P220 Carry’s ergonomics make it natural to shoot accurately and instantly instills confidence with how it stacks hits on targets that result in jagged holes. The SIG Sauer P220 Carry had no issues performing straight out of the box. No 500-round “break-in” period was needed. The first range session consisted of over 300 rounds without cleaning or any extra lubricate.

The P220 Carry was tested in various holster designs from DeSantis and Galco. Flexibility is the key to effective carry practices with Inside-the-Waistband (IWB), belt slide, Side-of-Back, and shoulder holsters all a part of a concealed carry practitioners repertoire. The SIG P220 Carry SAO rode comfortably in a Galco Quick Slide or DeSantis Mini-Slide belt holster. Quality holsters, magazine carriers, and gun belts are not to be underestimated in importance either. Single stack SIG 8-round and 10-roundd magazines ride close to the body in Galco dual magazine carrier mounted on a Galco leather belt. Single stack magazines are much easier to conceal than their thicker double column brethren. The SIG did not feel out of place or uncomfortable in a DeSantis Scorpion or Galco Royal Guard IWB holsters when carried for lengthy stretches of time while going about daily business. The DeSantis Patriot shoulder holster is another carry option based on user preference and concealment parameters.

The P220 Carry easily fits the concealed carry, personal defense, and tactical roles. For example, the P220 Carry equipped with an Insight Technology M6 LED Light on its forward rail is as good a “nightstand” handgun as there is. The oversized trigger guard and reasonable 5 pound trigger pull make the P220 Carry SAO conducive to use as a defensive handgun. Size comparison of the P220 Carry SAO to the Commander-sized 1911 should quell any malcontent concerns in this matter thinking the SIG is too large. The SIG Sauer P220 Carry SAO is ideal for anyone wanting to capitalize on the SIG Sauer reputation for out of the box reliability and accuracy combined with single action trigger for utmost trigger control for precise shot placement.

SITES OF INTEREST

DeSantis Holster and Leather Goods
431 Bayview Ave
Amityville, NY 11701
800-424-1236
www.desantisholster.com

Galco International
2019 West Quail Ave
Phoenix, AZ 85027
800-874-2526
www.usgalco.com

Insight Technology
9 Akira Way
Londonderry, NH 03053
866-509-2040
www.InsightTechnology.com

SIG Sauer, Inc.
18 Industrial Drive
Exeter, NH 03833
603-772-2302
www.sigsauer.com

Throughout the years, flashlights were considered a separate entity from firearms – something to be held in the other hand. Around the time U.S. military personnel entered combat operations in Somalia, troops began to realize it would be advantageous to have the flashlights mounted to the rifle to keep the other hand free to reload the weapon, clear malfunctions or whatever else might need be done. So, troops began to tape small flashlights to the handguards of their weapons. Two specific needs were shown at this point. One was a method to mount accessories to the rifle with some type of rail system. The other was a secure way to mount a flashlight amongst other accessories to the rifle. The first inspired A.R.M.S., Inc. to develop their Rigid Frame System (later evolved into the SIR) and C. Reed Knight, Jr. to introduce his first RIS (Rail Interface System) and later RAS (Rail Adapter System). With the final standardization of the Swan/Mil-Std-1913 rail and the then RIS system, now flashlights could be easily mounted to the handguards of the M16/M4 series of weapons.

In 1988, Insight was founded in a basement workshop. Early products were rail mounted lasers and illuminators. One of the first prestigious contracts for Insight Tech-Gear would come from a revolutionary program of the newly developed United States Special Operations Command.

Illumination 101

There are many applications for illumination in a tactical situation. It may be for illuminating an entire room, outdoor use where higher brightness is needed, or perhaps infrared for covert use. The most common form of light is incandescent. This consists of a bulb utilizing a filament. There are several variations of this type of bulb that make it brighter and have more life. Filament is fairly cheap making it easy to maintain. The filaments used with Xenon gas is somewhat less expensive than the LED (to be discussed later). The tint offered off of a filament bulb has a yellow-orangeish color to it making it a little friendlier for identifying features of a person at a quick glance. Probably the most serious downfall to the bulb is that when this type of power is utilized (70+ Lumens), the bulbs burn pretty hot – enough that if accidentally left on in a nylon bag, it could melt the nylon.

