Eurosatory 2008 was held at the Parc des Expositions, located outside of Paris, France on June 16 – 20, 2008. As one of the largest tradeshows in the world dedicated to the international arms trade, nearly 1.3 million square feet of exhibition space was filled by 1,180 exhibitors from 51 countries, including 127 exhibitors from the United States. Approximately 50,000 individuals from over 145 countries attended the show. Of note were several new product releases and market trends from well known and lesser known manufacturers.

Forjas Taurus S/A

Taurus S/A of Brazil (not to be confused with Taurus International, the U.S. based firearm company) introduced a new submachine gun manufactured under joint venture with FAMAE of Chile. Based upon technology from Swiss Arms AG (formerly SIG Arms AG) of Switzerland, the external profile borrows heavily from the SIG 550 series of firearms.

The model MT9 (chambered in 9mm) and the model MT40 (chambered in .40 S&W) utilizes a blowback design, and is capable of semiautomatic, burst, and fully automatic fire. The Taurus representatives indicated that the 9mm version has a cyclic rate of 1,300 rounds per minute, while the .40 S&W version fires at a claimed 1,200 rounds per minute. Both models utilize a 200 mm barrel (7.8 inches), and a 30-round magazine.

The receiver and internal components are reportedly manufactured by FAMAE of Chile, and imported into Brazil for the manufacture of barrels, magazines, and buttstocks prior to final assembly. Currently marketed to Brazilian law enforcement, the firearm appeared to be well designed and comfortable. Sales are currently limited to the South American market, and there are currently no plans to import either model into the United States. Additional information can be found at the Forjas Taurus S/A website, www.taurus.com.br.

ST Kinetics

ST Kinetics of Singapore introduced a new 9mm submachine gun called the Compact Personal Weapon. With a 7-inch barrel, the firearm utilizes delayed blowback operation, allowing a claimed cyclic rate of 900 rounds per minute. With a loaded 30-round magazine, the firearm weighs 2 kg (4.4 pounds). While not an overt copy of a Heckler and Koch MP-7, the CPW does appear to borrow heavily from the Heckler and Koch predecessor. Both utilize an outwardly similar design, with similar locations and layout of fire control mechanisms, and a similarly designed retracting stock.

Unlike the Heckler and Koch MP-7, the CPW claims caliber modularity, allowing users to change the caliber of the weapon by utilizing a different barrel and magazine. No caliber conversions were available for examination nor were specific caliber conversions specified.

ST Kinetics also introduced a single barreled, three-round 40mm grenade launcher allowing semi-automatic fire capability. The system is based upon the Metal Storm theory of operation, allowing all three rounds to be loaded within the barrel, yet allow each round to be fired individually. Adaptable to multiple applications, the launcher can be mounted under a combat rifle via M-1913 Picatinny rails, as a stand alone launcher, or grouped with multiple launchers and mounted on a heavy platform.

Reloading the 40mm grenade launcher is accomplished in two ways. According to ST Kinetics, individual rounds are loaded in a similar manner as conventional 40mm grenade launchers. Alternatively, a spent barrel can be removed and replaced with a pre-loaded barrel (loaded with three rounds per barrel) during the reloading process. ST Kinetics claims the new grenade launcher will act as a force multiplier, allowing an increased number of rounds down range in a shorter period of time, without increasing the number of weapons an individual soldier must carry. More information can be found at the Metal Storm website, at http://www.metalstorm.com.

FN Herstal

FN Herstal of Belgium announced that the SCAR family of rifles will be available for sale on the international market. Originally designed and developed for the U.S. Special Operations Command, the two highly adaptable modular rifles, the SCAR-L (chambered in 5.56x45mm), the SCAR-H (chambered in 7.62x51mm), and the FN40GL 40mm low velocity grenade launcher will presumably be available for international sale. No information was available from FNH, USA regarding a semiautomatic-only version for domestic U.S. sales. Additional information may be found on the FN Herstal website, located at http://www.fnherstal.com.

Martin Electronics, Inc.

Martin Electronics, Inc. (MEI) announced the introduction of the Mercury, a family of medium velocity 40mm grenades. Current low-velocity 40mm grenades have a maximum range of approximately 300 meters, while longer range high velocity 40mm grenades require a heavy firing platform, and are usually limited to vehicle or tripod mounted applications. The Mercury family of 40mm grenades can be launched from current low-velocity 40mm grenade launchers with only minimal increase in recoil, while extending maximum range to 800 meters.

