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Hollywood Haunted Sports – Ticket Giveaway

Sunday, October 6th, 2013

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As part of the Hollywood Haunted Sports media day, each attendee was given four complementary passes to the HHS event. As I am physically incapable of attending, I am giving all four tickets away to one lucky reader. Since the event is specific to California, preferably a reader living in or near* Bellflower, CA, so they and three other family members/friends/acquaintances/frenemies/etc. can enjoy themselves in my place. The tickets are good for every following Friday and Saturday in October, as well as Sunday the 27th and Thursday the 31st.

*near in this case being whatever you as an individual deems the acceptable maximum travel distance to attend this event.

Rules

– In the comments section of THIS article on TFB (and nowhere else) leave a comment on your favorite trick or favorite treat.

– Contest ends at 1600 Zulu on Tuesday, October 8th. The comments will be closed at the deadline.

– Use any nom de guerre you desire but use your real email address as we will use it to contact the winners to request your shipping address; one entry per email, please.

– USA residents only.

– Void where prohibited.

www.giantsportzoutlet.com/shop/haunted-hollywood-sports-c-1_17_58.html

Introducing WildCat

Saturday, October 5th, 2013

Boston Dynamics: building the robot overlord army one noisy, galloping WildCat at a time.

Haunted Hollywood Sports – Media Day Event

Friday, October 4th, 2013

Hollywood Haunted Sports is a yearly event held at the Hollywood Sports Park in Bellflower, Califorinia. The event features:

– Two scare zones: Carnival of the Damned and Outpost Z
– Three killhouses: Zombie Killhouse, Voodoo Killhouse, and Deadman’s Trail Killhouse
– Three walkthrough mazes: Cannibal Caverns, All American Armageddon, and Venom
– Evil Axis Shooting Range
– Suicide Rock climbing wall
– Club Crimson 18+ Vampiric Nightclub
– Group E-Photo Booth

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I was recently invited to the Media Day for Haunted Hollywood Sports. After a brief wait outside, followed by registration and a gift bag, the media personnel were guided into Club Crimson, a Gothic-inspired dining hall and club. Refreshments were served, including, most notably, large syringes full of red Jello shots. The design and atmosphere was top notch, and really invoked the vampiric intent of its namesake.

It was after the refreshment period that the event began in earnest. The coordinators introduced themselves and their contributions and the history of the sports park, the history of Hollywood Haunted Sports, and what activities to expect at the Media Day. The speech was interrupted by a staff member in full tactical gear alerting us to a disturbance, followed by the monsters bursting into the hall. Demented clowns and carnival folk, horrific creatures, and a very persistent zombie flooded into the crowd of tables until more staff in gear with weapons chased them out into the main area.

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After waiting a bit longer, we were ushered outside in groups based on the color of our press passes; my guest and I were blue, so we went out first. We were escorted by a guide brandishing an airsoft weapon and full gear. The path to the attractions was dark and had a carnival motif, at least elements of the ‘Carnival of the Damned’ scare zone if not the entire thing. The aforementioned clowns and carnival workers surrounded us, scraping weapons across the ground and shrieking at our group; I though it was really enjoyable and a bit unnerving.

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Through here we were herded into the ‘Venom’ walkthrough maze, fashioned as an ancient temple full of monsters and snakes. It was quite dark; what light there was came mostly from strobe lights, paired with fog designed to disorient and hide any surprises waiting within. It took about 10 minutes to get through, with frequent scares and disturbing sounds and audio found throughout. I don’t do a lot of Haunt-style activities, but I really enjoyed this one. There was one lizardman who was clearly wearing a mask and would have benefited from blackening his eyes, but the man brandishing machetes, the gas mask goons, and other horrors made up for that one disconnected moment.

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The event open to us was the ‘Zombie Killhouse’. After a brief introduction and some flavor story, we were issued safety masks and airsoft G36s, and sent out to slay the undead. We kept together as a group, rushing through area after area as we shot at the zombies populating the outward graveyard. The weapons were configured to only fire in semi-auto, and with a 50-round capacity there were plenty of shots although my own gun did jam a couple of times. While it wasn’t as tense as the maze, since you were armed and in a group, it was arguably more fun, if only for the increased interactivity.

