This exceptional bayonet is currently in use by special units of the Italian Army; most notably the ‘Nibbio’ contingent in Afghanistan. They much preferred carrying Extrema Ratio’s ‘Fulcrum’ fixed blades as their primary issue knife. From there, they pressed Extrema Ratio to develop the same knife into an issue bayonet to reduce weight and excess gear. Extrema Ratio responded by creating a bayonet/knife/tool system that became even more versatile by the addition of a wire cutter as well as the availability of a mine probe tool.

The bayonet has always been associated with military long guns and has often been illustrated in field manuals and considered part of the necessary kit for the fighting firearm. This example is designed for the AR-15/M16/M4 family of weapons. The first thing you will notice upon inspection of this unit is the precision fit of the bayonet to the rifle. There is no excess of movement or waggle when the rifle is maneuvered with zeal.

The overall package, i.e. knife in sheath, is designed to make a slim modular profile in accordance with the current demand that manufacturers account for every ounce in order to make each individual soldier’s combat load lighter and more maneuverable. Most bayonets are of a nominal size, about the span of a common hunting knife; however this is a magnum knife with an overall length of 12.2 inches (310mm). The obvious need for extensive design work was evident, so that the whole package melded with the cadre to become part of the complete trooper. Extrema Ratio has rivaled one of the most revered of bayonets – the legendary Eickhorn model, standard equipment of the fabled Cadillac Gage Stoner 63A – to become one of the most capable issue bayonets of the new millennium.

Cut from a .25 inch (6.3mm) thick slab of N690 Stainless Cobalt Steel hardened to 58 HRC, the 7.09 inch (180mm) long blade is capped with a milled pommel fashioned from AISI 316L Stainless Steel that supplies the aft mount for the M4 carbine. The front mount is machined from AISI 316L Stainless Steel flat stock and also serves as a front hand-guard to protect the hand from sliding forward onto the cutting edge of the blade, were the hand to become slippery. The removable-for-cleaning fiberglass reinforced Forprene handle insulates flesh from electrical shock if you happen to employ the wire-cutter feature on an electrified defense. The accompanying polimeric sheath also works with the Forprene to insulate the hands while working. The design of the Forprene handle addresses the ergonomics of adaptability to the human hand under stressful conditions to index the cutting edge to the operator, so that in low light to dark, the cadre always is aware of exactly where the cutting edge is.

The cutting surfaces of the knife blade are uniquely multifaceted to supply exceptionally sharp edges to the top, the leading edge, the bottom straight edge, as well as a section, toward the choil, of a serrated edge for cutting rope or line. This makes for a truly versatile tool. A bayonet aids in many other tasks such as preparation of foodstuffs and cutting up kindling for a fire. The main straight edge is capable of a plethora of slicing and dicing chores. This leaves the front edges to cut cleaning patches for your weapon or to press into service as a combat knife. Remember that this bayonet pattern was originally taken from Extrema Ratio’s flagship design, the Fulcrum, and is an extremely capable combat tactical knife in its own right.

Extrema Ratio has made an additional relief cut on the spine of the knife to reduce overall weight without sacrificing lateral strength and also to bring the point of balance to a neutral position preferred by most knife makers: the hilt or hand-guard. Inside of this relief resides the Extrema Ratio Marquee and the type of steel (N690 Cobalt Stainless) used in the manufacture of the bayonet.

All of the metal surfaces are impregnated with a non-reflective flat black wear-resistant finish to reduce the chance of corrosion afield. The entire bayonet can be disassembled for cleaning and maintenance. The Forprene handle can slide off of the blade itself should the operator desire to fashion an improvised spear for fishing or hunting duties. This it does admirably with just the correct amount of heft and a sharp edge for a quick, efficient kill. An Allen wrench is hidden in the Velcro sheath webbing to assist in the disassembly/reassembly of the bayonet.

Extrema Ratio was one of the very first knife manufacturers to use N690 Stainless Cobalt Steel for their blade steel. This steel has proven to be exceptional in durability, flexibility and toughness. It is comprised of Carbon (1.07%), Chrome (17.00%), Cobalt (1.50%), Manganese (0.40%), Molybdenum (1.10%), Silicium (0.40%), and Vanadium (0.10%). N690 is martensistic special steel that differs from AISI 440C in that it carries double the amount of molybdenum. The use of molybdenum is significant because it bears improved cutting features and adds a strong resistance to corrosion. For this superior steel, Extrema Ratio purchases only from a small, specialized manufacturer in Austria known for their uncompromising quality. Overall, N690 features high resistance to corrosion and wear, maintains a sharp cutting edge longer, and polishes to a brilliant degree. It can also reach a higher hardness level through thermic tempering that eclipses 440C considerably. Thanks to oxidation resistance and its ability to hold an edge, it is often preferred by the medical industry for surgical tools and by the food industry for food preparation.

