Choosing the right optic isn’t about hype — it’s about mission, environment, and how you run your setup.
In this video, EOTECH breaks down exactly how to select the right HWS for your needs, whether you’re focused on speed, precision, or versatility. Clear explanations, real-world use cases, and practical guidance help cut through the noise and point you toward the optic that actually fits your application.
Hit the play button, get informed, and make a confident choice before your next build or deployment.
It’s the last 15th of the month for 2025, and as you’ll see from the front cover this month it’s our now-traditional “snow scene” to set us up for all the airsoft joys of the season, and once again our thanks to old friend and “AA Legionnaire” Bjorn for helping us set the tone of the holiday spirit!
But in many ways it’s “airsoft biz as usual” as we bring you another issue that’s full to the brim with airsoft-goodness as Bill lands his evaluation of the new BOLT MAS GBBR platforms, Stewbacca delves deep into the ever-expanding range of ARES wheelguns (with a little help from Clarence Lai), Miguel looks at a deadly combo from ARCTURUS and SPECNA ARMS, and Boycie moves on with “PROJECT STACATTO”!
And although the RED CELL testing program is now complete, the band are back together to look in-depth at their most-used platforms, both AEG and GBB, of 2025 in an all-new AA CELL article!
Marines with the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit take part in attack drone training on Camp Santiago, Puerto Rico. 2nd Marine Division and the Marine Corps Attack Drone Team are training and certifying 22nd MEU Marines on the Neros Archer first-person view drone system, demonstrating the 22nd MEU’s commitment to innovation, adaptability, and enhanced combat readiness.
Video: (U.S. Marine Corps video by Sgt. Maurion Moore)
Water resistant. Thermal Regulation. Designed to move.
Engineered to layer seamlessly with our MALOU (Maritime Amphibious Littoral Operations Uniform) system, the Harry Combat Softshell provides weather resistance, mobility, and comfort in a cut that performs under weight.
Breathable, stretch-woven protection that works in stride with your kit, not against it.
Generous zippered upper arm and zippered front mounted pockets also make the Harry Combat Softshell Jacket particularly well suited to general wear duty. The front mounted pockets are designed specifically to lay flat under any chest mounted equipment, to reduce rubbing.
When every shot counts, the M4 Sling Kit provides stability while the quick adjuster helps tighten your sling to stabilize your aim, your shot.
An upgrade to the standard issue M4 to add a QD Sling: the Army Sling Kit, featuring the Bravo Stock, Rail Mounted Push Button Socket, and Vickers Combat Applications Sling (VCAS) with Push Buttons. This comprehensive kit enhances stability, precision, and versatility, ensuring superior performance in the field. With robust components designed for optimal functionality and easy installation, the Army Sling Kit is the ultimate solution for adding a high-quality sling to your M4.
the Striker TT BDU is built for peak performance in hot and humid environments. UF PROs lightest and most breathable uniform, with advanced fabrics that keep you cool, dry, and focused during intense activity.
The EXP™ VENTURE PACK is designed to support streamlined travel—organizing clothing and equipment through a large main opening with an integrated garment sleeve for suits or uniforms, plus a dedicated shoe compartment that separates footwear or dirty clothing from the interior.
Storable, reinforced pack straps and a removable shoulder strap provide flexible carry options, and a durable 1,000D Cordura® exterior with an abrasion-resistant bottom protects the load in transit.
Theon International Plc (THEON) is pleased to announce the signing of a Contract Revision between OCCAR and THEON/Hensoldt consortium, for the supply of additional 100,000 Night Vision Goggles (NVGs) to the German Bundeswehr and 4,000 NVGs to the Belgian Armed Forces, the latter converted into firm order from existing options.
The Contract Revision, including the Facility of Services valued at c. €100 million as a gradual implementation option, has a total value of approximately €1 billion and represents the largest single procurement of NVGs in the history of a European NATO member.
The Contract builds on previous orders through OCCAR of 66,000 NVGs for the German Bundeswehr and 8,000 for the Belgian Armed Forces, the majority of which have already been delivered. With this latest order, the total number of devices under the contract, including options, reaches c.200,000. THEON remains the largest supplier of Night Vision equipment in Europe, now having secured significant backlog visibility over the next 4 years until 2029.
“This Contract Revision represents the largest single procurement of NVGs in the history of a European NATO member, if not the largest ever placed globally. The anticipated acceleration in order intake has already translated into long-term framework agreements announced in recent weeks. In anticipation of this, that is why we moved early to secure the image intensifier tube (IIT) supply chain through investing in Harder Digital and Exosens, in a market where global supply remains structurally below demand. We see accelerating demand as customers seek to equip increasing numbers of soldiers with night-vision capabilities and weapon-mounted systems. On top of the already announced orders in Europe, recent newsflow about APAC defense-spending increases confirms our outlook.