Milkor South Africa

Milkor, most famously known for their 40mm Mk 1 multiple grenade launchers introduced a 40mm break action, single shot pistol for use with crowd control and less-lethal 40mm rounds. Developed from an existing Milkor-designed 37mm pistol, and equipped with a 130mm (5.1 inch) smooth bore barrel, the pistol is double-action only. Given the short barrel length, the effective range of the pistol is only 100 meters, but given the intended use as a riot control weapon, an extended range is not required. In terms of safety, high explosive 40mm rounds may be fired from the pistol, however the lack of barrel rifling will result in an HE round failing to arm. Why build a 40mm pistol? Representatives from Milkor indicated that in a riot control situation, the user would have the ability to fire less-lethal ammunition and holster the pistol. In this manner, the 40mm pistol would be less cumbersome that a larger rifle sized weapon of equal caliber. It is unknown as of press time whether Milkor-USA will offer the 40mm pistol to U.S. customers. Additional information may be found at the Milkor website, www.milkor.net.

Developments in 20mm rifles

Multiple man-portable 20mm anti-material rifles were present, with two worthy of note. First, Truvelo Manufacturing of South Africa introduced a 20mm x 110 (20mm Hispano-Suiza) caliber bolt action rifle. Known most notably as the manufacturer of the Neostad shotgun, Truvelo claims its rifle is accurate to within 2.5 minutes-of-angle, allowing users to hit a 15-inch radius target at 600 yards. Reportedly weighing in at 55 pounds, the rifle has a retail price of $36,000.

Similarly, the Republic of Croatia also introduced a partially recoilless 20mm x 110 caliber bolt action rifle. Weighing 17 kg (37.5 pounds) the rifle utilizes a gas port to vent and direct propellant gases to the rear of the shooter. Overall length totals 133 cm, (52 inches) and has a claimed maximum range of 2 km (1.24 miles). Additional information on this rifle was not available as of press time.

Tsniitochmash Central Institute of Precision Machinery

Tsniitochmash of Russia displayed a modified Russian PKM machine gun, re-named the Pecheneg Light Machine Gun. Like its PKM predecessor, the Pecheneg is chambered in 7.62x54R, but boasts a re-designed barrel equipped with cooling fins. According to Tsniitochmash representatives, the newly designed cooling fins are highly efficient, greatly increasing the number of rounds that can be fired, and eliminating the need for a spare barrel. The Pecheneg weighs 17 pounds empty, and is capable of firing 600 rounds per minute, and has an effective range of 1,500 meters.

Tsniitochmash also displayed the famed Russian SPP-1M underwater pistol and APS underwater assault rifle. Representatives explained that both models were again in production, and available for worldwide sale. See Small Arms Review Vol. 12, No. 2, November 2008 for an in-depth review on the Tsniitochmash underwater guns. Additional information can be found at www.Tsniitochmash.ru

Vinghog Simrad Optronics Group

Known for their light-weight weapon mounts, Vinghog AS of Norway demonstrated the IS2000, an integrated programmable range finder, ballistic computer, and weapon sight in a single package. Intended for 40mm AGL and .50 caliber weapon platforms, the weapon sight allows users to effectively compute distance to target, while automatically adjusting the aiming point for range, elevation, and lead angle correction. The system is night-vision compatible, with either 1-power or 3.5-power magnification. At 3.5 power magnification, the system provides an eleven-degree field of view. Datum for multiple types of ammunition is provided within the system, providing accurate aiming points for nearly any type of ammunition that may be encountered.

Demonstration of the unit confirmed the robust and accurate nature of the system. Mounted on an Mk-19 40mm automatic grenade launcher, the system effectively provided the range to a steel silhouette target placed approximately 350 meters from the firing line. With point of aim automatically adjusted within the sight, the aiming point was placed center of target, resulting in a first round hit on the silhouette. Recognizing that the Mk-19 is usually intended as an area target weapon, the Vinghog sight allowed for effective use of the Mk-19 in a point target application. Additional information may be found online at www.vinghog.com.

Pakistan Ordnance Factory

Pakistan Ordnance Factory (more commonly known in the U.S. as “POF”) introduced two new rifles for international sale. Each rifle appears to utilize a Heckler and Koch Model 91 type receiver, with magazines modified for each the appropriate caliber in each application. Both rifles claim parts commonality with the Heckler and Koch MP-5 and G-3 rifles.

The PK-7, chambered in 7.62 x 39 is a near copy of an early Heckler and Koch model 52. Equipped with a 10.5-inch barrel, the weapon utilizes a thirty-round curved magazine, with outward appearances to a Kalashnikov-based magazine. Both rifle and magazine appeared to be robust, with a claimed loaded weight of 8 pounds. The PK-7 utilizes a 30-round magazine, and has a 700 – 800 round per minute claimed rate of fire.

