Airsoft Tactics & Strategies MilSim by AirSplat - When Bullets cross over to Airsoft BBs

CQC/CQB: Food for Thought

2011-06-23T16:55:00.000-07:00

Some CQC food for thought. It's pretty cut and dry, but with a six man configuration you can take on a lot of different building entry scenarios, from a simple one entry configuration, to multiple points of entry. I'll post my thoughts later in an edit

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Close Quarter Battle Tactics: The Darby Document
By Terrance Jones ARNG

Troop 1

Troop 1 determines the initial penetration of the attacking force and the success or failure of securing structures by space control and precision clearance interlocking fire that is assigned to each troop by vector field trajectory assignments. The weapon preference for troop 1 depends on reconnaissance reports on the configuration and size of the building that is to be attacked /secured. This last point will also need detailed analysis of the following:
1. Numerical troop strength of opposing force.
2. Spacing of individual rooms.
3. Overall building configuration.
* The weapons used by troop 1 should provide positive tandem force continuity in regards to initial penetration/ repelling fire of troop 1. This will help troop 1 determine the rate of initial entry room control and the rate of multiple space entry and control.

Troop 2

This assignment is a force multiplier position in urban assault missions, as it will exponentially accelerate the success of single and multiple room space control.
Example:
The initial entry assignment of troop 1 will facilitate an opportunity for troop 2 to severely weaken the opposing force by use of decisive marksmanship by M-16 and or handgun depending on reconnaissance factors, as the initial entry assignment of troop 1 should divide the positions of the opposing forces in the room to two vector field trajectory points which gives troop 2 a chance to neutralize several opposition force in one vector field if speed, stealth and surprise factors are successfully taken advantage of.

Troop 3

Troop 3 operates as an attritional force establishment (advancement and space control term in this case) force multiplier along with troops 1 and 5. Troop 3 will give the attacking force more efficient and rapid control of a room due to its lethal rapid fire weaponry while giving the following members of a 6 man team the option of expanding their control to multiple areas.

Troop 4

Troop 4 shares the speed and stealth continuity assignments of troops 2 and 6 on a 6 man team. Troop 4 will decide the rate of multiple room penetration and initial entry room control. This will make multiple room penetration and control possible while reducing the degree of difficulty. Troop 4 must execute his tasks precisely, as he will take on the role of troop 1 if the opportunity exists for more rapid control measures by two 3 man teams. This type of tactical assault should be implemented from the vector formation to facilitate efficient rapid control and relinquish tactics between the 6 man team members.

Troop 5

Troop 5 must implement and exhibit lethal force through proper positioning and appropriate firepower depending on size and configuration of the building. Troop 5 performs redundant control tasks that multiply the options of troop 6. If dual team(3man configuration) rapid control measures are being implemented, troop 5 will assume the vector formation assignment of troop two although, his entry task and weaponry will remain the same. This is made possible by precision and speed in regards to all troop tasks.

Troop 6

Upon entry, troop 6 will cover multiple gaps in the vector field trajectories of troops 1-5 with precision shooting by handgun or M-16. This coverage task will enhance the efficiency and lethality the 6 man team by redundant space control tactics. In a vector assault from the vector formation, troop 6 will take on the assignment of troop 3 to facilitate multiple room penetration and control by troops 1-3.

Bibliography
American Warfare: Merging Dominant Stratagems

Special Teams

2011-01-29T20:03:00.000-08:00

Integrating Other Assets

In the last article we talked about the task organization of a squad sized team.

In this one I am going to touch on special jobs that could be added to a milsim team and how to incorporate them. These aren’t required for success, but more advanced players will benefit by the skirmishes becoming a bit more interesting and challenging. The special roles I am referring to are the following;

Grenadier
Sniper
Heavy Weapons
Engineer
Medic

I know that by involving a heavy machine gun, grenade launchers and Airsoft demolitions that you are upping the "expense ante". But, this is just a way to incorporate these platforms into a squad if you have them available.

The grenadiers should be placed singly in the fire teams. An ideal setup would be to have 1 grenadier per fire team for maximum edge and fire power on the enemy. The grenadier is perfect to initiate an ambush on your enemy because the initial round will have a much larger kill zone than small arms fire. Having a grenadier also simplifies work against bunkers and fortified locations.

The sniper is where things will be dramatically changed form real world tactics to the Mil-Sim Airsoft realm. You will see much detail on this when Buck starts his sniper write ups on the 1st of June. With the range being minimized by an Airsoft sniper rifle you are going to have to seriously focus on cover, camouflage, concealment, and security.

I would not put a sniper in a fire team. A sniper would work best in a team of two, the shooter and the security. If the sniper is lying down covered by his gillie, looking down the scope, he needs someone watching his flanks and covering his back while he chooses his targets. I would have the security element place himself 15-20 ft behind the sniper’s position offset with either a slight right or left offset. This will allow security to take down any enemy trying a flanking maneuver against the sniper team. Much more detail will be written in regards to snipers on June 1st.

If you are lucky enough to have someone with a SAW (Squad Automatic Weapon) or other dedicated heavy support weapon you can master a tactic known as support by fire. This is best utilized with larger sized squads or teams with enough people to have 3 fire teams, one of which being a “Weapons Team”. Your heavy weapon is mainly used for keeping the enemies attention and head down while your fire teams advance and maneuver onto them. We will get more detail into this when I get into the actual tactics and different assaults you can perform on an enemy.

The engineer and medic are a case by case deal.

As a team and the opposing team need to set the rules and guidelines for the medic. If he has props (such as gauze) is he allowed to treat extremity hits and regenerate a player? You can get creative with this and even go as far to creating a casualty collection point in which wounded players may be brought back to for "revivial". This is all up to you.

In reference to the engineer: if you are lucky enough to have a few claymores by all means use them when you can. Try to lure your enemy into a choke point where you have placed the claymores and take them out. Ways to do this will be talked about more in depth in the actual tactics portion.

Well, that was the brief overview to special teams and how to incorporate them into a squad. I hope you enjoyed reading and I hope you're looking forward to the 1st of June. Buck has some great stuff coming!

Donnie

Loadout Explanation

2011-01-16T12:43:00.000-08:00

A Venture Into Setup

I had a very nice comment recently on one of the articles that requested a write up on two specific topics.

The first is some tips on a standard magazine loadout.

Let's focus today on magazine load out. With kit setup, it really comes down to personnel preference but I will explain how I setup mine, along with my reasoning. You can choose to try my methods, or if you have something that works for you, stay with what you've got and treated it as advice as how others do it.

I will kick this off explaining the picture of my setup. When I refer to directions I am referring them as if the vest is being worn on my body, not directions in the picture. So when I say “left” I mean the left side of the vest as worn...not the "LEFT SIDE FACING".

The vest itself is an Alauda Centurion TAC SF 2. It is made of Dyneema instead a Kevlar which is a fiber a lot stronger and a lot lighter than Kevlar. The outer shell is ACU, of course, and it has a Gel pack located in the back of the vest that sits against your kidneys, you can freeze the gel pack to keep you cool in the heat. It also has the top half of the MOLLE webbing lined with soft Velcro, so you can easily put any patches or flags where you’d like. I helped design this vest and it is a beautiful accomplishment for Alauda Centurion. I would not recommend it for milsim Airsoft, because a ballistic vest is not really needed in the game, but I am in talks with the owner of the company to make a version that has no Dyneema in it, for the milsim Airsoft Community. The shell would probably be fairly cheap at about $100 or so.

Off of my left side I have my two “Quick Reload” Magazines. I keep these positioned low and right on the left hip. Why? Well when you hold you weapon at the high ready (up like you’re aiming), drop you left hand. It swings naturally to your left side! So if you need to be quick about reloading, put your magazines in a place where it feels perfectly natural for you to grab. I have the curve of the magazine facing backwards also, just because that is always how I have trained to reload, and my muscle memory is set in the exact rotation that has to occur from the mag being in that position. This may be different for others, some may need their mags to face the other way that is all personal preference.

On the left half of the center portion of the vest, I have what we refer to as; “Shingles”. They are single Magazine pouches with additional MOLLE webbing on the front face of them so you have the option to add other items to to your kit such as a single pistol magazine pouch. I carry a total of 5 magazines on my front and one inside the weapon. With Airsoft Magazines that hole hundreds of rounds, this is more than enough for a game.

BUT: that brings me to an additional point. I carry 6 magazines on my back, in three 2x mag holder pouches. So does everyone else on my team. This is not for you, but to re-supply your buddy. If we all have 6 magazines on our backs, this means at any given time, with anyone on the team, you can run up behind them and grab some fresh ammo. I will get into this more and harp on it greatly when I talk about SQUAD composition and duties.

On my front I ONLY use single deep mag pouches. WHY? Because when you start slapping 2-3 mag holding pouches on your kit you become very bulky and wide. Soon you will have trouble fitting into doors, ducking into the prone, or having decent mobility. SO KEEP YOUR KIT SLEEK AND COMPACT!!! That is my biggest point I want to get through to guys: you need mobility, so don’t sacrifice it just to have 100 things mounted to your chest.

Other stuff on my kit: a utility pouch for whatever else I need, a Radio pouch on the far right, a knife, my GPS on the upper left, medical sheers (good for just about anything), a compass, a second chance line and finally my sling.

This brings me to another trick I have come to love, but again, it may not appeal to everyone. I HATE wrapping a sling around my neck. No matter which one you get it will always work its way around your gear and start rubbing on your neck. The solution was I attached a Single point sling by T.A.G. (Tactical Assault Gear) to the vest itself. It is routed to my back and connected. This puts my weapon at a near perfect resting place when I let go, allows for smooth transitions into my pistol which is in a SafariLand Drop Leg holster. It also distributes the weight (of a real M4) beautifully. I recommend trying this, but you need the Single point ring for your weapon if you plan on doing so.

Keep your gear tight and synched, and stay away from sagging and dangling kit. Airsoft Mil-Sim requires maximum freedom of mobility, so match your kit to suit those needs. Set your stuff up to movement that comes natural to you. The one thing that drives me nuts, is when I see a right handed shooter with Magazines on his right side, I am curious to see how he plans on easily reaching those, having to reach under his weapon.

Well, I hope this helped some of you decide on how to make a good setup and if you need any additional advice on pouches and gear feel free to email me. I will be happy to assist you personally to find stuff that fits your needs.

Donnie

Fat Man Unleashed

2011-01-04T16:10:00.000-08:00

It’s a common effect of returning back from active duty. After spending months to a year at a time in a harsh environment, constantly performing high level activity, limited calorie intake, and perspiring, we come back a little underweight but in top physical form. Then suddenly everything shifts, you’re not longer active, there’s a wealth of delicious food and drinks at your disposal, and the pounds start coming on at an incredible rate. The beers at all the welcome back parties, the bbq, the fun nights out with your buddies. It’s only natural, our bodies are wired by evolution to do this. You come back in a starvation/survival state, and with the sudden influx of nutrition, your body thinks this moment is rare and will start storing most of it as fat to hold you over when the next lean time comes. But there is no lean time, in today’s modern world calories are easy to come by. I gained 45 pounds in the time I had left active service and settled back to civilian life. Only recently in the last 6 months have I started to do something about it with an exercise regimen. It’s slow, but steady progress.
I work for Airsplat, which is a large retailer of Airsoft equipment. Though I am an expert on our equipment, I had not thoroughly explored the spectrum of activities centered on Airsoft. One day, when my feet were dragging a bit, I decided I was going to give one of the MilSim (military simulation) excursions a try. I thought it could be a great active adventure and diversion from my normal fitness routine – I was more than right. Not only was I outside and active, but it was intense and due to the nature of the game, I felt like I was doing burst training as I sprinted from blockade to blockade to avoid being shot. What was even more compelling for me was for once I felt like I was putting all the hours in the gym to use.
I prepared for the event with a military mindset. I packed my car with (a more palatable version of) military rations: Protein Bars, Jerky, dried fruits, small plastic containers of pasta my wife made me. I made sure to bring along gallons of water that I could fill my Hydration bladder with. Usually when I play at local indoor fields a small bottle of Gatorade is enough as I only work up a minor sweat; but something about the seriousness of the event website told me this was something I’d have to rely on my military training and background for. I also invited a few of my buddies (some from my unit and others who just like to play airsoft) to come along with me.
We parked at the location, paid the fees (45 for registration) received our mission objectives, and proceeded to our starting point a mile away. Though my pack was nowhere as near as it was (45 lbs with body armor in Iraq) the 20 or so pounds I had on me started to work up a good sweat, needless to say I felt my blood pressure rise when I saw our starting camp was on a rather steep ridge. By the time I got to the camp I was soaked, and we hadn’t even started playing yet!
I barely had time to catch my breath and gear up when we heard the call over the long range radio that the scenario had started. Our small platoon locked and loaded their
Airsoft guns and we rolled out. Apart from me and my buddies, a lot of the other players were older teenagers, so we weren’t the most coordinated, but that added to the fun. It was frenetic and we were running around at top speed, weaving between trees and plywood barricades. When we called lunch I had gone through my entire 2.5 liter hydration bladder and had to refill! I was amazed at how much water I had gone through. I also knew that being hydrated also made me the most efficient fat burning machine.
Usually when working out, I can forget to drink water because I’m almost done with a set of reps, or it’s a hassle to carry when running. Not when playing airsoft. Your body demands it so badly you’re constantly chugging it down between mouthfuls of air. For lunch I could almost feel the food energize me as I ate it, which meant that it was being used for playing, rather than storing in my gut.
The rest of the day was a fantastic fun. I was running, dodging, sliding, and splashing my way across the woods, breathing in fresh clean air. Activities like airsoft take you out of the structured norm, and lets you have a good sense of your own body and how far it’s come in terms of physical improvement. I knew before I started my workout routine 6 months ago, I wouldn’t have survived a few hours of playing at this level of intensity. I think going to these serious airsoft events provides a good training checkup to see if I’ve improved overall. It also gives me something to work towards every month or so, and changes the mindset I have when I work out. “this will help me be little faster than the other guys”, “this will help me carry my gear around better after hours of playing”. I’m the kind of person that needs a strong motivator to keep my motivation going. Attending these events helps add some clear personal goals in my journey to lose these “civvy” pounds
To find a nearby field you can go to this site, http://www.airsplat.com/states.htm it has a full listing of fields and local groups by state, so you can plan your next intense physical outing. I now make a point to go at least once a month. I am able to exercise, be outside, spend time with a few friends and best of all, it’s really inexpensive.

Sniper Part 2

2011-01-03T11:41:00.000-08:00

First and foremost please allow me take a few minutes to thank all that have read the ATCT BLOG, expressed interest in our postings, and responded to us. We are trying to make a better and more realistic AIRSOFT community, we base this off of our military training and all the others that have taken up AIRSOFT as a recreational event with some type of MILITARY or LAW ENFORCEMENT backgrounds. I can speak for all of us at ATCT when I say that in excess of 80% of the information that we will put out is based on real combat experiences. The rest theory we have learned or deduced from experience.

We received an inquiry about deception and its application. Deception is applied to your hide or over watch position. There is a rule of thumb when taking up a position and that is; “if you can see the enemy he probably can see you”. With that being said, you always have to put yourself into the eyes of the enemy and consider how he would see your position.

During Sniper school stalking exercises are practiced starting with concealment exercises first. This is were the sniper builds a good position using camouflage to the best of his ability, and then the observer burns his area, and tells him exactly what he sees, this, however, is not for a record, but to allow the sniper to understand the proper use of his camouflage and concealment.

One of the biggest problems I have seen with young snipers is that they do not understand how to use the vegetation around them. A vegetation block is defined as placing vegetation between you and your target.

It is a lot easier to burn out of a veg block than it is to see into it from a distance. This is were deception applies, by making the enemy thinking you are in a different position than you really are. When you view something with Binoculars you loose your depth perception. This helps the sniper, for it is very difficult to see through vegetation at great distances.

The sniper wants to look as much like the environment as he can. If you can’t do this, standoff is the next best thing. A lot of young snipers think that you have to be up into their veg block and this is very wrong, Even if you are using a ghillie suit, the ghillie is not natural, and with a trained observer he will notice this big blob of ghillie crap where it does not belong in the environment.

You have to remember that the ghillie suit is only a tool, and not cloaking device! Many folks think that you are invisible if you wear a ghillie, but actually it can hinder you more than help you if you do not know how to properly use it.

The ghillie can be an outstanding tool. When used right, can conceal you a great deal from the enemy. When constructing a ghillie there are many different ways to do it and you should find the one that best meets your mission. One thing to remember is; “always start light in color, because you can always go darker, but if you start dark you can never go lighter.”

I do believe that a one piece ghillie is probably more feasible than a two piece. You can construct a one piece out of a night desert smock, which is what I have been using for years. It is meant to be worn over your regular uniform so it’s big enough to make it over your KIT, and comes with a hood that makes a great veil. It is long enough to cover half way down your legs, now you can use your imagination for the rest, but I would recommend tie- in’s about 12” long every 1 to 2 inches for natural veg.

One of the biggest things I like to use in my ghillie is; “manila rope”. It is outstanding when you uncoil it, and strip it. When you tie this in, it looks natural and moves the same way when the wind blows across it. Again your ghillie construction is a part of the "Sniper’s arts and crafts" that I speak about. Remember: a sniper is a master of his world and all those tools he uses to accomplish his mission.

On to "stand-off"

Stand-off refers to not crawling all the way up into your veg-block, once you have found a FFL or FFP (final firing line or position). Stop and asses your situation. Use your optics to burn thru the vegetation. Once you can see the target area you are golden. It does not have to be in great vision at this point; we will soon address that.

Make sure that you have a nice set of shears so you can cut into your veg-block until there is only a front to the block. Remember to take into account your lighting considerations and shadows behind you. Once you have cut into the block, back off of it a little and re-acquire your target again, you should have great vision and you are burning thru a little vegetation rather then a lot, and those observing you must look through it all to find you. Using depth and color, you are creating an opticl illusion.

You should always wear your KIT under your ghillie. I suggest that you make pockets in side of your suit so if there are items that you need to quickly get to, you can reach them. If you decide to put any pockets on the inside or outside, I suggest at least two, one which should be for your cutting shears (remember to tie these off to you so you don’t lose them....I am telling you that because it happened to me). Make a big enough tie off that you can work with those shears and then roll it up and PUT THEM AWAY.

