Mega Arms Tactical Trigger Review

INTRO:
This is my review of the Mega Arms Tactical Trigger.

FEATURES:
• Single stage trigger with adjustments to minimize over-travel and trigger ‘creep’.

• Made from billet 8620 alloy steel then case hardened to 60Rc with a core hardness of 38Rc.

• Features a widened leading edge for comfort, and an appealing structural appearance.

• Mega Tactical Trigger yields an average 41/2 lb. pull with mill-spec. components.

• Finished in Black or thin density chrome.

• Furnished with precise installation instructions.

• 1.2 oz.

• MTT-801B (Black) M.S.R.P. $91

• MTT-801S (Chrome) M.S.R.P. $103

INITIAL IMPRESSION:
My first attempt to install the Mega Tactical Trigger on my Bushmaster lower didn’t go too well. The Bushmaster hammer did not work with the Mega Tactical Trigger. I then used a different hammer (I believe it is a DPMS Hammer), and it finally worked. This is one of the negatives about this trigger. I kind of wish Mega would supply a matching hammer with each trigger to take care of this potential problem.

SHOOTING IMPRESSIONS:
I’ve been a huge fan of the two stage triggers for a long time. I shoot very well with them and am very comfortable with them. At first I was reluctant to switch to the single stage triggers mainly because I was so comfortable with the two stage triggers. As per the instructions, I loaded up a couple of rounds in the magazine to test out to ensure the trigger was working properly. After a few test fires, I determined the trigger was good to go. I tested the Mega Arms Tactical Trigger by shooting some rapid fire shooting and some precision shooting. Shooting this trigger was very pleasant. The trigger pull was an estimated 4-5 lb pull. It is noticeably lighter than a stock AR15 Trigger, but heavier than my WOA tuned RRA 2-stage Trigger. There was some creep to the Mega Arms Tactical Trigger, which took me a few rounds to get used to, but once I got used to it, it was not a big deal. I was able to shoot pretty fast with this trigger and just as accurate as I was with my WOA tuned RRA, which surprised me.

CONCLUSION:
For the money, this is a very nice single stage trigger. There are two screws that you have to loctite, but I don’t see how they could ever move. I wouldn’t put these in the same class as other single stage triggers, but then again, these are nowhere near as expensive.

INSTALLATION VIDEO:
I found this great little installation video by Rainier Arms.

PICTURES:

Assembling an AR-15

UPPER RECEIVER:

LOWER RECEIVER:

Aimpoint Micro T-1 Review

INTRO:
This is my review of the Aimpoint Micro T-1.

Aimpoint Micro T-1 Red Dot Sight
I know these sights have been out for a while now and there have been several reviews on it, but this is the first time I bought one so I wanted to do a review on it.

FIRST IMPRESSION:
First, I really like how lightweight this sight is. It literally feels like I don’t have an optic on my AR. The next thing I noticed was how little field obstruction there is with it. When using a regular Aimpoint, I get that feeling that I’m looking through a roll of toilet paper, even though I always shoot with both eyes open. With the T-1, it is very clean, like an EOTech. The 4 MOA dot is not a big deal for me. This is a combat optic and I never had a problem with the 4 MOA Aimpoints in the past. Even the turrets and Turret Caps are pretty neat. The turrets have these two holes that you have to stick the supplied Micro Tool or just turn the Turret Caps over and use them.

PRO’S:
1. Light.
2. Rugged. If you don’t think these are durable, just watch the Daniel Defense Torture Test.
3. Battery life (5 years).

CON’s:
1. Price ($650.00). With most Aimpoints, they are priced a little too high IMHO. The only exception being the Aimpoint PRO.

CONCLUSION:
The Aimpoint T-1 is rapidly becoming my favorite red dot on the market. It is lightweight, rugged, and has the typical Aimpoint battery life.

SPECIFICATIONS:

Aimpoint Micro T-1 Red Dot Sight:

In response to the need for smaller and lighter tactical sights, Aimpoint is proud to introduce the new Micro T-1 electronic red-dot sight. Built to offer the same battle proven ruggedness as larger Aimpoint sights, the Micro T-1 is able to perform under extreme conditions while adding negligible weight to your weapon.

This new compact sight is suitable for use on rifles, carbines, shotguns, submachineguns and handguns. The Aimpoint Micro T-1 is ideal as a stand-alone sight, and can also be piggybacked on top of larger magnifying scopes, night vision, or thermal imaging optics. The Micro T-1 weighs in at only 3.6 ounces, and comes complete with a patent-pending integral Picatinny mount that is keyed into the sight body to absorb recoil.

