If you're in town that weekend, stop by the check us out, and say 'hello'!
Matt
Sunday, August 17, 2014
Southern Classic Gun & Knife Show (Sept. 6 - 7, 2014)
If you're in town that weekend, stop by the check us out, and say 'hello'!
Matt
Survival Sunday: Know Where You Live...and then some
For our first post on the subject of preparedness, I want to talk about location, location, location. In prepping, too, is it that important.
Where you live is a pretty fundamental part of (not only) you but also how you will handle and prepare for emergencies and disasters. While it isn't set in stone, or necessarily exclusive to one place, it's something that many of us can't change. (If you CAN change it, and you are "survival-inclined", you probably will be or have been meticulous in the selection of your locale.) Because it can't be changed easily, we have to keep our little corner of the world in mind when it comes to establishing our preparedness. I divide such considerations into two categories: Risks and Resources.
Risks
After living somewhere long enough, you can get an understanding of the types of challenges that particular place presents. These could be simple, everyday, mundane, Risks like a long (distance or time) commute, or they could be more severe characteristics like a susceptibility to natural disasters. In either case, these factors must be accounted for when prepping. That long commute is an inconvenience, but is it something worse if you need to get home - or away from home - quickly in an emergency? Does it also mean you're far removed from emergency services? And if your area experiences natural disasters, will you be seeing winter storms, tropical weather events, tornadoes, geological activity (earthquakes and volcanoes)? A lot of people don't live "away from it all"; they live in big towns, cities, and megalopolises. The urbanites, along with their country-dwelling cousins, will also have to consider man-made or human Risks like run-of-the-mill crime and bigger problems like infrastructure failure or even civil unrest. Knowing the Risks to which you might be exposed in your area is critical to preparing effectively. If you live in Florida, like I do, it might not make sense to devote much of your time and energy to preparing for a blizzard (more on that later). You can instead focus on those things most likely to affect you.
Resources
Here's the good news - along with the Risks that every place presents, there are Resources. Preps and plans that work with the surrounding Resources - rather than simply against the Risks - are usually the most effective and often more efficient to setup and maintain. Furthermore, the same factors of a location that explain the Risks also offer Resources. On the coast, you might be in the path of tropical storms and hurricanes, but you're surrounded by the bounty of the ocean. In a remote location, you might be far from emergency services, but (with proper security) crime may never find your door. But Resources aren't restricted to the natural variety. As dicey as a city could be in a crisis, your nearby friends and neighbors could prove to be invaluable, and close proximity to emergency or other services could be more than a convenience. Resources are probably among the things that drew you to a location in the first place. In that way, you know the good things going for where you are. If you're inclined, you can easily incorporate those things at hand into your strategy for surviving and thriving in a variety of situations. It's all about "accentuating positives" to arrive at an application of preparedness that works for you.
Now...Throw All That Out The Window
As I mentioned, I live in Florida. I have lived in Florida for decades. I've seen a great many parts of Florida. I've been through tropical storms and hurricanes and afternoon flash floods and tourist seasons, but I don't think I would have said that I would need to prepare for an infrastructure-crippling ice storm in Florida. That being said, earlier this year, my part of "the Sunshine State" was in the clutches of an infrastructure-crippling ice storm. Black ice. Places losing power. Road and bridge closures. Services cut back or suspended altogether. That doesn't happen here! But it did. And it taught me that, no matter how well you might know a place, it can always surprise you. While a particular Risk may not appear on your radar for where you live, give it at least some thought - after you address all the things that will easily come to mind. It might seen crazy today, but you'll be happy you thought of the "not in a hundred years" thing that just might pop-up. In the same way, as you consider the less likely Risks, you might find a plethora of initially-unseen Resources. In my case, because our local departments don't maintain an inventory of road salt or trucks to dispense it, they looked to a nearby supply of fine, gritty, material, to apply to area roads - beach sand.
Even with all the money and time in the world, I don't think a person can adequately prepare for everything or eliminate all the Risks around him. But preparedness isn't about completely removing every challenge and difficulty. It's about finding ways to lessen the impact of those Risks when they come about with your smarts, your gear, and the Resources around you.
- Matt
Where you live is a pretty fundamental part of (not only) you but also how you will handle and prepare for emergencies and disasters. While it isn't set in stone, or necessarily exclusive to one place, it's something that many of us can't change. (If you CAN change it, and you are "survival-inclined", you probably will be or have been meticulous in the selection of your locale.) Because it can't be changed easily, we have to keep our little corner of the world in mind when it comes to establishing our preparedness. I divide such considerations into two categories: Risks and Resources.
