High Ground Media, LLC

As part of its “Urban” product line, the Covert Tactical Jeans by Helikon-Tex were released in early-2021 to provide shooters with a low-vis denim trousers that has real-world application. The Covert Tactical Jeans are made from a 10oz. denim (69% cotton, 27% polyester, 3% rayon, and 1% elastane), and provides a number of traditional elements intent on balancing comfort and function.

Starting at the waist, the Covert Tactical Jeans have eight 50mm (or 1.96in) wide beltloops (two double-loops in the front, one on either side, and four along the back) with an elastic waistband at the rear yolk. These features improve comfort when conducting dynamic movements, with extensive bartack to maintain durability of the materials. The cut of the Covert Tactical Jeans is available as a regular (featured) fit, in a mid-rise waistline. This accounts for a comparable profile to many common civilian denim trousers.

The Covert Tactical Jeans have a hook-and-loop closure, and single-shuttle YKK zipper fly whereby the zipper line itself has enough excess material under it to protect the more sensitive skin areas (i.e. frank and beans) from any accidental pinching.

The two front pockets are a standard pattern, with additional bartack and double line stitching for reinforcement and to account for retention clip items (such as pocket knives). The front pockets further segmented around the sides for rifle magazines or other items. A small interior/concealed pocket is on the inside of both sides of the waistband for pistol magazines, cash, or documents.

The two rear pockets are a wide 9” opening and angled slightly to ensure easy alignment with the hand when reaching behind for the pocket.

The crotch gusset is articulated, with a four-way, flexible panel that provides flexibility to accommodate a variety of shooting stances.

Each pant cuff is single line stitched for reinforcement, and to prevent/limit any fraying or compromise to the material.

The Greyman Covert Tactical Jeans come in denim blue (featured) and sizing runs from a XSmall to 4XL with variance between small, regular, and long inseam.

Product Evaluation Scores:

• Cost – Good (4/5): At the current list price of $87.00 USD, the Covert Tactical Jeans are Helikon-Tex’s take on a low-profile, tactical jeans that also omit some of the obvious “tactical” trademarks (such as external knee pads, hook-and-loop straps, or extravagant fabrics). For the price users get a very durable and functional set of 10oz. denim trousers for the every-day professional life or on the range. Market alternatives to this type of clothing would be the Operatus Tactical Jean ($115 USD) by Viktos, or the Defiance Jeans ($76.99 USD) by Vertx, or the McQuade Lightweight Tactical Jean ($67.99) from Tactical Distributors. There are a multitude of market alternatives that very in price and material, indeed typical men’s jeans run about $100. Among the market, this gave the Covert Tactical Jeans from Helikon-Tex an good level of affordability when considering what it brings to the table from a reputable overseas vendor.
• Comfort – Good (4/5): Worn for a 30-day period, and on several iterations to the range in a variety of stressors, the Covert Tactical Jeans remained extremely flexible and very comfortable. The denim material throughout the trouser proved soft and supportive, and didn’t restrict range of motion. While often the crotch is the point where trousers bind in more extreme movements, the Covert Tactical Jeans had a good level of flex in the gusset to allow for a comfortable range of motion. The one minor negative issue from a comfort aspect to the Covert Tactical Jeans was the hook-and-loop segment above the fly, with some of the hook/loop fabric or corners irritating the underlying skin if not entirely aligned. Perhaps reducing the dimensions of the male-hook material slightly (and not the female) would give more play in spacing. Otherwise, the genuine YKK zipper moved easily and did not bind or cross-thread.
• Durability – Good (4/5): The Covert Tactical Jeans were made from a blend of denim and elastic fabrics that gave the trousers a good level of durability and support. The conditions it was tested in included every-day wear, water, mud, on rock, and on concrete—and aside from usual wear, the material showed little abrasion effect. The trousers were put through three wash cycles and no loose threading or material was noted. Final examination revealed that the jeans had bartack stitching at high-stress points (typically in corners along stitch lines), belt loops, and along the pockets. These all ensured there was no compromise of the stitching or fabric, and if it were to ever become so then it would be limited to the affected area. The only concern was the hook-and-loop segment above the fly, which began curling at the corners (most likely attributed to the heat of the dryer). It could be recommended to Helikon-Tex to run stitching along the perimeter of the segment, and again at the edge to prevent this effect. Additionally, end-users could also allow the jeans to air-dry and possibly avoid the issue as well.
• Functionality – Good (4/5): Functionally, the number of pockets on the Covert Tactical Trousers was extremely useful, re-enforced, and well placed. Most could easily accommodate odd-sized items up to/like a rifle or pistol magazine, and it was noted the mid-pockets (on the hip) and rear pockets allowed for good alternative locations for such items. Having no button at the top of the fly was a definite improvement as it alleviated any concern over tearing the button off, or it digging into the stomach from a battle belt. The fly itself had a single shuttle, and would have been a good feature to have dual shuttles for ease of access while wearing gear. As noted in the Comfort section, the elastic material woven into the gusset of the jean’s ensured the material remained flexible during movement, but not so much as to detract from the jean’s lower profile. Perhaps one suggestion for Helikon-Tex to improve the Covert Tactical Jeans would be to add some measure of padding along the waistband in addition to the elastic segments. One negative functional aspect end-users should note is the hook-and-loop segment above the fly; it has the hook (male) fabric oriented outwards (probably to avoid chafing the skin), but it is very grabby and will snag/pull shirts, coats, gear, and even the lint in the dryer. Be sure to put the hook-and-loop fabric together before placing into the wash.
• Weight – Good (4/5): Weighing in at 1.75 pounds for a size XL, the Covert Tactical Jeans had a good amount of blended denim and elastic material that afforded for full range of motion through the waist and thigh. The chosen density of denim gave the jeans added resistance to abrasion that could be expected on the range or in daily wear, and limit potential tears to the stitching. In comparison, the Operatus Tactical Jean (1.63 pounds) by Viktos, or the Defiance Jeans (1.48 pounds) by Vertx, or the McQuade Lightweight Tactical Jean (0.73 pounds) from Tactical Distributors. These alternatives illustrate that the Covert Tactical Jeans by Helikon-Tex are placed very well amid the market, and have a good overall weight for their design and fabric.