The Micro T-1 is a 1X (non magnifying) parallax-free optic that features a 4 minute of angle (MOA) red dot for fast target acquisition. No tools are required to zero the sight, as the top of the caps covering the windage and elevation screws fit directly into holes on the adjustment screws to make the adjustment. The Micro T-1 is waterproof to 25 meters (80 feet) and tough enough to stand up to the worst field conditions. Optimized for use with all generations of night vision devices, the Micro T-1 features a manual adjustment switch with 6 night vision compatible settings and 7 daylight settings (including one extra bright setting for use in desert sunlight or with laser protection filters). Aimpoint s state-of-the-art ACET diode technology allows the Micro T-1 to operate continuously for over 5 years on a single CR-2032 battery. The Micro T-1 is a very exciting tactical optic not just because of its small size, but also due to its extreme versatility. Not only is the Micro T-1 a full-featured stand-alone combat optic, it can also be mounted on top of other magnifying optics, giving the operator dual capabilities to engage targets in a CQB situation as well as at longer ranges. Now, everyone can have the speed advantage of a red dot sight, no matter what type of weapon or primary optic they are carrying.

FEATURES:
Ideal for rifles, carbines, shotguns, submachine guns and handguns
Weight 3.7 oz. (105g) including mount
1X (non-magnifying) parallax free optic.
Compatible will all generations of Night Vision Devices (NVD)
6 night vision compatible settings and 7 daylight settings – one extra bright for use with laser protection glasses or in bright desert sunlight.
Integral Picatinny-style base allows easy attachment to any rail.
Patent pending mount is keyed to the sight body to absorb recoil.
New ACET technology allows 50,000 hours (over 5 years) of constant operation from one battery
4 MOA dot
Hard anodized non-reflective finish.
Submersible to 80 feet (25 meters)
Precision adjustments for windage and elevation. Top of protective caps fits into holes on adjustment screws – no other tool required.
Use as a stand alone sight or “piggybacked” on larger magnifying, thermal, or night vision optics.
Unlimited field of view
Parallax-free and unlimited eye relief
Unaffected by extreme weather conditions
Rugged, durable construction
No hazardous materials
No laser emission that could be harmful to your eyes
Mechanical switch for speed and reliability
Increased aiming confidence

OPTICAL DATA:
System Passive Red Dot Collimator Reflex Sight
Magnification 1X
Eye relief Unlimited
Reticle, size 4 MOA
Optical coating Anti reflex and Band Pass coatings, NVD compatible
ELECTRONIC DATA
Battery Type One 3 V lithium battery, type CR2032, commercially available
Battery Life, typical Over 5 years of continuous (day and night) use at pos 8 of 12 and
Switch, dot brightness 12 settings – 4 NVD and 8 Daylight of which 1Extra Bright,
MECHANICAL DATA
Material housing Extruded, high strength aluminum, hard anodized
Surface finish Black to dark gray, non-glare finish
Material lens covers Rubber, black, non-glare finish
Adjustment Range ±1 m at 100 meters (±1 yds at 100 yds) in windage and elevation,
Mounting Keyed surface Patent pending mount keyed to the sight body to absorb recoil
DIMENSIONS
Length 62 mm (2.4)
Width/height 41 mm x 36 mm (1.6” x 1.4”) for sight only and 41 mm x 40 mm (1.6” x 1.6”) for sight with Mount
Ring width none
Weight 84 grams (3.0 oz) Sight only, 105 grams (3.7 oz) Sight with Mount
ENVIRONMENTAL DATA
Temperature Range -45 oC to +71 oC (-50 oF to +160 oF)
Water resistance 45 m (150 ft.)

PICTURES:

EOTech G23.FTS Gen 2 3x Magnifier Review.

INTRO:
This is my review of the EOTech G23.FTS Gen 2 3xMagnifier.

EOTech G23.FTS GEN 2 3xMAGNIFIER: ($550)

SPECIFICATIONS:

The 3X magnifier is an affordable magnified solution that will transition a fielded HWS into a lethal medium range optic. Superior light transmission and a large field of view helps this magnifier put the competition to shame. This rugged, streamlined optic offers split-second transitioning from CQB to medium range targeting.

This is the 2nd Generation of L3 EOTech magnifiers. It offers a half inch more eye relief, positions the windage and elevation adjustments inside of the optic rather than in the mount, less moving parts in the mount which makes the mount even more stable, and has a quick release throw lever on the bottom of the mount which allows the quick removal of both the optic and the mount. This magnifier aligns perfectly with standard height sights and comes with a 7mm riser to accommodate the 7mm raised sights.

3x magnifier with Flip-To-Side mount and quick detach. Works with all existing HWS units.

Mount:

• Length: 1.6″ (40.6mm)
• Height: 1.64″ (41.65mm) Clears common low profile flip up rear iron sights
• Weight: 4.5oz (128 grams)
• Color/Finish: Non reflective black with hard coat finish
• Flip Orientation: Ambidextrous mount to allow left or right flip
• Rail Interface: Fixed Picatinny with single mounting bolt.
• Magnifier Interface: Retained by ARMS® throw
• Optical Axis Adjustment: Horizontal and vertical adjustments within mount
• Works with either 3x magnifier

Magnifier:

• Magnification Fixed: 3.25X
• Eye Relief: 1.97″ (50mm)
• Length: 4.6″ (117mm)
• Weight: 11.9oz (372 grams)
• Temperature: -40 to 160 F
• Waterproof: 33 ft.
• Sealing: Fogproof internal optics
• Mount: MIL-STD-1913 rail
• Field of View: 6 degrees
• Retrofits to all HWS models
• Included 7mm riser for raised bases

SAMSON FLIP MOUNT:
The EOTech 3x Magnifier comes with the Samson Flip Mount, which has the ARMS #17 throw lever mount. I’ve had the Samson Flip Mount in the past and it is the fastest flip mount for the magnifiers. To flip the magnifier to the side, just use the left hand to press the flip lever. To bring the magnifier back upright again, just use your right hand to push it upright.

