Are Firearms and Ammunition More Popular than Ever?

The Keepshooting.com blog has been pretty stagnant this year. To date, I have only had time to write up five postings. But you have probably noticed that the lack of blogging is due in part to the tremendous increase of new products in the web store. With all my time being dedicated to adding these new products, I have yet to give our loyal customers a proper welcome to the New Year. Welcome to the year 2012. Sorry, that comes about four months too late. Now, here we are barreling into May, which can mean only one thing – we have only about eight more months to go before total annihilation (more on that later). As such, one thing seems to be on a good portion of the general population's mind – now is the perfect time to stock up on firearms and ammunition!

Firearms have always been a part of American culture, but both interest and sales seem to be skyrocketing recently. Among other things, the changing trends in government and society have led to an increase in both the interest in and the ownership of firearms in the United States. In these trying times, many people are seeking out firearms as a means of personal protection, self-defense and survival. And of course, the increase in firearm sales is accompanied by an increase in ammunition sales as well.

If any of that sounds the least bit interesting, then read on. I have got all the answers to each of your burning questions.

What Do I Know and How Do I Know It?

As I mentioned, the demand for items like pistols, modern sporting rifles (that is suit speak for rifles like the AK-47 and the AR-15) and shotguns has been on the rise in recent months. And as demand increases, supply is remaining largely unchanged. In some cases, the supply is beginning to completely dry up, as is the case with surplus arms and ammunition coming out of Ukraine. Ever the skeptic, all of this information begs one question: Where is the proof?

The proof is in the numbers. The numbers are in the press releases and earnings reports that have recently been published by some of the United States' most reputable arms manufacturers. Smith & Wesson has reported a 23.8 percent increase in net sales over the past year alone. They cite the popularity of their M&P series along with other pistols designed for personal protection and concealed carry as a strong driving force behind those sales. Moreover, as of January 31, 2012 the company's firearm backlog stood at $198.5 million, a figure that represents an increase of $124.7 million or 168.9 percent as compared to the end of the third quarter in the previous year. For those who may not have much business savvy, that means Smith & Wesson has built up $198.5 million worth of firearm sales that have yet to be fulfilled – probably due to a lack of supply. Put simply, it means people are buying a lot of firearms.

Smith & Wesson is not the only company experiencing such a high volume of orders. Big news came out of Sturm, Ruger & Company, Incorporated, more commonly known as Ruger, when CEO Michael O. Fifer made a few interesting comments in the company's March 21, 2012 press release. Since the beginning of the year, Ruger has received orders for over one million firearms and has decided to temporarily suspend the acceptance of any new orders. The company simple cannot keep up with the demand. They do, however, expect to resume the normal acceptance of orders by the end of May 2012.

Now, most distributors are being placed on allocated statuses for many pistols, modern sporting rifles and shotguns along with the most popular calibers of ammunition.

Why, Oh Why is this Happening?

We have a couple of theories as to why the demand for firearms and ammunition is so high and why the supply is somewhat lacking. Shall we begin with the supply?

Government demand for ammunition in recent years seems to be on the rise. The past three years have seen domestic U.S. government agencies ordering over 750 million rounds of .40 S&W ammunition. The Department of Homeland security alone was responsible for 200 million of those cartridges when it awarded Winchester a contract in 2009. Three years later, ATK was awarded with a contract to provide 450 million more rounds of ammunition to the same agency. As for the supply of firearms, a few seconds of thought will reveal that the demand is just too high to keep up with orders.

Speaking of the government, in case you somehow missed it 2012 is an election year. Sales of firearms typically see a marked increase in presidential election years as citizens are unaware of what the future of the office holds regarding gun control. It happened in 2008 and it is happening again now. President Obama, a noted advocate of stricter gun-control policies, is running for reelection. As such, supporters of the Second Amendment are chomping at the bit to fill out their collections in fear of the next Federal Assault Weapons Ban. But 2012 is no ordinary year, which brings us to our final point of interest.

If you were not aware, 2012 marks the end of the world as we know it. I do not claim to know the specifics of the world’s demise. Whether an asteroid will come crashing down or whether mystical space lizards will unleash their wrath upon us all – I just do not know. What I do know is that there are an awful lot of people that seem convinced it will happen this year due to the completion of a “great cycle” in the infamous Mesoamerican Long Count calendar (what they believe marks the end of that particular calendar). This is all slated to take place on December 21, 2012. The solution: buy more firearms. Everybody knows that firearms are the key to staving off the apocalypse. The belief that the world will end this year is no doubt a major contributor to the increase in firearm sales as people everywhere make their preparations for whatever lies ahead.

What is Keepshooting.com Doing about It?

I have been with the company long enough to know that our customers expect a lot from us. We are currently making every effort to ensure that we have what you need when it comes to firearms and ammunition. That means building up our inventory while inventory is still available so that we can meet your demands. You have probably noticed that we have recently begun adding a number of different firearms to our product lineup. This is accompanied by our decision to build up our supply of the most popular cartridge calibers, including .223 Remington/5.56x45mm NATO, 7.62x39mm and 9x19mm Parabellum.

You may also be pleased to hear that we have kept our prices as low as we possibly can and we plan on sticking with those low prices. This has been relatively difficult as the high demand, low supply and mandatory allocations have led vendors to increase our prices more than once.

Finally, just as the arms industry has experienced record orders, so have we. This year has been great for Keepshooting.com so far. But with those record orders come slight shipping delays. For years, we have been lauded by customers for our shipping speeds, but demand has slowed those speeds just a bit. All we ask is that you have a little patience when waiting on your order. Rest assured, your packages will arrive and meet your expectations as they always have.

SHOT Show 2012 Update – Mossberg Mania

The New Year has brought a great deal of business for us here at Keepshooting.com. For me, it means more time researching and prepping all of our great new products so that we can make them available to our customers as quickly as possible. Unfortunately, it also means less time working on our blog. But that is quite all right, you can get your fix of the same quick wit in all of our new product pages and descriptions throughout the year.

For those of you that still keep up with the blog, you may recall a post I made a few weeks ago detailing our thoughts coming out of SHOT Show 2012. If you have no idea what I am talking about, then go check out my previous post. If you are too lazy to do that, then just keep reading and I will give you a short recap.

The SHOT (Shooting, Hunting and Outdoor Trade) Show is an annual convention for those interested in shooting, hunting and the outdoors. Long story short, we went out to Las Vegas for the show and conducted a little bit of business. Towards the end of my last post, I made quick mention that the business we did there would have a big impact on Keepshooting.com and to be on the lookout for news and updates. Today, I am ready to announce one of the bigger pieces of news that came out of our trip to the SHOT Show. Keepshooting.com is now a proud…well, maybe I should just hold off a little longer for the announcement. What do you think?

Mossberg: An Extremely Brief History

Mossberg, officially known as O.F. Mossberg & Sons, has a name and a logo that would have you believe that the world-famous arms manufacturer is a Swedish company. Even I thought it was a Swedish company until I actually sought out the answer. Before you go on a Google spree, let me clear up your confusion. Mossberg is an American arms manufacturer, known primarily for their shotguns, among other products.

O.F. Mossberg & Sons was founded in 1919 by Swedish-born Oscar Frederick Mossberg alongside his two sons. That sure explains the origin of the company’s name pretty nicely, does it not? Anyway, Mossberg came to the United States in 1886, where he worked in a bicycle factory owned by Iver Johnson. Yes, that Iver Johnson.

Mossberg’s company began its manufacture of firearms in 1919 with the Mossberg Brownie, a four-barreled handgun chambered in .22LR. The Brownie had a unique design in that it included a double-action trigger as well as a rotating firing pin. With each trigger pull, the hammer is cocked and released. Additionally, the firing pin is rotated so that each chamber would fire. The success of the Brownie led the company to branch out and include .22-caliber rifles, shotguns and scopes in the product line as well. The rest is, well, history.

The company remains family owned, boasting the title of “oldest family-owned arms manufacturer in America.” It is still headquartered in New Haven, Conn.

Why Should I Buy a Mossberg Firearm?

I feel like this is sort of implicit in the last section, but Mossberg has been around since 1919. They are coming up on 100 years of arms manufacturing experience. Companies usually do not stick around that long unless they are doing something right. In that time, Mossberg has risen to the top of the ranks in the firearms, and more specifically shotgun, industry. The name is synonymous with good, quality firearms.

Mossberg supplies firearms to the Military, police and sportsmen the world over. Additionally, the company became the only arms manufacturer to supply the United States Government with pump shotguns that meet or exceed Mil-S-3443 specifications. When you get right down to it, it is very evident that the company is very concerned about its product, reputation, quality control and customer satisfaction. This can be seen in their strict adherence to the commercial standards set forth by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). In fact, Mossberg was the first American long-gun manufacturer to achieve ISO 9001 certification – just another step in their dedication to quality control. In order for a company to achieve that certification, they must undergo an intensive audit in which all aspects of the manufacturing process are scrutinized. Obviously the company passed the audit and obtained the coveted certification.

If all of that does not speak to the quality of Mossberg, my only suggestion is to get out to the range and fire one. Of course, I always recommend that you try a firearm out before purchasing it, but in this case, you can probably rest assured that any Mossberg firearm will live up to your expectations.

How is this Relevant to Keepshooting.com?

That is a great question, and I assure you it will be answered very soon. But think for a second, what could all of this talk about O.F. Mossberg & Sons have to do with Keepshooting.com? What could possibly have happened at the SHOT Show that connects our company with that of one of the world’s finest firearms manufacturers? If you have not figured it out yet, maybe I should just wait until the next post to fill you in. How does that sound?

Okay, fine I will tell you. While at the SHOT Show, we were fortunate enough to do a little business here and there, sign some paperwork and become an official Mossberg stocking dealer in Maryland (as well as online), which means a few different things.

It means that we have committed to carrying a number of firearms from the Mossberg product line. As you may know, Mossberg’s line consists of over 100 firearms. We have researched everything they have to offer and have selected 30 of their finest rifles and shotguns, all of which will soon be stocked and ready to order.

As an official Mossberg stocking dealer, it also means that we will be one of the few companies that will have an exclusive opportunity to check out and order new Mossberg firearms as they are released. When a new shotgun gets put out, you will not have to look any further than Keepshooting.com to find it.

Finally, our commitment to being an official Mossberg stocking dealer means that we will get excellent pricing on all of the Mossberg firearms we have decided to carry. Excellent pricing for us means excellent prices for you, but I am sure you realized that we like to pass the savings on to our customers long ago.

But do not expect the excitement to end there. This was just one of the many deals that took place at this year’s SHOT Show. I am sure you have noticed some of the other great products we have rolled out as a result of the SHOT Show, such as the FN FS2000 tactical and the Crosman M4-177 air rifle. Keep your eyes open for more SHOT Show updates!

SHOT Show 2012

Though you may not realize it by looking at me, I am a huge fan and avid reader of comic books. I love it all – DC, Marvel, Image and all the rest. Those are the names that take over my Wednesday evenings as I make my weekly trek up to the local comic shop to purchase a big stack of new releases. And as a comic book fan and resident of the state of Maryland, there is an annual event I usually try my best to attend – the Baltimore Comic-Con. Now, as many of you know, one of the spectacles associated with comic book fans is the comic book convention. Conventions are so much more than the large gathering of nerds clamoring over comic books and discussing ways to avoid women that the typical passerby would have you believe. They are much like any other trade show one would attend and include an enormous commercial aspect. In fact, Comic-Con International in San Diego, which usually takes place across a span of four to five days, is the United States’ largest comic book convention and brings together guests from a range of different media. I hope to one day attend. Anyway, I will get to the point. Since coming on board at Keepshooting.com, there is another convention that has caught my eye – the SHOT Show.

For those of you who may be unaware, the SHOT (Shooting, Hunting and Outdoor Trade) Show is an annual convention for those interested in shooting, hunting and the outdoors. But it is not limited to those industries exclusively. It is much more encompassing. That said some of us here at Keepshooting.com were fortunate enough to make it out to the event this year. While I was not one of those fortunate individuals, I was told that this year’s event was a good one. And if word of mouth is not enough to make you a believer, I have a few highlights for you. Read on for a recap of just a few of the things we took away from SHOT Show 2012.

2012 Will be Huge

As many of you know, 2012 is slated to be a huge year in general. This year ushers in another presidential election, which is always big news and always has some type of effect on our industry. However, 2012 also marks the completion of a “great cycle” in the Mesoamerican Long Count Calendar, which many believe will mark the end of the world. These two events will, without a doubt, bring about a huge spike in the demand for firearms, ammunition and survival products. As always, people worry about what a regime change in Washington can mean for laws related to firearms. As a precaution, people start buying. And as if it was not perfectly clear what a world-changing disaster could mean to our way of life, people feel the need to stock up on survival gear in hopes of making it through the end of the world. The demand has already reached new heights and will only grow higher as we move closer to the end of the year. Fear not, though. Keepshooting.com has you covered. While at SHOT Show, we shook some hands, signed some deals and did some business that will ensure our continued ability to offer you a wide range of products at competitive prices.

New Products

Much like Comic-Con International is known for unveiling upcoming comic books and the like, SHOT Show is very much known for pulling the curtain back on brand new products related to shooting, hunting and the outdoors. To say the least, we were pretty underwhelmed by the new products introduced this year. In the interest of time, I am only going to discuss two of the new products – one we liked and one we did not.

First up is the product we liked – the Springfield XDs. As the owner of a Springfield XD .45, any future Springfield XD will get my seal of approval. The XD line of pistols is exactly what a pistol should be – accurate, durable and reliable. There really is not much else to say about it. So why would we be unimpressed by another XD available in .45, but presented in a much smaller package? Well we aren’t. The Springfield XDs is an ultra-compact pistol, chambered in .45 ACP. It accepts a single stack 5-round magazine for a 5+1 capacity in a pistol that boasts an overall length of 6.3 inches, a height of 4 inches and a width of 1 inch. The pistol also features a barrel that is only 3.3 inches long. Basically, it is an extremely concealable pistol with a great deal of power. It is the concealed carry pistol. Look for it later this year.