Risks
After living somewhere long enough, you can get an understanding of the types of challenges that particular place presents. These could be simple, everyday, mundane, Risks like a long (distance or time) commute, or they could be more severe characteristics like a susceptibility to natural disasters. In either case, these factors must be accounted for when prepping. That long commute is an inconvenience, but is it something worse if you need to get home - or away from home - quickly in an emergency? Does it also mean you're far removed from emergency services? And if your area experiences natural disasters, will you be seeing winter storms, tropical weather events, tornadoes, geological activity (earthquakes and volcanoes)? A lot of people don't live "away from it all"; they live in big towns, cities, and megalopolises. The urbanites, along with their country-dwelling cousins, will also have to consider man-made or human Risks like run-of-the-mill crime and bigger problems like infrastructure failure or even civil unrest. Knowing the Risks to which you might be exposed in your area is critical to preparing effectively. If you live in Florida, like I do, it might not make sense to devote much of your time and energy to preparing for a blizzard (more on that later). You can instead focus on those things most likely to affect you.
Resources
Here's the good news - along with the Risks that every place presents, there are Resources. Preps and plans that work with the surrounding Resources - rather than simply against the Risks - are usually the most effective and often more efficient to setup and maintain. Furthermore, the same factors of a location that explain the Risks also offer Resources. On the coast, you might be in the path of tropical storms and hurricanes, but you're surrounded by the bounty of the ocean. In a remote location, you might be far from emergency services, but (with proper security) crime may never find your door. But Resources aren't restricted to the natural variety. As dicey as a city could be in a crisis, your nearby friends and neighbors could prove to be invaluable, and close proximity to emergency or other services could be more than a convenience. Resources are probably among the things that drew you to a location in the first place. In that way, you know the good things going for where you are. If you're inclined, you can easily incorporate those things at hand into your strategy for surviving and thriving in a variety of situations. It's all about "accentuating positives" to arrive at an application of preparedness that works for you.
Now...Throw All That Out The Window
As I mentioned, I live in Florida. I have lived in Florida for decades. I've seen a great many parts of Florida. I've been through tropical storms and hurricanes and afternoon flash floods and tourist seasons, but I don't think I would have said that I would need to prepare for an infrastructure-crippling ice storm in Florida. That being said, earlier this year, my part of "the Sunshine State" was in the clutches of an infrastructure-crippling ice storm. Black ice. Places losing power. Road and bridge closures. Services cut back or suspended altogether. That doesn't happen here! But it did. And it taught me that, no matter how well you might know a place, it can always surprise you. While a particular Risk may not appear on your radar for where you live, give it at least some thought - after you address all the things that will easily come to mind. It might seen crazy today, but you'll be happy you thought of the "not in a hundred years" thing that just might pop-up. In the same way, as you consider the less likely Risks, you might find a plethora of initially-unseen Resources. In my case, because our local departments don't maintain an inventory of road salt or trucks to dispense it, they looked to a nearby supply of fine, gritty, material, to apply to area roads - beach sand.
Even with all the money and time in the world, I don't think a person can adequately prepare for everything or eliminate all the Risks around him. But preparedness isn't about completely removing every challenge and difficulty. It's about finding ways to lessen the impact of those Risks when they come about with your smarts, your gear, and the Resources around you.
- Matt
Monday, July 21, 2014
Images from the Most Recent Gun Show
We had a great time at the June show. Here's some scenes of our time there!
Don't let Nick's goofy grin fool you: he was working very hard to get everything setup.
We keep getting bigger at every show. This time we got three tables and
could readily peddle our wares to customers in both aisles
When you can't build out, build up! We're very proud of our Magpul display -
as evidenced by the cheesy grin on that short, bald guy (me).
AMMO! While it's gotten easier to find, we wanted to bring some to the show.
And you KNOW we brought the goods - Hornady Critical Duty and Zombie Max.
Just as they have been online, folks were very interested
in Magpul's "Stealth Gray" color in a variety of items.
At the start of Day Two, Nick is still smiling,
but it looks like Brian needs the sign to stay vertical
Brian is a really great guy - despite hanging out with a character that looks like that.
- Matt
Tuesday, July 1, 2014
Price Drops and July Promo Offer
First of all, we've dropped prices on virtually EVERYTHING! These adjustments come just after the first anniversary of our first sale as Southeast Outfitters. One of our most important goals has always been (and will continue to be) to bring our Customers great products, at great prices. We thought it would be a fitting tribute to show our Customers how committed we are to upholding that ideal.
To honor our nation's anniversary this month, we've put together a promo offer - that runs for the entire month! Those who follow us on Twitter and those who have 'liked' our Facebook Page can find a coupon code valid from 7/1 - 7/31.
- Matt
To honor our nation's anniversary this month, we've put together a promo offer - that runs for the entire month! Those who follow us on Twitter and those who have 'liked' our Facebook Page can find a coupon code valid from 7/1 - 7/31.
- Matt
Sunday, June 15, 2014
New Magpul Inventory!
May was a HUGE month for Southeast Outfitters. Between checking out new products, shipping orders, and keeping the lights on, there's barely been a moment to catch my breath. Today, though, I have a moment.
We've brought in a lot of great stuff from Magpul. This isn't a complete list, but here's a rundown of some of the highlights:
Field Case - iPhone 5/5s (in Black, Flat Dark Earth, Olive Drab Green, and Pink)
MSA - MOE Sling Attachment
RSA - Rail Sling Attachment
MOE Hand Guard (Carbine-Length)
MOE Hand Guard (Mid-Length)
Original Magpul (The product that started it all!)
