High Ground Media, LLC

Available in early 2023 (with pre-orders beginning ahead of SHOT Show), the Rogue MOLLE Chest Rig Gen 2 by Tactical Tailor is ideal for use in competition, a day out on the range, or looking just for something to carry the essentials.

Made dominantly from 500D, solution-dyed, Cordura the primary feature of the Chest Rig Gen 2  is its 9.25” (W) x 6.5” (H) central platform on which the exterior has three bands of MOLLE nylon webbing. This enables the end-user to attach additional pouches or accessories that they may also need while on the range. Immediately behind the exterior is a full-length hook-and-loop secured (with a nylon tab to assist in opening) kangaroo pouch for storing flat admin items.

The rear of the central platform uses a 8” (W) x 4.75” (H) hook-and-loop attached backer that is removable and has nylon mesh with open-cell foam padding to increase ventilation and minimize abrasion of the overall rig against the torso.

At the shoulder harness, the Chest Rig Gen 2 has 2” wide, unpadded shoulder straps that (combined with slide-release buckles at the front and sides) allow the 1” nylon straps in the back and bottom to maintain a fixed H-style configuration behind the shoulders. At the top of the shoulder straps is a 5.5” (W) x 2” (H) field of hook-and-loop (female) for attaching identification patches. Five nylon bands, and a hook-and-loop tab on each shoulder strap enable for the passage and retention of hydration tubes or communication cables. This minimalist design makes it ideal to integrated the Chest Rig Gen 2 with a backpack or similar pack for a day’s training.

The Chest Rig Gen 2 is available is available in Multicam (featured), Black, Coyote Brown, and M81 Woodland.

Product Evaluation Scores:

• Cost – Excellent (5/5): With its list price of $85.55, the Rogue MOLLE Chest Rig Gen 2 is made almost exclusively of 500D Cordura, a fabric well known for its abrasion resistance. The result was a solid foundational chest rig with plenty of MOLLE space for growth and customization by adding magazine pouches or other accessories. In contrast, the same Micro Fight Chassis Mk4 setup ($138.85) from Spiritus Systems, or the Low Profile Chest Rig ($225.74) from London Bridge Tactical, and the Ten-Speed M4 Chest Rig ($93.95) from Blue Force Gear all illustrate that the Rouge Gen 2 Chest Ris is excellently priced given the materials and design.
• Comfort – Good (4/5): Comfort-wise, perhaps the biggest aspect to the Chest Rig Gen 2 was the wide shoulder harness that distributed the weight of a fully-loaded chest rig evenly and securely over the top of the shoulders. By having the cross section of the H-style shoulder harness be between the upper shoulders, it provided some of the broadest range of motion around the arms and ensured there was a fair degree of space in the rear of the neck so as to avoid abrasion along the exposed skin. The bottom straps also helped to ensure the front weight in the central platform (with mags attached) and other mounted accessories didn’t flop around. However, the shoulder straps were unpadded, and over time fatigue was noted in the upper shoulders and torso where some measure of padding or support could have assisted in mitigating. Added elements, like the hook-and-loop padded backer, helped ensure that the Chest Rig Gen 2 remained comfortable overall and when removed allowed the chest platform to secure to a plate carrier if utilized as a placard.
• Durability – Good (4/5): From a durability aspect; the review of the Chest Rig Gen 2 was divided down into two main elements; the fabric material itself, and the stitching. The majority of material in the Chest Rig Gen 2 was from solution-dyed Cordura with a denier rating of 500D. This meant that the fabric had edge-to-edge color consistency, fiber strength, and resistance to UV (sun) light that would otherwise cause deterioration in lesser fabrics. This denier rating of the fabric, and ability to resist abrasion, was/is standard within the tactical gear market as 500D offered the best balance between flexibility and durability to the overall product. Noted elsewhere throughout the Chest Rig Gen 2, at key stressor points along the shoulder straps, central platform, kangaroo pouch, and MOLLE field was extensive bartack and X-pattern reinforcement stitching to help ensure strength and longevity in the product.
• Functionality – Good (4/5): Functionally, the Chest Rig Gen 2 did a good job at doing what it was intended for. It provided a basic chest rig, with enough carrying capacity for short stints on the firing line, and had enough flexibility to add more pouches if more was needed. So the Chest Rig Gen 2 may be a simple chest rig for carbine, but it had the added ability to transition between pistol or rifle magazine pouches, a radio wing pouch, or even added in some admin pouches for a longer patrol or hike. Whatever the short-term use was, for a light day on the range the Chest Rig Gen 2 was able to be readily utilized, easily donned and then removed. Perhaps the only area of recommended improvement for TT would be to look at taking the hook-and-loop padded backer to the total edges of the rear side to the central platform. This would improve surface area for padding or as a plate carrier placard as the current design left approx. 1” all around unsecured or unpadded.
• Weight – Good (4/5): Weighing in at 13.1 ounces, the Chest Rig Gen 2 was made principally from 500D Cordura nylon with little in the way of excessive hardware to keep the overall weight down. The harness’s design, with a H-style shoulder strap, helped to keep the weight of the mags and MOLLE-attached contents even on the shoulders without pulling on the neck, and avoided chafing exposed skin. In contrast, the Micro Fight Chassis Mk4 setup (15-22 ounces depending on final configuration) from Spiritus Systems, or the Low Profile Chest Rig (24 ounces) from London Bridge Tactical, and the Ten-Speed M4 Chest Rig (11.3 ounces) from Blue Force Gear all illustrate that the Rogue Gen 2 Chest Rig is at good light weight within the current market of alternatives and materials.

