Category Archives: Gear Reviews

Improved AK – Rifle Dynamics AK to M4 Stock Adapter Install

ImprovedAK_20131127_T3i_022_1080The factory wood buttstock on the AK-47/AKM rifles is a rather robust and trouble free part. It is impervious to cold. There is little to mechanically fail on it and your face won’t freeze to it in the winter. However it is not exactly ideal for all body types. If the factory wood fits your body and shooting style, you may not see any need to replace it. If you are smaller or larger than the average Russian, you may benefit from a different length of pull. Continue reading Improved AK – Rifle Dynamics AK to M4 Stock Adapter Install

Alamo Four Star DLOC-S Bipod Upgrade

Alamo DLOC-S Bipod Upgrade
Cadex Strike 30 Chassis with DLOC-S Upgraded Harris BRM-S

The Harris BRM-S series of bipods is one of the most popular choices for precision rifle shooters. The swivel base, spring actuated legs and fast deployment make it well suited for fast setup on uneven terrain. The BRM-S has served military and law enforcement shooters all over the world and is made here in the USA. Continue reading Alamo Four Star DLOC-S Bipod Upgrade

Improved AK – TAPCO SAW Grip Installation

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TAPCO SAW Grip installed on our WASR 10

The AK comes out of the box with a perfectly functional pistol grip. However for most men the grip is fairly skinny. If we were constantly operating in environments were thick winter gloves are the norm then the factory grip would be well suited. Since our AK will mostly see mild weather use with thin protective gloves, we could do with a beefier grip.

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Improved AK – Midwest Industries Extended Handguard Installation

MI Extended AK Handguard
Midwest Industries Extended Handguard, Bushnell TRS-25 and Magpul AFG

In our effort to update the AK47 the first aspect that needs to be addressed is the sighting system. The stock AK comes with plain notch and post sights. The rear sight is elevation adjustable. The front sight is used to change elevation and windage for zeroing. The sights are not quickly adjustable in the field. They are really designed to be zeroed and left alone. The notch and post are not very effective in low light and the short sight radius make them less than precise for long range shots.

Continue reading Improved AK – Midwest Industries Extended Handguard Installation

Improved AK Series – Updating a Classic

Improved AK ScreenshotA rack grade AK47 is one of the greatest battle rifles ever designed. While many will argue which battle rifle is the “best” the AK almost always makes the list for consideration. The AK does suffer some setbacks. It is an old design. The ergonomics favor smaller shooters. The iron sights are poor in low light and the system does not lend well to installing optics. Continue reading Improved AK Series – Updating a Classic

Bushnell AR Optics 1-4x24mm Throw Down PCL First Look

IMG_3175We recently received a new Bushnell AR Optics 1-4x24mm rifle scope. Our first impression is this scope offers a lot of value for the price. They retail for approximately $230.

The AR Optics 1-4×24 features a First Focal Plane BTR-1 reticle and 0.1 mRad turrets. The BTR-1 is a bullet drop compensated reticle designed for the .223 cartridge. When we do our full review we will report back with what bullet and muzzle velocity match up with the reticle. Continue reading Bushnell AR Optics 1-4x24mm Throw Down PCL First Look

Diamondback in the Rough!

Vortex Diamondback 10x42

I usually try to stay away from products made in China. However, every once in awhile you find a gem. The Vortex Diamondback Binoculars are one of those gems. Continue reading Diamondback in the Rough!

HSGI Double Decker Taco – First Look

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I use a wide array of rifle systems. This can be somewhat difficult when it comes time to setup my gear. One day I may be running an AK, another day it may be an AICS based rifle. The next day I may be using an AR15 or AR10. All use vastly different magazines. Of course there is the option to setup different rigs for each system. There is also the option to just purchase separate magazine pouches and swap them out for each system. A better option is the HSGI Double Decker Taco. Continue reading HSGI Double Decker Taco – First Look

Aegis Armory “The Shield” Hybrid Holster Review

Aegis Armory "The Shield" Hybrid Holster in Carbon Fiber Kydex and Black Leather.
Aegis Armory “The Shield” Hybrid Holster in Carbon Fiber Kydex and Black Leather.

Recently I was contacted by Stephen at Aegis Armory, inquiring if I would like to take a look at the holsters they produce. Since carrying a handgun is a requirement of my profession (and just good common sense), I agreed. I jumped over to their Facebook page and took a look at what they offered. Continue reading Aegis Armory “The Shield” Hybrid Holster Review

Triad Tactical Precision Rifle Carry Case Review

TriadDragBag_20130421_60D_16The Precision Rifle Carry Case (PRCC) is a new “drag bag” style rifle case from Triad Tactical. There are scores of drag bags on the market, but the Triad PRCC is different. Many of the drag bags I have used in the past are bulked up with added “features” not really needed for “dragging” a rifle on a stalk. The PRCC is designed with simplicity in mind. Gone is the floppy “nose cone” and strap storage compartment. Also eliminated is the snap closure that usually covers the zipper. Instead the zipper is protected by the surrounding material. Continue reading Triad Tactical Precision Rifle Carry Case Review