The Importance of Being Frugal: The Packaging Edition

How many times have you ordered something absolutely miniscule from, say, Amazon—and it arrives in a huge, unnecessary box? Just last week, I ordered a micro SD card for my digital camera (yes, I still use one of those LOL). The box it showed up in was comparatively enormous. Nearly the size of a shoebox. For something that’s literally smaller than my thumbnail? Yes, companies like Amazon are getting better about this and now often ship smaller, more durable products in bubble-padded envelopes. Why? Because frugal packaging benefits everybody.

I don’t need to tell you about wasteful packaging in the firearm industry. Sometimes the box is almost more impressive than the product itself. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve unboxed one of my own firearm accessory purchases and thought: “How much did just this box cost? And all the various layers of laser-cut foam? How much extra in shipping did this cost me due to the increased shipping size? Seriously, how much am I into this silly box alone? I almost can’t bring myself to throw this thing in the trash.” Cue hoarder memes.

Whether we like to think about it or not, who ultimately pays for all the designing, manufacturing, printing, and labeling of the fancy packaging–and the additional shipping costs? The consumer does. And what do you do with that fancy little box you may have just inadvertently paid five dollars for? Discard it immediately? Or squirrel it away with all of your sundry smartphone and tablet boxes for the next 40 years—until you or someone else decides to finally get rid of it?

Shockwave does things differently. As you can tell from our retail prices, we believe in providing top-quality products all while keeping costs down. We accomplish this through myriad ways—in-house design, material selection, bulk purchasing agreements with vendors, frugal packaging, and more. But frugal packaging is perhaps one of the more obvious to our customers. Our products are made of high-strength polymer and don’t require over-the-top, wasteful packaging. Many times, we can package and ship our accessories in little more than a branded poly bag. As this costs us less to package and ship, we pass those savings directly onto you. What’s more, I don’t believe any of our customers are ever conflicted about whether or not to toss an opened poly bag.

Win-win.

Also, though we may not want to admit it to the liberals, we all live on planet Earth. And it’s our providence to take care of it for our children and our children’s children. I mean, isn’t Taylor Swift and her private jet doing enough damage on their own? LOL

Pistol Stabilizers are BACK! | Federal Judge Blocks Nationwide Enforcement of the Pistol Brace Rule

Last Wednesday, Judge Matthew Kacsmaryk of the United States District Court in the Northern District of Texas granted injunction relief (an injunction) to prevent the ATF from enforcing the ATF’s Factoring Criteria for Firearms with Attached Stabilizing Braces rule-nationwide. What does this mean? In short, as far as pistol braces go, we’re back to 2021.

To obtain this injunction, the plaintiffs needed to satisfy four rules:

  1. They must be likely to prevail on the merits.
  2. They would suffer irreparable harm if denied.
  3. The injury outweighs any harm that would be caused if the injunction is granted.
  4. The public interest supports relief.

Judge Kacsmaryk also noted that the rule would cause horrendous strain on companies who produce stabilizing braces. “Additionally, ATF admits the 10-year cost of the Rule is over one billion dollars,” he wrote. “And because of the Rule, certain manufacturers that obtain most of their sales from stabilizing braces risk having to close their doors for good.” Here at Shockwave, we are very thankful for all the support our customers and 2nd amendment organizations have provided to help keep the fight going. We wouldn’t still be here without you.

In the ruling Judge Kacsmaryk stated,“[T]he Court is certainly sympathetic to ATF’s concerns over public safety in the wake of tragic mass shootings. The Rule ’embodies salutary policy goals meant to protect vulnerable people in our society,’” Judge Kacsmaryk wrote in Britto v. ATF. “But public safety concerns must be addressed in ways that are lawful. This Rule is not.”

There are two main items he noted in his ruling for injunctive relief:

  1. The ATF did not follow the Administrative Procedures Act (APA).  

He wrote, ‘[t]he controlling law of this case is that the Government Defendants’ promulgation of the Final Rule ‘fails the logical-outgrowth test and violates the APA’ and ‘therefore must be set aside as unlawful’ under the APA,’”

  • The ATF is violating the 2nd Amendment.

He added,“Absent injunctive relief, the Final Rule will impair and threaten to deprive them of their fundamental right to keep and bear commonly used arms as a means of achieving the inherently lawful ends of self-defense. See U.S. CONST. AMEND. II (providing that the ‘right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed.’).”