One of the most fascinating aspects of the Prato, Italy-based manufacturer is the amount of research and product development that goes into every knife or tool that leaves this maker. Working closely with the Faculty of Motorial Sciences of the University of Perugia, they were able to explore the ergonomics of these tools and how they relate to the end users. They also maintain a close relationship with the Faculty of Engineering at the University of Florence where they conduct structural, materials and coating analyses. They were even able to determine side load strength that revealed this Fulcrum style bayonet could survive loads of over 150 kg without breaking. The cadre of the ‘Nibbio’ contingent use their bayonets aggressively, often driving them into rock crevasses in Afghanistan to employ them as makeshift steps so that they might successfully scale the mountain. Every facet of these knives have been tested far beyond the normal rigors, hence the firm’s name Extrema Ratio, meaning literally Extreme Measures. Founded in 1997, they are certified ISO 9001, as well as being part of the Armed Forces supplier’s listings: NATO CODE (N/Cage): A D 856.

The bayonet is admirably coupled with its rigid ABS composite plastic sheath to form an improvised barbed wire cutter that is capable of defeating all but the largest of fence wire. The bayonet locks securely onto the corresponding lug on the sheath and the movement of the cutter is smooth, tight and unhampered. Many cutters formed on some of the European-Asian bayonets have sufficient slop in their anvils that it becomes obviously pointless to continue trying to gnaw your way through the wire. Not so with the Extrema Ratio, where the close progression of the cutter through its arc severs neatly the fence wire in one fluid stroke without hesitation or wobble. This is essential in a tool of this description that everything works with flawless precision. Sending a ripple down through stretched fencing while you haphazardly chew at the wire with an inferior tool could lead to an untimely demise.

The ABS sheath fits down into a Cordura pouch and harness assembly that attaches the knife and sheath to elastic leg straps that ensures that the bayonet system is jump-qualified. The lug straps hug the bayonet closely to the thigh without any undue movement or travel. The pouch part of the harness protects the barb wire cutter anvil so that it doesn’t become a snag at an inopportune moment. Four snaps secure the bayonet and sheath into the harness with an easy access strap at the top. This system is secure without being bulky as it has all been skeletonized to streamline the operator’s basic working equipment load.

Bayonets have quite a lore about them and, as many things that are made for the military, they are available in a variety of finishes: white for snowy terrain, green for woodland, tan for sandy terra and even gold plating for parade dress. The vibrant color schemes are carried out through to the leg straps for a more thorough and complete set of terrain specific gear. The cadre are the most important; the better the gear adapts the operator to the terrain he or she is working in, the better the soldier will be protected to complete the mission. Modern day equipment has come full circle. 60s-70s technology was to produce a basic quality piece of gear like the Eickhorn Stoner 63A bayonet and then the operator adapted to the bayonet, i.e., performed with its strengths and ignored, overlooked and compensated for its weaknesses or lack of detail. The Extrema Ratio Fulcrum bayonet is representative of today’s latest interpretation of modern day equipment. It was developed as to have virtually zero defects. It relates to the operator and is truly is an exceptional piece of gear.

While the example depicted here is fitted for the AR-15/M16/M4 family of weapons, Extrema Ratio has proven that their bayonet is truly international with fitment on request for the Beretta SC/SCP, Heckler & Koch G3 and G36, FAMAS, Steyr AUG, FN FAL, SIG 550 and the Kalashnikov AK series.

Extrema Ratio s.S.S.
Via Turcoing, 40/P
59110 Prato (PO) Italy
Telephone: 39-0574-584639
Fax: 39-0574-561312
www.extremaratio.com

by Timothy Kast

Every shooter, at some time or other, requires really good gun oil. With the wide array of products on the market, the question becomes, which one? There are always adequate oils for everyday shooting chores, and another fancier grade for collector guns, then a different choice altogether for military weapons. Wouldn’t it be nice to chuck them all for one central quality lube that worked well on everything?

I was first introduced to TW-25B while on board one of Naval Special Warfare’s Mark Vs. While the crew was preparing the boat, the weapon’s chief was mounting the Ma Deuce Brownings and the 40mm grenade launchers in the aft pintles. After settling each gun into its mount, they would go over the entire firearm using a strange white grease and an aerosol spray of gun oil. The spray was unusual in that it dried to a matte, or dry finish, whereas most gun aerosols leave a shiny, wet residue on everything. Upon returning to the slip, I examined the parkerized finish on the weapons. To my surprise, the ocean’s salt water was beaded up on the barrels as if they had been waxed. On removal, a quick wipe-down was all that was needed before securing the weapons. That crew had been using TW-25B.

