This issue is compounded with tactical clothing and gear intended for those in the line of duty, because shirts and pants that fit aren’t just about comfort, they’re about support, protection, providing access to mission-critical gear, and other factors that influence success while on the line. 

That being the case, it’s not just a matter of comfort but of public safety that clothing, such as pants and jackets, fit first responders, law enforcement personnel, and others properly. 

So, do you need a new pair of big and tall tactical pants? Here are a few ways to tell. 

Your Pants Squeeze Your Waist

Number one, if your pants squeeze your waist and you can feel it, not just when you are sitting down but when you are standing, you need a new pair of big and tall tactical pants. This is a dead giveaway. 

For a softer assessment, you can also try the “two finger test”, in which you insert two fingers into your waistband. If you can’t fit two fingers between your waistband and your waist, your pants are too small. 

Of course, this is patently uncomfortable, too, so you may not need the test. If your pants are causing discomfort, it’s time to upgrade. Make no concessions in the line of duty. 

Your Pants Squeeze Your Thighs

If your pants don’t squeeze your waist, but they do squeeze your thighs, that’s a problem too, though for slightly different reasons. 

For one, it is uncomfortable, and it can restrict your range of motion, which can be dangerous. That alone is reason enough to forfeit your current pair of pants for a pair of big and tall tactical pants. 

But, pants that squeeze your thighs will also prove uncomfortable in both hot and cold conditions, especially the latter. Looser-fitting, baggier clothes are safer in the cold. Tight clothing does not trap air next to the body and can even restrict bloodflow, introducing a new dimension to an already unpleasant situation. 

The bottom line: if your pants are squeezing your thighs, it’s time for a new pair that’s larger and more accommodating, not to mention more comfortable.

You Can’t Fit Anything in Your Pockets (or Get It Out Once You’ve Pocketed It) 

Before we even get to why it’s a problem if you have trouble accessing your pockets, one way you can test to see if your pants are too small is to look for something known as “pocket flare”.

Pocket flare manifests as a crescent-shaped, bulging pocket, when there is nothing in the pocket, and even when you are standing or sitting in a comfortable position. 

But, you’ll also notice if your pants are too small because you can’t get anything into your pockets. Or (and this is equally likely) you can’t get your effects out of your pockets once you get them in. 

Your field gear supports you in your line of work. Pants that make it hard to pocket essentials like lights, knives and spare mags, or worse, pants that make it hard to retrieve them, are a no-go. You need a new pair of big and tall tactical pants that support you better. 

Sitting Down or Bending Over Is Uncomfortable 

Another big sign you need larger pants is if you’re uncomfortable when you sit down or bend over. If the pants squeeze you or you feel the seams, zippers or buttons stretching, then that’s a pretty sure-fire sign the pants are too small. 

It’s Hard to Button or Zip Anything 

Lastly, if it’s hard for you to zipper any pockets, or the fly, or if you can’t get any buttons fastened, that’s a big sign that the pants are too small. 

If you strain to fasten buttons or get a zipper completely closed, replace your pants sooner rather than later with a pair that actually fits. 

Get a New Pair of Big and Tall Tactical Pants Here 

Wearing a pair of pants that are too small or too tight in the line of duty isn’t just about discomfort. It can limit your access to your gear, cause you to overheat, predispose you to hypothermia, or even restrict your range of motion. All of these can be dangerous. 

If you’ve noticed anything mentioned in this article when you’re wearing your current duty pants, that’s a pretty big sign it’s time for you to upgrade.

Shop our collection of big and tall tactical pants. We carry clothing and field gear from the top brands, including but not limited to UF Pro, Lindnerhof, Ironclad, Born Primitive and others. Check out our catalog and get in touch with us if you have any questions about anything we sell.

Some High-Level Notes for Wooden Muzzleloader Stock Care

For all wooden muzzleloader stocks, routine cleaning is necessary. After a day in the field or at the range, use a microfiber cloth or other dry, clean rag to remove dust from the field or fouling from the exterior of the stock. 

If the stock is very dirty, you can use a mild detergent along with a cloth and some warm water to gently dislodge it. You don’t want to leave fouling or grime on a wooden gunstock or it will stain or damage it over time.

If you do use a damp cloth, make sure you wring it out before applying it to the stock. It should only be damp, never wet, or you will introduce moisture to the stock that is not needed. Also, wipe the stock down with the grain to avoid damaging the wood or the finish. 

If the stock has checkering, you will want to pay particular attention to those areas. You can use a toothbrush or a nylon brush to remove grease, fouling, grime or other debris from the checkering. Just don’t leave the fouling there or it will damage the finish of the gun stock over time.

When you remove the barrel to clean the gun, make sure you clean the stock in the area where it is bedded to the barrel as well, as this is an area where moisture, fouling and other debris will accumulate. If it is left unchecked, it will cause either wet or dry rot. 

If the stock has an oil finish, it will benefit the stock to periodically re-treat it with an appropriate oil finish, such as Birchwood Casey’s Gun Stock Oil, which will raise a beautiful sheen, or else Tung Oil, Danish Oil, or even boiled linseed oil, to the stock.

