photo of the day

Photo of the day: My favorite Salomon footwear

Salomon brand footwear has been my go-to company for many years now. I’ve had hiking shoes/boots from a variety of leading manufacturers, but Salomon reigns king in my eyes. I was introduced to my first pair of Salomon boots by the great imperial 1st Ranger Battalion. The Salomon Quest 4D were my first issued pair of hiking boots, but I have acquired many more since then. From the mountains to the sidewalk, they have footwear for all applications, and they have proven themselves in combat with elite units time and time again. Over the next few weeks, I’ll be going in depth on the Salomon models that I have experience with.

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Author – Tim M.

Photo of the day: Sig Sauer M17 pistols presented to the Sentinels of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

The M17 Tomb of the Unknown Pistols are unique M17 pistols that were created using the same specifications for the U.S. Army’s M17 Modular Handgun System. The ceremonial pistols are 9mm striker-fired pistols with a non-railed aluminum grip module, stainless steel slide, wood grip inserts, a 21-round magazine, and features the same optic cut as specified by the MHS contract, front night sight, removable rear plate, and black controls. The pistols also feature a high polish to withstand the inclement weather while the Tomb Sentinels stand guard.

The unique distinguishing features for the M17 Tomb of the Unknown Pistols include:

Pistol Names: each of the four pistols bears the name of Silence, Respect, Dignity, or Perseverance and is featured on the dust cover. Dignity and Perseverance represent “The Sentinel’s Creed,” and Silence and Respect represent the request to the public by Arlington National Cemetery when visiting the Tomb of the Unknown, and during the Changing of the Guard;
Custom Wood Grips: in 1921 the chosen Unknown was transported to the United States of America aboard the USS Olympia. The custom wood grips are made with wood from the USS Olympia and include the crest of the 3rd Guard, Tomb of the Unknown Soldier identification badge inset;
Cocking Serrations: XXI cocking serrations are engraved on the slide to signify the twenty-one steps it takes for the Tomb Sentinels to walk by the Tomb of the Unknowns and the military honor of a 21 Gun Salute;
Sight Plate: an engraved impression of the Greek Figures featured on the east panel of the Tomb – Peace, Victory, and Valor – are featured on the sight plate;
Sights: a glass insert made with marble dust from the Tomb of the Unknown fills the sights of the ceremonial pistols;
Engraved Magazines: the 21-round magazines feature an aluminum base plate engraved with the names of the Greek figures featured on the Tomb of the Unknown – Peace, Victory, and Valor – and include a name plate on the bottom of the magazine engraved with the Tomb Sentinel badge number.
Serial Numbers: the pistols are serialized with a unique set of serial numbers that incorporate items of significance to the Old Guard: “LS” represents line six of the Sentinels’ Creed, “My standard will remain perfection; “02JUL37” to signify the first 24-hour guard posted at the Tomb of the Unknown on July 3, 1937; “21” to signify the 21 steps it takes the Tomb Sentinels to walk by the Tomb of the Unknown, and the military honor of a 21 Gun Salute. The full series of M17 Tomb of the Unknown Soldier Pistols serial numbers are LS02JUL37A21 (Silence), LS02JUL37B21 (Respect), LS02JUL37C21 (Dignity), LS02JUL37D21 (Perseverance).

*Photos courtesy of Sig Sauer

Photo of the day: Travel luggage perfection?

I’m a traveler, adventurist and part-time explorer. Well, at least that’s how I see myself. Whether traveling to foreign countries or domestically, having the proper luggage remains a key factor. Unfortunately, there is no “one-size-fits-all” luggage. Because of this, the storage area under my stairs is chalked full of various sized bags for different missions. Large gear duffels for SCUBA or ski trips. Bombproof rollers for medium range trips. And now the Deuter Transit 40 for those weekend getaways where you don’t require much gear at all. Or don’t want the hassle and expense of checking luggage.

Check out our full review of the Deuter Transit 40

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Photo of the day: Whisky and cigars, a staple in any man cave

Whisky and Cigars seem to be the favorite vices of nearly all savage gentlemen I’ve met. The smooth, smoky aroma of a good scotch matches perfectly with a carefully selected smoke. Shown above are Dalmore’s 12 year aged Scotch and a cigar that is well traveled. Having arrived in Florida by less-than-official means, they made their way to the west coast where I’ve happily savored them after a long day at the range.

Photo of the day: 5.11 AMP72 as an SBR backpack

Every company wants to make a splash during SHOT Show. 5.11 really knocked it out of the park this year, not only debuting some excellent looking new products, but also hosting a media event where we got to meet some of the product designers and hear their thought process on design features.

One such impressive product was the AMP line of backpacks. The largest, the AMP72, seen below also easily doubles as an SBR carrying case. With enough room to store a disassembled rifle (or pistol AR build), the AMP 72 provides a versatile pack with a less-than-tactical visual aesthetic.

Photo of the Day: Short, Sweet and Quiet

One of my favorite rifles to use at work and for play.

Maxim Defense CQB Stock on a Colt Lower with a Spikes Tactical Compressor Upper. Magpul magazines, back-up Iron Sights, and sling. Trijicon MRO and Phase 5 Extended Bolt Release.