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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.

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Ops Core FAST XR Helmet: Advanced Protection for Those On the Line

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).

Exterior

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.

Interior

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.

Performance

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:

ProjectileMinimum 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, 124gr1400120010951018
9mm x 18mm SJLC, 105 gr10171048913846
.44 Mag SWCGC, 240gr1430145513121178
.44 Mag JHP, 240 gr1430121011021024
7.62mm x 25mm SJLC, 86gr14751450//
7.62mm x 39mm LC, 123gr2400234921752008
.40S&W GDHP, 180 gr10251025988928
* V50: The BL(Pass) testing standard, or BL(P), marks the velocity at which 50% of rounds tested penetrate the armor. Rounds are shot sequentially in ever increasing velocity until the 50/50 rating is attained. The test distance for the BL(P) varies for both handgun (5m) threats and rifle (15m) measured from bore to armor.
** Velocity data varies per manufacturer, and by variance of components (i.e. gunpowder) which all yield different performance. The data represented is the highest velocity data identified in research, for that specific standard caliber, but not in a magnum or high-pressure load.

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:

  • Cost – Average (3/5): The FAST XR has an MSRP of $2,100 which makes it one of the newest and most expensive helmets on the market (second only to Ops Core’s RF1 helmet at $3,249) The FAST series of helmets are specifically designed for Special Operations and incorporate the latest materials (polyethylene and Aramid) and technology to offer protection tested to IIIA NIJ standards, as well as protection against additional rifle threats commonly faced overseas. In comparison, the EXFIL ($1205.08) by Team Wendy, and the ATE ($699) from Hard Headed Veterans are designed for law enforcement or civilian use, and use more traditional materials tested only to NIJ IIIA standards. To date, neither EXFIL or ATE are rated against rifle threats and only Ops Core offers this capability. Thus, for the everyday civilian consumer, the XR offers a fair market value for its cutting edge materials and advanced protection—however professionals or units needing it for more direct purposes may find it as a good value that addresses more advanced threats commonly found overseas and in duty. Thus as a balance for evaluation, the XR in this review is given a score between the two (average) whereby the specific end-user can determine if the cost in performance for the XR matches their mission needs.
  • Comfort – Good (4/5): From the comfort perspective, the XR incorporates two design aspects that gave it a good level of comfort with minimal excess bulk or material. The first being the open-cell foam padding segments inside the liner of the XR that did a very good job at padding the interior of the helmet and giving the wearer a soft degree of comfort. The ability to swap out padded segments for thinner or thicker padding segments also meant that the wearer was able to find a customized solution that fits them best. The second element was the low-profile OCC dial that adjusted the interior retention band to find a solid hold on the head. The OCC dial itself did not have a tactile or audible click to it, but simply slid smoothly and adjusted the band as desired with no modification needed. The OCC dial was an improvement over other brands that have a ratcheting dial design and necessitates resetting the dial to loosen. Other aspects like the ventilation holes did provide some mitigation of heat (though sweating during extended wear and dynamic movement was still experienced), and the sliding buckles for the chin strap did retain a solid hold and did not slip or fail to keep its position.
  • Durability – Excellent (5/5): The durability of the XR really came down to the excellent performance characteristics of the Aramid material inside the helmet. This material has been known by its more common name of Kevlar from the DuPont company, and that material has been in production for decades with a proven track record for long-term and stable durability. It also gives the overall helmet a high degree of heat resistance and the obvious ballistic characteristics. Throughout evaluation and dynamic movements, the helmet’s seams/edges/stress points showed zero signs of wear, nor did the suspension/retention system show any signs of fraying or slippage. The exterior of the XR shell was sprayed in a textured matte paint to maintain its low visibility and negate any reflective aspect of light off the helmet itself. Some minimal surface marring on the exterior was noted from contact to the ground and other hard surfaces, but nothing that penetrated to the underlying material and well within the expected level of wear.
  • Functionality – Good (4/5): Functionally, the FAST XR was a helmet that did what was intended, it provided the head with sufficient surface area to protect the end-user. But the XR had a padding and suspension system that also provided a good level of flexibility for the wearer to find a comfortable and tailored level of retention and wear. Additionally, the integrated channel inside the Lux Liner was appropriately sized for most common over-the-head hearing protection, such as the AMP, and allowed the wearer to comfortably wear hearing protection without the assistance of rail mounts. The other aspect that set the XR above other helmets was its added protection value for 7.62×39 threats and other calibers commonly threatening service members overseas. These threats are not part of the official NIJ IIIA profile, nor has the XR been tested against ballistic threats found domestically (such as the 5.56 or .223 with a velocity of between 3,200 ft/s (at bore) to 2,800 ft/s at 100 yards), but Ops Core has conducted testing on those overseas ballistic characteristics and passed DoD testing against them. Lastly, while the hook-and-loop panels on the exterior are smaller than other helmet brands, the greater number of them around the crown gave the end-user more options for locations on which to attach accessories and other items. It should be noted that in its description of the XR, at the time of this review, Ops Core has a typo in its listed ballistic profile for the XR whereby it states the helmet has been tested against 7.62×23 (an exceedingly rare caliber) and 7.62×39, when in fact this ballistic chart should read like other FAST helmets tested to the 7.62×25 and 7.62×39 caliber projectiles.
  • Weight – Average (3/5): Weighing in between 2.68 pounds (Medium) and 3.11 pounds (2XL), the evaluated XR was a size Large and weighed in at 2.81 pounds. This weight accounted for both the ballistic exterior shell, the shock absorbing liner, and the comfort padding with chin strap on the interior. In contrast, the Team Wendy EXFIL (size large at 2.6 pounds), and the ATE (size large at 3.0 pounds) by HHV demonstrate that while various companies differ in materials and design, the XR has a difference in terms of ounces to the market and has an appropriate (or of average) weight. It should be noted that, as before, while the XR is able to keep its weight within an appropriate range to its competitors—it does offer an increased threat protection profile that, as of this review, others do not.

