High Ground Media, LLC

Developed as a diagnostic training aid, the MantisX Elite is the second generation of the electronic device by Mantis that incorporates all previous models of programming. Its lightweight and compact design allows the shooter to use the device on a handgun, rifle, shotgun, or archery.

Inside the ruggedized polymer housing, the MantisX has a number of precision sensors that measure a variety of behaviors during the firing process to include recoil and draw analysis (if so utilized). The device is sensitive enough to be used with regular ammunition, dry fire, or even airsoft devices.

The MantisX attaches securely to any MIL-STD-1913 rail via an integrated mount on the device’s exterior housing. A QD switch faces forward and allows for easy attaching/removal of the device, while a rear-facing USB port allows for charging of the internal power source when not in use. On the bottom is the Bluetooth sync button with a visual LED light to denote pairing with your enabled device.

When used in conjunction with a holster, the MantisX Elite module itself fits inside the portion of the holster that is allotted for a full-size weapon light. However, because it is not an exact fit, users will note the firearm may not be as secure inside the holster as it is with a weapon light.

The real diagnostic power of the MantisX lies in its application, free for download to any iOS or Android device. When synched via Bluetooth, the MantisX displays real-time individual shooter data in the form of several functions:

• Direction & Magnitude
• Shot-by-Shot Analysis
• Detailed Trace

This functionality is then spread out across 11 different drills built into the Training option of the app that includes; Open Training, Benchmark, Primary/Support Hand Only, Reload Drills, Hostage Drills, and more.

In addition, the MantisX Elite offers a number of assistive training modes and instructor-led courses that are intended to help the individual address noted deficiencies. These are presented as both textual, or come with an assistive video for demonstrative purposes.

The app also allows for a group and leaderboard mode that enables the shooter to compete with friends and fellow team members.

Lastly, the Settings feature of the app allows for the customization of the MantisX for a variety of features to include audible settings, sensor mounting, and overall historical tracking.

Specifications:

• Overall Dimensions: 1.3” (L) x 1” (W) x 0.75” (H)
• Approximate Runtime: 20 hrs. on single charge

The MantisX comes in a variety of models, each with varying degrees of functionality with the Elite being the premier model and only comes in black.

Product Evaluation Scores:

• Cost – Average (3/5): With MantisX having a variety of training devices available within its product line; the Elite version is the most advanced and recent on the market with an MSRP of $249.99 (while its X2 device starts at $99). Obviously the Elite has all the functionality and added applications of other previous models, making it the most inclusive device offered. While there is no direct comparison to the MantisX device on the current market, alternatives for users could be as simple as a pack of dry-fire snap caps ($8), to reactive laser target kit ($110-$350) like those from LaserLyte, or the smart phone Dry Fire Training Kits ($87-$149) from LasterHIT. However, each of these alternatives do not have the ability of giving you the analytical diagnostic feedback as what the MantisX devices are capable of. As such, the top tier MantisX Elite is appropriately (or of average) priced with regards to the overall market of training devices, while the more inexpensive Mantis X2 and other versions being more competitively priced (but with less functionality).
• Comfort – Good (4/5): From a comfort aspect, the MantisX Elite boiled down to how comfortable the device was to use physically, as well as navigate the smart device application. With regards to the Elite device itself, it somewhat mounted easily to any MIL-STD-1913 rail, however some handgun rails (such as on a Gen 5 G19) have a somewhat domed profile, which made for a tight fit to the Elite device (which necessitates a flat picatinny rail profile like on a P226). Thus, users should be aware of this aspect before considering and how the rail of their handgun may play a factor. In both cases (domed or flat rails) the Elite device was still able to be properly mounted and remained secure throughout evaluation. Elsewhere, the smart device application was amazingly easy to navigate, though very in-depth in terms of different means to display shot placement, data analytics, and recommendations for improvement. The extensive training options within the app were appropriately divided so as not to become overwhelming. Yet through it all, the app’s interface was very intuitive and the buttonology flowed easily with some icons sharing commonality to the basic smart device operating system (i.e. an “X” to close, the trashcan option to delete, zoom in/out function, etc.).
• Durability – Excellent (5/5): The electronic device to the MantisX Elite was made with a polymer/ABS shell that enclosed the sensitive electrical measurement devices, which recorded vibration, velocity, and angle. That data was then sent via Wi-Fi to the smart device app for further refinement. Throughout use, the device handled both dry and live-fire, holstering, and general range use (to include magazine changes and barricade shooting) without any indication of cracking, wear, or fatigue at the rail mount. One other notable aspect to the durability of the MantisX Elite was the speed in which the device paired with the smart device, even after prolonged use. This demonstrated that although the device was presented with hard use, it was still able to safeguard the sensitive electronics inside to rapidly enable pairing quickly and consistently.
• Functionality – Excellent (5/5): Functionally after an extensive 30-day evaluation on both pistol and rifle, it was determined that the MantisX Elite offered two distinct roles. The first being that it made practice (regardless of weather or setting) more enjoyable (thus increasing the likelihood of continued training). The ability of the device to distinguish between both live and dry fire behaviors meant one could practice on the range in ideal weather with live fire, or dry fire in the basement or garage when the range was closed due to inclement weather or COVID restrictions. The second role of the MantisX was that it allowed in-depth visualization of the mechanics involved in the individual’s specific shooting style. While yes, you could duplicate this process by examining shot placement and personal videos, with the assistance of a dedicated instructor with years of experience, over the process of endless paid private lessons. But realistically few are willing to dedicate themselves to the more traditional road in an era of technology and analytics, with ammo shortages and time in high demand. Moreover, instructors may find the MantisX more ideal for younger students who identify with data-centric analytics partnered with personal guidance. Elsewhere, it was found that the Elite and its app focused on improvement of fundamental principles (trigger squeeze, grip, sight picture, follow-through, etc.) through multiple drills with time and repetition, whereby it took a minimum of 50 rounds for each drill for the software to really begin delving out the full analytics into the shooter’s performance and behaviors (heeling, anticipation, grip posture, etc.). Thus, over time and following the recommendations on improvement, the shooter did note improvement in performance over the 30-day evaluation specifically on; accuracy, acquisition, and follow-through. The MantisX as a training device doesn’t make one a top-tier competition, A Class shooter specifically because it stresses the core fundamentals that without which other advanced techniques cannot be built. But over time, individuals will be challenged via the in-app drills to improve—and that opens the door for other avenues that are similar to improvement in competition shooting such as; wind sprints, stage planning, multiple transitions and more that have broad application.
• Weight – Excellent (5/5): At an amazingly demure 0.5 ounces, the MantisX Elite did not pull down or otherwise weigh down either handgun or rifle (as that would have negatively affected the sensor analytics) thanks in large part to the polymer housing and lightweight sensor technology. This helped ensure accuracy and that the mechanics of the shooter wasn’t thrown off. Furthermore, the MantisX came in a small, compact foam padded case that was zipper secured to help protect all components during transport. In comparison, the reactive laser target kits (at 1 pound total for all components) like those from LaserLyte, or the smart phone Dry Fire Training Kits (at 1 pound total for all components and excluding wall targets) from LasterHIT all illustrate that comparable systems rely on multiple parts with invariably more weight and bulk that takes up added space.

Overall Rating – Very Good (22/25)

Product Link: https://mantisx.com

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.

As part of its Every Day Carry (EDC) line of products, the Scarab day pack by Grey Ghost Gear is intended to give users a light, all day bag that is ideal for a variety of short-term settings.

Exterior

Made overall from Rip-Stop Nylon for settings when traditional Cordura or other military-type fabrics are not preferred, the Scarab is 100% nylon and an overall dimension of 17.5” (H) x 11” (W) x 7” (D) with a slight domed, low-profile appearance when worn. This gives the Scarab an overall storage space of 1, 037 in³. The material also has the added benefit of being up to 30% lighter than traditional military nylons.

At the front, the Scarab has two overlapping single pockets that are YKK zipper-secured with nylon pull-tabs, capped in a polymer pressure point. This allows for a low-profile appearance with the flexibility and positive control of opening or closing.

From the left (being the top most pocket), the first front pocket has an interior space of approximately 12” (H) x 6” (W). Inside it includes a nylon band (reinforced by a rubberized plastic base) that has two segments for pocketknives or other clip-type accessories, and a polymer key hook. At the bottom is an angled 6” envelope pouch.