TW-25B is a non-corrosive, non-flammable and non-toxic lubricant that is unaffected by climatic conditions, dust and sand particles, or salt water. It has shown to eliminate galling in stainless steel, and has been proven to reduce carbon, copper, and lead build-up. It is ideal for black powder and military corrosive powders. It was developed to fulfill the rugged challenges of extreme environmental conditions while greatly enhancing the load bearing capability of the treated surface. Every instance where another lube had done an adequate job, TW-25B markedly excelled in that same scenario. I have routinely used WD-40 to coat freshly parkerized gun parts after refinishing. WD-40 is inexpensive and sold nearly everywhere. I have found, however, that TW-25B seals the open pores of the metal more efficiently so recoating is less of an issue. Where other lubes evaporate or wear off, TW-25B remains in place, especially in adverse conditions.

Reassembly of parkerized parts is made easier when the components have a thin coat of the TW-25B grease applied throughout the reassembly process. This is especially true when the firearm in question is being stored away for long periods of time. Corrosion is nonexistent when used in place of cosmoline or heavy grease. Cosmoline usually requires a lengthy cleaning regimen, whereas a gun treated with TW-25B can be pressed into service without further attention.

Barrels have often been the subject of controversy. Some people advise against the use of a petroleum based product on the bore of a barrel; yet neglect, rust and corrosion can easily pit a bore beyond salvage. The instructions for TW-25B recommend using this product in the bore. The manufacturer states that it will improve bore accuracy and actually increase muzzle velocity. I have personally used the spray on a clean patch run through the bore, and on guns that will be stored. I lightly lubricate a patch or mop with the TW-25B grease, then gently pass it through the bore. Naturally, as with any final exercise such as cleaning and lubricating a firearm, you would want to check the finished bore with a bore light to confirm a clean and unobstructed barrel. It is very long-lasting and will not freeze, wash off, or even burn off in between cleanings.

As a smith, I have observed that an alarming amount of malfunctioning firearms can be traced to a lack of lubrication on the moving parts of the gun. Magazines are often the most neglected. Take the floor-plate off a number of magazines and you will find a rusty, corroded mess. Neglecting lubrication for fear of attracting grit or sand, they can seize from a number of different causes including dried perspiration, rainwater, and surprisingly, grit. TW-25B when sprayed onto the magazine spring, the inside of the mag body and the follower will impart a dry film of lubrication that will prevent malfunctions. The outside of the magazine can also benefit from an application of this lubricant to make this part of your firearm more weather resistant.

In various discussions concerning gun lubes, many enthusiasts ask how long have you used a particular product and been pleased with it, and what type of scenarios have you used it in? My experience with TW-25B spans approximately seven years or more. I have employed it as both a spray, and a grease, in almost every conceivable manner within the firearms industry. It is particularly adept as a penetrant to access areas that a regular lube could not be worked into. It dries to a flat finish that will repel rain, sweat or salt water and can be restored simply by wiping with a paper towel or shop rag. The grease can be used on exterior surfaces of a parkerized firearm as a final seal in inclement weather. It has wide operating temperature range that encompasses -90° to + 450° Fahrenheit. Lubrication occurs microscopically, so there is penetration to the metal pores of the gun. Petro-Lubricant Testing Labs in Wharton, New Jersey repeatedly certified TW-25B to qualify under the United States Navy’s stringent FTM-4001 Test. This test, which requires the lubricant to be applied to a steel plate and subjected to a 5% salt fog for 500 hours, resulted in no rust and no corrosion. The superior properties of TW-25B have been discovered and specified by a number of military contractors and firearms experts worldwide, including the US Army Missile Command, US Army Special Forces, US Navy, US Navy SEALs, US Marine Corps, FBI Academy, Royal Canadian Mounted Police, the Gunsite Academy, Fabrique Nationale, Sigarms, Glock, Raytheon, United Defense, Dillon Aero, Knights Armament, General Dynamics Armament Division, Colt Mfg., Olympic Arms, Oto Melara, Para Ordnance Mfg., Sig Sauer & Son, Smith & Wesson and throughout law enforcement. TW-25B is formally specified for military use under the Defense Logistic Agencies National Stock Number (NSN). The sponsoring of those NSNs was pressed forward by the United States Navy. The National Stock numbers are listed below.

