Table of contents for UN12 Issue #24 in UN12

Welcome back, and thank you for joining us for another packed-to-the-rafters issue of UN12. In this issue, we take an in-depth look at no fewer than five custom firearm builds that range in temperature from mild practicality to over-the-top creativity. On the practical end of the spectrum, we join the owner of a Smith & Wesson M&P10 as he updates an old, reliable workhorse with the addition of wood furniture. Before that, we also take a look at a side-charging 11.5-inch AR-15 that’s been finished in a MultiCam Arid Cerakote pattern, creating a clean and purposeful desert-inspired setup. No matter what your preferred style is, UN12 embraces creativity and innovation. Our goal is to share unique builds that show the many different directions firearm personalization can take. One example in…

Snake Staff Systems Defender IFAK Standard MSRP: $85 URL: snakestaffsystems.com Our 2¢: Medical gear is often overlooked but could suddenly become the most important part of your EDC. Snake Staff Systems packages essential trauma supplies into a compact kit that’s small enough to realistically carry daily. Having a well-organized IFAK like this on hand means you’re better prepared to respond when seconds matter most. Several kits are available to support varying mission sets. Streamlight Wedge SL MSRP: $110 URL: streamlight.com Our 2¢: The Wedge SL is a modern take on the everyday-carry flashlight. Its slim rectangular shape rides comfortably in the pocket while still delivering plenty of illumination. With simple controls, durable construction, and an integrated clip, it’s a dependable lighting solution for both daily tasks and emergency situations. Spyderco…

01 320 RPM Rate of Fire The MK47 is capable of a sustained firing rate of approximately 320 rounds per minute, delivering high-volume 40mm firepower. 02 Integrated Round Counter An onboard round counter helps armorers track weapon usage and maintenance intervals. 03 40x53mm NATO Compatibility The launcher can fire standard high-velocity 40mm grenade ammunition used by other NATO automatic grenade launchers. 04 Effective Range With an effective range of 1,500-2,000 meters, the MK47 allows operators to engage targets well beyond typical small-arms distances. 05 Multi-Platform Deployment The MK47 can be mounted on tripods, drones, unmanned ground vehicles, and remote weapon stations. 06 Advanced Fire Control Compatibility The launcher can integrate with optics such as the Raytheon Lightweight Video Sight (LVS), combining a laser rangefinder, ballistic computer, and imaging. 07 Lightweight…

The Smith & Wesson M&P10 debuted at SHOT Show 2013 and quickly earned attention for delivering a full-featured AR-10 pattern rifle at a price that many shooters could actually afford. At the time, rifles with ambidextrous controls and precision-oriented barrels were still largely the domain of higher-end builds. Smith & Wesson’s entry brought many of those features to a wider audience, which is exactly why the owner of this rifle picked one up in 2014. “Smith’s M&P10 brought features like ambidextrous controls & precision barrel geometry to a wider audience, and that’s what drew this owner in.” Already familiar with the brand through his M&P9 and SW1911 E-Series pistols used in competition, the move into a .308 rifle felt like a natural progression. The M&P10 offered the same straightforward, practical…

There’s no shortage of places to look for ideas when planning a custom rifle. Some builds are based on military-issue carbines, competition guns, or a favorite videogame loadout. This 5.56 rifle went in a different direction, pulling its visual identity from classic wartime aircraft. Inspired by the P-51 Mustang, P-40 Warhawk, Spitfire, and other well-known fighters that wore checkered noses, invasion stripes, shark mouths, and military markings, this rifle turns that aviation influence into a functional AR-15 with a distinct look. At the center of the build is a 13.7-inch Rosco Manufacturing barrel chambered in .223 Wylde. That chambering gives the rifle the flexibility to run both .223 Remington and 5.56 NATO, which makes sense on a rifle that is clearly meant to be used and not just displayed. The…

If you have spent any time handling Glocks, you already know the conversation that tends to follow. For many shooters, a factory Glock is a solid starting point, but it is rarely the end point. Some leave them mostly stock, swapping only a sight set or trigger shoe. Others start looking at the pistol as a base platform and begin replacing the parts they feel can be improved. This Glock 34 Gen 3 built by Jay of Violent Art Firearms takes that second approach about as far as it can go. Rather than simply upgrading a few weak points, he went nearly all-in and built the pistol from the ground up into a competition-inspired package with a very different look from his usual work. Jay is no stranger to full…

