While there are undoubtedly scores and scores of cool kit there, we’ve previewed a couple of new products that will be featured on the Sands showroom floor. Most of the listed items will be more extensively covered in following posts, but we thought you earned a little sneak peek. Follow us on Twitter and Facebook for daily updates.

[Let us at that tactical goodness! We'll be as excited as this kid... but for gear of course. Not taffy. Scratch that. We want taffy too.]

Clothing

Blackhawk will be debuting its new women’s line at the show. Tailored to the needs of female operators, the apparel includes antimicrobial and compression technologies to provide exceptional training options for the gym or that next training session. Stylish and functional, Blackhawk will be producing these pants and tops in wrinkle-resistant and moisture-wicking fabrics.

Hyde Definition will be featuring its Snowdrift camouflage. Specifically made for snow-covered terrain, it uses a three-color variant of the PenCott family of patterns. It has a naturalistic omni-directional, multi-scalar fractal geometry pattern and a unique 3-in-1 pattern design for superior blending and disruption performance. It’s now in production and will be available in early 2012.

Smith & Wesson will be unveiling its first try at consumer apparel. Embracing the idea of the rugged American heritage, the men and women’s lines will provide a functional and stylish way to conceal carry. Jackets will have internal pockets that could carry a firearm or an iPhone. The pants have wider belt loops specifically positioned for a holster. They will be teaming with Wild Things to bring style, function and innovation to conceal carry clothing.

[All Terrain Tiger pattern by Tiger Strip Products from the Tru-Spec line.]

Tru-Spec will debut a full line of products in the new All Terrain Tiger (ATT) pattern from Tiger Stripe Products. Products will include TRU Jacket, TRU Trouser, Ranger Cap, Boonie Hat, Combat Shirt, Extreme Tru Jacket, Extreme Tru Trouser and Extreme Combat Shirt.

Footwear

Original S.W.A.T. will be launching its new product line: Chase Series of Tactical Footwear! The line features the latest technology with an outsole that is more slip-resistant, durable and comfortable. Every boot in the Chase Series incorporates PORON cushioning pads for all day comfort and a quieter, more stealth outsole.

Rockport Works will be showcasing its First Advantage tactical boots. The boots are engineered with adiPRENE, which is a performance technology that helps absorb shock and provide more energy rebound. Featuring a composite toe, the boots are available in an eight-inch and six-inch version. These will be purchasable by early 2012.

[Pictured is the Hybrid Hiker.]

Wellco will be featuring three boots—the Hot Weather Combat Hiker, the Hybrid Hiker and Hot Weather Gen II Jungle Boot.

• The Hot Weather Combat Hiker is constructed for harsh environments and built to maneuver easily through mountainous terrain. It features a custom Vibram multi-terrain outsole and a breathable upper to ensure feet stay dry.
• The Hybrid Hiker can take a beating; it has a Kevlar-based nylon upper and sharkskin toe cap and heel counter for added durability. Waterproof, yet breathable, it also has a Vibram multi-terrain outsole with rugged lightweight midsole.
• Wellco’s Hot Weather Gen II Jungle Boot provides a well-balanced, lightweight and breathable footwear option. Similar to the original Jungle Boot, it is constructed to withstand intense hot weather climates while providing superior comfort.

Gear / Weaponry

Benchmade’s new Adamas features D2 blade steel and is available as a folder or fixed blade.

• 275 Folder ($195) has an AXIS locking mechanism and ambidextrous thumb studs. The blade is .16 inches thick 3.82 inches long (overall length of 8.70 inches). It weighs 7.70 ounces. The  optional sheath adds 1.5 ounces.
• 375 Fixed ($140)has a skeletonized handle construction with drop-point blade style with serrations on the spine. Measuring an overall length of 9.03 inches, the blade measures 4.20 inches long. It weighs just 5.60 ounces (5.77 ounces with injection molded sheath).

Gerber will be previewing both the Remix Tactical ($37) and the Sight Tool ($95), which will be available for purchase in February 2012.