The Mount comes with a spacer so you can use with the 7mm base EOTechs or Aimpoints that have a lower 1/3 co-witness mount. If you have a regular EOTech or an Aimpoint with a regular co-witness, just remove the spacer.

The Samson Flip Mount uses the ARMS QD Throw Lever, which works fine for a Magnifier. I’m hoping in the future that Samson uses the new ARMS Throw Levers that are coming out.

EOTech 3xMAGNIFIER:
The EOTech 3xMagnifier has 1.97″ of eye relief, which is very good. The Magnifier also has the windage and elevation screws on the magnifier to center the magnifier with the reticle. In the past, EOTech had those adjustments on the mount. The glass is very good and on par with the Aimpoint 3xMagnifier. The magnification is listed as 3.25x, instead of 3x, which is a plus.

CONCLUSION:
For the money, this is the best 3xMagnifier package on the market. It comes with a great mount and with the included spacer, it will adapt the standard or lower 1/3 co-witness. 

PICTURES:

Front and Rear MBUS-Magpul Back-Up Sight-Gen 2 Review

INTRO:
This is my review of the Front and Rear MBUS-Magpul Back-Up Sight-Gen 2.

MBUS® – Magpul® Back-Up Sight – Front GEN 2 ($39.95)
DESCRIPTION:
The new MBUS (Magpul Back-Up Sight) GEN 2 is a low-cost, color injection molded, folding back-up sight. The MBUS Front Sight is adjustable for elevation and fits most Picatinny-railed hand guard equipped weapons, but is specifically tailored to the AR15/M16/M4 platform.
Made in U.S.A.

Features

• Impact resistant polymer construction provides light weight and resists operational abuse
• Spring-loaded flip up sight easily activated from either side or by pressing the top
• Detent and spring pressure keeps sight erect but allows for unobstructed folding under impact, etc.
• Clamps to most any MIL-STD-1913 Picatinny/STANAG 4694 railed hand guard and provides the same height-over-bore as standard A2 irons
• Protective wings shield the spring-locking A2 front sight post

Specifications

• MBUS – Front Gen 2
  • Weight, w/ hardware: 1.2 oz.
  • Height above rail, stowed: ~0.51 in.
  • Length, stowed: 2.6 in.
  • Length, deployed: 1.5 in.

NEW Features for GEN 2

• Reduced size for greater optics compatibility
• Spring-locking front sight post holds consistent elevation

NOTE: Cannot be mounted to a railed gas block due to excess heat issues.
Front MBUS must be mounted to a railed fore end on the same plane as the receiver rail. Because of this the sight is not compatible with the MOE Hand Guard.

MBUS® – Magpul® Back-Up Sight – Rear GEN 2 ($57.95)
DESCRIPTION:
The new MBUS (Magpul Back-Up Sight) GEN 2 is a low-cost, color injection molded, folding back-up sight. The dual aperture MBUS Rear Sight is adjustable for windage and fits all MIL-STD-1913 Picatinny rail equipped weapons, but is specifically tailored to the AR15/M16/M4 platform.
Made in U.S.A.

Features

• Impact resistant polymer construction provides light weight and resists operational abuse
• Spring-loaded flip up sight easily activated from either side or by pressing the top
• Detent and spring pressure keeps sight erect but allows for unobstructed folding under impact, etc.
• Clamps to any MIL-STD-1913 Picatinny/STANAG 4694 receiver rail and provides the same height-over-bore as standard A2 irons
• Protective wings shield the dual flip apertures
• Detent knob easily and positively adjusts windage

Specifications

• MBUS – Rear Gen 2
  • Weight, w/ hardware: 1.3 oz.
  • Height above rail, stowed: ~0.51 in.
  • Length, stowed: 2.6 in.
  • Length, deployed: 1.5 in.

NEW Features for GEN 2

• Reduced size for greater optics compatibility
• Both small and large apertures are on the same plane

FIRST IMPRESSIONS:
I recently purchased a set of the Front and Rear MBUS Gen 2 Sights to go on my LMT MRP. The first thing that I noticed was the height. The MBUS Gen 2 are lower than the MBUS Gen 1 and lower than the ARMS #71 Sights. They deploy the same way as the Gen 1, which is via the left or right button/tab, whereas the ARMS #71 has the button on the rear. No real advantage to either one. One of the welcome changes with the MBUS Gen 2 is the use of flathead screws instead of allen screws, which is also on the ARMS #71. It may sound like something simple, but it is an improvement.

MBUS Gen 2 Front:
The MBUS Gen 2 Front has a modified Front Sight Base/Post which is a HUGE improvement over the MBUS Gen 1. It even comes with a Front Sight Adjustment Tool.

