Duty lights are often associated with professional use, but their benefits extend far beyond that. Keeping a powerful, reliable flashlight in your home or vehicle is a smart idea for those unexpected situations.

So, if you’re looking to add, upgrade, or replace a flashlight, you have to check out the new Streamlight PROTAC HL 6.

About the Streamlight PROTAC HL 6

The Streamlight PROTAC HL 6 is designed to deliver a powerful output while maintaining a smaller overall size and shape. This makes it easier to grip and fit into common flashlight holders. A stair-step design starts out at about 1.25 inches and steps up to 1.75 inches before the head of the light, which is 2.25 inches. Small flattened areas around the head of the light keep it from rolling when set on hard surfaces.

A soft rubber grip lines the handle, which makes the light comfortable to hold. The power button is within easy reach of your thumb when holding the light, which is a nice touch. Sometimes, it’s the small things that stand out the most.

Built with an anodized aluminum body, it can resist impact and abrasions. It’s also water-resistant and carries an IPX7 rating. This means it should be able to withstand submersion in water up to one meter deep for 30 minutes without any issues.

Battery life is another critical aspect of any flashlight, and the PROTAC HL 6 uses Streamlight’s rechargeable batteries, which is another big plus for me.

It runs on two SL B48 rechargeable batteries, so you don’t have to keep buying expensive batteries to keep it going. When fully charged, the HL 6 has a 2-hour run time. But if you need to conserve battery, the low setting offers a more modest 600 lumens with a runtime of up to 20 hours.

Incredible Output Potential

The PROTAC HL 6 has a staggering output of 5,300 lumens, making it one of the brightest lights on the market. This light can illuminate vast areas, cutting through the darkness with a simple press of a button.

But what exactly do those lumens mean? In short, lumens measure the total amount of visible light emitted by a source. The higher the lumen count, the brighter the light. At 5,300 lumens, the PROTAC HL 6 can easily light up just about any area you need it to.

10-Tap Programming

One of the best things Streamlight has incorporated into their lights is the 10-tap programing. This allows users to customize the light’s output to suit their needs. The 10-Tap system provides three different modes: high only, low/high, and high/strobe. This provides plenty of options depending on what you need the light for. I like to use the bright only, or low/bright mode.

High Only Mode: On this setting, you get a maximum of 5,300 lumens with a single tap of the power button. This mode is perfect for situations where you need instant, intense illumination. Whether you’re clearing a room, searching a large area, or signaling for help, it’s bright enough to do the job.

Low/High Mode: In this mode, the light will first turn on at the lower 600-lumen setting with a single tap. A double tap switches to the full 5,300 lumens. This mode is ideal if you want the flexibility of both a lower, more conservative light and the option to ramp up the brightness when needed.

Programming the PROTAC HL 6 is straightforward. By tapping the power switch rapidly ten times and holding it on the tenth tap, the light will cycle to the next available mode. Repeat this process for each mode on the light.

How does it hold up in the field?

A flashlight’s true worth is determined by how well it performs in real-world conditions. I put the Streamlight PROTAC HL 6 through several tests to see how it would hold up. Here’s what I found:

Water Submersion Test

To evaluate its water resistance, I submerged the PROTAC HL 6 in a bucket of water for 30 minutes. After the test, there was no sign of water intrusion, and the light continued to function perfectly. I don’t make a habit of dropping my lights in water for that long, so if it can withstand that, I’m happy.

High-Heat Test

To simulate extreme temperature conditions, I put the PROTAC HL 6 in my oven at 150 degrees for one hour. This is the type of light I would leave in my patrol or personal car, so I want to make sure it can withstand a hot summer day.

I wasn’t surprised to see that the flashlight showed no signs of malfunction or battery drain. When I took it out of the oven, it worked perfectly. Further, the batteries were still in good condition and did not show any signs of swelling or leakage.

Impact and Cold Test

After the heat test, I put the PROTAC HL 6 in my freezer overnight to evaluate how cold temperatures would affect its performance and battery life. The next morning, the flashlight was taken out and turned on immediately. Despite being subjected to freezing temperatures all night, the light was just as bright, and the batteries appeared unaffected. I turned it on for more than an hour with no sign of low power.

My last test involved dropping the light from chest height multiple times onto my hardwood floors. It survived each drop without any damage. Normally, if something breaks when dropping flashlights, it’s the bulb. However, the light stayed completely intact and in perfect working condition.

Clearly, the light is built to last, and I think it’s safe to say I’d trust it for duty use any day of the week. That’s not always the case with some “duty” lights, but the PROTAC HL 6 doesn’t disappoint!

Bright and easy to use

Each of the two batteries is rechargeable by using a USB-C cable. Streamlight includes a double head (y-cable), so you can charge them both at the same time. If you ever want a second set of batteries for extended use, you can buy them from Streamlight.

After using the HL 6 for a while, I can say this is one of the better duty lights I’ve used so far. It’s light, super bright, and the perfect size for daily use. The Streamlight PROTAC HL 6 is easy to use and built to last for years. If you need a new light, I recommend checking this one out. It’s perfect for any dark occasion.

The post New 5,300 Lumen Streamlight PROTAC HL 6: Flashlight Review appeared first on The Mag Life.

It’s easy to forget how crucial good ear protection is, especially when we’re focused on hitting targets or just enjoying some range time. I used to be guilty of this myself until I discovered the AXIL XCOR electronic earplugs. Unlike those big, bulky earmuffs, these things are light, portable, and still going strong after more than a year of use.

AXIL XCOR PRO Electronic Ear Plugs

AXIL is a company known for producing high-quality hearing protection. Before the earplugs, I used their TrackR Blue earmuffs. Those work great, but when you want something more compact, the XCOR are hard to beat.