Here at Shockwave we worked tirelessly with U.S. Congressman Bilirakis, U.S. Congresswoman Anna Paulina Luna, and U.S. Senator Rick Scott to help overturn this rule through the power of the vote. While it won in the House, it did fail in the Senate.  So, it was back to the courts to help stop this overreach. Throughout the recent months there have been many injunctions set in place for Gun Owners of America, Second Amendment Foundation, FPC, and more. However, in order to be protected you would have needed to be named plaintiff or a member of one of these originations. With this new nationwide injunction from Judge Kasmaryk, that is no longer the case. All Americans are protected.

 

We are very thankful for all the hard work these 2nd amendment organizations do to help support companies like us and law abiding citizens who enjoy their 2nd amendment rights. So where do we go from here? Most certainly the Justice Department will appeal this ruling to the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals. The consensus among the legal community is that they will support the injunction relief and issue a permanent injunction in the coming months. As to the various lawsuits themselves? These will be a long endeavor and will likely take years to work through the legal system. Eventually, the U.S. Supreme Court will probably hear them. In the meantime, Americans will be protected by the injunctions.

Shockwave offers four different pistol stabilizers.

Pistol stabilizers improve the shooter’s safety and accuracy as the AR pistol is stabilized on their forearm for support.

Blade Stealth

Blade Classic

Blade 2M

Blade Pistol Stabilizer 

Take Me Home, Country Roads…

After seven years of sun and fun—and a whole lot of hard work—it was time to head on back to where it all started: home. Back to Utah.

Sure, we’ll miss the oppressive heat and humidity, alligators crawling across the Publix parking lot, sinkholes swallowing up entire neighborhoods, the hurricanes, the tropical storms, the tornadoes, being eaten alive by mosquitoes and noseeums, and arguably America’s worst drivers. LOL

But seriously, we’ll miss being able to eat a Pub Sub, killer sunsets over the Gulf, spotting manatees in Crystal River, fishing Honeymoon Island, exploring the sandy beaches for shells, enjoying rich cultural experiences in most every city we visited, and wondering why there are so many chickens just walking around Key West.

Family obligations necessitated a return, so we moved Shockwave this August. And honestly, it feels so good to be home. Clean air, mountains all around, the changing seasons. We missed it all.

As they say, it’s good to be home.

Gun Range Etiquette: Tips for a Better Outing at an Indoor Range with Your AR-15

When it comes to indoor shooting range etiquette, some things are black-and-white — while others are a bit gray. Here’s one example: 

Should you shoot your short-barreled AR-15 at an indoor range?

Short answer: 

Yes, but we recommend adding a Flash Forward™ muzzle device (aka Not a Silencer™) if you want to be considerate of those around you! 

Longer answer:

The newest Shockwave™ Technologies Flash Forward™ muzzle devices are specifically designed to redirect the expanding gasses at the muzzle of your firearm away from you and toward the target. 

Adding a Flash Forward™ muzzle device will not only help protect your hearing, but it will also reduce the noise your neighbors at the range are subjected to. Legally. Remember, a short barrel doesn’t have time to burn all the powder in most 5.56mm cartridges. Meaning, much of that powder gets burned in front of the muzzle, which can make short-barreled ARs unpleasant for everyone concerned.

You can also add one of these bad boys without a $200 NFA tax stamp. Because they are Not a Silencer™.

At Shockwave Technologies, we offer this must-have product for four different types of calibers. The first product is for the .22lr-caliber Ruger 10/22 rifle, and the other three products are for AR-15 firearms in .30 Caliber/.300 Blackout, 5.56mm, and 9mm calibers. 

 

Introducing: 4 Different Shockwave Flash Forwards™

shockwave flash forward

In testing, we have seen the peak decibel reading at the shooter’s ear reduced by an average of the following decibels (db):

  • Shockwave Flash Forward™ MK1 MOD 0: 5.3 db

    This hard-anodized, 6061-T6 aluminum “can” mounts directly to your factory unthreaded muzzle. No need for adapters. For a semi-permanent installation, be sure to use the included roll pin.

 

  • Flash Forward™ MK 1 MOD 1: 9.8 db

    This hard-anodized, 6061-T6 aluminum “can” mounts directly to your 5/8”-24 threaded muzzle. No need for shims or crush washers. For a semi-permanent installation, a bit of blue thread-locking compound works well.

 

  • Flash Forward™ MK 1 MOD 2: 10.1 db

    This hard-anodized, 6061-T6 aluminum “can” mounts directly to your ½”-28 threaded muzzle. No need for shims or crush washers, though you can still use them if you wish. For a semi-permanent installation, a bit of blue thread-locking compound works well.

