TACTICAL WEAPONS Top 25: Must-Have Mission Gear For Operators in 2015

Tactical Weapons May 2015 DIAMONDHEAD VRS T-308 HANDGUARDS — DIAMONDHEAD VRS T-308 HANDGUARDS: Diamondhead’s innovative VRS T-308 free-floating handguards offer an uninterrupted rail extension and handguard in perfect alignment with the host weapon’s flattop receiver. The VRS T-308 rail replaces the factory delta ring and barrel nut, and it has a modular design, meaning users can add rails and bumpers (sold separately) along the sides and bottom for accessories. The lightweight design has a comfortable, rounded, triangular shape with subtle finger grooves for a secure grip. Diamondhead currently offers 10.25-, 13.5- and 15-inch models in standard threaded and KeyMod versions and in two heights for most .308 platforms. (diamondhead-usa.com; 413-739-6970)

Tactical Weapons May 2015 MESA TACTICAL MOHAWK FOREND — MESA TACTICAL MOHAWK FOREND: Mesa Tactical has created the Mohawk modular forend for the Remington R12/Versa Max shotgun. Developed specifically for tactical use, integral accessory pockets on the right and left sides accept inserts as required by the shooter or situation. The inserts included with the Mohawk forend are: one polymer Picatinny rail section, one flat pad for mounting other Picatinny rail sections or direct-mount accessories, two pocket covers with an integral wire opening and contoured pocket covers. The Mohawk comes standard with a ventral Picatinny mount at the front of the forend. An installed sling swivel stud is included. (mesatactical.com; 714-545-3332)

Tactical Weapons May 2015 IAN SINCLAIR CARDSHARP4 — IAIN SINCLAIR CARDSHARP4: CNC-machined from a wafer-thin strip of ultra-light aluminum with natural grey anodizing, the Cardsharp4 is incredibly strong. Just three ingenious folding operations turn the card into an elegant pocket utility tool that is less bulky than a pocketknife and as sharp as a scalpel. The Cardsharp4 features new construction with a two-stage, child-proof Zytel safety lock that helps prevent accidental openings and gives the knife excellent rigidity in both open and closed positions. The new, improved Zytel rivet secures the blade to the body. Spring-loaded Nitinol hinges ensure the Cardsharp4 remains flat while in card mode. (iainsinclair.com)

Tactical Weapons May 2015 IOSSO CASE POLISH — IOSSO CASE POLISH: Load your own ammo? IOSSO’s new Case Polish is a bio-based formula designed to keep our environment healthy. It cleans even better than the company’s original formula to remove all fouling, including carbon buildup, powder fouling, oxidation, tarnish and any other residue. Just add the Case Polish into corncob or walnut media to reduce tumbling time and protect the item from future discoloration. It gives brass casings a like-new finish. The Case Polish is available in a variety of sizes to suit both at-home and commercial reloaders. (iosso.com; 847-437-8400)

Tactical Weapons May 2015 MAXSELL RX2 REVOLVER — MAXSELL RX2 REVOLVER: For 2015, the Maxsell Corporation has released a new detective-style, blank-firing starter gun, the RX2, which features a durable steel alloy frame and realistic weight. The report of the .380-caliber blanks is comparable to live rounds. This front-firing model produces a vivid muzzle flame, and the functional ejector easily expels spent cartridges. The RX2 is perfect for safe training, reenactments, films, K9 training and firearms collectons. This replica has a blaze orange marking permanently affixed to the barrel in compliance with Department of Commerce regulations. (maxarmory.com; 877-332-2343)

Tactical Weapons May 2015 RICOH NV-10A ENHANCED BINOCULARS — RICOH NV-10A ENHANCED BINOCULARS: The new NV-10A Enhanced Binoculars from RICOH are digital and come with image stabilization in addition to an atmospheric interference-reduction mode. It also has a built-in Twilight mode that enhances vision at night. The NV-10A is also water and dust proof. Furthermore, it is a functional design that is easy to use even with gloves. You can also record your view to an SD card as either a full-motion or still image. Finally, the rugged NV-10A can display your latitude and longitude using its GPS function. (ricoh.com)

