Firearms x Culture
Craddock Precision has introduced the MK12 Reaper Upper chambered in 6mm ARC. Featuring an 18-inch RTR barrel, KAC FF RAS rail, Allen Engineering collar kit, and complete BCG and charging handle, the MK12 Reaper blends classic MK12 aesthetics with modern long-range AR-15 performance.
Henry Repeating Arms and JK Armament have collaborated on the new Explorer .30-30 lever-action rifle package. Featuring a custom RPX .30 suppressor, optics-ready Picatinny rail, optional Trijicon MRO, and classic lever-action styling, the Explorer blends traditional Americana with modern suppressor and optics technology.
Palmetto State Armory’s H&R division has released the new H&R 606 rifle, a retro-inspired replica of the experimental Vietnam-era Colt 606 platform. Featuring a 20-inch HBAR barrel, M16A1 furniture, slick-side upper receiver, and M2-style bipod, the H&R 606 recreates one of the more unique early M16 support weapon concepts.
Meridian Defense has unveiled the new UCR-103 and Khyber-103 rifles, two premium AK-103-inspired platforms chambered in 7.62x39mm. Featuring cold hammer-forged barrels, folding triangle stocks, optics compatibility, and modernized upgrades, the rifles offer both tactical and classic AK configurations for enthusiasts and shooters alike.
LaRue Tactical has officially introduced the BAR*NONE bolt-action rifle, a 50-state legal platform that combines the familiar ergonomics of the AR-15 and AR-10 with the precision and reliability of a modern bolt gun. Available in 5.56 NATO, .300 Blackout, .308 Winchester, and 6.5 Creedmoor, the BAR*NONE starts at $999 MSRP.
Mitchell Defense introduces the Dual Cool CP1, a 3D-printed dual-layer AR handguard designed to reduce heat transfer through an innovative air-gap architecture. Built using aerospace-grade CP1 alloy and LPBF manufacturing, the premium handguard aims to redefine thermal management, rigidity, and modern AR design.
Triarc Systems has officially unveiled the new G-MOD Retro Rifle, a modernized interpretation of the legendary Gordy carbine used during the Battle of Mogadishu. Featuring a forged carry handle upper, NP3-coated internals, custom 12-inch TRACK 2.0 barrel, and suppressor-ready over-the-barrel setup, the G-MOD blends retro aesthetics with modern rifle performance.
Next Level Armament introduces the Aethon .308 rifle, a fully ambidextrous AR-10 platform featuring a billet receiver set, TriggerTech duty trigger, and B5 Systems furniture. Designed to deliver a more controlled shooting experience, the Aethon claims reduced recoil and improved balance but with limited technical details provided, questions remain about how those performance gains are achieved.
Sig Sauer introduces the M400-FORGE series, including an 11.5-inch pistol and 16-inch rifle. Featuring cold hammer forged barrels, TriggerTech two-stage triggers, M-LOK handguards, Magpul furniture, and a ROMEO-MSR Gen II red dot, the FORGE lineup delivers a complete, duty-ready AR platform straight out of the box.
Cover photo of Heatseeker .308 Pistol from Springfield’s press release. In May 2025, Springfield Armory introduced its Model 2020 Heatseeker bolt-action rifle series which paired precision...
