The original SOG Bowie fixed blade that founded their company was based on a knife used by the Studies and Observations Group of the US Special Forces and other elite soldiers in the Vietnam War.
The SOG Bowie 2.0 has combined the traditional SOG Bowie with modern technology and materials. As a top-notch working fixed blade knife, it benefits from hard cased black TiNi coatings and AUS-8 steel. The SOG Bowie 2.0 has become a classic that is unparalleled in quality.
The sculpted cross guard, deep hollow grinds and precision detailing, and faceted tip are unmistakable signatures. SOG-S1T-L
Wow! How can it already be time for the February issue?
The start to 2026 is certainly proving to be an exciting one for airsofters everywhere, with shows and events back to back, and already some very cool new releases from some of the “big names” out there…
But time it is, and as the AA Crew prepare to head to Germany for IWA we’re pleased as always to launch ISSUE 183, and it’s another whopper!
To kick things off with new arrivals Bill drops his thoughts on the first GBBR from SECUTOR and Miguel tells us of his experiences with the new VAPOR shotgun from SPECNA ARMS!
The Cell take a look back at their favourite new pistol models from 2025, Boycie finishes up on “Project Stacatto” and then we launch into one of our most technical issues ever, with Dan taking us through an HPA Mk46 build courtesy of AMPED AIRSOFT in the USA, while Bruno looks at HPA kit from REDLINE.
Moving swiftly along Stewbacca brings in his finding on the 4UAD AR GBBR HOP UNIT, Bill and Marcus get into fitting the new PERUN FOR M14, Miguel brings us up to date with VICTOPTICS, and then we’re back to Bruno for a look at the LHODR JS NIGHTHAWK X2 before he and Sara check out new clothing from MTAC.
Rounding out ISSUE 183 we’re pleased to bring you two very special “Legion” reports, the first on a stunning Winter MilSim in Slovkia, and the second is our annual report from SHOT SHOW… and just like the show, the report is HUGE!
So, lots to get stuck into this month… we hope you enjoy it!
The UF PRO WINDSTOPPER Liner adds windproof and thermal protection to compatible UF PRO pants without changing how they fit or how you move. Zip in. Block wind. Stay effective.
the Angry Gun 6.5-inch U-RAC & M-RAC Style Suppressor Shield brings authentic design and premium materials to the airsoft market. Developed for players who value realism and durability, this suppressor shield closely reflects professional-grade concepts used in military and law enforcement environments.
Constructed from 6061-T6 aluminum and carbon fiber, the shield offers an excellent balance of strength, lightweight construction, and heat resistance. The 6.5-inch length makes it ideal for modern rifle setups, while the Cerakote FDE finish delivers a realistic appearance that integrates perfectly with contemporary tactical builds.
Designed for demanding milsim and skirmish use, the Angry Gun suppressor shield enhances both protection and visual authenticity without compromising handling or balance.
Availability: Coming after the Chinese New Year holiday. Get ready!
Lightweight chest rig for security and law enforcement personnel. With removable, high-visibility shoulder straps, transparent ID pocket, and various pockets for organizing equipment. The rig is highly adaptable and can also be used as a rig on a plate carrier when disassembled into its individual parts. In addition to the rig, the glove pouch can also be attached below the plate carrier.
Features:
Adjustable, flat padded straps
Removable, reflective strips in signal color on the shoulder strap
Large zippered compartment for organization and power bank with cable passage
•ttached front pocket with transparent compartment for ID cards (4.2 x 2.2 inches) and dividers
Detachable, washable padding
PFC/PFAS-free impregnation
Detachable additional pocket with tourniquet holder and space for handcuffs, disposable gloves, etc.
Velcro surface (fleece) for patches, etc.
Removable, size-adjustable pocket for digital radios (MOLLE reverse system)
Removable Velcro cable holders made of Tegris®
Rig adaptable for plate carriers (e.g., TT Plate Carrier QR LC ZP) (adapter not included)
Removable laser-cut MOLLE side wing, suitable for radio bag and pouches
Built to replicate as close as possible to the real steel counterpart, the receiver and handguard are fully licensed with authentic roll marks, engravings and markings. The aluminum handguard comes with M-LOK slots throughout for your favorite accessories like lights, lasers, PEQ boxes, grips and more!
Additionally it includes two quick detach sling points on each side of the handguard and an ambidextrous quick detach sling point on the stock, as well as an ambidextrous selector switch, magazine release, and bolt release perfect for left- and right-handed shooters.
From receiver to the tip of the handguard is an uninterrupted top Picatinny rail for optics and your other favorite accessories. Lastly, the rifle comes with a fully adjustable PDW stock and ergonomic rubberized pistol grip to improve mobility and handling.
