Rugged Road Outdoors 85 V2 Cooler Review

In the article "Rugged Road Outdoors 85 V2 Cooler Review," Andy Grossman discusses the Rugged Road Outdoors 85 V2 cooler, an ice chest designed for outdoor enthusiasts such as hunters, fishermen, and campers. Grossman emphasizes the variety of coolers available in the market and how this competition benefits consumers by driving innovation and reducing costs. He shares his experience and preference for the Rugged Road Outdoors cooler, a product he believes to be the answer to his long quest for the perfect outdoor cooler.

One of the highlights of the article is Grossman's review of the cooler's design and features. The Rugged Road 85 V2 cooler stands out due to its lightweight Fridgite insulation and a durable outer shell made of Rigorite. This combination results in a cooler that weighs nearly half of what similar-sized coolers weigh while still providing excellent cold-retention capability. Grossman also praises the cooler's practical features, including a tight-sealing latch, double-handle design, and a removable lid that can be used as a tray or cutting board.

Grossman further notes the company's mission, which includes using a portion of their profits to build wells around the globe, adding a humanitarian appeal to their products. He concludes that the cooler is not only highly functional and efficient but also offers excellent value at $399 with a lifetime warranty. The article makes a strong case for the Rugged Road Outdoors 85 V2 as a superior choice for anyone in need of a reliable and feature-rich cooler for their outdoor adventures.

For more detailed information, check out the original article Rugged Road Outdoors 85 V2 Cooler Review - The Armory Life.

North American XB-70 Valkyrie — America’s Cold War Supersonic Speed Bomber

The North American Aviation XB-70 Valkyrie was designed to be a supersonic strategic bomber for the U.S. Air Force, replacing the Boeing B-52 Stratofortress and the Corvair B-58 Hustler. Developed in the mid-1950s, the Valkyrie was intended to fly faster and higher than its predecessors to evade interceptor aircraft. However, advancements in Soviet surface-to-air missile (SAM) technology necessitated a shift in bomber tactics from high-altitude to low-level penetration, diminishing the Valkyrie's strategic advantages.

The XB-70 program faced financial challenges and an evolving strategic context that de-emphasized manned bombers in favor of Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles (ICBMs). Despite its advanced design, the U.S. Air Force canceled the Valkyrie project in 1961. The program's legacy included notable aerodynamic research and new technologies, such as stainless steel honeycomb panels for heat resistance and "compression lift" to enhance lift at supersonic speeds. Even though the bomber program was cut short, two XB-70 prototypes were ordered for research purposes.

The XB-70's history experienced a significant setback in 1966 when a mid-air collision during a photo shoot destroyed one of the two prototypes. This incident highlighted both the risks and technological wonders of the aircraft. Nonetheless, the remaining Valkyrie provided valuable data, contributing to future aerospace developments, including the Rockwell B-1 Lancer bomber and the Tupolev TU-144 jetliner. The last surviving XB-70 now resides at the National Museum of the United States Air Force.

For more information, read the full article: North American XB-70 Valkyrie — America’s Cold War Supersonic Speed Bomber

First Look: Springfield Armory Optics-Ready 1911 AOS Pistols

The Springfield Armory's latest release introduces optics-ready 1911 AOS pistols, modernizing the classic 1911 design with the integration of the Agency Optic System (AOS). This development addresses the need for factory-native optics capability, which has become a significant trend in the firearms industry. The new lineup includes the 1911 Ronin, Operator, and Emissary models in both 9mm and .45 ACP calibers with 5” and 4.25” barrel options, each equipped to support modern optics integration directly from the factory, reminiscent of the 1911 DS Prodigy.

The AOS is a plate-based system developed in collaboration with Agency Arms, allowing for the mounting of various popular optics. It also features an integral rear sight on the cover plate, preserving the classic 1911 slide lines. Pricing for each optic plate is set at $129, and every purchase includes access to one discounted AOS optic plate for $49. The system ensures proper co-witnessing with the front iron sights, enhancing accuracy and reliability. The article walks through the ease of installing the optics, noting that the AOS-equipped pistols come with screw-in plates that facilitate adding or changing optics as needed.

In hands-on testing, the author tried the 5” Ronin and Operator in 9mm and the 5” Emissary in .45 ACP, each outfitted with a Vortex Defender-CCW red dot optic. The author praises the AOS for making it simple to switch between optics and emphasizes the enhanced shooting experience offered by modern sighting systems on a sturdy 1911 platform. Overall, the AOS-equipped 1911 pistols from Springfield Armory breathe new life into this classic design, combining traditional aesthetics with state-of-the-art functionality. For more detailed information, visit First Look: Springfield Armory Optics-Ready 1911 AOS Pistols - The Armory Life.

First Look: Springfield Armory Optics-Ready 1911 AOS Pistols

Springfield Armory has announced its optics-ready 1911 AOS pistols, bringing significant modernization to the classic 1911 platform by integrating the Agency Optic System (AOS). This system, developed with Agency Arms, offers a plate-based mounting solution for popular red dot sights, which simplifies the process of outfitting the 1911 with modern optics. The new lineup includes the 1911 Ronin, Operator, and Emissary models, available in 9mm and .45 ACP with 5” and 4.25” barrel configurations, providing shooters with a blend of traditional design and contemporary functionality.