The company focuses on providing users with advanced technology that not only protects hearing but also enhances it in situations where maintaining situational awareness is critical, like on the range or during a hunt. The AXIL XCOR electronic earplugs are one of their best products so far. They are designed to offer a more compact and convenient alternative to traditional hearing protection.

This makes them ideal for use in noisy environments where you still need to stay aware of what’s happening around you. They are especially useful for firearms training or competition shooting, where rapid and clear communication is essential.

Charging these earplugs is straightforward. They come with a small, portable charging case that doubles as a storage container. The case can fully charge the earplugs several times before needing to be recharged itself. This makes the XCOR not only easy to use but also incredibly portable. You can easily toss the case in your range bag, glove box, or even your pocket, and you’ll have reliable ear protection whenever you need it.

AXIL XCOR PRO Specs:

• Noise Reduction Rating (NRR): 29 dB
• Battery Life: 8-12 hours per charge
• Charging Time: 2 hours
• Portable Charging Case: Yes
• Bluetooth Compatibility: Yes, 5.2
• Weight: 1.2 oz (earplugs only)
• Compact and Portable Design

How do they perform one year later?

One of the challenges when buying any new product is the lack of long-term reviews. Sure, a product might be great out of the box, but how does it hold up over time? Well, after more than a year with my AXIL XCOR PRO electronic earplugs, I can confidently say they’ve been worth every penny.

I’ve used them for a variety of tasks, from work training exercises to casual range sessions, and they’ve held up incredibly well.

It’s amazing how effective they are at blocking out loud sounds. I can even listen to music when I’m mowing or at the range and still hear everyone else around me.

They’re still working just as well as they did on day one. The audio clarity is fantastic, the noise reduction is reliable, and the portability makes them a must-have for anyone who wants a good pair of Bluetooth earplugs. I’ve even used them with my power tools when working out in the shop.

How do they compare to traditional earmuffs?

When it comes to ear protection, most people automatically think of traditional earmuffs. They’re effective, sure, but they come with their own set of challenges. For starters, earmuffs are often bulky, which can be uncomfortable, especially when worn for long periods.

After about an hour or so, I usually find that they start to hurt my head. The pressure from the headband and the weight of the earmuffs can become distracting, taking away from the shooting experience.

Plus, I don’t have to worry about them interfering with a ball cap or beanie, which is a big deal for me, especially in the winter. Anyone who has tried wearing earmuffs and a beanie at the same time knows how awkward and uncomfortable it can be.

While traditional earmuffs have their place, especially in industrial or highly noisy environments, the XCOR PRO earplugs are a more versatile and convenient option for those who don’t want a bulky set on their heads. They offer the same level of hearing protection but in a far more compact and comfortable package.

Final Thoughts

If you’re still relying on that old pair of earmuffs you’ve had for years, it might be time to upgrade. I reviewed them a while after I started wearing them, and they were great. But it’s nice to find a product that you still like after some time has gone by.

I’ve tried other products that appeared to be good, but after some time, I found they broke or did not work as well.

These earplugs, though, have performed well. They offer everything you need in terms of noise reduction, but they do it in a package that’s light, comfortable, and incredibly portable. After a year of regular use, I can say they’ve held up well and continue to perform just as reliably as the day I got them.

Whether you’re hitting the range for a quick session or spending the entire day in a noisy environment, the XCOR PRO earplugs are an excellent investment. Use them for shooting, mowing, working in the shop, tuning out the spouse, or whatever you need ear protection for. These have proven to be a product that will hold up great over time.

The post AXIL XCOR PRO Electronic Ear Plugs: One Year Later appeared first on The Mag Life.

To be completely transparent, I am on the SilencerCo pro staff and work with SilencerCo in a few different ways. That said, they do not require me to review this suppressor, do not pay me to review it, and certainly don’t pay me enough to lie. As far as companies go, SilencerCo is very responsive to criticism and works to improve its designs based on consumer feedback. That’s how we got the 556K of the Velos series.

The Velos LBP 556K – What’s In a Name

We’ve covered that the K model is the shorter, lighter version of the regular Velos LBP, so that’s out of the way. Velos is simply the product name, but LBP means something. Specifically, it stands for Low Back Pressure. The Velos LBP series uses a flow-through design that reduces back pressure. Suppressors work by slowing down gas and allowing it to cool. When all that high-pressure gas hits the baffles in a can, it slows down but still has to go somewhere.

Since there’s plenty of room to go backward, that’s what it does. That gas throws dirt and debris into your gun and sometimes in your face. Different guns have different levels of gas blowback, but in semi-auto guns, it’s a standard problem. The Velos LBP uses a flow-through design with a precision additive manufactured baffle stack made from Inconel. The flow-through design allows the gas to flow through the can instead of rearward into your face.

Gas blowing back into your face can be annoying, downright painful, and eye-watering. Besides being uncomfortable, it’s also not good for you to get all that carcinogenic material tossed into your mouth, nose, and eyes. It eventually ends in your lungs, which we all know isn’t good for you. Flow-through suppressors are the future of suppressors.

Breaking Down the Velos LBP 556K

We’ve covered weight, length, and design, but what are we missing? For one, the suppressor has a diameter of 1.73 inches. It’s designed for Charlie and ASR mounts and comes with a Charlie ASR mount. The front of the can features SilencerCo’s latest Flash Hider Front Cap. This reduces muzzle flash from the front of the can, which becomes even more important for short-barreled guns.