Apply only a very small amount to the stock using a cloth, sponge or rag, allowing the stock to absorb some, then diligently wiping away the excess so as to prevent it from leaving a sticky or tacky residue. 

Also, if the wood is varnished, lacquered, or treated with some other glossy finish, treat it with a finish like beeswax or Renaissance wax that will help restore the sheen of the wood. Again, use as little as possible, and be careful when applying to checkered areas, so that you can prevent excess from accumulating in these areas. 

If you have any light scratches on the stock, these can usually be remedied by buffing them out with very high-grit sandpaper, especially if the stock does not have a varnished or lacquered finish. Simply buff along the grain and treat with oil and that should redress the issue. In some cases, you might be able to use a light stain or a wood touch-up marker to cover up the scratch. 

How and where you store the gun will also impact the condition of the stock and its longevity. Consistent, cool dry conditions are just as good for a wooden muzzleloader stock as they are for the steel components of the gun. 

Moisture will cause the wooden stock to swell and can exacerbate rot, and high temperature swings can cause delamination as well as other issues regarding the finish of the stock. Keep the gun stored in a cool, dry area away from direct sunlight and the gun will require less maintenance from you over the long haul not to mention that you’ll likely experience fewer issues with rust and rot.

The Case for a Modern Synthetic Muzzleloader Stock 

Now, this high-level guide should tell you most of what you need to know about how to care for a wooden muzzleloader stock, but it remains the case that, though they are traditional and beautiful, modern synthetic muzzleloader stocks are actually a better bet. 

There are numerous reasons for this, as well. For one, a synthetic muzzleloader stock will require less maintenance than a wood stock. It will never need to be conditioned or oiled, and on top of that, synthetic stocks won’t be prone to the same issues of wet and dry rot that wood stocks are.

Also, since they are non-absorbent and won’t hold onto moisture, synthetic muzzleloader stocks won’t shed moisture in proximity to the steel components that can cause rust and corrosion. 

More importantly, though, is the aspect of synthetic muzzleloader stocks that has to do with performance. There are a number of reasons they can outperform wood stocks.

Most notably, synthetic stocks, since they won’t absorb moisture and will change minimally if at all in response to changing atmospheric conditions, which is critical when it comes to upholding a high standard for accuracy. 

Wooden stocks absorb moisture, even when it’s ostensibly dry out. This can cause them to shift their zero, so your point of aim no longer corresponds precisely to what the point of impact will be. At close ranges this effect is often negligible, but at extended ranges, the effects can be pronounced. 

It’s even more exaggerated when shooting a muzzleloader with an optic at ranges in excess of 100 yards, where small aberrations can be dramatically magnified. 

So, ultimately, synthetic muzzleloader stocks are lower maintenance and also make it possible to uphold more consistent standards for higher accuracy and overall performance. 

Shop High-End Muzzleloader Stocks Here 

If you’re considering upgrading your favorite front-stuffer with an advanced, synthetic muzzleloader stock that will offer some of the benefits mentioned in this article, you’re in the right place. 

Check out our full collection of muzzleloader stocks (and other muzzleloader accessories such as speed loaders and ramrods) and if you have any questions about anything we sell, get in touch with us directly and we will help you out.

Even though it’s chambered in a relatively low-recoil cartridge, 9mm, put enough rounds downrange and eventually your wrists and shoulders will feel it. 

Reducing felt recoil, one way or the other, and in turn muzzle flip, will help you shoot more comfortably for longer with less fatigue, and probably more accurately as well. 

That being the case, here are 4 actionable suggestions, some of which you can put into practice right now with no modifications needed to the gun, and all of which will help counteract felt recoil. 

Install an HK Compensator 

All else being equal, the most impactful thing you can do to reduce recoil in your VP9 is install an HK compensator. 

Compensators are muzzle devices that alter the manner in which gasses are ported at the muzzle. There’s more than one type of compensator, but many of them port the gasses directly upward. 

Doing so redirects the force of felt recoil such that there is a net force pushing the muzzle down, rather than just directing the fact backwards into your wrists and frame. 

This not only diminishes felt recoil, in some instances by close to 50%, but it also cuts back on muzzle flip. In the latter instance, the effect is such that you can often make faster, more confident and more accurate follow up shots. It also reduces the time between shots, which can be invaluable not just during competition but in the event of stressful defensive situations. 

It is one of the most impactful upgrades you can make that will have a very significant and material effect on the felt recoil you experience when shooting your VP9. 

Moreover, an HK compensator like one of the ones we sell here at Anarchy Outdoors will not adversely affect shot power, as you might expect. Recoil gets reduced but the round still retains just as much ballistic energy as it would were the gun not compensated. 

Lastly, the HK compensators we carry here at Anarchy Outdoors are available in several colors, so you can personalize your VP9, and on top of that, they are relatively easy and straightforward to install as well. 

Install a Heavier Guide Rod

Another upgrade you can make to your VP9 in addition to the installation of an HK muzzle brake is the installation of a heavier guide rod. 