The incorporation of the AOS system means that the 1911 can now easily be equipped with a range of red dot sights, thanks to interchangeable plates that fit various optic brands. The standard configuration includes iron sights on a cover plate, but swapping to a red dot is straightforward. The new optics-ready models maintain the distinctive aesthetics of the 1911 while offering substantial functionality improvements. This upgrade enhances target acquisition speed and accuracy, making these models suitable for both defensive and sport shooting.

Springfield Armory's effort to keep the classic 1911 relevant in the optics-enabled era is evident in the thoughtful design of the AOS pistols. The option to add a red dot sight without losing the ability to co-witness with iron sights addresses common concerns about reliability and flexibility. Furthermore, each plate in the AOS system integrates a backup rear sight, ensuring that shooters always have a reliable sighting option. This system makes the 1911 adaptable to various optics, future-proofing it for evolving shooting preferences. For more information, read the full article: First Look: Springfield Armory Optics-Ready 1911 AOS Pistols - The Armory Life.

Vortex Optics Defender Red Dot Sights — Roundup

Vortex Optics is renowned for high-quality optics, including a range of red dot sights that have evolved to meet the needs of modern firearms. The article highlights the history and improvement of their optics, specifically the Vortex Venom, which has become smaller, lighter, and more integrated with firearms over time. With the advent of factory mounts for electronic sights, Vortex continues to lead in innovation. The article offers a thorough review of three red dot sights from the Defender series, noting their various sizes and features that cater to different shooting needs.

The Vortex Defender series includes three models: the CCW, ST, and XL, each designed for specific uses from compact concealed carry to larger competition optics. These models feature ergonomic designs, soft-touch buttons for reticle adjustments, and a sturdy build. A notable feature is the incremental dot adjustment scale where one click equals 1 MOA, simplifying adjustments for various distances. The review also details the shared specifications among the models, highlighting consistency in quality and functionality. The optics are praised for their crisp, clear dots and high-quality lenses that avoid distortion and starburst effects.

Designed to be waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof, the Defender sights have top-mounted battery compartments to maintain zero during battery changes. Tested on the Springfield Armory Echelon, all three models demonstrated impressive performance with fast aim point acquisition and reliable operation. The article concludes that the Defender series provides robust options tailored to different firearm setups, ensuring a suitable choice for any shooter. For more detailed information, check out the full article on Vortex Optics Defender Red Dot Sights — Roundup.

What Is Holster Retention?

Armed citizens and police officers share the issue of finding a secure way to carry a defensive pistol. The concept of holster retention, which is often misunderstood, is essential in this context. Various companies label their products as "retention holsters" or assign "levels" to indicate the protection they offer, but these terms can be confusing. In essence, holster retention refers to how well a holster can keep a gun in place, with methods ranging from friction fits to retention straps.

Understanding holster retention is straightforward but recognizing a retention holster requires more detail. A retention holster is designed to thwart gun grabs by assailants. High-quality holsters made of leather or Kydex often utilize internal locks and sophisticated deactivation techniques, such as moving hoods or pressing buttons, to secure the firearm. These designs enable the user to draw quickly while preventing unauthorized access.

The article dispels the myth that retention holsters are slow to draw from, attributing this belief to lack of practice rather than the holster design itself. It emphasizes the importance of regular practice with any retention holster to achieve proficiency. For those carrying concealed, a holster that offers sufficient retention to prevent accidents is crucial. In contrast, those who carry openly should invest in a high-quality retention holster to ensure their weapon remains secure from potential threats.

For more information, read What Is Holster Retention? - The Armory Life.

Sikorsky H-5: One Seriously Ugly Helicopter

The article "Sikorsky H-5: One Seriously Ugly Helicopter" by Will Dabbs, MD, delves into the history and significance of the Sikorsky H-5 helicopter, an early model utilized during the Korean War. Historically designated as the R-5, the helicopter was colloquially known as the "Flying Washing Machine" due to its primitive construction and tough handling. Despite its unappealing appearance, the H-5 became instrumental in military operations, notably in medevac missions, thus earning a distinguished place in aviation history.

The article explains that although aesthetically unpleasing, the H-5 was a technically advanced aircraft for its time. It featured a 450-horsepower gasoline-powered Wasp Junior radial engine, an enclosed cockpit, and an aluminum airframe which represented an evolution from its predecessor, the R-4. This advancement allowed the H-5 to perform critical tasks such as rescuing injured soldiers from rugged terrains during the Korean War. The helicopter's cramped space and challenging flight requirements, including the need to manage its center of gravity carefully, didn't deter its success in various missions.

Moreover, the Sikorsky H-5 was the first commercial helicopter under the designation S-51 and played a role in the US Navy's Antarctic Development Program. Its use in commercial operations began in the late 1940s, operating in mail and passenger delivery. Despite its many limitations, the H-5's contribution to aviation, especially in medical evacuations and harsh environment operations, paved the way for future helicopter designs. For a more comprehensive understanding, please read the original article: Sikorsky H-5: One Seriously Ugly Helicopter - The Armory Life.