Tactical Weapons May 2015 MAGPUL MOE & ZHUKOV AK ACCESSORIES — MAGPUL MOE & ZHUKOV AK ACCESSORIES: Magpul has released several upgrades for AKs. First up is the MOE AK series, which includes a fixed, reinforced-polymer buttstock with a top storage compartment and sling-mounting points. This stock works perfectly with Magpul’s MOE AK grip. The MOE handguard, also made of reinforced polymer, features M-LOK accessory slots, ridges for better traction and a vented cover that goes over the gas tube. Magpul’s Zhukov line features a durable AK handguard with a full-length aluminum chassis and the company’s new M-LOK slots for attaching accessories like lights and lasers. (magpul.com; 877-462-4785)

Tactical Weapons May 2015 MCMILLAN TAC-50 A1 STOCK — MCMILLAN TAC-50 A1 STOCK: For 2015, McMillan has made several improvements to the original fiberglass TAC-50 stock, resulting in the next-gen TAC-50 A1. The .50-caliber rifle stock’s forearm is now 5 inches longer to move the bipod forward for more precise sighting adjustments. The new buttstock also has an integral, vertically adjustable cheekpiece that is much more comfortable to shoot the rifle with, and the pistol grip is a bit slimmer to fit a wider range of hand sizes. The thick rubber buttpad helps absorb recoil, and it has a curved shape to help lock the rifle into your shoulder pocket. (mcmillanusa.com; 877-365-6148)

Tactical Weapons May 2015 ZEROBRAVO REOS — ZEROBRAVO REOS: The ZeroBravo Rapid Engagement Offset Sight (REOS) is a lightweight and simple solution for engaging close-range targets when using magnified optics. Machined from 6061 aircraft-grade aluminum and protected by mil-spec Type III hardcoat anodizing, the REOS mounts directly to the scope tube, allowing the user to mount them on AR-style weapons as well as precision and hunting rifles. Utilizing the two ghost-ring sights, the user simply cants the rifle, acquires the target through the ghost rings and engages the target. At less than 2 ounces, the REOS provide the function required without the added weight, snag hazards or cost commonly associated with traditional offset sights. (zerobravo.com)

Tactical Weapons May 2015 RHINO ARMS PDW — RHINO ARMS PDW: The Rhino Arms Personal-Defense Weapon (PDW) is one of the most compact non-NFA variations of the AR-15 available. The stock quickly extends with a pull and rigidly locks into any of the five available positions. All controls are easily reached without removing your strong hand from the gun. The PDW is available in 5.56mm NATO or 300 Blackout with a 14.5-inch, light-contour barrel. SBR configurations are also available. The PDW also comes with Rhino’s Flash Tamer, an adjustable gas block, an ambidextrous safety selector, an Ergo grip and a carbon-fiber handguard with Magpul’s M-LOK system. (rhinoarms.com; 855-257-4466)

Tactical Weapons May 2015 BURRIS TACTICAL KITS — BURRIS TACTICAL KITS: Burris’ new Tactical Kits will help tactical and competitive AR shooters get ready to roll. The kits include a quality prism sight and either a secondary red-dot sight or an AR-Tripler, plus mounts, all packaged in a rugged carry case. They’re complete, ready-to-go optics platforms, at over a $100 savings compared to buying each item separately. The AR-332 Tactical Kit features the 3X AR-332 with the FastFire II reflex sight, while the AR-536 Tactical Kit comes with a 5X AR-536 with the FastFire II. Finally, the AR-1X Tactical Kit comes with the AR-1X prism sight and the AR-Tripler. (burrisoptics.com; 970-356-1670)

Tactical Weapons May 2015 LYMAN TURBOSONIC 1200 CASE CLEANER — LYMAN TURBOSONIC 1200 CASE CLEANER: Lyman has introduced a new ultrasonic case cleaner, the TurboSonic 1200, that features a new easy-to-use and easy-to-see touch-screen control panel. This new model has a mid-size, 6.5-by-5.4-by-2.6-inch tank that can process up to 350 9mm cases. When used with Lyman’s specially formulated cleaning solutions, the unit’s powerful transducers and uniquely engineered cleaning basket combine to deliver superior cleaning. The ultrasonic cavitation quickly attacks, dissolves and lifts case fouling inside and out, even in primer pockets. (lymanproducts.com; 860-632-2020)