Overall, I was very satisfied with the sampling of the event we were allowed access to. My only regret is I’m not present to see what other thrills the HSP team has cooked up for the rest of Haunted Hollywood Sports. Coincidentally, today is the first official day of the event, which runs every Friday and Saturday in October, so if you’re in or near Bellflower, CA then give HHS a visit. It’s fun, it’s scary, and you get to shoot at zombies with an airsoft gun; what’s not to like?

www.giantsportzoutlet.com/shop/haunted-hollywood-sports

A very special thanks to paxtondesignstudios for their work on the event and for inviting me out.

DEFCON X Vans Syndicate Digital Camo Collaboration

Friday, October 4th, 2013

Long time collaborators DEFCON and Vans Syndicate have once again partnered up, this time to produce a limited edition set of digital camo shoes featuring “non classified/non ITAR, visually similar versions” of the AOR patterns that have been adopted by the US Navy.

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Sk8-Hi Notchback “S”

The Sk8-Hi Notchback “S” features a reinforced tan Warrior Suede upper. The AOR1-inspired digital desert pattern is printed on ripstop panels. Additional features include the leather side stripe with nylon webbing, the gusseted tongue with Velcro patch, notch back heel, flipped waffle sole for grip, Dri-Lex lining, paracord laces, and a custom DEFCON patch.

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Old Skool “S”

The Old Skool “S” features a black Warrior Suede upper, paired with an AOR2-inspired digital woodland pattern printed on ballistic mesh panels. Additional feature include flipped waffle sole for grip, Dri-Lex lining, and paracord laces. The Old Skool “S” is designed mainly for skating.

DEFCON is a frequent collaborator with Vans Syndicate. They started their camouflage shoes packs in the mid 2000s and were the first in footwear to work with Crye Precision directly for a MultiCam shoe. www.defcongroup.com/

The Vans Syndicate line offers limited edition products available mainly through skate shops and specialty boutiques. A full listing of Syndicate licensed stores in your area can be found at www.vanssyndicate.com/

PDT Intros Force 1 Helmet To Airsoft Market

Thursday, October 3rd, 2013

Force 1 helmet

ALAMO, Calif. – October 3, 2013 – Practical Defense Training Technologies (PDT) today announced the availability of its Force 1 Helmet to the Airsoft market. Previously, PDT products have been available exclusively to the military and law enforcement communities for non-lethal training ammunition (NLTA) engagements. With its broad market release, civilian Airsoft enthusiasts can now access military-grade helmets that provide the ultimate fit, form and function.

The Force 1 helmet incorporates a full face mask to provide superior impact protection. PDT engineered proper ventilation characteristics into every aspect of the helmet and utilizes proprietary anti-fogging dual lens technology to create true no-fog head armor. Fogging is largely a ventilation issue that results from helmet designs, coupled with the fact that most lower-end helmets use a single lens polycarbonate. Much like dual pane windows, PDT’s anti-fogging dual lens helps mitigate the two temperature extremes (hotter inside, colder outside) that cause fogging. This ensures maximum visibility and peripheral vision for a true-to-life kinetic experience during Airsoft engagements.

“Head armor affects performance, as it directly affects the application of senses most closely associated with combative skill development – sight, sound and feel,” said Gordon Potter, a 15-year U.S. Army Special Forces veteran and president of PDT Technologies. “Bulky and restrictive designs can obstruct visibility and peripheral vision. PDT’s sleek helmet design supports the user’s sense of feel to weapon system feature manipulation and employment. Our goal is to keep people safe by preventing, minimizing or eliminating personal injury. We are proud to make this level of personal protective equipment available to the civilian market, while continuing to support military and law enforcement applications of Airsoft for training purposes.”