 

  • Flash Forward™ MK 1 MOD 3: 9.4 db

    This hard-anodized, 6061-T6 aluminum “can” mounts directly to your ½”-36 threaded muzzle. No need for shims or crush washers, though you can still use them if you wish. For a semi-permanent installation, a bit of blue thread-locking compound works well.

    As the decibel is logarithmic, this is a very noticeable difference.

    However, because the overall sound level isn’t affected — just redirected — the Flash Forward isn’t considered an NFA item. It’s classified as a simple “threaded muzzle device.”

    Please note that OSHA’s “hearing safe” threshold is 140 dB. The Flash Forward is not an approved hearing-safe suppressor. Please always wear hearing protection, such as OSHA-approved ear plugs, earbuds, or over-the-ear earmuffs.

 

Our Testing Methodology

  • For the Shockwave Flash Forward™ MK1 MOD 0, Larson Davis SoundTrack LxT decibel meter microphone placed 0.15 meters left of the left ear. Muzzle, ear, and microphone all located 1.6 meters above ground. 10 shots were fired outdoors—and an average calculated. Ammo: Aguila .22lr Sniper Subsonic 60-grain ammo. Temperature: 72 degrees, sunny. Barometric pressure: 29.98 inches. Average wind speed: 2 mph. Altitude: 342 feet ASL. Humidity: 65 percent.

  • For the Flash Forward™ MK 1 MOD 1, Larson Davis SoundTrack LxT decibel meter microphone placed 0.15 meters left of the left ear. Muzzle, ear, and microphone all located 1.6 meters above ground. 10 shots were fired outdoors—and an average calculated. Ammo: Hornady 190-Grain Sub-X 300 Blackout. Temperature: 72 degrees, sunny. Barometric pressure: 29.99 inches. Average wind speed: 1 mph. Altitude: 342 feet ASL. Humidity: 65 percent.

  • For the Flash Forward™ MK 1 MOD 2, Larson Davis SoundTrack LxT decibel meter microphone placed 0.15 meters left of the left ear. Muzzle, ear, and microphone all located 1.6 meters above ground. 10 shots were fired outdoors—and an average calculated. Ammo: Winchester 5.56 NATO 55gr FMJ. Temperature: 72 degrees, sunny. Barometric pressure: 29.98 inches. Average wind speed: 2 mph. Altitude: 342 feet ASL. Humidity: 65 percent.

  • For the Flash Forward™ MK 1 MOD 3, Larson Davis SoundTrack LxT decibel meter microphone placed 0.15 meters left of the left ear. Muzzle, ear, and microphone all located 1.6 meters above ground. 10 shots were fired outdoors—and an average calculated. Ammo: Fiocchi 9mm 158-grain Subsonic Ammo. Temperature: 72 degrees, sunny. Barometric pressure: 29.98 inches. Average wind speed: 1 mph. Altitude: 342 feet ASL. Humidity: 65 percent.

 

What About Permanent Installation?

Another option is to extend your pistol barrel to rifle length with a permanent installation. You can do this ATF-approved modification and easily convert your pistol to a rifle. 

flash forward installation

In most cases, it’s a better solution than buying a new longer barrel to convert it, as you also get the sound-mitigation benefits.

  • For the Flash Forward™ MK 1 MOD 1, we will offer an easy-to-use silver soldering kit. The silver solder we will offer has a melting point of 1,145 degrees. (ATF’s requirement is 1,100 degrees or more.) Contrary to what you may have heard, permanently attaching a muzzle device with silver solder really isn’t any more difficult than sweating copper tubing when doing plumbing. Given an overall length of 9.00” and assuming a threading interface of 0.625”, the Flash Forward lengthens your barrel by 8.375”. The 1.50” outer diameter fits under many popular handguards.


  • For the Flash Forward™ MK 1 MOD 3, we will offer an easy-to-use silver soldering kit. The silver solder we will offer has a melting point of 1,145 degrees. (ATF’s requirement is 1,100 degrees or more.) Contrary to what you may have heard, permanently attaching a muzzle device with silver solder really isn’t any more difficult than sweating copper tubing when doing plumbing. Given an overall length of 9.00” and assuming a threading interface of 0.625”, the Flash Forward lengthens your barrel by 8.375”. The 1.50” outer diameter fits under many popular handguards.


  • For the Flash Forward™ MK 1 MOD 2, we will offer an easy-to-use silver soldering kit. The silver solder we will offer has a melting point of 1,145 degrees. (ATF’s requirement is 1,100 degrees or more.) Contrary to what you may have heard, permanently attaching a muzzle device with silver solder really isn’t any more difficult than sweating copper tubing when doing plumbing. Given an overall length of 9.00” and assuming a standard threading interface of 0.625”, the Flash Forward lengthens your barrel by 8.375”. The 1.50” outer diameter fits under many popular handguards.


