High Ground Media, LLC

It can often be difficult for firearm instructors to find the right tools and resources that adequately convey the concepts of shooting fundamentals to students. There are any number of gimmicks that can prove either stellar successes, or abysmal flops. Enter the Marksmanship Training Aids by TrainingSights.com that have made it easy for both instructor and student to visualize the same sight picture, and improve the lessons learned.

Made from a transparent sheet of ABS plastic, the Marksmanship Training Aids (MTAs) come in a variety of sizes. The largest (8.5” x 11”) best used for large class demonstration can be clearly seen form a distance, while the wallet-sized (2.25” x 3.75”) is best utilized for one-on-one instruction. The ABS material makes the aids water and stain resistant, and are flexible enough to fit inside a range bag without being overly rigid.

At a basic and intermediate level, the MTAs come in a variety of pistol and rifle configurations and sight colors. This allows the broadest number of students, regardless of personal firearm selection, language, or experience to associate what is conveyed in instruction (both audibly and visually) to their own sight picture. This speeds learning and limits excessive lectures.

More advanced MTAs incorporate a Red Dot Sight picture, or more common scope reticles for long-distance shooting education.

The Marksmanship Training Aids are available in White, Red, or Black sight configuration and come in either 8.5” x 11” (Legal), 4” x 6” (Notecard), or 2.25” x 3.75” (Wallet) sizes.

Product Evaluation Scores:

• Cost – Good (4/5): Price per Marksmanship Training Aid varies based on complexity and overall size, with the more simplified wallet versions costing $4.50 each—to the largest 8.5” x 11” pistol aids (which comprise two pages for both sight posts) at $20.99. Thus, for its varied size and the durability of the ABS material, the MTAs make for a very good and affordable product. In comparison, other similar training aids vary in creativity and cost (such as homemade wooden/PVC sight alignment trainers), visual graphic illustrations, or tried-and-true dime/washer drills. But in all these alternatives the training aids are fixed and static, and require associated lecture to explain concepts. The MTAs by TrainingSights.com allow both the trainer and trainee to visualize the same training concepts, in the same sight picture. This alone can eliminate confusion and speed success.
• Comfort – Good (4/5): For its various sizes, the MTAs were still semi-flexible and pliable enough so as to not be bulky in a range bag. They were also lightweight enough so as to not be burdensome when carried. Thus, when using them, the clear background and stark sight picture silhouettes, allowed the trainer to easily demonstrate proper sight picture and convey various concepts as related to fundamental techniques effectively and clearly.
• Durability – Average (3/5): The principle material to the MTAs was a transparent ABS plastic, into which is printed the sight picture silhouettes. The use of this material meant that the MTAs were water and stain resistant; however, as a softer polymer it was not completely scratchproof. When in contact to hard-edge metal, such as wire cleaning brushes or firearms, the ABS material became superficially marred. Thus, the best means of protection for the MTAs and preserve its durability was to either slide them into the portion of range bags intended for targets/documents and apart from the main compartment with ammo, firearms, and cleaning supplies—or to retain them in a separate folder or binder. The smaller MTAs were easier to store in this regard as they could easily be kept in a side pocket of the range bag or in the individual’s clothing pocket and produced quickly.
• Functionality – Excellent (5/5): Functionally, while the MTAs were all simplistic in design, it was what they helped convey that was far more beneficial—a shared understanding of principles and concepts between instructor and student. In almost all methods of training aids (classroom lecture, drawing illustrations, homemade sight blocks, etc.); instructors are often left demonstrating concepts that then conveyed to the student in the hopes that they understand and internalize the message. Instructors have no awareness if what lesson was being communicated, was done so correctly until shots went downrange and the results are seen on paper. Then the instructor is left to try and get “inside” the student’s head to help either correct or guide the student to attain success. In contrast, the MTAs (printed on large and clear ABS material) allowed the instructor to manipulate various representations of iron sight pictures, holographic red dot images, or multi-power scope reticles to easily help convey the concepts and lessons. Literally using the MTAs was so easy that even a young, aspiring 5yr old novice shooter was able to understand what the sight picture needed to look like to get rounds on paper. The ability to draw upon a variety of different reticle and sight configurations meant that the instructor was able to easily customize the training aid to fit some of the most common firearms and optics on the market.
• Weight – Excellent (5/5): From the largest 8.5” x 11” (2 ounces), the 4” x 6” (0.4 ounces), or the 2.25” x 3.75” (0.025 ounces), all the MTAs were amazingly light and not cumbersome in any degree. Weighing less than a notepad, these training aids easily could fit in a variety of locations without being noticeable until needed. In contrast, other training aids noted above (white boards, homemade wooden boxes, endless field manuals) obviously all weight more than these simple ABS sheets. Again, this showed the benefit to these training aids in that they can be stored in any location without much bulk or weight added to the training kit.