Now on to what we were not so impressed with – the StG 44 in .22LR from GSG/ATI. Now, it would not be very productive to run this product into the dirt, so I will just give our honest opinion and leave it at that. It seems that each time this rifle is brought to a show, the quality decreases. Parts that used to be made of metal now appear to be made using some type of plastic, which gives the rifles the appearance of an airsoft rifle. We do not see it being a very smart buy at its current price.

AR-15 Parts

I like AR-15s. I just finished building one. But is there any company that does not sell parts for the AR-15? It is almost like selling AR-15 parts has “jumped the shark.” The only thing left for companies to do is start a race to the bottom and try to offer their product at the lowest price, which is not good for any parties involved. If that happens, companies will suffer slim to nonexistent profit margins on AR-15 parts as they drop prices to stay competitive. I would not be surprised if we start seeing mil-spec lower receivers in the $50 range or so. This will leave companies with no other option but to save on manufacturing costs, leading to parts with sub-par quality. My advice is to watch out when trying to save a few bucks on your next build.

Surplus Firearms Market

Most people familiar with Keepshooting.com probably know that the Mosin Nagant 91/30 is one of our more popular items. However, it looks like the market for surplus firearms may be about to dry up. Here are a few quick thoughts on the subject:

- More 91/30s are being brought into Europe and turned into de-milled collectibles than are being sold to the United States.

- Those same European importers are buying up numerous U.S. lend-lease firearms from all over the world to be de-milled for their market.

- Several small arms exporter nations are in the process of joining the European Union, which will bring about radical changes in their regulatory agencies and the sale of regulated goods.

People have been speculating on the state of the surplus market for years, but it is looking more and more like now is the time to fill out your collection.

Endorsements

Just because a product has an endorsement from what appears to be a reputable organization, does not mean the product is worthy of your hard-earned money. One thing we noticed was the great deal of vendors that carried products with identical endorsements. It really makes one wonder whether the endorsement carries the same weight. Perhaps it is due to these goods being manufactured by the same Chinese OEMs. Maybe they paid for the endorsement. Do your research before buying a product; do not buy it because some tactical organization gave it their approval.

That is about it for now. Like I said earlier, we conducted a lot of business at the 2012 SHOT Show. Be on the lookout for great new products from Keepshooting.com. We cannot say much right now, but we think you will be pleasantly surprised.

Keepshooting.com Brand Firearm Magazines

Keepshooting.com is a business that is customer-driven, as any good business should be. After all, without a solid customer base, we wouldn’t even be around. I guess what I am trying to say is that without our customers, we would be nowhere. It is because of you guys that we carry the products that we do.  Thanks for that. But I cannot give you guys all the credit. You see, many of us here at Keepshooting.com are avid shooters, as I am sure many of you are. When we decide to have certain products designed and manufactured, such as our Keepshooting.com brand firearm magazines, we cut no corners. We spare no details. We know that in addition to satisfying our customers 100 percent, the magazines must also satisfy us. Why? To be perfectly honest, we use them too. Basically, they are made with you in mind but must meet our standards for performance as well. I am currently in the process of building my first AR-15. When it is complete and ready to fire, I will look no further than our own warehouse for magazines because I know them to be not only reliable, but exceptionally well made.

You still haven’t sold me…

We cannot stress enough the amount of faith we have put in our magazines. As noted, when we decide to design and manufacture a new magazine, it is done with our customers in mind. It is always our goal to produce magazines that are not only 100 percent functional, but also 100 percent reliable. They are not released to the public until that goal has been met. How can we be sure that our magazines meet these performance standards? We rigorously field test a random sampling of every magazine we produce. If we do not have the firearm that accepts the magazine, we buy it. That is how dedicated we are to providing you with products of only the highest quality. Each magazine field test includes ensuring proper fitting, feeding and ejection. If even one of these tests fails in the slightest bit, the entire batch is rejected, redesigned and reproduced. If you question the fact that we field test our magazines, just check out the product page associated with any of the Keepshooting.com brand magazines and watch the video located there. Each video shows a small portion of the testing our magazines go through to give you peace of mind. Additionally, you can read some of our other customers’ reviews. Almost all of our magazines have received scores of five-star reviews from satisfied customers.

Our magazines are made with quality materials using modern manufacturing methods. It sounds expensive, and it is, but we are still able to offer you the most affordable prices you can find. It might also interest you to know that over 100,000 Keepshooting.com brand magazines are in the hands of actual, satisfied customers.

If that is not good enough, our magazines also come with a guarantee. We guarantee the functionality and reliability of all our magazines 100 percent. If for any reason you are unsatisfied with the performance of your magazine, it can be returned for a refund of the purchase price. Returns are limited to magazines that are free from modification, damage or visible signs of wear.

Okay I am in, what have you got?

Now that I have your interest, I would like to highlight a few of our magazines. We have designed and manufactured original magazines for pistols, rifles and shotguns. Additionally, we have been the first company to offer reproduction magazines for firearms that have never before had reproductions made – namely the MP44/StG44 and the M3 “Grease Gun,” both of which are positively reviewed. Furthermore, we were the first company to offer affordably-priced magazines for the Saiga-12, as well as Crosby Thompson drums – both of which boast performances that are on par with the originals.

Being that we also carry a good selection of military surplus items, we thought it would be a great idea to design and manufacture magazines for surplus firearms to meet a market with high demand and low supply. Check out our magazines for the Makarov, CZ 52 and the P-64 – we think you will be impressed.

Having said all that, I would now like to introduce you to a few of our heavy hitters.

Walther P22 Magazine – Our Best-Selling Magazine

Deciding upon the Walther P22 magazine was a no-brainer. It seems we were right to choose this magazine for production because it turned out to be our best seller.

The Walther P22 is a blowback-operated, semi-automatic pistol that features both a polymer frame and single/double action. The P22 is one of Walther Arms’ most successful pistols to date. It is chambered only for the .22 LR rimfire cartridge.

All owners of the Walther P22 have likely faced a similar issue – finding spare magazines at an affordable price. If this sounds at all familiar, it is time to put your mind at ease. The Keepshooting.com Walther P22 magazine is a stainless steel, single stack box magazine that holds 10 rounds of .22 LR ammunition. The magazine also features a finger rest floor plate and, like all of our magazines, comes with a guarantee.

M1 Carbine 30-Round Magazine

The introduction of the M2 carbine in early 1945 also saw the introduction of a 30-round magazine, which allowed soldiers to haul twice as much ammunition. Well, we thought we could improve on the design and offer a higher-quality product. This was our result.

The M1 carbine is a gas-operated, semi-automatic carbine that features a rotating bolt and fires the .30 carbine (7.62x33mm) cartridge. Its light weight and ease-of-use made it a wildly popular service rifle for the United States during World War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War. The rifle has since become prevalent in the civilian market and found usage throughout numerous foreign nations.

The Keepshooting.com M1 carbine magazine is a staggered box magazine that holds 30 rounds of .30 carbine ammunition. As I mentioned, we did our best to produce a 30-round magazine for the M1 carbine that exceeds the performance of the originals. Some of the features we decided to include are the 15-round style follower (as opposed to bolt hold open followers) and a Teflon®-based finish. The idea behind the finish is that it provides superior corrosion protection and reduced resistance on all moving parts, providing for a well-fitting, well-feeding magazine.

CZ 82 Magazine – Coming Soon to Keepshooting.com!

Back in 2001, Česká zbrojovka, better known as CZ, ceased production of all 9x18mm Makarov 12-round CZ 82 magazines – making original factory-produced CZ 82 magazines very hard to find at a reasonable price. Lucky for you, the lack of supply inspired us to have our very own CZ 82 magazine machined so that we can offer you the right magazine at the right price.

The CZ 82 is a double-action, semi-automatic pistol that features a traditional blowback system of operation. The pistol was designed in 1982 by Augustin Nečas for the Czechoslovakian military, where it served proudly for 10 years. The Keepshooting.com CZ 82 magazines are staggered box magazines that hold 12 rounds of 9x18mm Makarov (9mm Makarov) ammunition. Like the M1 carbine magazines, we believe we have produced a magazine that is capable of outperforming the originals. Features such as the fully heat treated body, laser welding and high-strength follower spring make this magazine one worthy of your hard-earned money. Then there is the fact that we opted to spend more money on the magazines for the inclusion of a thicker, milled floor plate as opposed to the thinner, stamped floor plate in order to deliver a better product.

While the CZ 82 magazine is not yet available, it will be here sometime in the next 90 days. You should probably check out the product page and sign up to be notified of its arrival – we fully expect the first batch to sell out in record time.

That is it folks – everything you need to know about Keepshooting.com brand magazines. Hopefully I have convinced a few of you to hop off the fence and try one out. After all, it is a risk free purchase. You have nothing to lose.

Gas Mask Filters

Lots of cool things use filters -- coffee machines, vacuums, cars and much more. You wouldn’t use any of these items without their respective filters, and you wouldn’t dare use a gas mask without a gas mask filter. Well fear not, Keepshooting.com is here to give you all the information you need about gas mask filters. We offer a variety of filters and chances are we have the right one for you. 

Gas Mask Filters 101

If you’ve seen a gas mask, you’ve likely seen a gas mask filter. It is important to understand how the filters work before trying to use them. Gas mask filters work by utilizing one or more of three different purification techniques -- particle filtration, chemical absorption/adsorption and chemical reactions. Let’s take a closer look at what each of these means.

- Particle filtration – This is the most simple purification technique. When a filter employs particle filtration, it uses a very fine particulate filter. The holes in the filter are so small – less than one micron in size – that many biological particulates are unable to make their way through, allowing only breathable air to pass. Eventually, these filters become saturated with biological particulates, becoming ineffective and requiring replacement.

- Chemical absorption/adsorption – Often, chemical threats aren’t susceptible to particle filtration due to their gaseous nature. In these cases, we rely on chemical absorption and adsorption. Absorption is the process by which one state of matter – in this case gas – is incorporated into another state of matter – solid or liquid. Adsorption is the physical bond that can occur between the molecules of one substance and the surface of another. In filters that utilize this technique, activated charcoal is often used. Charcoal is a form of carbon. Activated charcoal is charcoal that has been treated with oxygen, resulting in millions of tiny holes opening between the carbon atoms. This offers a large surface area with plenty of room for chemicals to bond to the charcoal, allowing the safe passage of air through the filter.

- Chemical reaction – Remember my article about the Finnish M61 Gas Mask? I mentioned the hypo helmet from World War I.  The hypo helmet was basically a cloth mask fitted over the head of a soldier and was treated with glycerin and thiosulphate. The idea behind this was that the thiosulphate would react with the chlorine gas, rendering it inert. This is the same idea behind filters that utilize the chemical reaction technique. Later in World War I, hexamethylenetetramine was used to protect soldiers against phosgene gas.

What we offer

At Keepshooting.com, we offer a variety of gas mask filters. Most gas masks use the NATO standard filter, a gas mask filter canister with a 40mm attachment. These filters will work with Israeli, Russian, German and most US models. Also available, though less common, is the 60mm filter, which works with many older US, Canadian and Finnish models. We also offer an adaptor, which allows 40mm filters to be used with 60mm gas masks.

We also carry M10 gas mask filters, designed specially for use with the Czech M10 or M10M model gas masks.

Most of our filters are under $10, so stock up before it’s too late.

Why should I buy it?

Gas masks offer plenty of practical uses:

- Painting

- Chemistry

- Yard work

- Personal protection

 Without the use of a proper gas mask filter, the mask will not protect against anything. If you’re only buying a gas mask for its looks, at less than $10 you may consider buying a filter along with it to complete the look.

Finnish Gas Mask Model M61

We here are Keepshooting.com like to believe that we are a customer-driven company. When you speak, we listen. So when I realized how much our customers love the Finnish gas mask model M61 (our top selling gas mask), I couldn’t help but write up a blog post to give those who have already fallen in love with it, and those who soon will, a little more information about the mask customers are calling an “awesome product for an awesome value.”

History Lesson

A gas mask is a type of mask worn over the face, typically forming a seal around the mouth and nose, and is designed to protect the wearer from several different hazards, including toxic gases and airborne pollutants. Often, gas masks also cover the wearer’s eyes and other susceptible parts of the face.

I wanted to learn a little more about the history of gas masks, so I did a little research and found out from Popular Mechanics that as far back as ancient Greece, people were using sponges as a crude form of gas mask. Fast forward to World War I, and we get the precursor to the modern military gas masks with which we are all more familiar. World War I saw a spike in chemical warfare with the introduction of chlorine, phosgene and mustard gas. The need to protect troops from these gases lead to the development of the hypo helmet in 1915, a fabric mask fitted over the head of a soldier and soaked in a chemical absorbing solution of glycerin and sodium thiosulphate. Though this original gas mask only protected against chlorine gas, the P helmet was developed to offer additional protection with the introduction of phosgene gas. As history progressed, the development of gas masks mirrored the advancement of chemical and biological warfare.

What is it?

The Finnish model 61 is a Finnish gas mask and was manufactured by Nokia. Yes, the very same Nokia that made the cell phone on which you probably played your first game of “Snake.” A modified version of the US M9 gas mask, the M61 was standard issue for the Finnish army, a branch of the Finnish Defense Forces. Over the years, the mask has undergone several design changes, resulting in three different generations of the M61.  We offer both second and third generation models. The second generation had minor changes to the exhalation valve while the third generation saw the addition of a speech diaphragm.

This mask is a side-mounted gas mask, meaning the filter attaches to the side of the mask.  Speaking of filters, this mask is designed to be used with 60mm filters, but we do offer an adapter so that the mask can be fitted with standard 40mm filters.

The M61 is made of heavy-duty, form-fitting gray rubber and includes a 60mm filter for only $11.95.

Why should I buy it?

At $11.95, I think a more appropriate question would be, “Why shouldn’t I buy it?” Aside from being just plain cool-looking, the M61 was designed to protect against toxic gases and airborne pollutants and it does just that. 