Tactical Weapons May 2015 SECUREIT MODEL 84 TACTICAL RACK — SECUREIT MODEL 84 TACTICAL RACK: The Model 84 Tactical Rack offers unlimited configurations for long gun, pistols and gear. Constructed from 14-gauge steel, the unit features a two-part saddle system that simply adjusts to store any long gun as well shelves, pistol pegs, magnetic hooks, bins and trays that can be re positioned by the user without the use of any tools. Measuring 84 inches tall, 36 inches wide and 15 inches deep, the Tactical Rack is protected by bi-fold doors with a nine-point locking system. (secureittactical.com; 800-651-8835)

Tactical Weapons May 2015 SPRINGFIELD MARINE CORPS OPERATOR — SPRINGFIELD MARINE CORPS OPERATOR: Springfield Armory has expanded its Operator lineup to include the Marine Corps Operator, a Government Model 1911 in .45 ACP. In addition to ambidextrous thumb safeties and lightweight delta hammers, the Operator 1911 designs feature accessory rails for the addition of a tactical light or laser aiming device. The Marine Corps Operator features a forged steel frame finished in olive drab Armory Kote, G10 grips and a new serration pattern on the frontstrap that helps keep the gun in hand but won’t abrade or snag on clothing. Within the black Armory Koted slide is a stainless steel, 5-inch, match-grade barrel. (springfield-armory.com; 800-680-6686)

Tactical Weapons May 2015 SUREFIRE Y300 ULTRA — SUREFIRE Y300 ULTRA: SureFire’s new Y300 Ultra flashlight, featuring an ultra-high-output LED that generates a maximum output of 500 lumens, is also ultra-compact, at just 3.6 inches in length and weighing only 5.5 ounces when loaded with two CR123A lithium batteries. In addition to its 500-lumen max output, the dual-output Y300 Ultra also generates a useful 15-lumen beam on its lower setting. It also has a unique magnetic platform that makes the light easy to attach to a variety of metal surfaces for hands-free use. (surefire.com; 800-828-8809)

Tactical Weapons May 2015 SAVAGE ARMS A17 — SAVAGE ARMS A17: The .17 Hornady Magnum Rimfire (HMR) is a fast little cartridge built from a necked-down .22 Magnum. Because of its speed, however, many shooters have only been able to reliably run the .17 HMR in bolt-action rifles. Now Savage Arms has changed all that with the introduction of its new A17, a semi-automatic rifle built specifically for the .17 HMR. The A17 utilizes a delayed-blowback action and features a hardened steel receiver and a chrome-plated bolt for greater strength. The A17 also comes with a 10-round rotary magazine and an adjustable trigger. (savagearms.com; 413-642-4260)

Tactical Weapons May 2015 VDI INTEGRAL BOLT CARRIERS — VDI INTEGRAL BOLT CARRIERS: The new Integral DI Carrier from VooDoo Innovations (VDI) was designed to improve the service life and durability of the direct impingement carrier. The VDI Integral DI Carrier eliminates the potential for carrier-to-key separation due to carrier key screws stripping, fracturing or becoming un-staked. The new Integral carrier has an improved gas flow path with no obstructions or shelves for carbon to deposit and build up, eliminating the potential for gas obstructions to seize the operation of your carrier. The 20-percent reduction in carrier weight in these low-mass carriers decreases the reciprocal mass, reducing felt recoil and increasing the tune-ability for every application. (voodooinnovations.com; 813-867-4242)

Tactical Weapons May 2015 ROCK ISLAND ARMORY TAC ULTRA SERIES COMPACT — ROCK ISLAND ARMORY TAC ULTRA SERIES COMPACT: Rock Island Armory has unveiled two new TAC Ultra Series pistols in .45 ACP and 9mm, which come with seven- and eight-round magazines, respectively. Both pistols are designed for concealed carry and are available for under $760. The TAC Ultra Series was first revealed in 2010 as a 100-year celebration of the 1911 platform. The series is best known for its Picatinny rail, ambidextrous safety, combat hammer and extended beavertail for optimal recoil control. (armscor.com; 775-537-1444)