XTM Enhanced Panels (in Black, Flat Dark Earth, Olive Drab Green, Foliage Green, Stealth Gray, and Pink)
XTM Hand Stop Kit
MS3 Single QD Sling
MOE Grip
MOE+ Grip
CTR Carbine Stock
ACS Carbine Stock
ACS-L Carbine Stock
PRS Precision-Adjustable Stock (for AR15/M16)
UBR Collapsible Stock
Among the new items listed above, and a number of other already-stocked products, we've been bringing more of Magpul's "Stealth Gray" color offering. It's subtle, but adds a nice contrast against a sleek black rifle. Obviously, all of them come with the same brilliant engineering, superior quality, and stellar operational function, that's common to all of Magpul's products - just in a more unique aesthetic. Check it out, because "Flat Dark Earth" is sooo last year. (Nah. It's still pretty cool, too.)
- Matt
We've brought in a lot of great stuff from Magpul. This isn't a complete list, but here's a rundown of some of the highlights:
Field Case - iPhone 5/5s (in Black, Flat Dark Earth, Olive Drab Green, and Pink)
MSA - MOE Sling Attachment
RSA - Rail Sling Attachment
MOE Hand Guard (Carbine-Length)
MOE Hand Guard (Mid-Length)
Original Magpul (The product that started it all!)
XTM Enhanced Panels (in Black, Flat Dark Earth, Olive Drab Green, Foliage Green, Stealth Gray, and Pink)
XTM Hand Stop Kit
MS3 Single QD Sling
MOE Grip
MOE+ Grip
CTR Carbine Stock
ACS Carbine Stock
ACS-L Carbine Stock
PRS Precision-Adjustable Stock (for AR15/M16)
UBR Collapsible Stock
Among the new items listed above, and a number of other already-stocked products, we've been bringing more of Magpul's "Stealth Gray" color offering. It's subtle, but adds a nice contrast against a sleek black rifle. Obviously, all of them come with the same brilliant engineering, superior quality, and stellar operational function, that's common to all of Magpul's products - just in a more unique aesthetic. Check it out, because "Flat Dark Earth" is sooo last year. (Nah. It's still pretty cool, too.)
- Matt
Tuesday, April 29, 2014
Product Review - Magpul PMAG 10 GEN M3
For a very large part of the country, it may seem silly or unnecessary to own 10-round magazines for an AR-15. One of the key points and selling features of the platform is the greater capacity over older alternatives like bolt- or lever-action rifles. For other parts of the country, a 10-round magazine is all citizens can aspire to own. Whether you live in a gun-friendly state or jurisdiction or a more restrictive one, a 10-round magazine, particularly of a very high quality from a well-respected manufacturer, can be a very useful thing.
Magpul has been updating their line of legendary PMAGs (including the gold-standard PMAG 30) with the "GEN M3" treatment. In addition to the features we've all come to expect - like the stainless steel spring, anti-tilt follower, an internal geometry optimized for reliable feeding, and the simplicity of tool-less disassembly - the GEN M3 brings a redesigned and improved bolt catch, an enhanced texture and rib design for superior control in all environments and conditions, and a slimmer floorplate design that lends itself to better compatibility with tight mag pouches. The PMAG 10 GEN M3 is the 10-round variety of this generation.
Why a 10-round magazine, though? Why not (if you can) buy a standard capacity, 30-round magazine? Why not something really fun like a PMAG 40, so I can wait that much longer before changing mags? I see three fantastic reasons - one practical, one contextual, and one subjective.
First, a short, 10-round magazine, like the PMAG 10 GEN M3 is a very practical solution for bench-rest shooting or shooting with the rifle in a rest during scope sighting. A larger, standard capacity magazine can present challenges for bench-rest shooters due to its extension below the bottom of the receiver, and such length may entirely preclude the use of a rifle rest. The minimum extension of the PMAG 10 below the bottom of the receiver means bench-rest positions can be achieved more comfortably. Further, few rifle rests would have a problem with accommodating an AR-15 with a 10-round mag installed.
The next place Magpul's 10-round magazine shines is in the context of hunting. Many areas that permit use of an AR-15 for hunting will caveat that allowance with a restriction on the magazine capacity carried "in" the rifle when in the field. Pairing a PMAG 10 GEN M3 with a Magpul Minus 5-Round Limiter, makes for a great combo for AR-15 hunting. (Hunting with an AR-15, that is. Not hunting for AR-15s. But, let's face it - we're always hunting for another AR-15.)
Finally, and this could just be my subjective opinion, but a 10-round magazine is a great tool to promote - or require - self-control. At the range, it's really easy to burn through 30 rounds of ammunition quickly. (After all, that's what the AR-15 was designed to do.) Shooting with the PMAG 10 GEN M3 injects some intent into my shooting. When target shooting, I can practically a mantra like, "Take your time. You've only got 10 rounds." running through my head. And counting down from "10" is a lot easier than "30".
