High Ground Media, LLC

The forbidden 507C V2 by Holosun, was the optic that triggered a very short, public legal battle between its parent company, and that of Trijicon who makes the RMR. And while the legal issues were eventually settled; the 507C V2 illustrates how a competitive market, new designs, and robust housing can be made at an inexpensive cost to the consumer—that is, if the competition allows it. Today, while the revised 507C has the “X” designator, the V2 can still occasionally be found in guns stores and private sellers.

Initially released in early 2020, the 507C V2 is designed as a high-quality, open reflex optic for competitive or defensive shooters. It can be mounted to either rifle or handgun for improved cross-compatibility.

The housing of the 507 is made from a single piece of aircraft-grade 7075 T6 Aluminum, giving it a high-degree of shock resistance. All threads and the battery tray are sealed with rubberized O-rings that make the 507 waterproof from moisture. Overall the exterior is in a hard, matte-black anodized finish.

The diode inside the housing is projected on Multi-Coated glass (overall measuring 0.63” (H) x0.91 (L) field of view), and sheltered by the optic’s flared shroud. It projects a Multiple Reticle System via 2MOA dot reticle (intended for pistols), or 32MOA circle (for rifles) based on your needs. The two reticles can thus be combined for best overall application.

Brightness is adjusted by a vertical two-button polymer switch at the front of the optic with 12 levels of intensity (10 for daylight, 2 for Night Vision), while the ON/OFF function is done by press-holding the “+” (ON) or “-“ (OFF). After the litigation between Holosun and Trijicon were settled out of court, the vertical button features of the 507 was changed back to a horizontal configuration.

The CR1632 battery provides approximately 50,000 hours of life on the mid-level (Level 6) intensity and the battery tray itself is accessed via the side of the RDS to facilitate changing power sources while leaving the optic mounted.

The battery is backed up by the 507s Solar Failsafe feature which includes a small solar panel array across the bridge of the optic and sealed in a hardened, clear polymer window. The 507 also includes Holosun’s programmable “Shake Awake” so that after a specified time, if not used the optic automatically powers off, but when jostled (as if picked up or drawn) the optic’s motion sensor immediately powers on.

Specifications:

• Parallax-free
• Unlimited Eye Relief
• Magnification: 1x
• Adjustment per Click: 1 MOA
• Storage Temperature: -40℃ to 70℃
• Working Temperature: -30℃ to 60℃
• Submersion Rating: IP67

The 507C V2 is only available in in black, but does come in a Red or Green reticle option.

Product Evaluation Scores:

• Cost – Good (4/5): The current “X” rendition of the 507 has an MSRP of $364.69, which was slightly higher than the V2 cost at release. However, today the V2 can still be found on various web-based distributors, gun stores, and third-party retailers like Amazon for just over $300. Consumers should be wary however as fraudulent copies from China have been identified, and only purchase from trusted dealers. In contrast, the Trijicon RMR can run an average of $500 (based on model), the Deltapoint PRO ($399) by Leupold, and the Vortex Viper ($349). This places the earlier V2 version of the 507 at a good price point amid the market, and the “X2” at a more appropriate (or average) price point.
• Comfort – Average (3/5): As a compact pistol optic, the 507 field of view was of appropriate (or of average) size and was perfectly sized/weighted for handgun use. The 507 had the necessitating footprint that it could also be mounted to any picatinny rail based on your desired application, or using any number of aftermarket mounting options. For the purpose of this evaluation, it was attached to a G19 for EDC use. The minimal height-over-bore necessitated some adjustment to accommodate for the natural height of the shooter, and suppressor height sights would have given it an appropriate co-witnessing. The variable MOA reticle was easy to pick up in full daylight, and the V2’s side-mounted rubberized intensity switch provided easy, problem-free adjustment with a much more intuitive button position.
• Durability – Average (3/5): Holosun is known for the moderate durability of its optics, and if anything should ever happen, its Limited Lifetime Warranty provides for a 3-5 year refund in its glass and LED system. But a large degree of durability for the 507 was attributed to its high-grade aluminum and tempered glass. During evaluations there was some noted instances of brass ejecting out and striking the forward-facing glass of the 507, but no evidence of damage to the surface (pitting, chipping, scratches) throughout. During evaluations, the optic did sustain some light superficial scratches to the finish due to contact with hardware or gear, and multiple magazine strikes—but nothing that penetrated to the base layer of metal. The glass remained clear and unobscured throughout trials, and the reticle remained zeroed and clear. It should be noted the 507 did not come with any kind of protective shroud for when not in use.
• Functionality – Good (4/5): From the standpoint of functionality, the 507 did what it needed to do, and did it well (which was consistently help place rounds on target, and maintain a clear/crisp reticle hold). The robust housing, and the optic’s height-over-bore made it easy to pick-up, and locate the reticle during the draw process, while giving a large field of view for sight picture. During the course of evaluation, both reticle dots were tested, and both proved to be bright and clear, even in instances of full direct sunlight. The rubberized vertical switch on the side provided a clear tactile feel when adjusting the optic’s brightness, and the switch’s location on the side made it easy and far more intuitive (as opposed to the current horizontal configuration) to adjust with/without gloves or when turning the unit ON/OFF. The domed angle of the protective shroud ensured gear or other objects contacting the top of the optic deflected away from the glass and front of the housing, and still did not damage the associated solar cells. The programming, specifically the Shake Awake feature, made sure that whenever the pistol was handled the optic was on and ready for use. Although while worn for EDC use, it was noted this sensitivity couldn’t discount normal movement of the torso while worn, so in essence the reticle is ON the entire time as it is carried. While this undoubtedly has an effect on battery life, it was not noted during the course of this evaluation the battery remained sufficiently charged.
• Weight – Average (3/5): Weighing in at 1.5 ounces, the 507C V2 was lightweight enough that it was not distracting, nor pulled the firearm during recoil. The main body housing was of sufficient strength and thickness that it did not increase the overall unit weight. In comparison, the Trijicon RMR can run an average of 1.17 ounces, the Deltapoint PRO by Leupold is 1.95 ounces, and the Vortex Viper 1.03 ounces w/o rail adaptor all illustrate that the 507 is at an appropriate (or average) weight range within the comparable market of red dot optics currently available.

