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Magnum RD Short Sleeve Shirts

by Randall

December 9th, 2011

I have been wearing a Magnum RD short-sleeved shirt from the Magnum Boot Company that I think will interest you. Magnum long ago branched out from boots and now makes an entire line of footwear, apparel, and accessories.

The shirt I am testing is a Desert Sage colored short-sleeved shirt fit for covert carry or regular off-duty wear. The RD stands for “rapid deployment.” It is styled like any other high end sporting shirt you might find at a retailer, but it some great bonus features.

The 5.4 oz ripstop cotton material is a nice compromise, having both a light weight and durability. I think this shirt can go from either hot to chilly temperatures without complaint from the wearer.

It is cut generously, which is terrific for concealed firearms carry. It does not have a breakaway side, like some firearms-intended shirts, but that is a function I am not fond of anyway.

Categories Reviews
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CRKT M16-14ZSF Folding Tanto Knife Review

by Aaron

December 7th, 2011

Recently I purchased a CRKT M16-14ZSF knife. I happened to be on a military base (no tax) and the price was great (just under $30). I was looking for a nice field and duty knife and I really appreciated what this knife had to offer.

This knife from Columbia River Knife and Tool (CRKT) is designed by Kit Carson. Kit Carson is famous in the knife building community for the quality of his knife designs. Carson retired as a Sergeant Major from the Army, and has been designing knives for over 30 years. He has been full-time in knife designing since 1993.

The M16-14ZSF is a progression of the CRKT M16 series of knives. There are several design features that stand out on this knife, but CRKT fans will see some similarities with other M16 knives as well. CRKT advertises this knife as Kit Carson’s “folding fixed blade”. This has a Desert Camo handle, but a similar knife (the M21-14ZSF) comes with a black handle. The overall weight of this knife is 6.4 oz. (6.3 oz. on the CRKT website). This knife really feels good in my hands, especially considering its size.

As you read you will find several differences in specifications for this knife. The reason for this is I’m comparing the CRKT packaging of this knife with information from the CRKT website. It is possible that since I purchased this knife on a military base that there are slight differences in the military version and the civilian model, though that is speculation on my part.

Categories Knives, Reviews
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Diamondback DB9 Pistol Review

by Randall

November 7th, 2011

Would you like to pocket carry a small pistol, but are put off by the cries of “Don’t carry a mousegun!” We have found you an option in the Diamondback DB9—a new pistol in 9mm that offers, well, less.

The Diamondback DB9 is a polymer-framed pistol in 9 X 19mm that tugs at your pocket to the tune of only 11 ounces, unloaded. That is three to four fewer ounces than other lightweight 9mm pistols or most .38 cal. Airweight revolvers.

The DB9 is sized more like a gun throwing a .380 ACP downrange than the much more potent 9mm Parabellum. Its dimensions are a slim .80” in width, 5.6” in length, and 4” in height.

I found the DB9 to follow through on its promise to be an easily carried, reliable 9mm firearm for off-duty or secondary on-duty carry. And, it is Made in America.

Categories Firearms, Reviews
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5.11 Taclite Coyote Boots Review

by Randall

October 25th, 2011

I put over 30 miles of hiking into a pair of 5.11 Coyote Taclite 6” Desert Boots while on an R&R trip to southern Utah. Intended as a desert tactical boot, the Taclites will serve well in most all mobile situations.

5.11 literature states the boots need no break-in period. To this, I can attest. They went from the box to trail with no aggravation. These hiking boots are extremely light, but have a substantial amount of suede leather in their outers for durability.

Some of the popular lightweight “boots” found on the market today are little more than glorified running shoes. I found the Taclites to have a more sturdy construction, with enough 1200D denier nylon for good ventilation, but not so much that they would snag or tear easily.

Categories Gear and Holsters, Reviews
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Bushnell Equinox Night Vision Review

by Randall

September 28th, 2011

Night Vision (NV) can be a powerful tool for law enforcement during lightless conditions. Some officers are able to use department-issued night vision devices. The vast majority of officers do not have this luxury. This review of the Bushnell Equinox night vision monocular looks at an inexpensive option for officers who want to purchase their own gear.

There are many patrol scenarios in which you would not want to use a flashlight to get a look around in the dark. A NV instrument can allow you to passively scan your area without giving away your presence.

I am testing an Equinox Gen 1 night vision monocular from Bushnell Outdoor Products that an average patrol officer or deputy can purchase, without spending thousands of dollars, and which provides the basic advantages of night-adapted sight.

From the approach to armed subject call, to surveillance, to large building and area searches, night vision’s usefulness is dictated by the ingenuity of the operator. The Equinox unit I have can serve an officer well in all these situations.

Categories Gear and Holsters, Reviews
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