TW-25B (syringe)
NSN 9150-01-448-2266

TW-25B (1.5 oz. tube)
NSN 9150-01-439-0859

TW-25B (4 oz tube)
NSN 9150-01-439-1873

TW-25B (16 oz caulking tube)
NSN 9150-01-439-1864

TW-25B (16 oz zerk tube)
NSN 9150-01-439-0857

TW-25B (16.9 fl. oz spray)
NSN 9150-01-448-2298

Contact information:

Mil-Comm Products Company, Inc.
P.O. Box 43278
Upper Montclair, NJ 07043
Phone: (973) 743-5404
Fax: (973) 743-7139
www.milcomm.com

by Timothy Kast

“I had to wait approximately six months to get a test unit ACOG to evaluate. Every available piece Trijicon manufactured was being sent to the Middle East for Special Operations use. What does that tell you about the ACOG?”

Trijicon has been the specified manufacturer for Special Operations tritium night sights and specialty scopes for quite some time. The scope housing for the ACOG is forged, not cast, from 7075-T6 aircraft aluminum alloy, and then hard anodized according to military specifications. This is the same process Eugene Stoner used in designing the M16 rifle. It has survived drop tests from heights of 2 meters onto concrete and steel surfaces.

The Bindon Aiming Concept (or BAC) is unusual in that it allows close quarters transitional aiming with traditional long distance marksmanship. This is achieved by employing two-eye open aiming and a magnifying optical system together with a glowing reticle. This glowing reticle illuminated by the fiber optic system enhances the overall speed and accuracy with which the human eye tracks and configures the reticle.

The BAC discovery was made after an exhaustive search to combine the speed of an Armson OEG and similar red dot collimator sights together with the precision accuracy of a conventional telescopic riflescope. The BAC principle is simple, it is the automatic reaction of the human eye; it occurs instinctively. You must keep both eyes open all the time. The neon red reticle functions in the daytime hours, then adds a sharp contrast for transition to low light conditions. Upon receiving a target, you raise your weapon and point it in the general direction of the target. You will see the fiber-optic-illuminated reticle as you position your scope into the target area. Your M16 should then be in proper alignment with the target. Your brain then reacts and switches to the magnified view for your final exact telescopic picture. It sounds complicated, but it usually occurs within split seconds for complete target acquisition. The ACOG 4x32BAC is enabled by the fiber optic system and so is always illuminated no matter what lighting conditions may be present. You will see a sharp contrast with which to make your final sight picture. Your eyes will compensate for each other automatically as the weapon is moved, choosing the non-blurry magnified image routinely over the blurry image. As you slow the movement of your weapon, your brain will instantly choose the greater detail of the clearer magnified sight picture. This is a normal reaction designed to give you an uninterrupted view of your target.

The idea behind the use of the fiber optic system was to provide the best possible illuminated riflescope without unwanted complexity or reliability problems. There are no batteries, moving parts, switches or solar cells with this product. It is designed to be self sufficient and reliable under all conditions and in any environment.

The ACOG also contains tritium or Hydrogen-3, as it is also known. This is a commonly used radioactive material for nighttime illumination. This gives the riflescope its ability to work day or night, since the majority of enemy operatives seldom work a 9-5-work day.

I mounted the ACOG on a regular AR-15 for testing and evaluation. The mounting screws (1/32 x 1/2-inch allen buttonhead screws) are supplied, as is an Allen wrench. The scope utilizes the standard mounting hole centered on the carry handle or most AR-15s, so drilling holes in your weapon is not required. They even offer an optional thumb screw (part no. TA53) for a swift release from the carry handle. There is a second threaded hole on the bottom of the mount should you desire to permanently mount the scope or just want some additional security or rigidity. I noticed too, that the mount includes a clear channel to utilize the original iron sights should you need a point of reference in zeroing in the ACOG.

Trijicon states that the adjustment process varies slightly from other scopes and that adjustments are made in increments of 1/3 inch per click at 100 yards. This requires you to use 3 clicks to move the bullet one inch on your final target. The adjustment recesses are clearly marked with arrows for the direction that they must be moved to effect a change downrange in the same direction. The reticle is gauged so that the scope is zeroed at 100 yards with the top most reticle being the point of aim. Once zeroed at this range, you do not need to make any further adjustments between shots at different ranges.

In dry practice, the floating red donut leads your attention when the weapon is scanned in rapid sequence; then the next thing you notice is the ranged reticle beneath it. The Trijicon is always ready to use. No fumbling with a finicky pressure pad switch or cursing dead batteries. It has light gathering capabilities that excel in shadowy low light that you just don’t find otherwise. The fluorescent red donut is always on and always there. While the Bindon Aiming Concept takes a slight adjustment period, it is easily adopted. The most astonishing feature you will find is the speed at which you will acquire your target. This translates to a greater confidence in your weapon/scope combination.

My test unit was the 4×32 (TAO1NSN) that is presently being used by Special Operations Command (SOCOM) as standard issue for all Special Operations Units: this carries a national Stock Number of NSN1240-01-412-6608. This type of scope was engineered for the rough treatment many Spec-Ops weapons undergo. The ACOG features an internal adjustment that allows the shock load received in combat to be absorbed by the shock body and not the adjustment system.