Tactical Weapons May 2015 BERETTA M9A3 — BERETTA M9A3: Beretta has redesigned its battle-proven M9 platform with several next-gen enhancements. The M9A3 has a slimmer grip to accommodate more shooters with smaller hands. The frame also features a Picatinny rail for mounting accessories, and it’s given an earth tone anodizing to blend into desert surroundings. More frame enhancements include a beveled mag well, new grip panels and an enlarged magazine release button. The slide is given a Cerakote earth tone finish. The M9A3 also features tritium sights, and the front sight can easily be swapped out. The barrel is also threaded for suppressor use. (beretta.com)

Tactical Weapons May 2015 SIG SAUER BRAVO 4 — SIG SAUER BRAVO 4: One of the most trusted names in firearms is now dealing in high-quality optics. Designed for ARs, Sig Sauer’s new fixed-power, prism-based Bravo sights are optimized for close- to medium-range targeting situations where speed is a must. The prism design allows for compact overall dimensions with high-resolution performance. The Bravo 4 with Stealth ID is as tough on the outside as it is on the inside—this is one rugged optic. The Bravo 4 offers an unmatched 45-percent wider field of view than the leading competitor. The flat, distortion-free target image also boasts unprecedented edge-to-edge clarity by means of low dispersion glass and a spherical lens design. (sigsauer.com; 603-610-3000)

Tactical Weapons May 2015 BARNES RANGEAR AMMO — BARNES RANGEAR AMMO: For those seeking ammunition that performs consistently, Barnes Bullets’ RangeAR ammo delivers higher velocities, flatter trajectories and ultimate accuracy at an affordable price. Top-quality brass is paired with a lead-free, copper-jacketed, zinc-core Open Tip Flat Base (OTFB) projectile. The robust zinc core provides excellent performance in AR-platform weapons with quick-twist barrels. Specialized propellants optimized for ARs ensure that RangeAR ammunition offers superior performance in these high-performance platforms of any barrel length. Priced right for high-volume training, the RangeAR line will initially be offered in 52-grain 5.56mm and 90-grain 300 AAC Blackout loads. (barnesbullets.com; 800-574-9200)

Tactical Weapons May 2015 KAHLES K624i — KAHLES K624i: The highly popular Kahles K624i has received significant upgrades for 2015. One of our nation’s preeminent competitive marksmen and instructors, Shannon Kay, helped develop the SKMR and SKMR2 reticles in conjunction with HPS’ Jeff Huber to bring two versatile reticle options to the Kahles product line. The new 2015 MOA version of the K624i utilizes a similar MOA-based reticle with 0.25-MOA adjustment turrets. This scope has also been upgraded optically and achieves superior performance in all categories. The Kahles K624i features a solid, one-piece scope body made from bar stock aluminum billet for enhanced durability. (kahles.at; 866-606-8779)

Tactical Weapons May 2015 DEL-TON SIERRA 3G — DEL-TON SIERRA 3G: Del-Ton has built an AR-platform rifle designed specifically for dominating 3-Gun competitions—the Sierra 3G. The rifle has a .223 Wylde chamber, which helps it handle both .223 Remington and 5.56mm NATO ammunition better for enhanced accuracy and precision. Del-Ton outfits the rifle with a 16-inch barrel with a 1-in-8-inch twist rate and a custom muzzle brake that was designed specifically for this rifle in-house by Del-Ton. The rifle also utilizes a mid-length gas system for softer recoil and smoother shooting. More features include a Samson Evolution handguard, a single-stage, match-grade trigger, an Ergo grip and a Magpul CTR stock. (del-ton.com; 910-645-2172)