  • For the Shockwave Flash Forward™ MK1 MOD 0, given an overall length of 5.25” and an interface of 1.125”, the Flash Forward lengthens your barrel by 4.125”. The 1.00” outer diameter fits under many popular handguards.



View all four Flash Forwards products now available. Remember, they are Not a Silencer™.

Shockwave Blade Classic and Blade Stealth Now Available in All Colors

The Shockwave Blade Stealth and Shockwave Blade Classic now come in all available colors — Black, FDE, OD Green, and Gray. 

These four colors of the Shockwave Blade are Made in America and allow you to customize your firearm to fit your personal style. 

 

Learn more about each Shockwave Blade® below:

 

Blade® Classic

shockwave blade classic

The veteran-designed Shockwave Blade® Classic pistol stabilizer is slightly smaller than the traditional Shockwave Blade®. 



Blade® Stealth

shockwave blade stealth

The Shockwave Blade® Stealth pistol stabilizer has a slick look and slightly smaller profile, making it an extremely comfortable brace for any user.

 

Shockwave Blade® Classic and Shockwave Blade® Stealth features include:

  • Available in Black, FDE, OD Green, and Gray
  • Side quick disconnect for sling attachment on either side
  • Quick and easy to install. Just slip it on and it locks in place.
  • Provides additional support during firing.
  • Weighs a scant 4.0 ounces.
  • Manufactured to exacting tolerances
  • Adjustable with a simple pull mechanism
  • Fits all pistols equipped with a Mil-spec buffer tube: AR-15 pattern, MPX, Glock, CZ Scorpion Evo 3, HK9X pattern, etc. 
  • Made from high-strength glass-reinforced polymer with a QD swivel cup (QD swivel not included). 

 

With the simple, vertical pull mechanism on the bottom of the Blade, you’ll be able to adjust it to different lengths and gain more support, giving you a boost in your marksmanship game and more all-around comfort with each shot.  

 

Ultimately, both of the affordable Blade Classic and Blade Stealth pistol stabilizers remain lightweight, durable and thin with its robust design.

How to Build an AR-15 & What You Need to Know

Disclaimer: This blog is for educational purposes only and not intended to provide legal advice. You are responsible for your own actions, and we advise you to seek guidance from a legal professional in your area before building a custom AR-15 pistol.

 

Should you be afraid to build your own AR pistol?

 

Lions, tigers, and custom-built AR pistols. Oh my!

 

As a law-abiding citizen, we understand that building your own AR pistol can feel like walking on eggshells. It’s one thing to learn how to safely make a firearm that will work great for your needs—and quite another when it comes to building it according to all the convoluted rules in place. 

 

Have no fear. We will walk you through the steps of what you need to get started.

 

What you need to know before building an AR-15 pistol

 

The fears behind building a custom AR-15 pistol are not primarily focused on preventing yourself from getting caught in the act of using an illegally configured firearm at the range—but more about protecting yourself in case you ever need to use it in a personal defense situation, where your firearm can be seized and used as evidence against you in court. 


For rest assurance (and to remain the law-abiding citizen we know you are), building a firearm legally is truly a “cover your ass” action that calls for getting it done right the first time. It’s not worth cutting corners that could cost you a whole lot of issues in unexpected circumstances. 

 

Before we get into the nitty gritty, let’s cover our bases.

 

The first thing you want to do is familiarize yourself with both your local and state gun regulations, or contact your local FFL dealer for guidance. They can help answer questions and provide suggestions as well.

 

Now let’s define what a pistol is on a federal level.

 

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) defines a pistol as “a weapon originally designed, made and intended to fire a projectile from one or more barrels when held in one hand and having: a chamber as an integral part of, or permanently aligned with, the bore; and a short stock designed to be gripped by one hand and at an angle to and extending below the line of the bore.”

 

While an AR-15 pistol has a similar makeup as an AR-15 rifle, there are a few differences that classify it a “pistol”: 

  • The barrel is typically shorter than 16 inches (and overall length is shorter than 26 inches).
  • You can’t put a vertical forend grip on it (angled grips are okay).
  • You can optionally have a pistol brace on your firearm.
  • It cannot have a stock.

 

Also, the NFA (National Firearms Act) doesn’t regulate pistol barrel length. So as long as it doesn’t have a stock, which would classify it as a rifle, you should be good to go without having to deal with the tax stamps, paperwork, and other rules from the NFA.