The Velos LBP series utilizes a fully welded design. It can’t be taken apart, and it’s not modular. The use of a fully welded design is durability. The Velos LBP 556K has no minimum barrel length and is rated for full auto fire. The average Joe isn’t going to damage the can through normal use. It’s a hard-use suppressor and resigned to take a high round count beating.

To The Range

I strapped the Velos LBP 556K onto my gassiest AR, which is, oddly enough, a homebuilt upper on an old ARES SCR lower. Maybe it’s the weird lower, or perhaps I suck at building uppers. Either way, it’s the gassiest gun I have ever had, and it felt like an excellent way to test the LBP 556K. I strapped on the Charlie ASR mount and locked the suppressor onto the gun.

It threads on the flash hider mount, and there is always something so fun about threading a suppressor onto a rifle. Once threaded onto the mount, you rotate a locking ring. The ring prevents the suppressor from slipping or becoming unthreaded even a little bit. Once the Velos is on the gun, it stays there until you want it off.

I grabbed some Winchester M855 ammo and loaded up a few mags. The 5.56 rounds are hotter and gassier than the tame .223 Remington loads. I clung tight to the gun and got my nose to the charging handle, trying to detect if any gas was leaking from the back of the gun.

I pumped a dozen rounds through the gun and suppressor and could catch a whiff of gas. My eyes remained tear-free, and gas didn’t start choking me up with every third shot. I didn’t even get the mildly irritating slight wave of gas. The flow-through design works exceptionally well, keeping the suppressed rifle comfortable to shoot continuously.

Keeping it Quiet

According to SilencerCo, the noise is cut down to 149.8 dB. A 140 dB is the threshold for pain, so this doesn’t make your rifle hearing safe. It will trim a significant amount of noise from the gunshot, but you need to keep your muffs on.

Making a 5.56 caliber rifle hearing safe isn’t easy. Most ammo in the 5.56 and .223 Rem world is supersonic, and the supersonic crack isn’t hearing-safe. Only a few specialty subsonic 5.56 rounds exist. They are very far from standard and somewhat pointless.

The Velos LBP 556K provides enough sound suppression to make it much safer for you to shoot. In a home defense scenario, you don’t have time to strap on a set of ear pro, so the suppressor still reduces hearing loss.

Suppressors are quite valuable in an indoor range scenario. I always double up on ear protection when I shoot a rifle at an indoor range. With the Velos LBP 556K, I no longer have to. When you combine the suppressor with a set of ear muffs, you get an extremely pleasant shooting environment.

The Velos LBP 556K helps reduce the fear for new shooters. I’m the gun guy in my group of friends and family, and I’m always happy to play host to new shooters. The Velos have become a big part of those events. The noise suppression makes the weapon much more comfortable to shoot and seems to help new shooters feel more comfortable with the gun psychologically.

Beyond the Noise

The Velos 556K doesn’t just trim noise but also helps with control. Muzzle rise and recoil are cut significantly. Suppressors act like muzzle brakes and do a number to reduce felt recoil. The Ares SCR lower also has reduced recoil, so the combination of the two feels almost like a rimfire rifle. Muzzle rise is also cut because you’re strapping a 12-ounce weight to the end of your gun.

This is where we get into the can’s downsides. It’s a hefty can, and the reason it’s hefty is to be durable and tough. It would not stand up to rapid-fire use on a 5.56 rifle with a 10.3-inch barrel if it weren’t well-made and heavy. Weight is a minor issue, but it’s symptomatic of my main issue with the can as a consumer.

It’s very well made, efficient at sound suppression, and even fairly short with low back pressure. That’s all fantastic, but I’m not sure how many end users need this, and it can be tough outside of the military. Most of us aren’t rocking full auto SBRs. The flow through technology is admittedly fantastic, but the high price point and weight might be a turn-off for some.

If you’re the type of guy or gal wanting the best flow-through can on the market, you’d be hard-pressed not to pick up the Velos LBP 556K. A good argument can be made that a suppressor is often an item you keep for a lifetime due to the NFA, so why not get an extremely durable suppressor?

I really like the Velos LBP 556K and think its pros outweigh its cons. What do you think? Let us know below!

The post The SilencerCo Velos LBP 556K: Keep It Quiet and Short appeared first on The Mag Life.

Then along came a great wave of technology, which made things easier and more complicated at the same time. Noise-canceling earmuffs are the norm for shooters, but noise-canceling earbuds are growing in popularity as well. AXIL is moving up fast in the ear protection world by focusing on new designs, quality, and affordability. Here is a quick rundown of the XCOR Bluetooth noise-canceling earbuds from AXIL.

How well do they stay in your ears?

Canceling out high-decibel sounds while allowing you to hear what your friends are whispering about is just the beginning of these earbuds. They also sync with your phone and allow you to listen to music or answer phone calls. There are several settings on the XCOR earbuds that make them beneficial. I’ll talk about the settings here in a minute. First, I want to talk about the ergonomics of the XCOR buds and how well they stay in your ears.

There are three sizes of both, so I started with the smallest size of foam tips. Just like the old foam earbuds, you squeeze the ends to smash them before placing the earbud in your ear. AXIL recommends you start with the body of the earbud facing the front of you. Slowly twist the earbud up until it is facing the back of you (see photo above). This helps them stay in place during use. I wore mine for about 4 hours and it did cause my ears to start aching some. But regular earmuffs have the same effect on me.

Functions on the XCOR Earbuds

The hard case that comes with the XCOR buds doubles as a charging port. One feature I like is they start searching for Bluetooth devices when you open the lid on the case. Once my phone was connected the first time, the earbuds connected automatically before I even got them in my ears. A charging cord comes in the box, and the case takes about 2 hours to charge. It will charge the earbuds at the same time. Once fully charged, the case has enough power to charge the earbuds 3 full times.

