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AD TEMPLATE.indd 1 01/05/2015 17:00

 OUTDOORS - ADRENALIN - TACTICAL - FITNESS - EXPLORE

PAUL MONAF
MEET THE TEAM

PUBLISHING DIRECTOR
VOLUME 8 ISSUE 4
Email: paul@ebcon.co.uk Welcome to Issue 4 of this volume of Raider. It’s
Tel: +44 (0)1775 750005 that time of year again when thoughts and actions
turn to annual holidays and the associated travel.
This month ‘Survival’ takes a look at what you can
STEPHEN PRINGLE do to improve the chances of your holiday going
EDITOR
off without drama, so that you come back relaxed
Email: stephen@ebcon.co.uk
and refreshed rather than more stressed than
Tel: +44 (0)1775 750005
when you left!
Connor compliments this in ‘Everyday
BEN DICKIE Essentials’, looking at indispensable items to make
ART DIRECTOR your journeys easier.
Email: design@ebcon.co.uk
On the military front, we review an excellent
Tel: +44 (0)1775 750005
book written by Leigh Neville on the role of
Special Forces in the war on terror. If you want
CONNOR MONAF to understand just how important and influential
CONTRIBUTOR
this small group of warriors has been over the
Email: connor@ebcon.co.uk
past decade you should take a look.
Direct Action this month focusses on the work
TRAMPAS SWANSON being done by HMS Bulwark in the Mediterranean
FIREARMS as part of the pan-European effort to aid refugees
Email: trampas@ebcon.co.uk from Africa and beyond. Once again, Britain’s
forces, trained for war, are putting their very
MARKUS MOTUM particular skills to peaceful purposes.
ILLUSTRATION Our regular head-to-head review looks at
Email: markus@ebcon.co.uk Bushcraft knives. What are they, what can they do
and what will they cost? Have a look at the result
SHARON MONAF of our slicing, dicing and carving and see which of
ADMINISTRATIVE DIRECTOR the knives on test gets our seal of approval.
Email: sharon@ebcon.co.uk Elsewhere you will find the usual mix of fitness,
Tel: +44 (0)1775 750005
military news and outdoors pursuits. Ever fancied
delving into a cave? We went there and give you
SUBSRCIPTIONS our opinion in Adrenaline.
SHARON MONAF: ADMINISTRATIVE DIRECTOR There is the usual round up of indispensable kit
sharon@ebcon.co.uk in ‘Deploy’, items you really should ignore if you’re
ADVERTISING out and about.
PAUL MONAF: SALES AND PUBLISHING DIRECTOR Hopefully you’ll find plenty to inform and
paul@ebcon.co.uk amuse, I’m off to start on the next issue.
EBCON PUBLISHING LTD It’s a hard life (but I love it)!
The Courtyard, Chopdike Drove, Gosberton, Clough

Stephen
Lincolnshire. PE11 4JP - United Kingdom

DISTRIBUTED BY COMAG
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Telephone: 01895 433600 / Facsimile: 01895 433605

PRINTED BY THE MAGAZINE

PRINTING COMPANY
www.magprint.co.uk
Issn: 1750-8584

ebcon
publishing ltd.

Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of articles in this magazine,

but the publisher accepts no responsibility for any errors contained in
material from independent sources or authors. Reproduction in whole
or part of any text, photography or illustration in any form without
permission from the publisher/editor is strictly prohibited. We welcome
articles, photographs or artwork. Raider Magazine cannot be held
responsible for any loss or damage to unsolicited material. Please
enclose a SAE if you wish your material to be returned. Competitions
will be judged on the dates specified. No correspondence will be entered
into and the judge’s decision is final. In the event of the published prize
not being available due to circumstances beyond the control of the
magazine, a suitable alternative of similar value will be provided.

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 VOLUME 8 ISSUE 4

CONTENTS
44
06 NEWS
NEWS FROM AROUND THE GLOBE. FUNDRAISING FOR COMBAT STRESS,
A KNIFE FIGHT AND A NEW UNIFORM FOR THE US ARMY.

09 GUNFIGHTER
TRAMPAS SWANSON INTRODUCES US TO THE WELL-ARMED WOMAN, AN
ATTEMPT TO EMPOWER FEMALE SHOOTERS IN THE USA.

14 FIREPOWER
WE TAKE A LOOK AT VORTEX OPTICS - WHAT THEY OFFER THE SHOOTER
AND HOW THEY STACK UP AGAINST THE BIGGER NAMES IN THE MARKET.

18 BOOK REVIEW
SPECIAL FORCES IN THE WAR AGAINST TERROR. A FASCINATING INSIGHT
INTO THE ROLE OF SPECIAL FORCES SINCE 911, WRITTEN BY LEIGH NEVILLE.

20 SURVIVAL: HOLIDAYS
A TOPICAL SUBJECT THIS MONTH - SUMMER HOLIDAYS SHOULD BE
RELAXING – WE DISCUSS HOW TO MAKE CERTAIN THAT THIS IS THE CASE.

22 FITNESS: STOIC CONDITIONING

A VETERAN OWNED FITNESS COMPANY AIMED AT HELPING ACTIVE,
ASPIRING AND RETIRED SOLDIERS WITH FITNESS REGIMES.

25 SNUGPAK STASHA

33
RAIDER GETS COSY WITH SNUGPAK’S NEW LIGHTWEIGHT SHELTER.

26 SNUGPAK MML3
RAIDER REVIEWS THE NEW MML3 FROM SNUGPAK – IT’S NOT THE ONLY
JACKET YOU’LL EVER NEED, BUT IT’S CLOSE!

28 EVERYDAY ESSENTIALS
WE CONTINUE THE SUMMER THEME WITH A LOOK AT THE ITEMS YOU NEED
TO MAKE YOUR TRAVELLING LESS OF A CHORE.

30 CENTREFOLD!
AWESOME IMAGES, ONLY BIGGER!

33 BUSHCRAFT KNIVES
WE HAVE MENTIONED BUSHCRAFT KNIVES LOTS IN ‘SURVIVAL’, NOW WE
PUT FIVE OF THEM THROUGH THEIR PACES.

42 DEPLOY!
GEAR WE LIKE THAT WE THINK YOU’LL LOVE!

44 ADRENALINE
WE’RE GOING DOWN AGAIN THIS MONTH, BUT NOT UNDER WATER;
UNDERGROUND! ENTER THE SUBTERRANEAN DELIGHTS OF CAVING.

47 JACK PYKE

51
WE GET WET AND DIRTY WITH JACK PYKE’S HUNTERS AND TUNDRA BOOTS.

51 DIRECT ACTION
HMS BULWARK IS IN THE FOREFRONT OF EFFORTS TO SAVE REFUGEES IN
THE MEDITERRANEAN, RAIDER LOOKS AT WHAT SHE’S UP TO.

42 28

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 R AIDER NE W S E XCLUSIVE NE WS FROM AROUND THE GL OBE - E XCLUSIVE NE WS

NEWS
THIS MONTH WE CELEBRATE 200 YEARS OF SERVICE TO THE UK BY THE INDOMITABLE GURKHAS.
WE TAKE A LOOK AT THE SUPPORT BEING GIVEN TO COMBAT STRESS BY THE GUYS FROM
RUN2RECOVERY, THERE’S A NEW CAMO PATTERN BEING INTRODUCED TO THE US ARMY AND TWO
WHAT’S HOT
FROM AROUND
THE WORLD

OF AMERICA’S BIGGEST AND BEST-KNOWN KNIFE MANUFACTURERS CLIMB INTO THE RING!

S 200TH GURKHA SERVICE ANIVERSARY

THE BRITISH CROWN CELEBRATES
Stripe
een a
atterns On the 10th of June this year, Her Majesty The Queen attended a celebration in
and honour of the thousands of Gurkhas who have served in the British Army.
form. HM The Queen was accompanied by the Duke of Edinburgh, along with the Prince
atch to of Wales and Prince Harry, at a special pageant in the grounds of the Royal Hospital
Chelsea, in London. The event, which celebrates the 200th anniversary of Gurkha
service to the British Crown, included cultural displays, re-enactments and music
from the Band of the Brigade of Gurkhas.
The event also included a period of remembrance for the thousands of people who
were killed in earthquakes in the Gurkhas’ home country of Nepal.
In front of a large audience, hundreds of current and former Gurkhas and their
families took part, as historian Dan Snow, an Honorary Colonel in the Army Reserve,
narrated the history of the Gurkhas. He was joined by actress Joanna Lumley, a
vice-patron of the Gurkhas Welfare Trust.
The Prince of Wales, as the Gurkha’s Colonel-in-Chief, wrote in the programme for
the event: “We come together to recognise and celebrate these remarkable men and
their extraordinary service to our country.
“In the 200 years that the Gurkhas have fought for the British Crown they have
earned our nation’s deepest respect and gratitude. The Gurkhas’ loyalty, coupled
with the highest professional standards, has put them at the forefront of the
British Army.”
General Sir Peter Wall, a former head of the British Army and now chairman
of the Gurkha Welfare Trust, said: “We are honoured to welcome such
distinguished guests… We are not only commemorating 200 years of
exemplary service but also raising funds for an important cause.”

THE US ARMY
ADOPTS NEW CAMOUFLAGE PATTERN
Well, sort of.. and judging by the comments
of the Sgt. Major of the Army it’s
introduction and the time-scale involved
could result in a few interesting parades...
Oh, nobody mention Multi-cough!
The Army announced today the release
of the Operational Camouflage Pattern
in Soldier uniforms. The Operational
Camouflage Pattern will be available for
purchase in select military clothing sales
stores beginning, July 1.
Stores will receive the uniforms over
a period of six months from July to
November, and new Soldiers will receive
Operational Camouflage Pattern Army
Combat Uniforms, or ACUs, beginning in
January 2016. The Operational Camouflage
Pattern was selected following the most
comprehensive uniform camouflage
testing effort ever undertaken by the
Army, reflecting the Army’s paramount
commitment to force protection.
Sgt. Maj. of the Army Daniel A. Dailey
encouraged enlisted Soldiers to purchase
new uniforms with their annual clothing
allowance. “All enlisted Soldiers receive
an annual stipend for the purchase
of uniforms and accessories. I myself
will wait until I am issued my clothing
allowance before purchasing a uniform
with the Operational Camouflage
Pattern. I encourage all Soldiers and
leaders to do the same by budgeting for
a new uniform, belt, boots, and T-shirts
as you receive your clothing allowance
over the next 2-3 years.”
Soldiers are authorized to mix and match
T-shirts, belts, and boots with either the
Operation Enduring Freedom Camouflage
Pattern or the Operational Camouflage
Pattern during the transition period -
expected to run through Oct. 1, 2019. To
further ease the change, Soldiers, who
already have Flame Resistant ACUs in the
Operational Enduring Freedom Camouflage
Pattern, will be authorized to wear them
during the transition.
“I have asked non-commissioned officers
to ensure their Soldiers understand
that during this transition period,
several uniforms and variations will be
authorized in our formations,” Dailey said.
“Presenting a professional appearance is
very important to Soldiers. But, we will not
inconvenience or burden our troops. We
will still be the most lethal fighting force
the world has even known even if our belts
don’t match for the next few years.”
In addition to the camouflage change,
the Operational Camouflage Pattern ACUs
will incorporate minor design changes.
These include redesigned shoulder sleeve
pockets with a zipper opening, no trouser
drawstring, a button on the lower calf
pocket, two pen pockets on the sleeve
instead of three, and the elimination of the
elbow and knee patch hook and loop.

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NE WS FROM AROUND THE GL OBE - E XCLUSIVE NE WS FROM AROUND THE GL OBE
LUSIVE NEWS FROM AROUND THE GLOBE - EXCLUSIVE NEWS FROM ARO

RUN 2 RECOVERY
THE
IN AID PMCOMBAT
DUCHESS
OF REVEALS
OPENS MEASURES
NEW
STRESS
HOME OFINTHE KING’S
LATEST TROOPVISIT
AFGHAN
In 2014, Run 2 Recovery set out to run from Tyrwhitt House in Surrey to Hollybush House in Ayrshire via
our Shropshire treatment centre, Audley Court to raise funds to support our work. Following on from this
incredible challenge the two man team, Danny and Josh, who serve in the Royal Engineers, now have plans
to raise even more and challenge themselves in new ways.
On Friday 29 May, the team visited Audley Court to meet the Veterans and take part in a fun day made up
of a Veteran and staff Bake Off, with a great lunch provided by Greggs the Bakers and enjoyed a Baseball
er
lesson from the Guildford Mavericks. Rememb your
r is .
R a i d e over
During the day, Danny and Josh announced the line-up of challenges that they will pursue n e next
m a g a the
z i
now
three years including the Cardiff Half Marathon in October. To keep it interesting, DannyS oand u s kaim
l e tJosh p tto
o
h a t y o u’ e u
r
complete the run in 1 hour and 30minutes, donating £100 of their own money to Combat w Stress
h e r for
e v e revery
w
minute they go over their target. If you would like to keep up to date with everything that the you a r e !is
team
planning you can find their Facebook Page.
Combat Stress is the UK’s leading Veterans’ mental health charity.
Mental ill-health affects ex-Service men and women of all ages. Right now, we’re supporting over 5,900
Veterans aged from 18 to 97. We’re a vital lifeline for these men and women, and their families.
Run2Recovery - Danny Hirst and Josh Conway are continuing to raise money for Combat Stress in the
form of physical challenges.
The Duchess of Cornwall opened the new Woolwich home of The King’s Troop Royal Horse Artillery
in
OnMarch and visit
his latest unveiled a plaque to the
to Afghanistan, commemorate
Prime Ministerthe David
changeCameron
of the name of the new barracks,
has announced a packagefrom of
Napier
measures Lines to King George
to provide VI Lines.
a significant boost to the British military campaign. Both UK troops and the
The Regiment
Afghan Nationalmoved
Securityfrom theirwill
Forces barracks
benefitinfrom
St Johns Woodfunding
increased in February this year,
and state having
of the been
art equipment.
stationed there for over 200 years. The new state of the art facilities house 120 horses and 150
The Prime
soldiers andMinister announced:
cost £16.5 million.
✪To£33.1 millionthe
celebrate for visit
the development of the Afghan
to the new state-of-the artNational
facilities,Police in 2010/11;
the Duchess including
toured building
the forge,
seven police
veterinary stations
centre andinstables,
addition to viewed
and the two aUK-funded
demonstrationpoliceofstations opened
12 horses in Helmand
exercising the Gun last month.
✪ £135 million
Carriages, whichto carry
double 13Reaper
pounderRemotely Piloted
guns which wereAircraft System
first used (RPAS).
in the first world war. The carriages
are used to fire the guns during The Queen’s birthday parade, State Visits and Remembrance
Accompanied by the Chief of the Defence Staff, General Sir David Richards, the Prime Minister arrived
Sunday.
at Camp Bastion in Helmand province, then travelled to the Main Operating Base in Lashkar Gah for
The Duchess visited the officers’ mess at the start of the visit, to board a horse-drawn open-top
a briefing by Commander Task Force Helmand, Brigadier James Chiswell on the progress made by the
carriage, known as a Sociable Carriage.
Provincial Reconstruction Team to drive social, economic and political development in the area.
During her visit the Duchess also presented Afghanistan service medals to four soldiers from the
He later met soldiers who crew and maintain the newly operational Warthog armoured vehicle.
King’s Troop who have just returned from frontline duties.
Visiting the Helmand Police Training Centre on the outskirts of Lashkar Gah to present graduation
Before departing the Duchess unveiled a plaque to commemorate the opening of the King George
certificates to newly qualified Afghan policemen; he revealed that the extra £33.1 million resources
VI Lines and Commanding Officer Major Mark Edward presented Her Royal Highness with a specially
would help build or refurbish 48 police stations, including seven to be opened before spring 2011.
engraved and polished 13 pound gun shell which had been used to fire the Royal Salute to mark the
These improvements to essential infrastructure, in addition to more resources for training, will
start of Her Majesty The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee on 6 February 2012.
help the Afghan National Police appear both more visible and more professional to the Afghan
population, enabling them to carry out their role more effectively.
AFGHANS
Prime Minister Cameron said: OUTGUN THE BRITISH

IN
serving A FRIENDLY CRICKET
making. I say to them, itCLASH
“I know the thoughts will be of home and of loved ones; I would like personally to thank everyone

COLD STEEL SUE CRKT

in Afghanistan for the sacrifice they are
and we must continue to do all we can to help you endure.
is great work you are doing

OVER MARKETING CLAIM!