Though you may not find yourself in such a dire situation, this gas mask may find use in many different circles and is great for:

- Painting

- Chemistry

- Yard work (If you don’t mind looking great in public)

- Paintball

- Halloween costumes

- Stage prop

- Movie production

While you’re here, why not check out our gas mask carrying bag, gas mask filters, or one of our many gas mask accessories.

Why Did My Gore-Tex® Stop Working?

So, it is officially winter time and we here on the east coast have become plagued with cold, rainy weather. To combat it, you’ve gone out and bought yourself a brand new Gore-Tex® jacket – nothing wrong with that, I have one myself. The problem, however, is that after regular usage you’ve come to notice some performance problems. Perhaps the outer shell of your garment has stopped repelling water and has instead begun absorbing it. Don’t fret! I have the perfect solution to restore your Gore-Tex® to its former glory.

But first, let’s cover the Gore-Tex® essentials for those readers who may be unfamiliar with the product. Gore-Tex® is a synthetic fabric that is waterproof, windproof and breathable. It is guaranteed to keep you dry and comfortable and used in a wide range of applications including, but not limited to: high performance fabrics, medical implants, insulation and gaskets.

So how does it work?

Good question. The first thing you must understand is that the outer shell of your jacket is not actually made from Gore-Tex®. The Gore-Tex® is a membrane sewn into the garment between the outer shell and the inner lining. It features a micro porous structure that is composed of tiny little holes that are about 20,000 times smaller than a water droplet, which ensures that water cannot seep through. To enhance the water-resistance, garments that feature Gore-Tex® are also treated with a durable water repellent, or DWR. The DWR causes water to bead up and roll right off the jacket, rather than absorbing it. With the fabric free from wetness, evaporative heat loss is reduced and body heat is able to pass through the garment freely.

Then what is the problem?

I’ve given you a lot of great information about Gore-Tex® and how it works, but it sure seems like I am sidestepping the water absorption and treatment issues, does it not? Well, like most things, prolonged use and every day wear and tear tend to cause things to break down. You may notice that your once amazing jacket now seems to absorb water and feels a little heavier than normal. The perceived problem with the Gore-Tex® fabric is actually a problem caused by the DWR, which over time gets worn out just like everything else. Remember, the Gore-Tex® is a membrane sewn into the interior of the garment and is likely functioning just fine. The DWR is a treatment applied to the outer shell and its effect can wear off after time. Unfortunately, there is no water-repellent treatment that provides a permanent effect. However, as long as the treatment is still present on the garment, it can be rejuvenated.

Quick! Tell me how!

If you’re going to rush me and get unruly then I am not going to tell you. Now, there are certain tell-tale signs that your DWR treatment has begun to wear off and your jacket requires a quick boost. If your jacket appears wet on the outside or feels heavy due to water absorption, it is probably a good time to treat it. Sometimes condensation may appear on the inner lining. This is likely due to the fact that the outer shell is wet, which prevents evaporative heat loss and allows warm air to condense on the inside. If this sounds like your jacket then read on.

The best way to get your Gore-Tex® jacket back in tip top shape is to keep it clean. That’s all – just give it a good washing. But how do I clean my Gore-Tex®? It’s easy – just machine wash the jacket in warm water and tumble dry on low to medium heat. The only suggestion (made by the inventors) is that you use a powdered detergent rather than any liquid detergent. As always, before cleaning, washing or laundering any garment, make sure you consult the care instructions.

That’s about it folks. The secret to bringing your Gore-Tex® jacket back to life is cleaning it.

M1A2 Rifle Grenade Adapter

There could be any number of reasons why you visit my blog. Perhaps it’s the intriguing history lessons; maybe it’s the scintillating language (probably not). However, I am willing to bet that a big reason you’re here is your fascination with firearms. Handguns, rifles and shotguns are your life’s blood, but sometimes that 7.62x39 mm just doesn’t cut it. If your itching to fire something that packs a bigger punch, what you need is a rifle grenade. Like always, Keepshooting.com has just what you need to start launching grenades over 100 yards downrange. We offer an excellent reproduction of the M1A2 rifle grenade adapter that will turn your good day into a great day.

History Lesson: Rifle Grenades and Rifle Grenade Launchers

A rifle grenade is a grenade that is fired from a rifle-based launcher. This configuration provides a greater range than if the grenade had been tossed by hand. Additionally, a grenade fired from a rifle has a higher rate of accuracy than a hand-tossed grenade and can be fired from any rifle fitted with an appropriate flash suppressor or spigot-type rifle grenade launcher.

According to “The International Military Digest Annual,” Colonel Amazawa of the Japanese military was the first to experiment with rifle grenades during the Russo-Japanese War in 1904. It wasn’t until World War I that they found widespread use.

Early designs saw grenades fitted with long stems that were fed into the barrel of a rifle and propelled by a blank cartridge. This method caused severe damage to the barrels after repeated use and led to the development of rifle grenade adapters. These adapters appropriately fitted hand grenades with a hollow stem and tail fins. It was the Japanese army that developed these adapters, as well as a new type of rifle grenade launcher. These new spigot-type launchers were hollow tubes that were fitted over the muzzle and also required the use of a blank cartridge. This became a popular setup, as several countries adopted it just prior to World War II.

Today, standalone grenade launchers specifically designed to fire grenades are often used in favor of rifle grenade launchers. There are also attachments that are mounted underneath the barrel of a rifle. Many rifles are even produced with spigot-type launchers as part of their integral flash suppressors, removing any need for a muzzle-mounted attachment.

What is it?

The M1A2 is a rifle grenade adapter, originally adopted in the early years of WWII, designed to allow a hand grenade to be fired from a rifle grenade launcher. A hand grenade is mounted to the end attachment with the spoon placed in the arming clip. Then, the piece is fitted over a rifle grenade launcher or flash suppressor. After being fired, inertia causes the arming clip to drop off, allowing the spoon to pull away from the grenade effectively arming it.

Due to the scarcity of original M1A2 rifle grenade adapters, we had these adapters specially manufactured for Keepshooting.com according to the original USGI drawings. Each adapter is made to the exact specifications as the original. Additionally, to avoid having these resold as originals, all of our adapters are marked with “LOT KS” as opposed to the original “LOT UOD.”

The M1A2 adapter works perfectly with our M14 grenade launcher, as well as the Yugoslavian SKS and any 22 mm grenade launcher or flash suppressor.

For $39.95, you will receive a complete rifle grenade, including both the M1A2 adapter and a dummy “pineapple” grenade!

Check out this video we made to see one in action:

Why should I buy it?

What could be more fun that turning a tennis ball or dummy grenade into a rifle grenade and firing it hundreds of yards downrange? Not much. With the M1A2 rifle grenade adapter, you can do just that.

Even if you don’t plan on firing it, it may still find other uses, such as:

- Display item

- Reenactments

- Stage production

- Movie prop

- Collectors

Don’t hesitate. Pull the trigger on this high-caliber deal today!

M65 Field Jacket

Everyone knows that winter means one thing – cold weather. Of course some people may associate other things with the season, but those subfreezing temperatures are what really stand out. Without a tough jacket or coat, you’re in for one miserable winter. But don’t let the misery sink in just yet; you still have a few options. You could purchase one of those high-dollar, “all style, no substance” jackets that seem to populate the streets. Choose this option and you’ll likely continue shivering as you scrape your windows every day prior to your morning commute. If this doesn’t sound appealing, consider purchasing a fashionable, functional M65-style jacket from Keepshooting.com at a fraction of the cost. We offer a great Austrian M65 field jacket for only $37.95.

History Lesson

The M65, officially designated the M-1965 field jacket, is a wildly popular military jacket introduced in 1965 for the United States Armed Forces during the Vietnam War. It was developed as a replacement for the M-1951 field jacket and included several key design changes, including: a built-in hood that could be stored in a collar pouch, Velcro® fasteners providing adjustable cuffs and a straight collar. The M65 was the culmination of the ever-evolving field jacket that began with the M-1941, better known as the olive drab cotton field jacket.

M-1941 Field Jacket

Generally known as the olive drab cotton field jacket, the M-1941 saw service in the early years of World War II before being phased out by the M-1943. It was very reminiscent of the common windbreaker, utilizing a cotton outer shell and a wool flannel lining. It featured a zipper front closure with a button flap, adjustable button tabs on the cuff and the waistline, two slash pockets, and a lapel collar with buttons for a detachable hood.

M-1943 Field Jacket

The M-1943 field jacket served as a replacement for the inadequate M-1941. Unlike the M-1941, the new design extended down to the upper thigh. This jacket featured a button closure, detachable hood, drawstring waist, notched-lapel collar, two breast pockets and two skirt pockets. This model was briefly followed by the M-1950.

M-1950 Field Jacket

The major difference between the M-1950 and the M-1943 was the addition of interior buttons designed for a button-in jacket liner. This model was quickly replaced by the M-1951.

M-1951 Field Jacket

The M-1951 was very similar to the M-1950, though it did have some design changes. The major differences were the use of wind and water resistant fabric and a zipper with snap fasteners as opposed to buttons. As previously stated, this model was replaced by the M65, which included the aforementioned changes.

What is it?

The Austrian M65 field jacket is the Austrian-made version of the famous M65, popularized by American troops during the Vietnam War. As this is an Austrian jacket, there are some differences from the American-made model, most notably the lack of Velcro® cuffs and snap fasteners.

The jacket is constructed from a cotton/polyester blend and is both water and wind resistant. It is a used, military surplus item in great condition and comes in medium, large and extra large sizes. Features of this jacket include:

- Authentic Austrian military surplus

- Zipper closure with button storm flap

- Adjustable button cuffs

- Interior drawstring for a fitted waist

- Five total pockets, including: two breast pockets, two skirt pockets and one interior pocket

- Built-in hood housed in zippered collar pouch

Also available, are two authentic Austrian military patches: the Österreich Bundesheer (Austrian Armed Forces) shoulder patch and the airborne wings breast patch.

Why should I buy it?

It’s a cold, cold world. You need something to protect you from the elements and this jacket is the total package. Serviceable yet stylish, it’s a great alternative that ensures you won’t be “that guy” in the camouflage military jacket. Make this your choice for:

- Cold winter weather

- Skiing/snowboarding

- Hunting

- Paintball

If for some reason you struggle to see the greatness of this jacket, Keepshooting.com has a wide variety of jackets and parkas that may be more your cup of tea. Check out the Swedish M90 parka or the Italian army jacket.

Wait a second…

If you’re wondering where you may have seen this jacket, I have a question for you: “You talkin’ to me? You talkin’ to me?” That’s right, Robert De Niro’s character Travis Bickle wears the famous M65 field jacket in Martin Scorsese’s “Taxi Driver.”

That’s not the only place you may have seen it though. The jacket is so popular that even Nike® has produced an M65-style jacket.

Dummy “Pineapple” Grenade

If you were anything like me as a child, playing “war” after school was a daily occurrence. Imagination shaped the battlefields, forts were built in the woods and tree branches served as rifles. Perhaps the most memorable aspect, however, was the deadly pinecone grenade. Seeing one of those bounce your way inspired fear and spelled instant doom. They were, of course, so sought after due to their visual similarity (in the eyes of a child) to the Mk 2 “pineapple” grenade. Well, now we are all a little older and it’s time to turn in your pinecones for something just a bit closer to the real thing. Keepshooting.com offers a wealth of dummy ordnance and ammunition, including the iconic “pineapple” grenade, at a price that makes arming your imaginative army very cost-effective.

What is it?

The Mk 2 is an antipersonnel, fragmentation grenade originally designed in 1918 to replace the Mk 1, which suffered from field safety issues. It was developed for use by the United States military and was used primarily in World War II, though it saw limited service in the Vietnam War and other conflicts. It was replaced by the M26, which is noted for its more controlled blast radius.

Made from cast iron, the Mk 2 generally operated on a delayed-detonation fuze with flaked TNT filling, though some variants utilized EC blank fire powder. It is sometimes referred to as a “pineapple” grenade due to its shape and external serrations, which give it the appearance of the fruit bearing the same name. Its unique design was thought to have aided in fragmentation, though more realistically only served to enhance the user’s grip.

Its paint scheme has varied over time, including a pre-1943, all-yellow design used to correspond with the color code for “high explosive ordnance.” This presented an obvious problem due to its high visibility in the field. To combat this, the grenades were painted olive drab with a yellow stripe around the top of the fuze well.

There is also a practice version of the Mk 2, designated as the M21, which is painted blue and stamped with “RFX” (Richmond Foundry and Manufacturing Co.) on the side of the body.

The dummy pineapple grenade offered by Keepshooting.com is a reproduction of the M21, the practice version of the Mk 2. This can be seen in the distinctive “RFX” stamp on the side of the grenade and the hollow, non-threaded hole at its base. We offer both olive drab and non-painted variations, each of which includes an exclusive fuze. The olive drab grenade comes with the M213 fuze (used on current USGI M67s) while the non-painted version comes with the M228 (used on current M69 training grenades).

Beware! Some retailers market these dummy grenades as authentic, inert Mk 2s or M21s and charge a higher price.

Why should I buy it?

The dummy “pineapple” grenade provides a cheap alternative to more expensive and authentic, inert ordnance. Plus, they look a lot cooler than pinecones! Great for collections, they also make an excellent addition to any reenactor’s arsenal.

This product is a great choice for:

- Collectors

- Reenactments

- Halloween costumes

- Stage props

- Movie production

- Display

- Gifts

Check out what one of our customers had to say:

“This grenade is a definite must-have for any collector, and with the $9.95 price, it blows other sites’ prices away. Having just received one a few weeks back, I am now the envy of all my friends! I would definitely recommend this to any collector!”

As he mentions, this piece is only $9.95. With a price that low, you’ll be able to pick up some of our other dummy grenades as well, such as the “baseball” grenade and the “lemon” grenade. You may also consider our M1A2 rifle grenade adapter.

How does a grenade work?