This brings up another debate, Velcro pockets or buttons? I always have used buttons and probably always will, for there is no sound with buttons and hook pile tape has a tendency to collect crap in it. The other pocket should be for some type of optics. I use an 8 to 10 power monocular. It is small and easy to use. I prefer the monocular for it gives you the same field of view as you rifle scope, so if you can burn thru that veg-bloc with it then you will have no problem with your rifle scope.

I understand with milsim AIRSOFT that our range is limited, so you need to hone your movement skills in order to stalk up on your targets, and this is something that needs to be practiced a lot. Sound and improper camouflage are the 2 biggest target identifiers. Remember, a good sniper’s movement is measured in inches and not feet.

You must be very deliberate when moving within such close proximity of the enemy. When close to the opponent, sound will be your biggest enemy. If you are lucky. there will be a lot of activity going on at the OBJ... but still consider your movement and try to be as deliberate as possible. One thing to remember is "always keep some type of veg-bloc between you and the OBJ, that way it will always screen your movement". You can also use the sound of the enemy to guide you to your FFP.

Your movement is key to your success. Movement techniques need to be practiced. would recommend that you find a route to the target that will not cause a lot of sound. When traveling in open areas you need to have extra discipline. If you are in a dry leaved area or pine needles there must be trees, so use them to block, this what we call a tree stalk, line trees up in an row that screen you from the enemy. This is one way that you can establish an FFP as well.

Another thing: don’t get the into the mind set that you have to shoot from the prone all of the time! If you learn to stalk properly and use the terrain and vegetation to your advantage you can do a lot of engaging from different positions. I know I reference a lot to your skill at stalking...a lot of you probably would like me to explain the proper movement and stalking techniques, but there is no right or wrong way to do it.

Stalking is something you must practice, but I can tell you this, once you learn how to stalk you will never forget it.

Here is a stalking exercise, and is pretty much the same one that I did when I was a student and an Instructor. You and your teammates find a good area to stalk, with vegetation, and at one end set up a table for the observer. Now, one the observer is set, he can not move the table, (it would better if you could elevate the table into a truck bed or something to give the observer a full field of view). Remember this is not supposed to be easy for you. The harder you train, the easier it will be once you do it for real.

As I was sitting at a targeting meeting with my Commander today, a good friend made a comment that went like this “a bucket of sweat will save a pint of blood.” This is so true when it comes to training. Training is tough and you have to train to be tough so you don’t falter on the mission. Allow me to share a little story that happened to me in Iraq on my first deployment.

On my first deployment here to Iraq, I was with a surveillance team and we had a mission to go into a town and PID a target that another unit wanted to raid the next day. We had inserted just fine and my team leader at the time (and great friend) stayed in a hide position with his RATELO and kicked his Alpha and bravo teams out to recon the town and house.

Myself and good friend Lamo were Alpha team so we proceeded to the town with a simple job; walk in about 3-4 kilometers, get our noise and get out, with this attitude we stepped off with only our KITS on, and decided to leave our rucksacks at the hide (for some odd reason it inclemently cold, so I put a but pack on my rig that had a little green sleeping bag in it)

This was the only time up to this point that I had worn this butt pack. So we set out, our mission comm’s were shitty from the start, but par for the course, and we would be gone only for 2- 3 hours at the most.

I took up point at first, shot an azimuth, and away we went. Once we left our hide position and started down off of this big hill, we came to our first danger area: a road. No problem, we waited a few, watched and listened, and crossed to a large field. Once we came off the hill it was pretty open terrain, but the town had a large berm around it so we used it for cover as we moved. There were a lot of lights in the town so navigating was easy, the field was kind of rough to walk thru but we made it to the berm. After doing a map check we were right on course for what we needed to do.

Lamo then picked up point, and led us into the town and started heading to the target house, I will tell you, there is an overabundance of stray dogs in Iraq and they always pose a problem at night for they bark at anything that moves. And a lot of the Iraqi’s use them to protect their sheep and homes so we had to pull off several times and allow the dogs to move across town to our bravo team.

Once the dogs would pass we would move back in. This went on for several hours until we finally made eyes on the target house. In the distance we kept hearing tanks so I made a radio call back to our team leader asking what the hell we were hearing and his response with some humor was “I am hearing nothing from my position.” So we pressed on, got our intel and started out.

As the night grew older and morning was coming, time was becoming a factor to get out back across the field to the hide site. Our bravo team had already pulled off and was on their way back. We had a longer journey from the side of town that we had came in on, so we pretty much had to walk back thru town to get out. There was a terrible fog rolling in and we didn't mind that at all! It could screen our movement back to the hide site with the rest of the team, then we could get into our sleeping bags and get warm again.

Suddenly the rolling sounds started to get much closer. Concerned, we radioed back to the hide again and asked what the hell was going on. We got the same response; “nothing from here.” Then out of nowhere I heard our call sign come across the net from our main site telling us that tanks heading directly at us. The unit we were doing this reconnaissance for decided to come early and had not bothered to tell us.

I asked my team leader if the unit knew that we were still on the ground and if they were tracking our location, this is where Murphy’s Law came into effect. He responded with; “NO WE ARE WORKING THAT NOW!”

He advised us to change our route and head out another way. This was a problem. The only way out was all the way back through town and a complete walk-through of the target areaarea, back around the field, and on.to the hide site. Lamo and I looked at each other and echoed the same “F&%# that!”

So, we started our E&E plan. We took to ground and waited. By this time we were laying in a ditch about 100 meters form this M1 tank. As the net was cluttered with traffic of our location and sending grids so that the friendly tanker knew our position. We could not get confirmation that they knew where we were, and we did not want to give up our little hiding spot just yet.

There was a OH-58 Kiowa Helicopter flying above us so we made a near-far recognition by marking our position with blue and green chem-lights. After we confirmed that the unit doing the raid knew where we were, we decided to get warm, but all we had was this little sleeping bag just big enough for me, and we still did not trust this big-ass tank to our front.

Lamo and I have been friends for a long time and there was not a person on this earth that I had rather been there with while we were in this pickle. So, we decided that our body heat together would stop us from freezing to death, so we spooned. That is right, we spooned next to each other in this little bag for about 5 hours until our unit came in to pick us up. We were so cold once our unit got there we could barely move, and because of our location they could not get to us, so we had to make a run for them across this damn field again while frozen and a little pissed to be extracted out. All things aside our intel proved to be worthwhile and the unit got their man. As for Lamo and I, we got a little frost bite and hell of a story.

I thank my team leader for pushing us as hard as he did prior to us deploying, for it was that hard training that had pushed us through that night. Not saying the fact that someone needed to be slapped in the mouth for leaving us on the ground like they did, but that was our job and we knew the hazards of our profession.

Onto the exercise!

Once your truck is set up for the observer, walk down your lane that you plan to stalk and get a mental picture of where you would like to set up and a route you want to use. I recommend using a compass so you can shoot an azimuth to the truck and come in on the back azimuth. This well give you a sense of direction to your target location once you begine stalking.

Be mindful of your weapons' max range and what the max effective range is. This range (max effective) is where you want to shoot from so you can score a first round hit! The old axiom “One shit one kill” comes to mind here.

Have your other teammates walk the lane with some type of radios so they can talk to the observer The walkers are not to hurt you. They play no role but to walk where the observer tells them to. They are not to give the observer hints to where you are EVER. That would be completely counterproductive to the exercise.

When you reach your start point, I recommend at least a 500 meter stalk to start with. Take so time to camo up and then let the observer know when you are ready to move. Once the observer is ready he will tell you to move and set a time limit on the stalk. For example, at the school house we had 3 hours to make your first shot.

As you move to the target truck the observer will be scanning the area with some binoculars (I recommend about 8 to 10 power only). As the observer sees something in the lane, he should direct the walkers or every one who is stalking freeze, then the observer will move the walker to what he is seeing. The observer then gives the walker commands over the radio trying to walk him right to the sniper. When the observer thinks he is on the sniper, he will call out; “sniper at your feet” and if the walker can reach down and touch any part of the sniper including his gear, he is busted. If there is nothing there the observer gives the “continue to move” command and everyone continues to move.

Once the sniper has reached the FFP and shot the first shot, the observer will walk the walker close to the snipers' location and give the command “go within 10”. This means the walker is within ten feet of the sniper. The observer burns that area looking for the sniper, if he can not see anything after a couple of minutes, the walker ins instructed to move within 5 feet of the sniper. Once within 5 feet the observer will watch you as you fire your second shot.

At the school you are being observed while you have to reload and fire but for you, it is just fire, so if you can come up with a technique that will allow you to reload under observation it will help you hone your skills even more. After you take your second shot and with the muzzle velocity of your weapon the observer should not bust you out for your BB but for improper camo.

Once the sniper has taken a second shot have the walker touch him on the head so the observer in the truck can see the sniper's position and describe what he sees.

This, my friends, is a real basic sniper stalk and should be helpful. However, do not limit yourself to just grass stalks, do all kind of stalks! You never know what environment you may find yourself playing in .

To answer some of the equipment questions:

There are no real boots for snipering, just use a good military-style boot. Donnie T has listed some on our Blog.

In regards to your KIT, it should be tailored to your mission and I would say do not carry unnecessary gear. I see this a lot, with people who wear gear just to look cool, I always say; “wear what you need and look cool back home while having a cold one with your buddies,” as you notice in this bottom picture Donnie T is doing just that, but he would not wait until we got home.

Thank again for all the questions. I look forward to answering many more of them! Feel free to send an email straight to me at; ssbuck3118@yahoo.com if you have personal question you would like me to answer. Once again, may all your shots be straight and true.

“BUCK”

AKS-74U

2010-12-20T09:08:00.000-08:00

So this rifle has sat in a box for a couple of months and it wasn’t until recently that I decided that it needed a total overhaul. After I ripped apart my Sig 552, I had what was left of a high speed gearbox so I attempted to to fit it inside my Dboys 74u. The mosfet and shitty Chinese wiring made it a nightmare to get it fit in. So it sat in a box.

I decided it was a time for second run at it. The silver 7mm Guarder gearbox is way tough, but there was no way for the upper receiver release button would not fit. I actually had to jump BACK to the stock gearbox. I’m not too upset about this, I still carried over all of the other internals. JG gears, Deepfire cylinder head, ICS piston, and Systema cylinder and piston head, etc. The Guarder gearbox was my first attempt at a high speed gearbox. Totally did not work out at all by any stretch of it. Short stroking gears and soldering in mosfets just isn’t my thing. The first thing that I stripped out from the gearbox was the wiring harness. The Angel mosfet is still good to go, i’ll be saving that one for another day, but the rest could not be salvaged. The actual switch assembly was still good to go so I transfered it back over to the Dboys gearbox.

I decided to start with brand new RC car wiring so I made a quick stop over at Covina Hobby and went with 14 guage wiring. Well, 14 guage is just too big. I had to make a another trip to a different RC shop to get 16 guage wiring. Eventually, I got everything set. I drilled out a hole in the top of the upper receiver and with the deans connectors, it now carries the battery externally.

While I was at it, my muse kicked in and I found a simple way to strap on a sight. I found a KAC lower rail just laying around so I got to thinking. I pulled out the heat shroud and flipped it upside down. I put two more sets of holes in the top of the 74u’s upper receiver and strapped down the rail using two zip ties. Its not the most secure or stable, but its not like I’m using live ammo. Right now I have a Leapers 7x40 scope on top right now. Its not very practical, especially with this rifle. It hits hard, but would really need a red dot sight. In any case, I feel I’ve demonstrated some pretty nifty innovation. It will hold over until I track down an MTK83 side mount. I’m definitely looking forward to using this rifle more!

Austrian Death Machine

2010-12-20T08:36:00.000-08:00

No, not Arnold Schwarzenegger, but my Steyr AUG. This has been an interesting project. This one goes back to my whole OG assault rifles that I have put together during the last couple of projects. It is certainly not my last. There will be other old school rifles to come. We’re expecting some new items to come in over the next few weeks so I will certainly be adding to my collection.

I started with only one AUG that I found in our scrapyard that was made by Classic Army. It was only missing a few parts and the gearbox had no life. The part that was missing was the back plate that holds the gearbox in place.

I thought I would try to fabricate a part which would not have been that hard, but instead I figured it was best that I try and find another AUG. The planets must have aligned because the following day, while rummaging through the scrapyard again, I found a JG AUG that had nearly all of its parts and actually functioned. it was missing a few pieces like the safety and the take down pin for the upper receiver. BUT it did have the gearbox plate and that was what I was going for.

I got the rifle back to the lab and went to work. The one thing that the JG had was the built in scope. It also came with a green stock rather than the black one that the CA has. What was also neat was how the two upper receivers were interchangeable. Definitely a plus! As I was playing around with them, I found that the JG barrel would not fit in the CA upper, but the CA barrel fits in both. Pulling the motor out was a pain in the ass. It has to be properly aligned with the trigger otherwise you can pull all day and nothing will happen. After I got the motor out of the JG, I noticed funky wiring. There were two sets of red wiring going into one lead. The way the rifle works, is that when you pull the trigger half way, it will operate on semi, but when you pull the trigger completely, it will operate on full auto. The JG gearbox did function on both, but only outside the rifle. As soon as I re-installed it, it functioned only on full auto. Not a big deal. The more I inspected the wiring, the less I wanted to mess with the CA gearbox. After pull out the CA gearbox, I decided I actually found the green lower receiver of the JG more attractive even without the trademarks.

I also decided that I would do more work on the barrel of the JG. I chopped off the the front end of the barrel and brought it down by 6 inches giving it a great CQB length barrel. My only issue is that the new CQB barrel only fits on the scoped upper receiver. I’m working on that though. It looks pretty slick with the short barrel and the silencer attached.

I haven’t been able to skirmish with it yet. I’ve been meaning to have a day out at a field where I can really put my newest rifles to the test. I’ve also made the change over to lipo. I discovered 7.4v lipo batteries and now I want to replace all of my nicad and nimh batteries with them. I picked mine up at a local hobby shop and will probably continue to do so. In any case, lipos put out a much more consistent rate of power compared to nicad’s and nihm batteries. 7.4v lipo’s easily compare to 9.6’s. The discharge is even just a little bit higher

Getting On Line

2010-12-06T14:05:00.000-08:00

Giving your Airsoft team the ability to move like a team

Last month I talked about how to organize your team, now that we have established a baseline of what we are working with, I am able to slowly walk through the basics of tactics and move you through how to utilize advanced tactics on the battlefield. Again the advanced milsim tactics are only going to be successful if you have a team following the orders form the Squad leader and working together as a team.

The first thing your team is going to need to master, is the different types of formations you can move and hold in. Reacting to contact is one thing but you need to know how to patrol and get to your objectives in a safe and secure way so if you do encounter an attack you have the ability to easily counteract what the enemy was trying to do. Your basic means of movement formations are the File and Wedge. The file is when you and your teammates move in a single file line, one behind the other. This formation is used for very thick brush and has great security on you flanks but very little security to your front and rear. The other main formation is the Wedge. With a squad sized team you will actually have 2 small wedges where fire team will form a V shape and the second fire team will form another V shape behind them walking in the same direction. The wedge gives you great Flank and front security, but still limited rear security.

The biggest and most important thing your team needs to practice and learn is how to get on line. Whenever you encounter an attack this is always the first step to reaction, Getting On Line. This is where all your soldiers will run to the fire team leader or squad leader and get in a horizontal line together facing the enemy. This is now where the Squad leader is going to make the decision on what needs to be done, break contact or start a Squad Attack. Having all his men in one large line getting in the prone or taking cover and returning fire to the enemy lets him gauge the situation at hand and then easily issue orders because everyone is right there.

Breaking Contact

After coming in contact the Squad leader will assess the situation and decide what needs to be done. In the US Military we use a 3:1 ratio. We will not attack unless we have 3 coalition to every 1 enemy we have come in contact with. So if the squad leader feels he does not have the firepower and manpower to defeat the enemy he may make the decision to break contact. One of the main methods of breaking contact is the Australian Peel. This is where you will bound backwards with your team taking turns laying suppressive fire down on the enemy. As one guy runs backwards everyone is firing to the enemy, once he gets behind everyone and lays down and starts to fir himself, the next guy starts to retreat backwards and goes behind him. This is designed to have the team suppress the enemy as they pull back.

Do not look at breaking contact as retreating, later on I will explain how to do a baited ambush or diversion attack in which you can use the breaking contact as a trap for your enemy. This just means you want to pull back for a bit and give you Team leaders and Squad leader the ability to possibly formulate a new plan.

Squad Attack

On the other end of the spectrum is the basic squad attack move. When the squad leader decides it is time to go after the enemy and attack them he can use the basic squad attack method. This should start with the whole squad on line suppressing the enemy. One fire team will stay on line facing the enemy and continuing to fire at them in hopes to keep their heads down and their attention drawn. The second fire team will then get up and sprint to the enemy’s flanks either right or left, and then get on line as well. So now you have an “L” shape of fire being thrown at the enemy. If you outnumber your enemy this quickly overwhelms them and you will see if properly executed is very successful.

There is a ton of detail that goes into these moves but these are the brief and general breakdowns in attempt to try and get the basics drilled in and laid down.

Stopping in a Hostile Area

If you are behind your opponent’s lines and you are in a danger area of being found or ambushed and need to stop for whatever reason you need to know how to be secure when you stop. The main and easiest means of having a secure stop, is a tight 360. Make sure all your guys form a circle facing out while your squad leader and fire team leaders meet in the middle of the circle. You don’t want to leave any portion uncovered and let someone sneak up on your team because you had your backs to them.

Okay now that we have some basic movement techniques and organization to the team we can start getting down right sneaky with some very fun and cool tricks to play on your opponents. Be sure to check the next issue of AI for the beginning of Advanced Mil-Sim Tactics. If you have any questions feel free to email me at Donnie@ai-mag.com

Sniper - Part One

2010-12-01T00:00:00.000-08:00

Intro To Sniper Roles

First off, allow me to thank all of you who have expressed interest into our Blog and the Airsoft community.

We at ATCT want to give the best tactical training and consulting that we can offer to you. We have a wealth of knowledge at ATCT. All of our consultants have professional skills that have been proven in real world conflicts From Africa to the Middle East to the mean streets of the USA. We would like to bring a more realistic environment to the airsoft world; one that offers more of a planning and professional tactical and technical aspect. We at ATCT like to use airsoft as a training aid, we have found that, if used properly, can help hone are skills to razor sharp perfection. One of these skills is the Art of Snipering.

