The Tactical Camera Assault Long Range Stock (TALCS) was intended to be one of the corner stones of THE TACTIPRIL but due to logistical difficulties we were not able to get a working model from Miso Studios Heavy Industries (MSHI) until very late in the month. When the TALCS arrived we had to get the range trip set up and chose a lovely spot in the Canadian wilderness where we could try the unit in secret. Although there was some confusion involving paperwork relating to the importation of a Tactical Assault device, we were able to bring the TALCS out for a proper daylight trial and are therefore offering our readers an exclusive look at its features and construction.




The TALCS trigger uses a three-contact switch that acts as a two stage trigger of sorts. First the operator takes up the initial slack which activates the auto focus. Once focus has been achieved, the next stage of the trigger activates the shutter. There are some ergonomics issues with this setup due to the position of the large auto focus (AF) assist light and the routing of the AF assist light's pressure pad to the panning pistol grip.

One advantage of the TALCS trigger setup is that it allows left handed users to more easily and naturally fire the camera using their dominant hand and eye to control the release of the shutter.

When entering dark areas in a tactical environment the integrated auto focus assist is not always enough to to allow the lens to focus. The use of the pressure pad allows the operator to activate the light when he feels the need for additional illumination. This light can also be used to supplement ambient light in photographs and as a general purpose combat illumination device.

Occasionally the operator may find himself using a tripod with a ball head. The addition of the horizontal pistol grip allows the operator smoother and more precise panning while tracking a target. This is particularly useful when tracking moving objects in low light as the the grip helps minimize vertical motion distortion, and allowing the operator to concentrate on the horizontal axis.

Due to the nature of many tactical environments, ready access to one's gear is a matter of life and death; therefore, the designers of the TALCS incorporated two sling swivels to better allow operator to choose the sling system that best suits their needs in the environment that they operate in. In the demonstration camera the TALCS is seen using the 'single point classic' which drops the entire unit down the operator's center line and allows him to better access a side arm or other kit in an emergency. This sling system also allows for easier vehicle entry and departure while engaged in mechanized operations.



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