When the earbuds are in music mode, you can tap the right ear to turn them up or the left ear to turn them down. A double tap will pause/play the music, and a triple tap on the right ear will skip a song. In phone call mode, double-tap the right ear to answer or triple-tap to reject. Once you answer a call, the volume works the same as it does with music.

On the range with the AXIL XCOR earbuds

With the audio function turned on, I could easily hear those around me, and the sound was clear. When I would speak, my own voice sounded different to me than it does with earmuffs, but that’s to be expected. I fired several different calibers of handguns and rifles to test the XCOR buds. If you plan to be on the range all day, AXIL earmuffs are a little more comfortable. Earmuffs may reduce noise just a little better, but these work close enough that it’s hard to tell the much of a difference. The upside of the earbuds is they are small and convenient compared to bulky earmuffs.

• 9-29 DB SNR (DEPENDING ON THE EAR TIP STYLE; FOAM PROVIDES MORE)
• USB-C CHARGING
• WATER & DUST RESISTANT
• WIND RESISTANT
• 5.2 BLUETOOTH

BATTERY LIFE

• UP TO 12 HOURS → HEAR CONTROL ONLY
• UP TO 6 HOURS → BT AUDIO ONLY
• UP TO 4 HOURS → HEAR CONTROL AND BT SIMULTANEOUSLY

Do you need a pair of AXIL XCOR earbuds?

These earbuds won’t be a replacement for traditional earmuffs, but they are nice to have as a substitute when needed. Being able to answer the phone, listen to music, and hear normal sounds around you is helpful. They work great at suppressing loud noise like gunshots. You can charge them with a small case that fits in your pocket, and they connect automatically when you get them out. They retail for around $200, and for a small pair of earbuds that can do so much, these things are worth the money.

The post AXIL XCOR Bluetooth Earbuds for the Range appeared first on The Mag Life.

However, thanks to the Razor Walkie-Talkie system, converting your standard electronic earmuffs to a radio-ready system is easier (and more affordable) than ever before. Simply slip it in place, and you’re ready to roll. There are no wires to run or get tangled up in; just turn it on and talk. Most standard two-way radios will also work with this set, making it handy if you already have other radios.

Walker’s Razor Earmuffs

Walker’s Razor earmuffs are among the best noise-canceling earmuffs in this price range. They block sound very well, and the electronic hearing is impressive. The Razor earmuffs use two AAA batteries and will run for up to 40 hours. They have a noise reduction rating of 23 decibels and two hi-gain omnidirectional mics. High-definition speakers provide a clear sound, so you can hear clearly regardless of loud sounds around you.

Razor Walkie-Talkie

The Razor Walkie-Talkie attachment is made specifically to work with Walker’s Razor earmuffs. Connecting them is about as simple as it gets and doesn’t require any tools. Before this part, however, make sure you put the batteries in before installing it. Three AAA batteries are included with the radio, and they’re installed in the back of the attachment, so you’ll have to remove the attachment to install the batteries. To connect them to the earmuffs, remove the clip at the top of the radio. This will reconnect after it’s on the earmuff. Line the radio up on the left earmuff and insert the radio jack.

When you are ready to use the Razor Walkie-Talkie, pull out the top of the short antenna. It will snap open to help provide a better signal. Push and hold the power button, and the radio will turn on. Once the power is on, it will indicate a channel on the small digital screen. Two arrows to the side will control the volume of the radio.

To change the setting, press the power button one time, and the screen will begin flashing. While the screen is flashing, continue to press the power button to cycle through the menu. To change one of the settings, use the volume buttons on the side. Once you have cycled through the entire menu of options, the screen will stop flashing and display the channel once again. A manual transmission button is located on the bottom right of the radio.

Available settings include:

• Sub-Chanel: This setting allows you to set multiple radios with a primary channel and the same sub-channel. Headsets with a specific primary and sub-channel combo will not receive transmissions from other radios. This is helpful if you have two different groups of people wearing earmuffs and don’t want them to hear each other.
• Voice-Activated Transmit (VOX): This setting will be turned off by default. To turn it on, use the volume buttons while the screen is flashing on the VOX menu. A low and high setting will determine how well the mic picks up your voice. You can rotate the mic downward so it’s closer to your mouth while talking.
• PRI – Priority Channel: This setting is useful for ranges or worksites. When a priority channel is set, a transmission from that channel will override those on a regular channel. For example, everyone on the range can set their radio to channel 2 and the priority channel to 1. A range master can place his radio on channel 1 so everyone can hear him. If people are talking when the range master transmits, all radios will pick up that transmission instead. They will not be able to transmit out while the range master is queued up.

How well does the radio work?

Remember those radio sets that claimed to have a 2-mile radius when you were little? Going outside the house would block the signal and render them useless. Of course, they were still fun to play with as long as you had a straight line of view to get a signal. Radios have come a long way, even analog two-way radios like these. The sound is amazingly clear, regardless of the cost of these things. On my first test, I had one person go to the basement of my home while I went outside. I walked about 100 yards out and stood behind a building to see if I could still get a signal. It was loud and clear. Walker’s claims these have a two-to-three-mile range in clear weather.

Great Buy For The Price

If you want to use the Razor Walkie-Talkie’s voice activation system, it takes some getting used to. It takes about 2 seconds for the mic to pick up your voice and activate the radio. You basically have to say one word to activate the mic and then start talking. The person on the other end needs to wait until they know the transmission is done before they start talking.

