The SG Timer 2 by Shooters Global represents the next evolution of handheld shot timers, built for both training and competition use with extensive customization. Scoring a total of 19 points out of an available […]
The SG Timer 2 by Shooters Global represents the next evolution of handheld shot timers, built for both training and competition use with extensive customization. Scoring a total of 19 points out of an available […]
The Next Generation FAST SF Helmet System, unveiled in May 2025, enhances Ops-Core’s previous design by reducing weight while ensuring strong ballistic and blunt impact protection. Scoring 20 out of 25 points, it excels in lightness, functionality, durability, and comfort, marking a notable evolution in special operations headgear.
The Urban Warfare Double Rifle Bag by Savior Equipment offers ideal protection and smart storage in a sleek, low-profile design built for serious shooters. Scoring a total of 19 points out of an available 25, […]
The Specialist Covert Single Rifle Bag by Savior Equipment offered discreet protection and organized storage in a streamlined, low-visibility design oriented toward low-profile rifle transport. Scoring a total of 20 points from an available 25, […]
Introduced in 2022 as the cold-weather extension of Viktos’ Johnny Combat footwear line, the Johnny Combat Winter Boot provides a fully insulated, weather-resistant platform designed for snow, slush, and freezing field conditions. Scoring a […]
Introduced in early 2020, Pelican’s Cargo line has evolved through a series of revisions shaped by both material availability and customer feedback. Today, the Cargo line had matured into a heavy-duty vehicle-mounted storage solution for […]
Introduced in mid-2025 as Athlon’s first-ever offering in this category, the Rangecraft Velocity PRO Radar Chronograph provides a compact yet capable radar chronograph designed for versatile field use. Scoring a total of 21 points against an available […]
Released in fall of 2025, the Range Trainer XD Waterproof Shell from Viktos is intended to act as an enhanced evolution to the company’s outerwear line, and provide a durable yet lightweight […]
The 1485 Air Case, introduced by Pelican in 2016 as a lighter alternative to the Protector series, combines durability and compactness for reliable protection of smaller electronics and sensitive gear. It earned 19 out of 25 points in a review, performing well across four out of five categories for small equipment.
The Range Trainer XD Waterproof Bib, launched in fall 2025, complements Viktos’ outerwear line by offering a robust, weatherproof over-pant for challenging outdoor conditions. With enhanced durability and tactical features, it scored 19 out of 25 for comfort, demonstrating a good balance of cost and functionality in wet-weather scenarios.
Released in early 2022, the XR is one of the latest iterations in the FAST series of Ops-Core protective helmets. Intended to address the specific threats faced by overseas service members, the XR is tested extensively to defeat threats up NIJ IIIA profiles and 7.62×39 lead core ammunition. Made in a two-stage, non-split design, the XR has a 0.290” outer shell that incorporates a proprietary blend of carbon (for the ceramic protection), unidirectional polyethylene (a type of plastic formed in a specific pattern for distributing load), and Aramid (short for aromatic polyamide the material is a type of synthetic nylon known for its strength and overall resistance to heat).




On the exterior, the XR incorporates a high-cut approach that utilizes the skeletonized Arc rail system for accessory mounting. This rail also integrates with Ops-Core’s other headborne solutions (sold separately) that expand on the functionality of the helmet to include other protective systems.





The XR shell dimensions extend protection to the rear occipital lobe (i.e. the back of your skull) without interfering in full range of motion, or contacting the end-user’s neck.




A modular bungee shroud at the front of the helmet is made from polymer, and provides an anchoring point and shock cord retention for various night vision devices. Set inside is a strengthened, CNC-machined, aluminum frame that is removable to account for different night vision mounting solutions without necessitating removal of the overall shroud.



Six hook-and-loop panels are positioned around the crown and rear of the XR for attaching various accessories with supportive mounting material.

The interior of the XR uses Ops-Core’s Lux Liner with low-profile OCC dial-adjustment framework for sizing. As the OCC dial turns, the suspension system either draws in or extends to the desired head circumference. This suspension system includes 10, ½” thick, open-cell foam pads throughout the interior for maximum protection. Each pad is held in place by hook-and-loop material. Included with the XR are two sets of pads (one for ¼” thickness, and another for ¾” thickness) for the end-user to adjust the interior’s comfort.







Included in the design of the interior shell is a channel that runs across the midsection of the helmet and (with the removal of three associated pad sections) accommodates for headbands while wearing hearing protection under the helmet.