The functionality of a grenade is reliant on its detonation mechanism, which may either be ignited by impact or a time-delay fuze. The Mk 2 operated on a time-delayed fuze.

In general, for the grenade to explode, the firing pin must strike the primer in order to set off a series of events. However, the firing pin is held in place, under spring tension, by a striker lever (spoon) that is in turn held in place by a safety pin. Pulling the safety pin allows the spoon to pull away from the grenade. Once a grenade is thrown, the spoon pulls away from the grenade, allowing the firing pin to make contact with the primer, which creates a spark. The spark ignites a slow-burn fuze, which will burn down until it ignites the detonator and causes an explosion. This explosion will ignite the explosive material found inside the grenade, in this case TNT. The result is a very big boom, the dispersal of fragmentation, and the displeasure of those surrounding it.

Spare Parts for the G3/HK91/PTR91 and the Walther P38/P1

As of writing this article, Halloween is but a few days away (of course by the time you read this it will be a distant memory), and I cannot help but think about one of my favorite novels – Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein.” Morality, life and death, creation and destruction, abandonment and alienation and Victor Frankenstein’s god complex are each explored in this enduring classic that makes for a perfect October read. At this point, you may be asking yourself how “Frankenstein” is connected to the G3/HK91/PTR91 or the Walther P38/P1. Well, here is another question: Where would Victor Frankenstein be without his spare parts? One less monster, that’s where. Face it, spare parts are important. Whether you’re building your very own homunculus or repairing a firearm, spare parts are a must. That’s why Keepshooting.com offers a wealth of spare parts for the G3/HK91/PTR91 and the Walther P38/P1.

The Importance of Spare Parts

At some point during its lifespan, every machine needs repair. Whether it be a car, a bike or a clock, some part will break and require service. The same holds true for firearms. Each component of a firearm relies on a series of parts to function properly. There are parts for the action, barrel, ejector, extractor, frame, grip, magazine, recoil, sights, slide and the trigger group. When one of these parts fails, the firearm may fail and if it is not repaired or replaced, the firearm remains out of commission. Think about what would happen if your kidneys failed. Without a replacement from a donor, your body would shut down. Wouldn’t it be nice if there was a website that offered spare body parts to ensure your body remains in great working order? Well Keepshooting.com offers spare parts for the G3/HK91/PTR91 and the Walther P38/P1 to ensure that they remain in great working order.

Another aspect of spare parts to consider is their availability. Let’s go back to the kidneys. Someone with chronic kidney disease needs a donor kidney to get well. However, donor kidneys are not readily available, which may present a serious problem to the person in need. Similarly, firearm parts are not always readily available. Without the right part, your firearm may never be repaired.

Keepshooting.com has a wealth of authentic factory parts from Heckler & Koch and Walther for the G3/HK91/PTR91 and the P38/P1, respectively. Now is the time to take advantage of their availability.

G3/HK91/PTR91

The G3 is a 7.62 mm selective-fire, automatic firearm designed by Mauser, Heckler & Koch (H&K) and Centro de Estudios Técnicos de Materiales Especiales (CETME) and was officially adopted by the West German Army in 1959. Several variants have been manufactured for military, law enforcement, and civilian use. The HK91 is a civilian variant of the G3 and is also manufactured by H&K. It is a semi-automatic firearm with special modifications that prevent fully automatic fire. The PTR91 is an American-made copy of the G3/HK91 manufactured in Connecticut by PTR-91 Inc. Like the HK91, the PTR91 is a semi-automatic firearm marketed to civilians.

We offer several parts that are interchangeable for the G3/HK91/PTR91, including H&K G3 magazines, firing pins and the H&K G3 SEF trigger pack as well as various screws, springs and washers.

Walther P38/P1

The Walther P38 is a 9 mm semi-automatic pistol designed by Walther in 1938, though production did not begin until 1939. The pistol was selected to replace the Luger P08 (a personal favorite) as the official service pistol of the Wehrmacht, the unified armed forces of Nazi Germany from 1935 to 1945. The P38 was in production from 1938 until 1963, though production was brought to a halt between the years 1945 and 1957. The P1 is a post-war redesign of the P38, with the most drastic change being the switch from a steel frame to an aluminum alloy frame. P38s were still produced from 1957 to 1963 alongside P1s. They can be easily differentiated by the stamping of “P38” or “P1” on the left-hand side of the slide.

Like the G3/HK91/PTR91, the parts we offer for the P38/P1 are interchangeable. We have a large amount of original Walther parts, including the Walther P38/P1 magazine, rear sight packs, firing pins and many more.

Don’t miss this opportunity to stock up on spare parts for some of the most iconic firearms ever produced. They won’t be around forever.

On the Origin of UZI Stocks

Way back in 1859, Charles Darwin published his still-controversial theory of evolution in a little book titled “On the Origin of Species.” Darwin maintained that all life has descended over time from common ancestry, a process resulting from his theory of natural selection. Basically, certain inherited traits become more or less prevalent based on their usefulness for survival. Ever wondered why some animals have opposable thumbs and others do not? Well, I’m not going to tell you; but I do have some equally fascinating information. So listen up Homo sapiens, because today I present what may become my magnum opus in “On the Origin of UZI Stocks.” Just as human lineage has been plotted from chimpan-A to chimpan-Z, so too will I plot the lineage of UZI stocks, including several of which are available now from Keepshooting.com.

The UZI

The UZI is an open bolt, blowback-operated submachine gun named for its designer, Uziel Gal. Originally designed in the late 1940s, the UZI was officially adopted in 1951 and introduced to Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) in 1954. The magazine is housed in the pistol grip, which allows for a shorter firearm. This is made possible by the inventive telescoping bolt. Originally fitted with a quick detachment wooden stock, the UZI is most often seen with a folding metal stock, though there have been several incarnations and variations over the years.

The Evolution of the UZI stock

As mentioned, the UZI was originally fitted with a quick detachment wooden stock. Most of the stocks developed for the UZI are wooden stocks and variations of the original, with the exception of two folding metal stocks and a polymer stock. Several aftermarket stocks have also been developed for the UZI. In this article, only stocks manufactured by Israeli Military Industries (IMI) will be discussed.

First Generation Stock, “Type 1”

The original stock developed for the UZI was a quick detachment wooden stock. This stock has a flat comb and butt. The butt is shaped with a groove to allow the attachment of a butt plate. The butt plates used on these stocks have a hinge that provides access to holes in the stock that allow for the storage of a cleaning rod and oil bottle.

Second Generation Stock, “Type 2”

The second generation IMI stock is very similar in design to the original. The glaring difference with this stock is in its size. It is about 2-inches longer than the original.

Third Generation Stock, “Type 3”

The third generation IMI stock is very reminiscent of the original as well. Still utilizing a straight comb, the butt was designed specifically to fit perfectly with the butt plates. Like its predecessor, this stock was also longer than the original, though only by about one inch. The last major change is the removal of the storage holes.

Fourth Generation, “Type 4”

This stock is near identical to its predecessor, the only difference being a change in the shape of the comb. While the combs on all previous stocks were straight, this stock utilizes a curved comb. Additionally, IMI produced variants of these stocks that allowed them to be permanently mounted on the firearm.

Fifth Generation, “Type 5”

This stock represented a marked design change, as it was the first non-wooden stock developed for the UZI. The Type 5 folding metal stock was originally designed in the 1960s to replace the wooden stocks originally found on the UZI. The stock attaches to the receiver and folds in two places, allowing for a quick extension. When not is use, the stock folds conveniently under the receiver.

Sixth Generation, “Type 6”

Also a folding metal stock, the Type 6 stock was developed for use with the Mini-Uzi and is considerably different from the Type 5. This stock is attached to a hinge welded on the rear of the receiver and folds to the side rather than under the receiver.

Seventh Generation, “Type 7”

The final IMI-manufactured stock is a polymer stock, made of plastic, and is near identical to the Type 4 wooden stock. Like the Type 4, this stock is also available as a quick detachment or permanent variant. 

Stockpile our UZI stocks

Keepshooting.com is proud to offer two different UZI stocks at the lower than low prices you’ve come to expect.

The Type 4 wooden stock is the quick detachment variant and includes all hardware required to mount the stock on your UZI. Own this stock today for only $13.95.

The Type 5 folding stock is the first folding metal stock developed for the UZI in the 1960s and includes all hardware required to mount the stock on your UZI. Own this stock today for only $11.95.

Both of these stocks are original IMI-manufactured parts. Grab one today!

Camping Stoves

I like food. Food tastes good. You know, juicy burgers and greasy fries? I also enjoy camping, but hate that I can’t always enjoy the deliciousness that is my home kitchen. That’s why I always bring some sort of portable camping stove any time I’m roughing it. Really, what fun is camping if I can’t catch and cook a nice salmon and enjoy the obligatory s’more? Okay, you got me. Camping is still great regardless of the presence of a portable stove, and I am sure some traditionalists would disagree but sometimes building a fire is just too much trouble. So, if you’re at all like me -- and even if you’re not, stick around and let Keepshooting.com tell you about outdoor cooking gear and eating in the wild.

Outdoor Eats

Indoors or outdoors, a guy has got to eat! The only problem is that cooking outdoors proves to be a little complicated, unless you know what you’re doing. The most glaring difference is the lack of a kitchen. There is no oven, sink, counter, refrigerator or wealth of dishes and utensils. However, that is quite all right as over time, campers have developed a wealth of methods and equipment to make gourmet cooking outdoors a breeze.

One of the oldest, simplest forms of cooking outdoors involves the use of direct heat from a campfire. One advantage of a campfire is the lack of need for extra equipment. However, inexperienced campfire cookers may find this method a bit difficult. Not to mention the extra effort of building the fire. Besides, we’re here to discuss the finer points of outdoor cooking with camping stoves, which does require one to carry the extra equipment. That’s where we come in.

Stoves on the Go

The Swiss M71 stove is a camping stove issued to Swiss military soldiers.

It is basically a can of denatured, jellied alcohol. Easily ignited with a match, the Swiss M71 stove can boil two cups of water in about 11 minutes. When you order, you receive four stoves, each accompanied by a burner stand and wooden matches for only $14.95. Check out this video we made that shows just how easy these are to use:

You may also be interested in the Esbit folding stove, a compact, lightweight stove dating back to World War II era Germany.

These stoves are very popular among campers, military servicemen and survivalists. They use small tablets of hexamine or trioxane as a fuel source. When you order, you will receive six tablets that have a virtually unlimited shelf life for a meager $4.95. The frame also makes it perfectly compatible with our European military mess kit.

The great thing about these stoves is that they are both compact and lightweight, which means they take up little space in your pack. Now, let’s talk about how they’re best used on a campsite.

Cooking Methods

One thing everyone needs is water. However, obtaining sanitary drinking water in the wild is a big task if you don’t own some fancy filtration system. That is, unless you have some way of boiling the water. Both of the aforementioned camping stoves are perfect for boiling water, which is useful for cooking food, making hot beverages or obtaining clean drinking water.

Provided you have a small pan, these stoves are great for frying. Cooking that wild salmon or anything else you happen to hunt or catch is quick and simple when using camping stoves.

So next time you want to hit the great outdoors, grab a portable camping stove and introduce some convenience to the wild.

Ballistic Eyewear

Some say the eyes are a window to the soul. That may be true, but more importantly the eyes allow for vision, a sense with which I wouldn’t want to live without. After all, without your eyes, how would you be able to read your favorite blog – mine? As such, I only go for the best when it comes to protecting my peepers. Since my eyes are one of my favorite organs, I don’t settle for any old eyewear. I ensure that I’ll live to see another day, literally, by using ballistic eye protection when engaged in any activity that may involve debris or impact to the face. Today, Keepshooting.com is proud to present the finer points of ballistic eye protection as well as showcase a few products worth checking out.

What are ballistics?

In general, ballistics deals with the mechanics of different projectiles (e.g. bullets, bombs, rockets, missiles etc.) and their flight, behavior and effects. Furthermore, ballistics can be broken down into several categories, grouped based on different points in the flight of the projectile in question:

- Internal ballistics is the study of the processes involved in the initial acceleration of a projectile.

- Transition ballistics is the study of the projectile’s behavior at the point at which it leaves a barrel and pressure is equalized.

- External ballistics is the study of a projectile’s movement through space.

- Terminal ballistics is the study of the interaction between a projectile and its target.

 There is also forensic ballistics and ballistic fingerprinting, which can assist in criminal and legal investigations.

The relevant category here is terminal ballistics, as we will be discussing the interaction between projectiles and eyewear.

Ballistic Eye Protection

When engaged in any activity that might subject a person to debris or impact to the face, such as shooting, eyewear is a necessity. Dealing with firearms places a shooter’s eyes at increased risk of injury as both rifles and shotguns are shouldered while handguns are held at arms length, all of which are in close proximity to the face. The rapid expansion of gases and ejection of cartridges present hazards to a shooter’s eyes. As such, shooters should take special care to wear eye protection that is rated for ballistic impact.

Eyewear that is rated for ballistic protection usually consists of impact resistant frames and lenses and is most often treated with an anti-fog/anti-scratch coating. With ballistic eyewear, you can rest assured that if recoil were to force a firearm upwards, the frames would remain intact and the lenses would not break or shatter as they might with ordinary eyewear. An excellent example of ballistic eyewear that is perfect for shooting are the Swiss Eye Shooting Glasses.

Not only do these glasses contain the aforementioned features, but they are also rated for UVA, UVB, and UVC protection up to 400 nm.

Ballistic eye protection is also essential in numerous military and combat operations. Tactical goggles may prove effective in protecting the eyes against shrapnel or other debris resulting from IED’s, grenades or other attacks. The Bolle Defender Tactical Goggles are a great choice for those who need increased protection that traditional eyewear may not offer.

The Defender goggles are rated for ballistic impact and were created to provide superior eye protection in nearly any tactical environment. The goggles are designed to be worn over a helmet and utilize soft, face-hugging foam that provides a well-fitted and comfortable seal. Also noteworthy, are the interior polycarbonate anti-fog coating, the exterior scratch-resistant coating, and the Bulpren® foam aerators that filter out dust while providing even airflow.