You can buy the Walkie-Talkie attachment and earmuffs for about $100, making it a great deal for what you get. I’ve used mine for several days, and the battery is still showing as full. It takes a total of five AAA batteries to keep both units running, but they have a long battery life. If you need a longer range, a better radio can still plug into the Walker’s Razor earmuffs. But if you need a radio for short-range communication, this is a simple, affordable method.

The post Walker’s Razor and Walkie-Talkie Combo: How Does It Work? appeared first on The Mag Life.

Top 5 Shot Timers

Pact Shot Club Timer III

Of the many brands on the market, Pact is among the best known. The Pact Shot Club Timer III is a well-made shot timer that’s user-friendly and also offers a slightly lower price point than some models. This shot timer has an ergonomic design for the ideal fit in your hand, and it has buttons that are easy to operate by touch, so you can run your timer without looking (with a little practice). It features a single metal clip so it can be hooked onto the user’s belt or waistband.

The Pact Shot Club Timer III measures 5.5 inches by 4.75 inches by 2.5 inches and weighs 0.58 pounds. It’s light enough not to add excessive weight to your belt and streamlined to reduce the risk of snagging. This model has a black housing and runs off a single 9-volt battery. Features include the capability to record multiple shots in a single string of fire, an extra loud buzzer, and the ability to choose between instant and delayed start.

Users can review split times and shot times in each string, and par time can be set as well. The digital screen is easy to read and view even while the timer remains on your belt. This is a good, all-around shot timer for shooters looking to improve their times who prefer a straightforward device.

Kestrel KST1000 Shot Timer

For shooters needing a truly rugged, versatile shot timer with numerous features, the Kestrel KST1000 Shot Timer is a great choice. Not only is it backed by a five-year warranty, but there are also many informational videos on its use on the company’s website. The Kestrel KST1000 Shot Timer is larger than others but that’s due to the massive number of features it has to offer. This timer was designed collaboratively with Doug Koenig, so you can be confident it offers useful and precise settings and results.

The Kestrel KST1000 Shot Timer has a bright yellow housing made of rigid material designed to withstand hard use. It’s designed and made in the USA and is waterproof and dustproof. Also, it’s been durable drop tested according to MIL-STD-810G standards. There are five nameable presets on this shot timer as well as two easy-to-operate screens, meaning it can be read from the hip or hand. The buzzer is loud and easy to hear. Perhaps best of all, this model is Bluetooth-compatible. This shot timer has an interface with raised, clearly shaped buttons, making it easier to operate by touch.

If you’re in the market for a high-end shot timer that’s known to be reasonably bomb-proof, check out the Kestrel KST1000.

Competition Electronics Pocket Pro Shot Timer

If you’re looking for a good, basic shot timer that’s well-made and proven in the field, the Competition Electronics Pocket Pro Shot Timer might be perfect for you. This shot timer is designed to deliver super precision and displays times to 199.99 seconds. It’s meant to help shooters improve shot times and offers a classic layout that’s easily recognizable for many gun owners. It has a bright blue, square housing and a neat row of buttons for simple operation.

The Competition Electronics Pocket Pro Shot Timer measures 3.125 inches by 4.25 inches by 1.5 inches and weighs 6.5 ounces. It’s powered by a single 9-volt battery and has an automatic shut-off after ten minutes of inactivity to preserve battery life. This shot timer is made to be operated by right- or left-handed shooters with no concern about the shooter’s hand covering the buzzer or sensor. The 0.5-inch display is easy to read. Features include the ability to review up to 50 shots—forward or in reverse—adjustable sensitivity, and a separate sensor and buzzer. It has a clothespin-style clip to attach it to your belt or waistband.

SG Shot Timer with U-Grip

The Shooter’s Global brand offers the SG Shot Timer with U-Grip, a timer that’s designed with an eye for detail. This shot timer has a U-shape, as its name suggests, allowing it to fit more securely in the user’s hand. It has a black housing and a screen with an innovative design that utilizes the sun’s rays to illuminate the screen from the inside for excellent contrast and clarity. If the sensor detects low light, it will activate a backlight to keep the screen bright.

The SG Shot Timer with U-Grip is made for one-handed use and has an interface that’s user-friendly. Navigating the settings takes a minimal number of clicks using the buttons located on the side of the device, and there’s even a Dedicated Range Officer mode that is straightforward to use during matches. Features include echo filtering, built-in memory, par times, a 5-100 adjustable volume level, and spy mode that allows synching with compatible devices. This is one of the shot timers that is truly compatible with suppressors. And thanks to advanced firmware, you can even record dry fire sessions and review your performance for dry fire and live fire as it relates to set goals.

IPSC Shot Timer

There are quite a few shot timer apps on the market for Androids and iPhones, and the IPSC Shot Timer is a good example. The IPSC Shot Timer is for competitive IPSC, USPSA, and IDPA shooters. It can be used with live fire or dry fire depending on sensitivity settings, and although it was updated in 2019 and has been around since 2011, it’s still listed as being the BETA program.

The IPSC Shot Timer can be used on lengthy strings of fire or set to time only a specific number of shots fired. It works well for par time and offers a variety of relatively user-friendly settings. The fact that it doesn’t automatically run ads is a nice bonus as well. It’s possible to set the beep to randomization and also to adjust sensitivity on your phone, which does mean it might depend on your specific phone when it comes to how well that works.

It’s worth noting that there are quite a few options for shot timer apps and you might just need to try a few to find one that fulfills your needs and also works well with your phone.

The post Top 5 Shot Timers appeared first on The Mag Life.

The quality, function, and everything else are the same. I use Nightstick lights on multiple rifles, shotguns, and handguns because they are affordable and of superior quality. Working in law enforcement, it doesn’t take long for a product to show its true colors, and I’ve had a lot of equipment fail on me over the years. However, Nightstick products have always been reliable.

