Abstract: A modular plug (23) for terminating cordage includes a housing (41) having a free end (46) and a cordage-input end. An end portion of a length of cordage (21) to be terminated by the plug is inserted into the cordage-input end of the housing to cause exposed individually insulated conductors extending beyond a jacketed portion of the cordage to be received in a conductor-holding portion of the housing. Blade-like terminals (42--42) inserted into slots opening to an exterior surface of the housing engage electrically the conductors. An anchoring member (61) is caused to be moved to an operative position whereat a primary jacket anchoring surface (74) of the anchoring member becomes disposed in compressive engagement with a jacket of the cordage. The geometry of the anchoring member is such that the primary anchoring surface in an unoperated position is angled to a longitudinal axis of the end portion of the length of cordage.

Abstract: A muzzle stabilization arrangement for a rifle (10) with a barrel (14) includes a muzzle stabilizer (18) mounted on the front end of the barrel and having a transverse opening (80) partially defined by a surface (84) upon which propellant gases from the muzzle may impinge during firing to hold the muzzle down. Gas ports (38, 40) in the barrel supply propellant gas to orifices (62, 64) in the stabilizer which direct a gas screen over the opening to prevent excessive noise.