The stock guide rod that the VP9 comes with is a polymer guide rod. This the HK shares in common with another popular series of pistols, Glocks. 

The thing about a polymer guide rod is that, being made of polymer, it doesn’t need any maintenance and will never rust. The other thing about a polymer guide rod is that it is relatively lightweight.

This is both a blessing and a curse. On the one hand, it makes the gun lighter and easier to carry and potentially to point. But a lighter gun with less static mass is not necessarily a good thing.

Adding a heavier guide rod to your VP, such as a stainless steel guide rod, will not just add static mass to the gun, which will patently absorb recoil, it will strategically add mass right near the muzzle. 

This can be huge, not just because it adds mass but because it specifically stabilizes the muzzle. This will help you keep the gun steady as you aim (despite the fact that it will be a bit heavier) and it will also help keep the muzzle steady on firing. 

This, paired with an HK compensator, is the perfect one-two combo to fight back against muzzle flip. Make both of these upgrades and you will have an HK VP9 that, though heavier, is more stable and shoots much more smoothly with less felt recoil and muzzle flip. 

Shoot Lighter Loads

One other unique way to cut back on felt recoil and muzzle jump, especially if all you are doing is target shooting and you don’t want to make upgrades to the gun (or aren’t comfortable doing so), is to shoot lighter loads.

Specifically, loads that produce muzzle energy, cause muzzle energy is one of the primary determinants of felt recoil. 

Take a look at the box of ammo that you typically shoot. You should see a metric there for muzzle energy, which is measured in either foot-pounds or Joules (J). Holding all else equal, the higher this figure is, the more felt recoil and muzzle jump the round will produce. 

If you can’t see a metric for muzzle energy, what you want to do is find rounds that are lighter in mass or which produce lower muzzle velocity, since these are the factors which yield muzzle energy. 

Adopt a Better Grip and Stance

Lastly, how you hold the VP9 matters. A better grip and stance won’t physically reduce felt recoil, but they will render you better able to manage it. 

Wrap your shooting hand fully around the gun’s grip, as high as you can without getting bitten by the slide. Wrap your support hand fully over your shooting hand, with your thumbs lying alongside each other and supporting one another. The idea here is to maximize surface area contact between you and your HK VP9.

Extend your elbows, lock your wrists, bend your knees slightly and lean forward a little bit at the waist. Altogether, doing so will help you absorb and therefore control the forces of felt recoil. 

Put Some of These into Practice Today 

Each one of these suggestions can help you manage or reduce felt recoil and muzzle flip. If you combine all of them, you will enjoy a VP9 that shoots smoothly, with less felt recoil and muzzle jump. 

Explore our collection of HK compensators (which are compatible not just with the VP9 but with the VP40), and put some of these suggestions into practice the next time you’re at the range. You’ll be glad you did.

One of them is a muzzleloader bullet starter. To be blunt, you should not be using your ramrod to start the bullet down the bore. This post will take a closer look at why. 

The Problem of Using the Ramrod As a Muzzleloader Bullet Starter 

The inadequacy of a ramrod, no matter what it’s made of, for starting a muzzleloader bullet down the bore, is the main reason that a muzzleloader bullet starter is still a must-have in the field. 

This is the case not just for wooden ramrods, but for aluminum, fiberglass, and other synthetic ramrods as well. 

It should be obvious that wooden ramrods are not suitable for that use, because they are prone to breaking when stressed, especially when gripped too far above the muzzle.

But leave that alone, because aluminum, fiberglass, and other synthetic ramrods are not ideal for starting a bullet, either. 

Let’s look at aluminum. It bends. And if it bends, even if you can still use it to drive home a bullet, it will become exceedingly difficult to ensure that the nose of the bullet is properly aligned with the centerline axis of the bore when you seat it. 

So there’s that, but now we also have fiberglass ramrods to consider, which are commonly advertised not just as flexible, but unbreakable. 

Try hard enough, and anything will break. This includes fiberglass muzzleloader ramrods. If you break it, you’ll be up a creek with a bullet driven halfway down the barrel. You can’t shoot it out and without a ramrod you won’t be able to pull it out either. 

There is also the redundancy factor to consider. If you had a muzzleloader bullet starter but it broke for some reason you would still have your ramrod to use for that application. If you only have the one, you’re much more vulnerable to the vagaries of chance. 

Granted, there are better muzzleloader ramrods out there, like our three-piece aluminum muzzleloader ramrods, but they still should not be used as muzzleloader bullet starters, even though they solve many of the issues of conventional ramrods. 

And That’s Why a Muzzleloader Bullet Starter Is a Possible’s Bag Essential 

So, in a nutshell, the risk of breaking or bending a ramrod is the main reason you don’t want to use one as a muzzleloader bullet starter. A bent one is an issue too. 

A muzzleloader bullet starter, especially a modern one made of nylon and with a threaded tip that accepts interchangeable loading jags is a lot better than a traditional wooden one. 

First, it’s a redundant backup. It will free you from using your ramrod for that application. 