Overall Rating – Good (20/25)

Product Link: https://www.helikon-tex.com/en_usd/sp-ctp-dd-covert-tactical-pants-denim-mid.html

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.

Introduced in 2017, the Kinetic clothing line by Propper apparel is designed as the next evolution in tactical trousers for professional and civilian use.

The Kinetic pants represent a refreshed approach to popular features found in Propper’s traditional tactical trousers that gives the Kinetic a professional appearance with new materials. Constructed of a 6.5oz polyester ripstop (79% polyester / 21% canvas), the material is made from NEXStretch fabric and treated in Teflon to offer a large degree of abrasion and water resistance be it on the job, at the range, or just as an every-day wear.

At the waist, the Kinetic pants have seven 1.5” wide belt loops (four on the front, three on the back) with an elastic slide adjuster on both sides that adds for an extra 2” in the belt line to both sides. The belt line is secured via a simple pass-through plastic button. At the front-most belt loops is also a tab for sunglasses or badge hook. Inside the belt line, the Kinetic has a single bead of silicone that runs the entire length and acts as a shirt stopper. Inside the inseam, the crotch has a minimal gusset for added flexibility. The fly uses genuine YKK zipper and the shuttle comes with a logoized pull tab.

The “classic” cut of the Kinetic pants offer a wide pant-leg from hip to ankle that maximizes maneuverability. It also has the standard four-pocket layout at the waist (two pockets in the front, two hook-and-loop secured pockets in the back), with the front pockets re-enforced to accommodate clip-on items (such as a pocket knife or flashlight).

Each thigh has a 4” wide low-profile pocket that will fit most modern smartphones or a single rifle magazine. Additionally, each leg of the Kinetic features an internally divided cargo pocket (secured via hook-and-loop). Above each cargo pocket is a single pen pocket. The knee is reinforced with a slot on the interior for adding a knee pad to each leg.

The Kinetic comes in Black, Charcoal (featured), Coyote, Khaki, LAPD Navy, Olive, and Sherriff’s Brown (featured) and is sized between 28 to 56 waist, and 30 to 37 inseam.