MBUS Gen 2 Rear:
The MBUS Gen 2 Rear has a smaller Windage Knob and they switched over to the Same Plane Rear Aperature. Both were also HUGE improvements over the MBUS Gen 1.

CONCLUSION:
Hands down, these are my favorite BUIS on the market. They sit very low and have all of the features that most people want and they cost over half the price of the Iron BUIS on the market. The only negative being that the MBUS GEN 2 Front cannot be mounted on the Railed Gas Blocks.

PICTURES:

EOTech EXPS 2-0 Review.

INTRO:
This is my review of the EOTech EXPS 2-0.

 OVERVIEW:
Offering true 2 eyes open shooting, a transversely mounted lithium 123 battery, and 7 mm raised base offering iron sight access, the new EXPS2 features easy to adjust side buttons and a single, quick release throw lever for easy attachment and removal.

• Reticle is a 65MOA circle with 1 MOA aiming dot
• Single transverse 123 battery to reduce sight length
• Shortened base only requires at most 2 3/4 inch of rail space
• Battery cap and latch are eliminated and replaced with a simple O-ring, tethered cap; better sealing is achieved
• Battery compartment is now separated from the base to allow it to hover over the delta ring of the rifle
• Average battery life at brightness level 12 is roughly 600 hours
• Side buttons with a single quick detach throw lever

Operation:

• Optics: Transmission holography – parallax free
• Magnification: 1x
• Eye Relief: Unlimited
• Length/Width/Height: 3.5″x2.4″x2.8″ (91.4X 60.9x71mm)
• Weight: 11.2 oz (317grams)
• Temperature: -40 to 150 F
• Waterproof: Submersible to 10 ft depth
• Sealing: Fogproof internal optics
• Color/Finish: Non reflective black with hard coat finish
• Adjustment (per click): 0.5 MOA (1/2″ at 100 yds)
• Adjustment Range: +/- 40 MOA travel
• Mount: 1″ Weaver or (MIL-STD-1913) rail. Adjustable for width variation
• Return to Zero: Repeatable to within 2 MOA after re-mounting

Heads-Up-Display Window:

• Optical Surfaces: Anti-glare coating
• Window Dimensions: 1.20″ x 0.85″ (30 x 23mm)
• Front Window Material: 1/8″ solid glass
• Rear Window Material: Shatter resistant laminate (3/16″ thick)
• Field of View (100 yds): 30 yds (28m) at a 4″ eye relief
• Reticle Options: Black EXPS2 Models include only one of the following reticles:
• 65MOA ring with single 1MOA dot

Electrical:

• Brightness Adjustment Range: 146,000:1 brightest to lowest
• Night Vision Brightness Range: 1280:1 with NV switch engaged
• Power Source: (1) 123 lithium battery
• Battery Life: 600 continuous hours at nominal setting 12
• Brightness Settings: 20 settings with scrolling feature
• Auto Battery Check Indicator: Flashing reticle upon start-up
• Auto Shut-down: At 8 hrs- programmable to 4 hrs

INITIAL THOUGHTS:
I’ve had several EOTechs in the past and we have them on our Patrol Carbines at work, so I’m very familiar with the EOTechs. I’ve had 512′s, 552′s, the 516, and the XPS 3-2. I generally prefer the Standard Height ones, but I wanted to try the EXPS because of the built-in QD Throw Levers. I’ve had every throw lever out on the market from ARMS, ADM, Larue, GG&G, and Bobro, and to be honest, the EOTech QD Throw Levers are right up there with all of them. The locking mechanism is top notch.RANGE TIME:
I went to the range to sight the EOTech in and do some repeatability tests. I did 4 ten round shot groups at 50 yards with just the magnifier. after every 10 rounds, I removed the EOTech and placed it back on the upper. As with all optics, I always move them as far forward on the rail slot. This really helps with repeatability. I think the picture below speaks for itself in terms of repeatability:

EOTECH HEIGHT:
The EOTech EXPS sits up at approximately 2.285″. This is generally higher than I prefer due to my body shape, but it is workable for me. The reticle sits a little lower in the EOTech window when my cheekweld is at my preferred height.

ADDRESSING EOTech COMPLAINTS:
Over the years, I have heard of many complaints about the EOTechs. Here are some of the common complaints and how I would address them:

1. SHORT BATTERY LIFE:
COMPLAINT:
The EOTech XPS/EXPS has a battery life of 600 hours on the brightness setting 12. Even if someone were to have it on for 24 hours, that would equal to approximately 25 days. Realistically, no one is going to have it on 24 hours a day. So lets try 8 hours a day. That would equal to 75 days (2.5 months).

SOLUTION:
Just figure out exactly how often you realistically you will be using your EOTech and change out the batteries accordingly.

2. AUTO SHUT-OFF:
COMPLAINT:
The EOTechs all have a 4 or 8-hour shut-off, depending which button you turn it off with. The complaint is that you can’t just turn your EOTech on and leave it on like an Aimpoint, so in a SHTF or on a call-out, you may not have time to turn on the EOTech.

