may 2023 | insidefirearms.com | 51 ous Harvester models lead SilencerCo engineers to design the EVO shorter, lighter, more affordable, and ready to shoot right out of the box. Weighing 10.8 ounces, it is constructed of 17-4 heat treated stainless steel, Inconel, and Cobalt 6 with a tubeless design. The Harvester EVO features a snag-free profile and will withstand the most extreme conditions dished out by hunters and precision shooters. Learn more by visiting silencerco.com. n GRIFFIN ARMAMENT The Bushwhacker 36 Universal Silencer by Griffin Armament retains the patented Ratchet-LOK end cap system, allowing customers to fully disassemble, clean, and maintain their suppressor. Carbon and copper deposits reduce volume inside suppressors over time, which reduces their sound eliminating properties. The Ratchet-LOK end cap system ensures that your Bushwhacker 36 can be cleaned easily, which resets the suppressor to factory weight and sound performance specifications. ECO-FLOW baffle technology provides reduced back pressure, greater structural strength, higher heat resistance for enhanced durability, and longer n NOSLER Nosler suppressors turn down the volume without turning down accuracy or performance, allowing shooters to protect their hearing, avoid spooking game, and make their favorite rifle more enjoyable to shoot. Nosler suppressors are designed to ensure the accuracy customers now enjoy will not be eroded. Nosler’s new SR-30Ti is incredibly stout and lightweight due to 100 percent titanium construction. The SR-30Ti modular suppressor is compatible with all .30-caliber and smaller firearms. The 7.963-by-1.740-inch can weighs 13.1 ounces and is offered in black or gray. It includes 5/8x24 attachment threads. Learn more by visiting nosler.com. Handgun Handy n B&T USA The new Super Quick Disconnect (SQD) attachment for the B&T USA RBS9 suppressor has many new features that have yet to be seen in previous suppressors produced by the company. The RBS9 SQD is a fusion of the reduced backpressure system (RBS) technology for which B&T is known and a totally new one-hand operable, 3-lug mountservice life, as well as 5 to 7 dB sound pressure level drops verses comparably sized options. Their high performance baffle technology allows Griffin engineers to reduce the overall length of the product to a compact 7.2 inches, while simultaneously increasing performance. This baffle system also features locking geometry to keep the assembly from rotating, ensuring ports are in their optimal axial relationship to provide top-tier suppression. Learn more by visiting griffinarmament.com. n GEMTECH Gemtech’s Neutron 7.62 features four of Gemtech’s latest patent-pending technologies and is rated for use up to and including .300 Win Mag. The versatile Neutron 7.62 strikes the perfect balance between size, strength, and weight. From a short-barreled rifle to a favorite hunting gun, the Neutron 7.62 accepts a wide range of mounting hardware to better suit the gun and task at hand. Its refined baffle and flash hider end cap designs mute muzzle signature and the included ETM adapter and muzzle brake offer rapid mounting and perfect alignment. Learn more by visiting gemtech.com. Muzzle Funnels, Boom Tubes, & Linear Compensators Although these aren’t suppressors, they should not be dismissed. They do not require NFA paperwork for purchase and can be reasonably effective in reducing certain negative aspects of live fire, which can translate to greater accuracy. These are essentially barrel extensions that are meant to direct muzzle blast and accompanying noise away from the shooter. Linear compensators, like those from BOWDEN TACTICAL, (www.bowdentactical.com) have become popular with AR-15 pistols and SBRs. They attach to the muzzle like a flash hider or muzzle brake. BowDen also offers $36.70 Flash Redirect Cans, which weigh just two ounces and are compatible with any threaded barrel. They are designed to direct muzzle blast and gases downrange and reduce noise perceived from behind the firearm while shooting. BowDen products are milled from 6061 T-6 aluminum and black hardcoat anodized. They are available with ½x28 or 5/8x24 threads and work with all calibers. Some shooters report that while shooting typical .22 Long Rifle ammo, the difference in comfort during live fire between a LITTLE CROW BOOM TUBE (www.littlecrowgunworks.com) and a suppressor is insignificant—at least when measured from the shooting position behind the stock. The Boom Tube is essentially a $50 muzzle-blast “funnel,” but it can also make shots quieter from the shooting position while firing moderate centerfire rifles. The Boom Tube is affordable and includes no paperwork hassles. What’s not to like?