• The Remix Tactical has a blade that is three inches long, with an overall length of 7.86 inches. An ideal candidate for everyday carry, the tip-tip pocket carrier is tactically designed. The newly designed thumb lift provides stability and safety while cutting and allows for easy one-handed opening. The handle is made of lightweight G-10 composite.
• The MP600 Sight Tool (or MP600 ST) features the same one-handed opening technology as the original MP600. However, it includes a longer Phillips driver, a combined serrated and fine edge blade, a carbon scraper for weapons maintenance and a newly designed, super-durable front site adjustment tool for M4 / M16 variant firearms. The multi-tool has a closed length of 5.04 inches and weighs 8.2 ounces. It comes with a Berry Compliant sheath with MOLLE and belt attachment.

STORY: SHOT Show 2011 Day Three Videos + Tweets

Luminox will be showcasing a number of its popular tactical timepieces. Among them will be models: A.3001.BO, A.8821.KM, A.3041 and A.3042.

• The A.3001.BO (Original Navy SEAL 3000 Series) has a 43 millimeter diameter. It’s water resistant up to 200 meters, has a battery life of 50 months and is PC carbon reinforced case.
• The A.8821.KM (Recon Pointman Series) has a 45 millimeter diameter. Again it’s water resistant up to 200 meters and has a battery life up to 60 months. Its face is made of sapphire glass with an anti-reflective coating.
• Boasting a constant glow for up to 25 years, the A.3041 (black/green on green) and A.3042 (green black on green black) each have a 44 millimeter diameter. The face is made of a hardened mineral glass. It has a water resistance up to 200 meters. These two watches come from the OD Military 3040 Series.

Condor Tool and Knife‘s new products will include the Dynasty Dadao Sword and the Garuda Knife. The Dynasty Dadao Sword is made of 1075 high carbon steel with a natural blade finish hardwood handle. Measuring 21¼ inches long, the blade easily fits in its leather sheath. A bit smaller, the Garuda has a five-inch long carbon steel blade topped with an epoxy black powder coating. It comes with a ballistic nylon sheath.

What’s the word on the street? What tactical gear delights are you most looking forward to at SHOT Show 2012?

Without further ado, we bring to you (in no particular order) 12 tactical resolutions for 2012.

1.) Blindfolded Field Strip

 So you know how to break down your choice gun… Can you do it blindfolded? Only a true maestro of all that is badass can pull this off (or someone with a lot of time on his hands).

2.) Learn Karate

Yeah, if you want to top the tactical charts, you’ll need to have some killer hand-to-hand combat skills. Not so fond of the karate? We suppose you could learn another style of H2H combat, but none are as Chuck Norris approved.

3.) Get Pumped About Protein

Ok, so you’re a one man (or woman) army. To ensure that machine of a body stays well-oiled, chow down on eggs, lean meats or other foods high in protein. Consuming this particular food group is well advised for those looking to get pumped up.

4.) Time on the Range

Make more time for the range. We know you’re busy, but take a day here and there to practice shooting. Become one with your blessed firearm, kemosabe.

5.) Maverick It Up

Nothing quite puts people at ease than the Maverick thumbs up. A weak, halfhearted hand signal can lead to doubt and possibly even bouts of pandemonium. Spend five to ten minutes a week perfecting your own in mirror.

6.) Importance of Pockets

You need tons of pockets for storage. Buy pocket-friendly pants, vests and shirts. This particular resolution will make more sense at number 10.

[Image via AP]

7.) Master Rappelling

Some days you rappel and some days you don’t. Yet, every supremely tactical gentleman and gentlewoman should master the art of climbing down the side of a building.

8.) Rosetta Stone or Bust

English is a popular language. However, that doesn’t mean that you should remain monolingual. Brush up on that high school knowledge or learn an entirely new one. Did James Bond only know one language? No, he was fluent in tons. Check and mate.

STORY: 13 Awesomely Tactical Movies

9.) Simplify Equipment

Is that tactically overloaded rifle slowing you down? Your modifications shouldn’t cost more than your beloved AK-47 (or that AR-15). Stick with the essential add-ons in 2012.

[Image via The Everyday Carry Blog]

10.) EDC Like a Boss

We might have mentioned going the simple route with gun mods. Yet, your everyday carry needs might need some expanding. We can’t all be MacGyvers. If your pockets can hold it, pack it unless it’s explicitly forbidden by any laws.

