Coverage continues from the NRA Annual Meeting 2022 in Houston, introduced as day two, part one. Viewers are reminded there is earlier show coverage to watch and a current giveaway running. The giveaway is a Barrett .50 BMG semi-automatic, magazine-fed rifle paired with an EOTech Vudu optic. Entry details include using the code word “2A.” After this brief introduction and reminder, the hosts move directly into booth visits on the show floor to highlight new products and technology from various manufacturers.
At the Vortex Optics booth, the discussion centers on the Razor Gen 3 6-36x first focal plane rifle scope. It follows the earlier Razor Gen 3 1-10x and is aimed at long-range applications such as tactical and PRS-style competition roles. Vortex previously offered the popular Razor Gen 2 4.5-27x for similar uses, but the Gen 3 6-36x introduces several updates. The scope uses a simplified LTE Plus turret and zeroing system with a single set screw and tool-less zero adjustments. The magnification range increases to 6-36x based on customer feedback, and the Gen 3 optical system is described as an improvement over earlier generations, maintaining the Razor line’s focus on long-range performance.
Attention shifts to the Vortex Strike Eagle line, specifically the newer 1-8x first focal plane model. The Strike Eagle series has expanded to include options like a 5-25x, but this 1-8x FFP is highlighted as a more budget-conscious way to access first focal plane low-power variable optics. The difference between second and first focal plane is explained: in a traditional second focal plane hunting-style scope, the image size changes with magnification while the reticle appears constant, causing any BDC or holdover marks to change scale relative to the target. In a first focal plane design, the reticle scales with the image, so subtensions and BDC information remain accurate at any magnification. The 1-8x FFP Strike Eagle uses a technical reticle similar to that in the Razor 1-10x, likely the AR-BDC4 pattern. It employs a completely new optical system compared to the earlier second focal plane Strike Eagle 1-8x, and includes a throw lever on the magnification ring. The retail price is stated at around $700.
The conversation moves to Vortex’s fire control system developed for the U.S. Army’s Next Generation Squad Weapon (NGSW) program. It is emphasized that this unit is fundamentally a rifle scope first, not a fully digital viewing system. It is a 1-8x first focal plane low-power variable optic with an etched reticle, and it functions as a normal scope even without batteries or electronics. Around the optic is an integrated electronic system, including a laser rangefinding module on top. With a button press, the system ranges the target and, using onboard atmospheric sensors and cartridge profile data, instantly provides a holdover or drop point in the display. The goal is to give warfighters very accurate, rapid holdovers to improve engagements. The system has been extensively tested for reliability and is intended to consolidate capabilities that would otherwise require multiple separate devices.
Further details on the NGSW fire control system cover its additional features and future growth. The optic includes a compass to track orientation and can maintain awareness of wind direction once a wind value is entered, even as the user moves. It can communicate with other users equipped with the same optic, allowing sharing of positional information on the battlefield. The laser rangefinder module sits toward the top middle-rear of the unit, while the front section provides mounting points Vortex calls “enablers” for future technology. These are intended for additional devices that can plug directly into the system and work seamlessly, replacing multiple separate accessories often mounted on a rifle’s fore-end. Specific future devices are not detailed. On civilian availability, Vortex notes the product is very new and the company is committed to producing approximately 250,000 units for the Army first. A civilian version is not ruled out, and the technology is expected to influence future consumer products, but no timeline is given.
The segment concludes at the Staccato booth with an overview of the company and its pistols. Staccato is identified as the rebranded name for STI, a change made about two years prior. The company is described as having taken its competition shooting heritage and applied that experience to everyday-use handguns, recognizing that most owners are not competitive shooters. The focus then turns to the Staccato C2. The C2 is presented as the double-stack version of the Staccato C, which is an 8+1 capacity pistol not present at the booth but available at some ranges. The C2 offers a 16+1 capacity with a 3.9-inch barrel and is available in multiple configurations. Through Staccato’s website and gun builder, users can select options such as threaded or non-threaded barrels, stainless or DLC finishes, and optic-ready or non-optic-ready setups, allowing the C2 to be tailored to different defensive or duty roles.
Loading... 