From the right (and under the first), the second front pocket has an interior space of 17.5” (H) x 11” (W). The interior includes a large 9” (H) x 9.5” (W) hook-and-loop (female) field for mounting an associated EDC gun holster (not included) and/or other accessories. Below that is a 9.5” wide envelop pouch for note pads, a pen sleeve, and accessory pouch.

The back of the Scarab features extensive 1” thick, open-cell foam padding along two sides to create a central ventilation passage down the middle. This helps in airflow and heat dissipation. The shoulder straps themselves also have open-cell foam padding with a cross-yolk band of material at the top for stability and doubles as a carrying handle, and adjustable sliding buckles at the bottom.

The Scarab also includes a detachable rain cover that is hidden in a zipper-secured pocket on the bottom. This rain cover has an elastic outer band to maintain a secure hold over the day pack.

Interior

The main storage area inside the Scarab is a full-sized space and accessed via dual zippers with nylon pull-tabs. The tabs themselves are capped in a polymer pressure point that is contoured to the fingertip for tactile sensation. The zipper line is also water resistant with a protective casing to prevent moisture saturation.

Inside the main storage space is a 15” mesh and padded pocket for a laptop, notebook, or other sensitive item. Opposite on the interior, at the top is a zipper-secured elastic mesh pocket that allows items inside to still be seen for easy recognition. Near the bottom are two 4” (W) envelope pockets (reinforced with adjustable nylon straps) for rifle magazines, water bottles, power banks or other electronics.

The Scarab is available in Black Diamond/Grey Heather (featured), Multicam (featured), Black Diamond/Black Heather, Black Diamond/Black, and Coyote Brown.

Product Evaluation Scores:

• Cost – Good (4/5): At a cost between $108.99-$131.99 (color dependent) the Scarab is about the size of an assault pack, with all the low-profile appearance of a non-descript EDC backpack. Made from a lighter Rip-Stop nylon, the Scarab allows the user to store enough for a light day out on the town, out on the range, or the trails while still having the essentials at hand. Close market alternatives would be Triple Aught Design’s Axiom 24 ($365), GoRuck’s 20L RUCKER ($129), 5.11’s COVERT Backpack ($89.49), or Helikon-Tex’s EDC Bag ($59). Fact is the more exotic materials, that maintain a low outward tactical appearance, cost more and while some inexpensive EDC packs maintain that role—their outward design still screams “tactical”. As such, while the Scarab is toward the upper tier of cost, for what you get in design and material places it at a good price point.
• Comfort – Good (4/5): From a comfort aspect, the Scarab had sufficient padding along the back and shoulder straps that ensured that the wearer did not feel pressure from the contents, nor pinch in the arms/shoulders. Both sides of the back panel had a thick, deep padding that allowed the airflow channel down the center to mitigate some of the heat built up/trapped under the pack while walking. The shoulder straps themselves are wide enough apart that it allowed for good comfort across the chest. The only drawback noted here was a lack of a sternum strap to help maintain the chest straps in a secure fashion, nor elastic cuffs on the draw strap to control excess material. All YKK zippers functioned smoothly and did not bind nor pinch taking turns. For a day’s wear, the Scarab performed well and did not fatigue the wearer nor prove cumbersome.
• Durability – Excellent (5/5): The Scarab was made from the same nylon Rip-Stop material as many tactical and weather-resistant clothing. The purpose was to prevent gouges, tears, or cuts—and when/if that material was then the compromised threading would only be limited to that small segment and not further fray. Throughout evaluation keys, gear, cameras, guns, water bottles and other items were all carried or moved over the material. At no point did any material fray nor become compromised. Some over-threading was noted, but easily removed. Throughout the bag, double-line and bartack stitching was noted along all zippers, shoulder straps, and other key stressor points that helped ensure longevity while being carried, transported, or thrown around.
• Functionality – Average (3/5): Functionally, the Scarab was intended to serve as a small 24-hour pack, one with the EDC in mind. The overlapping front pockets did do well to carry the smaller essentials, including a G19 with two spare magazines that did not excessively print. One thing to note is that only the right-side pocket has the hook-and-loop field essential for mounting a holster/magazines, thus when the pack is slung to the front for immediate access, it limits the user to only a left-handed draw. In order to get a right-handed draw, you have you fully remove the pack and spin it around to access the correct pocket. Grey Ghost Gear may want to consider adding hook-and-loop fields to both front pockets to allow for the use of ambidextrous draw. Otherwise, the Scarab had good internal pockets for light use, and perhaps could have benefited if the zipper line for the main storage compartment had extend fully to the bottom of the bag to allow it to lay open. Users may want to note that while the rain cover is stored in the bottom of the bag, it does occupy a small amount of space in the bottom of the interior and may not allow the pack to relax sufficiently to stand up when placed on the floor or under a desk. The rain cover can be easily removed and alleviate this issue.
• Weight – Excellent (5/5): Weighing in at just 32 ounces, the Scarab owed a large portion of its relative light weight to its Rip-Stop material and minimal hardware that is considerably lighter than traditional nylons. That material and open-cell padding ensured that the Scarab was durable, functional, and comfortable throughout the day and regardless of the items carried. In contrast, the Axiom (37.6 ounces), 20L RUCKER (43.2 ounces), COVERT Backpack (48 ounces), or Helikon-Tex’s EDC Bag (38.44 ounces) all illustrate that the Scarab is among the lightest of these day packs in similar size, and gave it an excellent scoring.