11.) Prepare

The Mayans predicted 2012 to be the end of days. Honestly, we don’t subscribe to all that calendar mumbo jumbo… but we do believe in the impending virus/plague outbreak. Hello, the Black Death was a thing. That bountiful canned good and bottle water supply can go a long way. Also, a secret safe room will come in handy.

[Image via Yell Magazine] 

12.) Conquer a Fear

Stare down a fear or three this year. It doesn’t have to be as magnanimous as saving an old lady from a burning building or crazy as climbing a rope ladder in shark-infested waters. Although those are pretty cool, it can be something small like not wearing flip flops in the gym shower. No, don’t do that—that’s just nasty. Well, we think you get the point. Sally forth!

What’s your most tactical resolution for 2012? 

Big things don’t always come in small packages. Although “mini” seems to be trending, this Cast Boolits member believes in the old adage, “Bigger is Better.” Or is that the Texas state motto?

Whatever the case, he made the ginormous .700 WTF, which looks like it could easily take down a large carnivore (or herbivore, we don’t discriminate here). The guys over at The Firearm Blog even jokingly predicted it could end something from the Jurassic Period. Hmm… To Catch a Dinosaur—that would be a reality show worth watching.

In all seriousness, he created the cartridge by fire forming a .50 BMG brass case and trimming it to its three-inch length. He then loaded the round with 1132 grain paper patched .700 lead cast bullet. But what good is this gargantuan masterpiece if there isn’t a way to use it?

It is reported that he designed this rifle and made all of its components, save for the barrel. When fired, it can send the .700 WTF straight through a 1/4-inch steel plate. Like butter.

Sadly, it does not appear that this will be available for purchase. At least you have something to dream about tonight…

How much would you pay to fire off a few of these rounds?

Gerber is offering you the chance to order the Apocalypse Kit ($349). Only 200 are available and they will ship on Dec. 5, 2011.

“Enclosed in a super durable canvas carrying case with reinforced stitching, the kit is compact and packable,” reads the Gerber site. “To beat the uprising we must work together. We must arm ourselves and organize.”

STORY: TacticalGear.com’s Zombie Survival Gear Guide

The kit features seven survival tools, including the Gator Machete, Camp Axe II, Gator Machete Pro, Parang, LMF II Infantry, DMF Folder and Epic. The equipment is stored in a durable canvas case, which can be rolled up for easy transportation. The stud buttons keep the case closed and the reinforced stitching provide extra durability.

WWRGD: What would Rick Grimes do?

Here’s a little background on Norm. He has over 15 years of experience within the computer industry. Well traveled, he is an avid camper and backpacker and enjoys hiking, climbing and many other outdoor activities. In addition to his enthusiasm for gun and gear, he understands the technology behind many of the tactical tools out there.

The founders of KGGG are committed to providing thorough reviews that are easy to understand and straight to the point.

[Camping lakeside. Just the kind of environment that Norm and his reviewers are comfortable with. via Wiki Commons]

“If we review a product and don’t think it’s worth the time or money, we’re going to tell you. If we think it’s worth using as something other than intended, we’ll tell you that as well. If it outperforms everything else, we’ll bring you the low down,” reads their official press release.

The reviewers come from a variety of backgrounds—combined they have experience in information technology and security, law enforcement, physical security and protection, gaming, photography, backpacking, camping, hiking, climbing, industrial construction and engineering, hunting and fishing. They also have quite a bit of knowledge in the area of DIY repairs.

While home base is Pennsylvania, they have traveled extensively, both in the United States and to foreign countries. Experienced excursionists, they transfer this wisdom into their reviews. So far they have written about items such as Magnus broadheads, Princeton Tec MPLS (mounted personal light) and the Shark Pack wallet.

Still a relatively young gear review website, they are accepting gear and apparel of all styles. 

Costa is the founder/president and director of training for Magpul.

 Here’s the full statement released from Mapul:

Since 2007, Magpul Dynamics has trained thousands of professional and civilian shooters, and reached countless more through a comprehensive collection of instructional DVDs.  With an emphasis on real world techniques, consistency, and efficiency, Magpul Dynamics has brought tactical instruction to the forefront of the shooting community.  The application of these philosophies to high quality multimedia productions has helped propel the entire firearms training industry to new heights, garnering the attention of a larger audience than ever before.

