BOLO [Reward]: Stolen Plate Carrier, Ammo, FAKs (Houston)

Today I present a request (and cautionary tale) to the internets on behalf of a friend.  For those of you in the Houston area please Be On the Look Out (BOLO) for a plate carrier and kit that was stolen from my buddy’s car about two weeks ago on April 23rd, 2013.  [He only recently told me.]  I realize that the recovery of it an extreme long shot but I wanted to do something to help and maybe something positive will come of it.

Here’s the list of gear taken:

• Tactical Assault Gear Banshee rifle plate carrier (Multicam)
• RMA Supply Level III ceramic armor plate (large; 10” x 12”)
• Condor Triple Kangaroo mag shingle (Multicam)
• (6) Magpul Maglevel P-mags (FDE) each with Original Magpul (FDE)
• (3) Glock-brand G19 15 rd magazines

Ammo:

• 180 rounds of 5.56x45mm Federal 62 gr Green Tip Penetrator (loaded in P-mags; 6 x 30)
• (10) 20 boxes of 5.56x45mm Federal American Eagle
• (3) 50 rd boxes of Winchester ‘white box’ .45 ACP
• (5) 20 rd boxes of Remington .22-250
• (3) 50 rd boxes of CCI Blazer 9mm

Medical:

• (1) Chinook Medic Kit (TMK-KE) Multicam – completely stocked
• (1) Chinook Individual Operator Kit (TMK-IO) Multicam – completely stocked
• Additional Celox gauze, packs and injector

All of this was in his car but not visible from the outside; the car was parked on the street near his residence in the Midtown/Museum District of Houston, Texas.  The items were actually in a cardboard box with clothes piled on top of it.  There were no overt signs of forced entry (no broken windows) and the car was locked prior to the theft.  The police believe specialized tools (slim jim?) were used to gain entry.  The car is not a luxury model, it does not have any expensive mods or options and is as mundane as any other.  It does did have a single sticker on the back, though.  A basic NRA membership sticker.

The thieves realizing their windfall, returned about 1 week later and gained entry to his wife’s car hoping for another score.

Hindsight being what it is, the take-away of this tale is to Respect the Gray.

1. Don’t Advertise – even a small identifier such as a sticker can mark you for theft or attack.
2. Secure your kit – concealment is not enough; car locks are not secure.

I’ve been thinking of ways to secure gear in a car and if you choose to store it there, my recommendation would be a Pelican or similar rugged case to contain the gear.  Preferable the case should be in the trunk (if your car has one) locked with Abloy padlocks and tethered with hardened steel security chain to an anchor attached to the frame.  Some vehicles with removable seats have convenient anchors already.

I can’t offer much but I am personally offering a reward of (2) bricks [1000 rounds] of precious .22 long rifle ammunition* for information leading to the return of the above items; If you can help please send an email to Projectilist AT Gmail

Thank you.

(*and the satisfaction and peace of mind of having helped your fellow man)

Blatant Logos on Gun Parts: Not my fave

After competing in several shooting sports over the last twenty years, I’ve come to look at most factory original guns as ‘preassembled kits’  [carry guns, not always withstanding].   I’m no stranger to ‘modding’ guns: Trigger and action work, ergonomic improvements, better sights, etc. all are useful upgrades.  The staggering selection of aftermarket parts we have today is a wonderful thing.  With the increase in popularity of modular firearms such as the 10/22 and AR-15 platform [the Mr. Potato Head Firearms] the selection of parts continues to grow.

I understand that branding is an important marketing tool that builds recognition for a company.  A company’s recognition should be based on performance, innovation, value and service.  Companies that excel in those areas benefit from unique labeling in that the brand becomes associated with the label.  However, I don’t care for blatant logos or labeling visible on the exterior of guns or gun parts.   No matter how good the product.

Examples of quality products that I am less likely to purchase because of blatant labeling:  Bravo Company Bolt Carrier, R&R Target Mag Well & Forend

I realize that product labeling does help, and even protect, the consumer by identifying the manufacturer of the parts purchased.  However, I am not being paid by these companies so if I choose to equip a firearm with their parts it won’t be to advertise for them.  I don’t mind if  a useful product has laser engraving down its entire length if it’s hidden from exterior view, such as on the the excellent Gunfighter Charging Handle.  My focus is more towards function than fashion.  If I can find another product of equal quality and function I’ll choose the one without the billboard on it.

There are many good car / firearm analogies – the applicable one here would be the Stunner versus Sleeper mindsets.  Stunners are to something to look at and may have performance to back up the looks.  Sleepers keep people guessing until the owner chooses to demonstrate its capabilities.  So, are you the type that wants people to know what parts are in and on your ‘ride’ or  are do you prefer the ‘Greyman’ approach?

 

 

Better than a “Shoot Me First” Vest: NRA’s Tactical Vest T-Shirt

I found this at the NRA Store today:

NRA Tactical Vest T-shirt

Can be purchased here

What I really find enlightening is the product description (my emphasis added):

Inspired by the popular MOLLE (MOdular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment) vests employed by military and law enforcement today, the NRA Tactical Vest T-Shirt’s authentic look features much of the same tactical gear as special operators. Such tools-of-the-trade displayed on the design include a semi-auto pistol, magazines, flashlights and carabiners. It looks so real it’s sure the catch the eye of military and law enforcement enthusiasts, as well as 2nd Amendment activists. The black, 6.1 oz. 100% cotton fabric will look and feel great for years to come. The NRA Tactical logo is displayed on the left chest and rear neck.

Yep.  It, might garner some attention alright.  Not exactly the thing to wear if going for the whole ‘gray man’ thing.

Additional thought: How long before some kid gets kicked out of school for wearing this one?