You may be fortunate enough to live in an area where magazine capacity for your AR-15 isn't an issue. Many of your fellow patriots are not so lucky. However, no matter your situation, shooting style, or application, you can't go wrong with adding a couple of Magpul's PMAG 10 GEN M3 magazines to your collection.
- Matt
Awww. It's like a little baby PMAG!
Magpul has been updating their line of legendary PMAGs (including the gold-standard PMAG 30) with the "GEN M3" treatment. In addition to the features we've all come to expect - like the stainless steel spring, anti-tilt follower, an internal geometry optimized for reliable feeding, and the simplicity of tool-less disassembly - the GEN M3 brings a redesigned and improved bolt catch, an enhanced texture and rib design for superior control in all environments and conditions, and a slimmer floorplate design that lends itself to better compatibility with tight mag pouches. The PMAG 10 GEN M3 is the 10-round variety of this generation.
Why a 10-round magazine, though? Why not (if you can) buy a standard capacity, 30-round magazine? Why not something really fun like a PMAG 40, so I can wait that much longer before changing mags? I see three fantastic reasons - one practical, one contextual, and one subjective.
First, a short, 10-round magazine, like the PMAG 10 GEN M3 is a very practical solution for bench-rest shooting or shooting with the rifle in a rest during scope sighting. A larger, standard capacity magazine can present challenges for bench-rest shooters due to its extension below the bottom of the receiver, and such length may entirely preclude the use of a rifle rest. The minimum extension of the PMAG 10 below the bottom of the receiver means bench-rest positions can be achieved more comfortably. Further, few rifle rests would have a problem with accommodating an AR-15 with a 10-round mag installed.
The next place Magpul's 10-round magazine shines is in the context of hunting. Many areas that permit use of an AR-15 for hunting will caveat that allowance with a restriction on the magazine capacity carried "in" the rifle when in the field. Pairing a PMAG 10 GEN M3 with a Magpul Minus 5-Round Limiter, makes for a great combo for AR-15 hunting. (Hunting with an AR-15, that is. Not hunting for AR-15s. But, let's face it - we're always hunting for another AR-15.)
Finally, and this could just be my subjective opinion, but a 10-round magazine is a great tool to promote - or require - self-control. At the range, it's really easy to burn through 30 rounds of ammunition quickly. (After all, that's what the AR-15 was designed to do.) Shooting with the PMAG 10 GEN M3 injects some intent into my shooting. When target shooting, I can practically a mantra like, "Take your time. You've only got 10 rounds." running through my head. And counting down from "10" is a lot easier than "30".
You may be fortunate enough to live in an area where magazine capacity for your AR-15 isn't an issue. Many of your fellow patriots are not so lucky. However, no matter your situation, shooting style, or application, you can't go wrong with adding a couple of Magpul's PMAG 10 GEN M3 magazines to your collection.
- Matt
Thursday, April 24, 2014
Introducing the Monthly Poll!
In lieu of a Product Review this week, we're proud to debut our new Monthly Customer Poll!
We hope that this will be a way to involve our Customers in our business. Over time, we'll be soliciting poll responses to help decide what great product to offer next or find out what kind of outdoor adventures interest you most.
With last week's review of the Lancer L5AWM still in mind, our inaugural poll is: What is you favorite AR-15 magazine?
- Matt
We hope that this will be a way to involve our Customers in our business. Over time, we'll be soliciting poll responses to help decide what great product to offer next or find out what kind of outdoor adventures interest you most.
With last week's review of the Lancer L5AWM still in mind, our inaugural poll is: What is you favorite AR-15 magazine?
- Matt
Wednesday, April 16, 2014
Product Review - Lancer Systems L5 Advanced Warfighter Magazine
Before and after Magpul debuted their venerable PMAG 30 (including the latest generation), AR shooters have sought a reliable and durable magazine that improves upon the standard G.I. mag. Members of the current line of PMAGs are the standards against which others are judged, and many are found inferior in terms of reliability, durability, ergonomics, weight, or a myriad of other reasons. Some, though, are excellent contenders.
Relatively new on the scene with a polymer AR magazine is Lancer Systems with their L5 Advanced Warfighter Magazine (L5AWM). Specializing in composites and other "materials-science-based" solutions, Lancer Systems was well-equipped to produce a polymer magazine. Really, "polymer" is a bit of a misnomer; the L5AWM is a hybrid with a combination of materials used in the manufacture of its largest components. Unlike a Prius, though, this is one hybrid you'll be proud to tell you hunting buddies about.
Lancer Systems describes the L5AWM as the perfect blend of the "reliability of a steel magazine, the durability of a polymer magazine and the weight of an aluminum magazine." The top of the magazine's extremely durable polymer body is tightly embraced by a permanently attached steel feed lip assembly hardened to remove any concern of the crucial feeding interface losing dependability from long-term, loaded storage.
The bottom portion of that polymer body - the area of the magazine protruding from the rifle when loaded - is enhanced with some aggressive stippling to make manipulating the magazine worry-free - even with the greasiest, dirtiest, slimiest hands. I'll admit that I had concerns with the relative "smoothness" of the polymer body compared to other polymer magazines, but that stippling allows for a very sure grip. Running through the body of the magazine is a stainless steel spring pushing a non-tilt follower.
