By Doug Gilmer
USA – -(Ammoland.com)- SHOT Show 2017 is in the rearview mirror. Earlier last month I made my way, for the 12th consecutive year to the world’s largest Shooting, Hunting and Outdoor Trade Show, in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Continued from 2017 SHOT Show Guns n Gear Highlights – Part I, here are the rest of my picks of new and interesting products from 2017 SHOT Show.
MantisX Firearms Training System
You have probably seen the handgun shooter correction charts and targets. Based on where your shots are hitting the target it explains if you are using too much or too little finger on the trigger, anticipating recoil, etc. The MantisX Firearms Training System turns this into a digital process and records your progress. You attach a small device to the rail of your firearm (other attachment options are available as well), wirelessly synch the device to your phone or tablet, and shoot. It records your performance while analyzing your shooting mechanics. The device measures exactly what you are doing right and wrong at the moment you squeeze the trigger and fire the shot. The device can be used to record live fire, dry fire, or with air/gas powered shooting systems. If you are a handgun shooter and are not shooting the groups you’d like too or worried you have developed a flinch this will let you know the “what and why”. If you are a firearms instructor this device is an excellent training aid. For an MSRP of only $149.99 it is like having your own inexpensive personalized instructor and shooting problem troubleshooter. www.MantisX.com
Big Bore, Packing Length Ruger Super Blackhawks
I am a fan of Ruger single action revolvers, especially for hunting and have long been intrigued by what the great John Taffin refers to as the search for the perfect packing pistol. Of course the perfect packing pistol depends on where you are going to be packing it and what issues you might encounter and the problems it must solve. Ruger has made great strides in taking the guess work out of this quest the last few years. Tucked away at SHOT in the Lipsey’s Distributor booth were three new stainless Ruger Super Blackhawks; a 480 Ruger and 454 Cassul with 4.62” barrels as well as 3.75” Bisley frame revolver chambered in 45 Colt and 45 ACP. Obviously the 480 and 454 are newer versions of the popular 6.5” models. The 3.75” Bisley model, initially chambered in 44 Magnum has been a very popular seller. The new 45 Colt/45 ACP model will appeal to those seeking versatility as well as those who believe “big bore” doesn’t begin before 45. These three revolvers can cover the spectrum of situations one might need a serious packing pistol for. www.Lipseys.com or www.Ruger.com
The Veo Shooting Stick by Vanguard
I’ve long used Vanguard camera equipment and accessories. A few years ago they began taking their knowledge of camera gear and translating it into the hunting world with a line of accessories to include tripods, bags, packs, and optics. For 2017, they have introduced a new shooting stick, the Veo monopod, initially designed with the handgun and turkey hunter in mind. This shooting stick does not have a “trigger” so it must be adjusted manually to desired length. However, once you do, it is locked tight meaning it can be used as a walking stick. It features fold out feet, or fins, on the bottom meaning you get a more stable platform while also preventing the stick from slipping through the slats in your treestand. The best feature is a professional quality ball joint at the base which allows for easy changes to elevation. Instead of adjusting the height of the stick, the ball joint allows you to push forward on the stick to lower elevation or pull pack to raise it. It also moves side to side The shooting stick features easily swapped out yokes for different size guns and crossbows or it can be used with spotting scopes and cameras. Trying to explain in writing why this shooting stick is so cool isn’t easy. You need to check it our for yourself. MSRP is $79.99. www.VanguardWorld.us
MagPul Backpacker Stock
When it comes to “cool-factor” MagPul has eclipsed it this year with new stocks for the Ruger 10/22 Takedown. First, they released their uber cool MagPul Hunter stock for the takedown 22 and now the Backpacker Stock which takes convenience and portability to an entirely new level. While it may not float like the AR-7, it is much more functional. And if you really want it to float, lightweight, soft cases can be purchased which will allow it to do just that. The Backpacker stock allows for the use of optics on the 10/22 without the need for removing them and disrupting your zero. A compartment in the stock allows for the storage of three, ten-round magazines or you can choose to load the compartment with a mixture of magazines and 50-round boxes of 22 ammo. The barrel and receiver solidly nest together, even with an optic, when the gun is broken down. Check it out for yourself at www.MagPul.com. MSRP is $109.95.
This video from MagPul shows just how the Backpacker stock works. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l6npd2WbJTw
5.11 Tactical
5.11 makes more than its iconic khaki tactical cargo pants. They feature a full line of clothing, shoes, boots, bags, knives, and more. My personal collection of 5.11 gear is extensive and is well used. The company is innovative and each year unveils new products for shooters, law enforcement and military professionals. This year, 5.11 has released their Defender-Flex series pants and jeans. pants and jeans This new line of pants is designed for those who need tactical pants with looking like they are wearing tactical pants. They are full of 5.11features and constructed of a stretchable fabric that moves and conforms to any situation you may find yourself in. I’ve been wearing two pair since SHOT Show and they are the best fitting and most comfortable 5.11 pants I own, maybe the most comfortable pants I own, period. About $70. www.511Tactical.com.
Check out this video featuring the Defender Flex series of pants.
About Doug Gilmer:
Doug Gilmer is a law enforcement and military veteran with over 25 years. With experience and assignments operating throughout the United States and around the world in a variety of investigative, protective, tactical and direct action roles. He is an avid outdoorsman who enjoys fly-fishing, hunting with a handgun. As well as backcountry adventures, and volunteering with various outdoor themed wounded warrior events. He has been a frequent contributor to outdoor media. For for several years with numerous articles and photos published in a number of media channels. He is a member of the Professional Outdoor Media Association as well as a former board member and executive officer.