52 | inside firearms | may 2023 ing system. The system is smooth and fast to mount with the new SQD mounting system featuring the aforementioned 3-Lug system that allows almost instant attachment. The new RBS SQD suppressor will fit all 9mm weapons featuring a 3-Lug barrel interface. This includes, but is not limited to, B&T’s APC9, SPC9, GHM9, as well as HK’s MP5, MP5K and variants with in-spec tri-lug barrels. The suppressor mounts onto the barrel of a submachine gun by simply pressing it over the barrel. The spring-loaded retaining collar will snap down onto the 3-Lug attachment, automatically locking the suppressor into place. The suppressor will remain securely in place until the operator wishes to remove it. By simply depressing the tab, the suppressor integral 3-lug adapter, and fixed direct thread mounts are available to support the Revolution in any configuration desired. The Rev 45 can also be configured into a short (K) configuration by removing the black stainless oxide external booster housing extension and collapsing the booster housing or 3-lug assembly into the silencer tube. This configuration is best used wet. By adding 5cc’s of Rem Oil, wire pulling gel, or similar medium, sound suppression is dampened effectively when in the short configuration. Learn more by visiting griffinarmament.com. n THUNDER BEAST ARMS CORPORATION Thunder Beast’s Fly 9 Suppressor was developed with the same philosophy as the company’s ULTRA series, making high-performance suppression as light and compact as possible. The FLY 9 is configurable in two lengths: Long and Short. The Long length is shorter than most modular systems and up to 50 percent lighter than other full-size 9mm suppressors. The Fly 9 weighs 7.9 ounces in its Long configuration—including the booster, piston, and spring. It is also rated for .300 Blackout supersonic ammunition from 5.5-inch or longer barrels. The FLY 9 is also rated for the .350 Legend with barrels 16 inches or longer. The FLY 9 ships with a ½x28 piston and a fixed barrel spacer (spring replacement). For high temperature durability, Thunder Beast Arms uses specially made 17-7 wave springs in the booster. It is compatible with the Rugged, Griffin, SilencerCo, and TBAC standard pistons. Learn more by visiting thunderbeastarms.com. Gas Gun Optimized n B&T USA The B&T USA M.A.R.S., or Miniature Assault Rifle Suppressor, was develcomes off the barrel effortlessly. Learn more by visiting bt-usa.com. n HUXWRX SAFETY COMPANY HUXWRX’s CA$H 9k is short and sweet— a quieter, lighter, and more durable suppressor. Manufactured almost entirely of titanium and 17-4 stainless steel, the CA$H 9k is perfect for submachine, PCC, lever action, and fixedbarrel systems. With next-generation Flow-Baffle technology, this suppressor significantly reduces gas blowback while maintaining superior pistol performance. The CA$H 9k was designed to offer a compact, cleaner, and more efficient solution for today’s shooting needs. The Flow-Baffle design is based on patented Flow-Through technology providing an improved experience from shooting to maintenance. Added wrench flats at the cap base make for a quicker disassembly, and available adapters allow for greater modularity and system compatibility. Learn more by visiting huxwrx.com. n GRIFFIN ARMAMENT Griffin Armament’s Revolution 9 and 45 silencers (MOD3) were first to market with the modular length feature concept. The removable booster extension feature allows the user to configure the length of the suppressor as needed. The silencer is user serviceable, ensuring a long and high-performance service life. The front caps can be interchanged for smaller calibers, with 9mm and .22-caliber front caps available separately. The 17-4 stainless heat-treated baffles, with anti-rotation (Return To Zero) geometry features, ensure maximum strength and suppression performance. The booster assembly includes a piston that provides a turnkey suppressor system out of the box. Included take down tools allow for an easy maintenance experience. Additional pistons, fixed barrel spacers, an SCY : Build a customtailored bullpup configured AR-15! Reap Weaponries • 320-223-5983 •reapweaponries.com • [email protected] • Relocates trigger interface 9 ¾” forward • M-LOK, KeyMod™ compatible • Ambidextrous setup • Mil-spec components • Weights 12 ounces • Linear trigger system • Less than 1.5 lbs. trigger weight added • Designed for all mil-spec lowers with a removable trigger guard • Recoil rated for up to .50 Beowulf • All components made in the USA CALL OR EMAIL FOR ORDERS • FREE SHIPPING!