Snipering is an art and should not be thought of any other way. This is not a glorified job. Snipering is a profession and we have communities for our profession. The biggest thing that sets The US military trained sniper apart from the rest of the world is that we have the best sniper schools in the world...from entry level to our most advanced schools. It takes a special person to want to be apart of this community, for it is not a profession that is smiled on. If you are doing you job correctly then no-one; and I mean no-one will ever know that you were there, but if you make a mistake, the BS starts, and everyone has an "expert opinion" about your profession. With that being said: don’t screw the pooch and you will never have to answer for a dumb mistake.

"What is a sniper?" you ask yourself. Many folks may have an answer to this question, but not necessarilly the right answer.

Allow me to give you a little history behind the sniper. The term SNIPER comes for a little bird in Africa called a snipe, (yes, this true. For most of us that have grown up in the country remember taking our friends snipe hunting. And, if you don’t know this game ask someone who does and he or she will teach you... I am sure of it). The snipe was a little ground bird that ran very quickly across the earth. Those who could identify and shoot this fast little bird were given the title "sniper".

Another time in history where the sniper had made his mark was during our Civil War between the Union forces of the United States and the Confederate Force of the south. Both sides used them very well, the Union had an organization know as the United States Sharp Shooters(USSS). If ever you have the opportunity to visit a civil war cemetery and you see this on a head stone, this is what it means. The Confederate Army of the south employed snipers just as well, some of the biggest kills during the war from both sides were done by snipers. To be a sharpshooter one had to try out and place 10 shoots into a 12" pie pan at 200yds. With the weapons of the era this was a task all in itself!

The mission of the sniper is simple: deliver long precision rifle fire at , key targets, select targets, targets of opportunity, and to gain battle information for further ground combat operations. 98 % of the snipers mission is surveillance and reconnaissance and only about 2% doing direct target interdictions(shooting).

The snipers specialized skillset includes camouflage, marksmanship, and surveillance. Today I would like to discuss the factors to camouflage with you and explain how basic and easy it can be!

CAMOUFLAGE:

Skillful camouflage techniques can not only determine the success of a snipers' mission, but whether the sniper lives or dies. Snipers have outstanding marksmanship skills which are honed through schools and know-how with much fomalized training in the craft. However, his camouflage and concealment is solely up to his imagination. Knowledge of camouflage allows the sniper to carry out his target mission rather then becoming a target himself. The sniper must conceal himself, equipment and his position. This not only applies at all times while moving to the ORP and hide position. but sometimes more importantly when exiting enemy territory and entering friendly lines.

TARGET INDICATORS:
To master camouflage, the sniper must first understand target indicators. Target indicators are certain actions, or lack of other actions that determine whether or not a friendly or enemy soldier is detected. A sniper team must know and understand what target indicators are in order to remain undetected when moving or operating in a hide position. Knowledge of target indicators is also used by the sniper team to detect the enemy

SOUND:
This indicator is particularly noticeable in the dark. Although some sounds, including certain sounds of movement, might be dismissed as natural, other sounds of movement, such as the rattling of equipment, and talking, are distinctly unnatural.

MOVEMENT:
This indicator requires sufficient light. The human eye is attracted to movement, and it detects quick or jerky movements more easily than it does slow movements.

IMPROPER CAMOUFLAGE:
Reflections (shiny facial planes or inanimate surfaces), outlines, and shapes that contrast with their backgrounds draw certain attention to a position

DISTRUBANCE OF YOUR SURROUNDINGS AND WILDLIFE:
The sudden flight of birds, the abrupt cessation of animal sounds, or the fearful reaction of animals to unknown stimuli will draw the enemy's attention and can compromise the sniper.

BASIC MEHTODS:
A sniper must use three basic methods utilizing proper camouflage. They are HIDING, BLENDING, and DECEIVING. Hiding is when the sniper places him behind any obstruction that hides him and his equipment from the target. Blending is used when a sniper is within he surroundings and using tactics to avoid visual detection. Deceiving is when the sniper draws the enemy to a false position.

There two types of camouflage NATURAL and ARTIFICIAL.

Natural camouflage is when the sniper uses that vegetation and his surroundings Be sure to use to proper camouflage! For example, if in a position for a long period of time you should change out the natural vegetation that you have used, for it will slowly die and change colors which would lead to visual detection by the enemy.

Team members use materials or substances produced for the purpose of concealing with color or coverage. Examples include camouflage sticks or face paints, nets or veils with which members can cover all of their exposed skin such as their faces, hands, and the backs of their necks. When using camouflage sticks or face paints they lighten the shadowed parts of their faces and darken the shiny parts. They can use stripes, blotches, or a combination of both depending on the local terrain:

A sniper is a master at camouflage and deception of the enemy.

This is what I like to call sniper "arts and crafts". We pride ourselves in being able to stay concealed while the enemy operates all around our positions. As I said earlier: 98% of the sniper's mission is reconnaissance and surveillance. It is paramount that a sniper uses all natural and artificial camouflage to keep himself hidden from the enemy, because his whole mission may depend on it.

One of the biggest thing to remember is that as a sniper you are only a small instrument used in the big battle. Having said that, you are an important asset by virtue of being the eyes and years of the mission.

Another point is that your discipline is what makes the mission. Discipline is probably a snipers' most important tool. Discipline to stay focused at your task and not trying to glorify the job are what are important.

I believe if you put the right sniper in the right place at the right time he can change the world. The disciples of this craft must be as silent as they are professional.

I hope you have enjoyed this segment on camouflage and if you have any question feel free to email us here at ATCT, attn. BUCK.

I would like to leave you with a quote from one of the greatest snipers that operated for this great nation of ours.

“A GOOD HIGH FIRM GRIP, FOCUS ON YOUR CROSSHAIRS, BREATH, RELAX AND WAIT FOR THE RECOIL” Carlos Hathcock.

May all your shots be straight and true

Thanks
“BUCK”

Instead of doing a more traditional last 3 parts to this Sniper write up Buck would like to offer his time to you. He asks that you email any and all your sniper questions to

Donnie_airsplat@yahoo.com

And he will gear his next 3 posts specifically to your questions, so please pick his brain while you have the chance! And we look forward to your emails.

Donnie

CAR-15 Build

2010-10-21T11:56:00.000-07:00

My CAR15 build was actually a bit harder than I was expecting it to be. The primary rifle and gearbox used is a Classic Army Sportline M15A4 Shorty. I dug up a JG M733 upper receiver out of our scrapyard. This was key to the project. I could have easily just swapped out the muzzle, but I really wanted to keep it traditional with this build, so the flat top receiver had to go.

Pulling the barrel from the upper receiver was rather easy. My spanner wrench that came with my KJW fit perfectly and made the job sooo much easier. I am rather fond of JG’s one piece barrel. The Classic Army barrel is a two piece which I actually had to fix in place using Locktite. I kept the CA barrel because it allows for more space for a battery. I’m not rewiring this one to the rear. Everything slid into place nicely! The distinct muzzle is made by G&P. G&P does it differently because they actually have clockwise threads. Thus I had to get my hands on clockwise to counterclockwise adapter. Again, fitted with Locktite.

The hop up is a one piece plastic. I won’t be opening the gearbox up yet, I’m gonna run this rifle stock. I noticed that the barrel is bright blue. Struck me as attractive. The upper receiver of the JG has ears whereas the CA has tabs. The CA disassembles just by sliding forward just like the metal versions. The JG actually has to pivot and the ears have to slip over the gearbox. Not easy. So, off with the ears. I made an attempt to take the clips off and possible glue them to the upper receiver of the JG. Yeah, not happening. I was actually forced to use a Zip Tie as you will notice, to hold it in place. It sounds ghetto, but will have to do until I find a metal upper and lower M16 receiver. In any case, it works.

I matched the rifle with some 20 round style mid cap (130) magazines to give it a more classic look. They worked superbly!. As far as a battery goes, the gun sounds sluggish with an 8.4v Nimh. It came with one, but I’ll probably hang onto it for a few other rifles. I really don’t have any 9.6v batteries that will fit sooooo I went with a 7.2v Lipo. Its a 1600 mAH 20c battery and man does it rip. It pushes the rifle faster than a 9.6 NiMh but won’t totally abuse it. I see myself using this battery for a long time. My other rifles seem to like it as well. Its not AEG eater that a lot of people make it out to be, if you go with a lower voltage and lower discharge rate, it won’t abuse the rifle. It will save on space plus they are sooo much more efficient.

More news on that to come. Honestly, building this project is a fraction of the cost as would be to attempt to track down an actual Classic Army CAR-15 since they have been totally discontinued or dropping the cash for a G&P.

Chest Rig Set Up

2010-10-19T13:14:00.001-07:00

So to add to the rest of my equipment, I thought I might show you guys how to set up a very basic chest rig. These are incredibly easy and a quick way to look and feel high speed without making your wallet cringe. So after digging through some old toughboxes, I pulled out enough gear to throw something quick together.

To begin, find a simple chest rig from a tactical gear retailer. You can find them for dirt cheap. For instance, I picked up this Eagle Industries rig for about 40 bucks on sale. Its very basic and has four rows of PALS webbing which is plenty. Now, you can find them already pre-sewn, but PALS allows you to play around with pouch placement.

Pouch selection should be based on what type of weapon system you are using as well as mission. I’m using this one for an AK so I went with Blackhawk STRIKE AK pouches. Generally, I don’t like Blackhawk because I feel that their gear is poorly manufactured. However, they work so I’ll use them. I went with two double pouches for a total of four pouches capable of holding three magazines each. Yes, that is a LOT of ammo if I need it. Next, I went with a small utility pouch because it is necessary to carry more than just ammo onto the battlefield. I kept that on my right side. This is great for small maps, a notepad, compass, nightvision, etc. The last pouch is an MBITR radio pouch. This one is made by Tactical Tailor. I highly recommend them because their products are very practical. This one is adjustable for height and you have the ability to cover up the face and view it without having to remove it. If you are right handed, like myself, I highly recommend keeping it on your left hand side unless you want the antenna hitting you in the face.

Wearing the chest rig is pretty straight forward. The straps crisscross on your back and the lower strap goes across your back. I prefer wearing it rather high and centered because it actually takes a lot of weight off of my back. It gives it a nice balance.

As you can see, it compares to some of the original Chinese type AK chest rigs and Russian chest rigs developed in the 60’s. It was not uncommon to find these worn by the Special Operations Community during our involvement Vietnam. A lot of them were already using captured AK47s, so what better way to carry ammo than to use captured enemy equipment? These were also common to find used amongst some the insurgents that I faced in Iraq in 2004 and 2008. The last few are of me with one of my rigs that I was using in 2008.

In the end, they are incredibly simple and practical.

Navy Seal Deployment Kit

2010-10-12T15:35:00.000-07:00

Sooo, on my last post, I mentioned my particular interest in the swapable M4 upper receivers between a 10” and a 14.5” barrel length and optic depending on METT-TC. I really admired that type of quick adaptability. I made an honest attempt but I came across several problems:

1.) Trying to find TWO metal upper receivers.

-I could not find a second that was in any sort of working condition. So instead, what I came up with was just using an M4 barrel extension from a ECHO 1 416.

2.) Selector switch

-The selector switch was made of plastic and the cam would constantly strip out. I found one made of metal. Doesn’t act sluggish anymore.

3.) Jamming constantly

-I really need to get my hands on better hop-up buckings and units. The hop-up unit is a one piece metal. The bucking is stock. I had to pull out the tightbore barrel because the bucking wasn’t getting a proper seal and jamming up. I put a CA 6.08 and it works marvolously.

Onto the rifles. The CQB was built out of a D-Boys M4 RIS CQB. I picked it up from a co-worker of mine for a good deal. I used some extra parts that I salvaged from the 416 to complete the externals. The gearbox was built from scratch. Yes, I do have a lot of spare upgrade parts laying around to build gearboxes. Are they very good? Not really. I need to get better at that. Shimming takes a lot of practice. But they still work. This one is mostly Deepfire and ICS. A lot of components were picked up from work. The first few weeks, the rifle was nothing but problems. Jamming, low compression, no back spin, sluggish selector. I almost scrapped the project, but I wanted this way too bad. In the end, I got it working and it was proven under fire to hold up for an entire day. The accuracy issue will be addressed in time, but for now, it will work. I gave it a paint job and a few mock up parts to look good. I run it on a 9.6v carried in the rear of the gun. The sight is cheap, but it looks good. I had to dig around in a box full of RIS accessories that UTG had sent us to find the riser, otherwise I wouldn’t have been able to see over the front sight post. The back up sight is a chopped up carrying handle. ODA style LOL. Painting it was fun, keep your eyes open for future projects on that. The sling on it is a Blue Force Gear Vickers Sling. Donated by the US Army.

The second rifle is a KWA M4 RIS. Its very simple and straight forward. Its lipo ready and is incredibly reliable. I made a promise to myself NOT to tinker with this one. It will be left stock. I may toss a heavier spring in there and a better barrel, but that will be the extent of it. Right now, I have it set up for night fighting with the huge spotlight. it pushes 150 lumens. The sling is a Spec-Ops sling that was also donated by the US Army. The sight is a red dot made to look like an ACOG. I would eventually like to find an original ACOG Reflex sight to strap on the top. It does have a Marine Corp logo on the side and not KWA. This is simply because the gun is the Taiwanesse version purchased directly from the manufacturer and not through KWAUSA. I haven’t come up with a title other than Deployment kit. I would like to find a large Pelican case to haul both of them around in….

Future Projects! New Fall Line up!

2010-10-12T15:04:00.000-07:00

Ok, so you guys hear about this alllll of the time. I want to have this project gun or I want to have THAT project gun. So on and so forth. Well, I have finally picked up my next project! I’m diving into a more vintage aspect of firearms and combat. We’re looking into more late 1960’s early 1970’s Vietnam/Cold War era. On the list, we have an AK build, a CAR-15 build, and an AUG build. This also includes the style of gear as well as uniform. More to come on this.

The first project is the Steyr AUG. This rifle entered service in the late 1970’s and has built quite the reputation of reliability. This particular treasure, I found in our scrape yard section. The scrap yard is the most amazing place for airsoft. You never know what you’re going to find! Its like when a hot rodder takes a trip to the junk yard and finds that near mint condition flathead V8. This rifle right here, is a Classic Army Steyr AUG A2. The A2 designation just means that it has a flat top receiver rather than the typical built in scope. Some companies and airsofters refer to this as the “civilian” version. I don’t know how this came about because it has a full automatic mode. I’ve also seen AUG’s for sale on the civilian market with the scope (Or how the SIG 552 some how got tied to NAVSPECWARCOM, I blame airsoft for that lie as well). In any case, I picked this rifle up for next to nothing because it doesn’t not operate. I do not know the extent of the problem. I haven’t dove into it yet. I do know that it missing the gearbox back plate apparently. I don’t know what it looks like, but it seems to hold the motor in place. I don’t think this will be a hard fix. It also has a version three gearbox, this is news to me! I had no clue. AUG’s are very foreign to me, which adds to my excitement for exotic things! I would like to get this beast up and running in the next several weeks. I would like to turn it into an HBAR which is basically the heavy barreled support weapon. I like the flat top receiver because it will allow for a much wider variety of optics and options. The black will also get a paint job, although I am thinking about picking up a JG green plastic body. I’ve found most of the conversion parts already overseas, time for me to save up for that. This project has not been given a title yet, I’ll let you know when that comes about. I also dig how easy this rifle breaks down in just seconds. You can very easily remove the barrel and upper receiver with the push of a button. This will be great for swapping out the heavy barrel with the carbine length barrel.

With the upcoming release of COD: Black Ops, you can say that I took inspiration from MACV-SOG as well as Recondo and Long Range Reconnaissance Patrols. This should be interesting, as I have never worked on an AUG before. All I can say is thank God that the gearbox is nothing obscure.

My Gear

2010-09-12T15:11:00.000-07:00

Some of you have been curious as far as the type of gear that I skirmish with. Well, that is an incredibly broad topic. I have multiple set ups for multiple different games and uniforms and conditions. My first set up is my LCE. Its a standard Army issue pistol belt with ALICE type attachments. I have three magazine pouches, one holster, two canteens, and a buttpack. I like having the belt sit a little high at the waist because its easier to get in the prone and still reach for magazines. I save this kit for outdoor play. I usually use it with a Navy SEAL vest worn underneath. The vest is honestly only for looks. On the back, I put my Pipehitters Union membership logo. Its a lightweight set up that I have used consistently over the past year.

The second rig that I have is manufactured by SOTech out of Carson, CA. These guys make custom gear for operators. They are geniuses in innovation down there. This particular plate carrier is actually a two-piece set up. The chest rig is a Tomcat Mk 3. It can carry twelve M4 magazines double stacked across the front and the depths are adjustable depending on the mags that you use and can very on the weapon system. I’ve used AK and FAL mags with no issues! The second half of the unit is the Callahan Plate Carrier. The Tomcat weaves perfectly and intentionally right into the front. It can carry two large type SAPI plates. It fits comfortably and this was the plate carrier that I used on my second deployment to Iraq. Its incredibly tough and held up well throughout the deployment and through its continued use. I highly recommend SOTech if you can afford it.

The last rig is my new addition to my gear. It is an Eagle Industries Maritime CIRAS. It is incredibly comfortable. More so than the IOTV. Its very modular and can be adjusted for pretty much any situation. I intend on using this both indoor an outdoor. This is standard issue for SOCOM. I have moved most of my MOLLE pieces over from my Tomcat to this one. I have a shingle on the front that carries six mags as well as a double mag pouch on the side made by Paraclete. The admin pouch and utility pouch on the side are both made by TAG. The hydration carrier is made by Blackhawk. Blackhawk generally isn’t my first choice in gear because its made overseas and tends to fall apart. I prefer American-Made tactical gear. The smoke grenade pouch is also made by Paraclete. Because I can’t afford soft armor inserts, I used foam to fill out the vest so it holds its shape properly. There is nothing I hate more than a saggy vest. I haven’t gotten a chance to battle test this one yet, but as the days get cooler, expect to see me on the field more often. The flag is one that I had with me overseas. I still have my blood type and battle roster number listed on the back of my hydration pack as well. The red reflective tape is for our night games to help differentiate between teams.