SOLUTION:
If you have fixed irons and you can’t turn the EOTech on in time, just use your irons. If you have Flip-up Iron Sights, just leave them in the up position, so in the event that you don’t have time to turn on your EOTech, just use the Flip-up Iron Sights.

3. EOTech NOT RELIABLE:
COMPLAINT:
Many guys are afraid to get an EOTech because of the horror stories on the internet. Some of those stories are legit, while others are guys regurgitating what they hear from the same guys. And not to mention that a majority of those complaints are about the older EOTech Models.

SOLUTION:
If you are still worried about the reliability of the EOTechs, just use fixed irons so you can trasition to them in the event that the EOTech craps out. This is particularly true for those of us that are issued EOTechs and have no other choice. If you are given a choice and you are not confident, just get something else.

4. RETICLE TOO BUSY/CLUTTERED:
COMPLAINT:
I often hear many guys complaining that the Circle Dot reticle is too Busy/Cluttered and overpowers the target.

SOLUTION:
Turn the reticle brightness down. It is that simple.

EOTech MODELS:
EOTech XPS Models:
XPS 2-0
XPS 2-1
XPS 2-2
XPS 3-0 (NV Models)
XPS 3-2 (NV Models)

EOTech EXPS Models (7mm base and QD Throw Levers):
EXPS 2-0
EXPS 2-2
EXPS 3-0 (NV Models)
EXPS 3-2 (NV Models)
EXPS 3-4 (NV Models)

CONCLUSION:
To me, the EOTech XPS/EXPS Series are the best EOTechs to date. EOTEchs have been plagued with reliability issues in the past, some of it warranted, and a lot of it overblown, but it appears that EOTech is headed in the right direction with the XPS/EXPS Series.

UPDATE 6-19-2011:
I’ve been one of the biggest EOTech apologists, but now you can add me to the EOTech hate club. I was at the range and my EOTech EXPS 2-0 just cut out. After a few seconds, I was able to turn it back on. This is on a training gun, so it isn’t that big of a deal, but my faith in EOTech is gone. I thought the XPS/EXPS was going to be the savior. I was wrong. I’ll stick to my TA33 and I may check out the T-1′s one of these years.

PICTURES:

Comparison of the Remington 6.8 SAAMI (SPC) and SPCII Chamber Comparisons.

INTRO:
This is my Comparison of the Remington 6.8 SAAMI (SPC) and SPCII Chamber Comparisons Using the LMT 6.8 SPC 16″ MRP Piston Upper.

TESTING:
The purpose of this test was to show the differences between the Remington 6.8 SPC SAAMI Chamber and the SPCII Chamber. I used the Nosler 115 GR BTHP, Hornady 110 GR BTHP, and the Hornady 110 GR V-MAX bullets for the testing. I used the LMT 6.8 SPC 16″ MRP Piston Upper, which comes with the 1:10″/6-Groove/SAAMI Chamber for the testing. I tested the three bullets loaded to 2.245″ with the SAAMI Chamber, then I converted the SAAMI Chamber to the SPCII Chamber using the SPCII Reamer and I tested the same three bullets loaded to 2.245″. Then I tested the same three bullets in the SPCII Chamber, but this time loaded to 2.295″. All loads were chrono’ed and I shot 3, 5 round shot groups for accuracy testing. Here are the results:

A: SAAMI CHAMBER:
Weapon: LMT 6.8 SPC 16″ MRP Piston Upper (1:10″/6-Groove/SAAMI Chamber)
Optic: 4×16-44 Scope set on 16x.
Brass: SSA.
Crimp: Lee FCD.
OAL: 2.245″.
Chrony Distance: (@10′)
Temp: 43.

Nosler 115 GR BTHP:
Powder: 29 GR of AA2230.
Hi: 2372 fps, Lo: 2302 fps, Avg: 2348 fps, ES: 70, SD: 17
Accuracy (3 5 round shot groups):
Average: 2.146″ (1.708″, 1.994″, 2.738″).

Hornady 110 GR BTHP:
Powder: 29.5 GR of AA2230.
Hi: 2492 fps, Lo: 2411 fps, Avg: 2445 fps, ES: 81, SD: 25
Accuracy (3 5 round shot groups):
Average: 2.614″ (2.393″, 2.427″, 3.023″).

Hornady 110 GR V-MAX:
Powder: 29.5 GR of AA2230.
Hi: 2554 fps, Lo: 2455 fps, Avg: 2480 fps, ES: 99, SD: 27
Accuracy (3 5 round shot groups):
Average: 3.312″ (3.069″, 3.100″, 3.768″).

B: SPCII CHAMBER:
Weapon: LMT 6.8 SPC 16″ MRP Piston Upper (1:10″/6-Groove/SPCII Chamber)
Optic: 4×16-44 Scope set on 16x.
Brass: SSA.
Crimp: Lee FCD.
OAL: 2.245″.
Chrony Distance: (@10′)
Temp: 43.

Nosler 115 GR BTHP:
Powder: 29 GR of AA2230.
Hi: 2372 fps, Lo: 2318 fps, Avg: 2344 fps, ES: 54, SD: 16
Accuracy (3 5 round shot groups):
Average: 2.199″ (1.993″, 2.106″, 2.499″).