STORY: Panteao Productions Showcases Firearms Instructors

The entire instructor cadre has been instrumental in the success of these endeavors, not the least of which has been Chris Costa.  Chris will be moving on in early 2012 to pursue new projects within the industry, including his own training company. Magpul will continue to explore future opportunities to work with Chris, and looks forward to these projects. It has been a privilege to work with Chris for the last five years, and Magpul wishes him the best of luck in the future. The fundamentals of Reality, Consistency, and Efficiency that Chris helped instill are central to the entire Magpul Dynamics instructor cadre, and will continue to drive their training philosophy and mindset.

As more information about Costa Ludus becomes available, we’ll post a follow up story. 

Keeping in the pink spirit of October, we decided to hold a contest for the ladies. The prize you ask? Since there are more and more female gun enthusiasts out there, we decided that it should be a pink range bag from Bang Bang Boutique (pictured below).

All you have to do is comment below with your best survivor quote. Do you have a personal mantra? Share it with us and it could win you this chic piece of shooting gear.

There are just a few guidelines. You must be 18 and a U.S. resident. Also, all quotes have to be approved, so it might take a day for it to appear underneath this post. The deadline to enter is Nov. 22, 2011. We’ll be picking the winning quote and announcing the winner through our Facebook and Twitter accounts.

Kim Bortz, Bang Bang Boutique owner, explained that her passion for guns all started with a day at the range in January 2004. That was the very first time she fired one. And she discovered that she was a pretty good shot.

From that point on, she was hooked.

STORY: 20 Awesome Pink Guns & Accessories

However, soon she realized that there was a distinct lack of shooting accessories tailored for women. “It seemed like my only choice was to suck it up and be one of the guys,” shares Kim.

But then inspiration hit. Coming across a lavender range bag, she decided that there had to more stuff out there for the markswoman. “Not just stuff that was girly, but stuff made for women’s specific needs. Shooting doesn’t need to be masculine – it can have a feminine side too,” she says.

So she started Bang Bang Boutique, an online store dedicated to serving the needs of the lady shooter.

This one is for the girls. Enter by Nov. 22, 2011 to win a pink range bag. 

[The infamous Thursday TacticalGear.com Facebook picture.]

On Thursday, we stumbled across a particular kind of yard sign. A year or two old, it has circulated through a number of forums since its creation. Anyhow, we decided to post it to Facebook. There, it garnered quite a bit of attention AND discussion.

So we decided to research more into yard signs—both for your edification and our own curiosity. Listed below are signs that are ridiculously funny, scary, painfully honest and somewhere between the three.

One thing is for sure… if you have perpetually sticky fingers, just walk on past these homes. Any burglarizing will not end well for you.

[Via Image Shack]

Ahhh… the tell-it-like-it-is sign. You’re most likely to see this good ol’ boy on the property lines of more rural homesteads. Hope you illiterate trespassers know how to make like a possum (that means play dead for those unfamiliar with the animal kingdom).

[Via this Signazon.com]

Straight from the Front Sight Firearms Training Institute, this sign may not favor the humorous side of life, but it is does put an elegant spin on the traditional I-will-shoot-you-if-you-break-in-here sign.

[Via Lol Zombie]

It seems everyone is on medication these days. Even Fido has panic attacks from time to time. He also appears to have learned how to fire a gun without opposable thumbs. Well done poochy.

[Via Smosh Pit]

Jurassic Park called and they want their sign back.

[Via this blog]

Possibly the product of a Photoshop effort, this poster pulls double duty. It simultaneously makes fun of honor student bumper stickers and warns off would-be criminals.

[Via Squidoo.com]

Just turn around if you see this notice. This will most likely be a close encounter with an individual you’ll want to forget.

[Via Free Jokes]

Either the creator of this sign is a genius chemist or a master of deception. Whatever the case, it’s clear this is a no trespassing zone.

[Via Flickr.com]

This military branch doesn’t mess around when they post signs. Word.