When shooting, remember to stay smart and stay safe. Check out the rest of our safety glasses and make the switch to ballistic eyewear today!

US Military Duffel Bag

Hey there, Mr. Survivor. Are you sick of being in the great outdoors with those puny packs that leave you with just the bare essentials? Sometimes a single bandage and a package of energy gel won’t do the trick. We all know that large outings call for large bags, and there are few larger than the US Military duffel bag. However, size is not the only selling point here. This bag is tough as nails. After all, this is an authentic USGI (United States Government Issue) bag, and if it’s good enough for military service, it’s even better for personal service. When you order from us, you will not only receive a huge bag. You will receive the huge savings you’ve come to expect from Keepshooting.com. While you’re here, check out the rest of our bags and packs.

What is it?

Since World War II, the duffel bag has been a standard USGI item. It is one of the items service men and women are permitted to keep upon discharge, which accounts for their wide availability on the surplus market. However, the bags being offered by Keepshooting.com are not used. They are brand new, unissued bags.

As mentioned, the bag is quite large. It is cylindrical in shape with a wide opening at the top. Around the top are four large, metal grommets that serve as a closure system. A long metal loop protrudes from one of the grommets. Opposite this grommet is a snap link attached to a strap. The metal loop is fed through each grommet and attached to the snap link to secure the pack. A rope or cord may also be fed through the grommets to serve as a drawstring closure.

The bag has both a side-carrying handle and two padded, adjustable shoulder straps so that it may be worn as a backpack.

Other features include:

- Made in America

- Constructed from weather resistant Cordura® nylon

- Measures approximately 34-inches by 23-inches

- Side pocket with snap fastener

- Interior sewn flap for extra protection from airborne debris

Why should I buy it?

This bag is huge. This bag is tough. Perhaps most important, this bag is affordable. What more could you want, especially if you like camping? Go from “survivor man” to “roughing it outdoors comfortably man” by packing the bare essentials along with the rest of your bedroom, kitchen, and medicine cabinet. Seriously, it’s that big!

As if the inside storage capacity wasn’t enough, the grommets are large enough that you can feed ropes or cords through to hang more items from the bag.

It’s great for more than just camping, too. Athletes and parents of athletes know just how expensive sports bags can get. Carry your hockey, baseball, football, soccer, or any other sporting gear to the game with a duffel bag that will last season after season.

The bag is great for:

- Hiking

- Camping

- Hunting

- Sporting equipment

- Travel

- Shooting

- Survival packs 

At only $24.95, this deal is a no-brainer. Want some other no-brainer deals? Try the tactical backpack, Swiss engineer rucksack, or the German laundry bag.

Tips for packing your bag

When packing your duffel bag, make sure to place the largest, heaviest items at the bottom. This not only creates a solid base for your pack, but it makes the pack both safer and easier to carry on your back. Remember to place important, frequently accessed items such as food and water at the top of your pack. This eliminates the need to unpack and repack your bag but also ensures quick access.

Did you know?

According to the Online Etymology Dictionary, the word “duffel” dates back to the 1670s and comes from a town (Duffel) in Belgium where the material used in making duffel bags originated.

Remember, Remember the Fifth of November with the 'V for Vendetta' Mask   

“Remember, remember, the fifth of November; Gunpowder, treason and plot.” Bonus points for those of you who can tell me why these words are important without reading the title or the text of this article. Don’t look at the picture either! Well, it’s probably too late for that. If you haven’t figured it out yet, this post is about the “V for Vendetta” mask. It is one of the coolest masks commercially available and definitely the coolest we offer at Keepshooting.com. Keep reading for the full story on this mask, its comic book and film source material, and the real-life history that inspired it all.

What is it?

The “V for Vendetta” mask is a mask designed to resemble Guy Fawkes and is a symbol featured prominently in the film of the same name. What many may not know is that the movie is an adaptation of a limited comic book series written by Alan Moore, the same man behind such classics as “Watchmen,” “The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen” and “The Saga of the Swamp Thing.” Do yourself a favor and pick it up from a local comic book shop. You will not be disappointed.

The story is set in a post-apocalyptic, dystopian future in which England is ruled by a totalitarian regime that is all very reminiscent of George Orwell’s “1984.” Cue the arrival of “V”, the series’ terrorist/freedom-fighter (you decide) protagonist who decides he’s had enough and takes it upon himself to force a change. At its heart, this is a story about the clashing of political ideologies, as the fascist Norsefire party feels the wrath of the anarchist V.

In the story, V dons the very same mask available today. It is made of plastic and measures 7.5-inches by 8.5-inches. It also includes a Velcro® adjustable strap that ensures this mask will fit just about everyone.

Why should I buy it?

Beneath this mask there is more than flesh. Beneath this mask there is an idea, Mr. Creedy, and ideas are bulletproof.

                                                                                                                                      V, “V for Vendetta”

Occupy Wall Street. Occupy D.C. Occupy just about anything and express your bulletproof ideas through anonymous protest with the Guy Fawkes mask. There is a reason why this mask is popping up at protests all over the world. It has become a symbol. It is a “vestige of the vox populi,” as V puts it. It represents the voice of the people. Not to mention the fact that it just plain looks cool.

As mentioned, this mask is prominently featured in both the comic book and the film. It is sure to be a hit with both collectors and fans of the media it came from. At only $9.95, it is a great idea for Halloween!

Check out our other costumes and masks. If you like items featured in print or visual media, consider the Zentai suit, as worn by Charlie Day’s alter ego “Green Man” in “It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia.”

Guy Fawkes and The Gunpowder Plot

Guy, or Guido, Fawkes was an English Catholic born in 1570. He is most recognizable as a conspirator involved in the Gunpowder Plot of 1605, sometimes known as the Gunpowder Treason Plot, in which Fawkes, along with a group of fellow Catholics, sought to assassinate King James I by blowing up the House of Lords. Fawkes’ job was to safeguard the gunpowder hidden below the House of Lords. When was this scheduled to take place? The November 5,1605. Long story short, their plan failed. Today, Bonfire Night is observed on November 5 to commemorate the events.

Aside from “V for Vendetta,” Guy Fawkes and The Gunpowder Plot has served as inspiration for literature, theatre, video games, geographical features, and Internet culture. The entire ordeal is very interesting and much too lengthy to discuss here. If it interests you at all, I highly suggest researching it further.

Make sure you check out the film as well. See the trailer below, courtesy of YouTube user “warnervod.”

Getting' Jiggy With It – Everything You Need to Know About Jiggler Keys

Well look who’s back? It’s James Bond, and it would appear that he is ready to learn a little more about the many lock pick tools we offer here at Keepshooting.com. Last time, we learned about the lock pick gun. Today, we will focus on another tool best suited for those who may not be blessed with patience or the steady hand required for traditional lock picking. If this sounds like you, consider checking out the jiggler keys, another great tool that allows for a speedy entrance at a fraction of the cost.

Raking vs. Bumping

In my blog posting for the lock pick gun, I reviewed a few of the finer points of lock picking. Specifically, I discussed the technique known as raking. Raking is a lock picking technique in which specialized tools are used to mimic the movements of a key and move a lock’s pins into the correct position. When used in conjunction with a torsion wrench, which is used to apply rotational pressure, certain locks may be opened without a correctly cut key.

Ever seen Newton’s Cradle? I’m sure you have, though you may not have realized it. Newton’s Cradle is a toy usually found on office desks that consists of five identical metal spheres, each suspended by two equal lengths of wire and each gently touching each other while at rest. When one sphere is pulled back and released, it will strike the remaining set of spheres, sending a force through them all and pushing the last sphere upward. This toy demonstrates the principles of conservation of momentum and energy, the very same principles used in lock bumping. Bumping is a lock picking technique in which the lower pins in a lock, known as key pins, are struck and result in an upward force that drives the upper pins, known as driver pins, into place. Bumping doesn’t require the finesse that traditional lock picking does, and can sometimes damage the lock. The lock pick gun and jiggler keys both rely on this technique.

What is it?

The jiggler keys are a set of ten different pieces of metal, cut to resemble the general shape of an assortment of keys.

By way of lock bumping, the keys are designed to open most pin tumbler and wafer tumbler locks, such as those commonly found on an automobile. A key is inserted into a lock and jiggled, resulting in repeated impacts on the lower key pins of a lock. This energy is transferred upwards through the key pins to the driver pins. Ideally, the driver pins will be pushed high enough on one of the bumps that the cylinder will be able to turn. Because this is a key, constant rotational pressure can be applied to the lock, removing the need for a torsion wrench. If the first key doesn’t open the lock, try again with the next key in the set. If you’re still curious how jiggler keys work, check out YouTube for a selection of videos that show them in action.

This set of jiggler keys comes with 10 keys and an instruction booklet for only $14.95.

Why should I buy it?

Much like the lock pick gun, the jiggler keys are perfect for those irritating times when you accidentally get locked out of your home or car. The jiggler keys are more compact than the lock pick gun and are easy to carry or store underneath a car using a magnetic stash box.

The jiggler keys, like any lock pick tools, are a perfect choice for:

- Law enforcement agents

- Fire/EMS

- Locksmiths

- Roadside assistance vehicles

- Locksport

As always, when you’re ready to learn patience and train yourself for a steady hand, we offer a great lock pick set.

Don't Tread on Me: A Retrospective

Don’t tread on me. A phrase we have all undoubtedly seen, heard, spoken, scrawled, tattooed or generally communicated in some form, at some point. We have seen the phrase displayed across the buttocks of Bart Simpson and we have recently seen it adopted by the Tea Party Movement. However, it is arguably most recognizable as a part of the Gadsden flag. You may know it as the “Don’t Tread on Me” flag. No matter what you call it, Keepshooting.com is giving you the opportunity to own it. Let everyone know that you will not be treated like a doormat and pick one up today!

What is it?

The Gadsden flag is a flag originally designed in 1775 during the American Revolutionary War by Christopher Gadsden, a statesmen from South Carolina.

During a meeting of the Second Continental Congress, at which approximately 56 delegates met to manage the war effort and act as a makeshift national government, the Continental Navy was established alongside five companies of Marines. Among these Marines were several who carried uniquely decorated drums. The drums were painted yellow and adorned with coiled rattlesnakes along with the phrase, “Don’t tread on me.” Sounds sort of familiar, huh? This is recorded as the first known joining of the coiled rattlesnake symbol with the now famous motto, and it was the inspiration for the flag soon thereafter designed by Gadsden. In fact, Gadsden presented the first flag to the commander-in-chief of the Continental Navy, Commodore Esek Hopkins, just prior to the Navy’s first official mission.

The flag available here is a recreation of Gadsden’s original design. It includes both the rattlesnake symbol and the motto. It is often said that the rattlesnake featured on the flag is an American timber rattlesnake, though many claim it to be an eastern diamondback. Regardless, the rattlesnake is depicted with a rattle containing thirteen segments, just as it was on the drums of the Marines. As you may guess, these thirteen segments represent the thirteen original colonies of America.

The flag measures 3-feet by 5-feet and features two metal grommets for hanging the flag on a pole.

Why should I buy it?

The Gadsden flag is the ultimate symbol of American patriotism. It embodies everything that our nation stood for at its inception and will perfectly capture your “no nonsense” rebellious spirit. Hang it on your wall. Fly it outdoors. Show your pride, or your disapproval. This flag really is all encompassing.

If you’re still not sure, check out what one of our satisfied customers had to say:

“I fly this flag proudly in several places on my ranch. Every American should have one in my opinion. Keepshooting.com had the best price I could find.”

At $4.99, there is really only one thing to say: “Buy, or Die!” Or, I guess you could consider one of our many other flags including the traditional American flag, the First Navy Jack flag, or the 101^st Airborne flag.

Rattlesnakes in Early America

Rattlesnakes had a nice little history of symbolizing the American spirit prior to their inclusion on the Gadsden flag. As early as 1751, Benjamin Franklin made reference to rattlesnakes in his Pennsylvania Gazette, when he suggested that criminals being sent from England to the colonies send back rattlesnakes as thanks. Three years later, he made his famous “Join, or Die” woodcut, which became the first political cartoon published in an American newspaper. The woodcut depicts a rattlesnake severed into eight different pieces, each representing a different colony (one was labeled N.E., for New England and represented multiple colonies), and is underlined by the message “Join, or Die.” A few years later, Benjamin Franklin contributed an essay to the Pennsylvania Journal, in which he said:

She never begins an attack, nor, when once engaged, ever surrenders: She is therefore an emblem of magnanimity and true courage… she never wounds till she has generously given notice, even to her enemy, and cautioned him against the danger of stepping [treading] on her.

                                                        Benjamin Franklin, Pennsylvania Journal, December 1775

Stop Accepting Counterfeit Currency Today

It’s probably a safe assumption that no one likes getting burned -- physically or financially -- and while we don’t offer much in the way of fire protection we can certainly offer you some financial peace of mind. Every day, people fall victim to counterfeit currency and are forced to take a loss. Well, with a little knowledge and the counterfeit money detector pen from Keepshooting.com, you can protect yourself from the financial fires set by counterfeiters.

What is it?

The counterfeit money detector pen is a tool used on banknotes to determine their authenticity. Though most banknotes are manufactured with a number of security features, it is often impractical to meticulously verify each one. This pen provides a fast, efficient method of catching one of the most common counterfeits: those printed on cellulose-based papers.

Generally, banknotes are printed on cotton-based papers -- ones that are made with cotton fibers. A great deal of counterfeit notes are printed on standard cellulose-based paper, or paper that originates from trees. By utilizing an iodine-based ink, these pens can detect counterfeit bills printed on cellulose-based paper, which contains starches that react with the iodine in the ink.