Afghan
“This cricketers
is my sixthknocked the British Army
visit to Afghanistan, for six when
to Helmand they and
Province, met whatfor a two-day clashgrounds
I see is some in the heart
for of
Helmand Province. The amount of ground that’s covered by the forces is up, the amount of markets
cautious optimism.
A British
that are open, team, theselected
number from across allandthree branches of thethat armed areforces serving on Operation
TacticsCold Steel Inc. has of sued provincial
Columbia River district governors
Sliding the LAWKS® in place, the number
lever forward assures of
Herrick
schools 15, thattook
are on a team
open, from of
the level thesecurity;
Afghan there
Nationalare Army
lots of(ANA) and a team improvement.”
of Afghan interpreters in a
Knife & Tool (CRKT), alleging that claims in that the signs
folderofispositive
a virtual fixed blade. . . .
two-day series of 20/20 cricket matches in Camp Bastion in front of over 1,500 ANA spectators.
CRKT’s marketing materials are misleading Integrated into the design is the patented
The British Forces Afghanistan team trained for days to prepare for the game against the avid Afghan
ROYAL TANK REGIMENT
consumers into purchasing folding knives that LAWKS® safety, which effectively converts the
cricketers, and the three sides sized each other up beforehand in the cricket nets at the ANA’s Camp
do not perform as advertised and that could [knife] into a virtual fixed blade. . .
Shorabak, next to Camp Bastion. But when the matches started the impressive Afghan teams took

UNLEASH NEW VEHICLES

potentially expose consumers to the risk of The AutoLAWKS™ lever moves forward
British Forces Afghanistan to the cleaners, with victories going to both the ANA and interpreter sides.
serious injury. CRKT claims that several of automatically whenever the blade is opened
The British team were all out for 75 versus the ANA team’s score of 165, much to the rapture of
thethe locking of
audience mechanisms
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for seven whileoldthe
knife
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and fixed
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to something even better, When
the the
mighty blade is
Warthog. opened, locked and the
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on June
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and whenever
were (Case 2:15-cv-04166),
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both To fixed
reflect
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played atnot
theiraccidentally
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in blue-and-red RTR while
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claim are now
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to the complaint, these claims
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to folding as that including
of a fixed moving
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of the slopes and
spectators incrossing
the drainage ditches the new Warthog
one-piece provides troops with high levels
construction.
of protection
stands“Consumers
was ANA whilst are
Corpsgiving
entitled commanders
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Steel’s in areas
complaint where theon
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the Cold more agile
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President needed.
Lynn C CRKT’s locking mechanisms perform “worse
Corporal
Thompson.
Afghan Tristan
National “They ‘Tiny’
Army need Cordery
to know
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whatfrom Fowey in Cornwall,
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a veteran of two tours
comparably pricedof knives,
Iraq and
andcanone
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Kosovo,
can’t do. and
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nationin ofAfghanistan
people who on priorfar worsedeployments.
than lowerHecost hasknives
now returned to
manufactured
Afghanistan
USEsaid:
He as a Warthog
our knives. Responsible commander with 2want
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“There
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Steel is entitled This gives
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caused and that’s
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“blatantly false
in reliability
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competition played
and in
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they should expect.”environment ofclaims”
Afghanistan.and “dishonest tactics” about the
It With thisthat
is According
good firepower
British
to comes
and Afghan
the complaint, good armour. The Warthog
CRKT’s can take
strength of rocket-propelled
their knives. Coldgrenade Steel alsohits,
seeks
machine are
soldiers gun fire and has better protection from IEDs.
statementsable relate to spend
to three quality
locking mechanisms an injunction, treble damages, and attorneys’
This
time combination
workingAutoLAWKS™ of firepower
together.” and L.B.S™ CRKT’s and protection is what us Tankies are looking for in a vehicle. We’re
– LAWKS®, fees.”It’s never good when two well-known
ready to go out with the RTR mentality and apply armoured tactics in support of our guys with boots
printed and online marketing materials include names end up having a public dispute,
on the ground.”
statements which include: hopefully this will be resolved quickly.

MARCH
MAY W2011 WWW.RAIDER-MAG.COM
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 T H E W E L L

ARMED WOMANONCE UPON A TIME, THERE LIVED A PRINCESS WHO WAS HELD CAPTIVE BY AN EVIL DUKE. THIS PRINCESS
WAITED FOR HER PRINCE TO COME DAY AFTER DAY WITH NO AVAIL. FINALLY ONE DAY, THE EVIL DUKE DECIDED
TO DO THE PRINCESS HARM AND HAVE HIS WAY WITH HER. THE PRINCESS BRAVELY CONFRONTED THE EVIL
DUKE, PULLED OUT HER 9MM GLOCK AND STOPPED HIM DEAD IN HIS TRACKS. THE PRINCESS LIVED HAPPILY
EVER AFTER DEFENDING HERSELF FROM THEN ON AGAINST DANGER.
Tr am pa s.

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FIREP O PERHAPS THE FASTEST GROWING NAME
IN THE OPTICS INDUSTRY WITHIN RECENT
YEARS HAS GOT TO BE THAT OF VORTEX
OPTICS. EVERYWHERE YOU LOOK IN
MAGAZINES AND ON TV, TOP NAMES IN
SHOOTING SPORTS AND TACTICAL TRAINING
ARE RUNNING PRODUCTS FROM THIS
SEEMINGLY NEW COMPANY. WHO ARE THEY,
WHERE DID THEY COME FROM AND HOW
DID THEY COME FROM OUT OF NOWHERE TO
CONTEND WITH THE “KINGS OF THE OPTICS

WORLD” SO FAST? THIS MONTH WE WILL
TAKE A LOOK AT THIS POPULAR COMPANY
AND SOME OF THEIR INDUSTRY LEADING
PRODUCTS TO GIVE YOU AN IDEA WHY THE BIG
NAMES ARE NOW CHOOSING VORTEX OPTICS.
Tracing their roots back to the small Midwest sporting
goods store founded by owners, Dan and Margie
Hamilton, Vortex Optics evolved from years of hard
work and the desire to give their customers what
they wanted. Officially hitting the scene in 2002
direct from Middleton, Wisconsin, Vortex Optics
would start a whole new direction for the Hamilton’s
sporting good shop. This debut was immediately
faced with the difficulties second guessing of any new
company in the optics community. First of course,
would be skepticism and then outright mistrust of a
new company. With very reasonable prices for the
products offered, they couldn’t be that good, right?
What if the product broke? I’m sure the company
would be hard to deal with or not back their product
considering what the original price point was to begin
with, correct? Dan and Margie knew these were not
questions someone can just answer in a magazine or
sales ad, so they decided to stick to their guns and
let the product speak for itself as time passed. This
approach proved to work in the favor of Vortex Optics
although their success appeared to most people as an
overnight sensation.
In a state well known for its hunting, fishing and
cheese, the American consumer had long been
brand loyal to the staple of optics our fathers and
grandfathers used. I know this because I too grew up
using the same name brand optics my family had used
for 50 + years. When I was first introduced to Shamus
Terry of the Vortex Optics Marketing department a
few years ago when I began writing professionally, I
foolishly put my foot in my mouth and came across
very closed minded and brand loyal. As Shamus
and I had been discussing the optics industry for a
only a few minutes when I clearly stated, “Shamus,
I really like what I see from Vortex but to be honest,
I have always been a Leupold man. Coming from a
family of accomplished hunters, I have used Leupold
scopes ever since I shot my first squirrel rifle at
age 6, all the way through my Law Enforcement
background and adult hunting ventures exclusively
using their products”. Instead of being offended or
VORTEX
THE FORCE OF OPTICS
try to hit me with a sales pitch, Shamus just said
that he appreciated my honesty as we continued to
discuss the new items set to hit the market. When our
conversation was over, Shamus offered to send three
Vortex optics for review, and asked to speak once
those reviews were done.
A SPARC II
A few short weeks after my discussion with Shamus
Terry of Vortex Optics, a box arrived with the three
review samples inside. The first of these was a small
non-magnified red dot optic listed as the Speed Point
Aiming for Rapid Combat or SPARC II. This optic is
Vortex’s venture into the “micro” red dot market.
Featuring a crisp 2 MOA red or green dot option, the
SPARC II offers a wide range of mounting options from
direct mount to a Picatinny rail, 1/3 mount and full
iron sight co-witness height mount all included in the
box. Despite Its small size, the SPARC II felt solid and
well-constructed. The rear facing controls are easy
to operate on the fly even when shooting with gloves.
When mounting your firearm to shoot, the SPARC II
offered a wide range of view and did not in any way
distort my field of vision with the rest of the housing.
This is probably my biggest complaint with red dot
optics such as the EOTECH series. While I started with
successfully testing it’s durability on my Benelli M4
shotgun, the SPARC II eventually found its permanent
home atop my Noveske AR-15. After roughly 200
rounds of 12 gauge and over 300 rounds of 5.56, I
firmly believe in the SPARC II’s toughness. This red
dot is small and light enough that I even have fellow
shooters who compete regularly in events using the
SPARC II mounted on their handguns. Retailing around
$200 US, it’s twice the red dot optic as most of its
competitors and at half the cost.
B RAZOR HD GEN II 1-6X24 JM-1
Next out of the box was a very nice mid-range optic
from the top end of Vortex’s line up listed as the
variable power Razor HD 1-6x24 JM-1. This scope was
developed for one of the world’s top shooters, Jerry
Miculek from Team Smith & Wesson and Team Vortex.
This version offers a crystal clear illuminated reticle
with BDC or Bullet Drop Compensation set on a highly
sought after First Focal Plane or FFP. With a First
Focal Plane scope, your reticle adjust accordingly as
you increase and decrease magnification. This allows
for the use of the same holds to be used regardless
of magnification power unlike the more common, yet
much more affordable second plane reticle scopes on
the market.
While on the topic of magnification, this is optic
offers a magnification of 1 to 6 power while still being
light and compact enough to run on a compact AR-15
platform rifle. When mounting my rifle, the forgiving

