Read more in the January 2018 issue.

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Phase 5 began after Ken Montes built a firearm component in his garage workshop and showed it to a local shopkeeper who asked him to make more for his store. That first component wasn’t built to make money, just to solve a specific problem. The company prides itself that everything they sell is made in America, on American-built machines, with American-built components.

The Universal Mini Stock is Phase 5’s fixed stock for Stoner-platform rifles that fit a variety of buffer tubes and receiver extensions. Note, the UMS is a stock to be installed on a rifle and installing on an AR-15 pistol variant would be considered an SBR (Short Barreled Rifle) as defined by BATF rules. If you have not paid the fees and received an approved tax stamp from the ATF, it will be illegal to possess an SBR.

Made from raw billet 6061-T6 aluminum – and lighter than most polymer adjustable stocks at 5.7 ounces – and finished with black MIL-A-8625 Type III Class 2 hard coat anodizing, the UMS has a six-position receiver extension. It will fit Phase 5 HexOne or Hex-2 buffer tubes, most cylindrical buffer tubes measuring 1.10-1.25″ O.D., and rifle-length receiver extension tubes, provided the set screw is secured on the cylindrical buffer tube with a small dimple on it. The unit measures 5×1-3/4×2-1/4″. Two set screws and extended hex key for installation are included. MSRP is $69.99, available direct from Phase5wsi.com, or 916/787-4273.

Talon Grips

Talon Grips was founded by Derik Losinger, a law enforcement officer and competitive shooter to enhance comfort, consistency, and weapon retention. Making his first set by hand with an X-ACTO knife, the company moved to mass production with die and then laser cutting. Made in the United States, the company has custom designs for over 300 firearms to provide maximum grip coverage. Each cut design is available in rubber and granulate textures for different applications and user preferences. Full coverage on the side panels and above the thumb rest, ample coverage on the backstrap, and wraps for any finger grooves. The adhesive sticks well, even if the frame has a textured finish.

Each grip is custom designed and manufactured for the specific firearm and has a low profile with almost no bulk. The granulate texture -often referred to as sandpaper or skateboard tape – provides positive purchase and is best suited for holster carry and competition shooting. The rubber texture option is less aggressive and suitable for shooters with softer hands and for inside waistband and other deeper concealed carry options as this texture is less likely to irritate skin or snag on clothing.

The grips install within minutes, forming itself to the firearm with a hair dryer or heat gun. The adhesive will not move once properly installed but can be easily removed with little to no residue (see the included instructions.) Once installed, they are resistant to most cleaning solutions, but the manufacturer recommends avoiding aerosol-based solvents. A cleaning pad is included. MSRP is $17.99 and available direct at TalonGunGrips.com, 970/879-9600.