Overall Rating – Above Average (17/25)

Product Link: https://holosun.com/index/product/detail/id/104.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.

New in 2021, the Urban Assault Pack from Trident Tactical Technical (T3) Gear is a continuation of its previous Urban Ruck line with a pack that is more condensed and capable, be it for everyday carry or practical purposes.

Made from genuine 500D Cordura nylon, the Urban Assault Pack (UAP) has an overall dimension of 20” (H) x 11.5” (W) x 7.5” (D) and can accommodate most day items or other essentials.

Exterior

At its most direct front and starting at the top, the UAP has an 8.5” wide accessory pocket that is 7” deep and secured via thick YKK zipper with paracord pull tab. Inside the accessory pocket are two smaller divided pockets for further storage. On the exterior of the accessory pocket is a 9” (L) x 3” (H) hook-and-loop (female) field for attaching identification or morale patches or panels.

Below the accessory pocket is a kangaroo pouch/panel with extensive MOLLE webbing both inside and on the exterior, along with an attached polymer D-ring to secure items. The sliding buckle nylon straps that secure the sides of the pouch/panel also serve as compression straps for the greater UAP, and the straps come with additional hardware to manage any excess strap material.

At the top of the UAP is a nylon carrying handle with laminate nylon wrap for added grip. Underneath the handle is a laminate nylon pass-through by which to pass hydration tubes or communication cables.

Woven along the top and down along the sides is a length of adjustable shock cord that can be used to cinch the upper portion of the UAP and minimize unused space.

Both sides include additional MOLLE fields for attaching associated accessories. Toward the bottom of both sides is a concealed, zipper-secured pocket that extend 10” up underneath the side material with an internal plastic D-ring for securing radios or other items.

On the bottom of the UAP is an additional MOLLE field with two compression straps for sleeping bags or ground pad.

The backpanel includes closed-cell foam padding across the back. Both shoulder straps are contoured and anchored at the top of the backpanel with extensive bartack stitching, with QD slide-release buckles at the bottom. The shoulder straps have an adjustable sternum strap with multiple nylon webbing loops to hang accessories. There is a pass-through at the bottom of the backpanel for optional waist belts, but those are not included.

Interior

The interior of the UAP is accessed via oversized YKK zippers (again with paracord pull tabs) that allow for a clamshell opening along top and both sides.

On the inside of the UAP is a large and unobstructed storage space that can accommodate up to a 15” laptop, with anchoring tabs on the bottom and a hydration strap at the top.

On the inside of the opening are two mesh pockets for storage of accessories, clothing, or other items.

On both sides of the interior is a water bottle pocket (two total).

The Urban Assault Pack is only available in Multicam Black (featured).