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P OWER A B
eye relief and large ocular lens act more as an open
optic than a traditional tubed scope. The large 30mm
tube construction and ocular lens offer just as much
or more viewing area than most red dot optics on
the market which allows for faster target acquisition.
Retailing at $1999 US, it is a premium optics still
managing to come in at around $300 - $500 less
than its direct competition. Unlike most of Vortex’s
competitors, there is a lower power 1-4x24 model in
their quality Viper PST line with the traditional Second
Focal Plane (SFP), which can be found for around
$599. Since reviewing these three scopes, I have been
personally been running one of these 1-4x24 scopes in
training and classes that I teach with great success.
C RAZOR HD GEN II 5-20X50
Last but certainly not least, perhaps my favorite scope
in the group was ready for testing. Vortex certainly
decided to put their best foot forward in sending the
variable power Razor HD Gen II 5-20x50 featuring a
massive 34mm erector tube construction. Just holding
this scope in my hand felt like it could be a weapon by
itself. Clearly built for long range precision shooting,
it had all my favorite features for this category. The
turrets were large and easy to use while focusing the
scope at various distances was possible very quickly
with very few adjustments. The eye review was very
forgiving which comes in handy when dealing with
014-015 FIREPOWER.indd 15
heavy recoiling long range rifles. This scope was seen
last year in the pages of Raider Magazine as part of
my Armalite AR50 rifle chambered in the monster .50
BMG round. Even after over a hundred rounds down
range since appearing in Raider Magazine, the scope is
just as crisp and functional as the day it was sighted in.
Previously, this same rifle’s recoil had broken 2 much
cheaper constructed name brand scopes in the past
before going with the Razor HD Gen II.
Like the 1-6x24 mentioned earlier, this optic is from
the same top line of Vortex scopes known as the Razor
HD series. It has a FFP EBR-2C (MRAD) illuminated
reticle and L-Tec turret system that allows you to reset
to zero once you are dialed in. This scope is basically
the same high quality and reliability as scopes from
the Viper line, only BIGGER! Everything from the
turrets to the aircraft aluminum-grade erector tube is
larger to house the amazingly clear lenses. This scope
is easily a direct competitor for any high end scope on
the world market from the larger names in optics. As
an added bonus, Vortex adds extras in the box with
this model that most companies would additionally
charge a premium for, such as a screw on sunshade,
Anti-Reflection Device (ARD) and anti-cant bubble level
ring to mount directly on the erector tube. Retailing at
around $2700 US, the Razor HD Gen II 5-20x50 offers
the same clarity and performance of its competitors
easily breaking the $3000 price mark. Since the test
period for this scope, Vortex’s catalogue has updated
their offering of this model from a 5-20 to a massive
4.5-27 variable power for roughly the same cost.
FINAL THOUGHTS
After approximately 14 months and three very
impressive reviews later, I contacted Shamus at Vortex
and let him know when to expect the review articles
to appear. In speaking, I found myself apologizing
for my closed minded statement given in our first
conversation. In just over a year with the optics
supplied by Vortex, I found their products second to
none. As I told Shamus, despite my years of experience
with numerous name brand scopes, Vortex was more
than just a scope company, it was a people company.
Unknown to Shamus, I had not only spent the time
enjoying the high quality products offered an great
prices, but also talking to several other people in the
optics industry from team shooters to new customers
to find out what the inside word was about such an
impressive company. Everyone I spoke with about
Vortex Optics had only great things to say about their
customer service. One gentleman in Atlanta, Georgia
even stated he accidentally dropped his rifle from a
deer stand while hunting and broke his scope on one
of the ladder steps. When he called Vortex to see what
it would cost to replace his broken scope, he was told
to mail it back and another would be on the way at
no cost. As the months went on, several of these type
stories started coming into my email about incidents
where the company was not at fault for the product’s
damage, but yet Vortex took 100% care of the owners
with new products and a friendly experience.
In conclusion, I discovered Vortex’s seemingly
overnight success was nothing less than a true story
of American hard work over time and dedication to
taking care of the people who buy their products.
When companies like Vortex Optics work this hard to
succeed and put people ahead of profits, they can’t
help but make it look easy. To learn more about the
great line of Vortex products, visit them at www.
vortexoptics.com.
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AD TEMPLATE.indd 1 07/04/2015 23:15
 MEDIA REVIEW SPECIAL FORCES ON OUR RADAR
Neville is at home with his subject and his
knowledge is evident throughout the book. This
is not a work for wannabes, rather it is a timely
and well-written exploration of the vital role that
these often mythologised but seldom understood
forces have played in the current world climate.
Beginning with the attacks on the Twin Towers in
2001 and the resultant actions against the Taliban
and Al Qaeda in Afghanistan, Neville takes the
reader on a journey through all the campaigns
that Special forces from many nations have been
involved in. At times this feels a bit like acronym
spaghetti, this is hardly Neville’s fault rather
it reflects the way that the military of various
nations chooses to name and define their various
forces and command structures. We think you’ll
be forgiven if you find yourself reaching for the
glossary on several occasions just to work out
who is doing what to whom!
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018 BOOK REVIEW.indd 18
BOOK REVIEW
SPECIAL FORCES
IN THE WAR ON TERROR
AUTHOR: LEIGH NE VILLE - PUBLISHED BY OSPRE Y PUBLISHING
SPECIAL FORCES (SF) ARE A POPULAR SUBJECT FOR MILITARY BOOKS,
UNFORTUNATELY THE RESULTING WORKS ARE TOO OFTEN RIDDLED WITH
HYPERBOLE, INACCURACIES OR BOTH. IT IS THEREFORE IMMENSELY REFRESHING
TO ENCOUNTER A BOOK WHICH IS ALMOST ENTIRELY DEVOID OF BOTH VICES,
OFFERING INSTEAD A COMPREHENSIVE OVER-VIEW OF THE ROLE SPECIAL FORCES
HAVE PLAYED IN THE GLOBAL WAR AGAINST TERROR SINCE 9/11.
Once you penetrate the jargon, you will find a load-outs of current and recent SF operations.
clear narrative describing the roles assigned It is also an engrossing history lesson about
to Special Forces in the past decade or so the changing face of warfare in a world of
along with accounts of various operations that uncertainties. Whilst it is true that the full might
they were involved with. If the book seems to of Western military forces were deployed in Iraq
concentrate on the US military that is just a and Afghanistan it is sobering to reflect upon
reflection of the high level of activity by their the achievements of a relatively small group of
various SF branches. There is a section in the highly trained soldiers, who, working with local
book outlining the various SF groups deployed forces in Afghanistan drove out Al Qaeda and the
by other nations, their specialities and the Taliban in less than two months. It is regrettable
operations they were involved in. that thereafter the same forces were required to
This isn’t a technical book, one which run many operations and to pull many tours to
concentrates exclusively on all the ‘Gucci’ counter the insurgencies that resulted.
gear used by SF personnel, however it is clear Published in hardback and of impressive
that Neville is not lacking in knowledge and coffee-table dimensions, it might be easy to
his commentary on equipment shown in the dismiss this book as eye-candy rather than
plentiful pictures in the book is spot on and a work of history. That would be a mistake.
accurate. Although probably not intended as There is a story being told here, one that is
such, this is an excellent resource for re-enactors on-going and relevant to the world we currently
or anyone interested in capturing the look and live in. It is to Leigh Neville’s great credit that
he manages to capture and encapsulate the
difficulties and dangers of these operations
without straying into the territory of the
wide-eyed adulation where everything that SF
personnel do is surrounded by a God-like haze.
Their work is dangerous, dirty and necessary
and things do go wrong on occasion.
‘Special Forces in the war on terror’ is timely
book. The threats it describes are still around, in
some respects increasing. Although the world is
statistically a safer place than it has ever been,
you could be forgiven for thinking otherwise.
The requirement for the skills possessed by
Special Forces around the world is not diminished
simply because politicians have decided that an
end-game has been reached in this country or
that. If you want an understanding of what these
secretive units are truly capable of and why they
remain so important to the maintenance of peace
and freedom, this book is definitely for you. It is
a history book for our times, and we suspect for
many years yet to come.
Osprey Publishing at £25.00 in hardback.
15/06/2015 13:11
 SURVIVAL: HOLIDAY PREPARATION 101 - HOLIDAY PREPARA
GETTING THERE SAFELY
STAY STAFE OUT THERE
BY THE TIME THIS ISSUE OF RAIDER
HITS THE NEWSTANDS, WE WILL BE
WELL INTO SUMMER HOLIDAY SEASON,
SO WE THOUGHT WE WOULD DO
SOMETHING A LITTLE DIFFERENT WITH
SURVIVAL THIS MONTH AND LOOK AT
THE PERILS OF SUMMER TRAVEL AND
VACATIONS AND HOW TO MITIGATE
THEM, SURVIVE AND ACTUALLY ENJOY
THE HOLIDAY AT THE OTHER END!
It follows that we shan't be dealing with wild
bears, avalanches or monsoons (well, maybe
monsoons) but having your vacation interrupted
or your travel turned into a living hell is no joke
and while it might not be life threatening, it can
leave you feeling homicidally depressed. This is
not a good start to a break!
PREPARATION
Like any journey be it on foot through the wilds
or by XYZ Airlines, preparation is key. The
internet has made it easy to check what you
need by way of documents, insurance etc. so
REALISING THAT YOUR PRIORITY IS
TO ENJOY YOURSELF AND FAILING
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020-021 SURVIVAL.indd 20
spend a little time and make sure you have
what you need. If those documents are vital –
passports for instance – it's a very good idea
to photocopy the information page and keep
it with you and separate from the passports
themselves. Believe us it can save you a whole
mountain of grief should the originals be lost
or stolen.
Preparation extends to what you're taking
with you. If like me you are off to drive through
Europe, you'll be checking regulations for the
country or countries you're visiting. Some
are utterly perplexing; in France it is a legal
requirement to have a breathalyser in your car,
but the French Government has abolished the
penalty for not carrying one.. What exactly is
that about?! Play safe, buy a couple, and spare
yourself a possible discussion with a Gendarme
who is far more fluent in his native language
than you are. If possible, pack light, especially if
you are flying. I know it isn't always possible to
avoid checked baggage but it will speed you on
your way if you can. I apply the same reasoning
to the car, the less we need to take the less
we have to take, which just makes life easier
for everyone. Lists are your friend here, they
aren't sexy but they are an invaluable way of
remembering things and jogging your memory
about things you might have forgotten.
"PACK LIGHT SO IF THE WEATHER
TURNS FOUL YOU CAN JUST NIP
TO A LOCAL SUPERMARKET OR
TOWN AND PICK UP A CHEAP
WATERPROOF. IT'S NOT ABOUT
BEING WELL-OFF, IT'S ABOUT
TO DO THAT FOR THE SAKE OF A
MODEST HIT ON YOUR CREDIT
CARD IS A FALSE ECONOMY.
If you are flying, and many of you will be,
make sure you know what you can and cannot
take onto the plane with you. Since 9/11
and subsequent incidents, airlines are now
hyper-vigilant and quite restrictive about what is
allowed into the cabin. This applies to all flights
so although it may be quite legal to bring that
razor-sharp ceremonial sword into your country,
don't be surprised if airline staff insist it's going
nowhere near their cabin.
MONEY
You have it, others want it so make it as difficult
as possible for them to relieve you of it. These
days it is much easier although not always
cheaper, to use a local ATM to get currency, but
it's worth checking the charges your bank levies.
The advantage is that you spare yourself the risk
and responsibility of carrying large amounts of
easily stolen cash, the downside is that you may
feel a little vulnerable using ATMs. If that's the
case, take a friend when you go to get cash and
use ATMs in busy shopping areas.
If you have to carry your cash with you due a
lack of banks or cash machines keep it in small
denominations and split it between the various
members of your party. It's no guarantee of
safety but it spreads the risk a little. If you want
to be even more prepared keep a small amount
in notes in your pocket so that in the event of
a mugging you can hand that over hopefully
satisfying the thief and protecting the bulk of
your holiday stash. A final thought on the money
front, if you are planning to use your cards
abroad, tell your bank when and where you are
going, otherwise in these fraud-concious days
you are likely to find them being stopped.
PHONE HOME ET
Your phone is your friend, it's your camera,
your internet connection, everything. It's also
valuable so don't go waving it around with it's
solid gold case on unless you want someone
to covet it. It's a sensible idea to write
down important numbers – consulate, bank,
breakdown service and suchlike somewhere
that won't be lost if your phone goes west
without you. If you can justify the cost, pick up
a cheap SIM-free phone before you go or even
once you get there. I have seen really cheap
deals in French and Belgian supermarkets.
Once at your destination pick up a Pay as You
Go SIM from a local provider. It'll save you
money if you're calling local numbers and it
will give you a backup should anything happen
to your main phone. Remember also that
although they are getting scarce in the UK, pay
phones in the street are not uncommon in the
rest of the world.
15/06/2015 13:32
PARATION 101 - HOLIDAY PREPARATION 101 - HOLIDAY PREP

YOU CAN ALWAYS BUY ANOTHER...
This is really applicable to the more developed
parts of the world and I do appreciate that your
view on this will be influenced by your budget
but...don't let something you have forgotten or
lost spoil your time away. Go get another one.
Camera stolen? Digital cameras, especially
compacts, aren't that expensive, far less
expensive than the holiday you currently cannot
record so don't ruin your vacation for the sake
of a few pounds, euros or dollars. Even if it is
far cheaper than the one you lost it will at least
give you loads of pictures to bore your friends
with and you can sort out the insurance when
you get home. The same applies to, well, pretty
much everything. I pack light so if the weather
turns foul I may just nip to a local supermarket
or town and pick up a cheap waterproof. It's
not about being well-off, it's about realising
that your priority is to enjoy yourself and failing
to do that for the sake of a modest hit on your
credit card is a false economy.
CRIME
Sadly crime is a fact throughout the world and
there is only so much you can do to protect
yourself. Pickpockets are rife, especially in
cities and have a thousand and one ways to
distract you. Secure pockets and bags will go a
long way to deterring them but even that may
not be enough. Reporting crime can be very hit
or miss. Local friends can help as can holiday
company reps if applicable and your insurance
may be null and void if you fail to get a crime
report number when making a claim. Check
before you go and be prepared to put up with
local bureaucracy if absolutely necessary.
IT COSTS NOTHING TO BE POLITE
Being nice on it's own isn't a survival strategy
but it can help everyone get along and avoid
minor issues escalating to something nasty.
It might (just might) make you slightly less
of a target for petty criminals as you are less
likely to stand out like a sore thumb amongst
the local population. If you are wearing a
sombrero, a Hawaiian shirt and flip flops and
shouting loudly in English, sorry, politeness
alone won't save you!
If you are fluent in the language of your
host country, great, if not at least learn the
basics. It's not difficult and it really makes a
difference, even if the person with whom your
speaking turns out to speak better English than
you do! Courtesy generally goes a long way and
costs nothing – you have gone away to relax
and enjoy yourself so don't let rudeness turn
everything into a running battleground.

DRUGS?
Don't mind if I do! Obviously, if you have
medication you need, make sure you have
arranged enough before you leave. Over
the shelf stuff like pain killers and stomach
remedies are so cheap in the UK that it would
be foolish not to take a supply although not so
many that your cases rattle. You can probably
buy what you need abroad, and from experience
European pharmacists are really helpful, but
can you say “something for diarrhoea please” in
Swahili? No, me neither so spare yourself the
grief. A basic first aid kit is a necessity in cars
in many countries and a sensible precaution
however you travel. Again they are cheap
enough and you can augment it with wherever
else you need. Be aware that some countries
may not permit drugs you have been prescribed,
if in doubt check well in advance as a stint in jail
may be a memory you'd rather not keep for the
rest of your life.
Some drugs are controlled by law here in the
UK and taking them abroad may involve an
amount of leaping through hoops. If in doubt,
check with (www.nhs.co.uk) or better still, your
regular GP.

SURVIVING A VACATION AND THE ASSOCIATED TRAVEL SHOULDN'T BE DIFFICULT. THE SORT OF PREPARATION COVERED IN
THIS ARTICLE JUST TIPS THE BALANCE IN FAVOUR OF YOU HAVING A GREAT TIME. NOW, GO AND ENJOY YOUR HOLIDAYS!

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 FITNESS ESSENTIALS S T O I C C O N D I T I O N I N G - S T O I C C O N D I T I

STOIC CONDITIONING
AND THE MILITARY ATHLETE
THE RISE OF THE MILITARY ATHLETE
HAS BEEN ONE DRIVEN BY THE NEEDS
OF TWO THINGS - SERVING SOLDIERS
WHO NEED A GUIDING HAND WITH
THEIR TRAINING, AS WELL AS THOSE
WHO SIMPLY ASPIRE TO OBTAIN
MILITARY-GRADE CONDITIONING.
THE MILITARY ATHLETE IS MORE
INTERESTED IN WHAT HE CAN DO
WITH HIS MUSCLE, AS OPPOSED TO
HOW GOOD SAID MUSCLE LOOKS. YOU
WON’T CATCH THE MILITARY ATHLETE
SKIPPING CARDIO BECAUSE IT’LL
EFFECT HIS GAINS… YOU’LL FIND HIM
AT THE FRONT OF THE PACK, YOU’LL FIND
HIM PUSHING HIMSELF TO HIS LIMITS
REGARDLESS OF HIS ENVIRONMENT.
The military athlete is something that has slowly
started to become recognised within the fitness
world over the past half a decade or so. With the
widely acclaimed use of military style ‘bootcamps’
as a popular fitness regime, the interest in military
style training has flourished. However, beyond
these bootcamps, there are a small group of
individuals who aim to push themselves to their
maximum; those associated with the Armed Forces
- be they serving, aspiring or retired.
Whilst there are a range of very good training
programs out there aimed at various different
athletes, as well as some very good reference
books aimed at the Armed Forces, the market
has lacked a definitive training regime aimed at
the various different branches, written by people
who’ve recently gone through said training. Until
recently that is.
Stoic Conditioning, a veteran owned and
operated company established in 2015 by a former
sharpshooter in the Royal Marines and combat
veteran of Afghanistan saw the need for such
training regimes, and quickly began work. Having
left the Royal Marines, ‘Easy’ (Due to potential
security threats we are unable to refer to Easy
by his real name) began work on a BSc Hons in
Exercise Science as well as becoming certified
as a National Strength and Conditioning, Tactical
Strength and Conditioning Facilitator.
Stoic Conditioning aim to provide strength and
conditioning plans for the Military Athlete; be they
serving, aspiring or retired. ‘Easy’ has established
a set Team of former and serving Royal Marine
Commandos whom are all certified strength &
conditioning coaches as well as performance
nutritionists, all in the intentions of allowing
a greater understanding of the needs of the
modern-day warfighter through a mix of previous
experiences and high level educational knowledge.
Stoic Conditioning now offer four different
books, each aimed at a different military branch
of the UK Armed Forces; giving the end user a
largely insightful look at preparing yourself for
the various trials you will come up against. So far
Stoic Conditioning have published ebooks seen
here below.

WE HAVE PERSONALLY HAD THE CHANCE TO READ THE PRMC EBOOK, AND HAVE THE TACTICAL MASS TRAINING BOOK ON THE LIST, AND
I HAVE TO SAY I’VE BEEN VERY IMPRESSED BY THE ATTENTION TO DETAIL IN REGARDS TO THE TRAINING PLAN GIVEN FOR THE PRMC.
HAVING SEEN THE TRAINING REQUIREMENTS FOR THE PRMC, THE STOIC CONDITIONING TRAINING PROGRAM SEES TO ALL
THE NEEDS PUT ON THE BODY BY THE PRMC, AND IN MY EYES WILL PUT ANY ASPIRING ROYAL MARINE IN A MUCH BETTER POSITION.