Second, a nylon bullet starter is better than a traditional wooden ball starter because the latter are plagued by the same issues that plague wooden ramrods. They’re not as strong and if you don’t apply the force straight in line with the shaft, you’re liable to break it. 

Plus, many traditional wooden (or even antler) bullet starters don’t have threaded tips, so you can’t use different loading jags. 

Modern nylon muzzleloader bullet starters are not just much stronger than wooden bullet starters and thereby more tolerant of abuse, but if they can accept different loading jags, they are much more versatile when you’re loading something beyond the standard patched round ball. 

What Other Muzzleloader Accessories Should You Have in Your Possibles Bag?

A muzzleloader bullet starter is not the only muzzleloader accessory that you should have in your possibles bag. You should also have: 

• Loading jags
• Cleaning jags such as slotted jags and breach scrapers 
• Patches or sabots depending on what you’re loading
• Bullets or balls
• Either a loading block or a muzzleloader speed loader
• A patch worm
• A ball puller
• A silent ball discharger 
• A powder horn or flask
• A powder funnel and measure 
• Caps 
• A vent pick and brush 
• A breach plug wrench or cone wrench 
• Basic tools for maintenance 

Flinter and caplock shooters may have some unique needs for muzzleloader accessories that are different from what inline shooters use, but all the same, this list is fairly comprehensive for most applications and should cover most bases. 

Shop Muzzleloader Accessories Here

Need to replace some muzzleloader accessories in your possibles bag? Check out what we offer here and get in touch with us if you have any questions regarding what we sell. We carry better muzzleloader ramrods, bullet starters, speed loaders, cap holders, and much more. Whatever your pack or possibles bag lacks, we can help you address the deficiency so you’re better prepared in the field.

But what happens when you have a stock that works against your rifle? Accuracy can suffer. 

This is just one of the reasons that the KRG Echo chassis represents one of the best upgrades you can make to these rifle platforms. 

Here’s what you should know. 

Stability That Outperforms Wood

Some Tikka T3 and T3x rifles are outfitted with hardwood stocks from the factory. Notably, the T3x Hunter and Forest models are. 

Now, hardwood gun stocks are beautiful and lend an unforgettable class, air and character to the rifle, but the fact of the matter is that hardwood stocks are not just harder to care for, they are also a lot more temperamental than synthetic stocks like the KRG Echo.

Leave alone the fact that wood is a natural material that is subject to the ravages of both wet and dry rot in addition to UV-related damage. Wood is porous, and therefore will absorb atmospheric moisture in some capacity or other, even when it is sealed and finished, as many wooden gun stocks are. 

The problem here is that the dimensions of a wooden stock will change when the atmospheric conditions change, even if you have a high-quality wood stock, a properly bedded action, and a free-floated barrel. 

When the wood stock warps, that will change the torsion and other forces on the action and thereby on the barrel, which can throw off your zero. As you may be familiar as a rifle shooter, even the most seemingly insignificant changes in stock dimensions can have a profound downstream effect on accuracy, and with a wood-stocked rifle, they often do.

The bottom line is this: beautiful though wood may be, when it comes to downright accuracy, there is no better option than a high-quality synthetic or alloy stock that will not shift in response to changes in atmospheric conditions, humidity, temperature or otherwise. 

These are among the most notable reasons that the KRG Echo chassis represents the most impactful upgrade you can make to your T3 or T3x rifle. Boasting construction from a reinforced, lightweight polymer, the KRG Echo will not warp or swell when humidity rises, maintaining an impeccably consistent experience, and a steady zero. 

It will uphold the standards of accuracy for which Tikka rifles like the T3 and T3x are famous around the world. 

Adjustability and Ergonomics 

Another shortcoming of wooden gun stocks is that they are, by nature, not inherently adjustable. Therefore, unless there are special features built into them, you get a fixed comb height and length of pull, or LOP. 

The issue here is that comb height can influence eye relief as well as the angle through which you view the optic, which can result in parallax distortion, and on top of that, length of pull is one of the most determinants in how well a rifle fits a shooter. 

Not being able to adjust a rifle stock forces the shooter to adapt to the platform rather than the other way around, which is perverse. A rifle should not offer one-size-fits all performance, which is more often than not what you get from a wooden gun stock.

This is another issue that the KRG Echo chassis, which is perfect for Tikka T3 and T3x rifles, offers. It is inherently adjustable and enables easy adjustments for both comb height and length of pull.

The cheekpiece allows for 1 inch or so of travel, and length of pull can be adjusted from between roughly 12.8 to 15 inches using the appropriate spacers and hardware, giving a better fit to the shooter, and accommodating different shooters, weather conditions and clothing, and more. 

Attachment Points 

In addition to its inherent stability (which improves accuracy) and adjustability, the KRG Echo also offers a wealth of attachment points. On top its external QD cups for mounting swivels, the KRG Echo also has a length of Picatinny rail under the forend along with M-LOK slots along the forend for mounting shooting attachments. 

So, the platform is relatively expandable, once again offering more versatility and flexibility than most wooden rifle stocks would from the factory. Whether you want to add a bipod or just a sling (or some other attachment) the KRG Echo makes that practical. 

What Else?