“There are a lot of people using Airsoft out there right now,” said Ken Murray, Director of Training, Armiger Police Training Institute and Co-Founder of SIMUNITION®. “Airsoft can embed in your skin, knock out your teeth, and certainly destroy your eyes. People say one of the advantages of Airsoft is that you don’t need all this personal protective equipment. They’re absolutely wrong. In my opinion, if you’re going to be conducting Airsoft training, you should use the same level of protective gear as that used for conventional marketing cartridges. I’m a big fan of PDT’s gear. From the helmet to the neck protector and protective hood, this is just the top gear on the planet. PDT is certainly the best helmet that I’ve seen in the market. The first and foremost feature is that this thing just does not fog. I can always see clearly through this helmet. It’s also very comfortable and non-claustrophobic.”

Conducting Airsoft training or recreation without the use of proper protective equipment can result in serious injuries, with the eyes, ears, face and neck being most prone to projectile strikes. PDT’s helmet is made from resilient molded mask parts that offer superior impact protection. A durable mesh cover in the lower mask prevents projectiles from passing through and promotes optimal airflow. A rubber goggle frame with soft gaskets fits comfortably against the face. Backside padded head protection is made from durable rip stop nylon material, and perforated ear cover protection prevents loss of audibility. When used in conjunction with PDT’s neck armor and padded hood, the Force 1 helmet ensures complete impact protection with no skin exposure. The Force 1 Helmet is also constructed of closed-cell, low density polymer materials that do not absorb moisture, making it easier to wipe and clean for multi-person use.

Regularly priced at $98.95, the Force 1 helmet is currently on sale for the special price of $79.95. PDT also offers a full line of personal protective equipment for Airsoft users, including padded hoods, hand armor, and chest, neck and groin protectors. Items can be purchased individually, or users can take advantage of the PDT Go Bag, which includes a full set of PPE and a marking knife for close quarters combat training, in PDT’s signature duffel bag. For more information or to purchase, please call (925) 708-1212 or visit www.pdt-tech.com.

Call Of Duty Mega Bloks – Mini Review

Thursday, October 3rd, 2013

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We purchased and constructed the Chopper Strike, RIB Beach Assault, and Mountain Recon Call of Duty Mega Bloks sets. The three sets were fairly easy to put together, although the Chopper Strike set was missing a couple of critical parts and required some workarounds to build up. The “super poseable micro action figures” are also a bit of a pain to snap together, and they come loose easily when handled, especially at the torso/leg joint. It’s pretty cool, however, how detailed they can be, with all the gear options they can be equipped with. Also, the faux-M4s the figures come with can swap magazines, stocks, and barrels, and can be further accessorized with scopes and suppressors.

Overall, I would have preferred the sets had more of a LEGO-level quality to them, given they are Mega Bloks brand, but if you like your building block sets with a more military oriented focus, then these aren’t a bad option.

www.megabloks.com/en-us/shop/construction-toys/call-of-duty/?view=list

Russo-Japanese War Propaganda (NSFW)

Thursday, October 3rd, 2013

Turns out there’s some interesting Japanese propaganda art from the Russo-Japanese war, done in the Shunga style. FYI, if you don’t know what Shunga is, there’s a reason the image is hidden…

Hat tip: Reddit

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The Secret History Of Eugene Stoner And The M16

Wednesday, October 2nd, 2013

This post on M4Carbine.net details the secret history of the M16, the use of 5.56x45mm, and even Russia’s switch to 5.45x39mm. I won’t spoil it for you, but it does explain quite a bit.