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DITIONING - STOIC CONDITIONING - STOIC CONDITIONING
THE POTENTIAL ROYAL MARINES
COURSE: TRAINING PLAN: £40.00
■ 12 Week Training Plan.
■ Train 5 days a week.
■ 3 Phases specific for PRMC physical
standards.
■ Use as a stand alone plan, covering
strength training, circuit training and
running both short and long distances.
PARACHUTE REGIMENT
ASSESSMENT COURSE TRAINING
PLAN: £40.00
■ 12 Week Training Plan.
■ Train 5 days a week.
■ 3 Phases specific for PRAC physical
standards.
■ Use as a stand alone plan, covering
strength training, circuit training and
running both short and long distances.
ARMY DEVELOPMENT & SELECTION
CENTRE TRAINING PLAN: £25.00
■ 9 Week Training Plan
■ Train 4 days a week
■ Specific circuit training for ADSC physical
standards.
■ Use as a stand alone plan, covering circuit
training and running short distances.
022-023 FITNESS.indd 23
TACTICAL MASS TRAINING
PROGRAMME: £30.00 ‘EASY’ PROFILE
■ 12 Week Training Plan.
■ The team leader and founder of stoic conditioning.
■ Train 5 days a week.
■ A former serving sharpshooter in the Royal Marines
■ Designed for increasing functional muscle
and combat veteran of Afghanistan.
mass specific to military duty.
■ BSc Hons in Exercise Science and certified as a
■ Use as a stand alone plan, covering
strength, hypertrophy and optional
running sessions to maintain
cardiovascular conditioning.
THE TEAM ROOM
ALL FOUR EBOOKS ALSO COME
WITH ACCESS TO THE ‘TEAM
ROOM’. THE TEAM ROOM
IS A SECTION OF THE STOIC
CONDITIONING WEBSITE THAT National Strength and Conditioning, Tactical Strength
and Conditioning Facilitator (NSCA, TSAC-F).
ALLOWS INDIVIDUALS THE The other team members cannot be associated with or
OPPORTUNITY TO ASK THE TEAM identified due to their active service, which if revealed
may place them in a potential security threat.
BEHIND STOIC CONDITIONING
ANY QUESTIONS THEY MAY NEXT MONTH…
HAVE IN REGARDS TO TRAINING, Next month we will be welcoming ‘Easy’ himself, where
INJURY, MEAL REQUIREMENTS/ we will get the chance to interview him regarding all
things Stoic Conditioning.
IDEAS AND A WHOLE HEAP MORE.
W W W.STOICCONDITIONING.COM 023
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AD TEMPLATE.indd 1 12/06/2015 15:50

IMAGINE BEING ABLE TO CARRY YOUR
ACCOMMODATION IN THE CARGO
POCKET OF YOUR TROUSERS. IMAGINE
NOT HAVING TO GET OUT YOUR
TRUSTY KNIFE AND START BUILDING
A SHELTER EVERY TIME YOU STOP, OR
TO SEEK SHELTER FROM A SUDDEN
DOWNPOUR. MAYBE YOU YEARN FOR
AN EASY WAY TO PROVIDE TOP-COVER
WHEN STOPPING FOR A BREAK OR A
MEAL. AS DISCUSSED IN SURVIVAL
A FEW ISSUES AGO, TARPS CAN BE
INVALUABLE BUT THEY ARE EITHER
BULKY OR EXPENSIVE. WHAT WE
ALL NEEDED WAS SOMETIME THAT
WAS NEITHER – STEP FORWARD THE
SNUGPAK STASHA!
It will be no surprise that the clues are in the
name – Stasha. Sounds like ‘basha’ and ‘stash’
had a party doesn’t it, and you wouldn’t be
wrong. Snugpak have taken a hard look at what
is needed in personal shelters and decided to do
something about it. It’s not that there were no
products available, but as we discovered when
looking at the available options, if you wanted
compact you were likely to pay dearly for it. If
the outdoors is a big part of your life you might
consider that a worthwhile investment but if
you were perhaps a more infrequent visitor,
could you justify the cost of some of those
ultra-lightweight shelters? At an RRP of only
£39.95 the Stasha might change your mind...
Snugpak say of it; “The Snugpak® Stasha is
a new and improved concept of the original
British Basha and the very popular Snugpak All
Weather Shelter. But unlike the bulkier British
Basha and All Weather Shelter the Stasha was
made with newer lighter weight materials so as
025 SNUGPAK.indd 25
W W W . S N U G P A K . C O M
STASHA
to achieve its impressive pack size. Because of
its remarkable size it can be stashed away in a
BDU cargo pants pocket, a backpack, a fanny
pack, go bag and so on. It is simply stated an
improved, simple, effective shelter that will aid
in protection from the elements.”
It has looped webbing and grommets in each
corner so it can be staked out or attached with
guy ropes, which are provided. It comes with 4
guy ropes to allow it to be configured a number
of ways and is made from 100% waterproof
polyester. It’s available only in Olive which is
hardly a hardship. Down two opposite sides are
plastic snaps which can allow it to be folded and
snapped together to make an improvised bivvi.
It can also be used as an impromptu emergency
shelter should the need arise. It comes with it’s
own stuff pack and it does genuinely fit into a
cargo pocket, making it easy to carry on all of web loops are securely fixed and haven’t shown
your adventures. any tendency to separate from the sheet under
It ticks all our boxes as far as a light, portable the influence of wind and rain, but being from
shelter is concerned. It’s light (obviously) it Snugpak we would be surprised if it didn’t do
is capable of many configurations and most exactly what it claims.
importantly it’s size means that you can have it In truth the Stasha isn’t exactly earth-shaking
on your person at all times. As suggested above technology but it is typical of the approach
it’s use is not limited to just basha building, of the company behind it – good ideas,
it’s essentially a waterproof tarp that can do well-executed and delivered at the sort of prices
everything from simply being a ground sheet on which makes you think “why wouldn’t I?”. If
which to take a break while eating your lunch you’re venturing into the wilds this should be
to a full-blown shelter to protect you from the as much a part of you basic equipment as your
worst the weather can throw at you. As such it’s maps, boots or your Jetboil. You might never
an essential part of our outdoor kit these days need to use it for more than ground cover or as
as it means we don’t necessarily have to build a temporary shelter from inclement weather
a shelter, we can simply shake it out and either but it’s reassuring to know that should things
tie or stake it out. So far we have found nothing get really nasty you have it to hand and can rely
that threatens the integrity of the ripstop nylon on it to offer protection. Even if you are not a
and it’s in as good condition as when we got committed wild camper we suggest you take a
it. Despite it’s light weight the grommets and look at this cracking little product.
FRO M
£39.99
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 SOF TIE SMOCK
MML3 SOFTIE SMOCK
THE MML3 ARRIVED TOO LATE TO BE
INCLUDED IN OUR SNUGPAK FEATURE
A COUPLE OF ISSUES AGO.
IN RETROSPECT THIS WAS PROBABLY
AN ADVANTAGE AS IT HAS ALLOWED
US A COUPLE OF MONTHS OF
‘INTERESTING’ BRITISH SPRINGTIME
TO GET TO KNOW IT BETTER, AND IT
HAS IMPRESSED MIGHTILY.
The MML3 (Military Mountain Leader 3) is a
tri-layer garment featuring Snugpak’s Paratex
Light outer and inner layers with insulation
being provided by Softie Premier insulation. It
is available in Multicam only, although there is a
non-military version, the ML3, available in blue
with orange trim.
The MML3 features an over-the-head smock
design, this makes for simplicity and ease of use
with no full-length front zip requiring baffles
and additional water resistance, apart from the
neck zip with is a water-resistant YYK item. We
will get to the various features of this garment
shortly, in essence it is designed to provide a
wind-proof, water-resistant shell with a small
amount of insulation – the MML3 is designed for
use in environments down to -5 degrees Celsius,
while the MML6 is intended to use down to
-10º. It is the inclusion of a deliberately limited
amount of insulation that makes the MML3 so
unique. It can be used as part of a layers system
in cold weather, or be used on it’s own when
the temperatures rise. We are all familiar with
simple, uninsulated shell systems, but until you
have tried this, you really won’t appreciate the
quantum leap that Snugpak have introduced.
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025 SNUGPAK.indd 26
WWW.SNUGPAK.COM - WWW.SNUGPAK
As mentioned at the start of this piece, we were
reviewing the MML3 at a time when the UK
decided that spring could wait and we endured
a month of wind and rain when we should
have had increasingly warm days and plenty of
sunshine. The MML3 was simply a god-send.
We used it constantly, either on it’s own over a
base-layer or combined with Snugpak’s Sleeka
jacket or the Softie shirt. It didn’t matter how
we configured it, whatever the weather threw
our way, it aced it! Here at Raider, we try to
keep away from unnecessary hyperbole in
reviews as it makes it harder for you to work
out what is good and what is merely so-so. You
will excuse us therefore if we just rave a bit
about this garment. To have a sort of half-way
summing up – it’s wind-proof, moderately
warm, has tons of storage space, is easy to
wear, to put on and take off, can be stowed in
a modest sized pouch, has a generous cut that
is comfortable yet functional. In short, you will
have to pry this from our cold, dead hands!
It is not, on it’s own, the ideal foul-weather
garment, but it isn’t meant to be. Think of it
as a replacement for the current British Army
smock or jacket. The pockets are placed where
they can be accessed easily, even under body
armour or load bearing kit. There is unique
storage in the neck band for a rolled up watch
cap or thin gloves. The big hand-warmer
pocket does exactly that as well as providing
somewhere to stick kit when you need your
hands free. The shock cord adjusters allow you
to seal the bottom hem, keeping the wind out
and heat in. That minimal amount of Softie
insulation makes all the difference while not
turning the MML3 into an overly warm piece
of clothing. Almost from the moment we tried
it on there was that sense of “where have you
been all my life?!”
The Venture Range includes a central map case
pocket in the chest area, for the storage of a full
size (Large) map case, such as the SILVA® Carry
Dry Map Case (265x480mm), or an iPad® mini™
within a waterproof eCase® (185x238mm). The
main pocket also incorporates two D-rings to
secure essential items, to prevent accidental
loss, as well as tethering other waterproof cases
so that they do not need to be carried in an
unsafe position around the neck.
A large Outer-Pocket on the front of the
central chest pocket, with a hook & loop
security tab and a functional D-ring. This
pocket can accommodate an A6 folded map,
or a notebook and pen/pencil, or smartphones
in a waterproof case, such as the iPhone 5S in
the waterproof eCase® (105x175mm) as well as
small digital cameras. In front of this is a smaller
outer-pocket with hook & loop security tab, ideal
for keeping your compass close to hand, or used
for securing smaller energy gels, pens, pencils
etc. when on the move.
The large outer pocket is compatible with
an issue Magpul® Dynamics 30Rd eMag and
the smaller outer pocket can accommodate a
Glock® double-stacked 9mm magazine for fast
and efficient Ranger reloads, when additional
equipment and plate carriers are not to hand.”
We generally avoid quoting so extensively
from a manufacturer, but the information is so
relevant that we would just end up writing it all
out for you anyway. While this description is
specifically for the MML series, it applies equally
to the ‘civilian’ ML series, as do all the benefits.
We are not in the habit of handing out Gold
Stars in our reviews, we try to be objective and
helpful, but you can have a whole five gold stars
here! The MML3 is a great bit of kit for anyone
who ventures outdoors – you will find yourself
asking how you managed without one.
15/06/2015 13:34
PAK.COM - WWW.SNUGPAK.COM - WWW.SNUGPAK.COM
FRO M
9
£179.9
SNUGPAK SAY THE FOLLOWING ABOUT THEIR MML RANGE...
“THE TRI-LAYER MML SOFTIE® SMOCK INCORPORATES A UNIQUE
DESIGN, FOR THE STORAGE AND USE OF ESSENTIAL EQUIPMENT,
SUCH AS MAP AND COMPASS, ORDERS BOOKS, RANGE EQUIPMENT,
WEAPON CLEANING ESSENTIALS AND IS COMPATIBLE FOR
TACTICAL RELOADS, AS WELL AS MORE MODERN DEVICES SUCH AS
SMARTPHONES AND TABLETS, WHEN COMPLETING ACTIVITIES FROM
A DIGITAL BATTLESPACE OR ISERIES NAVIGATION™ PERSPECTIVE”
025 SNUGPAK.indd 27
■ Made in the UK. Support UK manufacturing
and enjoy superior British quality.
■ Unisex Design.
■ Crye Precision Multicam®.
■ Extremely Lightweight & durable, perfect for
when weight and space need to be considered.
■ Windproof: The Paratex Micro fabric protects
you from wind chill.
■ Breathable: The Paratex Micro high
moisture-vapour transmission rate helps to
keep you dry when you’re active.
■ Comfortable: The Softie® Premier fill
insulation is available in different weights for
a range of temperatures and environments.
■ APALS® Soft Hook & Loop Patches.
■ Unit/Name Badge Soft Hook & Loop Patches.
■ Large Map Chest Pocket, with D-Rings.
■ Large & Small External Pouches.
■ External D-Ring for LED Torches, etc.
■ TS1 Lined Hand Warmer ‘Muff’ Pocket, adds
a layer of insulation to keep hands warm.
■ Thumb Loops.
■ Hem & Neck adjuster for a better fit, helping
trap warm air and aid insulation.
■ 1/4 Length Water-resistant YKK Zip, to help
trap warm air, or ventilate.
■ Soft Armour Panel (SAP) and Hard Armour
Plate Carrier (PC) Compatible.
■ Customise with effective layering for colder
weather or longer races.
■ Hood - For the entire Snugpak® Venture
Range, the hood has been removed, allowing
greater compatibility with other items of
clothing, but the storage space remains. This
allows you to roll up items such as a neck
scarf, Buff®, fleece liner gloves or skull cap
and store them close to hand.
W W W. SNUGPAK .COM 027
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 TRAVEL ESSENTIALS DON’T LEAVE HOME WITHOUT PACKIN

VITAL TRAVEL
ONE THING MANY PEOPLE DO BEFORE HEADING OFF FOR A LONG JOURNEY IS UNDERESTIMATE
THE WEAR ON THEIR CLOTHING, LUGGAGE AND OTHER ITEMS. WITH THAT IN MIND, MAKING SURE
YOU’VE GOT THE BEST YOU CAN BUY IS DEFINITELY OF BENEFIT TO YOURSELVES; ESPECIALLY IF
YOU’RE ‘SLUMMING’ IT. WE’VE COME UP WITH A SMALL CHECKLIST TO GET YOU ON YOUR WAY!

LUGGAGE CARRY-ON BAG FOOTWEAR

Luggage should always be your first port of call
when going on long journeys, and making sure you
have the correct luggage for the trip is a must.
Often I have seen people having to drag large
suitcases up numerous flights of old stairs, purely
because they haven’t thought ahead and planned.
I tend to take two different approaches when it
comes to travelling. If I plan to spend a lot of time
hotel jumping, with pre-arranged transport and
hotel porters, I will take a medium sized hard case.
These are highly durable and will protect your
luggage should you wish to bring back delicates.
Should you be backpacking or spending a lot of
time having to handle your own luggage, hiking
bags are a very good shout. Not only do these bags
give you a huge amount of room, they also allow you
to move them easily, and through terrain wheels
aren’t too fond of. Obviously these are a lot less
sturdy though so delicate items may be a bad shout.
Having a good carry-on bag does two things for
you. Firstly it allows you to carry all that vital
airplane entertainment such as iPads, books, food,
medication and a variety of other bits and bobs you
can’t live without, but it also gives you a smaller
bag to use whilst on your travels. You’re not always
going to be carrying your big old luggage case
or backpack around with you, so having a good,
smaller and lightweight, secondary bag is useful.
You can use your carry-on bag as a beach bag, a
shopping bag, a gym bag, an everyday bag… You
name it… Bags are pretty useful!
After squaring away your luggage options, you’re
going to want to take a look at your footwear
next. This is where making sure you know the
terrain of your trip is the difference between a
comfortable experience, and a real painful one. For
example, if you’re spending days on end walking up
mountainous terrain, the last thing you’re going to
want to pack is flip flops.
In all of our experience though, you can’t really
go wrong with packing a good pair of runners. Not
only are these comfortable, but they’re designed
to be on your foot for extended periods. They have
ventilation to stop your feet from sweating, usually
preventing blisters, and they are usually fairly
durable as well.