I have owned Armson OEG scopes in the past and have found them to be very innovative and reliable. Trijicon now owns Armson and the ACOG is representative of the aggressive nature of their research and development sector. Their tritium sights are widely accepted among SOCOM groups, and they invited military input into the BAC version of the ACOG. The ACOG 4×32 was tested in the Advanced Combat Rifle (ARC) program conducted by the United States Army in 1989. Installed on the M16 it became the benchmark throughout the testing and was also mandated by other government contractors on their proposed advanced weapon systems. The ACOG has gone on to be used successfully by Spec-Ops units in conflicts such as El Salvador, Panama, and Desert Storm. Products as the ACOG are tested literally under fire, giving the operator little doubt as to its worth.

Along with the Army’s testing, Trijicon worked extensively with the University of Rochester Center for Visual Science as well as the University of Michigan Department of Opthalmology. Their research revealed that 96% of the population can use the BAC feature readily, while only 4% of the population had trouble with the system. These 4% were diagnosed as having phoria, a condition where the eyes wander off to either side rather than focusing correctly ahead. Phoria is measured in prism diopters. Most people have some small values of phoria, but not enough to significantly reduce their ability to focus with both eyes on a target in front of them. The customary way of addressing a two-eyes-open scope is to look through the reticle into the distance. Your eyes will look slightly towards each other as if they were a bit crossed. When we read, our eyes move even closer together. If one eye is blocked, it does not receive the same sensory input and will wander away from the target, usually to one side or the other. Testing has proven approximately 45% of the populace has absolutely zero phoria. If you discover that you exhibit symptoms of phoria or happen to be blind in one eye, you can still use an ACOG scope by simply switching to one-eye-only vision for looking through the telescopic sight. Phoria can also influence the red aiming donut a marginal amount left or right of the final aim dependent of your level of phoria.

As mentioned earlier, the ACOG scope contains a small amount of radioactive material for nighttime illumination. Tritium is a naturally occurring odorless, tasteless, colorless gas that reacts similarly as natural hydrogen to the human body. The body cannot easily retain either hydrogen or tritium as a gas. It is the flame ignition of this gas that is hazardous. If a tritium lamp becomes broken or is suspected of leakage, use caution around any source of flame until the manufacturer can repair the unit properly.

Maintenance and care for the ACOG are pretty simple, wash it with a little soap and water if it gets dirty. That’s it. Once clean, the lens of the ACOG can be polished with a soft cloth for greater clarity if you choose.

After testing and evaluation on the ACOG, I felt it was well worth the wait. I finally got a chance to check out a cutting edge military riflescope designed specifically for the AR-15, M16, M4 carbine family of weapons. It’s a rough and tumble scope that thrives on abuse. It comes with a manual, fasteners, Allen wrench, scope cover and even a polyethylene hard case for travel or storage. If you own an M16 or an AR-15, you will find it to be an excellent investment for your firearm.

Trijicon, Inc.
Dept. SAR
49385 Shafer Avenue
P.O. Box 930059
Wixom, MI 48393
Toll free: 800-338-0563
Website: www.trijicon.com
Email: info@trijicon.com

by Timothy Kast

When Waynesville, North Carolina native Jim Ray started Masters of Defense (MOD) Knives in 1997, Chief Jim “Patches” Watson was the first person he signed to his fledgling company. Jim Watson’s credentials are impressive to be sure: SEAL Team Two “plank holder,” Dick Marcinko’s point man in the Mekong Delta, awarded 16 combat decorations including 4 Bronze Stars with the combat ‘V’ for valor, and author of Point Man and Walking Point.

The design began with a sturdy modified spear-point accompanied by an almost full-length serrated cutting edge. This provides the end-user with an aggressive surface for slicing wet rope or tangled parachute cord. MOD precision hollow grinds each knife from a cryogenically hardened 154 cm high-carbon stainless-steel alloy blank that is tempered to a 60 Rockwell hardness.

Chief Watson wanted the handle to feel like it was part of your hand. To that end MOD computer machines the handles from solid bars of T6 aircraft aluminum, and puts a milspec hard-coat black anodized finish on them, finally finished with a checkered Kraton rubber insert for increased grip and feel when wet. These knives are built on the same type of computerized machinery used to construct missile guidance systems, and then hand-fitted by master craftsmen in the final assembly. These are knives that give you the precision of a custom knife coupled with the accuracy and durability afforded by the latest in CNC technology.