In addition to what’s been covered here, the KRG Echo chassis delivers other value added features as well. 

The chassis is well-adapted to smaller profile barrels and requires no bedding, which is a bonus. As an added feature, it also limits heat and cold transfer, regardless of the conditions, which is another pointed benefit to hunters and other shooters. 

The KRG Echo chassis is also equipped with a stainless steel recoil lug in lieu of the stock aluminum lug that would otherwise come with the stock that comes with the Tikka T3. 

All in all, the KRG Echo is similar to the Bravo, but is lighter and thinner, improving overall handling and reducing fatigue while carrying the rifle in the field. 

Learn More About the KRG Echo Chassis Here 

Still have questions about the KRG Echo rifle chassis? If you’re thinking about upgrading your Tikka T3 or T3x and have questions before you buy, get in touch with us and we’ll help you figure out if this rifle stock upgrade is right for you. It might just be the best upgrade you ever made for your rifle.

But there’s a whole other layer to this, especially for guys who are uncustomarily tall or heavier. It takes a bit of practice and experience to tell when your tactical pants don’t just make the grade because they lack the features, but because they are too short or too small.

So, this guide should help with that. Here are some things to look out for that should tip you off that you need a new pair of pants, and that moreover the new pair should be a pair of big and tall tactical pants. 

The Warning Signs of Improperly Sized Tactical Pants 

Let alone the other features of your tactical pants for a moment. Let’s just consider if they’re sized appropriately or not. You may need a new pair of big and tall tactical pants if:

• Your current pants are noticeably too short. If your current pants ride up when you kneel or bend your leg, they’re likely too short. Also, some tactical pants have special padding or reinforcements by the knee; if your knee is not aligned, height-wise, with these pads on the pants, they’re likely too short for you. 
• They’re too tight across the thigh. If your pants pinch your thighs, they won’t just be uncomfortable but will create serious pressure points at the seams that can result in tears or rips when you bend over, stretch or reach. 
• Your waist is too tight or there is a gap. The waist should ride you comfortably and the belt loops shouldn’t all bunch up in one place. Similarly, there shouldn’t be undue stress at the crotch or fly because the pants are too small.
• The pants don’t rise far enough. This should be most noticeable in the crotch region; if the area is too tight or the pants just aren’t riding comfortably, you probably need big or tall tactical pants as a replacement. 
• Your pockets bulge. When pants are too small, the pockets will bulge where there is pressure on them, creating a semi-circular appearance at the top of the pocket. If this is the case you may need a pair of “big” pants. 
• If there is any strain at any of the zippers or buttons. Pants that are too tight (or too short) may incur a lot of strain on zippers, buttons, or even seams. If this happens it’s a pretty sure sign you need a larger or taller pair of pants.

Keep in mind that all brands and manufacturers may use their own proprietary sizing, and that some tactical clothing (pants and otherwise) may run either small or large. Therefore, do research, read reviews, and don’t be afraid to reach out to a seller before buying if you have any questions about sizing. 

What to Look for in Big and Tall Tactical Pants 

Now that you know what to look for to determine whether your tactical pants are too small or too short, here are some general things you should look for in big and tall tactical pants anyway.

• Durability. High-quality big and tall tactical pants are often made with Cordura or ballistic nylon and are resistant to abrasion and wear. The higher the quality of the fabric, the more durable the pants will be and the longer they will last. 

• Flexibility. The same fabrics that constitute a high-quality pair of big and tall tactical pants should also be somewhat flexible. This will improve comfort over the long haul. 

• Mobility. A pair of big and tall tactical pants should also keep you mobile and move with you as you work. 

• Storage space. Any quality pair of tactical pants should have numerous specialized pockets to help you store your gear. Good tactical pants will have light and mag pockets as well as other standard pockets. If they are zippered or secure with buttons that’s even better.

• Protection. Some tactical pants are configurable with protective add-ons like knee pad inserts that help protect against punctures when the wearer is kneeling. 

• Insulation and breathability. Also, some tactical pants can be upgraded with liners that improve their insulative value in the cold. Others are designed for operation in hot conditions and are strategically gusseted or vented to improve circulation to keep the wearer cool. 

Explore Tactical Clothing from the Top Brands in the Industry Here 

Thinking you might need a new pair of big and tall tactical pants based on what you’ve read in this article so far? Check out our full collection of tactical clothing from top brands like UF Pro and Lindnerhof, and get in touch with us if you have any questions about what we sell or the features of the tactical clothing we represent.

Why This Is an Excellent Arken Scope 

There are numerous features of this Arken scope that make it a great choice for hunters and long-range shooters. Here are the best of them. 

• Precision Tracking. This Arken scope (like others) guarantees precision tracking, which is critical to accuracy. What this means is that the reticle moves, accurately, with turret adjustments. This is called tracking and it is necessary for any quality scope, not just one that will be used as intermediate or extended ranges. Since the tracking is on-point and guaranteed, it streamlines adjustments at different ranges, and ensures that the crosshairs are properly aligned. This aspect of the scope is also covered under Arken’s warranty so if it doesn’t work as intended, for whatever reason, you can get the issue addressed. 

