High Ground Media, LLC

Designed to serve as an advanced 72-hour bag, the Tour of Duty by TRU-SPEC® is a variant to the original “Gunny Approved” pack. It provides an alternative to the Pathfinder 2.5 Backpack by providing a more durable internal frame, compartmentalization, and a removable waist belt for hours of wear, while minimizing stress to the upper torso.

Introduced in 2018, the Tour of Duty is made from either 500D Cordura (Multicam Black) or 1050D polyester (Olive Drab, Black, or Coyote) that offers mid- or high-end abrasion resistance. At 18” (H) x 10” (W) x 10” (D) its overall carrying capacity is approximately 37 liters of cubic space and features an included internal frame to maintain its structure.

Exterior

On the exterior of the main compartment, is a 5” (H) x 8” (L) document pocket (with a hook-and-loop/MOLLE compatible exterior) that includes; a key lanyard and ID card window.  Below that is a larger 9” (H) x 9” (L) storage pocket that has a zippered accessory pocket. Both exterior pockets are secured by dual zipper drawstrings.

The center compartment is secured via dual zippered drawstrings and has a hook-and-loop secured pocket, a MOLLE field for mounting accessories or pouches, and a mesh pocket on the internal side of the opening.

Around the exterior are four 5” (H) x 3” (L) accessory pockets (one with a bonus 3.5” (H) x 2.5” (L) accessory pocket riding sidecar) secured via drawstring zipper for immediate access to essential items. Additionally, there are two hydration/communication cable access tabs secured via hook-and-loop that give allow passage into the main storage compartment.

Around the exterior of the Tour of Duty are three integrated nylon carrying handles to maximize handling in an aircraft, bus, or transport.

The adjustable, contoured, dual harness retention system features a dual shoulder strap design with integrated accessory pockets and adjustable sternum strap. Air mesh padding is segmented throughout the pack’s rigid back panel, and both sides have zippered access behind the support frame.

The 4” waist strap is padded on all sides and secured with a large 2.25” wide slide-release buckle. The waist strap can be removed and because of MOLLE fields on both sides can serve as a stand-alone impromptu utility or range belt.

Throughout the exterior of the Tour of Duty are multiple MOLLE straps for added compatibility.

Internal

The internal storage compartment to the Tour of Duty is reinforced on either side of the exterior with side cinch straps to ensure the stored items remain secure. The main storage space includes a laptop sleeve and internal administrative organizer that includes; three zipper-secured pockets, a hook-and-loop pocket flap, a business card window, and three pen sleeves.

Specifications:

• Available in 500D Cordura or 1050D polyester (color dependent)
• 37 liters of combined storage space
• Heavy, reverse coil zippers throughout

Product Evaluation Scores:

• Cost – Average (3/5): Priced between $145.95 (for polyester colors) and $177.95 (for the Multicam Black in 500D Cordura) the Tour of Duty Backpack (TDB) has a significant amount of material and hardware for its price, which is reflected somewhat high. For this review, the 500D Cordura version was tested. In comparison, popular alternative versions of backpacks with a similar storage volume include Tru-Spec’s Pathfinder 2.5 Backpack ($119 @ 39L of storage) or 5.11’s Rush24 Backpack ($129.99 @ 37L storage space). These alternative backpacks, while having comparable storage capacity, lack the compartmentalized design (externally and internally) of the TDB which may explain its somewhat higher price. Ultimately that is a decision the consumer must make.
• Comfort – Good (4/5): As with most packs, their comfort level is best determined by how the design was able to distribute the weight across the upper torso and waist (if including a waist belt). When attached, the width of the TDB’s waist belt was very comfortable against the hips, but lacked means of stowing the belt when not in use (so it was an all or nothing use) other than complete removal. For its design the TDB used both shoulder straps and the removable waist strap to effectively distribute the weight out across the upper shoulders and waist. And while not as thickly padded as the Pathfinder 2.5 backpack in the shoulders and backpanel, the TDB foam padding did allow for some heat dissipation and airflow. The compression straps helped keep the weight of the pack close into the body, and during stressor drills the TDB shoulder and waist straps kept the pack tight.
• Durability – Good (4/5): In the variant tested, the 500D Cordura material gave the TDB a good level of abrasion resistance despite being thrown around in a truckbed to/from the range. Significant levels of bartack, X-pattern, and double-line stitching was noted throughout the pack at stress points, MOLLE fields, and over the internal frame. All of which gave the TDB good marks in durability for testing, and over the long-term. As like the Pathfinder 2.5, the hardware is more likely to wear out before the pack’s material will.
• Functionality – Average (3/5): The TDB is clearly designed for those on the move, with significant compartmentalization and readily accessible pouches. The multiple storage compartments made it a good fit for EDC use, air travel, or use in the field. All zippers had weatherized overlap material to limit moisture penetration, with cord pull tabs (would have preferred to see rubberized tubing or something a little more durable). The bottom compression straps didn’t fit completely between the side accessory pouches so when cinched, it did pinch the top of the pouches slightly and inhibited immediate access. The padding material to the backpanel and shoulder straps was notably thinner than other backpacks on the market, which did inhibit wear on the user over an extended duration (2+ hours).
• Weight – Average (3/5): At approximately 5 pounds for 37L of combined storage space, the Tour of Duty Backpack made for a good-sized 36-hour backpack, more than capable of storing items for a day travel or hike. In comparison, Tru-Spec’s Pathfinder Backpack (3.35 pounds @ 39L of storage) or 5.11’s Rush24 Backpack (3.79 pounds @ 37L storage space) reflect the differences in design and materials, with the Tour of Duty having more pouches and compartmentalization—and thus weighing slightly more.