How to build an AR-15 pistol

how to build an ar-15 pistol

Now let’s get to the good stuff: building a custom AR-15 pistol. 

 

The benefit of building an AR-15 pistol is that you get exactly what you want–sometimes at a fraction of the cost. As long as you have the time on your hands, it can be a great alternative to buying one from a firearms dealer. 

 

First things first, you need to define your budget and what you want from your firearm.

 

Now it’s time to get a lower and upper receiver from your FFL. Ensure the 4473 form is marked “Other receiver, other firearm and receiver (not rifle).” You must know how the lower receiver part was purchased. If it was originally built as a rifle, it can’t be built into a pistol without getting a tax stamp and registering it with the ATF. But if you bought a stripped lower receiver and built it into a pistol from scratch (and it’s not designated as a rifle on the 4473 form), you’re gravy.

 

Here are some other items you’ll need:



  • Handguard
    • A handguard (also known as a forend or forearm) is a shroud that covers the barrel, preventing accidental burns and allowing a second surface for gripping the firearm. There are free-floating and drop-in handguards available based on your needs.



  • Bolt Carrier Group (BCG)
    • This is something you don’t want to go cheap on. It’s the part of the rifle or pistol that allows for safe semi-automatic action.


  • Barrel
    • You need to determine which caliber you want: .223/5.56mm, .300 Blackout, 9mm, .45 ACP, etc.
    • You will want to ensure the barrel’s gas port is in the desired location: carbine or rifle. Carbine-length gas systems are the de facto standard for most pistol builds these days.
    • An AR-15 pistol also usually has a barrel shorter than 16” (the minimum legal length for a rifle barrel).



  • Trigger
    • You can stick with a standard mil-spec trigger or consider an aftermarket trigger. The sky’s the limit when it comes to function and features of the myriad aftermarket triggers.





  • Pistol buffer
    • A pistol buffer is another piece designed to help make your AR semi automatic. Example of an AR-15 carbine buffer:



  • Buffer spring
  • Castle nut
    • A castle nut (or buffer tube nut) screws into the buffer tube and keeps the buffer tube/receiver extension and lower receiver end plate secured. Example of an AR-15 castle nut:
  • Endplate
    • An endplate is designed for an AR-15 with a carbine buffer tube, aligning the buffer tube with the lower receiver. Example of an AR-15 endplate:



 

Other add-ons we suggest:



  • Optics
    • We could write an entire book on optics and sights. Suffice it to say, do some independent research, ask others, and try out different options for yourself. First and foremost, you will need to determine whether open sights, a red-dot-type, a telescopic optic—or a combination thereof is what you’re looking for.



  • Flashlight for home defense
    • A flashlight mounted to your firearm will help you see where you’re going during the night and see your target, but a bright light can also stun your intruder, making it difficult for them to see you. 

14 Gun Accessories to Add to Your Wish List

The Holiday Season has sneaked up on us all once again. But finding the perfect items to give your gun-loving family (or yourself) can be a difficult endeavor with the national shortage on firearm supplies due to high demand. 

 

Have no fear. 

 

Because Shockwave Technologies’ gun accessories are Made in America, we’ve been able to quickly fill the gaps for dealers and buyers who want to stock up on the best firearm supplies.

 

And that includes items to add to your Christmas wish list, too.  

 

If you’re looking for some awesome stocking stuffers or Christmas wish list ideas, check out these badass gun accessories for the gifts that keep on giving the whole year round:

 

 

Shockwave Blade®

 

Blade® Pistol Stabilizer 

Made from high-strength glass-reinforced polymer, the Blade pistol stabilizer is manufactured to exacting tolerances and fits all pistols equipped with a standard AR-15 pistol buffer tube (up to 1.25” in diameter) such as the Shockwave KAK Pistol Buffer Tube:

  • AR pattern
  • Glock
  • CZ Scorpion Evo 3
  • HK9X pattern
  • And more

 

Just slip it on and tighten the large set screw for a rock-solid installation.

 

Features include:

  • Available in black, flat dark earth, OD green, and stealth gray
  • Quick and easy to install
  • Provides additional support during firing
  • Weighs a scant 5.0 ounces
  • ATF-approved for pistol use

 

 

Blade® 2M (Mil-Spec) 

With the same features as the Shockwave Blade pistol stabilizer, the Blade 2M adjusts with a simple finger lever. 