RAIDER RECOMMENDS RAIDER RECOMMENDS RAIDER RECOMMENDS

AS AN ALL-ROUND TRAVEL SOLUTION, WE
HAVE FOUND THE 5.11 RUSH 72 BACKPACK
TO OFFER THE PERFECT PACKAGE FOR ANY
TRAVELLER. WE HAVE TAKEN IT TO JUNGLES,
DENSE CITIES AND ON OCEAN EXCURSIONS.
THIS PACK JUST KEEPS ON GIVING!
AVAILABLE FROM WWW.MILITARY1ST.CO.UK
WE’RE A MASSIVE FAN OF THE GERMAN
COMPANY HERSCHEL, AND ARE CURRENTLY
USING ONE OF THEIR ‘SETTLEMENT’ BAGS
IN M81 WOODLAND. NOT ONLY IS IT VERY
COMFORTABLE, BUT IT ALSO LOOKS GOOD
AND CAN BE WORN IN A NUMBER OF
DIFFERENT ENVIRONMENTS!
IF WE HAD TO PICK A FAVOURITE PAIR OF
RUNNERS AT THE MOMENT, IT WOULD LIKELY
FALL TO THE ‘ROSHE RUN’ BY NIKE. THEY ARE
DURABLE, BREATHABLE, LIGHTWEIGHT AND
RIDICULOUSLY COMFORTABLE! THEY ALSO
DON’T LOOK OUT OF PLACE WHEREVER YOU
DECIDE TO WEAR THEM.

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CKING THEM - DON’T LEAVE HOME WITHOUT PACKING THEM
ESSENTIALS!
RAIDER RECOMMENDS
DOCUMENTS HOLDER
If you’re travelling for a long period of time, a
documents holder is a very good shout. Not only can
you store things like your passport, flight details
and booking in details, they’re also handy for
storing things like maps, itineraries, business cards
and various other bits and bobs.
When it comes to things like this, we want cheap
and affordable but still made to a good quality.
After some digging we found the perfect solution
from our friends at Web-tex. They sell a range of
document holders in a range of different sizes that
come with clear plastic sleeves already built in.
RAIDER RECOMMENDS
FROM A MERE £5-£10, THE WEB-TEX
DOCUMENT HOLDER IS A GREAT SHOUT,
AND IS PERFECT FOR BOTH HOTEL HOPPERS
AND BACKPACKERS, BEING BOTH DURABLE
AND SECURE. WE PERSONALLY SECURE
OURS WITH 3 ELASTIC BANDS FOR ADDED
PROTECTION. WWW.WEB-TEX.CO.UK
028-029 EVERYDAY.indd 29
OTHER…
There’s a long list of other things you should consider when going on a long trip. Suncream, Insect Repellent,
First Aid Kit… And these are just the really obvious ones. Regardless of where you’re going, you should try to
carry those three with you at all times. The last thing you want to do is be stuck without them! Then you’ve
got items such as maps, compasses, fire starting equipment and a whole heap of other things you may need
dependant on your trip.
For the basics, make sure you do your research and see what you’ll need. Obviously if you’re going to the
antarctic you’re not going to need suncream, but a first aid kid is always a must. We’ve seen some very well put
together ones by both Warrior Assault Systems and Viper Tactical. Viper Tactical also do a pretty handy Survival
Box that has a lot of handy things inside a well protected hard case.
As for the specifics, this is where you see how good your own preparation
game is! We can’t do this for you unfortunately, so make sure you put in a
ton of research and always pack for the worst and all those little luxuries
that you can’t live without… Just incase!
FINAL THOUGHTS
OBVIOUSLY THERE ARE GOING TO BE SOME ITEMS THAT
YOU CAN’T LIVE WITHOUT, SUCH AS PERSONAL MEDICATION AND SPECIFIC CARE
PRODUCTS THAT YOU USE ON A DAILY BASIS. THESE SHOULD BE A PRIORITY AND
PACKED AWAY SAFELY AND SECURELY. THINGS LIKE MULTITOOLS, SCISSORS AND
CORKSCREWS ETC MAY BE ‘MUST HAVE’ ITEMS, BUT THINK ABOUT WHERE YOU
ARE GOING AND THE ISSUES THEY MAY CAUSE AT AIRPORT SECURITY AND BORDER
CHECKPOINTS. THINK AHEAD AND BE SENSIBLE WHEN PACKING YOUR ‘ESSENTIALS’.
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 LATEST ISSUE OUT NOW!

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12/06/2015 13:35
 ALL
BUSHCRAFT

N EW
!
KNIVES ON TEST
C ALL THAT A K NIFE?
KNIVES ARE SOMETHING WE WRITE ABOUT QUITE A LOT IN RAIDER. THEY ARE REGULARLY MENTIONED IN SURVIVAL
AND THEY POP UP IN DEPLOYMENT AS WELL. THIS MONTH IN OUR REGULAR HEAD-TO-HEAD FEATURE WE ARE GOING
TO TAKE A GOOD LOOK AT BUSHCRAFT KNIVES, KNIVES SPECIFICALLY DESIGNED OR INTENDED FOR USE WHILE WILD
CAMPING OR JUST OUT THERE COMMUNING WITH NATURE. FIRSTLY HOWEVER, LET’S DEFINE JUST WHAT WE MEAN.

W W W.RAIDER-MAG.COM 035
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 BUSHCRAFT KNIVES OUR PICK OF THE PACK - WE TRY BEFORE YO

BUSHCRAFT KNIVES
HEAD TO HEAD!
WHAT IS A BUSHCRAFT KNIFE?
Strictly speaking, a bushcraft knife is just a knife. There, that’s the
statement of the obvious made and out of the way! Knives are one of
our most basic tools allowing us to cut, shape and scrape all manner
of materials. Bushcraft knives are optimised for the sort of work that
you can expect to do when in the wilds. They aren’t “survival knives”
(whatever that is exactly) they are a tool you deliberately take with you
to make your life easier and safer.
We had an interesting conversation with Richard at Heinnie Hayes
who kindly provided a couple of the knives on test. Richard is a
keen wild camper and very experienced in matters bushcraft. Our
conversation centred around what was and wasn’t an acceptable
testing regime. If, like us, you do a lot of reading on all manner of
subjects, you will come across some who feel that their bushcraft
knives should be able to perform all tasks from cutting meat and
skinning game up to carving a cave dwelling in granite or providing
medevac services. Richard pointed out that a number of heavier
cutting tasks, splitting wood, chopping down trees or branches
were correctly the preserve of the axe or hatchet – that knives were
primarily cutting tools and should be judged as such. We agree with
him and have formulated our test criteria accordingly. You therefore
won’t find us trying to construct a four bedroomed tree dwelling using
nothing but a knife, or finding out if they are strong enough to lever a
one ton boulder out of a ravine. Those are tasks for other tools.
In a survival situation, you might ask more of your knife than it was
intended for but in general use such behaviour will likely result in
breakage or damage that could and should have been avoided.
Returning to our original question and having discussed what a
bushcraft knife isn’t, we can state in general terms that a bushcraft
knife will have a fixed blade, commonly of about three to four inches
in length that is designed to perform a variety of cutting tasks. Since
they are intended for reasonably hard use, blades tend to be thicker,
around 3mm wide as opposed to the much thinner blades found in
kitchen knives or pocket knives. This makes them stiffer and allows
them to cope with a wider variety of materials, the extra steel helping
to strengthen he all-important cutting edge.
Later in this piece we will consider the edge, it’s style, sharpening and
angles. Trust us when we say that this alone is a subject to which is
dedicated an astonishing amount of writing.
Without exception none of the knives on test have serrated or
partially serrated edges. Serrated blades are ideal for fast saw-motion
cutting but they are much harder to keep sharp and are not well suited
to many tasks. We have included a couple of wild-cards in this test,
largely to provide a useful contrast to the otherwise uniform nature of
these knives. We will be testing the Gerber Gator, a lock-back folder
with a three inch blade and an original Glock military issue field knife.
Accepted wisdom is that folding knives are not suitable for bushcraft
uses as they are inherently less rigid and less strong as a result of the
necessary hinge. The Glock was included because we (a) had it to hand,
(b) it is typical multi-purpose knife issued widely to troops and (c) it
was very cheap when bought – around £10.00 at a military show. It is
by far the longest blade on test at around six inches and therefore the
least convenient when worn on a belt.

THE 5 CONTENDERS
1 JAGUAR BUSHCRAFT KNIFE
£28.99 FROM HIGHLANDER-OUTDOOR
2 THE MORA BUSHCRAFT (BLACK)
£35.95 FROM HIENNIE HAYES, UK
3 REAL STEAL BUSHCRAFT
£53.95 FROM HIENNIE HAYES, UK
(splitting logs using the knife like a wedge
struck by another log) but this is outside what
can be considered reasonable or normal use.
We will therefore evaluate each knife
against the following values:
✓ MATERIALS
✓ CONSTRUCTION
SCANDI GRIND
This is a grind where the blade has been
ground directly to an edge with no additional
bevel, imagine a simple, shallow wedge. It
is claimed to be superior for wood carving
tasks and some feel it makes resharpening

4 GERBER GATOR CLIP POINT ✓ DESIGN, INCLUDING EDGE GRIND simpler.

£29.48 WWW.GERBERGEAR.CO.UK
GLOCK FIELD KNIFE
5 £32.95 FROM HIENNIE HAYES, UK
All of the knives on test are similarly priced,
the Real Steel is the most expensive and we
will give you all the details with each knife,
none however exceed £60 GBP.
TESTING CRITERIA
As discussed above, the tests have to be
realistic. We cannot condemn a knife simply
because it cannot do something it was never
intended for. We have therefore only asked of
the knives what we know they can do. They are
probably capable of more, such as batoning
✓ FINISH
✓ ACCESSORIES (SUPPLIED SHEATHS ETC.)
IN USE
This includes cutting tasks – meat and
vegetation, carving green wood into a tent
peg and overall handling.
VALUE FOR MONEY
Before we get stuck in, a few words about
edge grind. Believe us when we say that we
could fill an entire magazine with examples
of, and discussion about, what is the best
edge grind. What follows therefore is a brief
generational.
COMPOUND BEVELLED EDGE
Similar to the Scandi grind, but there is
an additional bevel ground onto the blade
at the cutting edge. Imagine a wedge,
with a further angle extending only a few
millimetres from the cutting edge. It is
claimed by proponents that this style puts
more metal behind the cutting edge, making
the edge less susceptible to damage and is
easier to maintain.
There are many more types of blade grinds,
but all the knives on test feature one or
other of the above. We will see if there is
a noticeable difference between the edges
during testing.

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RE YOU BUY - OUR PICK OF THE PACK - WE TRY BEFORE YOU BUY

JAGUAR
JAGUAR
BUSHCRAFT KNIFE
SUPPLIED BY: WWW.HIGHLANDER-OUTDOOR.CO.UK

THE JAGUAR IS MADE FROM A SINGLE PIECE OF

STAINLESS STEEL WITH A FULL LENGTH TANG (WHERE
THE BLADE MATERIAL EXTENDS THE FULL LENGTH OF
THE GRIP). THE 9.5CM BLADE IS A CLASSIC
DROP POINT WITH A COMPOUND BEVEL EDGE.
The grip is made from two rosewood scales, held onto
the tang with brass rivets. There is a brass-lined
lanyard hole at the end of the grip which easily
accommodates paracord or leather thong.
The fit of the scales is acceptable although a very
slight step can be felt when you rub your thumb
from side to side. The scales are slightly carved,
swelling towards the middle and thinning out
towards the blade and the end of the knife.
There is a small blade guard on the lower edge
which catches your index finger reasonable well.
There are no serrations on the back of the blade to
facilitate thumb grip.
The Jaguar is a nice, traditional design and the
contrast between the rosewood and the steel is
pleasing to the eye – it is in many respects a “classic”
sheath knife. As supplied the edge is sharp, albeit
not razor sharp, but that’s not a consideration here.
It comes nicely packaged and includes a leather belt
sheath and a fire steel. The sheath not only holds the
knife securely but has a loop to also accommodate the
fire steel. The sheath is well stitched with a couple of
open brass rivets top and bottom which could also be
used as lanyard attachments.

IN USE THE JAGUAR HAD NO PROBLEMS WITH THE VARIOUS CUTTING

TESTS, CUTTING MEAT OR VEGETABLE MATTER CAUSED IT NO ISSUES. CARVING GREEN
WOOD INTO A TENT PEG AGAIN WAS ACCOMPLISHED WITHOUT ANY DIFFICULTY. GRIP WAS
POSITIVE GIVEN THE CONSTRUCTION AND MATERIALS ALTHOUGH WE SUSPECT THINGS
COULD GET A LITTLE LESS POSITIVE IN THE WET AND COLD. WE CANNOT CRITICISE THE
JAGUAR FOR THIS AS IT’S TRUE OF MANY TOOLS, BUT IT’S WORTH BEING AWARE OF AS
DIFFERENT DESIGN OR MATERIALS MIGHT SUIT YOUR INTENDED USE A LITTLE BETTER.

VALUE FOR MONEY

Always a subjective judgement you should bear in mind that if you shop around you may
well find this knife for £10.00 below it’s RRP. That’s not a lot of money for a well-made,
solid, traditional knife. The fire steel is a useful addition and welcome but we have to
discount it as it is not central to our test. There is no doubt however that it’s inclusion will
save you a little money and it does work well. The handle feels a little smaller than the
other knives on test – that’s going to suit some and irritate others. The traditional rosewood
scales feel nice but a little smooth.
We never dropped the knife or lost control but
modern synthetic materials do tend to stick to
the hand and offer a better grip.
We liked the Jaguar very much. It does
what’s required of it, is a very nice
looking package and has a slight
whiff of nostalgia about it.

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 BUSHCRAFT KNIVES OUR PICK OF THE PACK - WE TRY BEFORE YO

MORA
MORA
BUSHCRAFT BLACK
SUPPLIED BY: WWW.HIENNIE.COM

THE MORA COULDN’T BE FURTHER REMOVED FROM THE JAGUAR

IF IT TRIED. WITH A BLADE MADE FROM HIGH CARBON STEEL
AND SPORTING A CLASSIC SCANDI EDGE GRIND, THE MORA
OFFERS A VERY MODERN APPROACH TO THE SHEATH KNIFE.
THE GRIP IS RUBBER AND CONTOURED, AND APART FROM THE
GLOCK FIELD KNIFE, IS THE LONGEST ON TEST FITTING OUR
HAND EXCEPTIONALLY WELL.
The steel is protected by a black coating designed to resist rust, being high
carbon steel this is not naturally rust resistant and requires a little extra care
therefore. The edge is subjectively the sharpest out of the box, an impression
borne out by our testing. Blade is a drop point, although it verges on a clip
point. We believe that the knife has a full tang but we have been unable to verify
this, although we would be surprised if it was anything else.

THE KNIFE COMES WITH A SIMPLE BUT EFFECTIVE PLASTIC

SHEATH THAT HOLDS THE KNIFE VERY SECURELY. THE ATTACHED
BELT LOOP APPEARS TO ALLOW THE KNIFE TO BE CARRIED HIGH
OR LOW, HOWEVER IT IS ONLY TRULY STABLE IN THE LOW, OR
HANGING POSITION. THE LOOP CAN BE UNCLIPPED FROM
THE THE SHEATH SHOULD THAT BE REQUIRED. IT’S A SIMPLE,
EFFECTIVE SET UP, WHICH IS TRUE OF THE KNIFE OVERALL.
PERHAPS TYPICALLY OF MANY SCANDINAVIAN KNIVES THE
MORA IS SIMPLE, ALMOST PLAIN, BUT EXUDES QUALITY
WHERE IT’S REQUIRED – BLADE, EDGE AND ERGONOMICS.
In use: The Mora made short work of everything we threw at it. Meat and
vegetation posed no challenge whatsoever with very clean cuts, the tent
peg test was hardly a test at all – that zero Scandi grind really does lend
itself to carving well! We never felt we were going to lose control of this
knife thanks to that well shaped rubber handle an although the weather
didn’t intervene we deliberately soaked the knife to see if it made any real
difference to grip and control – it didn’t.
You wouldn’t buy this if you were after a striking-looking knife, but you
would be foolish not to consider it if you were looking for a working tool that
will deliver for years to come. It’s actually difficult to wax lyrical about this
knife, it’s so plain, so functional. This was no doubt Mora’s intention and they
succeeded. Beauty is definitely more than skin deep.