• Parallax adjustment capabilities. Viewing a scope through an angle or with a bad mount can result in a parallax distortion which can cause the reticle to appear over a portion of the sight picture that does not correspond to what the point of impact would be. This, obviously, can create aberrations in accuracy. Fortunately this Arken scope is equipped with a side parallax adjustment from 25 yards and out. 

• ED Fluoride Glass. This Arken scope is also made with Japanese extra-low dispersion, or ED glass. ED glass is designed to correct color defects that arise as a result of different wavelengths of light not converging properly. This improves the clarity and contrast of the sight picture, especially at extended ranges where magnification can cause loss of contrast and overall sight picture quality. In short, ED glass significantly improves the clarity of the sight picture, improving target acquisition and shot placement, especially at longer ranges. 

• FFP. This Arken optic features a First Focal Plane, which means that the reticle sits in front of the magnification lens. This means that you can change the apparent size of the reticle as it is superimposed over the sight picture, if you want to. Holdovers will remain accurate at all illumination settings and ranges as a result of this feature. For instance, making the reticle larger can make it more visible in low light; making it smaller can increase the accuracy of shot placement which can be critical at longer ranges or with smaller targets or vital areas. 

• Zero Stop. These Arken scopes have a Zero Stop feature, which means that the scope will automatically stop the elevation turret at zero, so the shooter doesn’t need to remember the zero; the scope has that memory built in. 

• Up to 25x Magnification. A good long range scope should offer variable magnification but it should also offer magnification of several times; in this case, the Arken EP5 offers up to 25x magnification, for increasing the apparent size of far-off targets, making it an excellent option not just for intermediate but for long-range shooting. 

• Available in MOA or Mil. Regardless of whether you prefer minute of angle or milliradian scopes, the EP5 has you covered. It is available in both configurations.

• Generous Warranty Coverage. Lastly, this Arken optic is covered by the company’s generous lifetime warranty. You can buy in confidence that not only will the scope operate as promised, but that if anything ever goes wrong for any reason, the company will help you rectify it. 

• Competitive price. Considering the quality and features of this Arken scope, it’s really quite a surprise that it doesn’t cost several times the price. Other scopes with similar features can cost several times more than this, which makes it one of the most appealing Arken optics in their catalog, but the most impressive thing is that there are several Arken scopes even more affordably priced than it is.

This is just a short list and is by no means complete, but it does shed some light on why the EP5 is one of the best Arken scopes out there, especially for long-range shooting and hunting. 

Other Selling Points of Arken Scopes

In addition to the specific features that drive value in the Arken EP5, here are a few things you’ll like about Arken optics in general:

• Performance in all light conditions. Arken optics feature Universal Reticle Illumination, which means you can see the reticle clearly in nearly any light conditions, from early morning shadows to late evening. Your point of aim will remain sharp and clear at any time of day, under nearly any conditions. 
• They’re built tough. Arken optics are built to perform in all weather conditions, from high mountain fog to arid desert conditions in bright sun. You can rest easy that your Arken scope is tough enough to hang with the worst that the weather can deliver. 
• Arken optics are covered by expert support. If you have an issue with your Arken scope, you can reach out to their customer service team worry free by phone or email and expect an expedient and professional response. 

Explore More Arken Optics Here 

While the Arken EP5 series delivers incredible value and performance for the price, it is only one of the Arken scopes we sell here. Take a closer look through our collection at the previous link to learn more about the optics we represent as well as what features and functionality they offer.

Then, if you still have questions about any of the optics we sell, or would like a personalized recommendation based on your rifle and setup, or based on your intended shooting discipline, get in touch with us and we will be more than happy to help.

It’ll prove even more capable when outfitted with one of the RAW HM1000X chassis that we sell here at Anarchy Outdoors. But let’s not get ahead of ourselves. Here’s what you should know.

Why the RAW HM1000X Is a Game Changer

There are so many features of the RAW HM1000X air gun that it’s hard to pick one to start with, but here are just a few of the things that make this an excellent air rifle: 

• It’s available in three calibers, .22, .25, and .30, suitable for everything from long-range target shooting to hunting small game and even medium to large game in the larger caliber. This platform offers unmatched versatility. 
• Each airgun is made with a hand-lapped, polygonal-rifled Lothar Walther barrel that delivers exceptional accuracy even at extreme ranges. 
• These air rifles are equipped with high-pressure regulators that ensure exceptional consistency from shot to shot. 
• These air guns are equipped with extended carbon fiber air cylinders that offer a high shot count per fill, delivering expanded capacity. 
• A 2-stage adjustable match-grade trigger is crisp, consistent, and helps deliver precise shot placement. 
• These air rifles are equipped with smooth side-lever actions that enable quick, fluid cycling for rapid follow up shots with effectively no interruption to the sight picture. 
• A Picatinny rail system over the rifle is prepared for high-powered optics demanded for long-distance shooting disciplines. 

In short, these air guns are optimized not just for long-range precision shooting, a discipline that’s often reserved for rimfire and centerfire rifles, but in appropriate calibers, such as .25 and .30, they’re effective for pursuing both pest control and hunting medium game, where legal. 

