High Ground Media, LLC

Building on the success of its polymer sights, in 2013 Magpul expanded its product line by introducing its first, all-metal iron sights in its Pro series. Today the Magpul Back Up Iron Sight (MBUIS) Pro offer a sleek and minimalist flip up sight, with the Magpul legacy in quality.

Constructed from Melonite QPQ™ (a non-corrosive, all-steel material) the Pro delivers maximum strength and corrosion resistance. It is a MIL-STD-1913 Picatinny/STANAG 4694 mountable sight that includes a “no tool” adjustment feature allowing manipulation of the elevation and windage without needing a tool or cartridge. When deployed the Pro has the same height as the standard AR iron sights.

Both the front and rear sights feature positive detents in the up and down positions, as well as on the rear sight elevation knob. The front sight has an Enhanced Front Sight Post that can be rotated to select between Standard (0.060”) and Match (0.040”) sight widths.

Front Sight Specifications:

• Elevation: ~1 MOA (1.131″/100m) per click with a 14.5″ sight radius
• Elevation: ~0.7 MOA (0.820″/100m) per click with a 20″ sight radius
• Weight: 1.5 oz.
• Height above rail, stowed: ~0.43″ max
• Length above rail, stowed: 1.6″

Rear Sight Specifications:

• Windage: ~0.5 MOA (0.566″/100m) per click with a 14.5″ sight radius
• Windage: ~0.4 MOA (0.410″/100m) per click with a 20″ sight radius
• Weight: 1.80 oz.
• Height above rail, stowed, at mid-point: ~0.37″
• Length above rail, stowed: 2.1″
• Aperture height over rail: 1.41″
• Small aperture dia.: 0.07″
• Large aperture dia.: 0.19”

Consumers should be aware, airsoft replicas of the MBUIS Pro are well found and oft poorly delineated from legitimate MBUIS Pro sights. There are also extensive examples of fakes from overseas. Care should be used when ordering from third-party vendors and comparisons to known examples of the MBUIS Pro should be used if not ordering from legitimate vendors.

Product Evaluation Scores:

• Cost – Average (3/5): At $84.95 for the front MBUIS Pro, and $104.95 for the rear, the set ($189.90) was on the relative high end and comparable to other quality BUIS iron sights, such as from Troy ($199), the LWRC Skirmisher ($210), or LaRue ($199). Some internet research revealed the sights are a little cheaper on third party retail sites using online coupons, but not significantly to warrant offsetting the inherent risk of airsoft replicas or fakes from overseas. It should be noted that the Pro is sold mounted on the plastic insert and in individual packaging, not as a cardboard boxed set (a clear indicator that it is not the legit product).
• Comfort – Good (4/5): Much smaller, almost by 40%, than the original MBUIS, the Pro was very lightweight and very compact but still offered the same height as traditional iron sights. Initial concern over the “no tool” elevation/windage feature to move during fire was quickly alleviated as the detents were very positive (although very stiff to adjust). The Enhanced Front Sight Post was a little difficult to pick up in the Match setting at greater distances because the age of my eyes and the sight post’s all black color against an all-black target.
• Durability – Excellent (5/5): The Melonite finish on the Pro is rather well known for its abrasion resistance and long-term durability. It is frequently used on parts regularly exposed to high heat thus why the Pro front sight can now be mounted directly to a gas block as opposed to its predecessor. During testing, drills, and stressors no surface marring was noted and the iron sights held up well.
• Functionality – Average (3/5): The “no tool” elevation/windage aspect of the Pro was a nice change over 90% of the rest of the iron sights on the market that require a proprietary tool or bullet to adjust. The detents when deploying or lowering the Pro were positive and provided a solid lock in either the UP or DOWN position. Gone however was the spring-loaded aspect of the original MBUIS. Research of customer input showed some issues with the locking aspect of the Pro, specifically when the front sight was deployed. Without the spring-loaded aspect, the sight didn’t have that positive pressure against the detent, thus resulting in the front sight occasionally folding down during recoil of heavier caliber rifles (7.62 and larger). During this evaluation, the Pro was tested against 9mm and .223 caliber rifles and this problem was not observed.
• Weight – Average (3/5): Weighing a total of 3.30 ounces for the set (front sight weighing 1.5 ounces, rear 1.8) the MBUIS Pro was nearly the same weight as its predecessor (weighing a combined 2.5 ounces), something attributed to its all-steel design despite being almost half the size. The weight of the MBUIS is also approximate in weight to the above-mentioned market alternatives. The demure weight of the set added very little to the overall weight of the rifle.