Overall Rating – Good (21/25)

Product Link: https://greyghostgear.com/products/scarabdaypack

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.

Continuing its efforts in operational support; the 100oz Reload Hydration Backpack by T3 Gear enables the end-user to utilize the hydration backpack in either a stand-alone configuration, or as an assault-style support backpack.

Introduced in 2015, the Reload Hydration Backpack (RHB) is made from 500D solution-dyed Cordura nylon, and has an overall dimension of 17” (H) x 9” (W) x 4” (D). It is squared at the top, and uses minimal binding tape (to seal raw edges) where applicable. All genuine YKK zippers utilize nylon pull-tabs throughout the backpack.

Exterior

On the front and starting at the top, the RHB has three 1” wide hook-and-loop (female) bands stitched into MOLLE-compatible spacing and for attaching identification or morale patches. These bands are on the exterior of a 6.5” (H) x 8” (W) x 2” (D) accessory pouch. In addition, a fourth 1” wide nylon MOLLE band enables additional pouches (not included) to be attached as well. The accessory pouch itself is secured via a three-side YKK zipper with dual shuttles to allow maximum access to the pocket’s interior with over-molding fabric to prevent moisture penetration along the enclosure.

At the bottom of the front is a larger 8” (H) x 9” (W) x 2.5” (D) secondary accessory pouch with three nylon bands on the exterior that are MOLLE-compatible for attaching additional pouches or accessories. The interior of the secondary accessory pouch is accessed by a dual-shuttle, YKK zipper (opening along the upper three sides) with over-molding fabric to prevent moisture penetration along the enclosure.

The sides of the RHB are unremarkable in order to keep a minimum profile between the shoulders.

At the top of the RHB is a 7.5” wide, open-end envelope pouch positioned behind the top front accessory pouch that is secured via hook-and-loop. This enclosure can be opened to accommodate removable, dual AR rifle magazine pouches with shock cord retention (included).

The backpanel of the RHB has two contoured and slightly tapered, 2.75” wide shoulder straps that are anchored at the top and bottom of the backpanel itself. The shoulder straps are thinly padded, with five elastic nylon bands (each side) for running hydration tubing or comms cabling, with an adjustable sternum strap (with multiple nylon webbing loops). Anchored into the top of the shoulder straps is a carrying handle made from nylon webbing.

The backpanel also includes two open-cell padded sections that are approximately ¼” thick and allot for a ventilation channel between the two to allot for heat mitigation and circulation.

The top of the backpanel also includes a pass-through slot for hydration tubes or comms cables, which is in turn covered by an elastic nylon band to protect the interior from moisture penetration.

On the bottom of the RHB is a single drainage grommet for the main interior storage space.

Interior

The interior of the RHB is accessed at the top via a three-sided, dual-shuttle YKK zipper line that allows nearly the upper half of the pack to fold open and grant access to the interior.