[Via Revenge Shop]

Halloween is right around the corner, so why not invest in a more spiritual form of home protection. Dogs are so last year, why not purchase an attack ghost?

[Via Photobucket]

Everyone knows bipeds can’t be trusted…

A sign after every gun enthusiast’s heart.

What the some of the most outrageously worded signs you’ve seen?

The city council had decided to not take action on the matter, although Blade Magazine suggested that the ordinance may be drafted and presented to the council on the whole within a matter of weeks.

According to the Dorchester Reporter, police officials have voiced their support for the stricter requirements, including Mark Gillespie, lieutenant detective for the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority.

In addition to stating that knives are “the weapon of choice of youth,” Gillespie reported that MBTA police had confiscated approximately 32 of them from teenagers under 16 years old over the course of a year. “These will put a chill in you when they take it out of their pocket,” he said. “These are not small knives.”

Story – All Things Self-Defense: Q&A with the Real Vic

Speaking on behalf of both Knife Rights and the Gun Owners’ Action League (GOAL) was Jim Wallace, GOAL executive director.

“I urge the City Council to review what it is about to do and reflect on the failures of gun control,” said Wallace. “Over a decade ago I had to testify before committees in the state house with grieving families in the background. Now I sit before you a decade later with grieving families behind me again. If you proceed down this path and get it wrong again, ten years from now we will likely repeat this scene yet again.”

Ordinances like this one are passed fewer and fewer stores will sell knives. It results in higher costs associated with added licenses. For better or for worse, you might have to spend a little more time searching for that knife. And there’s always the online retailer. Blackhawk blades are available ranging from $40 to $150. There’s an option even for those on a budget.

What do you think of increasing regulations on knife sales?

Enter the SpeedFreek. Hitting the market early last month, the long-awaited boot has begun to gain positive feedback. But what kind of technologies went into its construction? Under Armour’s director of outdoor marketing, Bryan Offutt, was kind enough to answer some of our questions about their newest tactical addition.

How long was the boot in production?

The boots have been available online and in retail stores since August 1, however the development process was about a year and a half. Our testing process is very in-depth. We sent boots to our key athletes and target consumers in the field.  They reviewed the boots for fit, durability, and evaluate the technical features in both daily usage and in extreme conditions and terrain.

Based on the feedback and discussions with the wear-testing team, we then make additional test samples to adjust for any issues that arise. As we make our final revisions, we test the pre-production boots for Final Fit confirmation before we sign off on the development process. As you can see, these boots have gone through the ringer for testing and the process is meant to ensure that Under Armour delivers best-in-class product every time.

Prior to its release, was the Speed Freek wear tested?

The SpeedFreek along with the Tactical Breech Boot and Tactical Valsetz Boot, were wear tested with America’s elite in both the military and federal law enforcement sectors. We do our best to expose all of our products to the most extreme environments prior to bringing anything to market to ensure that we deliver product that meets Under Armour’s standards and the needs of those who will utilize it.

What specific features make the Speed Freek so lightweight?

Our EVA midsole unit saves a lot of weight compared to PU units that others use. We also use pig suede leather on the boot upper to reduce weight and maintain high abrasion. The outsoles also have rubber removed in key areas to keep the boot lightweight but still supportive.

Could you describe the composition of the outsole in greater detail?

The forefoot features an additional Push Through Protection plate to help with puncture protection in rugged environments.  In the arch we have relieved the outsole to save some weight and have the EVA visible. The lugs are self cleaning and provide excellent traction across varied terrain.

Will it be available in other colors?

The SpeedFreek is currently only offered in Black and MultiCam for the tactical end-user, however other patterns are offered to the Hunt consumer (pictured above).

What kind of midsole/support does it have?

The EVA midsole features a nylon shank which provides support and less weight than a typical steel unit.

“The SpeedFreek has an aggressive sole designed to provide superior traction in all terrains and climates from the hottest desert to the coldest mountain,” said Offutt. “Some of the most elite in military and law enforcement have put this boot to the test and Under Armour is proud to deliver such a high-caliber product built to perform in the toughest of environments.”

In addition, its Gore-Tex construction keeps feet and ankles dry, as well as well-supported and protected.