Product Evaluation Scores:

• Cost – Average (3/5): Designed as the updated version to Propper’s traditional tacical trousers, the Kinetic has an MSRP of $54.99 and includes a thicker polyester blend (both in percentage and weight) that is impregnated with Teflon to be inexpensive, and provide moderate resistance to abrasion. Some comparable market alternatives would include 5.11’s CDCR Duty Cargo Pants ($52.49) or Stryke ($74.99), Vertx’s Phantom LT 2.0 ($58.95), or Tru-Spec’s 24-7 Pro Flex ($59.99). At its current list price, there are tactical trousers (such as by Crye) that far exceed the Kinetic in terms of cost, as well as some trousers (Condor) that are cheaper. As is, and among those competitors noted, the Kinetic is of median (or average) cost to the consumer for a light tactical pant.
• Comfort – Good (4/5): With a gusset in the crotch and inseam, the NEXStretch’s flexibility for more dynamic body movements (lunges and taking a knee) was greater than the HLX, and not restrictive in the upper thigh and inner groin to any notable degree. The overall material of the Kinetic felt heavier than the HLX pants, and the Kinetic felt more like the “classic” cut. The front pockets had an interior polyester lining on the bottom, and soft fleece on the top and were a nice improvement on comfort over other tactical trousers. The hook-and-loop-secured rear pockets felt nice and would kept the contents in place but the flaps could be easily opened. The inner lining of the low-profile pockets were also lined with fleece; however, it should be noted that the low-profile pocket will accommodate a rifle magazine or cell phone—but not a cell phone in a protective case.
• Durability – Good (4/5): The Kinetic had extensive bartack throughout the pants and reinforced stitching was noted at key stress points to include at the belt loops, and pockets. The machining process for this also left a lot of loose or errant threads along the belt line that had to be removed or burnt. The Teflon application of the material did keep some moisture off (poured water) thanks to its repellent properties, but the long-term application of this treatment could not be tested. It is likely the Teflon will keep some aspects of moisture, such as rain or mud, off for a time, but not if submerged. The YKK zipper slid easily and did not cross-thread. Elsewhere, the plastic threaded button that secures the belt line was of some concern, as it felt flimsy and with its stitching could easily pop off if a gun belt or other item were pressed/pulled against it. From a durability aspect, the only thing recommended to Propper for improvement would to make the belt line button metal and integrated into the material, similar to what is on the HLX. This would make it more duty applicable.
• Functionality – Good (4/5): The Kinetic had many of the more obvious tactical aspects that the HLX did not, specifically, the inclusion of cargo pockets. As noted, there were a number of lose threads in and around the belt loops that was purely aesthetic. Elsewhere, the cargo and rear pockets were secured via hook-and-loop, and were easily opened (something that if grappling could result in spillage of contents). The elastic sliders on the belt line added up to 2” of length to each side, and made it extremely comfortable. It is recommended that consumers consider ordering at, or one size below, their actual pant sizes as Propper seems to run a little on the plus side in measurement, and the elastic sliders accommodated for this. The NEXStretch gusset was wider on the Kinetic than the HLX’s gusset material, and the improvement over flexibility in the upper thigh and crotch was apparent. Minimal areas of recommended improvement on functionality for Propper would be to change out the belt line button for the reasons noted above in the durability section.
• Weight – Average (3/5): Coming in at 1.98 pounds, the Kinetic was very lightweight, something attributed to the polyester and Teflon blend of its materials that balanced abrasion resistance with its NEXStretch flexibility. In comparison, the 5.11’s CDCR Duty Cargo Pants (2 pounds) or Stryke (2 pounds), Vertx’s Phantom LT 2.0 (0.7 pounds), or Tru-Spec’s 24-7 Pro Flex (1.6 pounds) all demonstrate the diversity in weight of tactical trousers, and put the Kinetic’s weighted materials on average within the market.

Overall Rating – Above Average (18/25)

Product Link: https://www.propper.com/mens/pants/tactical-pants/propper-kinetic-pant-mens.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.

 

Since the first introduction of its polymer magazines in 2007, Magpul has continued to innovate and lead the accessory market with its unique blend of magazines, stocks, and handguards. Today Magpul is as synonymous with the firearms industry as the firearms themselves. The current model of polymer magazines (or PMags) is divided between Generation M2 (Gen2) and Generation M3 (Gen3) PMags with each offering something unique.