As you can tell, I am a bit of a purist when it comes to gear. I am very willing to spend money on military grade equipment because there is the possibility my life may rely on it further down the road with my chosen career path and not airsoft. I hate cheap gear. I understand that a lot of players don’t have the money nor do they need military grade equipment, but I’ve grown so accustomed to it, that I will accept nothing less than the standard. I don’t judge other players for using lower costing replica gear, after all, airsoft is just a hobby and doesn’t demand what actually combat demands. I don’t blame any airsofter for going for deals on gear as long as they can make it work the way they need it to. Again, I’m a purist. I feel it also adds that much more to the Milsim environment as well.

M4 SOPMOD Deployment Kit

2010-07-21T23:09:00.001-07:00

So I've taken my inspiration for this from a picture I found of Navy SEAL M4 Deployment kit. It looked pretty sweet so it was hard to pass up. When its finished, it should look something like this:

I took my Echo 1 416 and scraped the outsides. It was a plastic piece of shit anyways and didnt really care for it anymore. I took the custom gearbox and got my hands on a D-boys M4 CQB-R. It has a metal upper and lower receiver which was a characteristic that I was looking for. there also happens to be the same model sitting in our maintenance bay as well that I intend on securing as well. What ended up happening, has been more than a pain in the ass as always. I put it together with no sweat last week, but when game time came around, it was too dark to adjust my hop up. its not as accurate as I would like it to be. New bucking on the way. Next issue, is that the select fire was giving me issues. It wasn't long before the stock part actually snapped off so I had to pull the selector switch off of the Echo 1. Not a problem. It worked flawlessly, until tonight, when the select fire cam somehow stripped and will no longer push the selector plate when the switch is pushed. I'm afraid that the D-boys select fire will have the same issue so I'm going to try to track down a JG M4 Lower to see if I can get that one to work as well. We'll see what happens.

The cool thing is, I found an M4 style barrel extension so all I truly need is the 10.5 upper that I can get from work and I'll be set. The only thing that it needs is a paint job and a few other accessories and I'll have a SOPMOD M4. I would like to track down a hard case as well to add to the authenticity. This one I am excited about, now if I could only get it to work....

How do I Zero and Airsoft Scope?

2010-06-28T16:39:00.000-07:00

Q: How do I Zero and Airsoft Scope?

A: I'm not sure exactly how powerful your rifle is, but you will need to know where your shots are hitting in order to make adjustments. If you can't punch through a target like a real bullet, you will need a knockdown type. I would suggest something like empty soda cans lined up on a rail or bench or something.
You won't need to clamp the rifle, just use a table or similar with a steady rest like a sandbag under each end of your rifle (or old socks, or bags of salt or rolled up towels etc.) this will allow you to sit and hold the rifle against your shoulder and cheek while steadying it with your spare hand.
Make sure you get your breathing right. Some people hold their breath to fire, some exhale and then fire, find out what works for you.

First adjustment should be windage. That is the side to side adjustment. Work out your approximate range and try some shots. If you are way too high or too low, just move the targets or your rest closer or further apart until you are landing in the vicinity. Now adjust the scope left or right until you are consistently either hitting the target, flying over or hitting under. The main objective at this point is to be hitting in a vertical line through the point of aim.
Once you have the left/right adjusted, move to the up/down. This is going to depend on how far your projectile can travel before it drops away too quickly. Fire test shots and work out how far you want to zero. When you work out your effective range, set up the targets and adjust up and down until you can kill every can that dares to stick it's head up.

That should be it for sighting in, but there is a bit more to hitting targets at different ranges. Once you are used to estimating the range you have your rifle zeroed for while in battle, you will snipe everyone easily enough. But you need to practice and get used to where the projectile hits at different ranges. Further away will be lower, closer will be higher, even closer will be lower again. This is why you probably shouldn't zero for maximum range, but somewhere around maybe 2/3 or 3/4 of maximum effective distance to give more flexibility at different ranges. Look up some stuff on bullet trajectory and you will see how the projectile passes through the point of aim twice as it moves through it's arc. It will help you to understand what you are doing.

Sounds complicated, but it's really pretty simple once you start doing it. Then practice, practice, practice, and always rest against something (like a tree) when shooting if possible, or sit/kneel or whatever, so you can brace your elbows on your knees. This will stop you from moving too much when firing. Practice squeezing the trigger instead of jerking it.

Well that's it for killing stuff 101, a little simplistic, but hope it helps.
Happy mayhem.

MP5 Deployment Kit

2010-06-08T17:59:00.000-07:00

So I got my hands on the ICS MP5 A5/SD6 Like I was I hoping I would. So far so good. Battery space is limited, however, I love being able to swap upper receivers in a hearbeat. I highly suggest doing this, its like buying two guns. Seriously. I put a Systema tightbore barrel in so tomorrow, we’ll see how that works out in the SD6. It was shooting a bit hot. CPP clocked it @ 390 consistantly. I don’t know how much I would trust that. However, they clocked my Mk48 @330 with no issue. Sooo maybe they’re right. Gun shoots hard and fast, but it isn’t very accurate. I don’t want to fuck with the insides too badly because I bought it for CQB games. Not sure what project is coming up next because G2 M16A3 is out of stock….

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“If war is hell, make sure your pitchfork is bigger than the Devil’s.”

2010-06-08T15:29:00.000-07:00

Ok, so after hanging out with a few friends up at Ft Irwin, I recently acquired a huge fucking knife. Its a SOG Tigershark Elite. This thing is practically a machete. I really have no use for it since I now have a tomahawk at my disposal for ripping apart bodies. But it looks scary. I took a few pictures of it if anyone is interested in it. 200 even because of the unused condition. I might budge if you have something cool to trade.

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Mk48 Mod 0: Pipehitter’s Support Weapon

2010-06-08T14:56:00.000-07:00

Its tottally been forever! Like a month! Almost! Although I doubt any of you were anxiously waiting. Anyways, this first set of photos is of my Mk48. Yeah yeah, I know, its an Echo 1. As much as I dislike the brand, its incredibly reliable. I kept a lot guys pinned down last sunday at California Paintball Park. Hopefully I’ll get to use it in an upcomming night game in Castaic (You know you want to attend. Just ask me for the details.) Anyways, The support weapon has pretty much stayed the same. I’m running G&P rails on it which were a pain in the ass to drill and mount…. And my EOtech holographic sight currently sits on top. It’s heavy as hell, but in a support role, its very very… well, supportive. Its a very concrete platform that ever team needs! The internals haven’t changed. I know its running an 8mm gearbox, and from what I hear, they’re lipo ready out of the box, but we’ll test that. I’ve also pulled off the front sight post and tossed a suppressor on the front of it. Contrary to popular belief, I’ve been running a suppressor on this gun about 2 years before Modern Warfare 2 ever came about so with that said, fuck you to everyone who thinks I mimic what I find I see in that goddam game. Enjoy!

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JG Sig 552

2010-05-11T16:52:00.000-07:00

It has been scraped. When I realized how much I can get it for at work, psh. I’ll save my money for an ICS any day of the week. I’ve also made up my mind and decided that I’ll go with the G&G M16A3. June should be a pretty interesting month. I have a game on Saturday over at Jungle Island, should be a good place to test the Mercian out at. I’ll keep you posted on how that turns out. 552’s gearbox will be going into one of the D-boys AK;s. i’ll have to rearange some wiring, especially with that Angel Mosfet, more soldering. Oh boy. shouldn’t be too rough. I’ll let you know how it goes. I’m also planning a trip to M&I this week. I need ammo cans.
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Kerberos and my Trench Gun

2010-05-08T14:54:00.000-07:00

So with summer, coming up, night games are going be a much more common occurence. I’ve given my Kerberos a bit of a touch up to really give my night fighting a much better edge. I’ve equipped it with an SRC tracer unit, a high powered green laser, and a 200 lumen UTG LED tactical light. I have yet to use it in a night game, but I can’t wait to! The laser is totally visible at night. So visible you can see the beam. Most people would call this a bad thing, but I feel that it will give my teammates a better idea of what the hell I am shooting at. The tracers will operate in the same manner. I’ve peppered them with non-glow in the dark bb’s so they don’t always give me away. Not that it matters because the tracer unit has a muzzle flash anyways. The tactical light will be great because it will be my flood light. It’ll ruin anyone’s night vision and may even shield those of us behind it because of the wash out it’ll create. I’m pretty excited to get a chance to use it!

The grenade launcher is probably my most under appreciated tool in my arsenal. Its also probably the most frowned upon device at most games. Its useful in the sense that can launch nerf style projectiles in an indirect fire method allowing kills while the enemy is behind cover. A lot of fields don’t take that into account. It also can project 204 bb’s in a shotgun style as well. Again, a lot of places don’t allow you to shower people. Some CQB fields don’t allow M203’s because “you wouldn’t use an actual grenade launcher indoors.” HA. Yeah right. I might not use it to clear a room, but if I have a M576 Buckshot round available, I’m going to use it to breach a door or clear a room. If I am taking fire from a room down a hallway, yeah, I’m going to land a goose egg in that room if I have to. Essentially, the M576 is the exact roll that I will be using it for. I plan on arguing this one to death. Eventually, I want to be able to carry 8-9 of these with my load out. Ever see Miami Vice? Jamie Foxx will have nothing on me.

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Merician: Final Outcome

2010-05-08T14:52:00.000-07:00

This is the Mercian in its final stage. As you can see, I have it fitted a few new cool toys. First, the 1000 round hi cap magazine. Its pretty rediculously large. Most of the games that I play don’t allow the use of Hicaps, but exceptions have been made. Anyways, it looks totally rediculous and It was a must have for me. Second, you can also see the Madbull Quick Detach Supressor. With it removed, the rifle is way compact. I could easily use it in any cqb field. The sight is more or less going to be used as a substitute for Binoculars. I can use it for a combat, but I would really prefer it to really see further. Its one thing that I wish that I had in the last game that I attended. Anything to give myself and my team a better sense of what is going on.

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Update of Planned Projects

2010-05-08T12:51:00.000-07:00

Yeah yeah, I know, I’m changing mind constantly regarding what I want to do. I’m ever so picky, I know. First things first, I am planning on an SMG. My ultimate goal would be to secure an ICS MP5SD6 with an A5 upper. This isn’t out of the question because we have them available at work. My next rifle after that will be an M16. I’ve already made up my mind. I did a lot of debating on this one. I am pretty torn between G&G or Classic Army. The Classic Army M16A4 has that awesome rail system that I would totally crave, but the G2 is more affordable. The problem I guess is that if I do go with the G2, I’ll have to find a forward RIS. Not a big deal I don’t think, and the money that I would spend on it would pretty much put it at the same cost as the Classic Army. Tough choice if you ask me.

Now, onto my current project: The JG Sig 552. It was my original high speed gun. I don’t need a high speed gun. In fact, unless it fires 1400 rounds per minute out of the box, then I don’t want to deal with it. I like my 552, however, its currently giving me issues. I am not getting proper compression from the cylinder so I swapped out the O-ring. The gear box locked up on me almost immediately. Sooo tomorrow, I have to dig into it and find out if its really going to be worth it. Now, I absolutely hate taking it apart. Disassembling that rifle is probably my least favorite thing to do. Its a pain in the ass and is incredibly over complicated. I try to avoid it as often as possible. With that said, I don’t know why I pulled it apart to begin with. The internal parts are holding up well even for as fast as its shooting. However, when I hooked it up to a Lipo battery, I got a boat load of feed issues. Guess I’ll be sticking with a 9-6. If I can get the gun running appropriately, I’ll keep it. However, if I am unable to accomplish this, I will scrap the rifle and install the gearbox into one of my AK’s. This might not be a bad idea because I’ll have a second spare gearbox available if I ever burn out my first. AK’s are incredibly easy to work on, and it would make a great CQB rifle if I can get it to work. If I decide to scrap it, then i’ll be purchasing an ICS Sig 552 Commando from work. And once again, my armsroom will be up, yet another rifle.

My other goal is to finally build an armsroom. I want it to look and feel like the armsroom that I ran in Hawaii. I want my desk/work bench and I want weapons racks that will allow me to store my guns in a secure and organized manner. I plan on building them out of wood and other shelving accessories. It will be a fun trip to to Home Depot.

Lastly, I plan on picking up a lot more ammo this week from work. A lot of .20g, some more glow in the dark, .23 and .25 and Gas. I would also like to get more ammo cans for organized ammo storage. M&I surplus, here I come!
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The Mercian.

2010-04-29T14:49:00.000-07:00

Project Complete. I finally finished the gun after it spending nearly 2 weeks in peices and multiple gearbox tear downs and rebuilds. I finally got a true taste for a properly shimming a gearbox. With some expert advice from a guy named Doritos, he suggest that I start with the bevel gear since it spins the fastest. Sure as shit, I mounted my more case with the motor half installed and shimmed it that way. Its so much easier when you have the pinion gears in full proper contact to base the rest of the gears off of. I wish I had thought of that first. Again, this project, blog, and hobby are all about learning. Hopefully those of you reading will pick up what I’m learning as well.

I also made a dramatic change. I kept the original gearset. I am not messing with the Systema Hylicals anymore. They’re damn near impossible to shim and lock up way too easy. With that said, I also was told by Doritos that JG’s XYT gear sets are extremely sturdy and reliable. too bad my XYT’s seem to have burrs and get stuck on each other. I reassembled the gun and its working well with an M120 spring. Its clocking in nicely at 365 FPS which is exactly what I wanted to accomplish. My last addition to the rifle was a QD Gemtech Suppressor. I picked it up from my friend Quick who traded a tac light for it. Fair if you ask me. With the scope and suppressor mounted, it is one mean looking rifle. I cannot wait to get it battle tested.

I’m also happy to report that the Kerberos rifle held up extremely well at Operation Hail Mary 2. The game had a great turnout. I ran with some really talented players and fought against some very well seasoned teams. However, I must say, we were pretty damn good at keeping their asses on the run even though I’m almost certain we failed at our objectives. In either case, it was still a great game. The ACR really did what I wanted it to do. It was shooting slow. They clocked it at 305 with .25g bb’s. I’m ok with that because they were straight as hell and were penetrating concealment. My biggest complaint was my magazines. I was using 68 round low caps. I was burning through ammo so fast. I would like to have at least 120 rounds per mag next time. It makes me consider switching over to the Magpul PTS midcaps, if they weren’t so damn expensive. I also really want to get a stiffer hop up kit as well. sigh…..

Mercian and Ares One.

2010-04-19T16:51:00.000-07:00

So there is a game next weekend that I am prepping for. I have been debating whether or not I’ll be taking Kerberos or Ares One. Ares had some issues last weekend at the shooting course. The night before, I dropped the 6.04 Deepfire 363mm barrel back into it. The 6.02 is way too tight and allows for no tolerance for dirt and will cause serious jams in the middle of an outdoor gun fight. I kept using the .28 gram bb’s but I got some serious double feeds! At least one jam per magazine…. not good. I dropped back down to .25g bb’s, but now its really emphasized the accuracy issues. I’ve got the Kerberos up an running to satisfaction. LOL when I first clocked it after all the upgrade work, it came in at 111 FPS. Yeah, my heart sank until I realized it was actually set to Meters and not Feet. A quick adjustment to feet revealed that it was actually 364. I slept easy that night. The Ares still isn’t battle tested which I have a serious issue with, but I’m sure there will be more events this summer that will get it baptized by fire. I think for the first real game of the season, an electric is the way to go.

I’ve also begun work on the Mercian today. Holy shit. Talk about a homemade abortion… Last week, I attempted to installed an ICS M120 spring inside the gun. The motor could hardly turn the gears. Pissed me off pretty bad, then I realized that the motor in the gun is a high speed motor and is really only meant for M100 springs or slower. Ok, not a big deal. So I pick up some parts from work to include a Systema Magnum motor and a Systema Helical torque up gear set. I was very hopeful at first. I installed the Systema gear set and shimmed it. They rolled smoothly, but felt really grippy. I didn’t want to take the risk of using them without them properly shimmed because of how friggin expensive they are. I degreased the stock gears and installed them back into the rifle with the Systema motor… It kept shorting out. It would either overheat the wires, battery, or the motor. I made the mistake of thinking that it may have been the motor, so I disassembled it and put it back together, didn’t solve the problem. But now I know how it put a motor back together. Well, I broke a screw on the motor so I’ve been forced to canabalize an existing Long Type Systema motor… I’m still on the look out for a replacment screw.

After this, I broke the gearbox down, installed the Sytema gears, and this time, I tested the gearbox with just the gears. The motor worked, the gears spun, everything should work, right? No, not at all. I put the M120 spring back in the gun and again, it barely turned the gearbox 6 times before locking up. Once again, I opened up the gearbox, swapped the spring for what I suspect could be a lighter spring, annnnnd finally it worked consistently. Well, put it all back together, yeah, didn’t work. Started burning up fuses. I tried bypassing the fuse, and instead, it fried a couple of connectors. After all of that, 6 hours down, I left the rifle alone.

Tomorrow, I retackle the rifle. I am replacing the conectors with deans connectors. I am once again, downgrading the spring. Hopefully I can track down the screw that I need. And hopefully by the evening, the rifle will be in good reliable working order! Wish me luck! I may need it! I am unsure of why its blowing fuses, there is no reason why that motor can’t pull that spring……
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Lessons Learned

2010-04-15T14:21:00.000-07:00

Sooo here are some lessons learned from the past few nights spent on the Kerberos Project…

1. Soldering irons are hot, don’t touch them.
2. Direct pressure stops bleeding, blood stains clothes.
3. 14 AWG wiring will not fit in a gearbox.
4. Its generally advisable to test the gun before you put it all back together.
5. Airsoft Press and Eddie are a great resource, even if both of them make you feel stupid.

I re tackled Kerberos last night and tonight. Yesterday, I rewired the gun. I made the smart move of pulling out that 14 gauge wire and replaced it with 16 gauge. I picked up the wire from a hobby shop in downtown Covina. The guys there seem to recognize me…. I really dig how RC car wire is so flexible. It makes it so much easier to fit nicely and manipulate. Deans plugs are great invention too. I’m slowly going to change over all of my batteries and guns to them.

Deans plugs give a much better surface contact which means a better flow of voltage which in turn makes the motor spin harder and faster.