Overall Rating – Good (21/25)

Product Link: https://www.trainingsights.com

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.

Made for the everyday carry, the Wedge by Streamlight offers users the ability to have a variable-powered handheld flashlight that is light enough to be easily carried in the pocket, bag, or to their gear.

Made from an overall body of anodized aluminum, the Wedge was released in 2021 as a means to expand the Streamlight product line for daily use products. Measuring in at 5.46” (L) x 3.30” (W), the Wedge includes a slim, ergonomic design whereby all seams and the USB charging port are IPX7 sealed to make the flashlight waterproof for 30 minutes up to a depth to 1 meter.

The Wedge’s design includes a rotating, interchangeable control switch and reversible belt clip to ensure that when needed, the switch is indexed properly. In addition a tapered body, grooved sidewall, and attached wrist lanyard help ensure positive retention and comfort.

The internal, USB-C rechargeable battery in the Wedge provides the lighting element a continual ON runtime of up to three hours with 300 lumens to a distance of 69 meters. The new Temporarily Heightened Regulated Output (THRO) feature built into the switch will momentarily increase that output to 1,000 lumens for 110 meters and last up to 35 seconds before returning back to the main output setting (this prevents power drain). It should be noted that the control switch has an internal power indicator for easy visual recognition on available battery charge.

The Wedge is available in Black (featured) and Coyote.

Product Evaluation Scores:

• Cost – Average (3/5): Depending on retailer, the Streamlight Wedge can be found at a number of distributors between $80 (from Flashlight Depot), and $99 (at Cabela’s) depending on availability and model. The wedge brings together ergonomic design in an EDC-friendly aluminum chassis that will always be ready when needed. Consumers should take note to order only from trusted or direct distributors as counterfeits are always a risk when purchasing online. In contrast, the Surefire Stiletto ($99), the Fenix E35 ($69.95) from Fenix Lighting, and the Olight i5T EOS ($29.95) all show the variance in price among EDC pen lights, and while lumen output and design play a great deal in price, the Wedge offers an appropriate (or average) balance of function and cost.
• Comfort – Good (4/5): From a comfort aspect, the Wedge fit into the hand similarly as a wide-tipped sharpie or thick highlighter, with a similar feel in heft. The aircraft-grade materials of the Wedge didn’t make it feel excessively weighty, nor unbalanced. Meanwhile, keeping it clipped inside the pocket for daily wear felt secure and at no point inadvertently poked or fell out. The rotating switch moved easily with little tension under the spring when pressing to the THRO setting, and when released returned to its normal setting. The lumens generated were comfortable for the eye and did not flood a room or confined space.
• Durability – Good (4/5): With a housing made entirely from aircraft-grade aluminum, the Wedge had a durability level comparable to many market comparators. This ensured regardless of what gets knocked around against the light, or situation it is employed, the Wedge continued to hold a high-degree of impact resistance. Another feature tested was the glass (presumably Borofloat similar to that found in other Streamlight products) by striking it against a tabletop and magazines ten times. This neither impacted the ability of the Wedge to function nor damaged the front-end glass or the LED element. Some superficial marring was noted at the point of impact, but was merely cosmetic and did not penetrate to the lower base metal.
• Functionality – Good (4/5): Functionally there wasn’t much to the Wedge aside from its normal 300 lumen function, and the 1000 lumen THRO setting. The ability to quickly apply the THRO setting was a nice additive, although it would have been better if there had also been a selectable strobe feature for defensive purposes. The included visual battery status built inside the switch did provide immediate recognition on what power status was available and when it needed to be recharged. Moreover, the ability to switch the belt clip around and reverse the switch position did mean that the Wedge was a comfortable fit for left or right-handed individuals.
• Weight – Good (3/5): Weighing in at a demure 3.3 ounces, the Wedge brought together the ability to serve as a handheld light, with a variable throw of up to 1,000 lumens, in just a very small and robust package. The reversible belt clip allowed for the Wedge to be easily attached inside the pocket or bag while its overall weight was neither distracting, off-balance, nor pulling on the pocket or belt. In contrast, the Surefire Stiletto (2.8 ounces), the Fenix E35 (2.36 ounces) from Fenix Lighting, and the Olight i5T EOS (2.12 ounces) all show that the Wedge is only slightly heavier that other market competitors (though that difference is probably less than people could perceive) and appropriate (or average) for the device and market.

Overall Rating – Above Average (18/25)

Product Link: https://www.streamlight.com/products/detail/index/wedge

I am reviewing this product as a courtesy to the manufacturer and via High Ground Media, LLC., 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.

Initially introduced in 2013, the V-Lite by S&S Precision has been an industry mainstay for helmet marking lights, due in large part to its effective design and programmable light output.