The harness system of the XR features a four-point Head-Loc chinstrap with slide-adjustment buckles, and a leather-lined chin cup.
During development, the XR was tested at Chesapeake Testing (a division of NTS located in Belcamp, MD) to meet NIJ 0101.06 standards for IIIA ballistic threats in body armor. The XR was also developed to meet the threat profile most likely to be experienced overseas. Included in this protective value, the XR was also found to defeat associated blunt force and fragmentary impacts. Using Ops Core performance data for the XR (via the Ballistic Limit (BL) test specifically for helmets—which in turn is a continuation on the previous NIJ Standard 0106.01), and the velocity data of the rounds identified (blue – NIJ IIIA test caliber; red – overseas test caliber), the XR shows the following:
| Projectile | Minimum V50* BL(P) at 0°(±5°) Obliquity (ft/s) | Projectile** Max. Velocity at Bore (ft/s) | Projectile** Max. Velocity at 50yd (ft/s) | Projectile **Max. Velocity at 100yd (ft/s) |
| 9mm FMJ RN, 124gr | 1400 | 1200 | 1095 | 1018 |
| 9mm x 18mm SJLC, 105 gr | 1017 | 1048 | 913 | 846 |
| .44 Mag SWCGC, 240gr | 1430 | 1455 | 1312 | 1178 |
| .44 Mag JHP, 240 gr | 1430 | 1210 | 1102 | 1024 |
| 7.62mm x 25mm SJLC, 86gr | 1475 | 1450 | / | / |
| 7.62mm x 39mm LC, 123gr | 2400 | 2349 | 2175 | 2008 |
| .40S&W GDHP, 180 gr | 1025 | 1025 | 988 | 928 |
The FAST XR is available in 499 Tan (featured), Ranger Green, Urban Grey, Black and Multicam. It is also available in sizes between Medium and 2XL.






Product Evaluation Scores:
Overall Rating – Above Average (19/25)
Product Link: https://shop.gentexcorp.com/ops-core-fast-xr-high-cut-helmet-system/

I am reviewing this product as a courtesy to the manufacturer and via High Ground Media, LLC, 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.
With its start in light switch controls, Cloud Defensive released the REIN 2.0 weapon light in early 2022, and it builds upon the initial version of the REIN using knowledge and experience gained in producing some of the most durable lights on the market.



The REIN (aka the Rail-Mounted Environmental IllumiNator) 2.0 has two designs; a full-sized body (featured in this review) and a “micro” variant with a smaller length tube. Much like the original, the standard-sized REIN 2.0 is made mostly from certified 6061-T6 aluminum and has an overall length of 5.9” (6% smaller than the REIN), with the largest diameter of 1.2” at the bezel/head (a reduction of 15% in size). And while the REIN 2.0 can be run independently via its push-button tail switch, the 2.75” polymer remote switch can be mounted to any picatinny rail. The switch also has a profile of just 0.5” off the top of the rail itself, with a slight reduction in bulk along the side plates for a more ergonomic fit.


The REIN 2.0 consists of three parts; the head, body and tailcap—with each component being fully backwards compatible to the previous REIN. Each is machined to precise specifications, and then anodized to meet ANSI/PLATO FL-1 impact resistance standards with a black satin exterior (although other finishes are available). All segments are sealed via silicone rings to ensure against water and dust penetration. As such the REIN 2.0 (switch included) has been certified in IPX8 immersion testing for use while under 100’ of water for up to 24 hours.



At the head, the REIN 2.0 High Candela (HC) light element (18650 series) produces an emission of 71,000 candela/1,100 lumens of warm-toned light. Alternatively, if end-users select the micro REIN 2.0 version they will still receive the HC light element (but have the option of getting the Every Day Carry (EDC) light element (18350 series) that produces 63,000 candela/950 lumens) separately. This is due to the combination of the electroformed reflector, power supply, and warmer LED emission that allows the REIN 2.0 to project light further than many competitors. It is important to note that lumens are a measure of the potential light during performance. However, without an efficient focal point to concentrate the beam, lumens quickly disperse over an ever widening range. In contrast, candela is the measure of light that is focused sufficiently to reach the target at a specific distance. While the REIN does have an impressive 1,100 lumens (a common industry metric of measure), its crushing 71,000 candela is greater than the REIN or OWL and allows for greater penetration of useable light through photonic barriers (such as smoke, dust, or opposing light sources). This allows end-users to recognize targets at a greater range.