I also did some hunting for some O-rings and found them at an auto parts store. The Systema Piston and cylinder had no compression. It was way easy to pull them around and manipulate them. I added an extra o-ring in hopes that It fix the problem. It did, but created a whole slew of others….

Even with the better flow of juice from the battery to the gun, it heated up quick which means it was drawing too many amps. I really didn’t think anything of it until this morning when I chroned the gun at work and came up with 190 FPS. Needless to say, I was pretty pissed and discouraged. After browsing the Airsoft Press Manuals, I discovered that if the O-ring is too large, then it will create too much friction and it will cause a severe loss in power.

With an M120 spring in hand, I pulled the gearbox apart only to find that the o-ring on the gun was all cracked and what not. Needless to say, it was replacd with a ring that fit. After the spring and o-ring swap, the gun is works at a very satisfying 360 FPS. Much better. Even with my Op coming up next week, I’m having a hard time figuring out which gun that i would like to take. I really want to take the Kerberos, but I really want to take the KJW out. I’m just hoping my KJ is shooting better than it was last weekend. Again, different story for a different night.

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Kerberos: Part 2

2010-04-12T15:50:00.000-07:00

The Kerberos rifle came together pretty nicely. However, it still has a lot of issues that need to be worked out. My goal is to be able to use this rifle in an upcomming even the weekend of the 23rd. I’m currently short on a rifle that I would like to use. My KJW M4 is ideal, but I came across mulitple problems during the 8 hour weapons package. I’ll go into detail regardint that in a little bit. I would love to bring the SA58, but due to the nature of the game, Hicaps are not allowed and for whatever reason, they don’t exist (funny note, when players demanded a midcap magazine instead of the 500 round hicap, what did Classic Army do? They came out with a 1000 round hicap, good one fellas). SOOOOO I’m bringing the Kerberos, assuming that I meet this deadline. I have no doubt that I will deliver.

When I left off, the Kerberos could hardly pull its spring back. I gave the rifle to someone I work with, Eddie, and he used his magic hands to get the rifle shooting. Not sure how he pulled that off. I clocked the gun at work and it was shooting at 300 FPS. Clearly, something is incorrect. I trust the equipment at work, so with that said, I’m started digging around to figure out a possible cause for such a severe drop in FPS. I got the rifle stripped down last night and got a plan of action going. I have a quick list of what modifications to address the problem at hand.

1. The gearbox needs to be properly shimmed.
2. The wiring needs to be replaced with low resistance lower gauge wire and Deans plugs.
3. The compression inside the piston needs to be fixed.
4. A MOSFET will be installed as well.
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A Taste of Things to Come

2010-04-08T16:49:00.000-07:00

So I’m always looking for inspiration for projects and future ideas. I have a few in mind that I am tossing around right now. I feel like extending my blog past airsoft into gear and those nifty tips and tricks that we learn from experience. I was thinking about a few other guns that I would like to add to the collection as well as a focus on some that I already have. I have an M249 that looks like a Mk48 that could really use some work. I also have an MP5K PDW that’s been totally taken apart probably beyond putting it back together. I can live with that, however, it would be nice to get another SMG in the house. I have a bunch of MP5 mags that need a home otherwise they’re just taking up space. So add a MP5A4 to the list. We could even go as far as adding an SD upper, sooooo now we’re looking at an ICS MP5. Lets go ahead and add a Steyr AUG A2 HBAR to that as well as an L85 or an L86 LSW. The list goes on…

I also want to start putting together videos regarding equipment and how to properly wear your gear based on my own experience with actual weapons and 2 tours of combat in Iraq. Not what Airsoft GI’s Tim says you should do. That guy is an idiot and wouldn’t know the proper place for a radio headset, dump pouch, or how to pack a fucking rucksack. I bet he doesn’t even know what a tie down is. He is however, the kind of guy that will carry a GPS unit with no extra batteries or a compass. And if he had a compass, his rifle would be slung in front of him (if you don’t know why you shouldn’t do this, go ask your teamleader).

With that said, I am doing this for you guys. Yall need to learn proper load outs and to avoid wearing a ghillie suit to CQB fields.

To Do List

1. ICS MP5A4 w/ SD Upper
2. M249 Mk48 Mod 0
3. Steyr AUG A2 HBAR
4. ICS L85/L86 LSW
5. Classic Army M16A4
6. JG Sig552 Rebuild/Refurbish
7. Build a new LCE/LBE
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New AEG Project Announced!

2010-04-08T14:15:00.000-07:00

I feel like I’m going through a bizzare eurotrash phase. Maybe just tired of the “I’m delta force because I wear a plate carrier and love multicam” and the kids that mimic everything they see on Modern Warfare 2. Like carrying glow sticks but having no idea what they’re used for on the objective. WIth that said, I’ve always been fond of the Special Air Service’s ability to really just take advantage of discretion and really just fade into the background.

Sooo with this rifle, I’ve decided to build off of a rifle that was selected to be the “right arm of the free world” aka, the FN FAL. Man, what a sweet platform right? Now, granted, it might not be as versitile as an M4, but Its not like I need it to look super fancy for it to be unique and still get the job done.

So the rifle I went with was the Classic Army SA58 Carbine. Out of the box, nicest AEG that I have. The upper and lower receiver are built sturdy and have DSArms trademarks all over it. Oh yes, that is the same DSArms that based out of Barrington, IL. I figure what better way to represent the dirty six thirty than running a DSArms SA58 (even though they’re 847…no worries…)

Even with a 10.5 inch barrel, out of the box, its the most accurate rifle I own. Pie tins at 130 feet have nothing on me. I’m actually curious to see what happens when I switch up the inner barrel. I’m not as worried as I am curious.

Enjoy the photos, the rifle will more than likely pick up the role of DMR. Although I really wish there were mid caps out there for this one, I’m going to have to find a way around that even if I’m forced to build my own somehow….? I like to think I’m pretty clever.

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Fist Full of Death: Part 3

2010-04-07T18:37:00.000-07:00

Great news! So Rhino Airsoft finally shipped out the Magpul PTS FMG9’s! I received mine yesterday from the post office. I pretty much left work 15 minutes early to get there 3 minutes after they closed and unlike Moses’ experience, the guy actually helped me. The gun comes in a pretty straight forward Magpul box and includes instructions along with some simple replacement parts.

The beauty of the instructions is that they are extremely well translated. More so common with the more expensive airsoft products, they probably have excellent support as well. Either way, everything was an easy step by step process to prep the upper receiver and fit it into place. You pretty much have to replace the selector switch and the air nozzle. For a minute there, actually, for almost an hour and a half, I was convinced that it was made incorrect because I couldn’t get the air nozzle to seat correctly in the slide and hop up. I couldn’t figure it out to save my life, I must have jumped back and forth 3 or 4 times testing both nozzles to see what was up. I used my G17 as a model and it took all of 7 seconds to realize that I had to return springs on the nozzle on the wrong side…. So when I got corrected, the FMG9 operated immediately with no issue.

I attempted to installed a Hurricane Recoil spring, but totally forgot to use the magazine that has the high flow valve with it and started having feed and short stroke problems. Once again, go Jon.

It unfolds easily into operation and has no safety whatsoever, I guess that’s because they designed it to get down to business immediately because in the quarter second it takes to go safeties off, you’ve already wasted too much time. Works for me. The handle makes it easy to have something to grab onto when you unfold it so I don’t see my self replacing it. However, It does need a light of some sort because there is a rather large gap up front. It feels sturdy and is made from a reinforced ABS plastic, I don’t see parts breaking anytime soon.

All in all, its really everything I wanted it to be. I’m looking forward to using it on the field. The only problem that I am coming across is the 50 round KWA extended mag. Because its sooo huge, the cool down period is extremely quick making those last 10 rounds really hard to squeeze off. Thats ok though, 40 rounds is still plenty! Enjoy!

Here it is in operation. Yes, I know, my backyard looks like Jurrassic Park.

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My Airsoft Origins

2010-04-07T14:07:00.000-07:00

Found these from WAAAAYYYY back in the day. Yeah, I’m too embarrassed to post the rest of them. The fact that they are all spring guns alone is way too much. Everyone has to start somewhere right? We used to have the best place to play. I would really enjoy going back there to play again. I have enough guns to go around. I really am curious as to how much it has changed.

Here’s grid in case you were curious: 41°46’31.16”N, 88°14’8.96”W

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Fist Full of Death

2010-04-05T14:24:00.000-07:00

My FMG-9 is being held at the post office, I get to pick it up after work today! Iechyd da!

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Jon Builds His Own ACR: Part 2: Kerberos

2010-03-29T16:12:00.000-07:00

So its official. The ACR now has a name. I’ve decided to label it Kerberos which was derived from Cerberus. Cerberus is Greek in origin and is the name of the three headed hound that guarded the entrance to Hades, according to mythology. Sounds good to me.

So once again, the gun gave me a few issues. I actually got off to a good start this morning while working out in the lab. I got both rifles working. I have been using Modify M100 and M120 springs, which Airsoft GI advirtises as 330-340 and the second as 360-380. Now, it could very well be my chronograph, but I clocked one gun at 289 and the second at 320. My first guess is that my chronograph was fucked up, or I’m getting poor compression. I thought for sure it wasn’t the compression because I’m using a Systema piston head, cylinder, and cylinder head. I’m also running a Deepfire cylinder head, Guarder air nozzle, and an ICS piston in the other. I went and clocked a stock Dboys AKS74U and came up with 350 FPS. Very confused at this point. Reclocked them again and came up with 335. I’m also using a tight bore barrel as well in the Kerberos. With that said, I left the 416 alone because it was working just fine.

Now, remember how I stated that I wanted the ACR to be shooting hot? Well I found the old spring from the 416 that had it shooting at 410 FPS. I placed it in the ACR and also corrected the select fire ( supposed to operate in full and semi now) and was given a whole new set of problems. The motor, which is a Systema Magnum, couldn’t pull back the spring. I find that very odd. I was not pleased with this. I tried four different batteries that operate other rifles just fine, but couldn’t get this one to work. Now, keep in mind I was using 8-4 and a 9-6 NiMH and NiCd type battery. I have one theory, that they aren’t discharging the amperage that I need them too. Which makes me want to take a look at possibly switching over to Lipo for the ACR. Only problem is that a Lipo battery could eat my gun alive. I am very content with the parts and I do believe my gun is heavily upgraded enough to handle the stress, but I truly do feel that its time to slowly change over.

I gave the Kerberos a nice Earth toned color and added the mock laser as well as my beefy green laser. You can actually see the beam at night! Great during the day as well. I also co witnessed it with my sight. My intention is to have this rifle set up for night fights. I am currently attempting to track down some night vision for it ;)

It has great feel to it. A very decent weight and I have more plans for parts to add to it. Pretty much all of the Magpul PTS products. I would like the Angle For Grip and the Back Up Iron Sight.

http://www.airsplat.com/Items/AC-UP-MGP-AFG-B.htm

http://www.airsplat.com/Items/AC-UP-MGP-MBUSB.htm

Its a work in progress.

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Jon Builds An ACR of His Own: Part 1

2010-03-27T16:11:00.000-07:00

This story begins with a scrapyard pile of guns at the warehouse. Scrapyards to me are like flea markets, swap meets, and antique shops. You have no idea what kinds of treasure you can find. Two that I found in particular were two China guns. A JG Sig 552 and a Dboys SCAR. This story is about the SCAR, not the 552, the 552 I’ll review later.
it wasn’t until recently that I took an interest in my SCAR. I picked it up out of inspiration to make a Masada of my own. In case you don’t know, the Masada is a rifle that was designed by the AR15 accessory company Magpul. Magpul could not manufacture it by any means of their so they outsourced it to Bushmaster and Remmington. All three of them came up with a pretty revolutionary design. Its got nearly every Magpul accessory and is able to swap barrel lengths in a manner of minutes from 10 to 14.5 to 16 and 18 inches. A length for every application! I have now decided that I am going to do this too.
The Masada ACR has a very unique look. There are a handful out their for airsoft, but good luck trying to find one. More than likely, its ended up in the hands of some condecending brat. Fortunately, its not the gun that makes the airsoft player.The closest thing that I’ve come accross is the SCAR. A unique gun in itself, I figured this would be the best platform to build off of. Its got a short 10 in barrel, and a version two gearbox. It disassembles way quick, but the hardest part will always be pulling the gear box from the lower receiver. It has a ambidextrous select fire which makes it damn near impossible to put in and pull out. The gears have to line up perfectly or else they will not properly mesh and now it won’t go from semi to full or safe to semi. Very hard to work with….
To combat this, my rifle will be totally personalized for me. By that I mean it will be set up for a right handed shooter by pull the selector on the left hand side. Problem solved. The other issue that I came accross is this: the Deep Fire gearbox. Its reinforced and mostly compatable. Everything fits and everything that doesn’t fit was adjuted. The safety function is a tight squeeze. That I was unable to pull off, but I have some ideas. The problem is that there is not enough room for movement, so once you switch to safe, there’s no coming off it. The return spring to push the Safety off just isn’t strong enough. So I removed temporarily. Next problem? It now does not have a safety feature and always operates in full auto. In some eyes, that’s not bad, but I would still like to be able to walk on to a field with this. I fitted the gearbox with some 7mm Modify Bearings. So long 6mm nylon bushings. I’m also running an ICS standard ratio gears. So far so good. I got to thinking, where do I want to take this gun?
I want it to be versitle and I want it tough, reliable, and hard hitting. Rate of fire won’t be focused on so much for this one. This isn’t my racing gun. I would like it to be shooting around 430 FPS which will remind people that I am serious. The things I am upgrading are rather simple. The gun is already apart so I figured its time to add some new stuff. Here goes the list: A Deep Fire 6.04mm Tightbore Barrel, a Deep Fire Nylon Piston, a Systema piston head and cylinder head, a Deep Fire spring guide, and finally, an Area 1000 teflon coated cylinder. Tomorrow, my gun gets a makover starting with the paint job.
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Ares One: Part Three

2010-03-23T18:10:00.000-07:00

My rifle is truly turning into the project gun that I want it to be. I really got the chance to break my rifle in over at Code:RED airsoft park in Colton, CA last weekend. It was eye opening how much work I had ahead of me. I was watching my rounds go alll over the place and my consistency was all but poor. I realized that my rifle was not set up for the fight that I walked into. A lot of induviduals on one team practicing Modern Warfare 2 tactics hosing people on full auto and cheating. I’m pretty much ready to sell that game on the basis of the bad habits that it creates alone. I also came to the conclusion that people need to be trained. Well trained. But that’s another story for another day. I did get my far share of confirmed kills that day on top of meeting several really cool guys that I am truly looking forward to playing with and against in the future! CROW and SS03 to call out some names.

After cruising around a few forums, the same conclusion was drawn, 12 inches by 12 inches at 120 feet is demanding way too much. I guess I’m aiming to high. When I measured out 120 feet in the backyard from my firing position, I realized how exagerated my expectations were. Adjustments were made and compensated and this is what it pretty much where I left off…..

I jumped up to a 480mm 6.02mm Deep Fire TB. I didn’t see much improvement. In fact, It was hardly noticable. So this lead to confussion and I finally gave heavier weight bb’s a try. I brought home a package of .28g Airsplat brand Bio BB’s. This seemed to work like a charm! Almost immediately, I noticed some serious improvements. I really started to regain my hopes that 12x12 isn’t really out of the picture!

I figure a pie tin is a good sized target and jungle of a backyard provides sooo much cover and shooting positions, although, I do have to make sure that nothing gets in the pool…

My Ares One project is close to being complete, but if you know me as well as some do, you’ll know that its never complete and there is always more than can be done. I won’t push the limits to far as to sacrifice my reliability, but I will be a force to be reckoned with.

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Handful of Death: Part 1

2010-02-24T17:08:00.000-08:00

Ok, so some of you may have heard me ranting about the Magpul FMG-9. Basically, it looks like something totally innocent, and then unfolds into a fist full of full automatic fury. Its built around the Glock 18 which the twin of the Glock 17 model, but full automatic. beautiful. So, long story short, Magpul abandoned their FMG-9 and instead passed it off to Magul PTS (Professional Training and Simulations) which is Magpul’s airsoft branch. Soooo this has lead to a Magpul PTS FMG-9 in development and set for a release in early March along with a large variety of other Magpul PTS products specifically for airsoft including but not limited to angled foregrips, rail covers, stocks, back up sites etc. And possibly a Masada. More to come on that…. So more about this FMG-9… Its pretty much built off of the upper slide and barrel of the KSC/KWA Glock 18. Well if anyone is aware, there has been a rediculous shortage of Glock models on the airsoft market due to legal issues. Its screwed over a lot of companies out of getting Glock replicas and parts, etc. (I don’t know why Glock won’t jump on the airsoft train). Good luck trying to track down a KSC G18 if you want one for this…. Well, this is where working at an airsoft retailer has its advantages. It took 10 minutes from my lunch break to go out to the warehouse and track down used broken G18 that is in no condition to be sold or used as spare parts (as we have been out of Glock replicas forever). I took it home with a 50 round magazine and after a little inspection to my pleasure, it works. In full auton only. Semi is not happening. I don’t think this is an issue. I now have a donner Glock that I got for a steal of a price, normally 180, I got it for well well well below cost. It’ll do.
With all of that said, I have my Pre-Order on my Magpul PTS FMG-9. I’ll be posting pictures this weekend.
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Ares One: Part Two

2010-02-23T16:02:00.000-08:00

Ok, so it was back to the lab again. After a recent epic fail last weekend, I was really forced to start from scratch. While attempting to zero my rifle, a bb got jammed in the barrel and the back pressure actually managed to shoot the barrel out the front of the gun. I was actually more entertained and hardly upset. Call it an excuse to break the gun down and find out what went wrong. So this previous weekend, I finally found time on sunday night to really dig in.

I ordered my parts from www.cradleairsoft.com and they finally showed up in the middle of the week. Installation was way easy but I feel after installing the new piston, that I’m not getting as much compression that I need. Even with no added washers, I saw a serious lack in power. Now keep in mind its only 50 degrees out and my mags were cold. more than likely, the conditions were not ideal enough to find my happy medium. I don’t want my rifle overpowered like it was before, but not underpowered either. Here is the good news, the velocity reducer does its job. With two washers, I was able to get my rifle shooting 290 with .25g bbs and 305 with .20g bbs. Ideally, I want to stick with .25g, but nearly ever field around here chrones with .20’s. The good news is that I can pretty much do it on the spot. I really need a good reliable chronograph. Something that will last and isn’t as touchy as mine.