The Mountain – Combat Stryker T-Shirt

Wednesday, October 2nd, 2013

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Billed as ‘America’s Greenest T-Shirt Company’, The Mountain has for sale this Combat Stryker shirt, which depicts a bald eagle in flight gear with Old Glory waving triumphantly in the rear while fighter jets climb towards the sky.

shop.themountain.me/combat-stryker-t-shirt/

Covert Force Extreme Tactical Gear – Tactical Helmet

Tuesday, October 1st, 2013

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The Covert Force Tactical Helmet is nothing more than a toy, but a pretty cool one all the same. It features the “CLIP TRAK” system, which lets the user attach a number of accessories including a helmet scope, night scope, and light to the helmet. The package also includes a collectable dog tag and ‘top secret mission’ which includes an online code for a website unlockable. The only issue with the model we got is the straps were threaded through the buckles wrong and sewn together, so it was impossible to properly adjust them without taking the stitching apart, but it’s just a toy.

www.toysrus.com/product/index.jsp?productId=20599336&cp=&parentPage=search

Need For Speed Trailer

Tuesday, October 1st, 2013

Synopsis: Jessie Pinkman drives fast cars and gets into trouble in this movie based on a best selling video game series. Also, cannot confirm if meth is in the film.

In Inside Look At Independent Studio Services

Monday, September 30th, 2013

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Located in an unassuming suburb of Los Angeles, the Independent Studio Services warehouse holds thousands of props from hundreds of movies, television shows, etc.; they’re the largest prop supplier in the USA. What drew my interest the most, understandably, was the armory, from which ISS supplies most of the firearms you see in modern movies and television shows. Check out the gallery down below.

issprops.com/

Thanks to Tactical SMGLee!

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PTS RM4 ERG

Monday, September 30th, 2013

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The PTS RM4 ERG series represents the continued evolution of the AEG. The guns feature a mechanical/electrical cut-off with the last round fired, functional bolt release, and simulated recoil via the proprietary Kinetic Feedback System.

The included ERG PMAG is specifically designed to work with the auto cut-off system, and can be adjusted for either a 60 or 30 round capacity for added realism. Standard AEG magazines are also compatible with the RM4 ERG guns, although the auto cut-off feature won’t be active with these.

Further adding to the realism of the RM4 ERG series, the guns sport an all metal billet-style AR-15 receiver, flip-up rear PTS MBUS, fixed front sight post, PTS MOE handguard, PTS MOE pistol grip, and PTS MOE Stock.

The model seen in the images, and currently available, is the Scout; a CQB variant will be released at a later date.

www.ptssyndicate.com/

AEX – PTS RM4 ERG Scout

Gerber Gear Round Up – GDC Zip Blade

Sunday, September 29th, 2013

Gerber gear offers a selection of knives, flashlights, belts, and other survival tools for the outdoorsman. We purchased a small variety of Gerber survival tools, and put them to the test with our own weekend warriors, our three Boy Scouts. The rules were simple. They could select any of the products that wanted but had to write about their impressions.

Each week, we’ll feature a new Gerber product review written by one of the Scouts.

GDC Zip Blade

The Gerber Gear GDC (Gerber Daily Carry) Zip Blade features a 7CR17 steel blade with a length of .68″. A frame lock mechanism locks the blade into place when deployed. The body of the Zip Blade is made of 3CR13 steel. The zipper attachment features a clip for quick removal.

I like the GDC Zip Blade because it feels solid. The blade is small but useful, and comes out easily enough. The frame lock isn’t too tough to push down when I needed to store the blade. I also liked the clip because I could remove the zip quickly if I needed the blade. I think it works best as a backup if you already have a bigger knife with you.

www.gerbergear.com/Essentials/Knives/Zip-Blade_31-001742

By Isiah Tubbs

Attempted Robbery At Mercury Service Station

Sunday, September 29th, 2013

A shop owner in the UK fought off two attempted robbers, one of which was brandishing a knife, with a shoe and a jar.

First Official Still From Transformers: Age Of Extinction

Saturday, September 28th, 2013

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Got it off Reddit.