Official launch of the VFC MD Series on February 10.
Two next-generation AEG powerhouses, evolved with the player in mind. With full licensing, precise replication, and integrated system design, VFC delivers the MD Series AEG—bringing greater practicality and real field value to every player.
Germany’s Kommando Spezialkräfte and the Federal Police’s GSG 9 put their training into action during a realistic joint access and intervention exercise.
Image Source: KSK
Precision, timing, and trust take center stage as communication, clearly defined roles, and structured decision-making processes interlock seamlessly. The exercise demonstrates how security is achieved through coordinated procedures, mutual understanding, and calm confidence under pressure.
Every step is deliberate. Every contact is controlled. Every tactical setup is designed to deliver clear objectives and safe, reliable outcomes.
The New, Ultra-Light, High-Performance Combat Helmet
FULDA, GERMANY (06.02.2026) – Mehler Protection is expanding its ballistic helmet portfolio with the Omega Core, an ultra-light combat helmet made from a high-performance UHMWPE composite, designed for modern tactical and military mission profiles.
The Omega Core combines an optimised UHMWPE composite core with a shell-integrated energy-dissipation system and an ergonomically designed interior. The result is an optimal weight-to-performance ratio that enhances mobility while reducing operational fatigue and neck strain. The helmet system will be showcased at Enforce Tac 2026 as part of Mehler Protection’s current helmet portfolio. Industry professionals, particularly those representing European armed forces, are warmly invited to visit the Mehler Systems Group stand to experience the combat helmet first-hand.
The Omega Core pairs a sophisticated ballistic construction with an open rail architecture and modular interfaces, e.g. for NVG mounts, visors, communications devices and hearing protection and more. The interior features multi-chamber pads and adaptive anchoring points to minimise micro-movements under dynamic loads, thereby improving stability, comfort, and fit. The individually adjustable suspension net provides continuous ventilation to reduce perspiration and heat build-up. The shell concept is engineered for low backface deformation and optimised fragment deflection. Thanks to its modular platform architecture, the helmet can be adapted to different mission profiles, ranging from highly mobile operations to scenarios involving variable threat environments.
“With the Omega Core we are setting the benchmark for ultra-light, fully integrable combat helmets. The system is ‘Made in Germany’, underpinned by a resilient European supply chain. Operators will benefit from a weight saving of around 20 per cent compared to the current Bundeswehr combat helmet, without compromising on protection, ergonomics or system integration,” says Dr. Mario Amschlinger, CEO of Mehler Systems.
The Omega Core is engineered as an ultra-light helmet system. It ranks at the very top of its class and delivers clear advantages in mobility and reduced fatigue during extended missions. The system is tested, among others, to the “Ballistic Helmet” system standard (Chapter 3.2, May 2010), STANAG 2920 (V50 procedure for fragment protection) and NIJ STD 0106.01. Ballistic tests with operationally relevant handgun ammunition (example calibres: 9 mm FMJ RN, .357 SIG FMJ FN, .44 Mag SJHP) are conducted to evaluate performance. These standards and additional procedures ensure that ballistic performance, impact attenuation and material durability meet the requirements expected by military users.
Production and delivery capability
Series production takes place at Mehler Protection’s dedicated facility in Fulda. The automated production line provides capacity for more than 50,000 state-of-the-art helmets per year. Mehler Protection has the organisational and technical capabilities to scale output to three times this volume at short notice upon receipt of orders. This ensures armed forces’ requirements can be met quickly and reliably. The production strategy is based on rapid scalability, a dual-sourcing approach for critical components and qualified supplier networks across Europe. Mehler Protection has demonstrated on-time delivery, high quality standards and supply chain resilience in major body armour programmes.
Innovation leadership
The Mehler Systems Group was awarded the TOP 100 seal in 2026, placing it among Germany’s most innovative mid-sized companies. This recognition highlights the Group’s consistent research and development efforts and the innovation behind products such as Omega Core, as well as numerous other solutions in the fields of personal and platform protection, load-bearing systems, and tactical clothing.
About Mehler Protection
Mehler Protection is a leading provider of high-quality ballistic protection systems for law enforcement agencies, military, and special forces. The company is committed to safety, providing innovative and robust solutions that are tailored to mission-specific requirements. Its portfolio includes ballistic body armour, stab and cut protection, helmets, shields, and platform armour for naval, air, and land vehicles, as well as critical infrastructure. As part of the Mehler Systems Group, Mehler Protection draws on over four decades of experience in developing and manufacturing customised protection solutions.
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