Tactical Weapons May 2015 BULLET BUNKER SNIPER II — BULLET BUNKER SNIPER II: Bullet Bunker has unveiled the Sniper II model, a bullet trap created specifically for what highly trained sharp shooters need to train. The Sniper II is adjustable and can sit on the ground or be cranked up to over 6 feet tall. Moreover, the unit has large, solid tires, making it easy to move around indoors or out. Finally, the trap has four retractable legs that are deployed to lend stability. All this means you can create real-life scenarios and change target situations to suit your training needs. (thebulletbunker.com; 419-660-0228)

Tactical Weapons May 2015 GEMTECH SUPPRESSED BOLT CARRIER — GEMTECH SUPPRESSED BOLT CARRIER: The Gemtech Suppressed Bolt Carrier (SBC) is designed to increase the reliability of any suppressed 7.62mm or 5.56mm AR-platform firearm. The adjustable bolt carrier is a drop-in replacement and will allow the shooter to choose between suppressed and unsuppressed settings without any permanent modifications to the firearm. No longer will you need to change gas blocks, buffers or any other components. Not only that, but with the Gemtech SBC, there is a reduction in carrier speed and less felt recoil, bringing the cyclical rate of the suppressed rifle down to unsuppressed levels. (gem-tech.com; 208-939-7222)

DIAMONDHEAD VRS T-308 HANDGUARDS

Diamondhead’s innovative VRS T-308 free-floating handguards offer an uninterrupted rail extension and handguard in perfect alignment with the host weapon’s flattop receiver. The VRS T-308 rail replaces the factory delta ring and barrel nut, and it has a modular design, meaning users can add rails and bumpers (sold separately) along the sides and bottom for accessories. The lightweight design has a comfortable, rounded, triangular shape with subtle finger grooves for a secure grip. Diamondhead currently offers 10.25-, 13.5- and 15-inch models in standard threaded and KeyMod versions and in two heights for most .308 platforms. (diamondhead-usa.com; 413-739-6970)

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MESA TACTICAL MOHAWK FOREND

Mesa Tactical has created the Mohawk modular forend for the Remington R12/Versa Max shotgun. Developed specifically for tactical use, integral accessory pockets on the right and left sides accept inserts as required by the shooter or situation. The inserts included with the Mohawk forend are: one polymer Picatinny rail section, one flat pad for mounting other Picatinny rail sections or direct-mount accessories, two pocket covers with an integral wire opening and contoured pocket covers. The Mohawk comes standard with a ventral Picatinny mount at the front of the forend. An installed sling swivel stud is included. (mesatactical.com; 714-545-3332)

IAIN SINCLAIR CARDSHARP4

CNC-machined from a wafer-thin strip of ultra-light aluminum with natural grey anodizing, the Cardsharp4 is incredibly strong. Just three ingenious folding operations turn the card into an elegant pocket utility tool that is less bulky than a pocketknife and as sharp as a scalpel. The Cardsharp4 features new construction with a two-stage, child-proof Zytel safety lock that helps prevent accidental openings and gives the knife excellent rigidity in both open and closed positions. The new, improved Zytel rivet secures the blade to the body. Spring-loaded Nitinol hinges ensure the Cardsharp4 remains flat while in card mode. (iainsinclair.com)

IOSSO CASE POLISH

Load your own ammo? IOSSO’s new Case Polish is a bio-based formula designed to keep our environment healthy. It cleans even better than the company’s original formula to remove all fouling, including carbon buildup, powder fouling, oxidation, tarnish and any other residue. Just add the Case Polish into corncob or walnut media to reduce tumbling time and protect the item from future discoloration. It gives brass casings a like-new finish. The Case Polish is available in a variety of sizes to suit both at-home and commercial reloaders. (iosso.com; 847-437-8400)

MAXSELL RX2 REVOLVER

For 2015, the Maxsell Corporation has released a new detective-style, blank-firing starter gun, the RX2, which features a durable steel alloy frame and realistic weight. The report of the .380-caliber blanks is comparable to live rounds. This front-firing model produces a vivid muzzle flame, and the functional ejector easily expels spent cartridges. The RX2 is perfect for safe training, reenactments, films, K9 training and firearms collectons. This replica has a blaze orange marking permanently affixed to the barrel in compliance with Department of Commerce regulations. (maxarmory.com; 877-332-2343)