Gen M2 MOE (Window)

Introduced in 2009; the 30-round Gen M2 (seen as Revision-“M”) first was available in a standard non-window variant, then by 2013 was re-designated the “MOE” with an improved polymer blend and a new side window option. The Gen M2 MOE (or Gen2 MOE) continued Magpul’s legacy from its first generation of polymer, crush and impact-resistant magazines by improving its design and function to make a superior product.

From the top, the Gen2 MOE features an anti-tilt, self-lubricating follower and stainless steel spring ensure consistent feeding of ammunition. Slots at the rear help seat stripper clips guides to speed in the loading of ammunition.

The Gen2 MOE has a consistent curve throughout the length of the magazine to aid in reliable function. Its overtravel stop ensures the Gen2 MOE cannot be forced past the magazine catch and into an open chamber for both shooter and weapon safety. Along the bottom half the ribbed grip surface includes a front and rear textured surface for tactile control. Windows on both sides provide immediate visual recognition of ammo count.

At the bottom the removable floorplate is flared to enable positive control during magazine handling. Dust covers for the Gen2 MOE are sold separately in packs of three and will clip to the bottom of the floorplate.

The Gen M2 MOE is only available in a flat black (featured).

Specifications:

• For use with Colt-spec AR15/M4 firearms
• Rated for 5.56 x 45 ammunition
• Not compatible with SA80 and HK416, or similar platforms

Product Link: https://magpul.com/firearm-accessories/pmags/ar15-m4-m16/pmag30ar-m4genm2moe-window.html?mp_global_color=118

Gen M3 Window

Coinciding with the evolution of the Gen2 MOE, in 2012 Magpul released its 30-round Gen M3 (or Gen3). This release included design additions that give the shooter improved function during handling as well as improved ergonomics. These features aided Magpul’s Gen3 to be selected as an acceptable magazine for combat use by the USMC in a public announcement 2016.

Again, starting at the top the Gen3 features many of the same aspects of the Gen2 MOE with some improvements. The anti-tilt, self-lubricating follower is of a somewhat reduced design, yet the stainless steel spring and stripper clips guides remain the same as the Gen2 MOE. The Gen3 features thicker side walls and modified magazine dimensions for greater compatibility with non-Colt-spec rifles.

The Gen3 has the same consistent curve throughout the length of the magazine that accounts for the tapered case of the .223/5.56 cartridge, and aids in reliable function. One notable change in the Gen3 is the overtravel stop on the spine has been significantly bolstered to prevent any accidental/forceful overriding of the magwell. In addition, the Gen3 now features a more pronounced magazine latch catch and “ramp” on the side to improve compatibility.

The ribbed grip surface is more pronounced on the Gen3, and has aggressive front and rear textured surfaces not included on the Gen2 MOE. Translucent windows on both sides are the same anti-glare material as the Gen2 MOE, and still provide immediate visual recognition of ammo count.

One new inclusion on the Gen3 is a paint pen matrix on the bottom sides of the magazine’s body. This allows for easy and clear visual recognition of markings based on the user’s needs.

The removable floorplate is also significantly redesigned for a slimmer profile while ensuring proper magazine handling. This helps ensure stacking of multiple magazines is possible in all pouch manufacturers. Dust covers for the Gen3 are included with the magazine but will not attach to the base of the floorplate

The Gen M3 is available in a flat black (featured) and medium coyote tan.

Specifications:

• Compatible with Colt-spec AR15/M4 platforms, HK416/MR556A1/M27 IAR, British SA-80, FN SCARN MK 16/16S, and others
• For use with Colt-spec AR15/M4 firearms
• Rated for 5.56 x 45 ammunition

Product Link: https://magpul.com/firearm-accessories/pmags/ar15-m4-m16/pmag30ar-m4genm3window-5-56×45.html?mp_global_color=118

Product Evaluation Scores:

• Cost – Good (4/5): With a minimal price difference, the Gen2 MOE ($15.95) and Gen3 ($17.95) both offer the Magpul legacy in resilience and durability. In many aspects both magazines are fundamentally identical, with only minor differences meant to improve more non-essential elements to the function of the Gen3 product. That said, the price of the Gen3 reflects those elements such as; the paint pen matrix, enhanced external control elements, and a re-designed floorplate and follower. In comparison, other magazines include Lancer’s L5AWM ($16.30), Hexmag’s Series 2 ($16.99), and Daniel Defense’s DD Magazine ($21.00) that would put the Gen2 MOE at a good cost, and the Gen3 in an appropriate (or average) price point among its competitors.
• Comfort – Excellent (5/5): From a comfort aspect, the Gen3 clearly had the more tactile feel to it over the Gen2 MOE, due in part to its enhanced grip and textured surfaces. This provided for some additional control, particularly in the front of the magazine as it was driven into the magwell. The translucent window and round marking indicators in both the Gen2 MOE and Gen3 offered the same level of clarity to visually track round count within the magazine. The feed springs to both magazines also had the same approximate level of potential energy that ensured consistent feeding. Disassembly in the Gen2 MOE was a little more challenging then the Gen3, likely attributed to the additional bulk of the floorplate around the edges. Overall for their handling and feel, both the Gen2 MOE and Gen3 felt excellent in the hand and was not restrictive in any sense.
• Durability – Good (4/5): The biggest positive aspect to the durability of Magpul’s Gen2 MOE and Gen3 magazines laid in the polymer’s resiliency (or the ability of the polymer to flex and then return to its pre-determined shape). It’s a careful balance between finding a polymer blend that was flexible enough to sustain the magazine’s shape and integrity, while being neither too pliable or brittle. Three drop tests to each fully-loaded Gen2 MOE and Gen3 magazine were conducted from a height of approx. six feet, with the feed ramps down in an attempt to get a direct strike. In each iteration, despite striking a concrete surface, only 1-2 rounds were typically ejected and the feed lips were never compromised beyond simple surface marring. Internet research found plenty of examples of those who were able to crack/compromise the polymer magazines in various drop tests, but this was often done by manipulating the material’s resiliency aspect (typically by freezing or lowering the ability of the polymer to flex) or by exerting extensive force over time (i.e. repetitive/extensive full auto) beyond normal usage. Magpul magazines have passed the NATO Rough Handling Tests to include droppages from 5 feet from all manner of orientations. It should be noted, much like many other polymer-based products, users should avoid prolonged direct UV exposure to the Gen2 MOE or Gen3 in that it may affect the molecular resiliency of the product (i.e. becomes brittle).
• Functionality – Average (3/5): There was (and remains) some platform compatibility concerns within the applicable range of non-milspec AR lowers for the Gen2 MOE magazine. This often included unique or otherwise non-traditional designs that merge skulls, helms, or warthog designs to the magazine wells and thus had some conflicts with the magazine’s exterior design. Both the Gen2 MOE and Gen3 did fully seat a 30-round magazine with the bolt forward, but it was noted the Gen3 felt slightly tighter against the bolt and may be indicative of minute tolerance differences in the magazine sidewalls. Because of the differences between the Gen2 MOE and Gen3 floorplate geometry, Magpul accessories like Ranger Plates were not interchangeable. Similarly, while the Gen3 had an included dust cover, it did not attach to the floorplate and left the question of “why”? Not many people utilize the cover and those that do I’m sure would have apricated the ability to attach it when not in use. One positive aspect of the Gen3 was its added space for the “31^st round” which wasn’t actually intended for another round, but rather to enable the magazine to be fully loaded with sufficient flex in the spring to fully seat the first round. Aside from that, the paint pen matrix was a nice inclusion as it could allow for easy compatibilization of rounds (like for .223 and 300 BKO) via magazines, though that feature was not tested.
• Weight – Average (3/5): Generally, the weight of the Gen2 MOE and Gen3 magazines were approximate given they both are made from the same polymer material. The Gen2 MOE weighed in at 4.6 ounces (empty) while the Gen3 weighed 5 ounces (empty). Perhaps the heaviest aspect of both magazines was its overall body and the slight weight difference could be explained by the added external features to the Gen3. In comparison, Lancer’s L5AWM (4.8 ounces), Hexmag’s Series 2 (4.6 ounces), and Daniel Defense’s DD Magazine (7 ounces) all demonstrate the variance in weight due to differences in magazine design and material. This placed the Gen2 MOE and the Gen3 within the average weight of the competitors noted.

Overall Rating – Above Average (19/25)

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.