Overall Rating – Above Average (18/25)

Product Link: https://www.magpul.com/firearms-accessories/sights/mbus-pro

I am reviewing this product as a courtesy to the manufacturer and via STL Shooting Enthusiasts, so that I can evaluate it and provide my honest feedback. I am not bound by any written, verbal, or implied contract to give positive reviews. All views are my own, and based off my personal experience with the product.

The views and opinions expressed on this website are solely those of the author. The views and opinions do not necessarily represent those of the administrative staff, and/or any/all contributors to this site.

 

In training enclosures, or on an objective, the air quality can often contain high concentrates of lead, carbon, chemicals, and other particulates. Without proper precautions, these can prove harmful if inhaled and a tactical respirator like the SOTR from Ops-Core can prove an invaluable resource.

Released in mid-2019, the Special Operations Tactical Respirator (SOTR) comes in two variants; SOTR with options for compatibility with voice communications, 2 head harnesses and 2 filters, and one without communications compatibility, one harness and one filter (dubbed the SOTR Lite). Made from a combination of full-face, medical grade silicone, nylon support bands, and a central respiratory filter.

The SOTR and SOTR Lite harnessing system consists of a continuous two-point head band that anchors to the respirator’s alThe SOTR and SOTR Lite head-harnessing system consists of a continuous two-point head band that anchors to the respirator’s polymer yolk via four snaps . As the lower support band is adjusted, the upper is tightened or loosened. Overall length for the head band is adjusted via hook-and-loop on the lower support band at the back of the harness.

The facepiece of the SOTR features a half-mask, contoured layer of medical grade silicone that is pleated to fit around the mouth, nose, and chin during dynamic movement, while still maintaining a low enough profile to accommodate eyewear or night vision goggles. There is even sufficient material to accommodate a proper seal with facial hair. Both sides of the frame feature exhalation valves that ensure solid seal and moisture mitigation.

At the front is a quick-disconnect fitting that connects to the principal air filter. The main intent for the filter is to prevent the inhalation of aerosolized lead from discharged ammunition or explosive residue. The P100 filter itself is made from a material that is oil-proof and effective at stopping up to 99.97% of particles. The P100 filter also protects against mold, dust, asbestos, bacteria, aerosolized lubricants, and the inhalation of fentanyl. Editor’s Note: It is important to note to the reader, the SOTR filter is not currently tested to filter out the COVID-19 virus, which is 0.125 microns, but the P100 filter still offers greater protection than the N95 mask (95% effective) or other face masks recommended by the CDC.

Below the filter fitting is a removable microphone (SOTR models only) that is compatible with various Invisio® headsets for microphone integration and other team communications using a standard.

The SOTR is available only in black, and is  one size fits most. For this evaluation a SOTR Lite was utilized given similarities in almost all design factors.

Product Evaluation Scores:

• Cost – Average (3/5): With a list price of $300 MSRP for the SOTR, and $230 for the SOTR Lite, the OpsCore tactical respirators involve an air filtration system that provides freedom of airflow, and inhalation safety to those in training or operating in enclosed areas. While the focus of the SOTR (with its built-in microphone) is for those in a tactical or professional setting, the SOTR Lite product also has equal applicability to civilians training on indoor ranges amid the COVID era. The only market alternative to the SOTR/SOTR Lite would be the Tactical Respirator 2 ($225) by O2 Tactical with its cross-compatibility for comms. Thus, from a price point; and for its overall functional design, the SOTR  is at a fair value for its functionality, while the SOTR Lite (featured in this review) is slightly more affordable and at an appropriate (or average) price point.
• Comfort – Good (4/5): It was easy to appropriately balanced cinching the SOTR/SOTR Lite’s hook-and-loop harness system and aligning its facepiece properly so as to also maintain a good seal, and be comfortable while worn. The adjustable hook-and-loop nape strap did provide a solid adjustment to the overall length of the harness from crown to chin without any accidental slippage during dynamic movements. The silicone of the SOTR’s facepiece had a comfortable contour around the nose, mouth, and chin, and felt stable with the jaw/mouth closed. But when maximum range of motion was applied (i.e. fully opening the jaw or mouth to talk), the mask would lose a small portion of its seal. It is recommended to Ops-Core to address this in subsequent future designs so that the chin and mask maintains its seal for all range of motion. Airflow through the filter was very easy and uninterrupted, even when conducting dynamic movements (sprints) and respiration was increased.
• Durability – Good (4/5): From a durability aspect, the main material in the SOTR/SOTR Lite was the medical grade silicone to the facepiece, which was both flexible and resistant to abrasion. This is the same material that is in military NBC masks and known for its resistance to oil, solvents, corrosion, and puncture. And similarly, the silicone material in the SOTR heavily attracted lint and other particulates, but that didn’t affect fit or seal. The filter lifespan was dependent on the atmosphere involved, with dust and larger particulates obviously clogging the filter material quicker than finer ones. There was some question to the durability of the soft, outer material of the exhalation valve should it make incidental contact with gear or equipment—but these components are replaceable and it is suggested perhaps Ops-Core consider including at least one field replacement with the SOTR should it become necessary.
• Functionality – Good (4/5): Functionally, the SOTR provided a very good flow of oxygen to the user, despite the intake passing through a filter and with an enclosed seal. Some minimal beading of moisture on the interior of the unit, and around the exhalation flapper was noted after an hour of continual and dynamic wear (sprints), but was to be expected and common with this type of device due to moisture in the breath. One positive design aspect of the SOTR was the internal flapper seals kept moisture inside the face piece and did not allow that moisture to pass into the filter itself. Removal and replacement of the clip-on filter at the face of the respirator was easy to do with a simple 80-degree twist, and matching it to the notched filter port on the facepiece was intuitive despite being out of the field of vision. The somewhat bulkier forward profile of the mask did allow for comfortable wear of eyewear without fogging, as well as shouldering a rifle on either side, all while maintaining a proper seal. Ops-Core does offer an alternative helmet harness/mount to allot for quick attach/detach to hook-and-loop panels of a helmet—but those are sold separately with the SOTR Lite (they come with the SOTR model). As is, in its current design the SOTR/SOTR Lite can only be worn under a helmet or headwear, and can only be removed by first removing said headgear. One aspect of functional improvement for Ops-Core to consider would be the inclusion of a MOLLE-compatible or similar attaching pouch as the SOTR/SOTR Lite does not come with any pouch or means of carrying/storage.
• Weight – Good (4/5): With an overall weight of 5.4 ounces (Mask: 3.4 ounces, Harness: 1.5 ounces, Filter: 1.5 ounces) the evaluated SOTR Lite felt very lightweight and did not detract from the front of the face, nor pull excessively on the neck or head muscles over time. Indeed, properly fitted the SOTR Lite hung effortlessly. In contrast, the SOTR (approximately 8 ounces) has slightly more weight due to the integrated communications device. The only available alternative to the SOTR would be the TR 2 (5.1 ounces) and illustrate the SOTR/SOTR Lite has a good level of overall light weight for the consumer and within the market.

Overall Rating – Above Average (19/25)

Product Link: https://shop.gentexcorp.com/ops-core-sotr-lite/

I am reviewing this product as a courtesy to the manufacturer and via STL Shooting Enthusiasts, so that I can evaluate it and provide my honest feedback. I am not bound by any written, verbal, or implied contract to give positive reviews. All views are my own, and based off my personal experience with the product.

The views and opinions expressed on this website are solely those of the author. The views and opinions do not necessarily represent those of the administrative staff, and/or any/all contributors to this site.

Designed to transport your valuable gear, firearms, or anything that needs to be protected – the 1740 Case is part of Pelican’s Protector series that provides significant storage and maximum padding. Pelican has long-established itself as the leader in protective hard cases that come in varying dimensions to meet any mission need.

As with all Pelican cases, the Protector 1740 Long Gun Case is made from Polypropylene to deliver a watertight, crushproof, and dustproof case that provides a significant amount of external protection and stackabiliy. The 1740 itself has four locking cleats designed from lid to base to reinforce its stacking strength.

Exterior

With an overall exterior dimension of 44.16” (L) x 16.09” (H) x 14.00” (W), the 1740’s exterior is comprised of Pelican’s traditional open-cell polymer construction for maximum strength and an impact resistant shell.

The 1740 includes six C-clamp throw latches that secure the lid to the bottom. In addition, there are two double-wide, foldable handles on either end to aid in picking up and stacking.

Several protective features built into the 1740 are its stainless-steel padlock protectors, and its two automatic pressure equalization valves.

On the exterior is a 1630DC document protector placard.

The 1740 has two polyurethane wheels to aid in rolling and transport of the case and its fully packed weight.

Interior

With an interior space of 40.98” (L) x 12.92” (H) x 12.13” (W), the 1740 has an overall internal storage capacity of 3.72 ft³.

A one-piece, rubberized O-ring provides a watertight seal to the interior storage space.

The 1740 comes with six layers of open-cell pick-n-pluck foam that is customizable to meet storage needs.

