Decal Grip

I've been in the market for new/different grips for my XD9 for a little while and found Decal Grips.  The standard grips on the pistol work well and are comfortable enough while at the range, but I wanted something with a bit more grab.  Grips that would allow me to maintain positive control even if my hands were wet.

I had heard good things on various forums about Decal Grips, and they were reasonably priced, so I decided to give them a try.  I chose the sand texture.  They're also available in a rubber texture, which I would imagine is similar to other rubber slip-on grips.

The grips come on a pre-cut sheet with directions on suggested applications.  They're made so that as many or as few can be used.  I put three pieces on each side and one in the thumb rest area on the left side.  I left off the ones for the slide and back of the pistol, as they seemed unnecessary, but it's all up to the individual.  They were easy to apply.  I just wiped down the pistol grips with rubbing alcohol, let it dry and applied the grips.

The sand texture is pretty rough, but not objectionable.  They're exactly what I want, and I have no doubt they would help my grip in the event that my hands were wet or greasy or whatever.

The grips also look like they'll stay in place for a while, or at least they better.  The glue or adhesive seems that it will stay in place as long as the grips are needed.  They are stickers though, and have that look, as opposed to one piece, slip on or replacement grips.  While they don't look bad, they don't have the factory look like some accessories.

Overall, I think these are good grips for the money.  I think I paid around $12.  I would recommend them to anyone looking for aftermarket grips.

Streamlight NF-2

You can never have too many flashlights, so I was pretty excited to see the excellent selection of lights at the troop store at Ft. Lewis Washington. Normally I just browse these stores because they're just too expensive, but I saw this Streamlight NF-2 for 50% off and had to get it.

It's a great little light, and these "tactical" lights do a fantastic job of putting out light, despite their size. I've got a couple different lights about this size, and they all use CR123A batteries. The Streamlight puts out a better, stronger beam of light than the Surefire G2, but has a shorter battery life.

Here's a quick look at the specs:
# High-intensity xenon gas-filled bi-pin bulb delivers up to 7,900 peak beam candlepower(78 lumens)
# Adjustable spot-to-flood focus
# 1.3 hours of continuous run time
# Spare bulb contained within flashlight
# Head: 1.25;" Body: .9" x Length 4.8;" Ring: 1.38"
# 4.5 oz. with batteries
# Two 3 volt CR123A lithium batteries with a storage life of up to 10 years (included)
# TactCap™ click switch for quick, easy momentary operation
# Momentary push button tailcap, which rotates for locked "on"
# Polymer grip ring adjusts to any hand size
# Removable spring steel pocket clip and adjustable wrist lanyard

Right now it's in my car, but I have taken it running on some dark mornings and it worked very well. I kind of regret not getting another one for the price. Streamlight lists this as a discontinued product but you can still get them on the internet at various places. If you have a chance to get one of this, I would recommend it.