Overall Rating – Good (21/25)

Product Link: https://tacticaltailor.com

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.

Using solid 6061 T6 aluminum, American Defense Manufacturing (ADM) offers six different mount styles for the popular Aimpoint PRO line of optics, to include a “straight” or cantilever  version. These two popular types of mounts offer PRO users a specific design based on their choice optic and unique preference.

Straight Mount

The M68/CompM2/Pro mount (AD 68 H) comes in two height-over-bore versions that each can accommodate optics at a (1) low, co-witness, or lower 1/3^rd co-witness, or at (2) an optional 2.33” height for use with night vision devices. A third option for the M68/CompM2/Pro mount allots for either of these mount version to include a stronger titanium lever.

The M68/CompM2/Pro mount is designed around a vertical two-part, split ring approach whereby the base of the mount uses a horizontal tab and pass-through double torque-screw to provide a solid connection that anchors the ring to the mount’s base. Similarly, the top of the ring also uses two horizontal torque-screws to further secure the optic.

On the base of the M68/CompM2/Pro mount is ADM’s patented Auto Lock™ Quick Disconnect throw lever (or optional titanium throw lever). The QD lever itself uses a push-button locking mechanism, cross-bolt, and adjustable nut that allows for the mount to fit both spec and out-of-spec rail systems.

Cantilever Mount

An alternative for the M68/CompM2/Pro mount is a cantilever (AD 68 C) version that includes a swept-forward design specific to mounting optics on AR-patterned rifles and managing limited rail space. This places Aimpoint optic forward over the mount, for a more appropriate eye-relief to the user when using other accessories, such as a magnifier.

Similar to the M68/CompM2/Pro mount, the cantilever version also uses the same base design with ADM’s patented Auto Lock™ Quick Disconnect throw lever (or optional titanium throw lever). The QD lever uses the same push-button locking mechanism, cross-bolt, and adjustable nut that allows for the mount to fit both spec and out-of-spec rail systems.

The M68/CompM2/Pro mount is available in Black (featured).

Product Evaluation Scores:

• Cost – Excellent (5/5): Depending on model and options selected, the M68/CompM2/Pro mount ($130) or the Cantilever ($155) are both made from the same 6061 T6 aluminum as other ADM mounts, and is a appropriate material for many quality mounts and other accessories. The mounts are also made via direct CNC machining that provides a clean surface, thus there is no seam or mold markings, and both include a locking QD throw lever to quickly attach/detach the mounts (and optic) to any MIL-STD-1913 rail. In contrast, similar mounts like the Leap/02 ($239) by Scalarworks, the Tactical Comp M2 Mount ($199) from LaRue Tactical, and the FAST Comp Series Mount ($186) represent some of the newer Aimpoint PRO mounts, with obviously much lower quality and inexpensive options also available. Thus for their price, in contrast to the materials and market, the M68/CompM2/Pro mount and cantilever versions are both of an excellent value for their cost.
• Comfort – Good (4/5): From a comfort aspect, the adjustability of the mount’s single QD throw lever allowed it to accommodate any picatinny-rail mount the optic was being fitted against. It also allowed the end-user to fine tune the sizing and finding a comfortable tension behind the QD Auto Lock’s spring that ensured a solid lock. This gave both PRO mounts a solid mount that had no excess movement in the overall optic. Otherwise, disassembly and reassembly of the mount components went smoothly, with screw threads lining up appropriately (though end-users need to take care not to overtighten the components or risk damage). Lastly, the variable height options for the standard PRO mount at time of purchase allotted the end-user to utilize a mount height appropriate to their individual needs with low/co-witness, and lower 1/3^rd options available. The reviewed co-witness mount appropriately placed the optic’s height.
• Durability – Good (4/5): Both Aimpoint PRO mounts were made of 6061 T6 aluminum  and finished in the same T3 mil-spec anodization as other ADM mounts which, over the course of two months and a number of iterations changing between and usage on a rifle, and transport—neither mount showed any significant signs of wear aside from minor surface marring or minor tool marks from adjusting/removing the optics (none of which penetrated into the sub-surface aluminum). Minor wear/fading was noted to the white surface markings (though was purely cosmetic). Moreover the locking mechanism and spring to the Auto Lock remained consistent once an appropriate size was identified, and continually retained tension.
• Functionality – Good (4/5): Functionally, where Both Aimpoint PRO mounts differed was in how the mount itself was postured over the rail. The Straight mount allotted for a direct-over-bore platform that the optic was easily attached to. This enabled the end-user to find the specific location along the rail by which was most comfortable, and offered the best eye relief in relation to either an AR pistol, SBR, or full-length rifle it was used on. In contrast, the cantilever mount design allowed the end-user to place the mount in the same position, but posture the optic far enough forward to allot for additional space on the rail for attaching magnifiers behind the PRO. Thus while it came down to end-user intent, both mounts offered a solid lock with evidence of excess movement in the optic regardless of platform and associated recoil. Otherwise, the Auto Lock mechanism provided a clear and tangible lock when the proper adjustment was made. For its solid design and performance, both the Pro mounts offered a good performance in function.
• Weight – Average (3/5): From a weight perspective, the evaluated Aimpoint PRO co-witness Standard mount and the Cantilever mount both came in at 3.8 ounces, with comparable weight being made from roughly the same amount of mass in aluminum and had the same QD locking mechanism. As such, neither was excessively heavy nor markedly unbalanced the firearm on which it was mounted. In contrast, the Leap/02 (2.45 ounces) by Scalarworks, the Tactical Comp M2 Mount (3.7 ounces) from LaRue Tactical, and the FAST Comp Series Mount (3.2 ounces) all demonstrate that the ADM Aimpoint Pro mounts are the heaviest (if by mere ounces) but an appropriate (or average) weight amid the current market competitors for PRO optics and reflect that more recent designs are likely finding new ways to cut down on overall mass.