Product Evaluation Scores:

• Cost – Fair (2/5): With an initial MSRP of $448 the Urban Assault Pack is the latest in solutions by T3 Gear to bridge the resources between EDC use and in the field. With its quality Cordura and extensive reinforcement stitching, the UAP is as durable as it is functional. Market alternatives for similar packs of the same design include the 3 Day Pack ($487) from High Ground Gear, the Fast Pack EDC ($395) from Triple Aught Design, the GR2 ($375) from GoRuck. All market alternatives follow the approximate same design, incorporate similar materials, and use extensive reinforcement that make the UAP towards the upper end of its competitors and at a fair price for its qualities. T3 did state that their initial price will eventually be adjusted as supplies and other COVID factors become abaited, and when it does the UAP’s scoring would obviously improve as well.
• Comfort – Good (4/5): From a comfort aspect, the UAP offered a good deal given its thick padded shoulder straps and wide backpanel. The shoulder straps themselves did have included height support straps to aid in finding a comfortable position. Its non-framed backpanel provided good comfort and contoured to the back while worn, and the 500D Cordura material had sufficient flexibility to not give the pack any hard edges or angles. All the YKK zippers functioned smoothly and did not bind, while the slide release buckles snapped/secured cleanly. Weather worn for a few hours or all day, the UAP was consistently comfortable.
• Durability – Excellent (5/5): There was extensive use of bartack/reverse stitching throughout the UAP, as well as double and X-pattern reinforcement (especially at all key stress points). That translated to excellent durability to the shoulder straps, the pack’s pockets, and all MOLLE/PALS webbing. In addition, the carrying handle was wrapped in laminate nylon that increased abrasion resistance and tactile control to one of the most utilized contact points of the entire backpack. Clearly the UAP was designed for field use and the durability of its 500D Cordura and stitching helped ensure it handled the abrasive weight of a variety of daily carry items, ammo, a hydration bladder, and other gear.
• Functionality – Good (4/5): The UAP was lightweight and functional as an EDC backpack in any urban setting, or just as a field pack. As such it was able to fit a variety of gear or clothing that would even make it ideal as a 72-hour bag. The external kangaroo pouch did provide immediate access to desired contents, although larger items, such as an EXFIL helmet, was a little tight in it with a full pack. One noted aspect of the compression straps was the sides straps had MOLLE webbing clips to manage excess material, but not the front kangaroo pouch—which left some material to dangle unnecessarily (something maybe T3 could add an elastic band to or something in future designs to resolve that issue). User’s should note any items stored in the kangaroo pouch should be either waterproof or in a protective container/bag as the elements (specifically the rain) will penetrate from the sides. The alternative was to place items in the accessory or main storage compartment because both had overlap material over the zippers to avoid moisture penetration. The access port on the top also had overlap material that helped to keep a communication cable or hydration tube organized, with minimal opportunity for moisture to reach inside. One notable bonus to the function of the UAPs overall design was the clamshell opening had very tall sides that allowed the zipper to open along all three sides so that items could be packed easily without risk of spillage. The water bottle pockets on the interior were a bit of an oddity—something traditionally on the exterior that on the inside took away from internal storage—but this design aspect lent itself to the overall aspect of EDC low-profile. 
• Weight – Average (3/5): Weighing in at 4.6 pounds (empty), the UAP was lightweight for its larger size and extensive materials. It was however, able to fit considerably more items and support the larger weight of items added. The backpanel had sufficient padding and structure to keep a majority of the weight from being uncomfortable against the back and focused entirely on the shoulders. However, the inclusion of a waist strap (not included with the bag although configured for one) would have distributed the weight equally between the shoulders and hips (and something T3 may want to consider including in the future). The listed weight of alternative bags; the 3 Day Pack (5.4 pounds) from High Ground Gear, the Fast Pack EDC (4.5 pounds) from Triple Aught Design, and the GR2 (4.75) from GoRuck illustrate that the UAP is well within the average weight range for its expected design and material.

Overall Rating – Above Average (18/25)

Product Link: https://www.t3gear.com/t3-urban-assault-pack/

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.

The UGF battle belt system, with accompanying Slimline Medical Pouch and Accommodator pouches by Grey Ghost Gear (GGG) provides an ideal platform for any shooter looking for a solid range belt, in competitions, or within a professional setting.

UGF Battle Belt with Padded Inner Belt

Initially branded the Banshee belt, GGG’s two-part belt system later became dubbed the Unicorn Gun Fighter (UGF) belt supposedly by US Border Patrol who apricated the system’s comfort and ability to meet a variety of configurations. As is, the UGF belt is a two-part range belt with an outer utility belt secured via hook-and-loop to an inner belt that is worn through the belt loops.

