The segment opens on Day 3, Part 1 of SHOT Show 2025 with the crew running on minimal sleep but ready to cover more booths. They mention plans to visit B&T and Ferro Concepts, highlighting interest in a new chem light deployment setup. Tac 11 body armor rated to stop .308 at around 2 pounds is also on the list to see. Despite show fatigue and long days on the floor, the focus is on continuing to explore new gear and technology across rifles, armor, and accessories.
At the Zastava Arms booth, the discussion centers on the new Zastava RPK. It was announced at the previous SHOT Show, with the first batch arriving just before the new year and selling out quickly. Another shipment is expected in March. The RPK uses a 1.5 mm bulged trunnion receiver and a 21-inch chrome-lined barrel with cooling fins. It includes a quick-detach bipod and flip sights with windage adjustment. The rifle is finished with European beech wood furniture to preserve an original-style appearance. Zastava positions this RPK as a high-performing production AK-pattern light machine gun option.
Zastava also showcases the titanium Vuk AK suppressor, displayed on the RPK but sold separately. It is described as a very light, quiet AK suppressor using a patented PIP flow-through design intended to reduce recoil, minimize blowback, and tighten shot groups. The suppressor weight is stated as 3.4 ounces with a HUB interface, and it is rated for up to 50,000 rounds with proper cleaning. Testing has been done across multiple calibers, including 5.56, 7.62, .308, and 7.62x54R on the M91, with similar recoil and accuracy benefits reported. Classic Firearms has a T&E example waiting for evaluation once the team returns home.
Zastava Arms USA is now offering AB1 and AB2 parts kits imported directly from Serbia. These are demilled at the factory and are not firearms, allowing them to ship directly to customers. The kits are based on original Yugoslavian M70 military rifles and can include features such as windage-adjustable rear sights and original Zastava furniture. Some kits show trench art, reflecting prior military service. The hosts note that AK builders can use these kits to assemble their own rifles or to accessorize existing rifles with authentic components. With parts kits becoming less common on the market, Zastava’s imports are presented as a timely option for enthusiasts and builders.
The coverage moves to Bergara, where the focus is on updates to the BMR (Bergara Micro Rimfire) line in .22 LR, .22 WMR, and .17 HMR. For 2025, Bergara introduces new steel and carbon versions aimed at base-class .22 competition. The updated BMR steel model uses a heavier number 6 contour barrel and adds an adjustable stock with length-of-pull adjustment, raised cheek comb, bag rider, more vertical grip, and a flatter fore-end. It is threaded 1/2x28 for a suppressor and includes QD flush cup sling mounts on both sides, plus a 30 MOA rail for extended rimfire distance. The carbon version mirrors the stock features but uses a carbon fiber barrel for weight savings, positioned as a versatile plinker and small-game rifle.
Bergara also highlights Premier Series barreled actions and standalone actions now offered in multiple configurations. One example is shown installed in an MDT Hunt 26 chassis and chambered in 7 PRC. Barrel options include carbon fiber, fluted steel, a number 5 contour, and a heavy competition profile. These barreled actions allow shooters to pair Bergara Premier actions and barrels with their preferred chassis or stock from various manufacturers. The intent is to give builders a ready-to-drop-in precision foundation while still allowing customization of the final rifle setup.
The segment closes at Ferro Concepts with a look at updates to the FCPC plate carrier. A new front flap is shown, featuring a standard three-magazine pouch with an additional five-cell bungee-equipped panel mounted in front. The bungee section can hold items such as initiators or other small equipment. The updated pouches incorporate adjustable inserts using hook-and-loop so users can change the height to accommodate different magazine or accessory lengths, including taller rounds. The focus is on improving modularity and fit while maintaining compatibility with the existing FCPC plate carrier platform.