 

It’s compatible with all pistols equipped with a mil-spec buffer tube like the KAK Mil-Spec Carbine Buffer Tube

  • AR-15 pattern
  • MPX
  • Glock
  • CZ Scorpion Evo 3
  • HK9X pattern
  • And more

 

Features include:

  • Available in black, flat dark earth, OD green, and stealth gray
  • Quick and easy to install
  • Provides additional support during firing
  • Weighs a scant 4.0 ounces
  • ATF-approved for pistol use

 

 

 

NEW! Blade® Classic

The new, veteran-designed Shockwave Blade Classic pistol stabilizer takes a slightly smaller approach to the traditional signature Shockwave Blade look with all the new desirable features. 

 

It’s made from high-strength glass-reinforced polymer with a QD swivel mount (QD swivel not included). With the vertical-pull latch on the bottom of the Blade, you’ll be able to quickly adjust it to different lengths and gain more support, giving you a boost in safety, marksmanship, and comfort.

 

The Blade Classic pistol stabilizer fits all pistols equipped with a mil-spec buffer tube like the KAK Mil-Spec Carbine Buffer Tube

  • AR-15 pattern
  • MPX
  • Glock
  • CZ Scorpion Evo 3
  • HK9X pattern
  • And more

 

Features include:

  • Available in black (coming soon in FDE, ODG, and gray)
  • Ambidextrous side-mounted QDs for sling attachment
  • Quick and easy to install; just slip it on, and it locks in place
  • Provides additional support during firing

Weighs a scant 4.0 ounces 

 

 

NEW! Blade® Stealth

The Shockwave Blade Stealth pistol stabilizer is our very latest design. The new slick look and slightly smaller profile make it extremely comfortable for any user. The Blade Stealth is adjustable with a simple pull-down latch. 

 

Just like the Blade Classic, it’s also made from high-strength glass-reinforced polymer with a QD swivel mount (QD swivel not included) and fits all pistols equipped with a mil-spec buffer tube like the KAK Mil-Spec Carbine Buffer Tube:

  • AR-15 pattern
  • MPX
  • Glock
  • CZ Scorpion Evo 3
  • HK9X pattern
  • And more

 

 

Features include:

  • Available in black (coming soon in FDE, ODG, and gray)
  • Ambi side-mounted QDs for sling attachment
  • Quick and easy to install; just slip it on, and it locks in place
  • Provides additional support during firing
  • Weighs a scant 4.0 ounces

 

 

 

Shockwave AR-15-Pattern Tubes 

 

 

KAK Shockwave Buffer Tube

The KAK Shockwave Buffer Tube is specifically designed for the Shockwave Blade Pistol Stabilizer, creating the world’s best pistol stabilizing system. 

 

With an anti-rotation and anti-thrust design, the Blade stays put without sliding forward or spinning. It’s flush with the rear of the Blade when it’s installed fully forward. When installed fully out, the assembly is incredibly rigid.

 

The Class 3 hard-anodized tube features 12 length-adjustment settings. It’s the same length as a KAK Mil-Spec Carbine Buffer Tube at 7.25 inches. 

 

The KAK Shockwave tube accepts all carbine buffer systems, mil-spec receiver endplates, and aftermarket endplates. 

 

 

KAK Mil-Spec Carbine Buffer Tube

With the same benefits of the KAK Shockwave Buffer Tube, the KAK Industry 6-position Mil-Spec Carbine Buffer Tube is compatible with the Blade 2M, Blade Classic, and Blade Stealth.

 

 

 

 

 

Shotgun Raptor™ Grip

 

With the enhanced texture and ergonomic design of the Raptor Grip, you’ve never been able to hold onto your firearm with as much confidence and control, improving both safety and comfort. Its unique angle minimizes felt recoil, allowing for maximum control shot after shot. It’s also constructed with a glass-filled polymer, making it virtually indestructible. 

 

There are also new Raptor Grip colors available: black, flat dark earth, OD green, and stealth gray. 

 

 

Raptor™ Grip 500/590

The Raptor Grip 500/590 fits:

  • Mossberg 500 12-gauge firearms (aka 500A)
  • Mossberg 500 20-gauge firearms (aka 500C)
  • Mossberg 590 and 590A1 firearms (12-gauge)
  • Mossberg 510 Mini firearms (12- and 20-gauges)
  • Mossberg 835 firearms (12- and 20-gauges)
  • Mossberg 535 firearms (12- and 20-gauges)
  • Mossberg 600 (New Haven) firearms (12- and 20-gauges)
  • Maverick 88 (12- and 20-gauges)
  • Coast to Coast model CC 660 Master Mag (12- and 20-gauges)
  • Mossberg 590A1 and 500 Compact Cruiser AOW