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RE YOU BUY - OUR PICK OF THE PACK - WE TRY BEFORE YOU BUY

GLOCK
GLOCK
FIELD KNIFE
SUPPLIED BY: WWW.HIENNIE.COM

WE HAVE INCLUDED THIS BECAUSE WE HAD IT TO HAND – BOUGHT NEW IT

WOULD COST ABOUT THE SAME AS THE MORA BUSHCRAFT KNIFE, WHICH
IS ARGUABLY A BETTER KNIFE FOR THAT PURPOSE, HOWEVER THE GLOCK
CAN BE FOUND FOR VERY LITTLE MONEY SECOND HAND AND IF ACQUIRING A
KNIFE ON A BUDGET MATTERS TO YOU, IT MIGHT BE WORTH CONSIDERATION.
Glock is best known for their handguns these days, but they began as a company making cutlery
for the military, including field knives. The Glock has the longest blade on test at nearly 6 and
a half inches. This is typical of field knives which are, contrary to popular belief, not fighting
knives, but intended to perform all manner of cutting tasks – rather similar to bushcraft
actually. In extremis they could be used in an offensive/defensive manner, but so could any
other knife. The only downside we can see is that you might find it slightly harder to explain
carrying something this size to a police officer!
The Glock is a simple beast, high carbon steel blade with a complex bevel grind and formed in
a near-clip point. When new it has a black protective coating, our example has long since lost
this through wear. It is slightly thicker than all the other knives on test which should contribute
to strength however given that there is considerably more blade to support, it may be that this
is not a significant advantage. We weren’t about to test any of our knives to destruction so
we cannot give you a definitive answer but nearly every review of this knife comments on it’s
strength when used as a tool to pry objects apart. It certainly makes the knife heavier,
however it is very well balanced, with a steel hilt to protect your hand from the blade. The
hilt also has a bottle opener formed in it, hardly vital, but handy! The grip is polymer, less
tactile than the rubber of the Mora, but well-sized and giving a very good hold on the knife.

THE SIMPLE SHEATH HOLDS THE KNIFE FIRMLY USING A MOULDED CATCH TO
KEEP THE KNIFE IN PLACE. THERE IS A BUILT-IN BELT LOOP AND A LANYARD/
LEG TIE LOOP AT THE POINT END OF THE SHEATH. BLADE MATERIAL IS HRC55
SPRING STEEL WHICH PROBABLY EXPLAINS THE RESILIENCE TO DAMAGE. IT’S
NOT STAINLESS AND WILL RUST QUITE NOTICEABLY IF NOT CARED FOR.
In use the Glock made short world of the basic cutting tasks and although it helped us carve
a perfectly functional tent peg, it’s greater length made it a little more unwieldy. We think
you would really notice this if you were trying to do finer carving work although in fairness
that sort of thing is not what this knife was intended for. Being second hand the cutting edge
was our responsibility, the makers original edge having long since been worn. You probably
wouldn’t want to shave with this (buy a razor!) but the steel takes a good working edge and is
easy to sharpen.
In our opinion you would choose this if the idea of it being both a Glock and a military knife
appealed to you. As stated ours was cheap, new these cost about the same as the Mora and
the Jaguar, either of which are more convenient to carry and use. It is imposing and certainly
seems to be as tough as nails. This one has never let us down, but in the face of such good
competition probably wouldn’t be our first choice to pack into the wilderness.

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 BUSHCRAFT KNIVES OUR PICK OF THE PACK - WE TRY BEFORE YO

REAL STEEL
REAL STEEL
BUSHCRAFT KNIFE
SUPPLIED BY: WWW.HIENNIE.COM

THE REAL STEEL BUSHCRAFT IS THE MOST EXPENSIVE KNIFE IN OUR

TEST AND IT FEELS IT. EXCEPTIONALLY SOLID AND WITH A VERY GOOD
WEIGHT TO IT, THIS KNIFE DECLARES ITSELF TO BE SERIOUS CUTLERY
ALMOST BEFORE YOU OPEN THE BOX. MADE FROM D2 TOOL STEEL
WITH G10 SCALES IN BLACK WITH A CONTRASTING RED G10 INSERT.
G10 IN THIS CASE IS NOT THE STEEL BUT A FORM OF MICARTA MADE
USING PHENOLIC RESIN TO PRODUCE A VERY HARD-WEARING,
COMPOSITE MATERIAL.
The blade itself, with a full length tang is easily the thickest on test, equalled only
by the Glock field knife and gives the user the impression that levering a small
car upright wouldn’t be beyond it’s abilities. There is a half-guard just above the
blade and a serrated section to the back of the blade giving a very positive grip
in use. The grind in another zero Scandi, very cleanly executed resulting is an
excellent edge.

THE SCALES ARE RIVETED IN PLACE AND THERE IS A WELCOME

LANYARD LOOP AT THE END OF THE HANDLE. FIT AND FINISH ARE
UTTERLY BEYOND REPROACH WITH NO ROUGH EDGES ANYWHERE.
THE KNIFE COMES IN A SIMPLE KYDEX SHEATH THAT HOLDS IT VERY
SECURELY AND HAS SEVERAL TIE POINTS, EACH REINFORCED WITH
A STEEL RIVET. IN THE BOX THERE IS ALSO A KYDEX BELT ADAPTER
ALONG WITH ALL SCREWS AND FITTINGS NECESSARY. LIKE THE
JAGUAR, THIS IS QUITE TRADITIONAL IN DESIGN EVEN IF THE
MATERIALS ARE BANG UP TO DATE.
It will come as no surprise to hear that given the materials and construction
this knife sailed though our tests. Cuts were clean and near-effortless, carving
was achieved with consummate ease. Grip was at all times positive, indeed the
only criticism we can make, and it is hardly major, is that when wet the lack of
texture on the G10 scales did make the knife feel slightly less secure. We have
to stress that the operative word here is ‘sightly’ as at no point did the Real
Steel threaten to go anywhere we didn’t want it to.
This is an exceptional knife for the money. Although more expensive than
any of the others you will know from the moment you open the box where that
money went. It’s solid, very well made and gives the impression that not only
will it do what is required of it, but that with care it will keep doing it for decades.

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RE YOU BUY - OUR PICK OF THE PACK - WE TRY BEFORE YOU BUY

GERBER
GERBER
GATOR KNIFE
SUPPLIED BY: WWW.GERBERGEAR.CO.UK

WISDOM SAYS THAT BUSHCRAFT KNIVES SHOULD BE FIXED BLADES, AND

THERE IS GOOD REASON FOR THAT. IF YOU WANT A SOLID KNIFE THAT WON’T
QUAIL IN THE FACE OF HARD USE THEN THE SECURITY OFFERED BY A SINGLE
PIECE OF STEEL IS HARD TO BEAT. LIFE HOWEVER ISN’T ALWAYS WHAT
WISDOM SAYS IT SHOULD BE, AND WE DECIDED TO INCLUDE THE GATOR AS AN
EXAMPLE OF WHAT FOLDING KNIVES ARE CAPABLE OF, AND WHAT THEY’RE NOT.
Gerber introduced the Gator nearly a decade and a half ago, it takes its name from the glass-fibre
filled, textured rubber grip which lends this knife its positive handling. As folders go, it’s
reasonably big being just under nine inches when opened, 3.75 inches of that being blade. It’s
a lock back folder with a large ‘button’ on the back of the grip to release the blade. The grip is
moulded with a very distinct finger groove just behind the blade which combined with the grip
materials gives an exceptionally secure hold on the knife.

THE CLIP POINT BLADE ITSELF IS MADE FROM 154CM STAINLESS STEEL WITH
A NON-REFLECTIVE FINISH, TYPICAL OF GERBER. EDGE GRIND IS COMPOUND
AND LIKE EVERY GERBER WE HAVE EVER USED IT IS EASY TO GET A RAZOR SHARP
CUTTING EDGE ON THIS KNIFE. BLADE LOCK UP IS POSITIVE AND ON CLOSING
THERE IS A NOTICEABLE DÉTENTE HALF WAY TO TRY AND ENSURE THAT YOU
DON’T REMOVE YOUR FINGERS THROUGH CARELESSNESS. IT’S SUPPLIED
WITH A BRANDED NYLON SHEATH WITH BELT LOOP. BLADE THICKNESS IS
SIMILAR TO THE JAGUAR AT 3.2MM.
So far so good. What is immediately apparent is the fact that no matter how well made a folder
is it will almost always feel less solid than a fixed blade knife, and the Gator is no exception.
There is nothing wrong with the lock, the action can be tightened using a Torx key the design has
to have some minor movement in it otherwise it just won’t work as intended.

In use, the fact that this was a folder was of no consequence. The Gator slices it’s way
merrily through pretty much anything and carves with ease, thanks to that exceptional
edge and great control afforded by the grip. There is nothing to choose between this knife
and all the other on the basis of performance. The ‘but’ if of course the fact that the blade
will never feel as secure or as solid as any of the others on test. We are well aware that
we are comparing apples and oranges here and none of this is a criticism of Gerber’s
standards or production.
We have used Gerber knives for years and love them however in the bushcraft
category we cannot help feeling that we would be that little bit happier with
a fixed design. Although you shouldn’t be using any of the knives tested for
levering or prying, we know that occasionally it happens and having a hinge the
Gator just doesn’t feel like it could cope as well as the others.

W
WWWW
W.. RR AA II DD EE RR -- M
M AAGG ..CCOO M
M 039
041

033-039 KNIVES H2H.indd 39 15/06/2015 13:27

 BUSHCRAFT KNIVES OUR PICK OF THE PACK
OUR CONCLUSION
The simple truth with this test is that all of
the knives would perform well in a wilderness
environment when asked to cut or carve, so in
that respect there is little to choose between
them. Some like the Gerber Gator would pass
muster but due to their design are probably
not ideal.
Of the rest, the Real Steel is just gorgeous,
but that beauty comes at a price, some £20
more than it’s competitors. It is a very fine
knife that fully justifies it’s cost which is
hardly exorbitant. If you want to best in a
knife that you can have for under £60 this is
the one for you.
Of the remaining three, the Glock is a
competent all-rounder but it’s larger and
slightly more cumbersome as a result. We
have used ours for years and it’s solid, well
made and holds a good working edge. As we
suggested above whether you buy this knife
may well be influenced by considerations
beyond the simply practical, but it wouldn’t be
top of our list as a bushcraft tool.
The Jaguar from Highlander Outdoors is
a lovely knife to look at and to handle. A
bit of shopping around should also enable
you to buy one for about £10 less than any
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033-039 KNIVES H2H.indd 40
of the other knives on test and if money is
tight you could do worse. Simple, solid and
reliable, the fire-steel is an added bonus and
We doubt that if you should take our advice
that you’ll be disappointed.
although it really doesn’t matter in the wild,
the presentation of the knife is very nice too,
which always gives you a warm fuzzy feeling.
Which brings us to the Mora Bushcraft.
When we were researching this article we
saw all sorts of opinions expressed one of
which struck us forcefully. On a forum a
writer suggested that rather than spending
£30 on a new knife the prospective purchaser
should save up and spend twice that on a good
second-hand knife. In our opinion that was
very poor advice when the Mora can be yours
for £35.00 from Hiennie Hayes. We will be
utterly honest, it’s absolutely not the prettiest
knife on test, it’s sheath is absolutely simple
and functional there is a complete lack of
“Zing!” about this knife but from the moment Raider is grateful to:
we saw it and handled it we suspected that Hiennie Haynes (www.heinnie.com)
of all the knives on test this would be the 033-0300-0400 for the Mora and Real Steel
one that would deliver. Our initial hunch knives. They also sell the Glock field knife as
was proved right, in terms of edge, handling, featured in this article, as well as the Gator
construction and that indefinable sense of series from Gerber.
fitness for purpose the Mora is a clear winner.
We would love to own both this and the Real Highlander Outdoors (www.
Steel and would have no problems spending highlander-outdoor.co.uk +44 (0)1506 438
our own money on either but if we had to 438) for the Jaguar Bushcraft knife. See their
choose just one, the Mora is our number one. website for dealers in your area.
AFTER SOMETHING A BIT MORE TACTICAL?
All men should be able to say “Call that a knife? THIS is a knife…” and we couldn’t run a
knife article without quickly mentioning a firm favourite, multi-purpose, fixed blade here at
Raider; The Gerber LMFII Survival Knife. Although labeled a ‘survival knife’ this thick, full
tang, industrial 10 inch blade monster easily holds it own under the bushcraft umbrella. The
rubberised handle gives an excellent positive grip and the pommel at the base of the grip is
angled into a point to use as a glass or ice breaker but it is separated from the blade itself
to minimize the risk of electrocution should you slash through a wire. It’s massive, imposing
and even comes with a drop-leg sheath with an integrated sharpener, there are even special
holes to lash the knife to a stick to fashion a spear should you go fully native. Part knife,
part chisel, there’s no manlier way to whittle some sticks round a camp fire.
15/06/2015 13:27
 DEPLOYMENT ESSENTIALS DON’T LEAVE HOME WITHOUT ‘EM
DELPOY! DEPLOY!
THIS MONTH WE HAVE THE USUAL ROUND UP OF KIT THAT YOU SHOULDN’T LEAVE HOME WITHOUT,
WHETHER YOUR ONLY VENTURING AS FAR AS THE LOCAL SHOPS, OR TO THE DEPTHS OF THE WORLD’S
WILDEST REGIONS. IT’S NO SURPRISE THERE’S A KNIFE IN HERE, THEY ARE TOO USEFUL AND THIS ONE IS
AWESOME VALUE FOR MONEY. YOU’LL ALSO FIND AN ITEM THAT HAS BECOME SO UBIQUITOUS THAT WE
ARE IN DANGER OF FORGETTING JUST HOW USEFUL THEY ARE, THE SOFT-SHELL JACKET. THERE IS ALSO A
BODY WARMER THAT DOUBLES AS A WARDROBE COME RUCKSACK AND SOMETHING FROM NIKWAX.
STUFFA
JACKET
£85 might seem a bit steep for a body warmer but
wait, appearances can be very deceptive... this might
just be the jacket you have been searching for all
those years.
Designed specifically for travellers, outdoor
adventurers, campers and festival goers the Stuffa
One gilet/body warmer is a very clever bit of kit,
created to allow you to keep your ‘stuff’ with you
wherever you go and be able to simply ‘fit more in’.
The Stuffa One has 12 pockets inside the jacket,
each of them able to carry various necessary
personal items and even clothing when travelling.
The pockets also offer the perfect way of keeping
valuables safe and hidden from sight.
The Stuffa One is lightweight, water resistant,
insulated with synthetic down, has a fleece lined
collar for comfort, an elasticated hem for added
warmth and two front zipped hand pockets. The
design and build of the Stuffa One ensures that it
always looks good just like a regular jacket, whether
the pockets are full or empty.
The men’s jacket comes in black in sizes small to
XXL, while the women’s jacket comes in red in sizes
small to large.
042 W W W.RAIDER-MAG.COM
042-043 DEPLOY.indd 42
NIKWAX
‘SOFT-SHELL PROOF’ WASH-IN
Product description ans specifications: It’s all very well to get excited about the joys
■ 12 internal pockets concealed within the lining. of soft-shells but like any piece of kit, you do
■ 2 secure external zip pockets. occasionally need to look after them. Most
■ 100% Nylon ripstop with PU milky coating. particularly it is vital to ensure their water
■ 125g Microfleece lined collar for added comfort. repellency – step forward Nikwax!
■ Polyester taffeta. Nikwax are very well known for their extensive
■ 2-way stretch mesh. range of waterproofing products, available for
■ 100% Poly-fill, down touch effect fill in body. pretty much every type of material. Soft-Shell
■ 2 x 2 100% cotton ribbed hem. Wash-In is specifically designed to rejuvenate your
soft-shell after months of hard use. Most soft
We wouldn’t always shells are waterproof and it’s important that they
recommend carrying remain so as it’s fundamental to their performance.
too much on your The truth is that breathable soft-shell garments
person as opposed to are most likely to get sweaty and wet inside when
using a rucksack or used in damp or wet conditions. If the outer fabric
similar, but there are absorbs water, the garment can lose up to 70%
times when this kind of its breathability. Therefore, the Durable Water
of additional storage Repellency (DWR) on the outer fabric of your soft-
is invaluable. We’ll shell jacket must be maintained to ensure comfort.
try and get hold of a It will eventually wear off and need to be renewed.
Stuffa for review in a It is possible to use a spray-on product (yes
future issue and let Nikwax do one of those as well) but a proper
you know how this idea immersion gets to all those hard-to-reach places.
works out in practice. The washing machine application ensures that the
treatment goes right through the garment, treating
seams, tapes and cords, as well as the fabric. Also,
as the need for tumble drying is removed, this
saves energy and protects more vulnerable, older,
FROM
garments from heat. Having been specifically
£ 85 designed and optimised for soft-shell garments;
it leaves a flexible water repellent treatment on
individual fibres allowing moisture vapour to pass
through, maintaining breathability.
FROM
Your soft-shell garment
might be soaking up water
£8
just because it is dirty, so
first stop is to clean it. If
it is fairly new, or recently
re-waterproofed, the DWR
will be revitalised just from
cleaning alone. However you
will reach a point where this is
no longer enough on it’s own,
and you need more specialised
help. Fortunately if you have
access to a washing machine
this is easy – just chuck your
soft-shells into the machine,
add the Nikwax as if it were
detergent and run a 30 degree
cycle. Job quite literally done.
15/06/2015 13:28
‘EM - DON’T LEAVE HOME WITHOUT ‘EM
raider
recommend
GM TACTICAL ✪ ✪ ✪ ✪ ✪s!
CUSTOM KYDEX SOLUTIONS
Kydex holsters have gone through a huge boom period recently. The material previously used for the
production of knife sheathes has been found to be ideal for small scale, one-off custom production of
holsters specifically for handgun and tactical light combos but thanks to it’s contour-hugging design,
simple, full retention holsters can be made with an extremely low profile and a massive amount of
mounting options. GM Tactical’s primary product range and one that is produced for “stock” includes
black and coyote tan holsters for right-hand, outside waistband use. The guns catered for are real
steel proportion Glock 17 and S&W M&P9 models and via Tactical Kit’s retailing, they have already
been shipped throughout Europe and as far as South Africa.