Hornady 110 GR BTHP:
Powder: 29.5 GR of AA2230.
Hi: 2501 fps, Lo: 2411 fps, Avg: 2438 fps, ES: 90, SD: 22
Accuracy (3 5 round shot groups):
Average: 1.579″ (1.191″, 1.572″, 1.976″).

Hornady 110 GR V-MAX:
Powder: 29.5 GR of AA2230.
Hi: 2525 fps, Lo: 2428 fps, Avg: 2460 fps, ES: 97, SD: 25
Accuracy (3 5 round shot groups):
Average: 2.712″ (2.534″, 2.647″, 2.957″).

C: SPCII CHAMBER (MAX OAL):
Weapon: LMT 6.8 SPC 16″ MRP Piston Upper (1:10″/6-Groove/SPCII Chamber)
Optic: 4×16-44 Scope set on 16x.
Brass: SSA.
Crimp: Lee FCD.
OAL: 2.295″.
Chrony Distance: (@10′)
Temp: 43.

Nosler 115 GR BTHP:
Powder: 29 GR of AA2230.
Hi: 2385 fps, Lo: 2306 fps, Avg: 2336 fps, ES: 79, SD: 18
Accuracy (3 5 round shot groups):
Average: 1.379″ (1.000″, 1.377″, 1.761″).

Hornady 110 GR BTHP:
Powder: 29.5 GR of AA2230.
Hi: 2482 fps, Lo: 2428 fps, Avg: 2452 fps, ES: 54, SD: 17
Accuracy (3 5 round shot groups):
Average: 1.781″ (1.455″, 1.866″, 2.024″).

Hornady 110 GR V-MAX:
Powder: 29.5 GR of AA2230.
Hi: 2515 fps, Lo: 2446 fps, Avg: 2481 fps, ES: 69, SD: 19
Accuracy (3 5 round shot groups):
Average: 1.998″ (1.750″, 1.824″, 2.422″).

VELOCITY COMPARISONS:
The velocity went down from the SAAMI to the SPCII Chamber from 4-21 FPS. I’m guessing this is from the reduced pressure. The thing that puzzles me is that the velocity went back up on 2 out of the 3 when I loaded the ammo long. I thought that loading the bullets long by .050″, that it would reduce the pressure even more and the velocity would drop, which it did with the Nosler 115 GR BTHP, but with the Hornady bullets, the velocity went back up to where the SAAMI Chamber velocities were. Does this mean that the pressure went back up when I loaded the bullets long? It makes sense since the distance to the lands is the same with the bullets loaded to 2.245″ in the SAAMI Chamber and when I loaded the bullets to 2.295″ in the SPCII Chamber. This is where pressure testing would answer the question.

NOSLER 115 GR BTHP:
SAAMI CHAMBER: 2348 FPS
SPCII CHAMBER: 2344 FPS
Difference: -4 FPS
SPCII CHAMBER (MAX OAL): 2336 FPS
Difference: -8 FPS

HORNADY 110 GR BTHP:
SAAMI CHAMBER: 2445 FPS
SPCII CHAMBER: 2438 FPS
Difference: -7 FPS
SPCII CHAMBER (MAX OAL): 2452 FPS
Difference: +12 FPS

HORNADY 110 GR V-MAX:
SAAMI CHAMBER: 2480 FPS
SPCII CHAMBER: 2460 FPS
Difference: -20 FPS
SPCII CHAMBER (MAX OAL): 2481 FPS
Difference: +21 FPS

ACCURACY COMPARISONS:
In theory accuracy should be best with the SAAMI Chamber or when loaded to 2.295″ in the SPCII Chamber. But it wasn’t the case. With the Nosler 115 GR BTHP, the accuracy was the same with the SAAMI and SPCII Chambers and it improved by 0.820″ when I loaded them to 2.295″ in the SPCII Chamber. The Hornady 110 GR BTHP was the most accurate in the SPCII Chamber when loaded to 2.245″, which is the farthest away from the lands. I don’t actually mind this because this is the bullet I planned on using. The Hornady V-Max actually got better each time, which makes no sense at all, in theory.

Actually none of this comes as too much of a surprise to me. In the past, I have tested many bullets at different lengths and I got similar results. When I called Hornady and Sierra and spoke with the technicians, they both told me that every barrel is different. Some like the longer jumps, while other barrels like the shorter jumps. You can’t take short cuts on this. When trying to find an accurate load, you have to play around with different powder charges and different OAL’s. Don’t just automatically load to 2.245″ or 2.295″ and give up on the bullet and powder if you don’t get the desired results. The only problem is if you have the magazines that don’t allow you to load long. Then you may just have to experiment with different powders.