The other and growing popular illumination option is called LED or Light Emitting Diode. This technology became widely available in the late 1990s. This technology, although slightly more expensive, offers major benefits. The diode is much more durable with a life of 50 to 100,000 hours and the LED components are difficult to damage with external shock. LED has overtaken the efficiency standard of incandescent lighting systems. LEDs produce more light per watt than incandescent bulbs. The battery life is slightly better than the incandescent bulb and does not get anywhere near as hot. Due to these factors, it is not necessary to have back-up bulbs on hand. The LED has one minor trade off. They are more sensitive to malfunction under extreme ambient temperatures. There must be a proper heat-sink to maintain operating temperatures. The light from the LED is a bluish color. The bluish color can hide features of a person’s face as well as color of skin identification at a quick glance. Colors in general may be perceived differently with LED illumination that would not be altered with sunlight or incandescent illumination. However another incredibly useful use for the LED is target disorientation. When configured to do so, the LED can function in a strobing manner which when aimed at a target will disorient them and often will give just enough time to subdue the target before they can get their eyes refocused to do harm.

Insight Tech Gear Flashlights and Tactical Lights

Insight Tech Gear offers both incandescent as well as LED flashlights and tactical lights. Many models are manufactured of aluminum and are hard coat anodized for tough handling in all sorts of weather. Insight offers some different hand held LED flashlights. The H1X Proxima uses one Duracell Ultra (123) lithium battery with an LED output of 80 Lumens. This light is compact and could easily fit on one’s pocket or on a utility belt. The sample light put out an incredible amount of light for such a small package. The Proxima has settings for constant light, momentary as well as strobe capabilities. The H2X Arcturus is a rechargeable LED light. The H2X has an LED output of 120+ Lumens and the H3X Regulus has an astonishing 160+ Lumens of output. This model utilizes three Duracell Ultra (123) lithium batteries. All models have an activation button in the rear that activates and selects momentary, constant, strobe and dim settings. The LED flashlight provided for test and evaluation was the H3X Regulus. This LED flashlight can be held as a flashlight or placed on a mount and mounted to a rifle or any other type of long arm. There is a pressure activated button on the rear for moment or continuous illumination. The Regulus has settings for strobe, momentary, lock-out and continuous use of illumination. The LED output is 200+ Lumens of light and is powered by two 123 6volt batteries. The run time for the batteries is approximately 90 minutes on high power versus 400 hours on low power. The case of the light is made from aluminum alloy and is hard coat anodized to a black, tan or olive drab finish.

Additionally, the XTI Procyon is a module which will attach to the rail of a pistol or long arm which puts the LED into a tactical light. This gives a minimum LED output of 125 Lumens. A toggle switch on the rear allows the LED to perform in constant, momentary and strobe modes. There is a significant tactical application to the strobing features whether it be a LED in a flashlight configuration or weapons mounted. The strobing LED light will disorient a suspect for up to 2 seconds. This could take the place of a flashbang grenade (which serves the same purpose but on a much larger scale) under many entry circumstances. When taking a hostile suspect into custody, the strobing light could disorient them long enough to get them in cuffs and stop them from being a threat without the use of pepper spray or deadly physical force. The body is hard coat anodized aluminum for added strength. The rail interface is adjustable to fit any of the currently produced Mil-Std 1913 rails. The sample light was placed on a .45 Auto caliber Beretta Px4 pistol.

Insight has a host of various incandescent illumination lights. The M3 and M3X have a peak output of 90 and 125 Lumens respectively and can be attached to either a handgun or a long arm. This is as simple as switching the back plate. Pistol will utilize toggle steady-on or a contoured pistol remote back plate. For use with a long arm, a long gun back plate is used which has mode switch with three positions (off, mom and on). A pressure pad is plugged into the rear of the back plate.