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.

Cloud Defensive REIN 2.0: Pushing Through the Dark

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:

  • Cost – Good (4/5): With its list price of $379.99 the REIN 2.0 represents the current efforts of Cloud Defensive to offer a leading 1,100 lumen product to the weapon light industry, and an advancement in the original REIN design. It incorporates many of the design features and functions that are long held as the “gold standard” for such accessories. The materials and tail switch technology, combined with the included rail switch (that many sell separate), translate to the REIN 2.0 being at a good price point within the market. In comparison:
    • The original Cloud Defnsive REIN: $279.99 w/included rail switch @1,400 lumen
    • The Surefire 600U Scout Light, w/SR07 rail switch: $481 @1,000 lumen
    • The Modlite PLHv2-18650, w/Surefire Tailcap (sold separately), and Modlite rail switch (also sold separately): $443 @1,350 lumen
    • The Streamlight Protac Rail Mount HL-X Long Gun Light: $129.99 w/included rail switch @1,000 lumen
  • Comfort – Good (4/5): The 2.0 threw a warm-toned 1,100 lumens that, unlike the blinding “white” light from other weapon lights, the 2.0’s emissivity didn’t flood a room, hallway, nor blind the user going back to them in an enclosed environment. In contrast to the REIN, the 2.0 did throw a whiter light that some end users may find more preferable over the warmer tone. However, the result for both the REIN and 2.0 was a lower intensity on the eyes in dark environments, but still illuminated the space or target(s) at a greater distance. The rail-mount switch also had a comfortable tactile delineation between the buttons for the momentary ON/OFF pad, and the continual ON/OFF pad that could be easily recognized without looking. Users should note installation of the rail-mount switch was a bit tricky because the cable is thicker and somewhat stiffer than other brands, but by utilizing the early out or full cable channel—a comfortable medium was found. The tailcap switch of the 2.0 is similar to the original design in that it combined the momentary ON/OFF halfway down, and then the continual ON/OFF audible/tangible click at the bottom that was easily manipulated in conjunction with, or as a backup to, the rail-mount switch. However, the use of the 2.0’s picatinny rail mount put the weapon light exclusively at a direct 3 or 9 o’clock position only which could prove a reach for some users to operate the tailcap switch. Aftermarket rail mounts are available that can place the REIN 2.0 in a more comfortable position, but sold separately. One added feature of the REIN 2.0 was that the components, specifically the light emitter, are backwards compatible to the original REIN and thus allowed the end-user to find a comfortable outlet level that best worked with them and their needs.
  • Durability – Average (3/5): From a durability aspect, the REIN 2.0 was made from the same 6061-T6 aluminum as the original. And with Cloud Defensive’s lifetime warrantee, the 2.0 had an overall excellent level of strength to resist impact and abrasion (also reflected in its ANSI/PLATO FL-1 shock testing and IPX8 waterproofing). The weakest point of the actual 2.0 design itself was the 3mm-thick sacrificial emitter lens that can not be replaced without replacing the complete front light element. The REIN 2.0 unit was repeatedly dropped from a height of approximately 6’ onto raw concrete. The objective was to evaluate the 2.0 against impacts it may encounter in the field. That said, the bezel of the REIN 2.0’s light head was what