RICOH NV-10A ENHANCED BINOCULARS

The new NV-10A Enhanced Binoculars from RICOH are digital and come with image stabilization in addition to an atmospheric interference-reduction mode. It also has a built-in Twilight mode that enhances vision at night. The NV-10A is also water and dust proof. Furthermore, it is a functional design that is easy to use even with gloves. You can also record your view to an SD card as either a full-motion or still image. Finally, the rugged NV-10A can display your latitude and longitude using its GPS function. (ricoh.com)

MAGPUL MOE & ZHUKOV AK ACCESSORIES

Magpul has released several upgrades for AKs. First up is the MOE AK series, which includes a fixed, reinforced-polymer buttstock with a top storage compartment and sling-mounting points. This stock works perfectly with Magpul’s MOE AK grip. The MOE handguard, also made of reinforced polymer, features M-LOK accessory slots, ridges for better traction and a vented cover that goes over the gas tube. Magpul’s Zhukov line features a durable AK handguard with a full-length aluminum chassis and the company’s new M-LOK slots for attaching accessories like lights and lasers. (magpul.com; 877-462-4785)

MCMILLAN TAC-50 A1 STOCK

For 2015, McMillan has made several improvements to the original fiberglass TAC-50 stock, resulting in the next-gen TAC-50 A1. The .50-caliber rifle stock’s forearm is now 5 inches longer to move the bipod forward for more precise sighting adjustments. The new buttstock also has an integral, vertically adjustable cheekpiece that is much more comfortable to shoot the rifle with, and the pistol grip is a bit slimmer to fit a wider range of hand sizes. The thick rubber buttpad helps absorb recoil, and it has a curved shape to help lock the rifle into your shoulder pocket. (mcmillanusa.com; 877-365-6148)

ZEROBRAVO REOS

The ZeroBravo Rapid Engagement Offset Sight (REOS) is a lightweight and simple solution for engaging close-range targets when using magnified optics. Machined from 6061 aircraft-grade aluminum and protected by mil-spec Type III hardcoat anodizing, the REOS mounts directly to the scope tube, allowing the user to mount them on AR-style weapons as well as precision and hunting rifles. Utilizing the two ghost-ring sights, the user simply cants the rifle, acquires the target through the ghost rings and engages the target. At less than 2 ounces, the REOS provide the function required without the added weight, snag hazards or cost commonly associated with traditional offset sights. (zerobravo.com)

RHINO ARMS PDW

The Rhino Arms Personal-Defense Weapon (PDW) is one of the most compact non-NFA variations of the AR-15 available. The stock quickly extends with a pull and rigidly locks into any of the five available positions. All controls are easily reached without removing your strong hand from the gun. The PDW is available in 5.56mm NATO or 300 Blackout with a 14.5-inch, light-contour barrel. SBR configurations are also available. The PDW also comes with Rhino’s Flash Tamer, an adjustable gas block, an ambidextrous safety selector, an Ergo grip and a carbon-fiber handguard with Magpul’s M-LOK system. (rhinoarms.com; 855-257-4466)

BURRIS TACTICAL KITS

Burris’ new Tactical Kits will help tactical and competitive AR shooters get ready to roll. The kits include a quality prism sight and either a secondary red-dot sight or an AR-Tripler, plus mounts, all packaged in a rugged carry case. They’re complete, ready-to-go optics platforms, at over a $100 savings compared to buying each item separately. The AR-332 Tactical Kit features the 3X AR-332 with the FastFire II reflex sight, while the AR-536 Tactical Kit comes with a 5X AR-536 with the FastFire II. Finally, the AR-1X Tactical Kit comes with the AR-1X prism sight and the AR-Tripler. (burrisoptics.com; 970-356-1670)

LYMAN TURBOSONIC 1200 CASE CLEANER

Lyman has introduced a new ultrasonic case cleaner, the TurboSonic 1200, that features a new easy-to-use and easy-to-see touch-screen control panel. This new model has a mid-size, 6.5-by-5.4-by-2.6-inch tank that can process up to 350 9mm cases. When used with Lyman’s specially formulated cleaning solutions, the unit’s powerful transducers and uniquely engineered cleaning basket combine to deliver superior cleaning. The ultrasonic cavitation quickly attacks, dissolves and lifts case fouling inside and out, even in primer pockets. (lymanproducts.com; 860-632-2020)