 

 

Raptor™ Grip 500E (.410) 

The Raptor Grip 500E (.410) / Raptor Grip M500E fits:

  • Mossberg 500E .410 gauge firearms (aka 500E)
  • Mossberg 590E .410 gauge firearms (aka 590E)

 

 

Raptor™ Grip 870

The Raptor Grip 870 fits:

  • Remington 870 12-gauge firearms
  • New England Firearms (NEF) Pardner Pump Protector 12-gauge
  • Harrington & Richardson (H&R) Pardner Pump Protector 12-gauge
  • Interstate Arms Corp (IAC) Hawk Model 98 12-gauge
  • Interstate Arms Corp (IAC) Hawk Model 982 12-gauge
  • Interstate Arms Corp (IAC) Hawk Model 981R 12-gauge

 

 

Raptor™ Grip 870 + 20-gauge Adapter

The Raptor Grip 870 fits:

  • Remington 870 20-gauge firearms
  • New England Firearms (NEF) Pardner Pump Protector 20-gauge
  • Harrington & Richardson (H&R) Pardner Pump Protector 20-gauge
  • Interstate Arms Corp (IAC) Hawk Model 98 20-gauge
  • Interstate Arms Corp (IAC) Hawk Model 982 20-gauge
  • Interstate Arms Corp (IAC) Hawk Model 981R 20-gauge

 

Mesa Tactical’s 20-gauge to 12-gauge adapter is included in this package.  Simply attach it to the receiver in place of the standard 20-gauge stock. This cast steel adapter then enables you to attach the Raptor 12-gauge Remington 870 grip.

 

 

Raptor™ Grip 870 with QD

 

Raptor Grip 870 with a QD swivel fits:

  • Remington 870 12-gauge firearms
  • New England Firearms (NEF) Pardner Pump Protector 12-gauge
  • Harrington & Richardson (H&R) Pardner Pump Protector 12-gauge
  • Interstate Arms Corp (IAC) Hawk Model 98 12-gauge
  • Interstate Arms Corp (IAC) Hawk Model 982 12-gauge
  • Interstate Arms Corp (IAC) Hawk Model 981R 12-gauge

 

 

 

 

Shockwave Raptor™ F1™ Forend 

 

When you want to turn up your shotgun’s badass factor up to 11, reach for the Shockwave Raptor™ F1™ forend. Its cutting-edge design improves handling and speeds target acquisition. A direct replacement for your factory or aftermarket forend, the Shockwave Raptor F1 is available as a standalone forend, with an optional upper heat shield, with an optional forend installation tool—or any combination thereof.

 

Features for all the Shockwave Raptor F1 forend include:

  • Rugged glass-reinforced polymer
  • Lightweight
  • Available in black, flat dark earth, OD green and stealth gray
  • Extra length lets you personalize forward handhold
  • Ribbed inset area provides secure gripping
  • Front and rear handstops improve safety
  • A total of 10 M-LOK® slots allow for mounting lights, vertical grips, angled grips, Picatinny rails, and more
  • Optional upper heat shield prevents burns and offers rifle sights for fast target acquisition
  • Optional forend wrench simplifies and speeds installation
  • Veteran designed
  • Made in the U.S.A.

 

 

Raptor F1 Forend for Mossberg 500/590

This Raptor F1 forend fits 12-gauge Mossberg 500/590 firearms with both lengths of slide action tubes (7-3/4” and 6-3/4”) thanks to the included adapter. 

 

 

 

Raptor F1 Forend for Mossberg 590/Shockwave 

This Raptor F1 forend fits 12-gauge Mossberg 590 firearms and Mossberg 590 Shockwave firearms, which feature a 6-3/4″ long slide action tube.

 

 

Raptor F1 Forend for Remington 870/TAC-14

This Raptor F1 forend fits 12-gauge Remington 870 firearms, including the TAC-14 featuring the Shockwave Technologies Raptor Grip.  

 

 



Whether you plan on adding some of these gun accessories to your own Christmas wish list or getting it for a fellow gun-lover, make sure you order by December 18, 2020 to ensure it arrives by Christmas!

5 Questions To Ask Before Buying A Gun

When it comes to buying a gun, there are a few key questions you need to ask yourself before walking into a gun store and letting your emotions drive your purchase. It’s crucial to do your research and prepare ahead of time with questions you want to ask the gun dealer before you pull out your wallet and walk out as a new gun owner. 

5 Questions To Ask Before Buying A New Gun

 

1) Why are you interested in buying a gun? 