CUSTOM GLOCK17 - COYOTE PANCKAE SYTLE [RH] - £54.99 FROM

The E-Loop is a universal slide-through belt loop and is one of the most versatile attachments available. £54
Incredibly sturdy, they are pre-drilled with two mounting holes each (1 inch on center). The OWB Pancake
design of the holster provides the highest possible level of concealment with any style of clothing.

HIGHLANDER
‘ODIN’ SOFT SHELL JACKET
It’s very easy to forget that there was actually a
time before soft shells!! They have become so
universal that it’s easy to take them for granted.
Regrettably that’s the case here at Raider where we
are regularly testing, reviewing and wearing them.
Having had a bit of a break due to the inclement
spring we have had, it was refreshing to come
back to a simple, basic soft shell as the weather
improved, in this case the ‘Odin’ soft shell from
Highlander Outdoors.
The Odin is a straightforward jacket – two outer
pockets with zipped fastening, one chest pocket
also with zipper and a full-length waterproof
zip down the front. Ours came in black and was
conspicuously lacking in Velcro on the sleeves for
patches etc. There are two pit zips for ventilation.
About as simple as you can get frankly. The Odin is
a good length, comfortably covering your kidneys
and the material is heavyweight without being
heavy, it’s a great throw-it-on-and-go. Having used
a variety of other brands with varying degrees
of technical complexity, it was an eye-
opener to be reminded of the value of
good, solid basics.
The main zip was a little stiff for a
couple of days but eased off nicely.
The pockets are deep enough for
phones, fags and dog leads. The
chest pocket will comfortably
accommodate a 5 1/2” phone and
keep it safe. The Odin is wind-
proof, waterproof and those pit
zips do the job perfectly allowing
a bit of adjustment of ventilation.
Unlike some makers, Highlander
have fitted a ventilated mesh
in the ventilation slots, so even
when fully opened, your jacket
isn’t gaping wide open like some
kind of hybrid tabard. Simple
thing, done well, that makes a
real difference.
Fit was excellent, it was one of the most comfortable
soft shells we have used for a while and as a result it is
undoubtedly going to see a lot of use. We just cannot
be bothered fighting with clothing – it should work well
and be comfortable – if not what’s the point. The Odin
does this very well.
Highlander place an RRP of £49.99 on the Odin,
which is a very reasonable price, however we note that
a bit of shopping around could save you up to £10.00
on that price. This really is one of those “don’t leave
home without it” items and highly recommended. It’s
available in black, olive, tan, HTMC (multicam-like) and
Tree Deep, a photo-realistic design ideal for hunters.
FROM
£49
HIGHLANDER
MERLIN KARABINER KNIFE
karabiner knives aren’t new, nor are framelocks, but
they seldom come at such a pocket friendly price.
Made from G10 steel, the Merlin will happily hide
in your pocket or clip onto any bit of kit and be
ready to deal with whatever you throw at it. G10
steel is commonly used in knife making, not because
it’s the best there is, but because it does everything
pretty well – corrosion resistance, strength, edge-
retention, it’s a bit of a jack of all trades. As such
it’s the perfect choice for an everyday knife like
this. Finished in a smooth black coating, the Merlin
has a blade length of just over 2 inches. Thanks to
the design, all of this short edge is usable, while
the design does it’s best to ensure that you won’t
inadvertently cut yourself while using it.
Framelocks are disarmingly simple knives, the
Merlin has two major components, the blade
and the frame. Everything else is there to hold
it together with all the screws having Torx heads
should they need tightening. There is a black
anodised guard to cover the edge while the blade
is folder and although we have seen framelocks
without this feature which were perfectly safe, it’s a
nice touch nonetheless.
The Merlin opens and closes positively with a
very solid lock up between frame and blade when
in use. Despite it’s diminutive size it sits well in
the hand and while we won’t pretend that you’ll be
hacking down trees to make a shelter with it, we are
confident from our use that it will deal with most
day to day tasks with aplomb.
The edge is a single-sided chisel affair. This is
common in framelocks as it makes it harder to cut
yourself with the blade folded, not an issue here
thanks to the guard. The bigger advantage, as far
as we are concerned, is that it makes the knife easy
to sharpen on a stone as there is only one angle to
grind, and in common with this style of edge-grind,
the Merlin is sharp.
It comes supplied in a blister pack with a nylon
sheath should you wish to further protect it (or your
pocket) and is available from a wide range of outlets
(Highlander do not sell directly, but will advise you
of stockists on their website (www.highlander-
outdoor.com). The RRP is £9.99 which is frankly
a steal, but the market being what it is, shopping
around may get you an even better deal.

FROM
£9

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 C A V I N G U N D E R O U R S P O T L I G H T -

Ad r e n a li n e
C A V I N G
their forums where all things subterranean are
discussed. There are suitable cave sites the length
and breadth of Britain so you shouldn’t have to
travel too far to find something of interest.
The BCA website also has a useful basic guide to
the sort of equipment you’ll need to cave safely
however if you venture onto the internet and do
a bit of searching expect to be overwhelmed by
the amount of gear you’ll find. Caving is a funny
pastime, not necessarily ‘funny ha ha’ more
A COUPLE OF ISSUES AGO WE OBSERVED THAT CHILDREN WILL TRY AND CLIMB ‘really?’. It combines a number of disciplines
ANYTHING IN THEIR PATH FROM AN EARLY AGE. THE SAME IS TRUE OF THIS depending on the nature of the area you are

MONTH’S SUBJECT, CAVES. CHILDREN WILL WRIGGLE INTO PRETTY MUCH ANY exploring. We will list the basics below but don’t be
surprised to see items such as flexible ladders or an
INTERESTING CAVE WITHOUT A THOUGHT FOR THEIR OWN SAFETY. THAT CAUTION almost complete list of climbing equipment when
IS SOMETHING THAT MOST OF US ACQUIRE WITH AGE, BUT NOT EVERYONE you visit some of the specialist caving suppliers
such as Caving Gear (www.caving-gear.co.uk) or
AS CAVING IS A HUGELY POPULAR, GLOBAL PASTIME. IT’S NOT DIFFICULT TO IngleSport (www.inglesport.com). The terrain
UNDERSTAND WHY, UNLESS YOU ARE PRONE TO CLAUSTROPHOBIA, IT’S THE SAME beneath the surface of the planet is just as varied
and challenging as it is above, and the range of
BASIC URGE TO EXPLORE THAT MIGHT TAKE YOU DIVING BENEATH THE WAVES OR equipment required to safely deal with it is long.
CRAWLING UP MOUNTAINS JUST TO SEE WHAT’S THERE. Obviously you won’t need every bit of gear for
every caving expedition, but if you get into caving
seriously we suspect you garage will fill up rapidly.
We are all familiar with the amazing photographs get into difficulties and it can be a whole lot of fun Basic equipment is predominantly protective. You
that emerge from deep beneath the ground showing to get you safely out again! will need a helmet. It makes for a useful mount
underwater rivers and waterfalls, stalagmites If the idea of crawling through mud water and for your head-torch and it keeps your skull intact.
and stalactites and all manner of strange things. assorted slime in the dark appeals to you, where do Given that you will inevitably encounter low ceilings
Like diving, caving is not something we would you start? We suggest you visit the British Caving and that they will win in event of a contest with
recommend that you indulge in without both Association ( HYPERLINK “http://www.trycaving. your head, this is an absolute necessity. Unusually
company and training, in fact we’ll go further and org/”www.trycaving.org) for guidance and one manufacturer is dominant in this field, Petzl.
actively suggest that you don’t even think about it support. Here you can find information regarding Expect to pay between £50 and £150 depending on
without both! Like diving the reasons are obvious, caving clubs, training, events and get access to specification and whether or not it has a torch as

044 W W W.RAIDER-MAG.COM

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- C A V I N G U N D E R
part of the package. Those of you who are familiar
with head-torches will also be utterly unsurprised
to hear that Petzl are pre-eminent in this area
too although there are other makers whose also
address the particular requirements of cavers. In
the UK www.ledcaplamps.co.uk offer some lamps
that remind us of time spent down the pits, which
given their intended use is no bad thing! Other
manufacturers like Fenix produce a range of lamps
with the required combination of rugged build, water
resistance and excellent battery life. It’s fair to say
however that Petzl have been the market leaders in
head-torches for as long as we can remember (quite
a while) so we aren’t going to get gnarly about this.
You do need your torch to be bright, durable and
waterproof, ideally to about 50 metres so that it
can cope with all conditions. You can pay anything
from about £30.00 for the Petzl Pixa 1 up to around
£300.00 for the Petzl Rush with belt battery pack.
That’s lot of money but remember; all those great
backlit photographs in caves are staged, expect
the sort of darkness in which you will have to slap
yourself to be certain your hand is actually in front
of your face. Lighting is a key piece of equipment.
Since caves and water seem to be attracted to
each other you will be looking for outerwear to
protect you from the worst muck and wet you
encounter. A basic over-suit from Warmbac will
set you back around £80-90 pounds and to that
you should reckon on adding a thermal base layer,
protective gloves and boots – probably well-fitting
wellingtons. Just to cheer you up you can add to
all this the knowledge that at some point you won’t
just be crawling along a cave floor but very possibly
044-045 ADRENALINE.indd 45
O U R
“Although cavers are not some kind
of closed, secret society, the nature
of their pastime more often than not
hides them away from the rest of
us, in the same way that the objects
of their attention as locked away
and that gives the whole pursuit a
slight air of mystery...”
climbing and descending on ropes! Oh yes – caving
potentially has it all. It is for this reason that we
recommended that you don’t try to get everything
you might potentially need all at once, it could get
very expensive. It follows, as night follows day
that once you start tackling this sort of challenge
underground you are going to require all manner
of specialist equipment such as climbing harnesses
(the ones used by cavers tend to differ from
standard climbing harnesses), ropes, ascenders,
abseiling gear and very possibly ladders too.
We strongly advise that you track down a local
club or group and go try before you go any further.
You may not think that being in a small, dark space
underground is going to bother you but you cannot
know for sure until you try. Better you find out that
caving isn’t for you whilst you are in company and
with people who can get you out safely if that’s what
you need. On the up side if you find that you are
reasonably at home, those same companions can
help you get the most out of the experience.
One question we came across several times while
working on this article was “why go caving?!” It
clearly struck a lot of people as tantamount to
madness. The best answer we saw was “Why
wouldn’t you go caving?!” but that is rather playing
to the converted. It can be dirty, challenging and
hard work but the rewards are to gain access
to places and features that very few people will
ever see unless you photograph them and post
on forums and social media. There are miles and
miles of caves, not to mention old mine workings
and other tunnels and diggings to be explored.
Some of them are quite literally natural works of
S P O T L I G H T
art while others are a testament to the ingenuity
and determination of mankind. The fact is that
without effort and training you simply won’t be
able to experience them first-hand any other way.
Although cavers are not some kind of closed,
secret society, the nature of their pastime more
often than not hides them away from the rest of us,
in the same way that the objects of their attention
as locked away and that gives the whole pursuit a
slight air of mystery.
From Durness in Scotland, through Yorkshire
and the Mendips and into Somerset, there are
cave systems waiting to be discovered. Follow the
links given above and you’ll find people who will
be only too willing to introduce you to the wonders
that lie beneath all of our feet. If the UK feels to
limiting, there are caves throughout the world
which can be explored. Some are full-blown tourist
attractions – you won’t need your kit for these but
others are immensely challenging and only really
to be attempted by the experienced. If the bug
bites your passion could carry you from one end
of the world to the other as cave systems are to be
found from Australasia, through Africa, into North
America and pretty much all points in between.
Caving requires a mix of skills and disciplines,
some easier to acquire than others. Compared to a
gentle jog on a Sunday afternoon it is challenging,
physically and mentally. The reward is going where
relatively few of the billions of us stumbling around
above you on the surface of the planet have ever
been or will ever go.
W W W.RAIDER-MAG.COM 045
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AD TEMPLATE.indd 1 12/06/2015 16:13
 JACK PYKE UNDER OUR SPOTLIGHT - THATCH REED
VOLUNTEER WAR-STORIES