The interior is unremarkable with no added features, and has a hook-and-loop retention band at the top for securing any appropriate-sized sized hydration bladder.

The 3-Day Hydration Backpack is available in Multicam (featured), Ranger Green, Coyote, Multicam, and Black.

Product Evaluation Scores:

• Cost – Good (4/5): With its list price of $214.99, the Reload Hydration Backpack (RHB) is comprised of Cordura nylon, genuine YKK zippers for the accessory pockets, and extensive MOLLE fields for attaching additional pockets or accessories. While it is slightly larger in storage volume than T3 Gear’s MOLLE Assault Backpack ($159.99), market alternatives to the RHB would be the 24 Hour Assault Pack, Fixed Shoulder  ($143) by Velocity Systems, the Gunfighter 14 ($255) from Mystery Ranch, and the Fight Light Modular Operator Pack ($290) from Tactical Tailor. Thus, as the only design of the listed alternates that allowed immediate access to spare magazines, the RHB is of a good value on the current market for its materials and design.
• Comfort – Average (3/5): From a comfort aspect; the RHB was a medium, stand-alone pack (with associated MOLLE webbing) worn over an outer layer. The fixed shoulder pads had a thin layer of closed-cell foam running the length of the strap, which gave it an appropriate (or average) level of comfort, but did not become excessively bulky while worn over other shoulder straps from a plate carrier or chest rig. Likewise, the backpanel had a similar layer of closed-cell foam padding, in two sections, with an air channel between the two to mitigate heat/moisture that was somewhat negated by the carrier’s back panel. The RHB’s design lends to the pack comfort features not intended to augment other Line 2 gear, but were better suited to be worn with chest rigs or as a stand-alone pack. The YKK zippers functioned smoothly, and without binding or cross-threading when taking the corner turns. When fully loaded, the weight of the RHB was carried exclusively in the upper torso. Perhaps the only negative observation noted during use was the removable waist strap was unpadded and was more suited to keep the pack secure to the waist, rather than assisting to mitigate the weight of the pack.
• Durability – Excellent (5/5): Throughout the RHB’s design, there was extensive use of bartack/reverse stitching throughout, as well as double and X-pattern reinforcement at all key stress points. That included added durability to the shoulder straps, the pack’s pockets, and all MOLLE/PALS webbing. The RHB was designed for field use and direct support to personnel. The durability of its 500D Cordura and stitching helped ensure it handled a variety of items with varying dimensions, weight, hard corners, ammo, hydration bladder, and other gear easily.
• Functionality – Average (3/5): Functionally the RHB performed appropriately (or of average) with regards to storing items in its pouches or main storage compartment. The additional exterior ammo pouches gave immediate access to rifle magazines by those in support of the end user, but were not accessible by the wearer unless the pack was removed. The main storage area does accommodate the 100oz hydration bladder appropriately when full, with the pass-through slot providing easy access. The largest functional detractor to the RHB was the lack of MOLLE attachment on the backpanel (for attaching to a plate carrier) and the fixed shoulder straps. These aspects limited the RHB to a more suitable backpack role or in conjunction with a chest rig, rather than as an assault support pack—as many in today’s professional fields run such packs directly attached to carriers to minimize bulk and excess weight. T3 Gear could easily modify the design of the RHB accordingly to improve the function of the RHB to meet both needs.
• Weight – Good (4/5): Weighing in at 1.13 pounds, the RHB kept excess material and weight to a minimal, while still offering reinforced stitching, additional storage, and immediate magazine access over the market’s current contemporaries. In contrast, the MOLLE Assault Backpack (1.07 pounds) by T3, the 24 Hour Assault Pack, Fixed Shoulder (0.99 pounds) by Velocity Systems, the Gunfighter 14 (1.91 pounds) from Mystery Ranch, and the Fight Light Modular Operator Pack (1.75 pounds) from Tactical Tailor all demonstrate that the Reload Hydration Backpack is ounces lighter than some of the listed alternatives and a good overall weight for its design and the current market.

Overall Rating – Above Average (19/25)

Product Link: https://www.t3gear.com/t3-100oz-reload-hydration-backpack/

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.