PCCs have become a favorite range companion for many shooters. The combination of manageable recoil, affordable ammunition, and familiar controls makes pistol-caliber carbines easy to shoot well and easy to enjoy for long practice sessions. For the owner of this Grand Power Stribog SP9A3G, the platform offered something even more appealing: a modern PCC that feeds from the same Glock magazines he already had on hand. That compatibility was a big part of what drew him to the SP9A3G when Grand Power released the model. Instead of needing to invest in a completely new ecosystem of magazines, he could use the same Glockpattern mags that already filled his range bag. For many shooters, magazines represent a significant portion of the long-term cost of a firearm platform. By avoiding that expense,…

Many clone builds aim to replicate a specific military configuration as faithfully as possible. For some enthusiasts, that means chasing every small detail—from the correct roll marks to period-correct optics and mounts. But not every clone builder approaches the project that way. Sometimes cost, availability, and real-world practicality shape the final result just as much as historical accuracy. That’s exactly the case with Steve from Texas. When he first began this build, he wasn’t necessarily trying to assemble a perfect clone. His goal was simpler: building an accurate .223 rifle that could pull double-duty as a varmint-hunting rig. But as the parts started coming together, the project naturally evolved into something more recognizable—a rifle that ended up looking very much like a Mk12 Special Purpose Rifle. Steve’s journey started with…

EOTech’s holographic weapon sights have long been a familiar presence on rifles configured for defensive, duty, and competition roles. The company’s EXPS series in particular has been a common choice for shooters running magnifiers or night vision devices thanks to its side-mounted controls and a raised base that clears most backup iron sights. The EXPS3 HD builds on that established platform while introducing a revised reticle and a new exterior design intended to improve visibility and ease of use. One of the most noticeable changes is the optic’s hoodless aluminum construction. Traditional EOTech sights feature a protective hood surrounding the window, but the EXPS3 HD uses a refined all-aluminum housing without the external hood structure. This design increases the amount of visible space around the viewing window, which can help…

Bersa BP9 FS The BP9 FS is a slim, striker-fired 9mm pistol designed for concealed carry and everyday defensive use. Its lightweight polymer frame, low bore axis, and ergonomic grip help deliver excellent control and comfortable handling. The pistol features a smooth trigger, integrated safety features, and a corrosion-resistant finish for dependable performance. With its thin profile and practical capacity, the BP9 FS offers a reliable, easy-to-carry option for shooters looking for a straightforward defensive handgun. MSRP: $450 bersausa.com Zeiss PRO-SERIES UNIVERSAL TRIPOD This tripod is built to provide a stable shooting platform for rifles, spotting scopes, binoculars, and cameras. Designed for versatility in the field, it features durable aluminum construction and adjustable legs for steady support across uneven terrain. A universal mounting system allows quick adaptation for a wide…

01 Vampire Tools Vampliers Mini 5” Screw Extraction Pliers MSRP: $29 URL: vampiretools.com 02 Chums Surfshorts Wallet MSRP: $12 URL: chums.com 03 711L Tools Mini Ratchet Wrench TG MSRP: $60 (amazon.com) URL: 711ltools.com 04 711L Tools 1/4” Hex Square Socket 2-in-1 Extension URL: 711ltools.com Note: Bits shown available separately. 05 Hamilton Khaki Automatic Watch Model 041520 Out of Production URL: hamiltonwatch.com 06 Nite Ize Stainless Steel S-Biner Dual Carabiner Size: #3 MSRP: $5 URL: niteize.com 07 SureFire Titan Plus MSRP: $169 URL: surefire.com 08 Benchmade Osborne Model No.: 940-04 MSRP: $300 URL: benchmade.com 09 Tenicor IWB/AIWB Holster (Model shown discontinued) URL: tenicor.com 10 Holosun SCS MOS MSRP: $412 URL: holosun.com 11 Glock 19 Gen3 OEM Spare Slide MSRP: $400 URL: glockstore.com 12 Holosun P.ID-K Weaponlight MSRP: $153 URL: holosun.com 13…

