Conceived as MantaRails in 2009 to solve the problem of loose weapon pressure pads, Manta Defense now manufactures proprietary, heat-mitigating firearm accessories in-house at its New Philadelphia, Ohio facility. Its products are standard issue on two Marine Corps programs, including the M27 Infantry Automatic Rifle, and are fielded by militaries around the world. Manta says its materials are designed to protect operators and gear from extreme heat while managing wires and switches without permanently altering a weapon.
Ohio Ordnance Works, IncEstablished in 1981, Ohio Ordnance Works designs and manufactures automatic and semi-automatic firearms for military and law-enforcement applications, including light and heavy machine guns supplied to U.S. forces and customers worldwide. From its 35,000-plus-square-foot Chardon facility, the company also makes training-simulator arms and military mounts, building on founder Bob Landies’ background in weapons design and Army armor service. OOW employs more than 80 people and operates under ISO 9001:2015 certification.CHARDON, OH
IC13Made in Lebanon, Pennsylvania, IC13 designs and manufactures firearms accessories and gear, including its INVRT bandoleer system and lockable Mount Up! firearm mounts. Machined, sewn, and assembled on the same shop floor, the company sells directly to customers and draws on a team with more than 100 years of combined manufacturing experience.LEBANON, PA
HighCom Armor Solutions, IncFor more than 25 years, HighCom Armor Solutions has been an American manufacturer based in Columbus, Ohio, where it produces ballistic protection for the people working on the front line. Its 63,500-square-foot facility supports worldwide distribution and time-sensitive supply needs for military, law enforcement, and first-responder customers.COLUMBUS, OH
Kaeper Machine IncStarted in 1997 with one person and one lathe, Mentor, Ohio’s Kaeper Machine now manufactures precision components and assemblies for defense platforms and other industrial customers. The company has served as a prime contractor to the U.S. Department of Defense for more than 25 years, including producing more than 40,000 M240 lightweight collapsible buttstock assemblies and 60,000 M2 rear sights. Its 20-person operation includes more than 40 CNC mills and lathes and provides military-specification packaging alongside its manufacturing work.MENTOR, OH