In addition, they offer the following: 

• These air guns are bedded into CNC-machined aluminum chassis that offer excellent stability and rigidity along with numerous attachment points for unrivalled expandability. 

The latter observation brings us to our next point: how you can upgrade one of these airguns with a RAW HM1000X chassis from our collection, which is even better than the stock aluminum chassis. 

Why to Upgrade with One of Our RAW HM1000X Competition Chassis

While the CNC-machined aluminum chassis that comes with the RAW HM1000X is itself a work of art, if you upgrade to one of our RAW HM1000X competition chassis, you’ll take the performance of these RAW air guns up a notch, if that’s even possible. Here’s what they offer: 

• Extremely strong construction. These RAW HM1000X chassis are made entirely from aluminum, and offer high strength, high rigidity, and require minimal maintenance. They are also very lightweight. 
• A fully ambidextrous design. It doesn’t matter whether you’re a righty or a southpaw, these chassis are designed to perform just the same. They offer excellent comfort and ergonomics and peerless accessibility regardless of your preferences. 
• This RAW HM1000X chassis also sports full-length integrated ARCA rails as well as multiple M-LOK slots along both sides of the chassis. This gives you the flexibility to expand your air gun with a wide range of shooting attachments. 
• This chassis is outfitted with an Anarchy Outdoors Omega Precision Rifle Grip that is designed to improve comfort and reduce fatigue. 
• This chassis is compatible with a wide range of aftermarket buttstocks so you can adjust the rifle to your preferences for a perfect fit. 
• For night hunters that utilize thermal optics, this RAW HM1000X chassis also supports up to two Night Vision Bridges, giving you the flexibility to adapt your air gun platform to night hunting pursuits. 
• Customizing the air gun platform is easy since this chassis is available in 4 different colors, graphite black, gunmetal grey, flat dark earth, and raw aluminum. 

In short, this RAW HM1000X chassis will give you the flexibility to expand your air gun with a variety of different shooting attachments while offering you an ergonomic platform that will let you shoot, fatigue-free, for longer. It’s also optimized for long-range shooting, further adding value to the platform. 

To Learn More About This RAW HM1000X Chassis

Accessible, fully ambidextrous, and endlessly expandable, this RAW HM1000X chassis gives you the ability and flexibility to customize your air rifle in a nearly endless number of ways. 

It is strong, modular, and optimized for long-range shooting disciplines as well as sporting applications including pest control and small and medium game hunting. If there is one way to upgrade your RAW HM1000X, this is it. 

For more information on this RAW air gun chassis, or if you have specific questions about compatibility, expandability, or anything else, get in touch with us directly and we will be more than happy to help. 

But could the rifle be better? As with literally any firearm platform, the answer is a resounding yes, especially on a lever-action that’s as (if you can excuse it) basic, even dated, as this one. 

One of the best upgrades you can make is with a Marlin rifle stock replacement, specifically the WOOX Bravado stock and handguard kit that is expressly compatible with Marlin rifles (not just this one). 

If you want to take your 336 to the next level, this WOOX stock is likely the best upgrade you can make. Here’s why. 

Improved Fit and Ergonomics

Not that there’s anything wrong with the beautiful hardwood stock that comes with the 336 from the factory, but it could also be way better than it is. 

The WOOX stock and forend represent a considerable upgrade that benefits not just ergonomics and fit, but does so without adversely impacting aesthetics. 

This WOOX stock and forend kit is a hybrid stock made of an artistic fusion of metal hardware and beautiful polished walnut. In fact, it lacks little in terms of aesthetics when compared to the factory original stock. Depending on whom you ask it might even be called better. 

The ergonomics are on par with if not better than the original stock, also, which is a huge consideration. It sports a modern pistol grip with attractive checkering that offers a solid grip and which reduces fatigue, enabling greater accuracy during longer periods at the range or in the field.

And on top of that, the stock is also equipped with a microcell recoil pad that helps absorb recoil, further reducing the impact of fatigue. Flared rear and front ends to the handguard also improve comfort, grip and control as well. 

Both the stock and the recoil pad are ultralight, keeping weight to a minimum, which helps keep the rifle platform light overall, which in its turn reduces fatigue as well, whether you’re carrying or shooting. 

Adjustability 

This is arguably the most important selling point of this WOOX stock for Marlin rifles, specifically for the 336. 

Beautiful as the original 336 stock is from the factory, it really offers nothing in the way of adjustability to the shooter. The comb is fixed, and as for length of pull, the best thing you can do is add a butt pad onto the stock to increase it a little bit. Neither really offers much flexibility. 

The WOOX Bravado offers much more in the way of adjustability to the shooter which will translate to improved handling as well as greater accuracy, with training.

This WOOX stock is fully adjustable thanks to its ability to accept LOP spacers (which are sold separately) in addition to a fully adjustable comb which lets you tailor comb height and eye relief. 

There are few other stocks out there, and none for Marlin rifles, that offer this level of adjustability, giving you the flexibility to cultivate a much more personalized fit between you and the rifle. 