What’s the difference between candelas and lumens?

To understand the difference between the LGL-160 and LGL-160-T, we need to understand the two measurements of light: lumens and candelas. Lumens tell us the total amount of light that a lighting source emits. In this case, the LGL-160-T emits 800 lumens of light. Think of it as the quantity of light coming from the flashlight. This does not indicate how far the light will travel, but how much is there.

Candelas, however, indicate the amount of light emitted in one direction or the intensity of the beam. If the candela is higher, the beam of light will travel further.

There is a need for both at times, so when selecting a light, it’s important to understand the difference based on your needs for the light. For someone who wants a light that will light up the area around them, a higher lumen and lower candela may be appropriate. But if you want your light to be more concentrated for further distances, a higher candela is better.

About the LGL-160-T

Like the standard 160, the LGL-160-T (Turbo) is made of 6061 T6-Aluminum and has a run time of two hours on the high setting. Because of the high candela, the beam distance is 632 meters, which is impressive for the size of the light. The LGL-160-T runs on two CR123 batteries and will also run on Nightstick’s 4700-BATT optional rechargeable battery. I purchased several rechargeable batteries and the charger so I could save on buying batteries. Nightstick offers a single battery charger kit with two batteries and a dual charger.

• (1) wire management clamp
• (1) Tail switch, cable, and remote pressure switch
• (2) Picatinny rail mounts for remote pressure switch
• (1) standard rail mount
• (1) offset rail mount
• (1) Allen wrench

Another thing I like about Nightstick is the number of accessories they offer. The LGL-ML2 Kit contains an offset mount, an M-LOK wire management clamp, and an M-LOK remote pressure pad mount.

Using the LGL-160-T

When I’m outdoors and want to see targets further away, a high candela light is ideal. In the photo below, you can see the difference between the two beams. The LGL-160 has a brighter output overall but offers minimal beam distance. The LGL-160-T Turbo has an obvious center beam with a longer effective range.

Nightstick makes mounting the remote pressure pad easy with their Picatinny rail mounts. The pressure pad itself is also nice because it has a dual switch mode. Press on the flat section for momentary light and the button on the front for constant light. I’ve talked about their wire management clamps before, but they’re worth mentioning again.

I like the overall size of the LGL-160 Turbo, as it’s the perfect size for both full-size and compact rifles. Nightstick offers many other long gun lights in various sizes and features. The nice thing about these two is that they are both the same size and use the same tail switch and accessories. You can purchase the LGL-160 for about $140. I’m not sure what the Turbo will sell for, but I’m guessing it will be the same price.

When used with Nightstick’s rechargeable battery, this light is perfect for target acquisition at night. It comes with everything you need to install and use it (including batteries). Deciding which one to use may not be easy, but choices are good to have, and Nightstick provides plenty of them.

The post New Nightstick LGL-160-Turbo AR-15 Light: Full Review appeared first on The Mag Life.

You may also want a light for CCW when you’re out and about. So here we are with two lights in that budget-friendly category. Are there any benefits to one over the other? There are things I like most about each light, but I’ve owned both for a while, and they’re still going great. Let’s go over the details.

Sig Sauer Foxtrot 1X Weapon Mounted Light

What I like most about the Sig Sauer Foxtrot 1X is the size. It’s smaller than your typical duty-size light like the Streamlight TLR-1. I wouldn’t call it a micro-light, so we will just use the term “compact weapon-mounted light.” It only weighs 1.8 oz and is 2.4 inches long, so it’s nice for reducing weight on a CCW gun. The Foxtrot 1X is 450 lumens, runs on a CR123 battery, and has a run time of 1.5 hours. You can also replace the battery without taking the light off the gun. Just unscrew the end of the light, and the battery slides out.

Like some other lights out there, the Foxtrot 1X uses paddle-style switches to activate the light. This means the light is ambidextrous as there is a switch on both sides of the gun once installed. Sig Sauer advertises that the Foxtrot 1X has a 4-position sliding rail for custom installation. While it’s adjustable, I can’t get it to fit on several of my weapons. I would say this is my biggest complaint about this light. It will fit on my Glock 19 just fine, but none of my compact guns.

Using the Sig Foxtrot 1X Weapon Mounted Light

When using the Foxtrot 1X light, there are two modes of operation: momentary mode and latching mode. For momentary mode, press and hold the activation switch, and the light will temporarily activate. When you let go, it turns off. Latching mode keeps the light on when you press and release the activation switch. This is common for lights with paddle switches. The paddles on the Foxtrot are a little stiff to push, but not enough that it’s an issue to use.

Sig also advertises a lockout feature on the light, which involves unscrewing the bezel until it breaks contact with the battery. If you’re going to store the light for an extended time, disconnecting or removing it is smart. I’m not sure I would call this a feature, however, as anything that takes a battery with a threaded bezel can be removed to break battery contact. Think of it as unscrewing a light bulb until it turns off.

Holosun P.ID

The Holosun P.ID is a little larger than the Foxtrot 1X and closer to what I would call a full-size light. It’s 5 oz and about 3.2 inches long. One of the most noticeable differences with this light is the rechargeable battery. Holosun uses an 18350 rechargeable battery that can be recharged without taking it out of the light. You get a charging cord in the box with a magnetic head that clips to the light. This makes it easy to charge the light wherever you store it each night.

Like the Foxtrot 1X, the P.ID uses paddles on each side of the light to activate it. You get 1,000 lumens of light on high with a one-hour runtime. The body of the light is made of 7075 T6 Aluminum with an anodized finish. While the P.ID is shaped a little differently than the Streamlight TLR-1, it fits in just about all my holsters. I use multiple Safariland holsters set up for a TLR-1 and some leather holsters. The P.ID fits in them all about the same as the TLR-1.