The inner belt is a 1.5” closed-cell, padded belt with 1.5” (female) hook-and-loop on the exterior that mounts to the corresponding (male) hook-and-loop field on the outer belt. The inner belt is worn through the belt loops and sizing is adjusted via an adjustable 1” tab that is secured using the available hook-and-loop field. At three points on the inner belt are rubberized nylon loops, reinforced with X-stitching, used to mount the belt to the UGF suspenders (sold separately).

The outer belt itself is a 2” SCUBA webbing belt (meaning a blend of 500D nylon and polypropylene) that has a low-profile AustriaAlpin EDC buckle to secure it. Sizing is adjusted via an adjustable 1” tab that is secured using the available hook-and-loop field. The outer belt also comes with a removable/adjustable elastic belt keeper bearing the GGG logo.

Along the exterior of the outer belt are two 1” bands of nylon webbing that are spaced ¼” apart (as opposed to the more traditional 1” spacing found in standardized MOLLE). The bands are then reinforced with bartack stitching at every 1” increment throughout the length of the outer belt to make it compatible with MOLLE/PALS accessories.

Along the interior of the outer belt is a 1.5” (male) hook-and-loop field the length of the belt that is used to mount to the corresponding (female) hook-and-loop field on the inner belt.

Belt Specifications:

• SM: 34″-36″
• MED: 37″-39″
• LRG: 40″-42″
• XLG: 43″-44″
• 2XL: 46″-48″

Product Link: https://greyghostgear.com/collections/belts/products/ugf-battle-belt-with-padded-inner#shopify-product-reviews

Slim Medical Pouch

The Slim Medical Pouch (SMP) is one of two Individual First Aid Kits (IFAK) offered by GGG and is designed to carry most standards immediate aid items. Made from 500D Cordura, the SMP is a 5″ (H) x 4″ (L) x 2.5″ (W) clamshell design that is intended to minimize the width taken up on the main belt while still offering a full IFAK within reach.

The SMP has a shock cord retention system with ITW cord locks on the exterior to secure various items, under which is a 2.25” square (female) hook-and-loop field to mount medical or morale patches. On either side of the bungee system are two MOLLE sections.

Two zippers (one down either side opening completely to the bottom) and an oversized pull tab keep the SMP clamshell design secured, but enable immediate access if needed.

The rear of the SMP has five bands of nylon webbing, similar to the UGF belt, that are reinforced with bartack stitching (evenly spaced at 1.5”) down the center to provide the field to weave the provided MALICE clips through. On the bottom of the SMP is a single drainage grommet.

On one side of the interior to the SMP is a 3” (W) x 5.5” (L) pouch, on top of which are two 1” elastic cuffs of different lengths. Oppositely, is a single 1” elastic cuff the length of the interior, under which are three smaller 1” cuffs. All of these are intended to ensure items in the SMP are kept secure.

Product Link: https://greyghostgear.com/collections/pouches/products/slim-medical-pouch

Accommodator Rifle Shingle/Pistol Pouch

The Accommodator Magazine/Panels by GGG are the company’s take on providing a universal pouch that will accept any common, box-type magazine. Both the rifle and pistol pouches are made from 500D Cordura and feature an interwoven shock cord retention system that is adjustable and secured via an ITW cord lock. By adjusting the shock cord (with the magazine inside the pouch) the user can adjust the width and retention to fit any magazine.

For added retention, the Accommodator also include shock cord retention with nylon pull tab on the top of the pouch.

On the front of the pouches are two bands of nylon webbing that are reinforced with bartack stitching.

The rear of the MAP pouches have three bands of nylon webbing, reinforced with bartack stitching to provide the field to weave the provided MALICE clips through. Pistol pouches merely lack the webbing’s center division.

Accommodator magazine pouches do include a rare-earth magnet sewn into the rear of the pouch that can be used in lieu of top retention cord or to augment it further.

Accommodator Specifications:

• Rifle: 5” (H) x 4” (L) x 1.5” (W)
• Pistol: 4” (H) x 2.5” (L) x 1.25” (W)

Product Link: https://greyghostgear.com/collections/pouches/products/accommodator-rifle-panel

Product Link: https://greyghostgear.com/collections/pouches/products/accommodator-pistol-mag-pouch

Belt and pouches are available in Ranger Green (featured), Black, Coyote, and Multicam.