NOSLER 115 GR BTHP:
SAAMI CHAMBER: 2.146″
SPCII CHAMBER: 2.199″
Difference: +0.053″
SPCII CHAMBER (MAX OAL): 1.379″
Difference: -0.820″

HORNADY 110 GR BTHP:
SAAMI CHAMBER: 2.614″
SPCII CHAMBER: 1.579″
Difference: -1.035″
SPCII CHAMBER (MAX OAL): 1.781″
Difference: +0.202″

HORNADY 110 GR V-MAX:
SAAMI CHAMBER: 3.312″
SPCII CHAMBER: 2.712″
Difference: -0.600″
SPCII CHAMBER (MAX OAL): 1.998″
Difference: -0.714″

CONCLUSION:
IMHO, there is no reason to have the SAAMI Chamber. The SPCII Chamber reduces the pressure by approximately 1500K PSI without the loss of accuracy.

PICTURES OF SHOT GROUPS:
SAAMI CHAMBER:

SPCII CHAMBER:

SPCII CHAMBER (MAX OAL):

PWS & POF Enhanced Buffer Tube Review

INTRO:
This is my review of the PWS Enhanced Buffer Tube and the POF Enhanced Buffer Tube.

PWS ENHANCED BUFFER TUBE DETAILS:
The PWS Enhanced Buffer Tube is the first major upgrade and improvement to the buffer tube in years!
Unlike the original PWS EBT, this unit is made from impact extruded 6061 aluminum in order to keep the cost down while keeping the quality high.

The Enhanced Buffer Tube will resolve any carrier tilt symptoms exhibited by a short stroke piston AR and will reduce felt recoil.

The most notable features on this buffer tube include:

1. One piece construction eliminating the castle nut and ensuring that when installed, the buffer tube cannot become loose.
2. Attachment system automatically indexes the buffer tube perfectly straight.
3. The bottom of the interior buffer tube extends a lip into the receiver, supporting the bottom rear of the bolt carrier, reducing the carrier tilt present in some piston systems.
4. A dead blow buffer is securely installed in the rear of the buffer tube to reduce carrier speed by an average of 10%, and dramatically reduce felt recoil.
5. Two QD sling swivel attachments are machined into the front of the buffer tube allowing ambidextrous connection of your QD slings.
6. The buffer tube is fluted to allow debris to be pushed out of the way, and a drain hole has been placed in the bottom of the tube, allowing for draining of water when the rifle is parallel to the ground.

The PWS Enhanced Buffer Tube is made to accept Mil-Spec stocks.

Usage:
For use on Mil-Spec AR-15/M16 based lower receivers and/or weapons platforms.

Specifications:
Length: 7.8″ (19.8 cm)
Diameter: 1.15″ (2.9 cm)
Width: 1.8″ (4.5 cm) at QD points
Weight: 5.5 oz (156 grams)

POF ENHANCED BUFFER TUBE DETAILS:
Carbine buffer tube for the AR15/M16 type firearms using the Mil-spec M4 buffer tube.
7075-T6 Impact Extrusion Hard Coat Anodized per Mil-Spec
(As you can see, not much info on the POF)

PURPOSES:
Both of the PWS and POF 6-Position buffers tubes are designed to be used with the Mill-Spec Stocks. These buffer tubes were designed to reduce/eliminate carrier tilt that is common in Piston AR’s, but they can also be used with DI AR’s. Most piston manufacturers have the 1-piece carriers with the ramps on the bottom, which they claim that will eliminate the carrier tilt, but it is still not enough on most of them. Some Carrier tilt is minor, while some is bad enough to cause the AR to malfunction. My LMT had some minor carrier tilt and it is the reason I began to look for new options to combat the carrier tilt.

PWS ENHANCED BUFFER TUBE:
I purchased the PWS first. I purchased the 416 model, which is made out of solid 7075 aluminum and costs $150. They also have a Mil-Spec Model which is made out of impact extruded 6061 aluminum and costs $75. Other then the material, they are virtually the same. They both have the built-in QD slots machined on the left and right side, replacing the castle nut. It also comes with an end plate that does not have the notch. Installing the PWS Buffer tube is pretty simple. You install it almost like a regular buffer tube. You do have to push down on the detent all the way in order for the buffer tube to go one, which is not that hard. Then you have two small allen head screws on top and one large allen head screw on the bottom.

POF ENHANCED BUFFER TUBE:
Installation of the POF buffer tube is the same as a regular buffer tube, except that you also have to push the detent spring all the way down. I went ahead and installed the Noveske End Plate with the POF.

COMPARISONS:
Both Buffer tubes will do what they were designed to do, which is to reduce/eliminate the carrier tilt. The PWS has done just that with my LMT Piston, and from the looks of the POF, which looks nearly identical, I’m sure it will do the same. The good thing about the PWS is that it eliminates the castle nut and replaces it with the built-in QD Sockets on both sides. That is great, except I prefer the QD socket on the bottom, where the end plate goes. The POF allows you to use whatever end plate you want, which is good if you don’t like the QD Slots on the side.

As you can see in the pictures below, they are nearly identical, except that the PWS has a closed end while the POF has an open end.

As far as the price goes, the PWS Mil-Spec is $75, but it comes with the built-in QD Slots on the side, so it is a great price. I would not recommend the PWS 416 for $150. The POF costs $40 and for me, I added the Noveske End Plate for $24 for a total of $64.