Using the Holosun P.ID Weapon Mounted Light

Using the P.ID is about the same as using the Sig Foxtrot 1X, with one exception. The P.ID has two power modes to choose from. Out of the box, the P.ID is set at 1,000 lumens. Push on either paddle to activate the light. Just like the Sig model, press and release quickly, and the light stays on. Push and hold, and the light will turn off when you let go. To change the brightness setting, press and hold both paddles simultaneously. The light will change to 500 lumens and remain on that setting unless you change it back.

As I mentioned above, reaching the light is simple, and the charging port is on the bottom of the light. There are two small gold dots, and the cable will connect to them using a magnet. You can set your gun down to charge and, if needed, quickly grab it and go. The magnets will pull off, making it ideal for charging at night, even if you rely on the light for home defense.

Other Specs

The Holosun P.ID is rated at IP68, and the Sig Foxtrot 1X is rated at IPX7. An IPX7 rating means the item is rated for submersion for a period of 30 minutes. IP68 rating means it can be submerged for longer than 30 minutes.

Regarding the warranty, Sig may have Holosun beat, but that remains to be seen. Sig offers an “Electro-Optics Infinite Guarantee.” At first glance, it looks a little like Vortex’s warranty, which is the best I’ve ever seen. Sig states they will repair or replace the product, even if it’s damaged or defective, at no charge.

However, the warranty sheet has a second paragraph titled “Electronic & Tritium Component Limited 5-Year Warranty. It explains that lights and electronics are only covered for five years.

These are two separate warranties, and my Foxtrot 1X box has both warranty logos, which confuses me. I’m not sure what would cover it if the light was damaged or defective. Holosun offers a limited lifetime warranty that covers repair or replacement but does not cover misuse or damages caused by the user.

Who is the Winner?

I like having a smaller compact light, and Sig’s light is a perfect size for CCW. Holosun’s P.ID light is also rugged, and I’ve used it for a while without any issues. Some will have different opinions on rechargeable versus standard batteries, and I fall in the middle of that category. If you’re out in the field and need to keep your light running, changing out a battery is best. For home defense or CCW, however, a rechargeable battery is convenient.

Holosun has a brighter light at 1,000 lumens and lasts for an hour. But even the Holosun’s second setting of 500 lumens is brighter than Sig’s 450. The water rating is higher on the P.ID as well. At $65, the Foxtrot 1X is the cheaper light for those on a tight budget compared to $135 for the P.ID. Both lights are good lights and worth their respective price tags. But if you can spend the extra money, I would go with the Holosun P.ID over the Foxtrot 1X weapon-mounted light.

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It’s an application that has a few different elements to it. First, you need a modern smartphone and some kind of tripod for it. You also need a computer, preferably a laptop. You could use a tablet, but you might not get the most out of a tablet. We also need one of those laser dry-fire cartridges or devices like the Mantis Blackbeard. The application does have a free setting for shooters, but to get the most out of it, a paid subscription is needed. This is the minimum setup you’ll need to use Dry Fire Online. 

Setting Up Dry Fire Online 

Download the Dry Fire Online app on your phone and go to Dry Fire Online’s website on your laptop. Your laptop will act as your display and target. However, you don’t have to use the small monitor of a laptop. You can connect the system to your TV, or in my case, I used a projector and a whole wall as my display. 

Your cell phone’s camera will scan the display and recognize it. There is a quick, easy-to-use calibration system that will have your phone scan the display. The phone reads the target and can perceive the laser fired from your laser-firing device. Once your display is set, it’s smart to calibrate the laser. It’s simple to do and ensures your phone can read the laser. 

Finally, you’ll need to zero your gun and laser to the target. This is easy, and you’ll fire five shots at a bull’s eye, and the app will automatically compensate and adjust. This is based on your position, so if you move drastically, it can change. 

Once this is done, you can start training. Admittedly, of all the dry fire apps and gadgets I’ve used, this one has the most setup I’ve seen. It’s very involved and does benefit from a little practice and patience to get everything right. I’ll admit to being frustrated a few times, but ultimately, I was able to get the system to work like a charm with a little practice. 

What You Can Do 

Once you master the setup process, you are brought to an expansive training app. The app itself features hundreds of targets, stages, and scenarios you can utilize. This can be as simple as USPSA classifiers and Steel Challenge stages to allow you to get the practice to sharpen specific skills for those competitions. You can also shoot beer bottle targets, Texas Spinners, and so many more. 

I really couldn’t list them all because we would be here all day. You can shoot USPSA targets, Bianchi Falling plates, and even moving targets. One of the more fun challenges is to shoot two UPSA targets in a vehicle driving towards you. I’ve been shooting and training with Dry Fire Online for well over a month and feel like I’ve barely explored the entirety of the app. 

The app has plenty of prebuilt drills and apps. We get the classics like the IDPA El Presidente and modern drills like the Dicken Drill, or maybe you just want to shoot hogs at 300 yards. That’s an option, too. There are some more obscure stages, like the Swiss 300-meter stage. There is just a ton to do and train. If you get bored, then that’s on you. You’ll spend a day of training just trying all the different things out. 

Make Your Own 

If you shoot your way through all of the included drills and stages, then build your own. Yep, you can build, save, and share your own stages. You can pick between those tons of targets and set them at various simulated distances in various environments. You can create moving targets that can move forward, backward, to the side and diagonal. You can adjust the speed of that movement as well. 