THE BOOT KNIFE

LIKE MOST THINGS IN LIFE, KNIVES COME IN ALL SHAPES AND SIZES AND ALL PRICES. THE JACK
PYKE BOOT KNIFE COMES IN ONE SHAPE, AND YOU’LL FIND IT FOR SALE FOR LESS THAN £15.00 IF YOU
SHOP AROUND. THAT’S NOT A LOT OF MONEY FOR A KNIFE FRANKLY, SO IS IT ANY GOOD?
A QUICK DESCRIPTION
The Boot knife is made from 440 stainless steel
and the blade and tang are one solid piece. The
scales are bolted in place using Torx screws, so
can be tightened of even allow for replacement
fairly easily. As best we can ascertain, the
scales are constructed from birch ply, shaped
and stained black to match the coating on the
steel. The three inch blade has a tanto form;
straight edge with a further straight edge to the
tip, sitting at approximately 45 degrees to the
main edge. It’s not a format I’m a big fan of, but
I’m willing to be persuaded.
The supplied sheath is made from two pieces
of moulded plastic, held together with a series
of small phillip headed screws. The fit in the
sheath is very snug, which is just as well as
this is the only method of retaining the knife.
There are a series of holes through the sheath
through which the supplied nylon cord can be
threaded to allow you to attach the knife to
whatever you choose.
Whether Jack Pyke really intend that you tie
this to your ankle is a moot point, outside of
the movies, I cannot see a lot of point to that
method of carry. On the upside, there is a great
deal of potential flexibility for mounting this
knife on your kit, which is as well as there is no
clip on either the knife itself or the sheath.
Contrary to some reports I have read of this
knife, it came out of the packaging perfectly
sharp. In fact it went straight into the kitchen
and was used to prepare chicken and vegetables,
a reasonable analogue for skinning and jointing.
Despite the short blade, it made short work of
these tasks and the tanto profile proved to be inspires a degree of confidence in it’s ability
surprisingly useful. to perform and to keep on performing. I
The scales give the boot knife a chunky profile, personally have no issues with smoothing
but the deep finger grooves allow a secure down those screws, and I could honestly care
grip and the knife fits the hand well. There is less about the scale fit. I would be much more
a raised serration at the back of the blade that concerned if the scales moved in use, they
locates and secures your thumb, and while no certainly don’t. I reckon this knife will take
knife is fool-proof, you shouldn’t find your hand anything thrown at it (within reason) and just
slipping around this blade. For it’s size the keep coming back for more. It is a tool to be
boot knife is surprisingly heavy. Not massively used, not a work of art to be admired. I don’t
heavy per se, but substantial enough to give the know about you, but I hang art on the wall at
impression that the materials used are dense home, tools go in my bag. That’s where you’ll
and of reasonable quality. The coating used is find this knife from now on.
adequate to protect the the steel, but I would be
disingenuous if I said it was the best I have ever
encountered. It is up to the job, of that I have
no doubt. The knife is reassuringly stiff; you
would expect that with a short blade but it gives
a feeling of precision slightly at odds with it’s
stubby appearance.
I have a couple of criticisms. Some of the
screws used to fix the sheath together project
through the other side leading to a couple of
slight points which could snag on clothing or
kit. Easily dealt with with a couple of strokes
of a file. Secondly the fit of the scales to the
tang could be a little better, but it’s acceptable.
These comments must be taken in the context
of a knife that costs less than a round of beer
in a decent pub. Neither are deal-breakers,
and in truth they really don’t detract from
the knife.
The boot knife is a cheap knife, I don’t
say that as a criticism, but as a statement
of fact. It is also a workman-like tool that

“ THE BOOT KNIFE IS A CHEAP KNIFE, I DON’T SAY THAT AS

A CRITICISM, BUT AS A STATEMENT OF FACT. IT IS ALSO A FRO M
WORKMAN-LIKE TOOL THAT INSPIRES A DEGREE OF CONFIDENCE £15.00
IN IT’S ABILITY TO PERFORM AND TO KEEP ON PERFORMING.”

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 JACK PYKE UNDER OUR SPOTLIGHT - THATCH REED

JACK PYKE BOOT REVIEW

LAST MONTH WE INTRODUCED
YOU TO THE JACK PYKE BRAND,
THIS MONTH AS YOU HAVE
ALREADY SEEN, WE ARE MAKING
GOOD ON OUR PROMISE TO TEST
AND REVIEW SOME OF THEIR KIT.
WHATEVER YOU DO, YOUR FEET
ARE IN LINE TO TAKE A POUNDING
through with ease and the hinge keeps the
eyelet flush to the surface of the boot for
excellent fit over the instep. There is an open
eyelet on the tongue itself; given that this is
a long tongue this is a simple yet excellent
addition, keeping the tongue in place and
preventing it from sliding down into the boot
during wear.
Despite their imposing nature, the Hunters
boot is remarkably comfortable. We asked for
a size 10 for review, the intended feet being
nearer a nine and a half. We are used to boots
not being overly generous in sizing and were
The high rubber rand provides comprehensive
kick and scrape protection to the leather
and although we spent more time than was
reasonable in standing or running water, the
only way we could see to get wet feet was to
over-top the boot. Top marks, as wet feet are a
sure route to an unpleasant day. The Thinsulate
keeps your feet warm without them getting
sweaty and unpleasant, the antimicrobial
treatment will deal with the results if you do.
The Hunters, as the name suggests, are aimed
at those who need a solid boot for long days
spent outdoors pursuing game. They will excel

– IT'S JUST THE WAY WE ARE ALL
BUILT. THIS MONTH THEREFORE
WE TAKE A LOOK AT A COUPLE
OF PAIRS OF BOOTS FROM JACK
PYKE – BOTH VERY DIFFERENT TO
EACH OTHER BUT BOTH SHARING
SOME SOLID CORE VALUES.
pleasantly surprised to discover that Jack Pyke
are clearly aware that out there, real people
at this, however they are also a practical option
for anyone who spends days in the country and
with real feet will be buying their boots. The
fit is excellent and generous but not so large
wants to keep their feet dry and comfortable.
The one thing we didn't test was how they
that a pair of boot socks was all that was performed as purely walking boots, simply due
required when paired with the flexible lacing
system, clearly a genuine size ten.
to lack of time. Our guess, and it is that, is that
they would be fine, but not ideal, in part due to
All new footwear feels 'new', obvious, but
you know what we mean, however the days of
that high ankle. That said, many who will buy
and use these probably cover more miles in a
arduous and painful breaking in are hopefully day than leisure hikers!
long gone, certainly the Hunters can be worn
straight from the box, and we did. Width, FRO M

THE HUNTERS BOOT

With an RRP of £120, this is a fairly serious
bit of footwear, an impression that a quick
look at the specs. confirms: Full grain leather,
Vibram trek rubber sole. High rubber rand for
all terrain protection. Hydroguard membrane
which is waterproof and breathable, with
200gms Thinsulate insulation. Agion
antimicrobial treatment (odour resistant).
Padded tongue and heel technology. Speed
lace system. Our first impression was, “these
are big”, definitely not for dancing. A more
sober evaluation started spotting details – the
lower lace loops are both hinged and topped
with rollers which allows the laces to pass
length, everything was pretty much spot on.
These aren't specifically lightweight boots, it's
£120
difficult to achieve that while having all the
features found here, but they aren't heavy to
wear and the leather upper is flexible. We were
delighted to see the Vibram sole unit used here,
they are simply good, rugged hard-wearing
units and these ones have a very aggressive
tread pattern moulded into them. Grip was
excellent on all surfaces, wet or dry, smooth
or rough. Thanks to the high ankle and the
lacing system support for the lower leg is
very good and we would be confident of the
boots ability to protect against accidental
injury as a result of a
slip or trip.

IF YOUR LIFE KEEPS YOU OUTDOORS, THESE

WOULD BE A SENSIBLE AND WORTHWHILE
INVESTMENT, BEING DRY AND COMFORTABLE IS A
MAJOR PLUS FOR ANYONE. THE PRICING ON BOTH
BOOTS IS MORE THAN FAIR GIVEN WHAT YOU GET
FOR YOUR MONEY AND AS STATED ABOVE, IN THE
HUNTERS REVIEW, WE HAVE NO HESITATION IN
RECOMMENDING EITHER PAIR TO YOU.

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 JACK PYKE UNDER OUR SPOTLIGHT - THATCH REED
Although we had some familiarity with Jack
Pyke and their products, we were honestly Both the Hunters and the Tundra are
unsure what to expect from these. In a global well-made and well-designed by people who
world where you can only guess where gear understand that it's the basics that can make
is actually made and to what standard, it's or break a product. Both sport excellent
wise not to second guess a product. We can lacing systems, and having long laces and
report that we were singularly impressed with with their intended use, this really matters.
the Hunters. Well made, from good materials Materials are of uniformly high quality and
they exhibit the sort of design features that properly matched to their environment.
only come from people who know what their They are comfortable straight from the box
customers want and need. We will be giving which only promises better things to come as
these plenty of use over the coming months they see increasing use.
and will report back on our experiences with
them. It is fair to say that we have absolutely
no qualms so far in recommending these if
you're in the market for a boot that can handle
pretty much anything the British countryside
can throw at your feet.

JACK PYKE TUNDRA BOOT

It's been a month for feet, as we also received
a pair of Jack Pyke's Tundra boots for review.
These couldn't be more different to the
Hunters, all high-tech and photo-realistic
patterns, but in fact once you scratch the
surface these two have more in common than
you'd expect!
The figures: 900D Cordura, Hydroguard
membrane - waterproof and breathable. 200gms
Thinsulate insulation. Padded tongue and heel.
Leather toe cover. Lightweight: 1.25 kg.
Where the Hunters has the look you would
associate with a full-leather boot – sort of
old-school meets modern, the Tundra screams
“modern!” at you as soon as you lay eyes on
them. It's that English Oak camo pattern that
covers pretty much the entire boot – only the
toe protector and sole aren't camouflaged.
Clearly the Tundra is aimed at those who want
to maximise their camouflage and as such are
probably a more specialised boot than the
Hunters. That aside, how do they perform?
With the advantage of having both sets of
boots here, we were immediately struck by
how light the Tundras were. Not quite floating
away, but those man-made materials make a
real difference. Taking them out of the box we
noticed also that the 900 denier material felt
reassuringly stiff and hard-wearing. The sole
unit is unbranded but carries a well-moulded
tread pattern that will cope with rugged, wet
surfaces. Having pulled out all the packing we
were able to give them their first run. This was
where the similarities with the Hunters started
to emerge...
SIZING
It was immediately evident that the sizing of
the Tundra was almost identical to the Hunters
- a true size ten. Although the Tundra has a
simpler lacing system it works astonishingly
well. Anyone who has struggled with ill-thought
out or poorly executed lacing systems will
appreciate this one. The lower four loops are
made from nylon material; flexible and easy
to pull tight. The remainder are open, plastic
hooks in which the gap for the lace is slightly
smaller than the thickness of the unstressed
lace. This means as you pull the lace tight,
it pops in and stays in. Simple and so very
effective. It makes getting the tension on the
upper part of the boot utterly intuitive, always
an area where is is too easy to get things wrong
and frustrating for the wearer. Full marks to
Jack Pyke, we realise that this seems like a
simple and obvious thing but so many makers
don't do anything other than the basics and let
themselves down as a result.
Laced up, that lack of weight was completely
obvious and the Tundras felt immediately
comfortable. A good dog walk later confirmed
this impression – properly laced up, there was
no movement on our feet, no abrasion and no
sliding around inside the boot.
Like the Hunters, the Tundra uses Hydroguard
to allow moisture out and keep ground water
away from the wearer. Once again this worked
without any hindrance, if anything the lighter
Tundra was even more comfortable than the
Hunter whilst being worn. We even used them
whilst strimming a particularly overgrown
patch of ground, a sweaty job that really does
require sure footing. The Tundras took it all
in their stride, keeping us dry, protected and
secure throughout.
With a recommended retail price of £78.95
these are a wee bit of a bargain. We will
be quite honest and confess that not being
dedicated hunters, we would love to see this
boot in a solid colour – olive perhaps – but
that is for Jack Pyke to decide and they clearly
know their customers well. The Hunters could
be worn pretty much anywhere, we would be
slightly more reticent with the Tundra, but,
and it's a big but, that is a very personal view.
You might be more than happy to sport these
when out and about and frankly we couldn't
blame you.

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 V O L U M E

GUN REVIEWS • GAME REPORTS • HOW-TO GUIDES • GEAR TESTS

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 DIRECT africa

ACTION!
HMS BULWARK RESCUES OVER 1100 REFUGEES
UNLESS YOU HAVE BEEN LIVING UNDER A ROCK FOR THE PAST FEW YEARS YOU CANNOT HAVE FAILED TO
BE AWARE OF THE TRAGEDY UNFOLDING IN THE MEDITERRENEAN AS REFUGEES FROM AFRICA AND BEYOND
ATTEMPT TO FIND A NEW LIFE IN EUROPE, AWAY FROM CONFLICT AND THE THREAT OF DEATH AND VIOLENCE.
THE EU HAS RECENTLY STEPPED UP IT'S RESUCE EFFORTS AND BRITAIN'S ROYAL NAVY, IN THE FORM OF
HMS BULWARK HAS BEEN INSTRUMENTAL IN THIS ENDEAVOUR. AT THE TIME OF WRITING, HMS BULWARK
HAD JUST RESCUED OVER 1100 REFUGEES FROM SMALL, DANGEROUS, LEAKING BOATS.

W W W.RAIDER-MAG.COM 051

051-054 DIRECT ACTION.indd 51 15/06/2015 13:45

 DIRECT
ACTION! H M S B U L W I C K R E C

africa
HMS BULWARK SENDS AID

052 W W W.RAIDER-MAG.COM

051-054 DIRECT ACTION.indd 52 15/06/2015 13:45


E C U E S O V E
On a recent visit to HMS Bulwark, Defence Secretary
Michael Fallon praised efforts being made by the
Royal Navy in the Search and Rescue operations in
the Mediterranean.
Mr Fallon’s visit came as HMS Bulwark was called
to assist with its largest rescue operation since
deploying last month, which has so far today seen
over 1,000 migrants being rescued. This brings the
total number of individuals rescued so far by HMS
Bulwark to over 2,700.
The latest callout saw the use of all eight of HMS
Bulwark’s landing craft and amongst the migrants
rescued are at least 10 pregnant women. These
migrants are part of a wave of more than 3,000 that
have recently left Libya in an attempt to cross the
Mediterranean.
HMS Bulwark and three Royal Navy Merlin
Helicopters deployed on 5 May and have played a
leading role in the Search and Rescue mission, part
of a wider EU effort to stem the flow of irregular/
illegal migration across the Mediterranean.
The Defence Secretary said:
“HMS Bulwark continues to play a vital role saving
lives at sea and I want to thank them for their
unwavering efforts.
“Working alongside the Italians, Germans, French,
the Netherlands, Irish and the Portuguese, we are
showing how European navies are working together
with their ships and helicopters, to bring about a
successful temporary solution. But now it’s time
051-054 DIRECT ACTION.indd 53
NEWS FROM THE FRONTLINE
R 1 1 0 0 R E F U G E E S
for Europe as a whole to work together to agree a
solution, before we see a greater loss of life.”
During his visit to the region, Michael Fallon also
spent time in Malta, a country with which the UK has
strong historical links and which is playing a key role
in the operation.
“We value our close partnership with the Maltese
Armed Forces and welcome the crucial support the
island provides to our forces and warships operating
in the region, including HMS Bulwark. I look forward
to our strong partnership and close ties continuing
into the future.”
Nick Cooke-Priest, Captain of HMS Bulwark, said:
“Starting very early this morning this has been
an intense, complex day. My helicopters have done
a brilliant job locating a number of migrant vessels
and my landing craft have effected their rescues
with typical professionalism and complete success.”
“While the rescue operation is still ongoing, this is
already Bulwark’s largest rescue mission to date. We
have conducted five separate rescues already today
with a further two ongoing.”
“In many ways this search and rescue mission
is like an amphibious operation – I’ve deployed
landing craft and aircraft in multiple waves, in poor
visibility, operating autonomously over the horizon –
the objective this time of course, being to save life.”
“But it’s only through being trained for high
intensity warfighting operations that we are able to
execute such activities in peacetime.”
W W W.RAIDER-MAG.COM 053
15/06/2015 13:46
 DIRECT
ACTION! T H E R O Y A L N A V Y

africa
HMS BULWARK SENDS AID

Since the EU operation was established at the Foreign

Affairs Council last month, as well as deploying HMS
Bulwark and three Royal Navy helicopters, the UK
has also contributed five military personnel to the
Operational Headquarters, based in Italy.
The Operational Headquarters (OHQ) is now
conducting initial planning with an aim to developing
a comprehensive solution which will help the
countries where these migrants come from to reduce
the push factors for irregular migration; to build
stability and create livelihoods; and to go after the
criminal gangs and trafficking networks which are
profiting from this activity.

054 W W W.RAIDER-MAG.COM

051-054 DIRECT ACTION.indd 54 15/06/2015 13:46

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