I chose the Watson Trident Utility Folder because of my need for a lightweight tactical folder that would hold up for everyday carry, but be tough enough for a variety of hard usage chores throughout the week; work that constitutes just about everything from cutting cleaning patches from discarded cloth to slicing through wet rope mountaineering in the rugged terrain of Western North Carolina. Other than wiping the blade clean or putting a drop of oil on the pivot bearing, I didn’t pamper the knife, but subjected it to the full range of tasks throughout the testing period. I was first concerned about the black coating the blade comes with, but my concern was unfounded as the matte black boron carbide coating held up exceptionally well with minimal care. The serrated edge gave little cause for worry after a few careful touches with a ceramic stone. The machined finger grooves on the spine of the blade provided a supplemental margin of delicate cut when used with the pressure of an index finger as your guide. This made cutting an odd size of gun cleaning patches a breeze. Much has been said about the ability of a knife to cut wet nautical line, but the truth is that soaked rope is indeed a tough cutting chore for any knife. The MOD Watson knife routinely cut all of the line that it encountered, but like any good knife required a periodic touch-up of the serrated edge with the ceramic stone. Spyderco manufactures the excellent Sharpmaker, and that has become the industry standard since its debut.

I was quite impressed by the 148 thousandths thick blade. It has a sturdiness that enables the knife to tackle jobs that oftentimes only a fixed blade knife or rescue tool could accomplish. Chief Watson told me that had been his goal all along; to give the operator the power of a fixed blade knife in a folder.

Tasked with building a campfire with wet kindling, I began cutting old kudzu vines for tinder. Because they are hanging vines, they generally have an opportunity to dry quickly after a rainstorm, so are a decent candidate for dry wood when there’s nothing else around. The Watson Knife when applied on an angle and with firm pressure would slide right through the kudzu vines and so I was able to gather a fair amount of kindling for a warm fire in a fairly short amount of time.

The Watson knife can be carried in a variety of ways. My favorite is just positioned in my front Levi’s pocket, but the MOD knife comes with a nylon Cordura pouch that can be worn on the belt horizontally or vertically. The flap is secured with Velcro for easy access. My old friend Frank Sigman makes a Kydex sheath for the Watson folder that is truly remarkable. Easily clipped on the belt, the knife slides in with a satisfying click that tells you that it is handily secured.

Masters of Defense produces this knife in a manual opener and an auto knife, which is restricted to military and law enforcement only. While I tested both versions, the manual opener is probably the model that would be best suited for everyday civilian carry.

Masters of Defense Knives has proved they have the mettle to survive in today’s highly competitive knife market. For twelve months I’ve lived with this knife and done just about everything with it. I’ve cut parachute cord, fished with it, used it around cars, trucks and motorcycles, then taken it to the range and abused the hell out of it. In all sorts of circumstances the knife took it all in stride. Chief Watson showed me one he had even used to cut tile with!

The one thing that every end user of Chief Watson’s folder had in common was that they all truly used the knife, not just stored it in their dresser drawer. The knife was designed to be carried on a daily basis. Any firearms enthusiast needing a good folder would do well to examine this fine offering from MOD.

Contact information:

Masters of Defense, LLC
256 A Industrial Park Drive
Waynesville, North Carolina 28786
Phone: (828) 452-4158
Fax: (828) 452-7327
Email: www.mastersofdefense.com

by Timothy Kast

How can you improve a gun that is already the favorite sidearm of the military and law enforcement? You can upgrade the sights to tritium night sights or a laser system. Fit different grips or maybe use a custom guide rod. All of those things affect the overall accuracy, but how do you truly make a good gun better?

Bar-Sto Precision Machine has been around for over thirty years and in that time-span they have been making barrels for a substantial number of classic handguns. The M1911 Government Model, the Browning High-Power, Glocks and the SIG P226 have all been transformed by the addition of Bar-Sto barrels. Distinguished by their CNC-engraved name on the side of the chamber, Bar-Sto barrels have been used exclusively by the US Marine Corps Marksman Unit since 1977. They have also been in nearly every winner’s gun at the Masters, the Steel Challenge, the U.S.P.S.A. Nationals, and the Camp Perry Bullseye Nationals.

The caliber 9x19mm Parabellum SIG P226 carries an impressive list of credentials as well. US Navy SEALs shot 30,000 rounds each through five pistols in the JSSOC trials before it became their standard duty pistol. Acceptance was approved shortly afterward and the Teams received their first guns the 20th of January 1989. Several Federal agencies have also adopted the P226 due to its accuracy and reliability. The SIG is comparatively an expensive gun, but administrators are apparently willing to pay more to equip their personnel with the P226. SIG pays exceptional attention to the perfection of their barrels, reaming out each individual barrel if they display any tendencies to ammunition sensitivity. Fitting a Bar-Sto barrel to a SIG P226 would be a true test of Bar-Sto’s performance capabilities.