took a majority of the drop-impact against the concrete, with only minimal surface marring—none of which penetrated the lower layers of metal. The switch module itself was made from a proprietary glass-filled nylon and epoxy blend that made it resistant to impact. However, research has shown that the switch mounting hardware for the 2.0 was modified slightly from the previous version (the 2.0’s switch sides are a slightly thinner polymer). This design change (combined with improper mounting by the end-user) resulted in some individuals damaging the sides of the switch mount by overtightening (the recommend spec torque is 8lb.) using improper tools resulting in the hardware (specifically the nut) dug into the polymer sides and warped (or “bowed”)—thus allowing the switch to easily pop off the rail. Increasing the thickness of the sides, or providing aluminum side bars would allative the issues for those who may want that added level of security and would be a suggested point of improvement to Cloud Defensive for future designs.
  • Functionality – Good (4/5): Functionally, the REIN 2.0 offered a number of improvements from its predecessor based on the customer feedback. The biggest functional difference was in the more streamline light emitter head. This design, while lower in lumen than the original REIN, was higher in candela and allowed the light wavelength to penetrate ambient photonic barriers (lights at/between/behind the target) and interference (smoke/fog/debris) to better effect. Other aspects like in-line mounting with a rear-facing pressure switch, and the rail-mounted control switch were more consistent aspects that end-users would find appropriate for its design. One notable element was that the 2.0 had a solid central illumination point, but the radius of diffused light around it had a definitive, controled boundary/hard line and didn’t simply spill outward in all directions (as opposed to the performance of a Surefire that floods an area). While this meant that all the available light was directional and would only illuminate what you wanted, it also meant that anything on the periphery wouldn’t—so something for end users to be aware of. Meanwhile, from a completely dead battery, the 18650 battery took approximately six hours to fully charge. The ability to adjust the cable output, both on the tail cap and on the rail switch, translated to a very clean and adjustable cable management with no excess, and no need for handguard bands. It should be noted that the retention ring for the rear switch module of the REIN 2.0 does not share the same threading size as the original REIN, and thus is not cross-compatible.
  • Weight – Good (4/5): Overall, the complete REIN 2.0 kit (Light, battery, mount, and rail switch) weighed in at 7.25 ounces (while providing 1,100 lumens). In the case of the REIN 2.0 its weight was negligibly noticeable, but neither distracting nor pulled on the front end of the rifle during recoil impulse. In contrast, the original REIN (8.54 ounces for 1400 lumens) was the only alternative weapon light that weighted more than the REIN 2.0. The Surefire 600U Scout Light (4.8 ounces), the Modlite PLHv2-18650 (5.03 ounces), and the Streamlight Protac Rail Mount HL-X Long Gun Light (6.09 ounces) weighed in less than the REIN 2.0.  Most of these market alternatives did not come with an included rail mount and showed that while the REIN does offer superior light output, it does so at a slightly heavier weight.

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.

Hazard 4 Multi-Pistol Carrier: Just For The Pews

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.

