From April 16–21, RIX Tactical and RIX Optics took part in one of the most impactful events of the year—the GTOA Conference, held in tandem with ATOA, in Columbus, Georgia. These conferences brought together tactical professionals, SWAT operators, military trainers, and public safety units from across Georgia, Alabama, and beyond.

This wasn’t your average trade show—it was a hands-on, operator-driven environment where real gear met real missions.

Monday – Fort Benning Demo: MK-R3000 Rangefinder for Military Use

Before GTOA officially kicked off, our team visited Fort Benning to introduce the MK-R3000 Rangefinding Binoculars to military personnel and instructors.

Built for speed, accuracy, and field-readiness, the MK-R3000 offers:

  • 8×32 binocular optics with ED low-dispersion glass and 87%+ light transmission
  • Ultra-compact size (5.3” length) and light weight (780g)
  • A 304×256 AMOLED dynamic display with auto-brightness
  • ±1m range accuracy beyond 300m, powered by advanced laser ranging technology
  • Ballistics Application Mode (BAM) + standard ranging modes
  • Bluetooth integration with devices like the Kestrel anemometer
  • Environmental sensors for humidity, altitude, and temperature

The response from Fort Benning? Resounding interest. The MK-R3000 stood out as a next-gen rangefinder for military and tactical use, delivering both precision and adaptability in the field.

Tuesday – RIP-3C Tactical Laser Launch and Advanced Law Enforcement Tech

Day two at GTOA/ATOA saw the official launch of the RIP-3C—a compact, mission-ready IR and visible laser with IR illuminator, designed for law enforcement and military operators.

RIP-3C Key Features:

  • Co-aligned green visible (520nm) and IR laser (820nm)
  • High-output VCSEL IR illuminator (850nm, 35mW) with adjustable beam
  • Class 3a laser rating, IP67 waterproof, and 1000g recoil resistance
  • Compact footprint, ambidextrous controls, and tool-less adjustments

SWAT officers and tactical instructors from Georgia and Alabama engaged with the RIP-3C throughout the day, praising its ease of use, fast zeroing, and rugged reliability. It was without a doubt one of the most talked-about products at the event.

Also on display were our thermal imaging optics from RIX Optics—riflescopes and monoculars known for fast target acquisition, high-resolution imaging, and intuitive interfaces. These optics serve both tactical and outdoor roles, making them ideal for law enforcement agencies working in low-visibility environments.

We also had the chance to witness incredible law enforcement tech including:

  • A SWAT “killdozer”, built for armored entry and breaching ops
  • A Boston Dynamics robotic dog integrated with UAV capabilities for mobile recon and perimeter security

Wednesday – Live Fire Range Day with Alpha Group Industries

The week wrapped with a full range day hosted by Alpha Group Industries at their 800-acre training facility near Columbus, GA.

This was no simple demo day—it was full-speed drills using cutting-edge live fire targets, simulated CQB, and team-based exercises. Our products were pushed through real-world scenarios by law enforcement and SWAT teams.

What performed:

  • The RIP-3C held zero under recoil, dust, and dynamic movement
  • RIX thermal optics delivered crisp detection and fast engagement
  • Officers tested compatibility and handling in active rifle configurations

This wasn’t theory. It was performance under pressure, and it showed exactly why RIX Tactical gear is built for real-world operations.

Why GTOA/ATOA Matters for Tactical Professionals

Events like the GTOA Conference and ATOA are more than networking—they’re where gear gets tested by those who depend on it daily. SWAT operators, patrol officers, and training cadre come not just to observe—but to engage, critique, and evaluate gear that could save lives.

For RIX, this was more than a showcase. It was an opportunity to launch new technology, refine based on operator feedback, and build relationships with the professionals shaping the future of tactical response.

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Thanks to everyone at GTOA, ATOA, and Alpha Group Industries for an unforgettable week. We’ll be back—and we’ll be bringing more.