Bar-Sto manufactures drop-in barrels and these work well and produce 13/4- to 2-inch groups using match-grade ammunition at 25 yards. However, I wanted to evaluate the “fitted-barrel” option that Bar-Sto offers as they claim 11/2-inch groups or better for this option.

On the range the first test I performed was a corroded ammo assessment. I chose approximately one hundred rounds of assorted aged and corroded ammunition. This would be apart from the regular ammunition used in the test. The Bar-Sto barrel digested all but two rounds.

When I had received the SIG back from Bar-Sto, I had noticed the action was very tight and crisp upon retracting the slide. This snugness began to wear in gradually the more I shot it. Bar-Sto fits these very barrels in just such a fashion so as to provide the utmost in accuracy for their customers. Bar-Sto barrels are machined from solid 416 stainless steel bar stock that has been previously heat treated to 180,000 pounds tensile strength. All of Bar-Sto barrels are machined, bored, and rifled on site. The rate of twist is specified at right-hand with one turn in 16 inches.

The corresponding testing was done using mostly military-grade ball ammo and jacketed hollow point, as well as frangible. A wide range of these types of ammunition was evaluated.

The ammunition used in SAR’s test and evaluation was as follows:

• Famae 9mm Parabellum (Chilean)
• China Sports 124-grain FMJ 9mm Parabellum (Chinese)
• Olin Corp. 9mm Ball NATO M882 (US military-issue)
• Winchester 9mm Luger 115-grain FMJ (commercial)
• Denel PMP 9mm Luger 115-grain FMJ (South African)
• International Cartridge Corp. (Frangible) 9mm Luger 100-grain FP
• Geco 124 grain full metal case (FMJ) 9mm Luger (German)
• Impact 9mm 147-grain JHP Subsonic (Specialty)
• Lazer Ammo 9mm Luger 115-grain FMJ (Match)

The ambient temperature was 36( F with a moderate 12-mile per hour wind, and no visible precipitation. The distance was 25 yards.

Military ball ammo presented no problem in cycling, sliding effortlessly up the polished ramp into the chamber, as did the frangible cartridges. The jacketed hollow point ammunition likewise functioned perfectly.

The barrel at this point was becoming more seated as the testing progressed – the slide, barrel, and frame working together in harmony throughout each magazine load. This part of the evaluation was the most enlightening; making one of the finest duty guns ever function even more flawlessly. Saving the best ammunition for last, I proceeded to shoot consistent 11/4-inch groups. Accuracy is a legitimate challenge for the armed professional seeking to perfect his or her duty sidearm.

The SIG P226 has been adopted by more agencies than any other pistol since the 1911A1 or the Browning High-Power. Those individuals wishing to hone the accuracy of this fine sidearm even closer now have an option. Whether you choose a Bar-Sto drop-in or opt for the hand-fitted barrel, you will find you have taken your piece to a higher level of excellence by doing so.

Bar-Sto Precision Machine
Dept. SAR
P.O. Box 1838
73377 Sullivan Road
Twentynine Palms,
California 92277
Phone: 760-367-2747
Fax: 760-367-2407
Email: barsto@eee.org
www.barsto.com

The Spec Ops sidearm had already been augmented with the Trijicons and was dated 1998. The intensity of the tritium glow seemed to be holding up rather well taking into account the four-year span of use. Once received, I took the Desert Eagle set with the pistol to Phil Flack at PF Custom Guns in Asheville, NC. There Phil removed the original sights and adeptly installed the new tritium sights. This was a noticeable improvement over the stockers. The front sight appears a bit more professional and sturdy, while the rear looks like a German bunker emplacement. It has a more narrow light gathering delta to the front of the rear sight than the originals, but it exhibits a massive construction designed to house the twin tritium vials necessary in a big handgun like the Desert Eagle. The Desert Eagle set, being new, were dated 02 and were noticeably larger in diameter and fresher than the Sig’s. That came as no surprise since the Sig is considerably smaller in size than the .44 mag.

The overall installation went smoothly. Both guns are dovetailed, so changing one sight over another is a simple process of carefully removing the previous set, then sliding the new ones into place. Phil had to file a minute bit of clearance from the new set, then using a hard nylon punch, tapped the Trijicons into place. He checked the alignment with a dial caliper and adjusted them accordingly. A cotton swab dipped in Brownell’s cold bluing for touchup completed the service and installation.