CONCLUSION:
Which one do I believe is better? For me I like the POF because I prefer to use the Noveske End Plate. If you like the QD Slots on the side, then go for the PWS.

PWS:

POF:

Noveske QD End Plate Review.

INTRO:
This is my review of the Noveske QD End Plate.

DESCRIPTION:
Carbine Receiver End Plate with QD Sling Swivel Attachment
–All Steel Construction allows for proper
staking
–Parkerized Finish
–Uses standard QD Swivel

INITIAL IMPRESSION:
I know the Noveske QD End Plate has been out for a while, so I just wanted to share my thoughts on this product. The Noveske QD End Plate is just a direct replacement for the standard End Plate. In order to install it, you will need the proper tools, or you have to send your lower to a gunsmith.

I personally like to use the Convertible 1 to 2 point sling. Mounting the rear portion of the sling to the end plate makes it easier to transition from strong to weak side. What I really like about the Noveske is that it is just a replacement for the regular end plate and not an adapter that you have to put on, which just adds weight and costs a lot more money.

CONCLUSION:
I highly recommend this product for anyone that likes to mount the rear of their sling to the end plate. And at $24, it isn’t going to break the bank. The Noveske End Plate, along with the IWC Triglide make for a great combination for a Convertible 1 to 2 Point Sling.

IWC 2 to 1 Point Triglide Review

INTRO:
This is my review of the Impact Weapons Components 2 to 1 Triglide for the 1″ Slings.

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION:

PATENT PENDING
The 2 To 1 Point Triglide allows you to rapidly convert your new or existing Two Point Sling into a One Point Sling, on the run, when extra maneuverability is required and then back to a Two Point for extra stability or when carrying the weapon. The 2 To 1 Point Triglide allows you to leverage the best of both sling types. And it’s the ONLY transitional sling device designed to function with any Push Button Quick Detach Sling Swivel.

Made by Impact Weapons Components in Colorado from USA made 6061-T6 Billet Aluminum:
•Incorporates a QD Socket designed for use with ANY Push Button Quick Detach Sling Swivel.
•Also works with HK Type Hooks and Mash Hooks.
•Directly attaches to the rear end of any sling constructed with 1.00” & 1.25” wide webbing.
•SPEND LESS MONEY: Compare to $50.00 or more for a new convertible type sling, like the MS2™.
•Ultra-lightweight 2 To 1 Point Triglide design weighs only .20 ounces.
•Micro-Adjustable mounting allows the operator to attach anywhere on the sling.
•CNC machined from Billet 6061-T6 aluminum. Hard anodized Type III per MIL-A-8625F.
•Easily installation and simple to follow instructions supplied with 2 To 1 Point Triglide.
•NO GUNSMITHING.
•100% LIFETIME WARRANTY. PERIOD. Return for full refund including your shipping charges.
•MADE IN USA; including Aluminum.
•IWC’s MOUNT-N-SLOT products are MADE BY AMERICANS in COLORADO.

In order to understand why IWC designed the 2 To 1 Point Triglide, it’s important to understand the strengths and weaknesses of the various types of slings on the market.

A One Point Sling is so called because it only attaches to the rifle at a single point, at the rear of the lower receiver using an end plate. The One Point Sling has the advantage of allowing the rifle to transition quickly and easily to either the strong or weak side shoulder with no adjustments. They also tend to allow the operator to move to any shooting position without adjustment (like standing to prone). The main weakness of the One Point Sling is that it allows the muzzle to swing like a pendulum if the user has to take their hands off of it.

Two Point Slings attach to the rifle at 2 points; one at the front of the rifle and one at the rear. As dynamic as a properly configured Two Point Sling can be, it still can’t match a One Point Sling for maneuverability.
The 2 To 1 Point Tri-Glide allows you to reconfigure your sling as a One Point or Two Point on the fly to deal with the specific situation you’re facing, using the sling that you already own.

INITIAL IMPRESSION:
Over the years, I tried the 1-point, 2-point, and the 3-point slings. Each has their strengths and weaknesses. I always liked the idea of a convertible 1 to 2 point sling, but the mounts have always been the problem. Since I have the LMT MRP with the built-in QD Sockets, I prefer to use the slings with the Push Button Quick Detach Sling Swivel.

I tried the IWC Triglide with the Gear Sector GS-2P and the Viking Tactics Padded 2-Point sling. I initially had the rear mounted to the PWS Buffer tube, which has the QD Sockets on the left and right side. While this was OK, I prefer the rear to be mounted to the Noveske End Plate. I switched out the buffer and added the Noveske End Plate and it is much easier to transition from strong to weak side, whether it is in 1-point or 2-point mode, and it has no negative effects on anything else. With the Viking Tactics, you can replace the buckle with the Triglide or add the Triglide as an extra buckle. I chose to just use the Triglide as a buckle.

CONCLUSION:
I can’t say enough good things about this product. It is one of the best $20 I have spent in a while for an accessory. If you are looking to make your own 1 to 2 Point, this is one of the best products to get. They now come in 1″ and 1.25″.