Product Evaluation Scores:

• Cost – Good (4/5): The overall evaluated GGG setup varies in price due specifically to the color selection purchased by the individual. The UGF Belt itself is between $160.99-$164.99, the SMP is $41.99-$44.99, and the Accommodator (rifle) is between $25.95-$29.95 whereas the Accommodator (pistol) is $19.95-$21.95. It should be noted that most colors were on the more inexpensive side of cost, whereas Multicam (a licensed pattern) cost slightly more. The total cost for the system evaluated would be approximately $294.78 (before tax). Comparable, full battle belt systems that could be seen as market alternatives would be G-Code’s Assaulter’s System ($295) or a customized system by HSGI ($364). Thus, for its cost and the included items, the GGG UGF battle belt system is very well priced.
• Comfort – Good (4/5): The wear of the UGF belt was very comfortable thanks in large part to its thick padded inner belt. That inner belt was also comfortable when worn as an EDC belt. Research of other customer input on websites showed complaints as to placement of the inner pad and outer buckle pinching the wearer, but upon examination of usage (via user’s photos) it was recognized individuals were incorrectly wearing the UGF system. The inner belt is designed, by virtue of placement to the hook-and-loop panels that secures both inner and outer belt, to be worn offset with the inner belt’s cinch loop to be at either the 11 o’clock position or 1. Thus providing the outer belt, with the EDC buckle worn at 12, sufficient overlap in padding and avoid pinching the wearer’s body. When worn correctly, the UGF system was very comfortable and distributed the weight around the waist appropriately. While the SMP did take up minimal room on the UGF belt, this was in exchange to it sticking out a considerable distance off the body and easily caught corners or was uncomfortable against the back while sitting in a vehicle (it would have almost been preferred to mount it horizontal rather than vertical but that was not part of its design). The SMP is likely ideal for those already running a crowded battle belt and want a full IFAK with the reduced tax on real estate. Use of the Accommodator pouches provided good retention of the magazine once they were appropriately sized. The overall loaded weight of the UGF system can further be offset by using the UGF suspenders (sold separately) and transferring some of the weight to the shoulders if desired.
• Durability – Excellent (5/5): This is an area where the UGF system really excelled in, given almost every aspect of the belt, the SMP, and Accommodator pouches were completely reinforced with either double-line stitching or bartack. The AustriaAlpine buckle also translated to significant durability as the buckle has been well known to sustain its locking mechanism against significant weight. This translated to a high degree of durability and strength that would make the UGF at home in either a professional or competitive setting. Tactical Tailor does stand by its products offering a 100% warranty if, at any point, their product fails through defect but this does not extend to misuse or inappropriate care by the user.
• Functionality – Good (4/5): From a functional aspect; the UGF system, SMP, and Accommodator pouches all provided a very solid platform for shooters.
  • Donning and removing the UGF belt was very easy given when it was appropriately sized for the waist. The inner layer of the UGF belt was even functional as a stand-alone EDC belt that would make reacting to an active shooter or any situation as easy as reaching for the exterior belt. The spacing between the nylon bands on the exterior of the belt was an atypical ¼” spacing that made mounting MOLLE/PALS hardware somewhat difficult, but by pinching the material was still readily achieved.
  • The SMP provided almost an immediate access to its medical contents in that the pull tab and dual zippers opened the pouch completely to the bottom. The elastic cuffs inside the SMP provided good retention although the single long cuff for chest seals had almost an excessive amount to be useful if used for other items. That aspect could be improved by Tactical Tailor by dividing it into two different length segments, or by making it an adjustable strap with a small slide release buckle.
  • Being able to use either .223/5.56 or .308 magazines in a single pouch gave the Accommodator platforms a good level of functionality for its broad magazine commonality. There was a little movement in the Accommodator pouches once mounted into each webbing loop, but not sufficient to cause significant problems. Getting magazines in the Accommodator pouches was a little more difficult than when drawing them, simply because these pouches are nylon based and not kydex so the material gives a little when pushing the magazines in and occasionally snagged on the magazines. One suggestion here would be to offer some level of rigidity to the opening that would not hinder the adjustable elastic of the Accommodator pouches and make getting mags down into the pouch at any angle easier.
• Weight – Good (4/5): While each component of the UGF battle belt system obviously weighed differently, their combined weight was what bore on the body. Coming in assembled at 2.21 pounds (empty) the UGF system was still remarkably light. This in comparison to G-Code’s Assaulter’s System (2.15 pounds), or the HSGI system (2.1 pounds) all of which effectively balance functionality with lightweight materials/design. These aspects, without becoming excessively heavy, as more traditional systems in either leather or thicker nylon do, give the UGF battle belt system a solid scoring.

Overall Rating – Good (21/25)

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.