So with the temperature in mind, 410-415 isn’t bad. I still like knowing that my rifle shoots harder than that. I wish that gas could be more effecient and dependable. Thats the one thing that electric has on me, is that the rifles are much more consistant. I have my electric back up rifles, and I will bring them when needed, but they will never be my first choice.

With all of that said, I wish it was warmer out and I wish the days were longer so I can work on my accuracy issue. With some guidance from Travis Humble from Cradle Airsoft, I discovered a page on the Arnie’s Airsoft Forum that had a genius idea: use two layers of heat shrink to wrap around the part that pushes down on the Hop-Up bucking to push down further. AMAZAZING. So once again, I went to work. All the while my new piston is setting in the LockTite. It worked, I mean, it fit with no issue. I just really wish there was more daylight to find out if the combination of a backspin created by a heavier hop up, a tightbore barrel, a heavier weight .25g bb, and the reduction in velocity, are enough factors to take into consideration when making an accurate god of an airsoft rifle.

Will post pictures.

—————————————————————————————————————-

Fixed my locked up D-Boys RK03, it was as easy as pushing up on the anti reverse lever. Also managed to finally install my Tapco Galil front handguard. Took some more dremel work, but once again, I got a square to fit inside a circle.

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Other Current Goings On…

2010-02-16T19:01:00.000-08:00

Some of you may have heard, but I’ve pretty been pulled into an airsoft/paintball promotion team called Army of Six. Army of Six sponsors airsoft and paintball events all over Southern California, they’ve organized some of the biggest games with some of the biggest turnouts for numbers. Well, they’ve picked me up for an instructors slot. They’ve ventured into tactical training. Not to teach kids how to rob banks, but how to shoot right to improve their airsoft game and to better work as a team. We already have a lot of credentials amongst the 9 of us, between decades of paintball and airsoft not to mention the ones in the group with military experience: a few Marines, an Airborne Ranger, and an Army Infantrymen (me!).

To take our training to the next step, and to get everyone on the same page, we were able to contact Monte Le Gould of IMTT. He is the Director of Training for one of the most formidable training companines out there. It is owned and ran by men who have well over 100 years of combined Special Operations experience, not to mention the countless years of Law Enforcement and SWAT as well. Its amazing. Monte got us together for a weekend in Victorville to get us set up to be qualified instructors for the IMTT method. We pretty much crossed over into the threshold of operator class training and it only gets faster with less drag from here!

Our weekend was a success. I learned a lot. Even as a seasoned veteran with hands on room clearing/building to building gunfighting, it was overwhelming how much I wish I had known prior… Now, I am not getting into any details as far as what I learned (I could teach you, but you’d have to pay me), but I will say this, when our classes really kick off, there will be an elite member of airsofters on the field that will change the face of the game forever.

Our team still has a lot to learn and a lot to practice together and we have more instructional courses coming up over the next few months, but there isn’t a doubt in my mind of how epic this will be!

With work….

Work is good and busy. I’m still posting new reviews every week of airsoft guns. Nevermind that my name is Jake, I figure it would be less obvious than if I went with Elwood.

http://www.airsplat.com/airsplat-on-demand.htm

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My Weapons Listing…

2010-02-16T18:59:00.000-08:00

Ok, if any of you were curious as to what my airsoft collection looks like:
1.) Echo 1 HK416 AEG
2.) Boyi Dboys SCAR-L Tan AEG
3.) JG Sig 552 AEG
4.) Echo 1 M249 Mk48 Mod 0
5.) Echo 1 M203 RIS
6.) Boyi Dboys AK74 Paratrooper
7.) Boyi Dboys AKS74U
8.)Echo 1 MP5K PDW
9.) KJW M4A1 Tanio Koba Gas Blowback
10.) KSC G17 Gas Blowback Pistol
11.) KJW 1911 Tactical OD Gas Blowback
12.) Tokyo Marui HK USP AEP
13.) DE HK USP AEP
Ugh, I wish I could remember all of the upgrades that I’ve done to each but I can’t, so I’ve marked the most heavily upgraded in bold. I’m almost ashamed for posting this because it just makes me look that much more losery. Yes. Losery.
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My First Project: Ares One

2010-02-16T17:55:00.000-08:00

Ok, as some of you know, I have quite the addiction to airsoft. I have had multiple projects from high rates of fire to velocity non of which have really gotten me anywhere. My addiction to high rates of fire made me obliterate two guns so now I’m left with a clean slate to begin what I’ve just dubbed as Ares One. Its not as spectacular as it sounds, and it really only proves that I am more nerdy than I should really admit.
My newest rifle is a KJW M4A1 Tanio Koba Gas Blowback rifle. It operates on Green Gas and is one of the most affordable and not to mention reliable GBB airsoft rifles on the market today. It clocks in at upwards of 470 FPS out of the box with .20g bb’s. Its proven to be my newest mistress as well….
PART 1: The Accuracy Issue
The gun comes with a 10 inch inner barrel. At 100 feet, my rounds will go anywhere. This is unacceptable. I thought my hopup was fucked so I took it to work and had one of my techs look at it. He couldn’t figure what was up, he pulled apart a working one and came to the conclusion that mine had a cracked upper receiver. No bueno….
I was able to go to my manager May and ask her to see if she could place an order with KJW for some parts for me. Sure enough, the next day she asked me how much I needed and when. Bless that woman’s heart. She is a saint. She totally got a new upper receiver ordered for me as well as two full hop up sets.
I figure I’m pushing too much power with a barrel that will provide little no stabalization with a round (.20g) that is too light weight. So I spent a few weeks hunting down a tight bore barrel. I found one at Tokyo Model Company for $40, but after weeks of no replies to my order or my emails, I said fuck it and got my dirty little fingers on a Deepfire 6.04mm AEG Tightbore 363mm Length barrel. Basically a full length 14.5 inch M4 barrel. Next came modification. It took a little dremmel work, but I pulled off with little effort. It fit perfectly. I couldn’t believe that I pulled it off the first time! The bucking and hop up fit like a condom! Ok, testing. The 4.5 inches didn’t do much for the accuracy. Lame. Still all over the place at 100 feet. Now, the velocity is something to be reckoned with.. I’m shooting 475 FPS with .25g bbs. Faster with heavier ammo! So some good came out of the first step.
I still think I have a serious hop up problem. I am still waiting on my parts. Update to follow on that. I have a few more theories that I would really really like to test. I want to try a full 20 Inch tightbore barrel. I want to try heavier bb’s, .35g maybe heavier if I have to. I’m also going to try a velocity reducer to see if reducing the gas will have a positive effect on my accuracy issue. I want to eventually set up two tightbore barrels so I can quick drop in my 20 inch and go! I can then cover it up with a mock suppressor!
The whistles go wooooo! wo woooooo!
I will post pictures as I upload them. Have they made a bluetooth capable camera yet?
Update: Pictures now up:

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Airsoft Playing Tips For Clearing a Room

2010-01-13T00:31:00.000-08:00

In airsoft battles, you may encounter separate rooms that may have enemy soldiers in them. These enemies may be sniping from a window or just waiting around the corner for you to come in. It is important to be able to safely enter that room and neutralize your enemy before he gets to you. There are many ways to do this. Here are some tips for safely clearing out a room.

If you are working with a teammate or many teammates in your airsoft team, they should be supplying cover fire for you in all directions. Before you enter the room, stop and listen for enemy activity in there. Quickly open the door and begin your attack. You should have a strategy worked out before hand. You need to know who is going to take what direction and what weapon will be the most appropriate.

Airsoft M203 grenade launchers can be very effective at neutralizing multiple enemies. These attach to almost any M4 or M16 Airsoft Rifle. The grenade shells can launch 18 to 168 airsoft bb's in one shot. The actually grenade never leaves the launcher. These grenade shells are powered by green gas. You should burst into the room and fire the grenade in the direction of the highest concentration of enemy soldiers. You can also use a window if there is one.

An airsoft grenade such as the ICS or Deep Fire Grenade Launcher are very useful for clearing out a room. Crack the door and roll one of these in and your sure to get a kill or two. Imagine a that there is an airsoft sniper up in a second floor room shooting out of the window and you can't shoot him. Toss an airsoft grenade up there and light him up! Some airsoft grenades have powder packs in them. The powder acts as smoke and can confuse the enemy while you are laying heavy fire into them and they can't see you. You can also consider Airsoft Flash Bangs, these are a great distraction device.

Landmines and claymore are a great trick to picking off the enemy as they enter or leave a room. Set up a claymore at the door. Throw a powder grenade in the room through a window and force the enemy out. When they leave, the claymore will blast 100 bb's at them. This technique works like a charm.

CQB Radio - Episode 9: Party Like It's 2009

2009-12-02T12:23:00.000-08:00

http://www.apple.com/search/ipoditunes/?q=cqb+radio

and we're available on the Libsyn site at:

http://www.cqbradio.libsyn.com/

Just a few guns to look over - part of Ox's assortment of weapons.

Contact CQB Radio on email at CQBRadio@gmail.com. We're also on Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, and Skype - all under the name CQBRadio.

CQB Radio - Episode 9: Party Like It's 2009
-Introduction and Welcome
- Word on the Street: The latest New England airsoft events
- Assessment: Accessorized Guns - Jing Gong 416, CYMA M14 Scout, King Arms SIG 556 HOLO, and UTG M4 Commando
- Tricks of the Trade, Part 1: Carl of Airsoft Innovations
- Tricks of the Trade, Part 2: Ronald of NL Airsoft
- Loadout: Batteries
- Retailer Review: Kenneth Wu, CEO/Founder of Airsplat
- Just In: New items on the market
- Closing

An Introduction to Airsoft-based Tactical Training

2009-05-15T12:00:00.000-07:00

A couple of weeks ago, I had the opportunity to hook up with Roy Mobsby of Delta Team 3 - a former British Army small arms instructor who served many years as a Grunt in the Parachute Regiment and is also a PSD operator and trainer. So on a nice wet soggy Sunday morning in late November I trekked down to Sopley Camp near Bournemouth to see how a local martial arts club came to terms with some milsim training of a different sort.

Given the limited opportunities for real shooting in this country, and the restrictive gun laws, it was no surprise that most of these lads had never handled or shot a gun before – or even been trained how to shoot. So first on the agenda – after they’d warmed up by knocking each other around a bit – was a basic introduction to weapons functioning, feeding and handling; various shooting positions; and finally, BBs downrange for some target practice on the indoor range. All of this was conducted using milsim airsoft weapons.

After a lunch of grilled burgers and bacon rolls, we all got tooled up for the outdoor tactical lessons and some fast-paced mil-sim, force-on-force CQB skirmishing. With myself and the lead martial arts instructor as assistants, Roy showed the group just how difficult house-to-house fighting can be – as the 3 of us were able to repeatedly eliminate or tie-down a force 4 times our size in numbers. But after several more attempts, and getting a feel for the layout of the buildings, the lads were able to maneuver through our blind spots and take us out by assaulting both ends of the building at once – whilst having over-watch elements in place at the front and rear.

But the tables were most definitely turned when it came time for the lads to try and flush me out of the specially-adapted “killing house”. This building is the old enlisted men’s mess hall – but all of the windows and front door have been boarded up so that virtually no natural light penetrates the interior, and the only way in is via the back, kitchen door (simulating a “mouse-hole” through the wall). The lads rather quickly learned that a lone gunman can put a stop to a much larger force – especially if he sticks to the darkest shadows and never shoots twice from the same spot. Several also learned the hard way about the importance of tactical use of a torch / flashlight – as every flick of the switch was greeted with a well-aimed burst of automatic fire. Eventually, they got the hang of working in pairs, communicating well between each other and moving in a coordinated advance – until at last they had me trapped in the far corner, and going out in a suicidal blaze of glory was the only option left.

Overall, the thing that impressed me the most was seeing how a bunch of guys who were total newbies to everything airsoft and tactical became quite passable airsoft players by the end of the day – and in fact were more tactically-proficient than a lot of milsim airsofters I see who’ve got ALL the “right” kit, but no idea really on how to use it. So that just leaves me to ask in conclusion: What do you want to be? A poser, or a fighter?

Ambushes & Counter-Ambushes

2009-04-10T08:58:00.000-07:00

All information below is Copyright U.S.A.S.O.C. - The Magazine 2008; no use without granted permission may be used.

Photo Credit: S.N.A.F.U.

We’re back with one of our hit series – “Tactics” – and ready to bring you a much talked about tactical subject: ambushes and counter-ambushes. As with all of our tactics, there are as many ways to conduct them as there are people out there, so take what you want from them, and through the rest away. I’m merely listing out the “theories”, if you will, that have worked for me and my unit in the past, successfully. I’ll be discussing, and diagramming, different types of ambushing techniques and counter-ambushing techniques throughout this article; so with the introduction out of the way, let’s jump right into the topic.

Classic “Linear” Ambush:

The classic “linear” ambush is a quick, easy, and effective ambushing technique; not many people are required for this type of ambush, and it can be set up rather quickly. As you can see in the photo above, the blue team has set up along a road, trail, etc and have waited until the enemy force, the black team, has crossed into their fields of fire.

Some things you’ll want to keep in mind: if possible, you want to have some kind of rear-guard to cover the team’s flank in case of enemy scouts, or in case the enemy doesn’t take the path that your team believes it is going to take. Also, the last guy in the ambushing team (in our example, it would be the far-left blue teammate) and the point-man (far-right blue teammate) should initiate the ambush once given a signal by the team-lead. Why the rear-guard and the point-man? Think of it as two walls closing in on the black team. If you cut off the way they came from and the way they are advancing, the black team is pretty much stuck for a few seconds; during those few seconds, the entire blue team opens up on them and can quickly eliminate them – simple, yet if done right, highly effective.

Where can this ambush be set up? Practically anywhere – ambushes don’t always have to be set up on a road, trail, etc – although, those are the best options in most circumstances. As long as your team has more cover then the enemy and can get a good field of fire on the enemy, then you are good to go. One thing to keep in mind when picking an ambushing spot – a good military friend of mind used to tell me, “If the enemy can’t get into your location, then you’ll, also, have a hard time getting out.” The point of that – don’t pick a location that you and your team can’t easily get out of. Lastly, people…most players out there are LAZY. After a few hours in the woods or desert, a good number of them get lazy and don’t remain focused; they see a trail that could take them to the next objective or whatnot, and they take it. Bingo – all your team has to do is get into the right position along the trail, and you should be good to go. Oh – and as a reminder…don’t become lazy; it’s a fast-track to getting spotted or killed.

Counter-Ambush to the “Linear” Ambush:

Now for a QRD (Quick-Reaction-Drill) for the “Linear” ambush. Alright, your team just got ambushed...what are you going to do? Well the first thing the TL (Team-Lead) should have done before the mission started was to have a QRD procedure if an ambush was to happen to his team. One of the best bets that your team will come out alive is to have a good QRD – that and mental toughness.

What I, and my unit, like to do is the Australian Center-Peel. It’s a successfully and fast drill that gets your team out of a bad situation in little to no time. I’ll lay it out so you can see how this type of reaction is done.

You’re team needs to be in a “zig-zag” formation – basically like a long chain of “Z’s”. Note – completing an Australian Center-Peel is somewhat difficult when being ambushed in the “Linear” formation, but it works flawlessly if you and your teammates are in sync.

Ok – your team is patrolling. All is quiet – then “crack-crack” – contact is made. In this situation, we’ll say that the ambushing team had bad aim and didn’t hit their targets. The red, blue, and green units fire together (see photo on above page); after a few rounds, the red unit pulls back through the center of the team and sets up back behind the black unit – far enough away so he can continue to provide suffice fire-power. The green unit then pulls back, taps the blue unit on the shoulder letting him know he’s the “last-man”, and circles around behind the brown unit. Then the blue unit turns 180 degrees, taps the brown unit on the shoulder, and heads back down the center of the formation. Lastly, the brown unit turns 180 degrees, taps the black unit on the shoulder, and goes down the center of the formation – the entire cycle is then repeated over until contact is broken with the enemy.

A couple of tips – once tapped on the shoulder, usually you fire a complete magazine down range. That way, when falling-back via the center of the formation, you can swap out magazines and get back into the fight by the time you get to your next location. Second, the Australian Center-Peel is hard to do when being attacked in the “Linear” ambush technique, but I’ll show you how it is works better in other ambush techniques; and when I say “harder”, I mean communication-wise. Each teammate has to know who goes first and has to react very quickly – in any of these counter-ambush techniques, your team needs to react quickly.

Traditional “L-Shape” Ambush:

The classic “L-Shape” ambush formation works great. It’s better to have more men, but if you squad is small, it’s still doable. Basically, you want to have the long-leg of the “L” along the main location that the enemy will be traveling; the short-leg of the “L” is set up directly in front of the enemy – this way, you’ll catch the enemy from two separate directions without having to worry about friendly-fire. This type of ambush is by far one of the most effective that I’ve used; also, with any ambush, be very aggressive. The more sound, fire-power, etc that you can make to create more confusion, the better your chances of winning the fight. Use whatever you’ve got – sound devices, airsoft grenades/mines, your voice – seriously, etc. One of the best tools you can use is free – your mouth. Yell, scream, do whatever you can to create chaos for the enemy. The more time the enemy is confused, the more time you and your team will have to place accurate fire-power on them.

Counter-Ambush to the “L-Shape” Ambush:

Here, the Australian Center-Peel works very well. Note – I have the ambushed team falling back directly from where they came from – what’s wrong with that? You’re correct if you answered, “Hey, they are still in ambushing team’s trap.” Right - even though they are falling back, the long-leg of the “L” is still in close contact; a better fall-back route is shifted about 45 degrees to their left (45 degrees to their right from looking at the photo above); that way, they are falling back from the entire ambush team and not just part of them.

Anyways, the point-man fires a complete magazine once contact is made, falls-back via the center of the formation, taps the red unit on the shoulder as a sign of “last-man”, and sets up shop behind the green unit. The red unit finishes what is left of his magazine, falls back via the center, taps the grey unit on the shoulder, and sets up behind the black unit. This cycle is repeated down through the team and over and over again until your team is safe from enemy contact.

