23 Jan 25

2025 SHOT Show, Third day:

SIMO (Safe, Integrated, Multi-mode, Operation) is a sophisticated training device, all incorporated into a electronics-filled substitute pistol magazine.

I saw a demonstration this morning, and I suspect this device will be picked-up by all the major manufacturers.

“Level Five” of the SHOT Show venue is the place where many sophisticated parts and accessory manufacturers display their wares.  Most attendees never even get up there!

Today on Level Five, I saw an amazing demonstration of Autodesk Fusion Design and Manufacturing software.  This represents the wave of the future, no doubt!  Contact Brad Tallis at cadedllc.com

I can’t keep track of all the tactical flashlight manufacturers, but I carry a Fenix PDRPro, and it is very satisfactory.  Output is nearly 3k lumens.

Nightcore’s MH12Pro puts-out in excess of 3k lumens.  Also recommended.

Sig’s new “Fuse” pistol is a 365 with an extended barrel and slide.  It is a double-column pistol, but thin and slick.  Resembles a G48.  Nice choice for concealed carry!

POA (Patriot Ordnance Factory) introduced their “Revolution Rifle” several years ago.  I have a copy, and it is wonderful!  It is a rifle nearly as light and compact as an M4, but chambered for 308.

Today, I handled their “Rogue,” even lighter and handier (still in 308).  Then, I handled their “LMR Base,” a no-frills version, that I liked even more!

The LMR Base is non gas-adjustable (over-gassed at the factory) utility rifle in 308 caliber and under $1k.  This is the one I recommend!

In the realm of rifle optics, I examined EOTech’s “Vudu” 3×9 scope.  Not exactly a LPVO, but it is very compact and short.  Combined with a coaxial non-magnifying RDO, the package is fast and provides the downrange detail you need, without getting “lost.”

I may set-up one of my urban rifles with this combination and take it into the field for testing!

There are more folks purporting to make M4s than I can ever keep track of, but among the least expensive is the Radical Firearms RF-15.  It features a full-length rail and adjustable stock, all for under $500.00.

PTR, makers (in America) of the famous roller-delayed blowback PTR91 Rifle (ascending from the H&K 91, German G3, and ultimately the Spanish CETME) now feature the same system in 223 caliber, called the PTR63.  I handled a copy today, and while proportionately smaller and lighter than the PTR91, it handled the same way.

The PTR63 will compete directly Marcolmar’s roller-delayed blowback rifle, also in 223

Caracal pistols got off to a rocky start several years ago, but their current “Enhanced F” model (now made in the USA) that I handled today is nicely put together.  Double-column, polymer framed, size of a G19, the Enhanced F can be had with standard iron sights, or “Quick Sights,” where the rear sight is moved up in front of the ejection port, and precision is sacrificed for speed.

Caracal is also making their version of the H&K416.  Gas system is fully-serviceable from the front (much like the FAL)!

Last day is tomorrow!

/John