Made from a semi-flexible and transparent silicone body, the V-Lite is tapered personal identification light that measures 4.25” in overall length, and 1” wide.

The V-Lite utilizes a programmable 1-button, multi-function program to cycle through a variety of continual ON (1/4, ½, ¾, or full power), Intermittent (Blink), and OFF settings. An on-board microlight provides early low battery warning. The overall emitter is IPX8 certified for water immersion up to 30 min in 60’ of water.

The back of the V-Lite has hook-and-loop (male) material the entire length of the light and includes a nylon lanyard.

Powering the V-Lite is a non-replaceable/non-rechargeable battery that provides 120 hours of continual run-time (on LOW) to the enclosed LED emitter.

The V-Lite is available in White (featured) and eight other popular colors (including Infrared).  

For NIJ approved protective products visit Nightfall Solutions. 

Use code HGM10 at checkout to receive 10% entire order!

For detils see announcement here.

Product Evaluation Scores:

• Cost – Good (4/5): With a list price of $44.75, the V-Lite is an inexpensive PID marker in a market otherwise dominated by robust and professional devices that easily cost over $100. The V-Lite’s inexpensive materials, and practical approach allow it to come in at a much lower price point that is ideal for professionals and civilians alike. Comparative PID markers to the V-Lite include the SPARK ($18.00) from Unity Tactical, the MS-2000 (M2) LED Strobe Marking Light ($169) from ACR Artex, the VIP IR Marking Light ($180) from Adventure Lights, and the HEL-STAR 6 ($205) from Core Survival. While many of these alternatives are designed with more robust housing and components, the V-Lite is still at a good and cost-affordable price point in comparison to the current market of PID marking lights.
• Comfort – Good (4/5): The V-Lite has a base tail made from a flexible, transparent polymer material attached to a hard housing that provided a good overall level of comfort, and the flexibility needed when articulating along the curvature of a helmet. The emitter housing itself was more rigid to affix on a helmet or other surface, with a tangible sensation to the ON/OFF switch that the end-user was be able to both visually and tactically feel the functioning to the button switch. Otherwise the V-Lite itself was not cumbersome nor bulky while mounted on a helmet, and not negatively noticeable in any comfort aspect.
• Durability – Average (3/5): From a durability aspect, the V-Lite yielded an appropriate (or average) level of durability for its size and materials. The pliable polymer shell gave the PID marker the necessary level of flex to withstand the impacts of being dropped 10 times from an approximate height of 6’ without breakage or failure to the light, and only minimal surface marring due to contact with the concrete. The V-Lite also withstood 30 minutes of immersion without any evidence of saturation or moisture penetration into the interior. It is also likely that the V-Lite would withstand more extreme usage found in some professional applications (air operations) where an impact certification may be needed—although there was no evidence it has been tested for such.
• Functionality – Average (3/5): Functionally the V-Lite was simplistic in both design and intent, with a single button to cycle through the programmable, five-function setting. The variable power/intensity settings allowed the end-user to find a comfortable setting in low-light conditions or when using night vision devices. Moreover, the HIGH setting and tapered body was beneficial as a marking element to carriers, barricades, or barriers at night so that shooters could easily identify directional aspects or locations. The blink setting was beneficial to utilize the V-Lite over extended periods without detrimental impact to the power source. Perhaps the greatest limitation to the overall function of the V-Lite was the power source itself, with it being non-rechargeable or replaceable when expended. Thus, once the battery runs out, the end-user has no option other than direct replacement. It would perhaps be a recommendation to S&S to consider a USB rechargeable power source or something similar. Even if it were to limit the lifespan of the product to 3-4 recharges it would still make the V-Lite a desirable product in contrast to the current market that utilize CR123 power sources and can be replaced.
• Weight – Excellent (5/5): Coming in at just 0.80 ounces, the V-Lite was not noticeable on the helmet, and thus neither off-balancing or bulky. Indeed, the V-Lite had a lower profile than nearly all other PID markers available on the current market. This and the tapered design were beneficial in ensuring the V-Lite did not inadvertently peel off when coming into incidental contact with brush or other surfaces. In contrast, the SPARK (0.75 ounces) from Unity Tactical, the MS-2000 (M2) LED Strobe Marking Light (4.0 ounces) from ACR Artex, the VIP IR Marking Light (3.9 ounces) from Adventure Lights, and the HEL-STAR 6 (2.8 ounces) from Core Survival all demonstrate just how demure and lightweight the V-Lite is in comparison. Thus, for its design and materials, the V-Lite is at an excellent weight for its intended usage.

Overall Rating – Above Average (19/25)

Product Link: https://www.sandsprecision.com/v-lite-blue.html.html

I am reviewing this product as a courtesy to the manufacturer and via High Ground Media, LLC, 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.