Editor’s Note:This is a guest post from Sgt. Steve Odom. Steve’s bio is at the end of this article.
This is the third post in a three part series. Also check out Shot Show 2010 Part 1: Patrol Rifles and Shot Show 2010 Part 2: Duty Handguns and Revolvers.
Slings
I looked at three different slings at the show that caught my attention. I will explain the high points of the various slings that would be valuable for police work.
Urban Sentry and Patrol Vest Sling
The Urban Sentry is a well thought out sling that can be changed from a single point to a two point sling in about a minute. This is a nice feature, if you do urban operations you might prefer a single point set up. I like to run a two point sling for rural work such as tracking or open area operations. The sling is attached to the weapon via a quick detach fastex buckle. You can wear the sling all day in the single point configuration and just attach the weapon as needed. This is a nice feature for range training, it is very simple to unclip your weapon and rack it during lecture or down time. This is also great for S.W.A.T. applications. Put on the sling at the start of your day and remove it at the end of the day. Unclip the weapon when it is not needed. No more struggle to sling and un-sling a long gun over your kit 20 times a day.
This company also makes a Patrol Vest Sling (PVS). This sling attaches to your patrol vest and is worn under your uniform shirt. When a long gun is needed you pull the tab out (from under your uniform shirt) with the female attachment buckle and attach your patrol rifle, shotgun, or less lethal that is equipped with the male attachment tab. This is a versatile system that will not tangle up in your lapel microphone, badges or nameplates. The operator can grab any weapons system equipped with the male fastex attachment and clip into the sling in seconds. If you have several long guns in your patrol car this system is worth looking into.
The slings cost about $50 and are available at www.urbanertslings.com or (317) 694-9689.
MS3
The MS3 (multi mission sling system) by Magpul is another sweet sling that you can convert from a single point to a two point. The advantage of the MS3 is you can do this in about 3 seconds. This sling is easy to transfer from primary to support side. It is easy to convert from a one-point to two-point. It is top quality construction and is quick to adjust. If used as a two point sling the operator can quickly cinch down the sling to enhance the stability. This sling has it all in a high quality, well thought out package. It cost about 50 dollars and comes in black, dark earth and O.D. green. You will want to look at the ambidextrous sling attachment and rail sling attachment to get the most out of the sling. Available at www.magpul.com or 1 (877) 462-4785.
Range Equipment
LaRue Sniper Target
The LaRue Sniper Target, by LaRue Tactical. The Larue Tactical Sniper Target is a small steel silhouette knock down target that will automatically reset.
The target has a rechargeable mechanism that will automatically reset the steel silhouette. The steel will handle any rifle round up to the .338 Lapua. It would be a great tool for pistol or shotgun training. If you enjoy training on steel but don’t enjoy resetting the targets, this is your target system. The unit weighs about 70 pounds and is equipped with two carry handles. This system will work for a square range setup or could be set up in a training area for a stalking exercise or “jungle trail”. This target will give the shooter instant feed back without the hassle of resetting the steel. Larue Tactical got its start with this target system and it appears to have the premium quality and innovation that LaRue products are known for. The unit costs $1,695 and is available at www.laruetactical.com or (512) 259-1585.
MGM Targets
MGM targets had some great steel targets at the show. I am familiar with MGM Targets from this summer’s Western States Police and Fire Games. I competed in the “Police Action Pistol “at the Los Angeles County Sherriff’s Department Range (at the Pritches Detention Center) and the competition featured lots of steel targets from MGM. One of the most challenging was the MGM Sniper Target. It is a pepper popper style target that is about 12” tall. When shot the target falls then pops back up via a spring loaded mount. This target is very portable, simple and much less expensive than a mechanical reset device. This system will add a new dimension to your rifle or pistol training.
The BC C Zone steel target is a IPSC style silhouette that is mounted on 2X4 and is can be used for patrol rifle training. You can safely shoot .223 caliber rounds at this target at a distance of 15 yards. If you haven’t shoot steel with your .223 you are in for some fun. I highly recommend this target for shooting on the move drills with a patrol rifle.
The last MGM target I looked at is the Precision Rifle Target. This steel target has an opening in the chest and the head for aiming points. When the bullet passes through the target area it strikes a steel door that swings open. When the door is open it creates a simulated hostage rescue shot. Make the shot and close the door.
All three targets where very reasonably priced, well made and well thought out. Available at www.mgmtargets.com.
In summary, I enjoyed the show. I shook hands with Gunner Sergeant R. Lee Ermy (USMCR) and saw Forest Griffin, Ernie Emerson and Dick Marchanko I got to check out lots of weapons and made some good connections. I learned about new weapons systems and equipment. I saw some great new stuff and some equipment that made me laugh. I hope this review will give you some direction if you are in the market for some new gear.
If you want stay updated on firearms and equipment I would recommend checking out the SHOT show.
About the Author: Sergeant Steve Odom
Sergeant Steve Odom is a former infantry Marine and sixteen year veteran of the San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s Department. Sergeant Odom is currently a Patrol Station Sergeant. He has been worked Bike Patrol, Boat Patrol, Dive Team, and S.W.A.T.( Entry Team Leader). He is the Senior Range Master for the Sheriff’s Department and Lead Firearms Instructor for the Allan Hancock Law Enforcement Academy. Sgt. Odom is P.O.S.T. certified to teach all Law Enforcement Weapons Systems, Arrest and Control, Less Lethal Munitions, and Impact Weapons.
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The LaRues are totally sweet, but I don’t know if a 9mm would reliably push them over at 25 or 50 yards. I know a 223 doesn’t reliably push them over at 800, if you hit low.