“V-Shape” Ambush:

The “V-Shape” ambush is also just effective as the “L-Shape” technique; as you can see from the photo above, your team encloses the enemy team in a “V-Shape.” Simple put, once the signal from the TL has been given, your team opens fire on the enemy catching them in the “V” shape.

Yet the trick is that the enemy can break through at the neck of the “V” – the weakest point – i.e. the least amount of combined fire-power. As most of you know, conventional military units are told to take the offense when ambushed – instead of falling back, they are taught to focus their fire- power on the center of the ambushing force and break through using superior fire power/suppression. It’s not a bad idea – take the fight to the enemy, but with milsim airsoft, usually we are dealing with small teams of five-ten members per unit; either falling back (I.E. Special Operations/Recon units’ procedure) or taking the fight to the enemy can work for the ambushed team.

From my experience with this type of ambush, it’s been 50/50, and it all depends on how well your team communicates and operates with each other. The times that it has succeeded, it went very well, was lighting fast, and shocked the hell out of the opposing force; the times it hasn’t...well, let’s just say that it wasn’t pretty.
Counter-Ambush to the “V-Shape” Ambush:

For this counter-ambush section, no diagrams are needed – or ones that we haven’t already shown. There are two main QRD that work well in this situation, and they are both very simple; one, use the Australian Center-Peel and haul ass out of the ambush location – this I would not recommend that much in this situation, though. Why? Because your entire team has to turn tail and fall back through enemy fire by the ambushing team in the “V-Shape”. Second, and what I suggest doing if you get caught in a “V-Shape” ambush, is to forge on through the center of the ambushing force – use speed, suppressive fire, and aggression to gain the advantage and win the fight – turn a typical defensive strategy into an offensive one. All your team needs to do is to keep moving and always firing – in a sense, it’s like a reversed Australian Center-Peel. Either way, one of your best bets in any fight is mental toughness – always value living more then, “Oh well – I’ll only have to respawn and start over.” Having the right kind of mindset is a key advantage in any fight – get your “Type A” personality on.

“Dual Linear” Ambush:

Now for a little twist on the classic “Linear” ambush technique –the “Dual Linear.” Some of you may have been wondering, “Why not set up two teams across from each other and catch the enemy squad in a crossfire/broadside?” Well, common logic tells you (or it should…) that, unless the enemy is in a valley and your two teams are on hills firing down, friendly-fire is likely to happen – i.e. not good; in airsoft, you’ll have pissed teammates while the still-alive enemy laughs, but in real life, your best friend of six years is now dead.

Anyways, the “Dual-Linear” is a modified broadsides ambushing technique. As you can see in the photo on the page above, the enemy squad passes the first ambush team on the right (from looking at the photo); the second ambush team on the left waits until the enemy enters the team’s field of fire and then opens up on them. The ambushed team will usually fall back in some sort of fashion, and that is when the other ambush team on the right comes in. While the enemy is falling back and trying to get fire on the primary ambushing team, the secondary ambush team waits until they arrive in their fire sectors – once the enemy gets in the team’s fire-zone, open up and finish them off. Again, this technique is very simple and easy to set up and is one of the most effective ways to take down a squad.

Now – back to the tactical aspect of this method. Alright, the enemy is retreating, and all of a sudden, the secondary team opens fire on them; now they are really caught off guard – two different enemies from two different directions. What I suggest is that the primary ambushing team – the one the initiated contact first – circles around and turns the “Dual-Linear” into an “L-Shape” ambush. See the photo on the page below; once your team is in position, open up fire on the enemy again, thus eliminating them for good.

But what if the enemy doesn’t retreat and takes the fight to the primary ambushing team? Or what if the enemy falls back directly across from the primary team (to the right on the picture two pages above)?

For the first question, one possibility is for the secondary ambushing team to turn the “Dual-Linear” into an “L-Shape” ambush by moving to their left (from looking at the photo).

For the second question, another possibility is, again, to turn the “Dual-Linear” into a “L-Shape” ambush by having the primary team focusing their fire on the retreating enemy, directly across from them; while the secondary ambushing team turns their field of fire downwards (from looking at the photo) onto the enemy.

For any ambush, there are a number of different possible scenarios that your team and/or the enemy team can, and will, do. The best tip I can give you is to have a general plan in mind, but always be ready to adapt to a new situation that your team hasn’t planned for. Also – communication is vital.

Counter-Ambush to the “Dual Linear” Ambush:

There’s really nothing new that I’ll discuss that I haven’t already done before for other counter-ambushing methods; but one idea that stands out in my mind, and has worked a few times, is to take the fight to the enemy when ambushed in the “Dual-Linear” type. Unless the ambushing force has a large number of people in it, then, usually, each ambushing unit (primary and secondary) would be half the strength of a normal ambushing force – i.e. split one team into two smaller ones. If that’s the case, then your team will have more members then either one of the ambushing teams, and there’s a good possibility that your team can take the fight to one of the ambushing units and win; or at least get out of there alive and take out some of the bad guys at the same time.

You’ll just have to remember that, somewhere, there is a secondary team that can reinitiate the ambush if they get into the right position – keep that in mind.

I hope you all have liked our brief look into different methods for ambushing and counter-ambushing tactics. Take some of these methods and apply them to your team – have a general plan, rehearse, and also be able to adapt to new situations when they arise. Until next time – have a good one and be smart out there on the field.

Announcement

2008-12-27T20:13:00.000-08:00

A Letter to the Readers

I would like to start off by thanking everyone that has left me a comment or sent me an email saying how much they enjoy reading the blog. If for any reason you did not get a response from me quickly, please send me another message because with the gap in work I was able to do on the blog, I have gotten somewhat confused to whom I have answered and whom I have not. This also applies if you have requested the FM 7-8 and not received it.

I would just like to give you guys a heads up that I am still operating in Iraq as I type. There will be times like this week where I have to focus on my real job and cannot get a free moment to sit down and do an article. I do not want to give the impression that I have stopped writing; I have merely become very busy. Today completes a hellacious last couple of weeks and I am exhausted. The heat has moved in and taken a toll on my health but I am on the up side of it now. As of right now I am back on schedule and should be able to get you guys out a new post every night. I will try my hardest to dedicate the necessarry attention to the blog and get the information you crave out so you can immediately start applying it to your game play. The month of June is going to be a big one with AT CT. We have added a new member; will be offering custom patches through Airsplat, and even start the works of creating a training camp we will hold in October of this year to physically come out and teach you die hard milsim Airsofters the techniques we use in the real world.

Today is Memorial Day.

Please take a moment to remember those who have fallen for us. I, for one, have lost many friends since being in the military and will be taking some extra time to thank them. Enjoy your day off, I wish I could be home with my family celebrating this holiday but duty calls elsewhere. I enjoy all your comments and emails; I hope you guys are learning a lot from my writing,

Thank you for reading,

Donnie T.

Intro To Teams

2008-11-27T19:17:00.000-08:00

Task Organization

I have spoken in previous posts about the key essential of task organization and now I am finally going to explain what I mean by this. Task organization is defined by the means of a team leader or commander organizing his force, to match certain tasks that need to be fulfilled in the fight. Pretty much assigning everyone their specific role on the team. I have doctored this doctrine to fit more towards Airsoft and mil-sim games that are played.

I will use an example of a 9 man team/squad, just to make it broken out evenly. I would rather call this a squad because there will be fire teams in this squad and using the word team too many times could get confusing.

So you have 9 players. A Squad leader and 2 fire teams comprised of 3 riflemen and a Team leader. Here is how the team would look;

Squad Leader

Fire Team One Leader
Rifleman
Rifleman
Rifleman

Fire Team Two Leader
Rifleman
Rifleman
Rifleman

The Squad leader’s role is the overall commander of the team/squad. He is the one with the most experience and knowledge on the playing field or the one that organized the squad to begin with. He also is the one in charge on the field. He uses his skill and leadership to command his squad to work as a team and eventually be victorious in the mission. The Squad leader communicates directly to the two fire team leaders. He is the sprinter on the playing field going from team leader to team leader commanding the next move. It would be wise at minimum to have the Squad leader and two team leaders on a radio, this would make the squad leaders job much easier.

The Fire Team Leader is the commander of his small unit. He takes his orders from the squad leader and directs his men to fulfill the squad leader’s commands. A fire team will very rarely split up, they use their organization and numbers to work a fluid single unit and complete the tasks of the squad leader. When I get into basic tactics you will see certain moves a squad leader can make using his fire teams such as flanking and getting on line.

The Rifleman is the grunt, the trigger puller, the guy that sole job is to take an order and attack with full force. Now one thing to think about here is, if you are going to operate as an organized team, do not get the “Rambo” complex. You need to stay organized and stay on your team taking the directions from the fire team leader. Do not go off fighting the battle yourself trying to get all the kills by your lone. As we get into basic and advanced tactics you will see where the fire team leader will have a lot of leeway to decide how to approach and successfully complete his task given by the Squad leader. This will require the riflemen being always alert, and always ready for their next direction from the team leader.

This was the basic explanation of task organization, and tomorrow I will get into special attachments such as sniper teams and grenadiers. Then to follow on June 1st will be bucks 4 part write up on intro to sniper tactics. Again I apologize for the gap in posts but things are getting back on track now so have faith! Have a great memorial day!

Donnie

Announcement

2008-10-24T09:55:00.000-07:00

Gentlemen,

I appologize for the lack of information and posts lately, but sometimes higher duty does call over here and I get pretty busy for a couple of days. I am playing catch-up now answering emails, questions and comments and tonight you will indeed see a number of new posts. There are some new things that are going to be offered soon so keep checking back! Thank you for reading,

Donnie

Announcement

2008-09-16T14:50:00.000-07:00

Table of Contents

Readers,

I have gone through and renamed all of the titles of the posts to make an easier archive of data for you. This new, simple title structure will make this blog serve more as an open source of information rather than an ongoing diary. So when you add a new member to your team, and there is something on here you would like them to read up about, you can easily navigate through the historical posts to get the information you needed. Now the “Recent Posts” column on the right side of the screen serves you more as a “Table of Contents”.

I am just trying to make this more of a tool for you to be able to come back and use when necessary.

Thanks again for reading,

Donnie

Announcement

2008-07-16T07:41:00.000-07:00

Some Changes

This is not going to be a write up or article but just some information about the future of the blog and the recent changes. I took down our “Bio’s” we had on here because as a team we decided it would be a decent security precaution. Since we are all still active duty, we still need to remain on the “down low” for the most part. It is just not good for guys in our position to have too much personal information about us on an open source.

I have a busy week ahead of me, and post may not come at the normal times between the 18th and 22nd. Don’t be alarmed I have not abandoned the blog, I just have to work my day job. I have a few things I would like to share tonight about combat load and how to help the team as a whole. So be ready for some new stuff. I hope you all are enjoying it.

Also, I just realized that a recent setting changed on the blog, and it was not notifying me of comments, so to all of you that left comments in the last 2 days, I was unaware and am getting to them immediately!

Donnie

Boot Overview

2008-06-15T11:31:00.000-07:00

Footwear of the Future

I have been promising gear write-ups and finally they are starting.

I figured I would start at the bottom and work my way up so our first topic tonight is going to be BOOTS!! I will tell you my opinion on footwear: the goods, the bads, and what to look for when searching for the ultimate urban combat boot.

This is one of the few instances where the military as a whole has not quite grasped a decent concept yet. The special operations community has on the other hand, so maybe someday the conventional guys will see the light too.

The idea of wearing an 8” tall full leather combat boot is outdated. Yes, in Vietnam it was perfect, and was fairly waterproof to an extent, but now, with new technology and the fast pace of mil sim games, we need to keep up with the times.

Every regular combat boot I have ever worn is way too big, way too bulky, and you cannot be quick on your feet in them whatsoever. In a firefight, you need to be able to move fast, smooth, and well balanced. But when you strap an extra 45 lbs of gear on you, you need a boot that is going to compensate for it. So right now, throw all ideas of an 8” combat boot out of your head, we are ruling them completely out of being efficient footwear for the job.

**If you don’t believe me, look at the sport of backpacking, a sport that involves carrying a heavy pack constantly, none of the boots designed for backpacking extend beyond 6 inches. An industry with where tons of research and development goes into their footwear and they don’t have huge goofy boots that go up to their knees.**

I understand that many of you have to play Airsoft on a budget, so I will make sure I touch all price ranges. I will start though with the most expensive, the best, and of course my personal favorite. “The Merrell Chameleon” I wore this boot my entire first tour in Iraq. It was a dream come true on my feet. The sleek and angled shape let me easily recover from taking a knee with a heavy pack full of radios. You can take off in a dead sprint in a spilt second in them, and it has beautiful ankle support. They are waterproof, durable, and you feel like you can kick through a steel door when you put them on. I give this boot a A-freakin-plus! The Chameleon retails for about $140 and you can find it on http://www.shoebuy.com/. The only drawbacks to this boot are, the color, but nothing a can of spray paint can’t fix, and they are a little hot. When I say a little hot, my feet were a little hot walking the streets of Mosul in 120 degree weather, so I think you will be fine.

Onto a cheap boot. Although this boot is very cheap it is excellent. In fact I am wearing a pair of these right now as I type. I have had them on since I got into country the beginning of January. This boot is; “The Original SWAT Classic 6” Tan”. Again a short boot, almost like a high top, but extremely durable. Mine have been through a ton of walking, and ton of mud, and a ton of crap since being in Iraq and they still look brand new! The Original SWAT boot retails for $69 and you can buy them at http://www.alaudacenturion.com/ . Go to contacts page and call John Rogers for orders. He is a very nice guy and will get you squared away. Tell him Donnie sent you, you should get a good laugh and a funny story about me out of him.

Of course I have to touch the Oakley boot. The small Special Forces edition is awesome. But they recently redid their design to accommodate for Army regulation of an 8” boot… BLAH… They are very expensive for a boot, and really for milsim Airsoft, I recommend the Original SWAT, it is a good buy, cheap durable and gets the job done.

Well, I see I jumped a little too far outside of the box too quick. Sorry guys, it is my nature to think outside the way everyone has told me too. Just to give you some information on me, I was an active Skateborder for about 6 years. The minute I stopped skating, I started jumping out of planes. The point I am making is; my ankles are not in the prestine condition I would like them to be. In fact they are fairly weak. Even though I am making a point about low cut boots, I am not saying to sacrifice ankle support. Even though these boots are lower than the original combat boot, the ankle support is still beautiful, If not better. But if you do not want to take my word for it, especially when it could mean spending $140, I understand. If you would like to stay traditional, I recomend the Original SWAT 8" Classic. I own 2 pairs of these. The best part about this boot is, you can walk 12 miles in them right out of the box. There is no break in time. These boots are like wearing skate shoes. These also can be found at www.alaudacenturion.com for a retail of $70.

So what I am trying to get you guys to focus on for boots, is to completely rid yourself from even looking at the military market for boots. The great boots lie in the Civilian Hiking industry, because those boots are engineered for having extra weight on your body. I hope I helped you guys out,

Donnie

Headlines

2008-05-15T07:30:00.000-07:00

UK Press Release

Well I am fairly excited today. This was sent to me yesterday from the RAF (Royal Air Force) public affairs office. I removed my real name for certain reasons but if you happen to catch this article elsewhere in the news, then you will learn my real name. I know this is not airsoft related, but I post it in hopes to further instill your confidence in AT CT's tactical ability showing you that we really are not just your "average" guys.

*Those of you from ASR will now know where my signature came from...

04 May 2007 Coalition saves Iraqi Police General

RAF Tornado GR4 strike aircraft from 12(Bomber) Squadron, based at RAF Lossiemouth, Scotland, have been in action over Baghdad in direct support of the Iraqi Police Force. On a recent combat mission over the Sadr City District of Baghdad a pair of Tornados were directed to provide air support to an Iraqi Police General and his escort, under attack by insurgents.

Brigadier General Ali Al-Maksusi, an Iraqi Police Commander, was visiting Sadr City when he was ambushed by a large number of heavily armed insurgents. The General and his men were surrounded and under intense fire from insurgents armed with AK-47 assault rifles and rocket propelled grenades. The insurgents called on the Iraqi Police to lay down their arms so they could take the General prisoner or worse. Fortunately, the General was able to contact Coalition Forces who responded immediately.

The call for assistance was relayed to SrA "Donnie" , from Ft Bragg, the JTAC (Joint Terminal Air Controller) responsible for the area. He called for air support and immediately the Tornado GR4s responded. The JTAC quickly explained the critical situation and asked for a tactical demonstration to show the aircraft’s presence and overwhelming combat power.

One of the Tornados, crewed by Flight Lieutenant Ben Cable and Flight Lieutenant Mike Morgan then performed a high-speed, low-level show of presence over the scene. The Iraqi Police and their opponents heard the faint sound of the aircraft which became piercingly loud as it flew low overhead, dispensing flares into the dark sky. The sudden appearance of the Tornado GR4, armed with a 27mm cannon and 1000lb GPS and laser guided bombs, was too much for the insurgents and they fled in fear. Brigadier General Ali said afterwards that the aircraft had “scared the all living grace of god out of the insurgents and they did not want to continue the fight”. He also personally thanked the JTAC and the aircrew for saving his life.

Announcement

2008-04-15T05:50:00.000-07:00

Blackout

If any of you did not know, I am currently in Iraq right now. Every time a U.S. soldier from your unit is injured or killed in action we go on what we call “Communication Blackout”. This means all the internet and phones are shut down to ensure the news gets back to their families via proper Military channels.

If you notice I have not put anything up, don’t be alarmed . It usually means I am either busy with my day job, or the internet has been shut off because something tragic has happened. I promise tonight I will make up for my evening of absence and if you could, take moment of silence to pay respects to a soldier that is no longer with us.

Again, I thank you guys for reading,

Donnie

Recent Feed Back

2008-03-13T08:35:00.000-07:00

A Comment Left By: Arya

I don't know how long you guys have been into airsoft, but there are some flaws where you try to integrate real military scenarios into airsoft.

In airsoft, you see your target long before you can hit them. The ambushing party will have a hell of a time because a properly spaced convoy will have a significant portion of the party outside of lethal range. Consider that airsoft guns have a max effective range of 150ft. It becomes very easy for the convoy party to see the ambush and run away.

Next, you need a lot of real estate for a scenario like this. It won't be an immersive milsim experience if both sides can see each other from the beginning and see where each team is moving. This is often the ultimate airsoft limitation, most people don't have access to square kilometers of real estate.

