Vlad the Impaler
Expert
I'm kind of hyped about the two magpul AR tools. Curious how they hold up to current tools.
Double that!
The Magpul AR wrench was nice but the vise block, with the bolt lugs to keep the torque on the barrel vs. the upper, is the cat's ass.
My biggest revalation was comparing 1X4 - 1X6 AR optics. The Steiner 1X5 rapid dot was outstanding, but way out of my league on price. Another favorite was the Vortex Razor 1-6 followed closely by the Bushnell Elite 1X6.5 SFP. Then, knocking it down in my price range, I had to go with the Vortex Viper PST which I favored to the Burris and Millet offerings. I wasn't impressed with the Leupold, which wasn't two eyes open friendly at its 1X setting.
It was a fantastic opportunity to check a bunch of optics side by side. I bought the Viper PST from Allen after deciding.
There were some cool ideas for ARs, some well executed and some not. Adcor Defense's piston with reversable charging handle was well done. I don't recall the manufacturer beside them with the switch barrel system, which bloodied my knuckles executing the clumsy set up. I noticed one of the guys running the booth with his torn up hands too, so I guess it wasn't just about practice.
Handled a Tavor for the first time. The thing is compact and somewhat heavy, but it has great balance especially when shouldered. Once I got the knack of swapping mags and dropping the bolt, I started really enjoying the lay-out. I'd like to fire one sometime.