To use the pen, mark the note on a lighter area or an area that is free from ink. If the mark remains clear or turns to a light yellow color, the note is likely genuine. However, if the mark turns violet, green, blue or brown, the note is likely a counterfeit. This YouTube video, courtesy of user “blockandcompany,” demonstrates a similar product that uses the same principles of detection. Check it out if you want to see a counterfeit money detector pen in action before you make a purchase.

Why should I buy it?

Let’s talk about time. Time is the reason a large deal of counterfeit currency is printed on cellulose-based paper. This method is faster and easier than more convincing counterfeits. Counterfeiters know that merchants won’t spend a lot of time examining notes in front of the customer; they just don’t have the time and it may be offensive to some. Time is also the reason you should consider purchasing this pen. It is quick and it is efficient. I used to work in a bank and we used these pens every day. They work.

The counterfeit money detector pen is great for:

- Small businesses

- Bank tellers

- Office clerks

- Anyone who wants to protect themselves from receiving counterfeit currency

Make sure you don’t take a loss by picking up a counterfeit money detector pen today for only $2.95!

Did you know?

Though the United States Secret Service is overwhelmingly associated with its protective services, it was initially created by former President Abraham Lincoln in 1865 as a means to combat counterfeiting. At the time, it was estimated that about one third of the currency in circulation was counterfeit.

Today, the USSS fills two general roles:

- Safeguarding current and former domestic and foreign national leaders

- Safeguarding the payment and financial systems of the United States of America

If you are interested in learning more about the safety features included in U.S. currency and methods of detecting counterfeit currency, the official website of the USSS provides several invaluable resources.

Quick Fix Synthetic Urine: A Surefire Way to Protect Your Privacy

Privacy. You know, the right you’ve been screaming about since you were thirteen years old, hiding behind a locked bedroom door in your parents’ house? That privacy. Keepshooting.com is a company that recognizes the importance of our customers’ privacy. We’re also well aware that some organizations have seemingly no problem violating that privacy. That’s why we offer a range of products intended for privacy protection, including Quick Fix synthetic urine. What is synthetic urine? Why would anyone use it? Read on and find out why this product could be the one you’ve been seeking for years.

Technical terms explained

In this post, I’ll be mentioning a few terms that other websites don’t bother to explain. They just like to sound intelligent without really knowing what is it they’re discussing. It’s important to know what you’re ordering, what it’s for, and why it’s included in the product.

Urinalysis – A urinalysis is essentially an examination of the urine. These tests can be used to determine and assess health and generally measure and quantify organic and inorganic substances contained in the urine.

pH – The pH of a person’s urine is a term used to describe the acidity or basicity of the urine. Water is neutral, and has a pH of about 7.0. Urine is generally acidic and should have a pH between 5.0 and 7.0.

Specific gravity – Specific gravity is a measure of the ion concentration in a sample of urine. It can be used to assess kidney function and diagnose renal failure. It is also useful in determining levels of hydration.

Urea – Urea is an organic compound useful in metabolizing certain nitrogen-containing compounds. It is a major component of urine.

Creatinine – Creatinine is a by-product of creatine phosphate and is regularly found in urine. High levels of creatinine are characteristic of normal urine. Low levels may suggest that a urine sample has been tampered with.

What is it?

Quick Fix synthetic urine is a premixed laboratory urine designed specifically to protect the user’s privacy when submitting to urinalysis screenings. What this means is that this product is not actual human urine. This product was synthesized, or created, in a laboratory setting in order to mime the characteristics of authentic human urine. The result is a toxin-free product that is usable by both males and females. It is balanced for pH and specific gravity while containing key organic and inorganic components including both urea and creatinine.

Quick Fix synthetic urine is available for purchase in two or three ounce packages and includes:

- Attached temperature strip (for accurate temperature readings)

- Heating pad (for prolonged heat up to six hours)

- Instruction manual

The most up-to-date formula, 5.7-1, is available today for $24.95.

Why should I buy it?

You need a reason for buying synthetic urine? I’ll give you several, including why you should buy directly from us.

Some people value privacy more than others and would prefer to keep their medical histories to themselves. Quick Fix offers those people a safe method of doing just that. As mentioned, Quick Fix synthetic urine is designed specifically to protect the privacy of those submitting to urinalysis screenings. Whether these screenings are required for beginning employment, a means of continued employment, life/health insurance or anything else, you can ensure your privacy will be protected as this product will cover: nicotine, pregnancy and many other health-related ailments.

Quick Fix synthetic urine may also be useful for:

- Research (when actual urine is impractical or unavailable)

- Alternative medicine (some groups attest to the medicinal and cosmetic properties of urine)

- Distasteful pranks (you didn’t hear it from us)

Now you’re sold, but you’ve found the same product for cheaper on some other website. We are an authorized Spectrum Labs distributor. Other websites may sell this product at a lower price, but those products could be fakes. Additionally, if you place an order before 3 p.m. EST, and select FedEx priority overnight shipping, your order is guaranteed for next day delivery.

Weather the Storm with the German Gore-Tex® Wet Weather Suit

October has come and gone. However, the drop in temperature it brought with it has stuck around. This means that winter is right around the corner along with the cold, wet weather that always seems to sneak up on us all. This year, Keepshooting.com has you covered (literally) with a vast assortment of jackets and parkas, clothing, and coveralls to keep you warm and dry all season long. If you’re really looking to keep the elements out, consider the German Gore-Tex® suit, a powerhouse of a wet weather suit available for only $34.95!

German 101 

Willst du die Geschichte hinter der Tarnung wissen? Want to know the story behind the camouflage? Back in 1976, the Bundeswehr, or German Armed Forces, began developing new camouflage patterns as a push to replace the olive-grey uniforms that were being used at the time. The result was this work of art known as Flecktarn, German for “spotted camouflage.” The word Flecktarn comes from the German words fleck, for “spot,” and tarnung, for “camouflage.” It wasn’t until 1990 that the pattern found widespread use among the service branches of the Bundeswehr, including the Heer (Army), Marine (Navy), Luftwaffe (Air Force), and the Zentraler Sanitätsdienst (Central Medical Services).

Flecktarn is a multicolor disruptive camouflage pattern, generally utilizing three or more colors. This particular pattern was designed for use in temperate woodland terrains, though by varying the colors, it is adaptable to other backdrops.

What is it?

The German Gore-Tex® suit is a lightweight, wet weather suit designed to keep you dry and comfortable when facing the elements, and it does. When you order from us, you will receive a jacket and pants, both designed to be worn over other layers, with the following features: 

Jacket

- Made of Gore-Tex®

- Full zippered front

- Additional front snap fasteners for enhanced protection

- Integrated hood with drawstring closure

- Velcro® adjustable cuffs

- Two deep front pockets

Pants

- Made of Gore-Tex®

- Double elastic suspenders

- Two seven-inch zippered “pass-thru” pockets allow access to jeans/pants

- Snap fastener waistline with a zippered fly

Why should I buy it?

Tough winter weather calls for tough winter clothing, and that’s where Gore-Tex® reigns supreme. Gore-Tex® is synonymous with wet, winter weather. It is waterproof, windproof, and breathable. It keeps the wind and water out while allowing heat and sweat to escape, keeping you dry and comfortable. When you enter the outdoors wearing Gore-Tex®, your protection from the elements is guaranteed. The jacket can be used as an all-purpose winter coat but is also great for any of the following:

- Winter weather

- Skiing/snowboarding

- Hunting

- Paintball

- Any other outdoor activities that may be subject to wet weather

But don’t just take my word for it. Here is a review from a satisfied customer:

“I Bass fish for a living and when it’s raining the fish still bite. So rather than getting soaking wet, or wearing a bulky, noisy rain suit, I wear these Gore-Tex® suits. It makes a rainy day at the office a bit more tolerable.”

As I mentioned, this suit is only $34.95! Good luck finding a comparable item at a better price. If somehow you’re still not sold, check out the Swiss camo rain poncho or the splinter camo anorak for alternative ways of staying dry and stylish.

Answer the Call of Duty with the German Flak Jacket

It’s a crazy world out there and sometimes even a trip to the grocery store can be quite an adventure. Keepshooting.com wants to make sure that our customers are safe, and whether you’re parachuting into enemy territory or taking fire from your friend’s paintball gun, we’d like to believe you will be protected. In order to ensure that safety, we offer a wide variety of body armor, including the German Flak Jacket, each of which is a great piece of German military history and each of which is in excellent condition.

History Lesson

Ready for some more instruction in German? Of course you are. Have you ever heard the word fliegerabwehrkanone? Probably not, but I’m willing to bet you’ve heard of a flak jacket. The word flak comes from the word fliegerabwehrkanone, German for “anti-aircraft gun.” The term flak jacket essentially means, “anti-aircraft gun jacket,” and was so named due to its usage by the British Royal Air Force in World War II to protect its pilots from shrapnel and other debris resultant from German anti-aircraft guns’ highly explosive shells.

Early flak jackets were made of ballistic nylon, a synthetic material developed by DuPont® specifically for military use. Sewn into the ballistic nylon were several manganese steel plates. Due to the size constraints brought about by the Avro Lancaster (the RAF’s bomber), the Royal Air Force found the jackets impractical and subsequently gave them to the United States Army Air Forces (USAAF), a predecessor to the modern day United States Air Force (USAF). Today, flak jackets are outdated by more bullet-resistant fabrics such as Kevlar®, which can be used in conjunction with metal or ceramic plates to enhance their “stopping power.”

What is it?

A flak jacket is a type of protective clothing designed to shield the wearer from shrapnel, fragmentation, debris, and other indirect projectiles. Though the terms flak jacket and bulletproof vest are often used interchangeably, not all flak jackets are bulletproof or rated for direct fire from pistols or rifles.

The German Flak Jacket offered by Keepshooting.com is a Kevlar®-paneled vest, covered in a flecktarn patterned nylon and includes the following features:

- Kevlar®-paneling

- Easy-to-wear with Velcro® closure on the left shoulder and the left/right hips

- Zipper closure for insertion and removal of Kevlar®-paneling

- Shoulder pads with snap fasteners

- Large, expandable front pocket with Velcro® closure

- Interior waistband with adjustable Velcro® closure ensures a secure fit

- Front and rear rings for additional field gear

 At $69.95, these jackets are selling fast. We’re unsure when they will be restocked so act quickly!

Why should I buy it?

As mentioned, people use the terms flak jacket and bulletproof vest interchangeably. However, all flak jackets (early models especially) are not bulletproof. These flak jackets were manufactured in the late 1980s through the 1990s, and though they use Kevlar®-paneling we do not recommend using them to protect against actual firearms nor do we guarantee any level or protection.

Well then, what are they good for? It has been years since I was involved in any type of paintball skirmish, and though it was a great deal of fun, the feeling of being shot was less than comfortable. Having a German flak jacket would have made the experience more enjoyable while also helping to conceal myself in the woods with its flecktarn pattern.

The German flak jacket is a great choice for:

- Paintball players

- Airsoft players

- Costumes

- Reenactments

- Theater props

- Movie production

Though we do not endorse the use of this product for protection from actual firearms, we do carry an assortment of body armor, including: German police body armor, Level IIIA body armor, German police full-body impact suit, stab resistant vests and many more.

Picking Locks With a Lock Pick Gun

Hey James Bond, have we got a deal for you. We know how tough it can be out on assignment, and that’s exactly why we offer a variety of lock pick tools to help you out of those sticky situations. Sometimes, the job calls for a quick entrance and there is no better way to make it than with a lock pick gun. Keepshooting.com is excited to offer a high-quality lock pick gun, but act fast because supplies are limited.

What is it?

The lock pick gun, also known as a snap gun, is a locksmith tool designed to quickly open most pin, wafer, and disk tumbler locks without the use of a correctly cut key. A steel picking needle is attached to the pick gun and inserted into a lock. Then, by way of mechanical energy, the needle bumps the lock pins into place simultaneously, allowing the lock to be opened with the assistance of a torsion wrench.

The lock pick gun being offered by Keepshooting.com comes with a torsion wrench and two pairs of picking needles, one straight and one offset. The picking needles are made of stainless steel and are not only durable, but also rust resistant. It includes an instruction booklet and is yours today for only $45.95.

Lock Picking 101

Keyed locks have been around for a very, very long time. According to Popular Science, a wooden pin lock and key were discovered in Egypt that is thought to be from 250 B.C. Where there is a keyed lock, you better believe there is a person trying to open it without the key. Lock picking is an art that involves the skillful manipulation of a lock in order to open it without its key. Traditionally, a technique known as raking is employed in which specialized tools are used to mimic the movements of a key and move a lock’s pins into the correct position. At the same time, the picker will apply pressure with a torsion wrench in order to spin the cylinder at the exact moment when all the pins are correctly aligned, thus opening the lock.  

Lock pick guns were originally designed for law enforcement officers who were unskilled at the art of lock picking but still needed a quick entry. Check out this video, courtesy of YouTube user "LockPickPaul," which explains the correct usage of a lock pick gun and the inner workings of a pin tumbler lock. 

Why should I buy it?

How many times have you locked yourself out of your house or car and thought, “If only I had a lock pick gun?” If you’ve had that thought even once, then it’s time to stop thinking and start acting. People get locked out every day. Rather than call a locksmith and wait, take matters into your own hands and remedy the situation in seconds. We also offer a magnetic stash box, perfect for holding your lock pick gun underneath your car until you’re ready to use it.

The lock pick gun is also an invaluable tool for:

- Law enforcement

- Fire/EMS

- Locksmiths

- Roadside assistance vehicles

- Locksport (recreational or “sport” lock picking)

Perhaps you’re interested in locksport. Learn the more subtle aspects of lock picking by checking out "Lock Picking For the New Millennium" or "Lock Picking Simplified." Then try your hand with a good lock pick set or a pair of jiggler keys.

German Folding Shovel

By: Joe Michelizzi, Staff Writer

Back in February 2010, the Mid-Atlantic region was hit with two different blizzards that crippled the area. Remember when your car was stuck in the driveway for days? Remember when -- after digging out your car for a trip to the store -- you got stuck in the ice-covered parking lots? It sure would have been useful to have a compact shovel in the car, huh?