Overall Rating – Above Average (17/25)

Product Link: https://www.truspec.com/backpacks/double-strap/tour-of-duty-backpack

I am reviewing this product as a courtesy to the manufacturer and via STL Shooting Enthusiasts, so that I can evaluate it and provide my honest feedback. I am not bound by any written, verbal, or implied contract to give positive reviews. All views are my own, and based off my personal experience with the product.

The views and opinions expressed on this website are solely those of the author. The views and opinions do not necessarily represent those of the administrative staff, and/or any/all contributors to this site.

New for 2021, the Radian Carbon Tripod from Vortex brings together the latest materials and a stable platform to give shooters the critical edge when the shot needs to count. Easily strapped to a backpack, the tripod is easily at home in the field on the hunt, or on the range putting in the work on long distance precision.

Made overall from a combination of carbon fiber and American steel, the Radian Carbon Tripod has an overall deployed height of 67.3” and when collapsed to its lowest position is just 8.3” off the ground with the ball head. But when stowed, the tripod has an overall folded up dimension of just 28” (H) x 6” (W).

Each leg of the Radian is made from carbon fiber construction giving the tripod an overall strength of 55 lbs. Max Load with the Ball Head and 44 lbs. with the Leveling Head. The legs themselves have large rubberized locking lugs (with a vaulted design for rapid deployment) in four sections that give it the ability to adjust to a wide variety of heights. Each leg ends in a rubberized pad/ball with the threaded option to add spiked feet (included) for added traction on loose terrain.

The tripod head of the Radian Carbon is available as either a removable ball or leveling head style that includes dual leveling bubbles (one on the tripod itself and another on the head) to assist in its independent pan and tension control.

An Arca-Swiss Head Mount with a quick-release plate on the tripod gives the Radian Carbon the largest compatibility with a wide array of aftermarket accessories. At the bottom of the tripod head is a counterweight hook to attach stability counterweight if needed.

The Radian Carbon Tripod is available only in carbon black and comes with its own nylon carrying case.

Product Evaluation Scores:

• Cost – Fair (2/5): With an MSRP of $1,199.99 for the Ball Head Kit and $1,099.99 for the Leveling Head Kit, the Radian Carbon Tripod is the most expensive variant of tripods offered from Vortex, and comes in either a ball or leveling platform (featured) version. It consists of some of the lightest and strongest materials available on the market, and can be used in a wide array of applications. Perhaps the closest competitor to the Radian is the TFCT Tripod ($1,270) from RSS/SOAR, while other inexpensive options include the PIGlite-CF4 Carbon Fiber Shooting Tripod ($339 and without tripod head) by Hog Saddle, and the Deathgrip Tripod ($257 with fixed rifle saddle) by BOG. Obviously the market is awash in a variety of tripods offering a variety of lightweight materials and designs. In total, this makes the Radian Carbon Tripod one of the most expensive tripods on the market, something justifiable and at a fair price point with its carbon fiber body and composite metal hardware.
• Comfort – Excellent (5/5): Fully deployed, the Radian Carbon Tripod had an overall excellent comfort level—with a very wide and stable platform, and both the rubberized and spiked feet kept a solid grip to the ground surface with the rifle mounted and while firing. The legs adjusted smoothly and all locking lugs and metal hinges locked securely with no slippage. Most importantly, the tripod head itself moved smoothly and freely (when loosened) and allowed the shooter to find a comfortable position, tilt, and pan.
• Durability – Excellent (5/5): From a durability aspect, the carbon fiber material was among the strongest and lightest on the market, and gave the tripod an excellent level of durability. It bore the weight of a full-length rifle in both the 5.56 and .308 caliber without any flex in the legs, regardless of how far they were extended or compressed. The metal hardware joining the various carbon fiber elements helped ensure the joints of the tripod remained aligned, and moved smoothly. The locking lugs held a secure hold and while engaged prevented any accidental slippage, even when direct pressure was applied. Minor scuffing of the rubberized feet was noted during usage, but that was to be expected over the various terrain types. Wear on these rubberized feet could be further mitigated by using the terrain spikes. Perhaps the only recommendation to Vortex on improvement to the Durability for the Radian tripod overall, would be to consider improvements to the carrying bag, as its internal material and zipper felt sub-par and thin.
• Functionality – Good (4/5): Functionally, the use of the Radian Carbon Tripod was pretty straightforward, with locking lugs having clear icons and directional arrows to denote locking/unlocking while extending the legs. The platform itself was very stable in relation to the free-floating leveling head, that in itself could also be easily adjusted via tension control at the bottom of the leveling head. Moreover, the leveling head could be tilted, or panned and locked into any position desired that give solid support to the shooter. The Arca-Swiss Head Mount itself was also easily removed via the QD lock to install/remove any associated weapon or camera mount (in this review a PIG Saddle). The application of dual leveling bubbles (one on the tripod and one on the head) allowed for quick and easy visual recognition in differences between the angle of the tripod and terrain, and the leveling head to the rifle.
• Weight – Average (3/5): With an overall weight of 7.3 pounds (with the ball head platform on but without weapon mount) and a max height of 67.3”—the Radian Carbon Tripod was of an appropriate (or of average) weight given its overall variable height, lightweight materials, and reinforcing hardware. In contrast, the TFCT Tripod (4.4 pounds w/max height of 71.1”) from RSS/SOAR, the PIGlite-CF4 Carbon Fiber Shooting Tripod (3.6 pounds w/max height of 63.5”) by Hog Saddle, and the Deathgrip Tripod (9.71 pounds for the aluminum version or 9 pounds for the carbon fiber version—both with a max height of 59”) by BOG illustrate that although lighter tripods are available, many lack the overall height of the Radian Carbon (although the Radian it is neither the heaviest nor the tallest).

Overall Rating – Above Average (19/25)

Product Link: https://vortexoptics.com/radian-carbon-leveling-head-tripod-kit.html

I am reviewing this product as a courtesy to the manufacturer and via STL Shooting Enthusiasts, so that I can evaluate it and provide my honest feedback. I am not bound by any written, verbal, or implied contract to give positive reviews. All views are my own, and based off my personal experience with the product.

The views and opinions expressed on this website are solely those of the author. The views and opinions do not necessarily represent those of the administrative staff, and/or any/all contributors to this site.

Released on October 19, 2023, the Garmin Xero C1 Pro offers a compact, no-frills solution for gathering ballistic data in the field. Built to withstand rough conditions and provide reliable readings without extra setup gear, it immediately appeals to professionals and enthusiasts who prioritize mobility and simplicity. The question is whether this chronograph can hold up under real-world use where consistency, durability, and speed matter most.

The Garmin Xero C1 Pro chronograph has overall dimensions of 3.03″ (L) × 2.38″ (H) × 1.36″ (W) and features an outer case made from fiber-reinforced polymer, a composite plastic commonly used for its balance of strength and weight. The housing, screen interface, and button points are sealed to meet an IPX7 water-resistance rating, allowing the device to function after submersion in up to one meter of water for up to 30 minutes.

The front of the Xero C1 is minimal in appearance, displaying only the “Garmin” logo. This understated design is intentional, as the device’s Doppler radar sensor is positioned directly behind the front face. This sensor allows the Xero C1 to measure projectile velocities with an accuracy of ±0.1% for rifles and pistols, and ±0.4% for slower projectiles, such as arrows or airgun pellets.