oped following feedback from Special Operations Forces members based upon actual experience in Iraq and Afghanistan. The M.A.R.S. line sets a new standard for small, light and effective gas-gun sound suppressors. Instead of maximum sound suppression, modern militaries are asking for maximum muzzle flash suppression in their suppressors, while keeping these units as light and compact as possible. Already field-trialed in close collaboration with the same military units that provided the feedback for its creation, the M.A.R.S. suppressor lineup serves the needs of different customers depending on their missions and is designed to meet and exceed all modern standards. They are manufactured using Inconel and Thermax, offering solid sound suppression capabilities—while drastically reducing muzzle flash to help prevent shooters from being spotted by enemy forces. This is achieved thanks to the revolutionary “Multi-Y” design endcap, based on the design of a new sniper rifle suppressor recently developed by B&T for the German Special Forces. Learn more by visiting bt-usa.com. n SILENCERCO The Velos LMP from SilencerCo is a new low back-pressure suppressor. The Velos LMP offers exceptional sound performance for the 5.56x45mm NATO cartridge, with minimized back pressure to host firearms. This results in shooters experiencing reduced gas blowback. This hard-use suppressor was constructed through a unique manufacturing process utilizing a 3D printed Inconel 625 core that is fully welded to 17-4 stainless steel front and rear modules. This is SilencerCo’s most durable suppressor yet, partially due to the inclusion of their patented Hoplon Blast Baffle. The Hoplon Blast Baffle deflects debris, which increases the lifespan of the suppressor on short-barreled and full-auto firearms. The Velos LMP is finished with a V-Series Cerakote to withstand extremely high temperatures that come with high rates of fire. It also ships with SilencerCo’s new Internal Charlie Flash Hider Front Cap to minimize muzzle flash while maintaining a flat frontcap look. The Velos LMP is covered by SilencerCo’s lifetime warranty. Learn more by visiting silencerco.com. n HUXWRX SAFETY COMPANY The HX-QD 556k from HUXWRX utilizes a patented Flow-Through design that moves gases through the unit in a helical pattern that allows for expansion and cooling before they exit the muzzle. The torque generated by the exiting gases keeps the suppressor snug on the mount. The updated HX-QD 556k incorporates a new flash cap that virtually eliminates muzzle flash and no tools are needed for installation or removal. The HX-QD 556k’s Flow Through system does not increase back pressure like traditional baffle suppressors. This innovative technology runs cooler than traditional suppressors and does not increase toxic gas discharge or increase bolt velocity. This helps manage muzzle rise and recoil without introducing stoppages. Unlike traditional suppressors that manage trapped gas, intense heat, and pressure with blast baffles, OSS FlowThrough technology redirects expanding gases forward allowing use of 17-4 stainless steel deflectors and internal Grade 5 Titanium coils. The result is a markedly cooler and exceptionally durable suppressor. The HX-QD 556k has a fully welded outer body made of 17-4 heat treated stainless steel coated with C-series high temperature black Cerakote. Learn more by visiting huxwrx.com.