I've done these scenarios with my team before and it's about a 15 minute game.

There are larger games that will incorporate this into the larger game at hand. For example, this scenario will be a secondary objective and the outcome will determine how the next objectives play out. I recommend you guys take a look at the OP Lion Claws series of DVD's and OP Restore Order.

It's pretty complicated to make an entire day or even half of a days worth of immersive airsoft scenarios.

The above was commented on the most recent post of the blog regarding scenarios. I have to say Arya has some very valid points and I would like to address each one and try to propose a solution.

In the military we have a few forms of training, we have miles gear, (A sophisticated form of laser tag) we have Simmunition (Chalk rounds for our weapons) and we have just good old fashioned blanks. Since a great deal of coordination, maintenance and parts are required for miles gear and Simmunition, we often just slap a blank adapter on our weapon, load our mags full of blanks, and hit the training area. When playing with blanks of corse you are not causing any damage to anyone, it is merely a noise, so this is almost the exact same dilemma you talk about seeing your enemy before you can actually engage. For us, it is about going through the motions, of what we would do in certain situations. That was what my scenario play suggestion was about, training. Training you, your team leaders, and other team members on many different things. Planning, execution, leadership, and means to employ your assets.

Now I will go in order on Aya’s comments.

“Consider that airsoft guns have a max effective range of 150ft. It becomes very easy for the convoy party to see the ambush and run away.”

This is well understood. When I said convoy/ unit I did not mean 4 evenly spaced vehicles. It could have been as simple as 2 individuals carrying a crate while 8 provided armed security as they walked to their destination. Or you could have used a single pickup truck driving at about 5 mph because of simulated rough terrain, with the cargo and personnel in the back. This is where that *Planning" piece comes in! How are you going to get a pickup truck to a choke point and get him trapped? Maybe your team has two vehicles and you are going to conduct a rolling ambush? The possibilities are endless.

If you are planning an ambush and the enemy sees you before you start to ambush them, then that isn’t a very successful ambush now is it? To properly conduct an ambush, you need to set a trap thate eliminates the means for the enemy to break contact. This requires your team to get creative and come up with ideas. It also incorporates the task organization and means of employing assets.

For example: If you have a grenadier where is the best place to put him? Should it be his grenades that kick off the ambush? Do you want him at their only avenue of escape to try and stop it by heavy firepower?

You guys are conducting the training internally, so you set the rules accordingly. Who’s to say you can state a rule that a smoke bomb is an IED (Improvised explosive device) and it immediately disables the vehicle? We do this in military training all the time, (make our rules for the training and abide by them to get the best possible training value and learningout of the experience). The team leader needs to start getting on this train of thought.

“This is often the ultimate airsoft limitation, most people don't have access to square kilometers of real estate.”

This is very true. This was just one scenario idea, give me time and I will give you many more that will suit all places that people live and play. Teams like “The Green Mountain Rangers” have access to a 80 acre ranch that their whole Airsoft community plays on, so a scenario like this could very easily suit teams and Airsofters in regions such as theirs.

“I've done these scenarios with my team before and it's about a 15 minute game.”

Yes this is right; if one team executes their plan flawlessly then it should not take long at all. You can always then switch roles, break for a set amount of time to plan, and reengage. Also, why do it only once? Why not conduct the scenario, hold an AAR (After action Report) with all the individuals involved, discuss the key points that went well, and failed, and then do it again. Try and fix the things that went wrong.

I am challenging you guys to hold games and practices that make you think. The more scenarios you play out, the more experienced you become in all different situations. So when you are at a tournament, and the prize is a beautiful $400 AEG, and the scenario they are running is at a junior level compared to what you have trained on. You go in and you take it with ease. Why? Because you trained harder than you fought.

This is merely advice, not all of it is applicable to every Airsofter. I enjoyed this feedback, and I hope I helped to answer some of your concerns. Thank you for viewing my blog Arya, feel free to email me anymore questions or ideas you might have.

Donnie

From Raptor:

Another thing: NO TWO SITUATIONS ARE EVER THE SAME.

With Donnie's last point above I would like to point out that one thing in law enforcement that we teach rookies is that no two calls or contacts are ever the same. They may have similarities, but there are differences. You can never, ever say that you are a master at a situation...even on SWAT we would train for the same things constantly, with wrenches thrown in.

Remember, this stuff comes down to mastering the basics. It is no different than being a good fighter or athlete: the successful and standouts never win by some complicated move or play. It is the ones that have perfected the basics that are the victor.

Scenario Homework

2008-02-12T12:31:00.000-08:00

Mixing Up the Game Play

I imagine not everyone has the time to always go out to a certified mil-sim “Airsoft” field to play their games.

I can see in country areas where friends and teams get together to play in any piece of large property or woods that they may own. I have some ideas on how to make your games more interesting, entertaining, and demanding. Shaping your games after the mil-sim ideas I am about to propose will give you the chance to utilize the tactics and techniques we continue to teach and write about on this blog. These ideas can even be incorporated at fields and organized play once you plant the seed of the idea in the local players' heads see if they like the sound of it.

I have always been a fan of training in my career. When we get to get all dressed up, board a helicopter or C-130, jump into a DZ and assault the OPFOR (opposing Force) with our m-4’s and blanks, it was a riot. It is so much fun to get out there and just kick ass with the men you work with. The reason why I never got into any action pursuit games (paint ball), was that I did not like the way they played, whether it was mil-sim woods ball or speed ball. Those games always turned into someone just holding up their weapon and firing as much paint in a general direction as possible. Where is the real skill involved in that? With these game suggestions I am trying to get you, the players, to play your games where you can be victorious by great planning and execution and not just sheer firepower.

If you plan on playing on the weekends or have set a date with some buddies to get together and play I suggest, if you haven’t already, that you pre-determine the teams. Then come up with a good scenario you’re going to play out at least a day before you actually play,. For example:

Team ONE:

You are guerrilla fighters in your home country. You need to get re-supplies to a drop off point so an allied force can pick them up at a later time. You have heard that there are forces in there area that have been tipped about the supply movement, so ambush is imminent.

Team TWO:

You are the nations' military in which there is much opposition to. Your Intel units have gotten word on a supply movement by known HVT (High Valued Target) rebel fighters. You are to intercept the supply movement, and capture/kill all rebel fighters.

Both teams takes their playing location and picks out Point A, and Point B. The starting point being point A and their supply drop-off point being point b.

Team two does not know team one’s route, but you do establish boundaries and area in which this is going to take place.

Now it is up to planning.

Both teams have a goal that they need to accomplish.

One team needs to figure out a way to dodge a force hunting them while the other team needs to anticipate the most likely route to the drop off point and find the best place for an ambush.

If team two spreads their forces out too thinly and team one comes into contact with them they can very easily break contact, get to their drop off point and succeed the mission.

This is where the planning and execution skill is needed. This will challenge team leaders to utilize the tools learned from the tactics we preach. It will also make him familiar with how to deal with certain situations and how to task organize his team. (Task organization of a team will be a whole seperate write up)

Going out in a field and shooting all of your buddies in a free for all may be entertaining, but things like this build skill and forces guys to think. T

his is how we can build good, honest and skilled players in this sport. Milsim Airsoft is still fairly new and we all have the power to shape it how we want it to be. This gives us a chance to breed great military/ LEO leaders and operators in a game. So gentlemen, lets make this our sport and lets make it rock.

Donnie

Announcement

2008-01-12T11:54:00.000-08:00

A Quick Note to the Readers

Readers,

One thing we, the AT CT team would like to add to this Blog is an active Q & A each night.

We are constantly monitoring our email address to see if we get any questions.

Email us your questions about anything tactical, gear, war, skirmish ideas, or real combat. We would love to post your questions and our answers. This, of course, will be in addition to our nightly write ups on certain topics. We are also open to your ideas. What do you want us to talk about? Shoot us an email at Donnie_airsplat@yahoo.com and give us your thougts and feedback.

Rank Structure and Callsigns

2007-11-11T13:08:00.000-08:00

Rank Structure In A Team

Lately I have been going through the more popular Airsoft forums. I see a trend and almost a certain reoccurring bicker about people wearing patches, rank, tabs, and anything that is still actually worn on a US Military Service member’s uniform. There is a simple and easy fix for this.

Here is a solution that does not violate or push to posing for a rank structure. You don't need every swinging Joe to know your rank on your team. If you made it clear, then you have given the enemy the advantage of knowing who he is targeting.

I would imagine it is mainly for your team only, and maybe a few others at tournaments to know who to see if they have questions or information about your team. At any sew shop or patch shop online you can get SLAP BADGES MADE. These are either cloth or leather, the size of a Driver’s license, embroider with whatever text or writing you want on them, and have Velcro on the back. If you need a link to a good patch shop email me, they even have high-speed slap badges that glow in the dark.

Use your team name or whatever word you want it to represent. Take the first letter and last letter of the word. For this example lets use the word "HAVOC".

So your abbreviation will be "HC"

The commander of the team is represented by the number "6" so the team captain’s rank will be "HC6". Although his visual rank on the slap patch reads "HC6" on the radio for instance, his call sign is "Havoc 6"

Now onto the other ranks

Team Chief Enlisted (aka Sgt Major) = 9
Team 1st Sergeant = 7

If your team is a squad sized element, I hope your task organization is broken into fire teams. If so, number your fire teams with a prefix. If you have 2 fire teams you can number them Fire Team 1 and Fire Team 2 obviously.

If you are Fire team one's Commander or "team leader" your rank will be "HC16" or "Havoc 16"

HC = Havoc
1 = Fire Team one
6 = Commander/Team leader

In fire teams the only person that has a reserved number is the team leader, which is the number 6, after that you can use any number to represent your grenadiers, riflemen, snipers, and machine gunners.

Rifle man 1 = "HC11"
Rifle Man 2 = "HC12"
Machine Gunner = "HC13”
Sniper = "HC14"

Fire Team leader = "HC16"

Lets say your team is smaller, ie 8–10, and not large enough to break off into fire teams. Your Command structure should be a Team leader and a Team sergeant. So their ranks would be

HC6 = Team Leader
HC9 = Team Sgt.

then

HC1 = Rifleman
HC2 = Rifleman
HC3 = Sniper
HC4 = Machine Gunnerect

Place the slap badges on either your chest rig or wherever you have some Velcro, If it were me personally, I would put them on the back of my helmet or hat so the team leader can easily make quick battle decisions and calls from his command and control position.

You guys catching on? This will create organization in your structure and it will also not piss anyone off accusing you of posing. Hope this helps. If you want more info on a great way to task organize your team, I can help you, email me at donnie_airsplat@yahoo.com

Announcement

2007-10-11T12:49:00.000-07:00

Required Reading

2007-05-10T16:27:00.000-07:00

An Offer

I know I said I was going to start talking about gear today, but I am still compiling good sample photos to use for that write up. Two days ago, in the last paragraph of my training timeline, I offered to email anyone the U.S. Army Field Manual 7-8. This 400+ page manual is an in-depth study of the Rifle Platoon and Squad level tactics.

This is sort of that “crawl before you walk” deal. Reading over this will give you great knowledge in the tactics that the real guys are training in right now. It covers how platoons and squads are built, how duties are assigned, and what everyone’s role is during different situations. However: the key to a successful team is not have 8 Rambos. If everyone has a job and knows how to perform it, the team will operate together, and give you an advantage over your opponents. I will go more into this when the time comes.

In the mean time I am offering this manual.

You would probably pay about $40 to get it at a surplus store but I am offering it for nothing. I elevate the skills of the mil-sim side of Airsoft so when I get home from Iraq, I have some worthy opponents. I am also putting out a special offer:

In 2 weeks anyone that is subscribed to this blog will receive the US Army Special Forces SUT (Small Unit Tactics) handbook .pdf, via email.

I will only release that one out in special occasions because it is a GOOD one! Has a tone of great information on how to operate with a very small unit. So seriously, type your email in that little box to the right and many benefits await you. I promise, I won’t let you down.

Donnie

War Story 1

2007-05-09T14:45:00.000-07:00

The Beginning of the Saga

I won’t kick right off into the lessons because that would make it seem too much like school. Back home at my unit, I am in charge of training up our guys once they get out of all the schools they attend. I put them through about a 6 week program, and in the end, certify them ready to deploy to combat. I am very much used to writing lessons plans, and teaching on a schedule but a big key to that no matter how interesting the subject, you have to keep the attention of the students. So I always throw in a few stories in between subjects and lessons, stuff that’s funny or sometimes stuff that directly pertains to what we are learning.

As I sit here and think of what story I should really start out with, I am some what stumped. Not to mention it is about 105 degrees in here, and 1:30 in the morning, so my thought process isn’t exactly clear. Yet, a decent one comes to mind that has somewhat of a humorous spin to it, especially since it was something I was directly responsible for.

It was December 2005. I was in Northern Iraq on a mission with a Special Forces team. We were going out to this local guy’s house that apparently had been kidnapped and held for ransom. He claimed he was going to come along with us and show us where the guy lived that kidnapped him. We were game, especially if it involved going to hunt a bad guy.

So we loaded up into the trucks and I was sitting in the passenger seat of one of the HMMWVs. In the truck with me there were 2 other team members, an interpreter, and the guy that was going to ID the house. As we drove around for a while looking at every run down house, waiting for this guy to point it out, he started yelling in Arabic. A short distance in front of us a man was in his driveway getting his haircut by another man. As the local was spewing Arabic words, which sounds more like a low growl rathter than speaking, the interpreter was quickly translating.

“He says that’s the guy, right there getting his haircut, that’s the guy!” The interpreter yelled at me.

I quickly got on the radio telling the team that our man was the one sitting in the chair. We quickly sped up and the team leader ordered everyone out of the trucks "as fast as you can guns up... lets nab him now!"

The vehicles sped to the driveway almost instantly and spread out to almost form a “U” around the house. As we rolled up to this spot the local was still talking to the interpreter but this was already going down. Everyone was out, guns up, thirsty to bag this terrorist to his own people. As we all approached the man, who was absolutely terrified, the interpreter jumped out of the truck and yelled for us all to listen to him.

“He says that’s the man that was kidnapped also, not that is our bad guy” the interpreter said.

Of course they all looked at me, but the interpreter had my back by saying his initial translation was "that was our bad guy". Of course we apologized to the poor guy that we just scared to death and went on our way. You know it was a while before I heard the end of that.

Of course we laughed about it later, but I really thought for a minute there we got lucky and that was our guy. Well, I hope I entertained you for a little bit, or at least enough to bring you back tomorrow, which is when I will begin the gear setup guide. Take care,

Donnie

Rough Outline

2007-04-08T10:59:00.000-07:00

A Forecast

Well I figured it was time I give a forecast to the readers in regards to what you can expect in the near future. Of course, there will be days when we go off on tangents and questions and such; but I would like to stick to a schedule of topics and lessons. So, for now I will throw out my ideas to give you a broad spectrum of what you will see. I am open to suggestions anyone might have on a topic they would like me to talk about.

I am going to start off with the first thing you should always start with: your equipment. I will give you the "do's and don’ts" we use in the military on how to arrange and setup our gear; having your gear right is a great way to make your game very efficient and pay more attention to your enemy than your kit. I also can provide links to gear I know works great that is still decently cheap because I know that everyone has to perform their hobby on a budget.

After the gear I intend to start a longer portion with a basic walk through of SUT (small unit tactics). I will kick it off with ways to build your team's structure in regards to how you operate, assign roles, and a good communication platform. I believe one of the most overlooked advantages in this sport is communication, if you are going to be on a team, then play as a team, and work as a team. If you and your teammates are constantly communicating this will lead to a substantial advantage over your opponent.

I can offer great practical exercises you and your teammates can use to practice movements and eventually reach a point where you start reacting to situations instantly and flawlessly. I can supply you with great literature to read up on these things on your own. If you’re like me, I love to get my hands on every piece of reading material I can when I get into a hobby. These will be great study materials to again increase your advantage on the field.

I will soon come up with a better form of organizing these lessons and write ups (hopefully a calendar) where you will be able to see when I will touch on certain subjects. I encourage you to email me with questions and suggestions in the mean time a good study guide to start with is Army (Field Manual) FM 7-8 “Infantry Rifle Platoon and Squad Tactics”. If you start reading this in your spare time, you will be well up to speed by the time I reach SUT. If you would like a copy of the FM 7-8 email me and I will send it to you in a Adobe Acrobat file.

Thank You for visiting my blog,

Donnie

Pictures

2007-03-08T09:10:00.000-08:00

RECENT PICTURES

I am sure you all see a ton of photos of the war in the press, but I figured I would share some of my personal pictures taken from recent operations. I will add a small caption below each one, trying to explain the situation, but if you ever would like me to go into more detail about a certain picture, just shoot me an email and I would be happy to talk about it.

This was Company Sniper and me providing a ground unit overwatch while they conducted a foot patrol. Luckily we had Apaches and F16 fighter jets to watch our backs also.

This was my teammate and me on another rooftop providing overwatch for our guys on the ground. The main focus of my job is making sure our guys on the ground have cover from above.

I have a ton more, but I am going to have to run for the moment, time to do real work! Anyways...check back daily for updates.

Soon I will begin about a week long string of posts on basic tactics for small units. If there is anything you would like to see, feel free to shoot me an email! -Donnie-

Introduction

2007-02-07T08:30:00.000-08:00

WELCOME

Hello and welcome to Airsplat.com's newest addition to their website.

My name is Donnie T., and I am here to bring you, the milsim airsoft community, right smack into the middle of the action on the front lines of combat. My goal is to advise, assist, and entertain the readers with great information on mil-sim tactics, techniques, procedures, and even real world stories of events I have been involved in. I can aid in equipment setup, and advise on which products are the best for your money.

I have been in military just shy of 5 years, and in that time I have been deployed to combat twice with a total time on the ground of 13 months and counting. I have supported just about every maneuver unit possible from the Airborne Infantry and Strykers to a Special Forces Team . I currently am located in Iraq, in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

I want to share all of my experiences and knowledge in hopes it can bring even more realism to the mil-sim side of airsoft. I am a huge fan of milsim airsoft for it poses not only a great hobby but an effective way to train. I am also open to answer any questions you may have about the war, the military, tactics and gear. You may email me at donnie_airsplat@yahoo.com Thank you for visiting, and I look forward to hearing from you.