Custom MultiCam And Leather Jacket

Saturday, September 28th, 2013

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While I was at AEX – Airsoft Extreme in Torrance, CA, director Mike Ho happened to be in the shop sporting a custom-made MultiCam jacket with leather sleeves.

www.oneshotmike.com

Strike Industries – J-Comp Type 89 Compensator

Friday, September 27th, 2013

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The Strike Industries J-Comp is based on the compensator used on the Japanese Self-Defense Force’s Type 89 assault rifle. It utilizes a double chamber system and six ported side vents; the front ports act to minimize flash from the muzzle allowing for fast follow up shots. It’s constructed from parkerized steel with a black finish. It’s also long enough to lengthen a 14.5″ to 16″. Available for .223/5.56x45mm, although there’s also mention of .308/7.62x51mm and 7.62x39mm models.

strikeindustries.com/shop/index.php/rifle-enhancements/ar15-platform/muzzle-brake-compensator/japan-type89-comp.html

Intelligent Armour Lightweight Combat Belt + TFB Patches Giveaway Is Now Over

Friday, September 27th, 2013

I hope you got your entries in when you could because the Intelligent Armour belt + patch giveaway is now over. The winners will be contacted on Monday; good luck everyone!

Wrong Gear – Warrior Mask

Friday, September 27th, 2013

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Wrong Gear’s Warrior Masks are deeply inspired by the Arabian shemagh. They’re made of light weight 100% cotton with a polyester nose mesh area to wick away moisture and allow unrestricted breathing. Warrior Masks feature a high thread count and tight knit with custom colors specially made for Wrong Gear. The masks strap on using Velcro hook and loop. The versatility of Warrior Masks means they can be used as a face veil, sunshade/sand/dust cover, neck warmer, sweat mop, dust wipe, field towel, foot wrap, short rope, emergency bandage material, etc.

They’re hand cut and sewn in Los Angeles, and no two masks are exactly alike.

www.wronggear.com/2013/content/wgc01.html

www.airsoftextreme.com/store/ – Warrior Mask

Go Joe!

Thursday, September 26th, 2013

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Thanks to Tactical Pro Shop!

Size Comparison – Science Fiction Spaceships

Thursday, September 26th, 2013

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DeviantArtist ~DirkLoechel created this chart detailing size comparisons of spaceships from multiple science fiction properties. The chart is constantly expanding, so if a favorite series isn’t present it might show up later.

dirkloechel.deviantart.com/art/Size-Comparison-Science-Fiction-spaceships-398790051

Personal Navigation Devices In The 20’s and 30’s

Wednesday, September 25th, 2013

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An article on GIS Lounge shows that people developed personal navigation devices way before GPS was possible. For example, the Italian Iter-Auto, the first in-vehicle personal navigation device, featured a scrolling map hooked up to a speedometer so that the location of the motorist on the map was more or less accurate to their actual location.

You can check out the full article at GIS Lounge.

DragonCon Carpet Camouflage Maker Sent Cease And Desist Order

Wednesday, September 25th, 2013

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Volpin Props, the company of the guy who made the above carpet camo costumes for this year’s DragonCon, was issued a cease and desist order by carpet company Couristan Inc over the use of its pattern. Now, before anyone claims how ridiculous this is, Volpin Props attempted to sell the pattern on print-on-demand service Spoonflower for future DragonCon cosplayers, or anyone else, to use, which would amount to one company making money off another’s intellectual property. Volpin completely agreed that Couristan has every right to defend their intellectual property, only finding it strange that after years of replicating weapons and artifacts from video games in prop form that a carpet company would be the first to send him a C&D.

Hat Tip: io9.com

Bacon Spatula?

Tuesday, September 24th, 2013

GIR-Bacon-Spatula

Obviously, it’s not a spatula made of bacon, but rather a spatula patterned to look like bacon; kitchen camouflage if you will.

It’s part of the ‘GIR: Get It Done’ line of spatulas, kitchenware made for men. Here’s what the creator had to say about them:

“They are unibody silicone, and indestructible. There is a pro size that can legitimately knock someone out if you hit them on the head with it (field-tested).”

The line is currently up on Kickstarter, where enough funding will result in spatulas in all sorts of colors, including the bacon pattern, and sizes mini, skinny, ultimate, and pro.

www.kickstarter.com/projects/productofgir/gir-spatula-mini-skinny-pro