Notably, order intake this year currently stands at more than 3x expected 2025 revenue, versus our guidance of c. 2x, rising to over 4x if including the attached new options. Once the announced Share Capital Increase concludes and regulatory constraints are lifted, we will be in a position to provide EBIT guidance for 2025 and 2026.”
Christian Hadjiminas, Founder and CEO of THEON
In line with the original contract and the previous amendments, this Contract requires deliveries of the Mikron binocular, powered by Exosens 16 mm tubes. THEON has recently secured the supply of more than 400,000 Image Intensifier Tubes (IIT) through the latest extension of its Long-Term Commercial Agreement (LTCA) with Exosens to the end of 2030 (as announced on 3 December 2025). The LTCA more than allows Theon to fulfil all its existing requirements, with capacity to fulfill further new orders. Consistent with THEON’s continuous local fulfillment strategy followed in previous orders, part of the assembly will take place in Germany, at the joint company Hensoldt Theon NightVision (HTN) facility, in Wetzlar, Hesse.
“We are pleased to remain a reliable partner in equipping the German Bundeswehr. Night Vision devices are not a luxury; they are essential on today’s battlefield, as recent conflicts have clearly demonstrated. With this trend evident in Europe and increasingly visible across the APAC region, THEON expects to continue growing faster than the market in the man portable segment. Our strategy focuses on cementing our position in Night Vision and expanding our addressable market, introducing new adjacent products for the soldiers.”
When it comes to rope operations, abseiling, fast roping, or tactical missions, your gloves aren’t just protection — they’re part of your lifeline. The KinetiXx X-ROAR Tactical Abseiling Glove are built for professionals who demand maximum grip, comfort, and durability every time they go over the edge.
Crafted from high-quality goatskin leather, the X-ROAR delivers exceptional rope control and a snug, natural fit. The ergonomic hand-shaped cut enhances dexterity and gives you total control — even under high load and extreme strain.
FACTS
Abrasion resistant palm reinforcement made with goatskin
Light padding, adapted to work with thin rope
Leather reinforcement on crook of thumbs, fingertips, knuckles and 1st finger limb
Eyelet for attachment to a carabiner
Touchscreen compatible
If your job depends on your hands, your gloves should be just as serious.
Got your interest? Use code: ASXxMN20 for an 20% discount provided from us at AMNB!!
WWII 80-Year Anniversary 2025 marks the 80-Year anniversary of V-J day in 1945.
It was QILOs prerogative to do a special USMC M1942 Frogskin drop with their friends at WRMFZY to commemorate this event.
Some new, exciting pieces are on the menu, as well as the restock (preorders) of some classics:
“Lhotse” Goose Down Puffer in Frogskin Beach
Driftwood Pant in Frogskin Jungle
Gen. I Sherp in Frogskin Beach (PREORDER)
Gen. I Sherp in Frogskin Jungle (PREORDER)
Puffer season is back indeed.
The “Lhotse” goose-down puffer in Frogskin Beach represents the perfect union between historical reference and streetwear heritage.
Technical details at the blog.
The Sherp that made it into a videogame…aka the “Tarkov Special”
“Escape from Tarkov” is a popular game in the community, and we were stoked to see that they put our Gen. I Frogskin Sherp into the game.
In fact, LVNDMARK (the largest Tarkov streamer) rocks this sherp in-game.
THIS IS A PREORDER (lead time 4-5 months) THIS IS A PREORDER (lead time 4-5 months) THIS IS A PREORDER (lead time 4-5 months)
Yes, we know that’s a long time. Cut-and-sew takes time – it’s why we rarely run them. DO NOT checkout with a mixed cart containing PREORDER items & in-stock items (everything else).
Preorder Runs for 1 week (Friday 12/12 at 3PM EST to Thursday 12/18 at 11:59 EST)
The follow-up to this year’s frogskin beach Driftwood pant colorway.
Constructed of ripstop stretch material, the pant is lightweight, comfy, and dries fast after getting wet. The perfect pants for training, climbing, jumping, or just hitting the local bar.
33” inseam, intended to be worn cuffed on shorter legs. If you’re on the cusp, order a size up.
DRIFTWOOD PANT KEY FEATURES
Elastic Waistband with Belt Loops
Zippered front thigh pocket and back pocket
Zippered fly with upgraded YKK metal zippers
Riveted metal button waist closure with embossed collab logo
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