The PK-8 rifle is chambered in 5.56×45 NATO (.223 Remington), with a 700 round per minute claimed rate of fire. Unlike the Heckler and Koch Model 93 rifle, the PK-8 presents a novel approach to converting an existing G-3 type receiver to fire the smaller 5.56 round. From outward appearances, the PK-8 is very similar to the Heckler and Koch Model 93, complete with two push pins for disassembly. Upon closer examination, the PK-8 magazine is a unique magazine to the weapon system, utilizing a hybrid design of the G-3 upper magazine contour and the HK-93 lower magazine contour. Typical HK-93 magazines will not lock into place on the PK-8, while typical G-3 magazines will not reliably feed 5.56 rounds. While novel in approach, the new design is not a quick change caliber conversion. Rather, the PK-8 appears to allow the manufacture of a 5.56 rifle while utilizing existing tooling intended for the manufacture of the G-3 rifle.

Representatives from POF expressed an interest in exporting a semiautomatic version of both rifles to the United States, however at the time of the interview no U.S. imports were scheduled or planned.

Eurosatory 2008 was a great success, and offered a glimpse into the international arms market. Hosted on a biennial basis, the next show is scheduled for June 14 – 18, 2010, in Paris, France. Additional information regarding the show can be found at www.eurosatory.com.

American Tactical Imports Introduces MP-5 Look-A-Like in .22

American Tactical is the exclusive U.S. importer of the GSG (German Sports Guns). The GSG-5 is a world innovation, the first semi-automatic small caliber rifle in the legendary design of the MP-5. The GSG-5 is a .22 Long Rifle High Velocity Caliber gun with an overall length of 26.7 inches. The rifle has a 22 round magazine capacity and weighs just 4.9 pounds. The gun features a shrouded barrel that resembles an MP-5SD. Other features include an ambidextrous safety/selector, adjustable sights, paddle magazine release and built-in “notches” for scope mounting. The gun combines the high-technology, reliability and appeal of the H&K MP-5 submachine gun series with the tactical accessories mount so popular these days. At a MSRP of $499.95, the GSG-5 is perfect for plinking, varmint or small game hunting. Watch for an in depth test on this new .22 in an upcoming issue of SAR. For more information, please contact them at American Tactical Imports, Dept. SAR, 100 Airpark Drive, Rochester, NY 14626. Phone: (800) 290-0065. Fax: (585) 328- 4168. Their website can be visited at www.americantactical.us.

Rainier Arms Introduces Enhanced Magazine for the P-Mag

Rainier Arms has teamed up with Gaylean Tactical to bring you the EMG (Enhanced Magazine Grip). The EMG was designed specially for the channels of the MagPul P-Mag and provides superior grip on the magazine. This allows for faster reloads when speed matters most. The EMG rubberized textured panel features an industrial strength adhesive with pressure application that adheres stronger the harder you press. The EMG can also be used on USGI magazines as well as any other mission critical item that needs superior grip. The new EMG comes in three configurations: front only with 12 front panels, Basic Kit with 24 side panels and Full Kit with 12 front and 24 side panels. Installation is simple; clean the magazine, press the panels in place and you’re done. For more information or to place an order please contact Rainier Arms, Dept. SAR, P.O. Box 5786, Kent, WA 98064. Phone: (253) 218-2999. Fax: (253) 218-2998. Their website is www.rainierarms.com.

Buffer Technologies Introduces New Buffer for SIG P229

Responding to demands from law enforcement professionals, Buffer Technologies recently introduced an addition to its extensive line of recoil buffers. The newest member of the buffer family is for the SIG P229. Like Buffer Technologies’ other SIG and Beretta buffers, the SIG P229 includes a new stainless steel guide rod with a high-density, shock-absorbing polyurethane buffer. The factory spring is retained. The stainless steel rod is a stronger, non-corrosive improvement over factory rods. Recoil buffers eliminate the metal-to-metal impact of the slide as it hits the frame. Over time, this continued force and impact can weaken the slide and jar internal workings of the gun, which can lead to cracks or potential malfunction. Law enforcement weapons can get heavy use, so the SIG line of buffers can help extend service life. The Buffer Technologies SIG P229 recoil buffer retails for $24.95 – a cost less than half that of many other after-market buffer products. The company also offers buffers to fit SIG 220 and 226 models, including the 9mm, .357SIG, .40 S&W and .45 ACP. Recoil buffers also are available for the Ruger 10/ 22, Ruger Mini-14/30, M1A/M14, FN/ FAL L1A1, SKS, HK G3/91 93, Model 1911 and clones, MAC-10/11 and all Kalashnikov-style weapons. For more information contact them at Buffer Technologies, Dept. SAR, P.O. Box 105047, Jefferson City, MO 65110. Phone: (573) 34-8520. Fax: (573) 634-8522. Website: www.buffertech.com.