The X2/X2L Series Xenon tactical light is designed to be installed on rails of sub compact pistols. The activation switch is a toggle style and is powered by a single CR2 3 volt battery. The peak output is 40+ Lumens.

The M2 UTL (Universal Tactical Light) was designed for H&K for use with their USP pistol. This mount is designed specifically for the USP pistol and utilizes two 123 6-volt batteries for a peak output of 90+ Lumens. This was the first rail-mounted tactical light in the industry that offered blinding illumination which was actuated by a single finger and was rail mounted and installed without tools.

The vast majority of the Insight Tech-Gear’s LE/military lines of lights are tactical lights. This means the lights are designed to be mounted on the firearm. There are models specifically for mounting the lights on handguns as well as ones which will mount on any Mil-Std 1913 rail.

The Laser Aiming Module (LAM)

After all U.S. special operations units were brought under one umbrella, one of their first programs in August of 1991 was the OHWS (Offensive Handgun Weapon System). Due to the numerous sidearms utilized by the operators, it was conceived as an offensive weapon system including a pistol, laser aiming module and a suppressor. The pistol part of the competition would come down to Colt and Heckler & Koch with H&K being the winner. The new pistol was designated the MK23 Mod 0.

Insight would be selected as the winner for the LAM (Laser Aiming Module). The LAM would have a focusable visible illuminator, an infrared aiming laser, visible aiming laser, infrared laser illuminator and would be powered by two 123 6-volt batteries. The visible laser is a <5 mW power with a wavelength of 640±40nm and the infrared laser is .05-.10 mW power and has a wavelength of 830±50nm. The Infrared Illuminating Laser has a .15 – .65 mW power and has a wavelength of 830±50nm. Infrared lasers and illumination lasers are used in conjunction with night vision devices. The benefit of this is that nobody other than those wearing the night vision devices will be able to see the laser pointer or the illumination. This is useful for a commander to point out a target to his team or to take out targets quickly and accurately in low level to complete darkness. The visible white light illuminator has a brightness of >60 Lumens.

The LAM weighs 5.0 ounces and has a dial on the left side of the unit to permit the user to select the mode that he wants to use. These modes are IR with IR Illuminator, IR laser pointer only, OFF, VIS laser and VIS laser with Illuminator. There is a toggle switch beneath the unit that with a slight push to the side will get momentary on and all the way to either side will get continuous on. The lasers are adjusted individually by an Allen head wrench. However, the unit comes with an integral adjuster tool which is stowed in the face of the unit above the white light source. At the time of the introduction of the Mk23 Mod 0, there was no standardized rail. H&K developed their own rail and the LAM would mount to the rail and held in place by a thumb screw.

Insight Tactical Laser Aimers/Pointers

Although first applied to handguns, these universal units were fitted to long arms as well. Lasers have proven themselves in both the law enforcement as well as military area of operations. Lasers have many applications. As an aiming device, it enables the user to hit targets from any position without having to use the sights. If a SWAT officer is standing behind a shield, he will be able to reach his firearm around the side of the shield and use the laser to aim. For target identification, commanders are able to mark targets for the team so everyone is after the same guy. Lasers can also be used as intimidation in order to diffuse a situation before deadly force is deployed. Sometimes just the appearance of that dot on the target will be enough for the target to surrender. Another important, but often overlooked application to lasers, is in training. The laser can help a firearms instructor to see what problems the student is having. The laser will not be zeroed to point of aim. The magazine will have dummy rounds randomly placed unknown to the shooter. When the dummy is attempted to fire, the laser will show the instructor if the student is jerking or pulling and to what side. This will assist in corrective action. Many modules combine the laser pointer with the white light source.