Sometimes a custom firearm starts with a strict plan. Other times it starts with parts that are already on hand and a builder deciding to see how they’ll work together. This 11.5-inch SBR from Violent Art Firearms falls into the second category. It came together from quality components that were available in the shop at the time, but the final result does not look random or rushed. Instead, it shows how a well-chosen set of parts can come together into a compact rifle with a clear role. Violent Art Firearms has generally recommended a 12.5-inch barrel as a strong middle ground for compact AR builds, especially when a suppressor is part of the equation. That extra inch can help with overall balance, dwell time, and reliability while still keeping the…

Social media and Internet forums are great places to go and argue with someone you’ve never met about everything. You could literally post a picture of your breakfast plate while saying, “I love starting the day with an everything bagel and cream cheese while the sun is shining through my window #happy #blessed,” and before long have 50+ comments telling you everything bagels are garbage, sunlight is for <expletives> alongside personal insults towards you, your mother, the country you live in, and the last six generations of your family. Ah, the Internet: bringing people closer together since Al Gore invented it in his basement. And while some topics and Internet arguments fizzle out quickly, every group has a select few that persevere through the years. One of the most common…

Modern range days and backcountry trips increasingly depend on portable electronics. Whether it’s charging optics, powering a chronograph, keeping phones alive for mapping apps, or running a small fridge for a long training day, reliable off-grid power has become part of the kit. On several recent trips we put the Nestout 700N portable power station to work to see how it handled the kinds of real-world tasks shooters and outdoor travelers rely on. At the heart of the unit is a 712Wh lithium-ion battery capable of delivering 700W of continuous output with a 1300W surge. That level of power places it in a useful middle ground—large enough to run meaningful gear, but compact enough to carry without dedicating half your cargo space to it. Our primary test involved running an…

Aprecise firearm is only half of what you need. Accurately engaging a target requires precision sights. For generations, iron sights served shooters well, but their limitations become apparent as distances stretch and conditions become more challenging. Modern optics have dramatically expanded what shooters are capable of, providing faster target acquisition, greater accuracy, and improved confidence behind the trigger. Among the most versatile advancements are variable magnification optics. Once limited primarily to hunting rifles, today’s low-power variable optics (LPVOs) and mid-range variable scopes have become a mainstay across sporting, defensive, and professional applications. With the ability to quickly transition from true 1x for close-quarters engagement to several levels of magnification for distance work, variable optics offer flexibility that fixed-power designs simply cannot match. Advances in lens coatings, illuminated reticles, first- and…

A simple spray-can camo job is one of the fastest ways to change the look of a firearm. It’s also one of the most common DIY modifications among shooters. Traditional spray paint is inexpensive, easy to apply, and easy to touch up. The problem is durability. Standard paints tend to wear quickly on firearms that see regular handling, sling contact, or time in the field. More permanent finishes exist. Urethane, epoxy, and ceramic coatings are widely used in the firearms world because they offer strong resistance to chemicals, abrasion, and general abuse. The downside is that many of those coatings require specialized tools such as airbrushes, spray booths, or curing ovens. For shooters working at home without that equipment, applying those types of finishes can be impractical. DuraCoat has long…

Most shooters understand the importance of training. Regular time on the range builds familiarity with a firearm and reinforces the fundamentals needed to operate it effectively. Repetition builds muscle memory that can become critical during high-stress situations. What sometimes gets overlooked, however, is that firearms are only one part of the broader set of tools many people carry. Skills with other equipment—such as medical gear or a knife—also benefit from regular practice. Many people carry some form of edged tool as part of their everyday carry. For some it’s a simple utility knife used to open boxes and handle daily tasks. Others prefer a purpose-built defensive blade designed for quick access and deployment. Regardless of style, a knife is a tool that requires familiarity and responsible handling to use effectively.…

Everyday carry is personal. Some setups lean toward minimalism, while others prioritize capability for the unexpected problems that can pop up during a normal day. The two loadouts shown here illustrate different approaches to preparedness. One setup emphasizes compact tools and defensive capability in a pocket-friendly format, while the other leans toward organization, outdoor readiness, and utility. Both reflect thoughtful gear choices designed to make daily life a little easier—and a little more prepared. 01 Spyderco Para 3 Sprint Run MSRP: $288 URL: spyderco.com 02 Carhartt Nylon Duck Front Pocket Wallet MSRP: $30 URL: carhartt.com 03 Casio WS-1700H-5AV Watch MSRP: $46 URL: casio.com 04 Magpul DAKA Utility Organizer Large MSRP: $45 URL: magpul.com 05 Leatherman Rebar Multi-Tool MSRP: $100 URL: leatherman.com 06 Nestout 3-in-1 Whistle Light MSRP: $25 URL: nestout.com…