Both sides of the device are relatively plain, with the exception of the USB-C port located on the left side, that is protected by a rubberized cover. This port is used for charging the built-in, non-replaceable rechargeable lithium-ion battery rated at 3.7 V. When fully charged, the battery provides approximately six hours of continuous operation.

The rear of the Xero C1 features a 240 × 320 pixel monochrome display that clearly presents all settings, shot data, and status information. This transflective screen is designed for visibility in a wide range of lighting conditions, including direct sunlight. Users can adjust the brightness across multiple levels to suit their environment, and there is an option to invert the color scheme—switching between dark text on a light background and light text on a dark background—to enhance readability. Additionally, the display surface has a matte finish that helps minimize glare and reflections, further improving visibility during outdoor use and reducing eye strain.

The top of the Xero C1 has four buttons for navigating the device’s menu system. These include an “OK” button, which functions as an enter or select key; a “back” button used to return to the previous menu screen, which can also be held for five seconds to power the device on or off; and “up” and “down” arrow buttons to move the highlighted selection within the menu.

The bottom of the Xero C1 features a 1/4″-20 threaded female adapter for attaching the included tripod. The tripod is constructed from lightweight plastic and provides a base width of approximately 5 inches when fully extended.

The Xero C1’s onboard software provides the primary interface for configuring device settings, including display preferences, units of measurement (e.g., feet per second, meters per second), and measurement parameters within the Settings menu. It also guides users through the setup and management of shooting Sessions, offering a clear, real-time shot display during data collection. The chronograph connects via Bluetooth Low Energy to Garmin’s ShotView smartphone app, which is compatible with both iOS and Android devices. The app enables users to review and analyze recorded shot data after each session, with data syncing occurring quickly once the devices are in range. Within the app, users can edit or delete individual shots, add contextual notes, and export the full dataset as a CSV file for further analysis or record-keeping. This integration streamlines data management and facilitates detailed performance tracking over time.

The Garmin Xero C1 Pro chronograph is only available in a coyote desert tan, and comes with the included tripod, USB-C cable, and documentation.

Product Evaluation Scores:

• Cost – Good (4/5): At an MSRP of $599, the Garmin Xero C1 Pro chronograph delivers a significant leap forward in ballistic measurement technology by combining compactness, precision, and ease of use into a single, highly portable unit. Unlike legacy systems—such as the bulky and tripod-dependent LabRadar ($366) or the Velociradar ($604.99) from Caldwell, both of which have faced criticism for unreliable software, inconsistent performance in varied lighting, and setup complexity—the Xero C1 Pro integrates next-generation Doppler radar technology in a form factor small enough to fit in a pocket. It operates independently of external lighting or projectile path alignment, providing consistent velocity data with minimal setup time for up to 6 hours (more if an external battery pack is used). In contrast, budget-oriented options like the ProChrono DLX Bluetooth ($159.99) from Competitive Electronics or Caldwell Ballistic Precision 2.0 ($164.99) rely on optical sensors that must be positioned downrange—placing delicate equipment in harm’s way and requiring additional hardware to operate effectively. Garmin’s Xero C1 Pro eliminates these issues entirely, offering a fully enclosed, self-contained unit with intuitive smartphone integration, ruggedized construction, and multi-shot tracking—making it not only safer and more convenient, but a far better value proposition in terms of performance-per-dollar in today’s chronograph market.
• Comfort – Good (4/5): The Garmin Xero C1 Pro chronograph offered a notably streamlined and user-friendly experience in the field, largely due to its compact size, straightforward design, and practical interface. Weighing very little, the device fit easily into a pack or jacket pocket, which benefits users who prioritize portability. Unlike traditional chronographs that often require multiple components, external sensors, or alignment tools, the Xero C1 Pro required minimal setup—end-users simply unfolded the included tripod, powered the unit on, and began recording data. The rear display, a matte-finished monochrome screen, remained readable in various lighting conditions, and allowed for brightness adjustment and screen inversion to accommodate user preference. The four-button layout on the top of the unit supported basic navigation, with functions that were intuitive and responsive during use. The smartphone app helped streamline post-session data management without the need for additional devices or software.
• Durability – Good (4/5): From a durability standpoint, the Garmin Xero C1 Pro consistently proved resilient under extended field use. Its fiber-reinforced polymer housing handled routine use, accidental drops, bumps, and exposure to rain without issue. Its IPX7 water-resistance rating (submersion up to one meter for 30 minutes) further ensured protection in wet conditions. Even when placed in close proximity to the rifle’s muzzle, the unit reliably absorbed shock and maintained accurate performance. One of the few concerns regarding long-term durability is the non-user-replaceable internal lithium-ion battery. While it is rechargeable via USB-C, replacement requires Garmin service or technical disassembly, which voids the warranty. However, discussions on forums such as SnipersHide forum have shown that the Garmin battery (Garmin part number 361-00056-15) can be replaced manually, provided it includes an integrated battery management system (BMS) board—though this is an unofficial, user-driven solution. Garmin support representatives stated the battery is rated for three years of continuous use, with an expected service life of up to four years in high-use scenarios or around ten years with intermittent use. Importantly, even if the internal battery fails, the Xero C1 is designed to operate when connected to an external power source via its USB-C port. This fallback ensures the unit remains functional, even beyond the lifespan of the built-in battery—offering added reassurance for long-term users who rely on its consistent field performance. Users should note that mounting the Xero C1 directly to a rifle’s handguard—particularly with rigid aluminum brackets—has led to occasional (though rare) unit failures. Garmin has clarified that the device is not shock-rated for that level of impulse and was never intended for direct weapon mounting. As such, damage from this setup is considered misuse and is not covered under warranty.
• Functionality – Good (4/5): From a functional perspective, the Garmin Xero C1 Pro was designed around a streamlined interface and integrated software intended to simplify the process of capturing and managing ballistic data. Its onboard menu system, accessed through just four physical buttons, allowed the user to configure measurement units, display brightness, and interface settings without relying on additional hardware. The transflective monochrome screen had a matte finish that remained readable in varying lighting conditions, with an option to invert the color scheme for user preference. The Xero C1 also paired with Garmin’s ShotView app via Bluetooth easily and consistently. This app provided access to stored shot data, session history, and allowed users to annotate, delete, or export individual shot strings. Exported data could be exported as CSV files for use in spreadsheets or performance tracking. The synchronization between the chronograph and app was typically quick and required no cables or manual data transfer. While the device was functional on its own, most advanced data management features—such as reviewing detailed shot logs or exporting sessions—were only accessible through the app. The Xero C1 (nor its associated app) did not include built-in ballistic calculators or support for custom projectile profiles, which could limit its utility for some users who require in-depth analysis directly from the device or via their smartphone. Additionally, the software interface focused on delivering core functionality, without extensive onboard customization or expanded features beyond basic data logging and display. Overall, the Xero C1 Pro emphasized ease of use and efficient data handling, providing a simplified workflow for capturing velocity data. For users seeking a portable chronograph with minimal setup and basic digital integration, it offered a focused set of features designed to streamline the process of recording and reviewing ballistic information. It should be noted however, that Garmin did not include any type of nylon carrying case or container to transport the Xero C1 in, and it will be on the consumer to find a suitable alternative.
• Weight – Excellent (5/5): Weighing just 3.7 ounces for the device and 5.7 ounces with the included tripod, the Garmin Xero C1 Pro has a total system weight of only 9.4 ounces. This reflects a modern, lightweight design made possible by Garmin’s use of compact Doppler radar technology and a streamlined, all-in-one form factor that eliminates the need for additional sensors or bulky components. In contrast, older chronograph systems are significantly heavier and often more cumbersome to deploy. The LabRadar, for instance, weighs 3.8 ounces for the device alone but requires multiple accessories for full use. Caldwell’s VelociRadar weighs 48.7 ounces, the ProChrono DLX Bluetooth from Competition Electronics comes in at 33.6 ounces, and Caldwell’s Ballistic Precision 2.0 weighs 20.4 ounces. These legacy models rely on older optical or radar-based systems that typically involve external sky screens, tripods, or chronograph arms—adding bulk and setup time. By comparison, the Xero C1 offers a more portable, integrated solution that is easier to carry and deploy, particularly in field conditions where space and time are limited.

Overall Rating – Good (21/25)

Product Link: https://www.garmin.com/en-US/p/771164/

I am reviewing this product as a courtesy to the manufacturer and via High Ground Media, so that I can evaluate it and provide my honest feedback. I am not bound by any written, verbal, or implied contract to give positive reviews. All views are my own, and based off my personal experience with the product.

The views and opinions expressed on this website are solely those of the author. The views and opinions do not necessarily represent those of the administrative staff, and/or any/all contributors to this site.