Insight initially designed the LAM that grew into several generations of laser and illuminators. The M6 and M6X laser illuminators consist of both a laser and a white light. The white light is a 90+ and 125+ Lumen output light respectively with a 640±40nm laser pointer. They can be used simultaneously or separately. The visible illumination can be focused by rotating the bezel and the laser is adjusted by an Allen key. The back plate is determined by whether the unit will be mounted on a pistol or a long arm. If the unit is to be mounted on a pistol, a back plate with a toggle will be used. Lightly pressing activates the momentary power and all the way continuous is activated. To mount on a long arm, the long arm back plate is utilized. This contains a switch with three positions (off, mom and on). The laser has another switch behind it with settings for off, visible laser, illumination only and visible laser and illumination simultaneously. A pressure pad is plugged into the rear of the back plate. The pressure pad is the attached to the vertical pistol grip of handguard. The sights can be attached either by a Mil-Std 1913 mount, a universal mount or a Rail-Grabber. Options also include Bikini filters in IR, red and opaque.

The X2 Laser tactical light and laser combination is designed to be installed on rails of sub compact pistols. The activation switch is a toggle style and is powered by a single CR2 3-volt battery. The peak output is 40+ Lumens. The laser is again activated with a toggle switch. The visible laser is a <5 mW power with a wavelength of 640±40nm. The laser point of impact is adjusted with an Allen key.

The LBS (Laser Borelight System)

This is one of those products that should be in any armory whether it is LE, military or gun shop. The sample provided for this article was put to use immediately and saves many rounds and a lot of time (especially on a freezing New York February day).

The LBS is a laser boresighting system that is used to boresight optics, lasers, as well as iron sights for 5.56mm, 7.62mm and .50 caliber firearms. This 4.5 ounce device is attached to a mandrel of the appropriate caliber bore and placed in the muzzle of the firearm. The activation dial has four settings (off, goggle, low and pulse). The goggle setting has the Borelight beam operate in a low power mode that is useful with night vision devices for night time zeroing. The low mode has the Borelight operate in a low power mode that is useful in low light conditions. The pulse setting allows the Borelight beam to turn on momentarily when the weapon is dry fired. The laser has a wavelength of 650±30 nm with a peak power of 0.9mW.

The provided test and evaluation M6X was boresighted with the LBS. The sight was placed on a SIR rail system on a Colt M4 carbine. The LBS was placed in the muzzle and the laser sight was adjusted to the boresight. At the range at 25 meters, the projectiles landed less than 1 inch to the left of the point of aim A couple of corrective clicks and done. The provided test and evaluation ISM-V (Integrated Sighting Module-Visible) was mounted on a LWRC M6A1 rifle and the LBS was used to boresight that unit as well. Both the laser and red dot on the ISM-V impacted a little more than an inch to the left at 25 meters. Another quick adjustment and done.

The Integrated Sighting Module

Red dot-type reflex sights have gained overwhelming popularity with military and law enforcement users. Currently, the most popular reflex sights are the AimPoint Comp2 and the new Comp 4 and the Trijicon ACOG reflex sight. The first uses batteries and the other is powered by a tritium lamp. Insight took an approach that uses both an optical reflex sight as well as a laser. Why not put both in one?

The ISM (Integrated Sighting Module) is just that, a combination of both a red dot (<2 MOA) reflex sight as well as a laser. The module fits onto any Mil-Std 1913 rail. Powered by a DL123 battery, the reflex sight features a red dot similar to that of the AimPoint Comp-series military reflex sights. The red dot can be made brighter or dimmer by adjusting the + and – buttons on top of the sight. There are a total of 18 brightness settings. The red dot is adjusted by elevation and windage adjustment screws. The battery life is approximately 1,500 hours for the red dot sight.