To be sure of our thoughts about this magazine, we sent Nick out to the range to get a feel for the L5AWM in action. I was hoping for an insightful review, but his report was pretty boring. Rounds loaded easily into the magazine. The magazine seated firmly into the rifle. Rounds cycled flawlessly out of the magazine and through the rifle. The bolt was positively held open after the last round. The magazine dropped smoothly out of the rifle with the magazine release. I really don't know what I expected, but perfect function without failure or hang-up is a great kind of "boring" to me.
A lot of companies have tried to cash in on the success of others. Magul struck gold with their entry into the polymer magazine market, but that type of success has eluded many other companies. The Lancer Systems L5 Advanced Warfighter Magazine is different. It capitalizes on some very smart and novel features to separate itself from the pack. Is it a revolution of the polymer magazine? Maybe. Is it a refinement? Probably. I can tell you with all certainty, though, that it's a really great magazine.
- Matt
With most folks running PMAGs, slap one of these in your rifle,
and people will know that you're a free-thinker.
Relatively new on the scene with a polymer AR magazine is Lancer Systems with their L5 Advanced Warfighter Magazine (L5AWM). Specializing in composites and other "materials-science-based" solutions, Lancer Systems was well-equipped to produce a polymer magazine. Really, "polymer" is a bit of a misnomer; the L5AWM is a hybrid with a combination of materials used in the manufacture of its largest components. Unlike a Prius, though, this is one hybrid you'll be proud to tell you hunting buddies about.
Lancer Systems describes the L5AWM as the perfect blend of the "reliability of a steel magazine, the durability of a polymer magazine and the weight of an aluminum magazine." The top of the magazine's extremely durable polymer body is tightly embraced by a permanently attached steel feed lip assembly hardened to remove any concern of the crucial feeding interface losing dependability from long-term, loaded storage.
If you need more texture than is found on the L5AWM,
I'm not sure how you turn door knobs or hold onto anything.
To be sure of our thoughts about this magazine, we sent Nick out to the range to get a feel for the L5AWM in action. I was hoping for an insightful review, but his report was pretty boring. Rounds loaded easily into the magazine. The magazine seated firmly into the rifle. Rounds cycled flawlessly out of the magazine and through the rifle. The bolt was positively held open after the last round. The magazine dropped smoothly out of the rifle with the magazine release. I really don't know what I expected, but perfect function without failure or hang-up is a great kind of "boring" to me.
A lot of companies have tried to cash in on the success of others. Magul struck gold with their entry into the polymer magazine market, but that type of success has eluded many other companies. The Lancer Systems L5 Advanced Warfighter Magazine is different. It capitalizes on some very smart and novel features to separate itself from the pack. Is it a revolution of the polymer magazine? Maybe. Is it a refinement? Probably. I can tell you with all certainty, though, that it's a really great magazine.
- Matt
Wednesday, April 9, 2014
Product Review - Bravo Company BCMGUNFIGHTER Charging Handle
Being located in northwest Florida, we're surrounded by military bases, airfields, forts, and other installations. Over the years, each of us has gotten to know a lot of our neighbors in the armed services. One fellow, at a recent gun show, gave one of the best endorsements I've heard for the Bravo Company BCMGUNFIGHTER Charging Handle; he slyly said that it would be a shame if the charging handle "fell out" of his service rifle, and the armorer had to replace it with one of these. Wry humor about misplacing government equipment aside, such a comment from an American warrior in a shooting job speaks to the respect and admiration professionals have for this product.
When it comes down to it, the stock charging handle will get the job done, but it leaves a lot to be desired. Either hand can operate the stock charging handle, but the shooter has to significantly re-position the rifle to do so, because it needs to be pulled straight back with even pressure on both sides of the handle. Dainty fingers are not a requirement for operating an AR, but "sausage-ier" digits or gloved hands could slip off the stock handle; also, the stock handle doesn't allow much room for manipulating the handle around an optic. These aren't problems with the BCMGUNFIGHTER.
I've had a BCMGUNFIGHTER Charging Handle on my AR for a while - specifically, the "Mod 4" model. It was one of my first upgrades, and I've never looked back. Installation, even for an AR newbie, was a snap; if you can clean your AR (Pro tip: Clean your AR sometime.), you can install this charging handle. Replacing the stock handle, the BCMGUNFIGHTER allows for quicker and easier one-handed operation as it's designed in a way to allow asymmetrical manipulation. With the shooting hand still in place, the shooter can charge the rifle without having to move it far from being shouldered. The enhanced latch also provides a lot of real estate for getting a good hold on the handle for bigger or gloved hands or if interference with an optic is a concern.
The BCMGUNFIGHTER Charging Handle comes in a variety of sizes for the AR-15 including a fully ambidextrous model. Our favorite variant is the "Mod 4" model because it's the just-right "Mama Bear" size compared to the near-standard "Mod 5" or the even larger "Mod 3" ("Papa Bear"-sized) model. All are machined from 7075 T6 Billet aluminum alloy and sport a hard coat anodized finish.