The light element also includes a redesigned and more streamlined bezel made from the same 6061-T6 aluminum as the body. This bezel secures a military-grade 3mm thick glass that while robust, is the principle sacrificial element to the light . The glass is described by Cloud Defensive as low-iron glass, with 98% light transmission that was 40% thicker than other market competitors.


The body of the REIN 2.0 is made from a single piece milled aluminum. It includes the standard Surefire Scout mounting pattern for cross-compatibility with any number of aftermarket mounting accessories. The 2.0 does include a standard picatinny rail mount, that attaches via screw into the body’s mounting points. In addition, the interior of the body includes a patented adjustable battery jack that allows for adjustment/minimization between the space of the included full-sized 18650 rechargeable battery (or 18350 for the micro), and the tailcap so there is less risk of movement or contact separation. The full-sized 18650 power cell itself will provide for 130 minutes of continual runtime on a single charge, or 35 minutes of continual runtime for the micro’s 18350.



The REIN 2.0 employs the same unique tailcap design as its predecessor which includes; the segmented four-way slotted base, the push button/remote switch module (which includes a fixed cable to the rail-mounted switch), and the retaining ring. This design allows for the ON/OFF push button to be independently operated from the rail-mounted remote switch. It also allows for redundancy if one were to go down. Additionally, the user can remove the switch module and adjust the cable output to any of the four slot positions from the 2.0 body that best suits not only the user’s needs, but weapon configuration as well.






Affixed to the switch module, the rail-mounted push button/remote switch includes several features. Primarily, the remote switch has a momentary ON/OFF pressure switch, as well as a separate continual ON/OFF switch with an audible/tactile feel. The new 2.0 switch also includes a slightly raised ridgeline around 2/3s of each button to prevent inadvertent actioning of the light. The removable sides are redesigned but still channeled to allow for the cable to be run along either sides, as well as a midway “early out” port that allow the user to maximize cable management.





The REIN 2.0 is currently only available in Black (featured), Clear Anodized, Flat Dark Earth, and OD Green. It also includes a charging unit for the 18650 battery that comes with a UBS power cable. It also comes in two models, the full-sized REIN 2.0 (18650 series) and the micro (18350 series).














Product Evaluation Scores:
Overall Rating – Good (20/25)
Product Link: https://www.clouddefensive.com/product/rein-2-0/

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.
Intended as a simple and unobtrusive means to carry a handgun or accessories, the Multi-Pistol Carrier (MPC) by Hazard 4 combines all-around padding with a low-profile appearance. Available in either Black, Coyote, or Grayman, the MPC can be ideal for those wanting an exclusive carrier for their pistols.
Made from either 1000D Cordura (Coyote or Black) or Polyester nylon (Grayman), the overall size of the carrier is based on which version chosen, and presents either the tactical or low-profile appearance. For this review, the Grayman version was submitted which measures 13.5″ (L) x 9.5″ (W) x 7″ (H).
Exterior
At the front, the MPC has a simple face, with a band of laser cut (female) hook-and-loop for adding MOLLE pouches or identification patches. In the Grayman edition, this band of material comes with a corresponding cover to further reduce any tactical signature. Between the front and rear sides, the carrying handles are anchored by X-pattern and bartack stitching for maximum strength.

The MPC’s left and right sides features four bands of nylon webbing for accommodating additional pouches or accessories. In the Grayman edition, this webbing is replaced with a non-descript side pouch on one end, and a sleeve pocket on the opposite. Both sides include metal hardware points for a removable shoulder strap with corresponding plastic carabiners.
The lid of the MPC features an additional accessory or storage pocket with a velour and nylon lining that allow for mounting of corresponding (male) hook-and-loop items such as holsters or pouches. The accessory pocket and lid to the MPC are secured via dual TSA-compliant, YKK travel zippers.
The rear and bottom of the MPC have a clean face, with the back having a single plastic D-ring for attaching the MPC to other points of contact.

Interior
Padded on all sides, the MPC has 360-degree protection for the enclosed handguns. The interior is lined in velour to enable customization of the included five padded dividers.

The divider’s themselves include an elastic cuff for an additional magazine to be stored with the handgun. One of the five dividers include six elastic cuffs for securing cleaning accessories or other items. Another divider includes a top flap for enclosing contents to the storage area between dividers. Depending on the size/barrel length of handgun, or configuration of the dividers, the MPC can accommodate between 6 and 14 handguns, and eliminates the problem of bringing multiple firearms to the range.
Product Evaluation Scores:
Overall Rating – Good (21/25)
Product Link: https://www.hazard4.com/mpc.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.