Also integrated into the unit is a laser sight. This red laser sight is simultaneously zeroed in when the red dot sight is so there is no need to zero them both. The laser can be activated with a button on the left side of the module or a remote switch can be plugged into the face of the unit. There are two models and the laser is the factor that differentiates between the two. The model provided for test and evaluation was the ISM-V, which the V stands for visible laser. The other model is the ISM-IR, which the IR stands for InfraRed. This model has both visible and IR lasers that are activated in the same manner. The ISM-IR has a switch on the rear of the unit that enables you to select either visible or IR mode. On the standard V model the selector has four settings (off, program, red dot and visible aim). The red dot is activated by pressing and releasing both the + and – buttons. To deactivate unit, press both buttons again. Your last brightness setting will be saved.

The test and evaluation unit was placed on a LWRC M6A1 5.56mm rifle: a piston operated variation of the M4 carbine. The unit was boresighted in at 25 yards with the LBS. When taken out for live fire at 25 yards the point of aim was 1 inch to the left. With a quick rotate of the windage, the weapon was zeroed in perfectly. After the red dot reflex sight was tested, the laser was then tested. As advertised, the laser was shooting to the exact point of aim as the redo dot. More than 500 rounds were fired in testing from several different positions in both semi and fully automatic fire. The sight remained point of aim throughout the shooting session. Off of a bench at 100 yards using Black Hills Mk262 Mod 1 ammunition, the rifle performed consistent 1-3/4 inch groups. The intensity of the red dot was decreased significantly to get a good aim point for accurate firing.

Tactical light, lasers as well as reflex sights have found their way into law enforcement, military as well as commercial weapons. Many companies are branching out to get into the market. Insight Technology has offered competitively priced top of the line products to serve all venues. They have several U.S. military contracts and their equipment is commonly used in the Global War on Terrorism. That is a tribute to the quality and confidence the end users have in their equipment.

Insight Tech Gear
23 Industrial Drive
Londonderry, NH 03053
Phone: (877) 744-4802
Fax: (603) 668-1084
Web: www.insightlights.com

Anzio Ironworks has just introduced their new compact .50 caliber single shot rifle. The new rifle is so compact that it can actually be stored and transported in a briefcase! The rifle is a quick take-down type but is very strong and also very accurate. The receiver is made from ETD 150 chrome-moly steel. It features a 17 inch Badger barrel as standard equipment but the rifle can be ordered with any length barrel. The 17 inch barrel is the only one that will allow the gun to be fitted into a briefcase. The barrels are 1 in 15 twist, cut rifled and hand lapped. The overall length of the assembled rifle is just 37 inches but in can be broken down to fit in a standard briefcase in less than 30 seconds. Other features of the Takedown .50 include a picatinny rail for mounting the users choice of optics, a Versa-Pod bipod and a fully adjustable trigger which can be adjusted down to around 2 lbs. One novel feature of the new rifle is the way it is cocked. The front of the pistol/trigger guard is merely rotated forward after the gun is loaded to cock it. The rifle weights 23.5 pounds without the bipod and comes standard with a blued finish. A baked-on moly-coat finish is available as an option as is a Haliburton briefcase and longer length barrels. The manufacturer guarantees that the new rifles will shoot under 1.5 moa out to 1000 yards. For more information contact Mike Remo at Anzio Ironworks Corp., Dept. SAR, 1905 16th Street, St. Petersburg, FL 33704. Phone: 1-717-895-2019. Fax: 1-727-827-4728. They are on the web at www. anzioironworks.com.

