Well, the Shot Show 2008 in Las Vegas ended yesterday, and hopefully those who attended the event (we didn't), were able to post photos of interesting products. There were lots of interesting developments at the show,  and many manufacturers from the defense, law enforcement, and airsoft industries attended and had their own booths. Mad Bull Airsoft was there to display their wares, as well as King Arms and those venerable manufacturers from Japan.

One thing that we were interested in was the release of the Aimpoint Concealed Engagement System, Aimpoint's answer to the Corner Shot system that was developed by two Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) veterans. While the Corner Shot gives you a video view of the opposing force hiding at the corner, enabling you to engage without exposing yourself, Aimpoint's product allows you to do the same, and cheaper.

The Concealed Engagement System is actually a periscope magnifier-type that you can attach to RIS/RAS rails enabling you to peek into corners with your rifle, but minimising exposure of your body. Thus, you do not have to put a more expensive monitor system, another weapon such as a pistol, which the Corner Shot requires, to engage the enemy in tight quarters. Aimpoint's approach is simple and as effective as the corner shot. Although there is already a similar system called the Off Axis Viewing Device (OAVD, picture below), it was mainly developed for the Australian Armed Forces. Also there is that Urban Parascope unit that serves the same purpose.

Now, for those who have given up on waiting for a Corner Shot airsoft replica, you can settle with this. The technology is straightforward and I will not be surprised of G&P or King Arms would start making a similar product soon enough. Now this is good for any skirmish, especially for CQC, you don't need to fire in a corner without being called for violating the "No Blind Firing" rule. Zombies beware!

Another thing is the BE Meyers' LA-4/PEQ green infrared illuminator pointer which can help you paint targets as far as 67 kilometers away (Huuuwwwaaattt??? That far eh?). While it may not for airsoft use, even a replica of this for airsoft use (as a battery case) would be just as fantastic to have. Sales of this product is just limited to the US Defense Department. But 67 kilometers of sheer targeting pleasure is just awesome.

In terms of actual airsoft products, Classic Army featured its latest Sportline and Proline models, while Mad Bull unveiled the TDI KRISS airsoft prototype.  And here's one for pistol packers to love, the PistolCam... "PistolCam®, with its patented AUTO-ON technology records 60 minutes of video documentation. Using MPEG4 imaging technology, PistolCam automatically records 60 minutes of DVD quality video with sound when an officer’s handgun is removed from the holster. PistolCam is integrated with an Ultra-High Intensity Tactical Illuminator and Targeting Laser."

Another that you may want to see an airsoft version is the Sabre Defense M5 Tactical... "The M5 Tactical available in 5.56mm, 6.5 Grendel, or 7.62 x 39 is complete for the tactical shooter. Legal for civilians, it has the appearance of a SBR. The rifle features 14.5” Barrel with permently attached A2 flashhider, 1:7 twist CMV with a mid-length gas system, railed handguard, CTR stock, ergo grip and EO Tech 552."

Now here's another one, the ICU System... "The First Multidirectional Surveillance and Targetting AIRSOFT/PAINTBALL SYSTEM! The patented ICU mirrors allow its user to view around,under and over obstacles. Clear rooms, calculate attacks and communicate with your team effectively without exposing your face and body to attacks!" Here's a video of their product.

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And last but not the least, one blogger just made an award for the "The Stupidest Thing at the Shot Show 2008". If you're curious on what it is, better click here.