You may not have to lace up your boots and go to work with a rifle, but you can trust the opinion of the brave professionals who do. Service men and women know what they want in a tool that their very lives depend on, and they want the Bravo Company BCMGUNFIGHTER Charging Handle.
- Matt
If you want to know what's good on a car, (try to) ask The Stig.
If you want to know what's good on a rifle, ask an American soldier.
If you want to know what's good on a rifle, ask an American soldier.
When it comes down to it, the stock charging handle will get the job done, but it leaves a lot to be desired. Either hand can operate the stock charging handle, but the shooter has to significantly re-position the rifle to do so, because it needs to be pulled straight back with even pressure on both sides of the handle. Dainty fingers are not a requirement for operating an AR, but "sausage-ier" digits or gloved hands could slip off the stock handle; also, the stock handle doesn't allow much room for manipulating the handle around an optic. These aren't problems with the BCMGUNFIGHTER.
I've had a BCMGUNFIGHTER Charging Handle on my AR for a while - specifically, the "Mod 4" model. It was one of my first upgrades, and I've never looked back. Installation, even for an AR newbie, was a snap; if you can clean your AR (Pro tip: Clean your AR sometime.), you can install this charging handle. Replacing the stock handle, the BCMGUNFIGHTER allows for quicker and easier one-handed operation as it's designed in a way to allow asymmetrical manipulation. With the shooting hand still in place, the shooter can charge the rifle without having to move it far from being shouldered. The enhanced latch also provides a lot of real estate for getting a good hold on the handle for bigger or gloved hands or if interference with an optic is a concern.
The "Mod 4" model of the BCMGUNFIGHTER Charging Handle
The BCMGUNFIGHTER Charging Handle comes in a variety of sizes for the AR-15 including a fully ambidextrous model. Our favorite variant is the "Mod 4" model because it's the just-right "Mama Bear" size compared to the near-standard "Mod 5" or the even larger "Mod 3" ("Papa Bear"-sized) model. All are machined from 7075 T6 Billet aluminum alloy and sport a hard coat anodized finish.
You may not have to lace up your boots and go to work with a rifle, but you can trust the opinion of the brave professionals who do. Service men and women know what they want in a tool that their very lives depend on, and they want the Bravo Company BCMGUNFIGHTER Charging Handle.
- Matt
Friday, March 21, 2014
Product Review - Magpul SGA Stock AND Magpul MOE Forend
We had another great outing to a Gun Show recently. In
addition to our business success, I had a personal triumph in scooping up a
Mossberg 500 Cruiser for an incredible price. I hadn’t really been looking, but
it was a deal I couldn’t pass up. The moment I had the new gun in-hand, though,
I began to scheme.
This wasn’t my first Mossberg 500, but I wanted to further
distinguish my new acquaintance from my previous friends. As a Magpul fanboy
With a penchant for the superior products from Magpul, I set about outfitting
this “Mossy”.
If you're reading this 20 years in the future, I will STILL be losing my mind about how good this deal was.
Adding the Magpul SGA Stock was a no-brainer. I prefer the
ability to shoulder a scatter gun over the more compact size that a pistol grip
provides. I also like to look down the sights (or single bead) of a shotgun,
and that’s not really something you can do easily with a pistol grip AND keep all your
teeth. I’ve swapped pistol grips and stocks on Mossy’s before, and this was
just as easy. The hex wrench supplied with the stock made short work of the supplied hex-head
bolt. The only trick was the angle, but it was a small price to pay for a bolt
much shorter than most stock bolts (e.g., the long bolt provided with the OEM
stock). An easy to install (and remove, if needed) cap covers the bolt hole to
create a smooth, near-seamless back to the grip of the stock. I left the
stock…well…”stock”, and chose not to install any of the four optional spacers.
For a shotgun of this type, I want the shortest length-of pull. If I choose to
install a spacer (or spacers), I can add up to a handful of inches. I’ll also
keep the out-of-the-box cheekrest though higher cheekrest upgrades are
available from Magpul. I know I’ll add a sling eventually, but I didn’t want to
get too wild all at once; I kinda want a project gun for a while. When I do add
a sling, the SGA stock offers a number of mounting locations and options
including quick-detach (QD) mounts (not included).
My ARs sport Magpul’s MOE Handguards, and I like their look
and feel. When Magpul released the MOE Forend for Mossberg shotguns, I knew I
had to have that, too. As with the AR hanguards, this is a smart upgrade. The
forward and rear hand-stops keep you from over-pumping (Is that a thing?) when
you’re running the shotgun hard. The texture – much like all of Magpul’s
polymer products – keeps your hand practically glued to the thing. There are
several attachment points for Magpul-specific accessories or rail
sections for virtually whatever else you want. The installation was easy with the included forend castle nut wrench (which is practically worth the price of the
part anyway), but I add a word of caution here: As the MOE Forend was created
and is manufactured with the Mossberg 590 in mind it MAY NOT FIT your shotgun.