SECUREIT MODEL 84 TACTICAL RACK

The Model 84 Tactical Rack offers unlimited configurations for long gun, pistols and gear. Constructed from 14-gauge steel, the unit features a two-part saddle system that simply adjusts to store any long gun as well shelves, pistol pegs, magnetic hooks, bins and trays that can be re positioned by the user without the use of any tools. Measuring 84 inches tall, 36 inches wide and 15 inches deep, the Tactical Rack is protected by bi-fold doors with a nine-point locking system. (secureittactical.com; 800-651-8835)

SPRINGFIELD MARINE CORPS OPERATOR

Springfield Armory has expanded its Operator lineup to include the Marine Corps Operator, a Government Model 1911 in .45 ACP. In addition to ambidextrous thumb safeties and lightweight delta hammers, the Operator 1911 designs feature accessory rails for the addition of a tactical light or laser aiming device. The Marine Corps Operator features a forged steel frame finished in olive drab Armory Kote, G10 grips and a new serration pattern on the frontstrap that helps keep the gun in hand but won’t abrade or snag on clothing. Within the black Armory Koted slide is a stainless steel, 5-inch, match-grade barrel. (springfield-armory.com; 800-680-6686)

SUREFIRE Y300 ULTRA

SureFire’s new Y300 Ultra flashlight, featuring an ultra-high-output LED that generates a maximum output of 500 lumens, is also ultra-compact, at just 3.6 inches in length and weighing only 5.5 ounces when loaded with two CR123A lithium batteries. In addition to its 500-lumen max output, the dual-output Y300 Ultra also generates a useful 15-lumen beam on its lower setting. It also has a unique magnetic platform that makes the light easy to attach to a variety of metal surfaces for hands-free use. (surefire.com; 800-828-8809)

SAVAGE ARMS A17

The .17 Hornady Magnum Rimfire (HMR) is a fast little cartridge built from a necked-down .22 Magnum. Because of its speed, however, many shooters have only been able to reliably run the .17 HMR in bolt-action rifles. Now Savage Arms has changed all that with the introduction of its new A17, a semi-automatic rifle built specifically for the .17 HMR. The A17 utilizes a delayed-blowback action and features a hardened steel receiver and a chrome-plated bolt for greater strength. The A17 also comes with a 10-round rotary magazine and an adjustable trigger. (savagearms.com; 413-642-4260)

VDI INTEGRAL BOLT CARRIERS

The new Integral DI Carrier from VooDoo Innovations (VDI) was designed to improve the service life and durability of the direct impingement carrier. The VDI Integral DI Carrier eliminates the potential for carrier-to-key separation due to carrier key screws stripping, fracturing or becoming un-staked. The new Integral carrier has an improved gas flow path with no obstructions or shelves for carbon to deposit and build up, eliminating the potential for gas obstructions to seize the operation of your carrier. The 20-percent reduction in carrier weight in these low-mass carriers decreases the reciprocal mass, reducing felt recoil and increasing the tune-ability for every application. (voodooinnovations.com; 813-867-4242)

ROCK ISLAND ARMORY TAC ULTRA SERIES COMPACT

Rock Island Armory has unveiled two new TAC Ultra Series pistols in .45 ACP and 9mm, which come with seven- and eight-round magazines, respectively. Both pistols are designed for concealed carry and are available for under $760. The TAC Ultra Series was first revealed in 2010 as a 100-year celebration of the 1911 platform. The series is best known for its Picatinny rail, ambidextrous safety, combat hammer and extended beavertail for optimal recoil control. (armscor.com; 775-537-1444)

BERETTA M9A3

Beretta has redesigned its battle-proven M9 platform with several next-gen enhancements. The M9A3 has a slimmer grip to accommodate more shooters with smaller hands. The frame also features a Picatinny rail for mounting accessories, and it’s given an earth tone anodizing to blend into desert surroundings. More frame enhancements include a beveled mag well, new grip panels and an enlarged magazine release button. The slide is given a Cerakote earth tone finish. The M9A3 also features tritium sights, and the front sight can easily be swapped out. The barrel is also threaded for suppressor use. (beretta.com)