 

Whether you’re interested in buying a gun for sport, hunting, or personal defense, it’s important to know why you plan to buy a gun and the type of gun you need, so you can prepare the right questions to guide your purchase. 

 

Once you determine the type of gun you want to buy, don’t skip out on doing your research. If you want a firearm for home defense, you’ll want to consider what makes the best home defense firearm and accessories. Is it an AR? Is it a shotgun? If you can’t decide which one you need after doing your research, have your questions ready to ask the gun dealer to help you determine which firearm will work best for you.

 

As Off The Grid News puts it, you first “identify the purpose, and choose a [firearm] to fill that purpose.”



2) Is it the right fit?

 

After determining why you need a gun and the type of gun you need, it’s time to test out the ergonomics. When you go to your local firearm dealer, handling the gun and making sure it’s a good fit for your hands is very important for safety, comfort, and accuracy. You’ll also want to find out how much the gun recoils when fired, which is important to know depending on the firearm’s purpose and how often you plan to use it. 

 

If you’re not sure the gun is a good fit, there are a couple of options you can consider:

 

  1. Find out if there is a local shooting range nearby that will let you test out the gun or rent the gun, so you can determine if it’s going to be worth purchasing. 
  2. Ask the gun dealer if they can help you find a gun that fits your hand properly. A gun that’s too big is hard to hold onto. One that’s too small may be harder to shoot accurately.


Check out our blog about Shockwave Raptor™ Grips and why ergonomics are important for firearm design



3) What’s your budget?

 

Firearms can get quite expensive, so it’s important to stick to a budget and choose one that will fit your purpose before buying a gun. Regardless of the price range of the firearm you’re interested in, it’s important to do your due diligence to know the right price for a specific model, know when someone is trying to oversell you, and know when a great deal comes along.

 

Don’t forget to budget for other things that come along with buying a gun — from taxes, to background checks, to accessories, to ammunition, to permits, and more. Ask the gun dealer if there are any extra costs and fees involved. 

 

If you’re pinching pennies to budget for a new gun or not confident about the gun you are considering, again, you might want to ask the gun retailer (or do your research) to see if there are any nearby shooting ranges that allow you to try before you buy.

 

If you are a veteran or first time buyer, you might even ask the gun dealer if there are any discounts, rebates, or sales going on that would benefit your purchase of the firearm. 

 

Lastly, check out the required firearm transaction record form to see if anything might disqualify you from purchasing a firearm. Focus on questions 11a-11i, 12, and 13 to determine this.



4) Which firearm accessories can you add on?

 

Whether you need home defense firearm accessories, want to accessorize for aesthetic purposes, or need maintenance kit items to keep your gun clean, don’t forget to include these in your budget. The main accessories you want to consider are those that will enhance the experience, accuracy, and comfort of your firearm for its intended purpose. 

 

You’ll also want to consider how you plan to store your gun. Firearm storage can be expensive, but an important way to keep your loved ones safe and keep it from being easily stolen. 

 

Lastly, for training purposes, it’s important to have the accessories you need to protect yourself from misuse that could cause injury or worse. Find out where you can get basic safety training or safely practice shooting your gun to get used to it. You can even watch tutorials online to show you how to use the gun, what each function means, how it shoots, and so forth to prepare you for your training phase after purchase. 

 

Do your research and determine which accessories are important for your firearm of choice.

 

Examples of Shockwave Technologies and partner firearm accessories include:

 

 

View https://shockwavetechnologies.com to view all firearm accessories.



5) What are the firearm’s capabilities and performance?

 

Knowing the performance and capabilities of your firearm are also important before purchasing. A few things you might want to know include:

 

  • Bullet drop
  • Bullet or shot grouping
  • Magazine capacity

 

The bullet drop is the distance that a bullet drops after being fired over a certain distance — and largely a function of the cartridge the firearm is chambered for. Bullet drop is an important and potentially complex component of ballistics for gun owners for a variety of reasons, whether hunting, target shooting, etc. Discuss this aspect with your dealer. 

 

Bullet or shot grouping relates to the accuracy of the firearm. In short, it indicates how closely each round will hit in relation to each other. Tightness of shot groupings are measured based on the distance between each bullet hole on the target. Accuracy is not only important for target shooters and hunters, it’s also important for self protection and other firearm uses.

 

Magazine capacity lets you know how many rounds of ammunition you have “on tap” in each magazine. Whether you are target practicing or firing your gun in self defense, it’s important to know how many shots you have available before you need to reload.



What other questions do you like to ask yourself or the gun dealer before purchasing a new firearm? Leave a comment below.