The forend will only fit Mossberg 500s with the longer (7 ¾”) action slide tube. This
wasn't a problem with the Cruiser, but I did check it on another Mossberg 500
(a "Field/Security Combo") and found it would not work. Check your 500’s action slide tube length before you give it a try.
After the installations, I gave the improved Cruiser a few
good pumps, and the satisfying “chick-chucks” confirmed that everything was
tightly affixed and where it needed to be. The only thing left was the best
thing – range time.
Because it was the first time out with the new Cruiser, I
went through my initial function checks. Pleased that this Mossberg was, so
far, functioning flawlessly, I thumbed in a shell (Winchester Universal 12-gauge, 2 ¾”, 7 ½ shot) for the first live test. While the pump slid along the magazine, my
hand never budged on the MOE Forend, and the SGA Stock stayed firmly rooted against
my shoulder. With a shell chambered, I squeezed the trigger, and the Cruiser –
built by Mossberg and dressed in Magpul – roared to glorious life in my hands.
It could have just been the excitement of a new gun (Who
can’t relate to that?), but there seemed to be less felt recoil despite the
Cruiser’s shorter barrel and lighter weight when compared to other Mossberg 12-gauges
I've used in the past; other shotguns I've used would have had me writing this
review one-handed with my arm in a sling. (Not really…but sorta.) Further, the
secure grip of the forend and stock did well to tame the muzzle rise or jump
that a 12-gauge can create.
The beginning-of-a-finished product. Look for more in the future.
The superficial “cool factor” of the way the Magpul products
look, and the theory behind them, definitely piqued my interest. The easy
installation and function told me that I was going to be in for a treat. But
the final(ish) product – in use, sending clouds of metal down range – sold me all
over again. Between its good looks and performance, the only thing this Mossberg is friendly toward is the user!
Thursday, February 20, 2014
Southern Classic Gun & Knife Show (Feb. 22 - 23, 2014)
Preparations are in FULL SWING for our second outing to the Southern Classic Gun & Knife Show in Fort Walton Beach, Florida. This time around, we've upgraded; we're bringing two tables, a bigger and better display, and more awesome products from Magpul, Troy, and more!
Our first appearance at this show was in December, and we had a great time meeting and talking to customers in the area and getting to know and network with the other vendors. It was a wonderful experience to start making a lot of new friends that we plan on working with in the future to bring our customers some really neat products from some local manufacturers.
Check out some pictures from our first trip to the show:
Our first appearance at this show was in December, and we had a great time meeting and talking to customers in the area and getting to know and network with the other vendors. It was a wonderful experience to start making a lot of new friends that we plan on working with in the future to bring our customers some really neat products from some local manufacturers.
Check out some pictures from our first trip to the show:
For our first trip to the show, we set up and manned a single table.
(from l to r) The guys of Southeast Outfitters - Brian, Nick, and Matt -
in varying degrees of scruffiness.
in varying degrees of scruffiness.
The Southern Classic Gun & Knife Show will be in Fort Walton Beach, Florida, on Saturday and Sunday, February 22 and 23, 2014 at the Northwest Florida Fairgrounds. The hours are Saturday, from 9:00AM to 5:00PM, and Sunday, from 10:00AM to 4:00PM. The Entry Fee is $7.00.
If you're in the area, and you want a fun time meeting good people, stop by and say 'hello'!
- Matt
- Matt
Friday, January 24, 2014
Product Review - Troy Ambidextrous Bolt Release
Some may tell you that the AR-15 is the “perfect rifle”.
Those who do are probably a little too free with the word “perfect”. It may be
“perfect” for some applications or people, but as the height of perfection for
rifles, it is not. That’s certainly not to say that it’s bad; the AR platform
is fantastic. Fortunately, due in no small part to the wonders of modern
manufacture and the customizable nature of the platform, it can be further
improved.
Enter Troy Industries. Founded on the principle of “making reliable,
innovative, over engineered products that will function without question”, Troy
makes some incredible accessories and upgrades for one of America’s most
favorite weapons. One of the most ingenious – and one of our best-sellers! – is
the Ambidextrous Bolt Release.
Small part. Big improvement.
From the first look, the quality of the “Ambi” is
immediately apparent. Its simple design, realized in hardened aircraft
aluminum, with subtle but positive serrations at key points, belies its
ingenuity. Once out of the bag, if you can push a button and turn an hex key
(packaged with every Ambidextrous Bolt Release), installation is a breeze;
(after ensuring the weapon is completely unloaded) open the upper receiver as
you would for standard cleaning, place the two-part “head” of the Ambi around
the existing bolt release, and tighten hex screw. Close the upper receiver and
admire your work. (Naturally, instructions are supplied with Ambi, but come
on…as I guy, I didn't read those.)
Before I installed mine, I must admit that I was concerned
that something entering the trigger guard would become (at best) a distraction
or (at worst) a point of failure in operation. Being narrow and situated close
to the receiver, there’s room for days – even when wearing most gloves. If you
have a non-standard or enhanced trigger guard that gives you even more room,
astronaut gloves might be the only thing that wouldn't work. It’s not an
annoyance or a distraction, and I hardly notice it until it’s time to have it
do its job.