Vampire Tools Vampliers Mini 5”Screw Extraction Pliers MSRP: $29 URL: vampiretools.com Our 2¢: Anyone who has ever dealt with stripped screws knows how frustrating they can be. Vampliers are designed specifically to grip damaged fasteners and remove them when normal tools fail. The compact five-inch version fits easily into an EDC toolkit while providing serious problem-solving capability. Benchmade Osborne MSRP: $300 URL: benchmade.com Our 2¢: Few knives have achieved the everydaycarry reputation of the 940 series. The 940-04 continues that legacy with a slim profile that virtually disappears in the pocket yet offers plenty of cutting performance. Its balanced design and durable construction make it a knife you can carry daily for years. 711L Tools Mini Ratchet Wrench TG MSRP: $60 (amazon.com) URL: 711ltools.com Our 2¢: Compact ratchet drivers have…

Customizing a Glock is a common step for shooters looking to tailor performance or aesthetics to their preferences. Slide cuts, porting, and optic milling are now widely available, but turnaround time can vary significantly depending on the shop. GlockStore’s 10-Day Custom Shop services aim to shorten that wait by offering several modifications with a stated 10-day turnaround once the parts arrive at their facility. One option in that lineup is the GS “R” Cut. The service adds matching ports to the front of both the slide and barrel, which are designed to vent gases upward and reduce muzzle rise during firing. The concept is straightforward: As the bullet exits the barrel, gas escaping through the ports helps counteract the upward motion of the slide, keeping the pistol flatter during recoil.…

Ironclad has built a reputation around durable work gloves designed for demanding environments. The company’s products are widely used by mechanics, construction workers, and heavy equipment operators, where features like reinforced knuckles, cut-resistant materials, and safety cuffs are common requirements. Building on that experience, Ironclad also produces a dedicated line of gloves designed for military, law enforcement, and tactical applications. The Ironclad tactical catalog currently includes eleven different models, each designed with slightly different priorities such as ventilation, impact protection, or grip enhancement. For this review we spent time with three examples from the lineup: the Tactical Grip, Tactical Trigger Impact, and Caliber Vented. The Tactical Grip model focuses on handling and control. Its palm material provides a secure interface when gripping tools, equipment, or firearms, while still allowing for…

Red dot optics have become a common sight on modern pistols. What began as a niche setup primarily seen on competition guns has steadily worked its way into everyday-carry pistols as well. Today it’s not unusual to see a compact defensive handgun equipped with the same optic technology once reserved for race guns. As the technology has matured, shooters have discovered that the same advantages that benefit competitive shooters—faster target acquisition, improved sight tracking, and the ability to stay visually focused on the target—translate just as well to defensive handguns. For many shooters, the transition to pistol optics has fundamentally changed how they approach handgun shooting. Instead of aligning multiple sight planes, shooters reference the dot while keeping their vision focused on the target. This simplified visual process can make…

Few modern rifles have had the long operational lifespan or global reach of the Colt M4A1. Introduced as a compact evolution of the M16 family, the M4A1 has become one of the most recognizable military carbines in the world. Decades after its introduction, the platform continues to hold a place not only in military service but also in Colt’s current product lineup—an indication of how durable the design has proven to be. Colt’s history as a firearms manufacturer stretches back nearly two centuries, and the company has produced millions of service rifles for military customers around the world. Within that legacy, the M4A1 stands out as a defining modern product. Officially designated with National Stock Number (NSN) 1005-01-382-0953, the Colt M4A1 Carbine has served as the standard-issue rifle for all…

RIFLE: First 2x shoots at center target Third shot at left target Fourth shot at right target PISTOL: First 2x shoots at center target Third shot at left target Fourth shot at right target First published in Issue 001 of UN12, this drill remains one of our favorite ways to reinforce core shooting fundamentals. While gear and trends may change, the building blocks of good shooting—control, consistency, and deliberate practice—remain timeless. It’s no secret that your skill as a shooter is directly tied to how much trigger time you get. But simply blasting away without a purpose rarely leads to improvement. A well-structured drill gives your practice direction, helping develop accuracy, control, and speed through repetition and discipline. In this article, Frank Proctor of Frank Proctor Shooting, a training company…