54 | inside firearms | may 2023 market trends | gear report Reap Weaponries Scy T acticool, in the positive sense, is a term used in the firearms world to describe a certain practical aesthetic. Tacticool is anything that makes a firearm more functional in some way useful to a specific application, offers sleeker operation for the shooter, or, yes, just looks wicked without impeding function. A weapon light or laser on a nighttime hog-culling rifle, for instance, would be tacticool. AR armguards covered with Pic rails that allow the quick attachment of such accessories are tacticool. Collapsing or folding stocks that make storage or carrying easier are tacticool. Reap Weaponries’ Scy was designed to introduce tacticool appeal, turning standard AR-15s into a bullpup platform with complete modularity. The bullpup layout improves mobility and weight distribution, while providing a sleek, anti-snag design that maintains AR-15 modularity. The kit comes with a Scy “lower,” hardware pack, and mounting block. Customers supply an AR-15 Mil-Spec lower receiver (must have removeable trigger guard), full upper, standard M-LOK or KeyMod handguard, pistol grip and butt assembly. The Scy allows building a customized bullpup firearm tailored to any need, using the plethora of AR parts common in the firearms arena. The system can be set up to be ambidextrous, or for right- or -left-hand specific operation. It uses MIL-SPEC components, lightweight polymer, and 5052 and 6061 aluminum construction, so it weighs just two pounds and measures 16-by-4-by-4 inches. The main point is the Scy moves the trigger 9.75 inches forward of the standard AR-15 location, employing a linear trigger system to smoothly operate the firearm—including adding less than 1.5 pounds to the trigger pull. This system is compatible with any AR cartridge up to and including .50 Beowulf. It’s also adjustable to accommodate aftermarket triggers. The original safety stays in place, with a secondary safety then located in the forward position after installing the Scy. They can both be employed or the rear left on fire and the forward safety used as the primary. All internal components are CNC machined and held to strict quality standards, then assembled and tested by hand. Reap offers a lifetime warranty on all components. This isn’t a product I’d recommend for those without a decent amount of experience with the AR-15 platform, as some fitting may be required depending on the handguard. Reap does not recommend the Scy be installed on or be used with a barrel shorter than 12 inches, and AR10 and AR-9 lowers and oversized handguards are not compatible. In fact, from my experience, the thinner the handguard the better. An M-LOK or KeyMod handguard is essential, as the slots supply mounting points. In addition, use of a standard buffer tube creates a fairly long length of pull, but the system is also compatible with “180-style” kits, which would allow ditching the standard buffer tube and creating a shorter weapon. Reap Weaponries products are made in the USA. Check them out by visiting reapweaponries.com. By Patrick Meitin
may 2023 | insidefirearms.com | 55
market trends | firearm care Gun Snot® Liquid Aerosol I do more than an average amount of shooting, testing various firearms and conducting load development for publication, as well as an obsessive amount of varmint shooting. On average I shoot 450 rounds monthly while working on magazine articles, and a single weekend in southern Idaho, eastern Oregon or western Wyoming belaboring burrowing rodents might mean burning 1,000 to 1,500 rounds of rimfire and centerfire ammunition. This kind of volume occasions plenty of gun cleaning. All this firearms scrubbing and swabbing consumes a lot of gun cleaning solvents and oils, so I have tried just about everything out there. Having recently discovered Gun Snot products, I just might have a new favorite. The company produces seven products, including Gun Snot Aerosol, Booger Buster, Gun Snot Liquid and Paste, Snot Rags, Wipes, and Trigger Digger Medical Grade Applicators. Gun Snot’s Aerosol is the topic here. Gun Snot Aerosol is super effective and affordable, borne of technology developed by NASA chemical engineers seeking a lubricant that would not transfer heat or prove flammable. The technology has been used for semiconductors, scuba gear, in the aeronautical industry (lubrication compounds employed with anything using oxygen cannot by international tests prove flammable), and similar applications. This technology was reformulated for use on firearms. What this means to gun owners is Gun Snot does not include hydrocarbons, which can gum up firearms with carbon residues when burned. By thoroughly cleaning a firearm to remove all previous lubricants using something like By Patrick Meitin