Overall Rating – Good (20/25)

Product Link: https://www.admmfg.com/mounts?specs=79

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.

During the summer months, time spent on the rage in competition or training can get hot. The Eco Tec Tac T-shirt by TRU-SPEC® provides a lightweight base layer shirt, using a unique blend of recycled materials that is also environmentally friendly.

Debuted at 2019 SHOT Show, the Eco Tec T-shirt is made from a material called REPREVE^® (a polyester blend using recycled plastics), and provides the wearer with a base layer shirt and improved airflow through a mesh gusset along the underarms and sides.

At the neck, the Eco Tec T-shirt has a ribbed crewneck collar to ensure a comfortable fit.

Both sleeves feature a single pen slot that is easily accessible and provides for a place to keep writing aids, pen lights or other similar items.

At the bottom, the hem of the shirt is a split-tail design with extended coverage on the back to prevent pulling when bent over or stretching.

The overall material for the Eco Tec T-shirt is the same four-way stretch material found in other TRU-SPEC 24-7 Series^® clothing items, and offers microbial and moisture wicking properties to help keep the wearer cool. The Eco Tec T-shirt is rated to provide 30+ UV protection.

Available in Silver Tan (featured), Black, Navy, Steel Gray, or Ranger Green the Eco Tec Tac comes in sizes between Small and 4XL.

Product Evaluation Scores:

• Cost – Good (4/5): At an MSRP of $22.95, the Eco Tec Tac T-shirt is one of several shirts in the 24-7 Series^® product line and part of TRU-SPEC’s base layered clothing. Other market alternatives for range t-shirts include 5.11’s Range Ready Performance Shirt ($19.49), Ronin Tactics “Alpha” Shirt ($31), or Velocity Systems BOSS Rugby Shirt ($59). Price for range t-shirts are largely driven by design and material, thus the Eco Tec T-shirt provides a simplified and effective shirt that gives the wearer comfort and breathability at a very affordable cost.
• Comfort – Good (4/5): The Eco Tec T-shirt had a great deal of breathability. The airflow across the shoulders and upper back were immediately notable due to the shirt’s four-way stretch material and mesh gusset. The difference in comparison to a regular cotton t-shirt was apparent as the Eco’s lightweight material felt more flexible, and offered improved moisture wicking (although not completely wicking on an 85-degree day with 60% humidity) over cotton.
• Durability – Average (3/5): While the Eco Tec T-shirt’s four-way material is light and breathable, it had the same level of durability as other range shirts. The polyester would provide some level of durability when worn with other gear, but when pressed against (female) hook-and-loop, the fabric would snag/pull slightly. It’s likely that over time and with sufficient heavy wear/abrasion the Eco Tec T-shirt will likely need to be replaced, but this is common among most shirts for range use.
• Functionality – Good (4/5): While the Eco Tec T-shirt was intended as a base layer t-shirt, and its REPREVE material does provide from some feel-good intentions in its recycled polyester, the shirt provided improvements over other performance t-shirts with its ability to hold pens at an accessible position (forward of the shoulder), and consideration to prevent pulling via its split-tail. Other market alternatives either lack these considerations, or over-invest the shirt’s design in other elements (like sleeve pockets or uniform material on the sleeves).
• Weight – Average (3/5): At a mere 8 ounces, the Eco Tec T-shirt had a similar weight to those of other range or cotton shirts. The REPREVE polyester and weave pattern afforded the shirt to be light and breathable while not making the overall fabric excessively heavy.

Overall Rating – Above Average (18/25)

Product Link: https://www.truspec.com/24-7-series/shirts/mens-eco-tec-tac-t-shirt

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.