GG&G INTRODUCES WEAPON MOUNTS FOR THE M-3 LIGHT

The Insight Technology M-3 light has proven itself to be one of the finest weapon mounted lights around. Its light weight, powerfully bright light and rugged construction make it the light of choice for demanding professionals. The M-3 light was originally designed to interface only with handguns, such as the Glock. Now GG&G have introduced a series of M-3 mounts for several firearms. The first is a mounting rail for the Colt M-16/AR-15 series of rifles. The rail can be installed by the operator with basic hand tools or it can be purchased from GG&G already installed on a new set of standard M16A2 or M-4 handguards. This mounting rail retails for just $25.00. Next is GG&G’s M-3 rail for dovetail installation on such systems as the Knight Armament Company’s “RIS” or “RAS” M-4 forearms or the D.S. Arms rail units for the FN FAL series of rifles. This unit will also fit on standard “Weaver” type dovetails. The cost of this unit is $36.00. GG&G also manufactures two universal adapter rails for the M-3 Tactical Illuminator. The 1/2 inch concave (on the bottom surface of the mount) version will fit a wide range of firearms, such as the Benelli shotgun. The 3/4 inch convex model can also be used on a wide range of weapons including the Remington 870 shotgun. Both of these mounts sell for just $26.00 each. For more information on these or any of GG&G’s wide range of mounts contact GG&G, Dept. SAR, 3602 East 42nd Stravenue, Tucson, AZ 85713. Phone: 1-520-748-7167. Fax: 1-520-748-7583. Their website is www.gggaz.com.

WINCHESTER LAUNCHES NEW WEBSITE

Winchester Ammunition is pleased to announce the launch of their new, third generation web site at www.winchester.com. The new site features a detailed product catalog that provides content to assist visitors in selecting Winchester Ammunition. The website now includes ballistic detail on all of their ammunition. Additional site features are a press release section, law enforcement and industrial sections, retailer locator, new product section, library section and much more. The new site will also showcase old artwork from the Winchester archives. In addition to providing extensive information for Winchester customers, the site includes a Winchester store where consumers can purchase Winchester logo merchandise online. For more information check on the new website at www.winchester.com.

SPEC-OPS NEW READY-FIRE MODE MAGAZINE POUCH

Best Made Designs, LLC, has just introduced another product in the Spec-Ops line. The new product is called the Ready-Fire Mode magazine pouch. The new mag pouch fits the buttstock of several different assault rifles; AR-15/M-16, Mini-14, AR-10 etc. The new pouch is made of 1000 denier Cordura fabric nylon and quickly attaches to the host weapon with Velcro straps. Once in place it provides the shooter with a mag pouch for either a 20 or 30 round spare magazine. The pouch is forward opening with pull-tab cover flap of positive magazine retention but quick access. The difference between this and other buttstock mag pouches is that the Ready-Fire Mode incorporates a rear mounted sling attachment point that allows the rifle to be carried in the Ready-Fire Mode! The Ready-Fire Mode works with the weapon’s standard sling and can be attached or removed in seconds. For more information on this great new product contact Best Made Designs, L.L.C., Dept S.A.R. 1601 W. 15th Street, Monahans, TX 79756. Phone: 1-915-943-4888. Fax: 1-915-943-5565. They can be found on the web at www.specopsbrand.com.

COLUMBIA RIVER KNIFE AND TOOL INTRODUCES “1*” KNIFE

Columbia River Knife and Tool had recently introduced the new M16 “LE” and “M” knives with Gary Paul Johnsons “1*” logo on them. Gary designed the logo-1* (one ass-to-risk) while he was with the Shakers Heights Police Department. It was designed as a reminder to those who go in harms way to be careful out there. Gary granted CRKT the exclusive right to use his “1*” logo on special models of its folding and fixed blade knives. Identical in construction to their popular original M16, the new models offer the same sure-grip contoured handles of 6061 T6 aluminum, hard anodized in Law Enforcement blue for the LE models and Olive Drab for the M series. The stainless steel locking liners with friction grooves are also black Teflon plated, and give positive locking with limited access for superior safety. The new knives have AUS 8 stainless steel blades, chosen for edge retention and durability, plated in black non-reflective Teflon. All models feature the “Carson Flipper” extension to the blade, which aids in opening and acts as an additional blade guard. For more information on the M16 1* Knife Line contact Columbia River Knife and Tool, Dept. SAR, 9720 S.W. Hillman Ct., Suite 805, Wilsonville, OR 97070. Phone: 1-503-685-5015. Fax: 1-503-682-9680. Website: www.crkt.com.