alcohol-based brake cleaner (red can), and sparingly applying Teflon-based Gun Snot, that gun should never require a deep clean again. Gun Snot Aerosol makes that easy, as it introduces a consistent, fine layer of lubricant containing no thickeners or solvents to produce carbon buildup that can negatively affect firearm performance. Gun Snot does not evaporate as a gun warms, and it absolutely stays where it is applied. It will not migrate or soak into parts of the gun where it is not wanted, such as stocks or precision triggers. And once applied it stays put for years while in storage, preventing rust and corrosion. A little goes a long way, making it economical, while at the same time you simply can not use too much. Whether storing firearms longterm, or using firearms hard, Gun Snot technology allows applying a fine layer of lube and forgetting about it. A single application will last for years. Gun Snot is also scent free, making it ideal for hunters, and even bow parts. Many customers have found Gun Snot to be an effective case lube while reloading. After an initial deep cleaning, applying Gun Snot makes maintaining firearms and sporting equipment easier and hassle free, allowing key parts to move more slickly and keeping them rust and corrosion free. This also means firearms won’t need to be cleaned immediately after use to avoid damage. Check it out by visiting gunsnot.com—we think you’ll be impressed.
58 | inside firearms | may 2023 inside the industry | industry 5Q Five Questions with Ocaso Knives O caso Knives does not make ordinary pocketknives. Ocaso is a company that speaks of sophistication and elegance, producing folding gentlemen’s knives that pair well with a fine business suit or refined sporting wear. Ocaso Knives designs these masterpieces in affiliation with some of the best custom knife makers in the country, using best-in-class materials, and partnering with some of the finest knife manufacturers in the world. An Ocaso is more than a knife, it is a statement. Inside Firearms spoke with Ric Valdez, CEO and Founder, to find out more. For those who might be unfamiliar with the Ocaso name, can you briefly explain what the company is all about? ■ We strive to make the highest quality production gentleman’s, executive, and everyday carry (EDC) pocket knives using premium materials and a minimalist, refined and elegant design aesthetic. Our goal is to craft sophisticated, versatile, distinctive knives and accessories that reflect your personal style. Where did the idea and inspiration for Ocaso Knives come from, and what principles drive the company today? ■ I started Ocaso to develop my own brand of pocketknives, gentleman's knives, executive style, and everyday carry knives and accessories. I’m inspired by what I like—designs that are modern, discreet, lightweight, minimalist, and high-end. I believe the knife you choose to carry defines who you are, and we start every day with a mission to make knives that function as beautifully as they look. What design features and/or materials might one find in an Ocaso Knives design that you will not see in a lesser knife brand? ■ We use premium steels and materials in our knives like S35VN, Damascus, and titanium. While we’re a new company, we’ve been in the industry for decades and have long-standing relationships with our production partners and work closely with them through every step of the design and production process. From prototype to production, we ensure that every knife is carefully inspected to meet our quality standards. What new designs or concepts does Ocaso Knives have on the drawing board for 2023 and beyond? ■ We have several new knife designs coming out this year with new designers, as well as new variations of our premier gentleman’s knife, the Solstice. We’re also working on a line of everyday carry accessories (desk knives, wallets, knife cases, keychains) that match the elegant, minimalist aesthetic of our knives. Our goal is not just to be a knife company but a lifestyle brand—a complete line of gentleman’s pocket knives and accessories, that are “elevated” with a refined design aesthetic and made with premium materials. How does one go about becoming an Ocaso Knives dealer, and what benefits go along with becoming a certified Ocaso seller? ■ Dealers can call (805) 500-8043 or contact us at [email protected]. We are a husband and wife team and our dealers always have personalized, direct access to us, all our marketing materials, and the most up-todate product information and new releases.