Once afield I immediately noticed that the sights seemed to hunker down to the receiver better than the originals. They appear to be low profile tactical sights despite the fact that they are approximately the same height as the standard sights. While the Desert Eagle is a bit large to be wearing in a holster, it is a big rough and tumble gun, and you wouldn’t want the sights hanging up on clothing anymore that you would with a more compact firearm. It is doubtful that you would encounter the Desert Eagle in a tactical role as the primary carry pistol because of its size and weight; however, I included it in the test because those same factors work against things like sights from wear and recoil. The Sig Sauer P226 on the other hand is the popular firearm among Special Operations and the Alphabet Agencies these days. Many law enforcement departments have chosen the P226 over others because of the presence of the de-cocker lever. This clever addition reduces the Murphy factor in a shoot, no-shoot transition. Night sights are generally added to properly develop a tactical sidearm which you will be using everyday. This is simply an additional accessory that better equips you for the unknown. There are some guidelines for selection though. With any sort of sight system the general criteria must always be effectiveness, fit, finish, ergonomics, aesthetics, and overall field performance.

Trijicons are chosen over other sight systems available to the military because they measure up to a specific set of guidelines such as these, with evaluations from the operators who finally use the end product. It is not a simple arbitrary process such as selecting Brand A over Brand B. A distinction should be made that many of the operator level evaluations involve real world kill house scenarios before the product ever reaches an operation where the gun will be relied on. These are designed to weed out the good from the not so good, as bad products seldom make it this far. This represents extremely rough usage, not the sort of gentle treatment you or I would give a treasured firearm. Under these circumstances design shortcomings, flaws or impediments become readily apparent so that the preferred products stand head and shoulders above the competition. In fact, I spoke with several operators that stated that much of the time Trijicon sights are specified even when weapons arrive with other manufacturer’s sights installed from the factory as original equipment. The Trijicon ACOG Scope sets the standard that Special Operations require for combat scopes. Their night sights are made with the same attention to detail.

As with any tritium night sight system you must always be aware of the possibility that if you can see them in the dark, then the bad guys may also use them to your disadvantage. The positives far outweigh the negative and most shooters know to shield their sights with their weak hand palm when not being properly employed.

In the field both weapons had a greater perceived capability over their plain sight brethren in and out of low light gradients. Even at dusk, just dark enough to appreciate the tritium, but light enough to still see a paper target, the groups I shot were considerably tighter that the ones shot without a luminous sight. Indeed as the light faded one evening shooting a similar Sig without Trijicons, I missed the target entirely. Mute testimony to the validity of an honest tritium sight system.

The overall effectiveness of the sights in a tactical role doe not seem to be diminished in any way by rough usage. The brunt of the abuse is borne by the front sight. The lettering on the front sight of the Sig was completely worn away by handling and holster wear, yet the brightness remained unaffected except by the attrition of age. Comparatively speaking however, the tritium was holding up quite well since they were only four years old by date of manufacture.

The only problem encountered with fit was the rear sight on the Desert Eagle requiring a tiny bit of hand filing. This was probably designed that way since the Desert Eagle pistols are not built with exceptionally tight tolerances. You would naturally want the sights to require some hand fitting since the alternative would be that they might be too loose.

Characterized by a sturdy black professional looking finish marked with the manufacturer’s logo and the date of manufacture, these sights look as if they belong on the gun. Both weapons appear the better when compared to the original equipment sights. The ergonomics too were improved over the standard shelf items. I was impressed by the smooth, no-snag outline of the sights on both guns.

The field performance is where these guns really shine. The recent manufacture sights on the Desert Eagle were clearly brighter than those on the four year old Sig Spec Ops pistol, but they were also smaller in size than those on the Eagle. The Sig 226 had obviously had a rough life but the sights had not degraded in an appreciable manner. Despite several boxes of Remington and CCI Blazer full power loads (240 gr JHP) the Desert Eagle’s sights were as rock steady as when Phil first installed them. I didn’t take any special care with either weapon, but tossed them about with relative abandon. They feel more rugged and heavy duty than some of the others I looked at. I noticed from the specifications that the lamps are mounted in silicone-sealed metal cylinders, rather than the plastic used by some manufacturers. The crystal windows are polished sapphire and are designed to give a crisp, round aiming dot in low light situations. They follow this up with white inlaid rings around each window to give the appearance of a white dot sight in the daylight. I had no problem whatsoever with either of the sight sets and can easily understand their popularity among Spec Ops and law enforcement. They did what they were advertised to and held a bright, luminous beam without any pampering. Although the endorsement of the military elite and police is not always correct, in this case their preference is spot-on. If you have the need for a good tough set of night sights, don’t hesitate to contact your dealer or Trijicon for your application.

Trijicon , Inc.,
Dept SAR
49385 Shafer Avenue,
P.O. Box 930059,
Wixom, MI 48393.
Toll free: 800-338-0563.
Website: www.trijicon.com
Email: info@trijicon.com