Well Keepshooting.com doesn’t want to see our customers stuck outdoors again. That’s why we’re offering the German military folding shovel for only $24.95, a perfect companion for your car or truck.

History Lesson

The German military folding shovel, also known as an entrenching tool, is a military issued piece of field gear. Entrenching tools are known to have existed as early as Julius Caesar and the Roman Legion and were prevalent throughout the Napoleonic Wars, where siege operations were commonplace. During World War I, entrenching tools began to take on their more modern design as trench warfare rose to prominence.

Today, entrenching tools are produced with much more sophisticated designs. Many components have been modified including the handles and folding design. Several have been fitted with picks or bayonets and are often used as weapons. Many units are even trained in combat with their entrenching tool.

What is it?

The German military folding shovels being offered here are in very good condition and it is one of the more practical items we offer. The shovel weighs in at a meager three and one half pounds and has a folded length of about seventeen inches. When fully extended, the shovel measures about two feet. It is compact and easily manageable.

Features of the shovel include:

- Sturdy hardwood handle

- Folding steel shovel and pick

- Adjustable to three different positions: 0 degree, 90 degrees, or 180 degrees

- Locks into position with spring lock

Also included, is a leather sheath with belt loops and double strap and buckle closure.

Why should I buy it?

The benefits of the German folding shovel are obvious. Its compact size makes it an ideal addition to any survival or winter weather preparedness kit. Are forecasters calling for snow? Toss this shovel in your trunk and ensure that you don’t get stuck in the cold.

The shovel is also perfect for:

- Camping

- Gardening

- Reenactments

Grab yours today!

Czech Map Case

By: Joe Michelizzi, Staff Writer

It’s official. Tablets and personal computers are in. You’ve got one and we want to protect it. Keepshooting.com has a great selection of bags and packs perfect for your tablet or anything else you want to keep safe on the go. Today, we’ll take a look at the Czech map case. Make a statement for only $11.95 with this durable case that is sure to turn a few heads.

History Lesson

The Army of the Czech Republic has existed in many different forms dating back to the early 20^th century. Originating as the Czechoslovak Armed Forces in 1918, it dissolved alongside Czechoslovakia in 1938. The remaining units went on to serve with several foreign troops including the Polish army, the French army, the British army, and the Royal Air Force. In 1945, several units were reassigned and transferred to Czechoslovakia to form the Czechoslovak People’s Army, where it served as a mainstay under the Warsaw Pact until 1990 when it became the Army of the Czech Republic. Today, the Czech Republic is a member of the United Nations and its military has involved itself in quite a few peacekeeping and humanitarian efforts. Now go impress your friends with this new found knowledge and a Czech map case.

What is it?

Military maps signal status and authority due to their obvious significance in regards to strategy and battle plans. For this reason, maps were often carried by high-level military personnel only, such as officers. Do you trust your important documents to cheap folders, bags and cases? Neither does the military. That’s why you can rest assured that this bag is built tough and ready for service.

The Czech map case measures 13.5-inches by 9-inches. It is expandable to about 3.5-inches and has the following features:

- Made of leather

- Military-grade stitching

- Full-sized interior storage area with divider, including a small pocket

- Small interior flat storage area

- Exterior pouch with snap fastener (3-inches by 3-inches)

- Exterior slots hold up to six pens/pencils

- Cover flap with belt-type closure

- Interior strap and buckle closure for increased security

- Adjustable shoulder sling

Why should I buy it?

By this point, you’ve got your iPad and you’re ready to show it off. So, what would you rather buy: a synthetic case that looks nice but won’t last or a leather map case that you know will last because it has already proven its worth by surviving this long? Oddly enough, this Czech map case houses an iPad perfectly and is significantly cheaper than the cases that are actually designed for tablets. With extra storage for documents, pens, pencils, business cards and more, this is the perfect companion and is also great for:

- Business

- School

- Travel

Still not sold? Maybe you’re better suited for one of our other bags and packs. Consider the Military iPad bag, German bread bag, Czech military bag, or the Swiss messenger bag; all at the low price you’ve come to expect from Keepshooting.com.

Swiss Mountain Gaiters

By: Joe Michelizzi, Staff Writer 

As camping season begins to wind down, why not prepare for that last trip into the great outdoors by considering one of our many fine Swiss products? Ensure a dry, comfortable outdoor excursion with the new Swiss mountain gaiters from Keepshooting.com. As always, the price is right at just $15.95 for four pairs!

History Lesson

Gaiters were originally developed for use by those riding on horseback and were useful for protecting the lower legs of the rider. The design comes from a type of armor worn to cover the shins, known as greaves. Dating back as far as Ancient Greece, greaves were a commonplace among the Greek hoplites and Roman centurions. They remained popular throughout the Middle Ages, even appearing in feudal Japan where samurai wore suneate, Japanese for “shin guards.” Though early gaiters were almost always fashioned from leather, the introduction and availability of synthetic materials such as Gore-Tex® has allowed for gaiters to find uses outside of horseback riding.

What is it?

Gaiters are a form of clothing worn over the lower legs, designed to protect them from the elements, groundcover and other natural pests. The Swiss mountain gaiters, constructed from wool, are made in Switzerland and boast the quality that has come to be expected from Swiss-made products. Keep your legs protected and your pants dry with these easy to wear gaiters.

Features include:

- Made of wool

- Measures 14” tall

- Full length zipper

- Double drawstrings for below the knee closure

- Double foothold straps with buckle closure

Why should I buy it?

Outdoor enthusiasts all over will want to own a pair of these Swiss mountain gaiters. Take a hike in comfort while keeping rain, dirt, mud and snow out of your boots and pesky forest underbrush off of your legs.

These gaiters are perfect for numerous outdoor activities, including:

- Hiking

- Camping

- Paintball

- Yard work

- Winter weather

Going camping? Consider one of our other Swiss products. The Swiss military sleeping bag, Swiss M71 stove, and the Swiss engineer rucksack make perfect additions to the Swiss mountain gaiters for an enjoyable outdoor experience.

Swiss M18 Helmet

By: Joe Michelizzi, Staff Writer 

It’s no secret; we here at Keepshooting.com are big fans of Swiss military products and the rich history that accompanies them. Keepshooting.com is pleased to bring you the Swiss M18 helmet. This helmet, introduced in World War I, has a style all its own. Along with the Swiss army uniform jacket and the Swiss engineer rucksack, this helmet brings you one step closer to being a Swiss army conscript.

The early years of WWI proved devastating, as casualty rates soared. The introduction of trench warfare and advances in technology such as barbed wire, artillery, and machine guns played a big role in this trend. Less responsible, though glaring, was the disadvantage of leather helmets. The first year of WWI passed without a single nation offering their troops steel helmets. However, 1915 saw the introduction of the M1915 Adrian helmet by the French, closely followed by the British Brodie helmet and the M1916 stahlhelm, German for “steel helmet.” Many other nations began manufacturing and issuing helmets based on the stahlhelm design, including Switzerland, who introduced the Swiss M18 helmet in 1918. The M18 was very unique, however, sporting a lower, rounder crown with a skirt that was designed to protect the troops from the harsh elements associated with the Swiss region.  

What is it?

Seeing service in both WWI and WWII, the Swiss M18 helmet is the first steel helmet issued to Swiss troops during WWI and marked a great advancement in military headgear. Originally painted olive, these helmets were recalled and modified in 1944. The new black paint included a mixture of sawdust, giving the helmet its unique texture. As with our other Swiss products, you can expect outstanding craftsmanship on a product that is built to last.

Features include:

- Made of steel

- Excellent condition with original leather liner  

- Adjustable chinstrap

- Rough texture finish to prevent glare

- Individual tag on most identifies soldier of issue

This is a great chance to own a piece of history. Don’t let it pass you by!

Why should I buy it?

History. Culture. Functionality. The Swiss M18 helmet is a helmet like no other. The Swiss soldiers are required to store all army issued equipment, including personal service weapons, in their homes. Due to this practice, it is likely that many of these helmets sat ready for service in the homes of Swiss soldiers. Many of these helmets even include an individual service tag that identifies the soldier that was issued the helmet. This is perfect for Swiss military, WWI, and WWII collectors that prefer field gear with a personality.

You may have even recognized this helmet. Along with a WWII era stahlhelm, the Swiss M18 helmet served as major inspiration for the helmet worn by Darth Vader in the original "Star Wars" trilogy and "Star Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith," and would make an exceptional addition to any fan’s collection. It was also featured in the recent grind house film "Hobo with a Shotgun," worn by “The Plague.”

This is also an ideal helmet for:

- Paintball

- Reenactments

- Theater prop

- Movie production

Get yours today for only $34.95, before supplies run out.

Did you know?

Most military helmets are named based on their design year. The Swiss M18 helmet, or Model 1918, is so named because it was designed in 1918. Other examples include the Russian M52 (Model 1952) and the East German steel helmet, or M56 (Model 1956).

Swiss Engineer Rucksack

By: Joe Michelizzi, Staff Writer

Keepshooting.com is proud to offer you the Swiss engineer rucksack. With limitless options for use and a price that will have you coming back for more, this rucksack is the perfect buy.

The Swiss Army dates back to the cantonal troops of the Old Swiss Confederacy, the pre-cursor to modern day Switzerland. From here, the federal army was established with the signing of the Swiss Federal Constitution in 1848. Today, the Swiss Armed Forces are comprised of only about 5 percent professional soldiers, with the remaining personnel consisting of conscripted soldiers. All Swiss soldiers, by law of the Swiss militia system, are required to store all army issued equipment, including their personal service weapons, in their homes. You can continue the tradition of the Swiss army with this authentic Swiss engineer rucksack.

What is it?

The Swiss are renowned for their quality and precision craftsmanship, producing everything from the world famous Swiss army knife to fine timepieces. The Swiss engineer rucksack continues the long history of superior Swiss craftsmanship. This rucksack, built to last, is constructed from waterproof vinyl and reinforced with an internal metal frame for support.

Other features include:

- Weatherproof vinyl construction

- Leather-bound metal reinforcements

- Double drawstring closure

- Internal metal frame for back support

- Top flap with buckle closure

If you are looking for a military style backpack, you won’t find a better deal.

Why should I buy it?

The Swiss engineer rucksack has something to offer everyone, from the most avid history buff to the average college student. Collectors of military surplus and memorabilia will want to own this low priced piece of Swiss history. The rucksack is also highly functional and with its spacious main compartment, can be used by students to carry a laptop computer along with several textbooks, notebooks or folders while protecting each from the elements. There is also a smaller, secondary compartment perfect for housing a cell phone, GPS or other small items.

This is also an ideal storage bag for:

- Hunting

- Fishing

- Camping

- Shooting

Get yours today for only $19.95, before supplies run out.

We have a great new blog section about military surplus values, and this post is the first highlight.

German Snow Camo Poncho Bulk Deal!

Keepshooting.com is now offering German Military Snow Camo Ponchos at a price so low, you'll think it's too good to be true. That's right, priced low as in.... FIVE high quality, fully functional snow poncho's with countless uses for only $14.95!

The German military designed these ponchos as outer layer snow camo coverings to be worn over the heavy winter parkas and bulky pants of German and NATO ski and winter troops. The lightweight and breathable cotton material is generously cut, allowing you to slip the poncho over your bulky winter clothing. The attached hood with drawstring, elastic arm holes, and multiple tie straps on the bottom help keep the poncho secure to your body and eliminate the common problems of ponchos not staying put or blowing around which adds unwanted movement when hunting or stalking. These poncho's are one size fits all and measure roughly 5' x 7' when opened up. They are surplus used in excellent condition.

Wondering what you could use a snow poncho for or better yet, five of them?

These poncho's are perfect winter snow camouflage when you need to be concealed with a white background and green and brown pine clusters as breakup. This spruce camo pattern has proven itself effective for hunting in the snow for decades.

Snow poncho's are a great choice for cold weather paintball games also as they add one last layer of protection and concealment, while keeping paint off of your expensive winter clothing.

At under $3.00 a poncho, you can even afford to use these ponchos as painting smocks or any other disposable layer of protection for those extra dirty jobs. Our low priced bulk deal gives you FIVE poncho's, plenty for you and enough to share with family and friends.

We have just begun shipping our new KeepShooting Magazine for the Walther P22.   This magazine has been in development for the past two years and is perfect in every way.  Read more on why this magazine goes well with your Walther P22 and your current factory magazines.

Walther P22 Magazines

Our magazine for the Walther P22 is designed to offer you a high quality magazine at a cheap price.  By offering you a magazine at a low entry price, you will be able to enjoy your P22 more at the range as you'll spend less time loading magazines and more time shooting.

Our magazine is professionally manufactured using the highest quality materials, laser engraved, and designed to function 100% in your Walther P22 pistol.   You will find our magazine performs as good as your factory original, with no issues with magazine jams or misfeeds.

Give our new magazine for the Walther P22 a try today!   Our introductory and quantity pricing gives you the opportunity to stock up on magazines at a price no one can match.

Walther P22 Magazines - On Sale for Cheap - 100% Guaranteed to function in your P22!

Walther® and P22® are trademarks of Carl Walther GmbH.  The use of the Walther and P22 trademark is not intended to and does not represent any affiliation with Carl Walther GmbH.  Our products do not say Walther® or P22® anywhere on them and our use is intended to identify the product our magazine is used in.  This is not a product of Carl Walther GmbH.

We have recently picked up the KNS Precision line of quality gun accessories.  For those of you who are not familiar with KNS Precision, they are a well known manufacturer of AR-15 parts and accessories.

Some of the best known KNS Precision parts are their duplex crosshair front sights for various weapon systems.  The duplex crosshair sight will allow you to get a much better sight picture on long distance targets.  We have the duplex crosshair sights for the following firearms:

M14 Duplex Crosshair Front Sight

M1 Garand Duplex Crosshair Front Sight

HK Weapons Duplex Crosshair Front Sight

We've also decided to carry the KNS Precision line of push button take down pins for various firearms.  This is a really useful upgrade for weapons like the MAC-10 and AR-15.  You can easily separate your firearm's upper and lower receivers without the need for additional tools.