This is another feature that requires a little time to master. I certainly haven’t mastered it yet, but after a little experimenting, I’m getting the hang of it. Nothing is necessarily difficult to do; it’s just understanding the speed of targets, how they move, and where you put them matters. Experimentation and experience simply let you build the stage you want. 

Sometimes, I just sit in my bed at night, making stages on my laptop. I kinda wish Dry Fire Online had a subreddit or forum to share with other users. I’m betting there is some fun stuff out there. Making your own stage makes it easy to create every training scenario you could imagine. I’ve used movies to be my guide, and so far, my Han Solo vs Greedo Stage is working pretty well.  

Training With Lasers 

I think it’s obvious I’m a fan of Dry Fire Online and its stages and apps, but how well does it work? Lighting is important. If your room is too bright, it’s tough for the app to pick up the laser. Luckily, the room can be dimmed without issues since the display is illuminated. With everything properly calibrated, I didn’t have any issues with the system reading hits. 

When using the projector, I already have a dim rim. However, if you use a projector, bring a tape measure so you can set up your stages correctly.

Proper sizing and distance are necessary to get everything to work just right. The Dry Fire Online app is really picky about those things, and honestly, it’s easy to understand why. There are lots of moving pieces. Heck, even the height of the shooter plays a critical role. Get your stuff right, and it’ll work well. 

To get the most out of this system, I suggest a repeating laser device. Something like the Mantis Blackbeard, the SIRT, or Cool Fire trainer works best. I mostly use a drop-in laser cartridge, and my carry gun. It works for some training needs but doesn’t capture them all. Being able to quickly fire without having to rack the gun over and over will give the most advantage possible. 

Who Is It For

If you would like to shoot and train, Dry Fire Online is for you. If you compete and want to sharpen up your basic skills, then boom, dry fire online is for you. If you want to play and relive the glory days of Duck Hunt but with USPSA targets, then Dry Fire Online is for you. 

It’s really a great system if you’re bored of your standard dry fire practice. It spices things up, allows you to be creative, and allows you to take on real-world drills without spending a dime. Well, I mean, you have a subscription to pay for. Speaking of. 

You can use a very limited version for free. The Beginner subscription costs 2.99 a month, the Advanced subscription costs 4.99 a month, and the Expert subscription costs 6.99 per month.

It’s not free, but it costs about the same as a box of CCI .22LR, so it’s still pretty affordable. You get a free week to check it out, so you can at least see if it’s for you before plunking down your dinero. 

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Red dot optics are a big part of what pushed lasers out of popularity. It’s easy to glance through a piece of glass and see a red dot. But there is still a need for lasers from time to time, and the Holosun LS117R is a great choice if you plan to add one.

A Closer Look at the LS117R

If you’re going to mount a laser on your rifle, it needs to be powerful enough to serve its purpose. The Holosun LS117R features a 5-milliwatt laser emitter, which is the legal limit for a handheld laser in the United States. Powered by one AA battery, the company says it will operate consistently for up to 5,000 hours on a single battery. Much like the optics I purchase, I like devices that use popular and easy-to-find batteries. If possible, an AA or AAA battery is preferred. When it comes to durability, the LS117R is made of 7075 aluminum with a black anodized finish.

As with most laser sights, a simple flathead screwdriver is needed for windage and elevation adjustments. The LS117R also has a small rubber cover over the laser head to protect it from bumps and drops. It’s easy to push to the side when using and pull back over when storing the gun.

Better yet, the Holosun LS117R includes a durable external pressure switch for remote activation. That’s a big deal for most of us tactical shooters. Simply plug the cord into the back of the laser and place the pressure switch anywhere you want on your rail.

Presentation is Everything. Sometimes.

I rarely mention the box or presentation case. If you’re going to use a product, who cares about the case, right? And, let’s be real; sometimes, there’s just nothing spectacular about the box.

But I must mention the Holosun’s storage case for this laser. The LS117R comes in a heavy-duty plastic case with solid hinges and latches. A molded insert creates a place for everything, including the laser, pressure switch, T10 key, and several batteries. Because the quick-release mount makes it easy to install and remove the laser from a rifle, I may actually use this case for safe storage when I’m not using the host rifle. If you decide not to use the pressure pad, it’s also a good place to store it until it’s needed.

Mounting and Using the LS117R

Deciding where to put your laser may take a little thought, as there isn’t one place all lasers must go. If you don’t have a front sight on your rifle, it can go on top of your handguard. It could also be mounted on the bottom of the handguard, or either side, depending on where you have room. This will depend on where your flashlight is mounted. I decided to put my LS117R on my older Bushmaster AR-15 with an extended quad rail.

There is a toggle switch on the back of the laser with on, off, and remote momentary. If you don’t want to use the pressure pad, you can use the standard switches on the laser. To use the heavy-duty pressure pad, plug the cord in the back beside the switch and turn it to the remote setting. It’s that simple.

Do you need a laser?

Like I said in the beginning, some people like lasers, and others do not. It really depends on how you want to use it and how much you train with it. They can be great for home defense because you can see where your muzzle is pointing and get on target quickly. I know a few people who hunt with a laser sight because lasers can help deliver a clean shot at closer distances.

But, in the end, looking through a red dot and watching a laser are two different things and require different types of training. There’s nothing wrong with adding a laser to your rig if you think you may need it someday. Just make sure you train with it and zero it in as you would an optic.

Overall, this is a great little laser sight that appears to be extremely durable and powerful. If you prefer green over red, Holosun offers that as well with the LS117G model. The red laser retails for around $275 and the green for a little over $300.

If you want to spend even more, you can purchase a laser sight with an IR illuminator for around $800. But for those who just want a durable laser without all the bells and whistles, this is a great model, and you get the Holosun reputation along with it.

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