The Troy Ambidextrous Bolt Release - installed.
And what a job it does! The concept behind the Ambidextrous
Bolt Release is in the name – to make available, for left-handed shooters, a
weapon control located on the left side of the rifle. Left-handed shooters
would find it awkward to access the standard bolt release with their left hand
on the grip. Meeting this objective creates an interesting benefit for
right-handed shooters, though: the bolt release operation can now be handled by
the shooting hand. This saves time for the support hand in magazine changes. Give
yourself more time between mag changes with a 40-rd. magazine, and your support
hand could get positively bored! As a right-handed shooter, a quick flick of
the Ambi’s tab in the trigger guard, and the rifle smoothly jumps back into
battery (especially if you've got a quality buffer tube spring).
You can hang a lot off an AR. Whether it’s cosmetic or
serving some auxiliary purpose, there are a LOT of options available. The AR
platform isn't the final word in rifle achievement; someday, something really cosmic
will find some way to surpass it. Right now, though, the Troy
Ambidextrous Bolt Release is an easy, effective way to push your AR a little
closer to perfection.
- Matt
Sunday, January 12, 2014
An Introduction to Southeast Outfitters
It hasn't even been a full year, but we are excited about the phenomenal first nine months of Southeast Outfitters. It's been an exciting challenge to open up in such a shaky economic time, but we know how privileged and blessed we have been. We also think that the way we can all prosper is through individual initiative and hard work. There have been ups and downs, surprises and windfalls, but we feel that there are three key features to Southeast Outfitters that set it apart:
Southeast Outfitters is a responsible business.
We feel incredible responsibility to our community, to our customers, and to ourselves. We feel that we must be the best business we can be for our friends and neighbors in the local economy. We feel that we must offer the finest products for the best prices we can and that we must be straightforward with our customers in all things. And we feel that, after the business was founded in such a careful and deliberate way, we must manage and grow Southeast Outfitters with that same care and deliberation.
We only sell quality products that we believe in.
Auction sites and other e-tailers are full of sellers offering fine products but trying to pass them off as something they're not. We are committed to creating and maintaining trust in the products we carry. No clones. No knock-offs. No imitations. Period. We may carry more economical alternatives to some items, but that's what they are - alternatives. We refuse to allow for any confusion as to what our customers are buying. If you buy Magpul's latest and greatest PMAG 30 GEN M3 or Troy's excellent Ambidextrous Bolt Release, then you can be certain that's what you'll get.
We want to grow, and we have a plan.
Today, we run this business online, and after our day jobs with a major IT company. Despite that, we process and ship virtually all of our orders in the same day or the next day. We devote every minute we can to building and improving this business that we have become so proud of, but we don't want to stop with a great website full of great stuff. We want our own brick-and-mortar store so our local customers can come in and check out our products first-hand. We want a top-notch shooting facility. (Indoors? Outdoors? Pistol? Rifle? Skeet and trap? Archery? All of it!) We want to offer gunsmithing services for maintenance, repairs, and custom work. We want to offer training services for shooting, reloading, and survival skills. We want to do all of that while continuing to offer a superior web experience and a dedication to all of our customers, near and far, in everything. As I've said before, we want to handle 'our baby' with care and deliberation. Our long term goals may take some time to achieve, but that's only because we want to do it right.
We plan to post here regularly and to offer new and different products as often as we possibly can, so we hope that you'll check back often to this blog, for more posts including product reviews, and to SoutheastOutfitters.com, to find that perfect piece to complete your next project, outing, or adventure!
- Matt
We only sell quality products that we believe in.
Auction sites and other e-tailers are full of sellers offering fine products but trying to pass them off as something they're not. We are committed to creating and maintaining trust in the products we carry. No clones. No knock-offs. No imitations. Period. We may carry more economical alternatives to some items, but that's what they are - alternatives. We refuse to allow for any confusion as to what our customers are buying. If you buy Magpul's latest and greatest PMAG 30 GEN M3 or Troy's excellent Ambidextrous Bolt Release, then you can be certain that's what you'll get.
We want to grow, and we have a plan.
Today, we run this business online, and after our day jobs with a major IT company. Despite that, we process and ship virtually all of our orders in the same day or the next day. We devote every minute we can to building and improving this business that we have become so proud of, but we don't want to stop with a great website full of great stuff. We want our own brick-and-mortar store so our local customers can come in and check out our products first-hand. We want a top-notch shooting facility. (Indoors? Outdoors? Pistol? Rifle? Skeet and trap? Archery? All of it!) We want to offer gunsmithing services for maintenance, repairs, and custom work. We want to offer training services for shooting, reloading, and survival skills. We want to do all of that while continuing to offer a superior web experience and a dedication to all of our customers, near and far, in everything. As I've said before, we want to handle 'our baby' with care and deliberation. Our long term goals may take some time to achieve, but that's only because we want to do it right.
We plan to post here regularly and to offer new and different products as often as we possibly can, so we hope that you'll check back often to this blog, for more posts including product reviews, and to SoutheastOutfitters.com, to find that perfect piece to complete your next project, outing, or adventure!
- Matt
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