IMG_4984

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.

IMG_4979

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.

IMG_4990

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:

  • CostExcellent (5/5): Priced at $115.99, the Grayman MPC evaluated was made from a polyester nylon that gave the MPC’s outward appearance a smoother, urban profile. While Black and Coyote are also available, those colors are in a Cordura nylon, and have a more tactical profile at the same cost. In comparison, most traditional range bags do accommodate for multiple pistols and accessories, but are either bulkier or more expensive due to a larger volume of material. While few pistol cases for the size allot for between 6 and 14 handguns to be stored, some comparable market alternatives would be Elite Survival’s Four Gun Pistol Pack ($89.95), or Propper’s Range Bag ($59.99). Additionally, for the number of handguns carried, most cases carrying that number of handguns are hard cases such as by the 15 Pistol Case ($210) by Caseclub. So, for its functionality and size, the MPC is one of the few nylon cases on the market that allots for such versatility and is lightweight enough for transporting handguns.
  • Comfort Average (3/5): While the MPC measures the approximate size of a medium flat-rate shipping box, when empty it was very lightweight and easy to carry/store. Depending on the configuration of the internal dividers, when loaded with handguns, ammo, or accessories the weight was notable but not uncomfortable. The metal hardware/anchoring points validated the MPC’s ability to carry the added weight securely. The removable shoulder strap made carrying a fully-loaded MPC easy, but could have used a padded sleeve (which Hazard does sell a Delux Pad or 2″ Shoulder Strap with Pad separately) to help pad the strap against the shoulder. Similarly, the carrying handles were stitched to form a rounded handle, but it would have been an improvement had a padded cuff been stitched to one that enabled both carrying handles to be joined when transporting.
  • Durability – Good (4/5): With its very clean appearance, the Grayman MPC had a majority of its stitching on the interior lining of the materials, with the only exception being visible X-type stitching on the exterior that reinforced the carrying handles and shoulder strap hardware. The YKK zipper pull tabs felt a little thin, but did not bend or flex. Perhaps the only notable negative to durability was given the color of the interior’s velour, as any carbon and lubricant transferred from after the handguns were fired was easily visible and unavoidable. Over time this transference of debris will become more noticeable. A suggestion for Hazard 4 would be a darker color velour with a high-visibility orange on the bottom would help not make post-range stains as noticeable.
  • Functionality Good (4/5): Functionally, the MPC did a very good job of squeezing all available interior space into the storage of handguns, ammo, or accessories. The bag’s main internal storage compartment, and hook-and-loop dividers were easily configured during evaluation to store; three full-sized handguns, a weapon light, and ten magazines with still space to spare. The MPC’s padded interior and dividers allowed for complete 360-degree protection and ensured each handgun remained separated, and the handguns did not risk contact during transport. The lid storage pocket could ideally fit two compact-sized handguns or accessories, but anything added in it would increase the bulk on the top of the MPC, and crowded the carrying handles. The MPC would be ideal for trainers, or those who want to carry their handguns separate from a range supply bag.
  • Weight Excellent (5/5): At 2.3 pounds (empty) the MPC is very lightweight given its carrying capacity, and even when loaded with associated handguns and accessories was still not uncomfortable either by shoulder strap or carrying handle. Again, as the weight increased, the metal hardware for the shoulder strap proved critical in bearing that weight, as any overloading of the MPC (say loading exclusively ammunition in it) will undoubtedly put pressure at these points. It would have been preferred had the plastic carabiners been the same metal as the anchoring points on the MPC for added strength in carrying the potential weight. In comparison, the weight to other market alternatives included Elite Survival’s Four Gun Pistol Pack (1.6 pounds), or Propper’s Range Bag 3.55 pounds) and the 15 Pistol Case (26 pounds) by Caseclub. However, these alternatives all have different approaches in materials and design, and the differences in weight reflect that. With regards to the MPC, given it has the ability to store up to 14 semi-auto handguns like as in the Caseclub case, its 2.3 pounds is a fraction of the weight but provides an excellent, lightweight case by which to safely transport your handguns.

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.

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