SIG SAUER BRAVO 4

One of the most trusted names in firearms is now dealing in high-quality optics. Designed for ARs, Sig Sauer’s new fixed-power, prism-based Bravo sights are optimized for close- to medium-range targeting situations where speed is a must. The prism design allows for compact overall dimensions with high-resolution performance. The Bravo 4 with Stealth ID is as tough on the outside as it is on the inside—this is one rugged optic. The Bravo 4 offers an unmatched 45-percent wider field of view than the leading competitor. The flat, distortion-free target image also boasts unprecedented edge-to-edge clarity by means of low dispersion glass and a spherical lens design. (sigsauer.com; 603-610-3000)

BARNES RANGEAR AMMO

For those seeking ammunition that performs consistently, Barnes Bullets’ RangeAR ammo delivers higher velocities, flatter trajectories and ultimate accuracy at an affordable price. Top-quality brass is paired with a lead-free, copper-jacketed, zinc-core Open Tip Flat Base (OTFB) projectile. The robust zinc core provides excellent performance in AR-platform weapons with quick-twist barrels. Specialized propellants optimized for ARs ensure that RangeAR ammunition offers superior performance in these high-performance platforms of any barrel length. Priced right for high-volume training, the RangeAR line will initially be offered in 52-grain 5.56mm and 90-grain 300 AAC Blackout loads. (barnesbullets.com; 800-574-9200)

KAHLES K624i

The highly popular Kahles K624i has received significant upgrades for 2015. One of our nation’s preeminent competitive marksmen and instructors, Shannon Kay, helped develop the SKMR and SKMR2 reticles in conjunction with HPS’ Jeff Huber to bring two versatile reticle options to the Kahles product line. The new 2015 MOA version of the K624i utilizes a similar MOA-based reticle with 0.25-MOA adjustment turrets. This scope has also been upgraded optically and achieves superior performance in all categories. The Kahles K624i features a solid, one-piece scope body made from bar stock aluminum billet for enhanced durability. (kahles.at; 866-606-8779)

DEL-TON SIERRA 3G

Del-Ton has built an AR-platform rifle designed specifically for dominating 3-Gun competitions—the Sierra 3G. The rifle has a .223 Wylde chamber, which helps it handle both .223 Remington and 5.56mm NATO ammunition better for enhanced accuracy and precision. Del-Ton outfits the rifle with a 16-inch barrel with a 1-in-8-inch twist rate and a custom muzzle brake that was designed specifically for this rifle in-house by Del-Ton. The rifle also utilizes a mid-length gas system for softer recoil and smoother shooting. More features include a Samson Evolution handguard, a single-stage, match-grade trigger, an Ergo grip and a Magpul CTR stock. (del-ton.com; 910-645-2172)

BULLET BUNKER SNIPER II

Bullet Bunker has unveiled the Sniper II model, a bullet trap created specifically for what highly trained sharp shooters need to train. The Sniper II is adjustable and can sit on the ground or be cranked up to over 6 feet tall. Moreover, the unit has large, solid tires, making it easy to move around indoors or out. Finally, the trap has four retractable legs that are deployed to lend stability. All this means you can create real-life scenarios and change target situations to suit your training needs. (thebulletbunker.com; 419-660-0228)

GEMTECH SUPPRESSED BOLT CARRIER

The Gemtech Suppressed Bolt Carrier (SBC) is designed to increase the reliability of any suppressed 7.62mm or 5.56mm AR-platform firearm. The adjustable bolt carrier is a drop-in replacement and will allow the shooter to choose between suppressed and unsuppressed settings without any permanent modifications to the firearm. No longer will you need to change gas blocks, buffers or any other components. Not only that, but with the Gemtech SBC, there is a reduction in carrier speed and less felt recoil, bringing the cyclical rate of the suppressed rifle down to unsuppressed levels. (gem-tech.com; 208-939-7222)