Specifications:

• The Protector series comes with Pelican’s Lifetime Guarantee of Excellence

The 1740 Protector Long Case comes in Black (featured), Desert Tan, and OD Green.

Product Evaluation Scores:

• Cost – Good (4/5): At $405 the 1740 is one of the larger (and more expensive) firearm hard cases offered by Pelican, shy of its multi-gun weapon lockers. As such it is one of the larger legacy consumer cases within the Pelican line. Pelican recently acquired its closest competitor Hardigg in 2017, and as such many of its mid/larger products don’t have direct peers with the same attention to strength, reinforcing Pelican as a world leader in hard polymer cases. The 1740’s closest peer would be the 3514 R-Series case ($559.99) by SKB, or Nanuk’s 975 case ($249.99) but neither are exact comparisons in dimensions, design or features. Given the legacy of Pelican’s performance, the lifetime warranty of its Protector series, and the cost to storage volume ratio – then the 1740 is a very good quality product for its cost.
• Comfort – Average (3/5): At just over 44” in length across, the 1740 was a bit awkward to pick up, even with the two side handles extended out (adding more length). A third handle in the middle would have made picking it up from two points of contact more comfortable, but perhaps its length or “top-up” intended design prohibited that aspect. As is, once fully loaded with gear or firearms, the 1740 was much heavier than its initial 22-27 pounds and thus necessitated either being carried by two people, or being loaded up at the vehicle or wherever it was being transported. The deep locking cleats provided a secure anchoring point for stacking and gave the overall shell a good amount of added rigidity.
• Durability – Good (4/5): Made from Polyethylene a type of high-density plastic similar to high-density polyethylene, the principle material of the 1740 (and indeed almost all of Pelican’s hard cases) was amazingly durable and resistant to shock. The open-cell foam inserts provided added protection to the equipment and firearms contained inside (more so if the user takes the time to cut specific patterns into the one-piece foam for a specific item), but the foam (by design) tore somewhat easily. The case was dragged over rocks, thrown into a truckbed a number of times, and left out in inclement weather (cold/rain) with no detrimental effect to the foam, stored contents (although some surface marring was noted), or moisture penetration.
• Functionality – Good (4/5): From a functional aspect, the 1740 is like all Pelican hard cases – a protective box. Pelican has a large array of products for the consumer, military/LEOs, first responders and more to choose one that best fits their specific needs. While the 1740 was a pretty straight-forward case (it’s a box – it opens, it closes, it has foam for add padding), it really is more left to the imagination of the user for use and to expand on the functionality of the case. Features like the rolling wheels and pressurization valves were essential as part of the design for long-term use or carrying. The stainless-steel protectors and hinge pins likewise fill an essential aspect of design as it ensured forced entry (shy of cutting) wasn’t possible. Users could custom cut a pattern or design into the foam to add protection of the specific contents. The downside is then it had to be specific to that item (unless you make the cut pattern very generalized). Alternatively, users can invest in a rigid backpanel (similar to what Grey Man Tactical offers) that could go inside the lid and expand its storage capabilities in lieu of excess foam. So, while Pelican cases have a fixed level of functionality, the user’s applicability and aftermarket options are available to expand on its use.
• Weight – Average (3/5): For its size and the volume of Polypropylene material, the 1740 weighed 27 pounds with foam (or 22 pounds w/o foam). This added to its almost cumbersome length and the negative fact it only had two handles by which to pick it up. Definitely a third handle would be of benefit to moving the case as the weight of the 1740 increased dramatically when contents were added. In comparison to the market alternatives noted above, the SKB case weighed 27.20 pounds (with an interior storage volume of 5.14 ft³) and the Nanuk 975 did have a slightly larger dimension, but not a listed weight by the manufacturer (its calculated volume was 6.56 ft³). Thus, the 1740 has a slightly smaller internal storage space as other vendors for near equal weight, but their designs did not reflect the reinforcement cleats, polymer, and hardware attributed to Pelican’s longstanding Protector product line.

Overall Rating – Above Average (18/25)

Product Link: https://www.pelican.com/us/en/product/cases/long-case/protector/1740

I am reviewing this product as a courtesy to the manufacturer and via STL Shooting Enthusiasts, so that I can evaluate it and provide my honest feedback. I am not bound by any written, verbal, or implied contract to give positive reviews. All views are my own, and based off my personal experience with the product.

The views and opinions expressed on this website are solely those of the author. The views and opinions do not necessarily represent those of the administrative staff, and/or any/all contributors to this site.