Taurus Introduces Their New 800 Series Pistols

Derived from the company’s popular Taurus OSS model designed for U.S. Armed Forces, this new series of pistols boasts many new customer requested features including an added external hammer. The 800 Series, available in .45 ACP, .40 cal. and 9mm, features Taurus’ industry changing Strike Two capability. Firing normally from single action mode, if the primer ever fails to ignite, the gun reverts to double action mode to provide a potentially life-saving second or third try at a faulty cartridge. Research indicates an 88 percent or better chance the round will fire on re-strike. The pistol will then automatically revert back to single action mode. When field stripping the 800 Series, which is achieved quickly with unique take-down levers, users will be impressed with the firearm’s rugged construction including a forged slide and captured recoil spring with stainless steel guide rod. These components help create incredibly balanced spring pressure that allow for record-setting cycle times capable of firing ten rounds in under a second.

The series also features true ambidextrous magazine release buttons and extended magazine bumpers that double as a finger rest and helps prevent damage to the magazine when ejected in rapid-fire situations. Included with each firearm are three of Taurus’ exclusive magazines, which fit into guided wells for record-setting reload times. Each magazine is double stacked for hi-capacity and features witness holes for easy round count. The 800 Series offers ultimate exclusive protection with three internal safeties, unnoticed by the shooter when firing. True ambidextrous safety and decock lever allows the user to leave a live round in the chamber and safely decock or leave a round in the chamber and apply the safety with the left or right hand. The series also comes standard with a visual loaded chamber indicator and the unique Taurus Security System that allows users to securely lock the gun using an inconspicuous onboard key-lock. Each caliber is available in either blue or stainless steel. For more information please contact Taurus International Manufacturing, Inc., Dept. SAR, 16175 Northwest 49th Avenue, Miami, FL 33014. Phone: (306) 624-1115. Fax: (305) 623- 7506. You can visit their website at www.taurususa.com.

GunTec USA Introduces New AR-15/M16 Armorers Wrench

A new combination Armorer’s Wrench for the AR-15/M16 series of rifles has just been introduced by GunTec USA. This new wrench combines many of the functions necessary for anyone building or repairing an AR-15 or M16 rifle. It is a two sided wrench. At one end, it attaches either multi-point or peg style barrel nuts on barrels up to 1 inch in diameter, and a torque wrench can fitted into the 1/2 inch square slot opening. This wrench also works well with installing free floating handguards. The other end fits CAR/M4 stock locking nuts, and a large flat head screwdriver blade is also included for use on full-size A2 buttstock screws. The two other slots on the wrench fit A1 and A2 birdcage flash hiders and receiver extensions. The wrench features all steel construction, is heat treated and has a parkerized finish. The wrench is 13 inches long and weighs just 1 pound 5 ounces. For more information or to place an order, please contact GunTec USA, Dept. SAR, P.O. Box 12731, Scottsdale, AZ 85267. Phone: (480) 518-5359. They can be found at: www.tacticalaccessories.com.

Spikes Tactical Introduces Two New Products

Spikes Tactical has just introduced two new long awaited products. The first is their new STZ “HAVOC” 37mm flare launcher. This new launcher features the latest in design and manufacturing technology. Parts are CAD designed and CNC machined from solid billet material rather than the typical stamped and welded construction of other launchers. The 6061 T-6 aircraft grade aluminum components are anodized in a non-glare matte black finish for maximum durability and ease of maintenance. This color also matches most AR finishes perfectly. Additional components are built from 1018 cold rolled steel and plated with a mil-spec black oxide finish. The proprietary STZ push button cylindrical breech lock design is three times stronger than existing lever locking systems. The HAVOC is designed to mount on any rail system that is carbine length or longer. Installation simply requires sliding the launcher onto the bottom rail of the handguard and tightening two set-screws which are included. The HAVOC also features a one piece launcher tube and hand grip design for the ultimate in strength. The launcher has an extended tube opening which will accept even the 5 3/4 inch long cased USCG approved munitions. Retail price of this new launcher is just $299.

The other new product from Spikes is their SL-15 lower receivers for AR-15 rifles. These new receivers are fully machined from forged 7075 T-6 aircraft quality aluminum and have a very durable black anodized finish. What really sets these lowers off from others is that they can be ordered with pictogram bullet markings. They are available with just safe and fire markings or also with safe, fire and fullauto markings. Spikes also offers color filled markings for a very unique look. Specially marked lowers can also be ordered on a custom basis. The fit and finish on these lowers is first rate. For more information on these or the full line of other AR uppers, lowers and accessories, please contact then at Spikes Tactical, Dept. SAR, 2593 Clark Street, Suite 103, Apopka, FL 32703. Phone: (407) 928-2666. Fax: (866) 283-2215. Their website is www.spikestactical.com.