Expandability 

Lastly, if there is one thing to call out as a deficiency of the factory Marlin 336 stock, it’s the fact that it has basically no attachment points beyond its two sling studs. 

The WOOX Bravado, as a Marlin rifle stock upgrade, offers much more. Not only are there M-LOK slots on the right side of the stock itself, there are several M-LOK slots along both sides of the forend. 

The M-LOK slots on the forend completely overhaul the expandability of the rifle by adding attachments points that otherwise would not be there, giving you the flexibility to attach a sling on the side of the forend rather than under it, so that the rifle carries flat against your back, or else other attachments.

These M-LOK slots also give you the flexibility to add other attachments to the rifle, improving its suitability as either a competitive or defensive platform, such as lights and lasers. Ultimately, this Marlin 336 stock replacement offers considerable flexibility when it comes to upgrading the rifle with attachments, rounding out its value. 

Explore Marlin Rifle Stock Upgrades Here 

Want to learn more about how this WOOX stock can overhaul the performance and customizability of your favorite lever action rifle? You can check it out in detail on our website, but if you have any questions, get in touch with us directly and we will be more than happy to answer any questions you have.

There are three main types of bipod feet that the brand offers, which will be covered here, as well as their applicable use cases. 

Rubber Feet

Atlas bipods typically come with rubber feet as a pre-set standard. Nonetheless, they are highly versatile and utilitarian on a wide range of different substrates. 

These are your premier bipod feet if your shooting substrate or platform is not dirt. They’re ideal for benches and also suitable for hard finished surfaces like concrete, cement, asphalt, brick, wood, and other barriers. They also offer a non-slip grip on these surfaces, and moreover, won’t scratch delicate surfaces like wood. 

That being the case, these rubber rifle bipod feet can also be used on wood found in the wild, such as downed trees. While rubber feet aren’t ideal on soft earth, they can be used relatively effectively on sand, dirt, mud, grass and elsewhere, if there is no other option.

Note also that Atlas sells replacement rubber feet for their bipods, so you can easily replace them if the feet wear prematurely. 

These rubber bipod feet install easily thanks to the integral steel plunger. They are compatible with V8, PSR, CAL, and CKYE-Pod models, but they are not compatible with Harris bipods. 

Spike Feet

In addition to its standard rubber bipod feet, Atlas bipods are also configurable with easy-to-install spike feet. 

Spike feet (or more properly, Atlas Raider Cleat Feet) are made from one piece of 303 stainless steel bar stock. They are exceptionally strong and corrosion resistant and will tolerate harsh conditions in the field. 

More important is their versatility with respect to the types of terrain on which they are suitable. They’re great on hard earth as well as on stone, (though rubber feet are good for this as well) and are also effective on all surfaces that require a little bit of pointed traction. This includes wood, but note that the feet will scratch soft surfaces. They’re also highly effective on ice and hard snow. They can be effective on soft earth as well since, despite the fact that the point will sink in, the flange at the base of the foot will help stabilize the bipod. In short, they’re effective on a wide range of surfaces and terrains. 

Like the rubber feet compatible with Atlas bipods, these Raider Cleat Feet are easy to install thanks to the integral stainless steel plunger and are specifically designed for compatibility with Atlas V8, PSR and CAL bipods. 

Ski Feet

Select Atlas bipods are also configurable with ski feet, which feature a completely articulated and smooth foot which can be slid on smooth surfaces to adjust the rifle. These ski feet are suitable on soft earth, snow and finished surfaces (like benches) where a wider, flatter base is necessary to stabilize the rifle. 

They can also be effective on grass and on smooth, soft surfaces where other feet (like spiked feet or even rubber feet) might sink in too far. 

Like the other Atlas bipod feet mentioned here, they are easy to install with compatible models, and will work with V8, PSR and CAL models.

What Else Atlas Bipods Offer

While configurability with different types of feet suitable with a wide range of different surfaces and substrates is one of the key drivers of value and performance in Atlas bipods, there is more that drives value in them as well. 

Models like the Gen 2 CAL (for “Cant and Lock”) bipod sport lightweight yet rugged construction from lightweight yet strong anodized 6061-T6 aluminum with stainless steel components and are adjustable for both cant and height. 

These Atlas bipods are also adjustable with 5 leg positions and can be customized with optional leg extensions. In addition, they are compatible with ARCA and select lever mounts, as well as BT19 and BT21 spigots. 

Highly adjustable, easy to mount, practical on a wide range of surfaces and in varied conditions, and made from extremely durable yet lightweight and corrosion resistant alloys, Atlas bipods are among the most valuable and versatile rifle bipods in the industry, bar none. They are highly utilitarian for hunters, competitive shooters, and others committed to the shooting sports, regardless of discipline. 

Shop Atlas Bipods Here 

If you need a new rifle bipod, shop our collection here. In addition to Atlas bipods, we also represent other top brands such as MDT bipods. Explore our collection to find a bipod for your favorite rifle and if you have any questions about features, specification, or mounting, get in touch with us and we will help.