MAC-10 Push Button Take Down Pin

We are continuing to add more products daily, so keep an eye on our KeepShooting New Product page for everything we've added since your last visit.

There are many uses for less lethal ammo that you may not have considered.  We hope this post will show you the benefits to using less lethal ammunition.

Buying Less Lethal Ammunition

The first thing to consider when choosing less lethal ammunition is your potential suppliers.  Many vendors of less lethal products will only sell to certified law enforcement officers and departments.  This is generally due to terms set by the manufacturer of the ammunition to ensure that no one uses more advanced less lethal ammunition in an improper manner.

We would be honored to get your less lethal ammo business and our requirements to purchase are the same as regular ammunition.   You simply need to be an adult and be able to receive the ammunition with an adult signature requirement.   The less lethal ammunition we sell is able to be used by anyone with an understanding of a few basic rules.

Types of Less Lethal Ammo

Many types of less lethal ammunition exist, but the only type that we recommend using would be 12 gauge.  The 12 gauge less lethal ammunition provides good results, requires minimal training, and is easy to purchase. 

	Rubber Buckshot - Effective against humans, large animals, crowds, and other situations where you cannot take carefully aimed shots. Contains 15 hard rubber pellets, be very careful not to aim anywhere near the neck up to prevent loss of eye sight.   We recommend shooting at the legs with this ammunition.
	Rubber Slugs - Effective for one-on-one encounters where you have time to take aimed shots.  Fires one solid hard rubber ball from each shell, which will deliver a painful blow.  Good for large animals, single human threats, and will drop any sized target with one shot.
	Shotgun Bean Bag - This shotgun bean bag round made by ALS Technologies is the latest in less lethal ammunition.  Designed for extremely close encounters, the bean bag round will drop your target with no risk of over shooting.  This shotgun round is the most popular less lethal round for bounty hunters and others requiring a quick take-down with no risk of serious injury to the target.

Benefits of Less Lethal Ammo

We hear from customers all the time about not seeing the "need" or "benefit" from less lethal ammo.  The most common statement we hear is "If I'm going to need to defend myself, I want to make sure I kill the person who is threatening me." 

We understand this statement completely, but always advise our customers to think about what happens after you pull the trigger.  What if the person lives and testifies that they were posing no threat?   What does it say to a judge, jury, or prosecutor that you shot with lethal force the first time?   Could your defense be better served if you fired a less lethal warning shot first? 

Talking to customers who have killed criminals in the line of duty, the experience is not something taken lightly.  Often times it takes months to recover from the shock and trauma.  Why not try less lethal ammunition first to see if that can be avoided?

Drug test is awaiting you and you'd really like to pass it but you are not sure if these fake urine products you've heard about actually work? We have years of experience in selling fake urine. The fake urine we sell is called QuickFix synthetic urine and we always get you the newest formula (current formula is 5.7). In all these years of selling fake urine we are yet to hear a story from a customer that failed to pass the drug test.

Here are some of the fake urine product reviews that our customers recently left on our website. There is a good reason why they trust us and always return to buy from us again. Let me quote one of our customers:

Every test I take with QF, I pass. Nothing else works as good as this. 

Been buying here from these guys since 2005. Will continue buying here as long as they keep shipping at record speeds. (Posted on 4/4/11)

How to pass a drug test tomorrow?

We understand how important it is for you to receive your fake urine on time, so we take extra care when handling these orders. You need it tomorrow? If you order before 3:00 PM EST and choose FedEx priority overnight shipping, you'll have your fake urine tomorrow. If you're not sure if we'll be able to deliver it on time, please call us (Toll Free: +1-877-703-2767, Phone: 301-576-1656) and we'll answer any questions you might have. 

Will I pass the drug test?

Fake urine we've been selling for years has a 100% success rate. We are authorized resellers of QuickFix synthetic urine. Do not buy from unauthorized resellers because you might not be getting the latest formula and you might not pass the test!

Once you pass the test, please take your time to return and write a product review for us. When you write a product review, you are given award points which can be exchanged for discount on checkout for your next order!

Military Surplus Flare Guns

Flare guns are perhaps the most fun military surplus item you will ever find that doesn't involve obtaining the services of a Federal Firearms License holder.   You can spend the afternoon shooting flares of every type and color, and yet never once have to fill out a form, wait for an approval from the government, or suffer any other inconvenience that restricts your fun.   Your flare gun is not only a fun toy, but it can also be a life saving device to signal for help in emergency situations.

We have sold tens of thousands of flare guns and have learned a lot about flare guns and why our customers love them so much.  Our flare gun customers have ranged from Hollywood movie studios to collectors of all things military.  A good number of our customers have also been military customers who've used flare guns sold by us in places like Cuba, Iraq, and Afghanistan.

Here are some examples of various military surplus flare guns we've sold:

How To Buy A Flare Gun

Purchasing a flare gun is easy, you have a few things to consider with your purchase.   The first thing you want to do is to make sure that there are no laws in your state or city preventing you from owning a flare gun.   With very few exceptions, there should be NO LAWS restricting you from owning a flare gun.   You can get a good idea if flare guns are legal by looking at your state's boating laws.   Generally you need to be 18 years of age to get a boating license in most states, so being of age to get a boating license should be the only restriction on flare gun ownership in most states.  Note, you do not HAVE to have a boating license, you simply need to be of age to get one.

Once you have verified you can legally own a flare gun, the next choice is to decide if you want a modern or classic flare gun.  We think this is an easy choice, get both the modern and the classic flare guns.  We recommend the Polish Flare Gun and the German Flare Gun to cover both the classic and modern style flare guns.  You can place your order on our website at the links we provided, or give us a call at 877-703-2767 and one of our flare gun experts will take your order.

Why You Want A Flare Gun

Watch these YouTube Videos to see how much fun you can have shooting military flare guns!

GAS MASK SALES UP IN RESPONSE TO JAPANESE NUCLEAR DISASTER

All previous records for gas mask sales have been shattered by the record breaking purchases of gas masks and chemical suits in response to the Japanese nuclear disaster.

We want our customers to know that we stocked up months ago and continue to have a large supply of gas masks and we are shipping around the clock to fill orders.  

Should you feel the need for a gas mask please visit our gas mask page and see what we can do for you.

We encourage all of our customers to follow the Reuters Live Feed for latest updates about the Japanese Nuclear Disaster.

Customer Rewards Program

We have a brand new recently implemented Customer Rewards Points system for our website!   We are excited to offer this value added service to our loyal customers who deserve to be rewarded for their support.

So how does it work?  You simply make purchases using your account on our website, and for each transaction you will earn rewards points.  Rewards points are also available for other activities, such as subscribing to our newsletter, filling out a review, or making a purchase as a member.

This sounds awesome, how do I redeem points?  Once you've built up enough rewards points to be able to redeem them (100pts) you will see an option at checkout to redeem your rewards points for the transaction.   Even if you don't have enough rewards points for your entire transaction, you can use them for a nice discount!

Here's the current Rewards Points Exchange Rate:

For Every $5 spent, you earn 1 Reward Point

For every 10 Rewards Points, you can redeem for $1.00

Register as a customer and you earn 50 Rewards Points

M1 Carbine Bayonets

The M1 Carbine is one of the most popular rifles in America.  It shares the stage with the M1 Garand, M14, and M16 rifles as a long gun that was used by the US Military.

One of the most popular things for new M1 Carbine rifle owners is to get all of the accessories.   You can spend years collecting M1 Carbine accessories of various different type and manufacturer.

Quite likely the most popular accessory for the M1 Carbine is the M1 Carbine Bayonet which comes in two varieties, the M4 Bayonet which looks like most other US Bayonets. 

Did you know that originally the M1 Carbine did not even have a bayonet lug?   If you examine an M1 Carbine with a bayonet lug, you can quickly see it was a retrofit that was done after the M1 Carbine was introduced.

The M4 Bayonet for the M1 Carbine has also seen various design changes.   It started with an ultra-rare all-leather handle, then moved to rubber, then finally to plastic grip panels like you see on most all US Bayonets.

We hope you found this quick blog entry about M1 Carbine bayonets interesting!

BREAKING NEWS - WASR-10 ACCESSORIES NO LONGER INCLUDED

After many years of importing and selling AK-47's with bayonets, slings, and cleaning kits it seems that Century Arms has finally run out of accessories to include with their popular WASR-10 rifle.

What does this mean?   Are we coming to the end of other popular AK-47 items?  Will AK-47 Magazines be in short supply in the future?  In short answer, YES.

Right now, we have plenty of AK-47 magazines and just received a huge shipment of AK-47 Slings, both European Style AK-47 Slings and original Chinese Military AK-47 Slings.

Rest assured, we are working hard at securing large quantities of AK-47 parts and accessories for our valued customers!

We get asked lots of questions about gas masks and figured it was time to blog some gas mask information.

Which Gas Mask Should I Buy?

This is the most frequently asked question we get about gas masks.   With there being so many different gas masks for sale on our website, this is an understandable question.

The first thing to consider when buying a gas mask is what exactly are you looking to protect against?  If you are being exposed to an environmental toxin such as mold, every mask we sell will protect you.  If you were going into a confirmed exposure area where radiological hazards have been released, you might want to select your mask more carefully.

The second thing to consider when buying a gas mask is how frequently you anticipate wearing it.  For example if you are just buying it to have in case of emergency, it probably doesn't matter which features the mask has as you aren't planning on wearing it for extended periods of time.  If you however think you may be wearing your mask frequently or for long periods of time, the ability to buy extra gas mask filters  will be important. 

Another feature you may want to consider is the ability of your gas mask to accept a drinking tube.  Drinking tubes attach to a special canteen for gas masks and allows you to stay hydrated while wearing your gas mask.  This may be especially important if you live in an area where it is hot or humid, as wearing a gas mask in this type of weather can be dangerous if you do not stay hydrated.

What Does This Gas Mask Protect Against?

The second most frequently asked question we get about gas masks is what will each mask protect against.   This is usually followed up by are they rated for NBC events?

For protection, the most important thing is the type of filter that you use.  All of our masks are quality masks with good tight seals and no cracks.  The filters that we provide are military grade filters that are past their expiration date, but are still sealed.  They have no cracks or dents, and we have tested their effectiveness with tear gas and found they worked 100% with tear gas.  However as the filters have passed their expiration date and we lack lab facilities for testing, we cannot guarantee what any surplus filter will protect against other than tear gas.   We strongly feel you will be well protected from any harmful element with the surplus filters, but we cannot guarantee it.

If you wish to have guaranteed protection, we do have the MESTEL Safety gas mask filters.  These are all current issue filters that have many years left before they expire.  Each one is a multi-purpose gas mask filter, designed to protect you against NBC threats.  Included with the filter are laboratory test certificates

More About Gas Masks

We will be blogging more about gas masks in the future.   We will cover differences between each gas mask, country of origin for each mask, and history behind each gas mask.  Until then, keep shooting!

Many people have been surprised that we sell Quick Fix....

Quick Fix

What exactly is Quick Fix that we sell?  Quick Fix is basically fake urine that is bottled with a temperature strip and heating pad.  It is made by Spectrum Labs and we've been stocking and selling it since 2005.  Other than Spectrum Labs, no one has been selling Quick Fix on the Internet longer than we have.

Why Do People Buy Quick Fix

The most common reason why people buy Quick Fix is to protect their privacy.  In this day and age, you are often asked for biological samples such as urine for many reasons.  For the most part these are gross invasions of your privacy. 

To give you an example, we just got a new life insurance policy, and part of the process was submitting urine sample to verify that neither myself or my wife were smokers.   Let me stop you from jumping to conclusions, the insurance agent was concerned about us smoking cigarettes rather than other stuff.

There was once a time in America where if you told your insurance agent you did not smoke cigarettes, that was enough "proof" for them to sell you a policy as a non-smoker. 

Why Do We Sell Quick Fix

We believe in privacy.   That is the number one reason.  The number two reason is it is an item in demand, priced fair, and we really enjoy dealing with the folks at Spectrum Labs who make it. 

 Hope that gives you some insight on what Quick Fix is and why its for sale on a "Gun" website!

For those of you who have been customers for awhile, you know our website has not changed for a number of years.  As we've grown, we've realized that our old website was not a good platform for growth.   Rather than make a change quickly, we spent many months considering what we needed with a new website.

Magento Professional Edition

After much research, we decided to migrate our website to Magento Professional.   Magento offers all the features we've been looking for as well as areas that our customers have wanted.   We are thrilled with the way things have turned out, even though we still have much "fine tuning" to get things 100% correct.   So if you notice anything that doesn't seem quite right yet, just realize we are still working on getting many features configured and working.

So What's New And Exciting On The Website?

The most exciting thing our new website provides is the ability to finally get our entire product catalog online, up-to-date, and fully managed.  Our warehouses are packed with exciting products that have never made it to our website.  Now with the ease and flexibility we have, you can look forward to many new items appearing weekly on our website.  

We have also fixed a number of issues with our checkout page.  Many of you frequent buyers know that this has been an issue for quite some time with errors not being handled very well on the old system.  Now you have multiple options when you check out, including to check out as a guest!

Some other highlights:

Inventory

Our inventory is being updated and within the next 30 days if you see it "in stock" it means we have it and its ready to ship to you.  Many new products have been added along with many pictures and videos showing these products.

Catalog

Our product categories have been expanded to cover outdoors, camping, clothing, and more!  If an item is out-of-stock and you want to know when it is back, sign up for product alerts!

Customer Management

Our customer management system allows us to do things like offer preferred customer discounts, etc.  We will also be adding a reward points system to give back to those who support us so frequently.

This list can go on and on...rather than list everything,  we invite you to explore our new website yourself!

We want to thank all of our customers for your years of support and patience as we've made this transition.  We promise you this is the start of better deals, more products, and even better service!

Signed,

The Entire KeepShooting.COM Team