High Ground Media, LLC

Released in 2016, the line of Air cases by Pelican is one of the latest in a series of hard cases that is up to 40% lighter than other models. The 1615TRVL is specifically designed for transporting a variety of range or field equipment, but can accommodate a variety of other items. The Air series of cases provides Pelican’s leading protection to consumers using its proven materials and die-hard design.

Like other Pelican cases, the 1615TRVL Case is made from super-light proprietary HPX²™ Polymer with features taken from Pelican’s Protector series to deliver a lightweight, watertight, crushproof, and dustproof case that offers a significant amount of protection. The polymer has an operational temperature range between -60° F and 160° F.

Exterior

With an overall exterior dimension of 32.58” (L) x 11.02” (H) x 18.40” (W), the 1615’s exterior is the maximum TSA/airline size for approved check-ins. Its shell is comprised of Pelican’s Super-light proprietary HPX²™ Polymer for a lightweight shell that maintains maximum strength and impact resistance.

The 1615 includes five newly redesigned Press and Pull™ latches made from an ABS polymer that secure the lid to the bottom. In addition, there are three heavy-duty, ergonomic and foldable handles on either end to aid in picking up. The 1615 also includes an extendable handle for rolling transportation.

Several security features built into the 1615 are its two stainless-steel padlock protectors, and its single automatic purge valve made with hi-flow Gore-Tex with a 3 micron, hydrophobic non-woven material.

The 1615 has two quiet-rolling wheels with stainless-steel bearings that aid in rolling and transport of the case, and its fully packed weight. On the exterior is a single, clear plastic business card colder for an identification placard. This card holder is only accessible with the lid open and thus prevents tampering.

Interior

With an interior space of 29.6” (L) x 9.38” (H) x 15.5” (W), the 1615 has an overall internal storage capacity of 2.49 ft³.

The interior of the lid features two zipper-secured storage compartments, and three mesh envelope pockets. A one-piece, rubberized EPDM O-ring provides a watertight seal to the interior storage space.

While the 1615 comes without any layers; the foam, or internal packing cube organizers can be purchased separately to meet any storage need. The 1615 does come with two mesh storage bags (one large, one small)

Available in Black (featured), Charcoal, Oxibod, and Indigo.

Product Evaluation Scores:

• Cost – Average (3/5): At $419, the 1615TRVL Air Case is one of the premier cases within the Air series of protective cases. It can be readily found on third-party sites (with and without foam) for between $346 and $273. But care should be taken when ordering from non-direct vendors however, as the condition and legitimacy of such products can sometimes prove dubious. As a whole, the 1615 is part of the overall ‘Air’ line and made from Pelican’s proprietary HPX²™ Polymer. This new material provides for consistent strength and impact resistance over its more traditional products, yet is still lighter. Comparable market alternatives would be the 965 Case by Nanuk ($279) or the 2918-10 iSeries Case by SKB ($243). Depending on the vendor found, and if foam or internal dividers are also purchased, the cost of the 1615TRVL Air is appropriate (or average) within the current market and for the materials/design used.
• Comfort – Good (4/5): Within the Air line the 1615 is a relatively larger case, but thanks to the HPX²™ Polymer was very light in comparison to other protective cases of similar size. The HPX²™ Polymer clearly held a factor in weight reduction while sacrificing none of the protective capabilities. The near 2.50 ft³ of storage easily accommodated a significant amount of gear (plate carriers, body armor, etc.) and also was a convenient way to transport competition gear (belt, mags, pistol, clothing, gear, etc.) for travel to the range or potentially to any competition that would require air travel. The collapsible handles felt very comfortable in the hand and did not dig or pinch in the hand. The push-button latches were a notable improvement over more traditional C-type clamps, and provided an improved level of security against accidental opening (despite several attempts at trying to force it open from the bottom of the latch). The 1615 also had the same locking cleats as the Protector series that enabled for stacking as necessary. The only negative in comfort came from the extendable rolling handle which felt somewhat frail at full extent due to its interlocking design. If Pelican could somehow make it of a more secure design when deploying/collapsing then the score could be improved.
• Durability – Excellent (5/5): The 1615 itself had Pelican’s legacy in durability, which is often regarded as the gold standard for hard cases. It held up during multiple transports to/from the range in the back of a pickup truck (on and off road) with other gear and use, with only minimal surface marring (superficial scratches, gouges, dents, etc.). At no point did dust or moisture penetrate the interior storage space. There was no foam nor packing inserts that came with the 1615, although they are available to order separately—thus for this evaluation items had to be predominantly mass packed. The pockets on the interior lid was able to hold lighter items (gloves, eye protection, etc.) however there was a weight limit the material can hold before the thin fabric risks being compromised. Likewise, the mesh organizer bags also held good durability thanks to its nylon fabric.
• Functionality – Good (4/5): The 1615 is similar to other Pelican Air cases in that it was designed to be a protective hard case for ease in ground and/or air transport. Its overall dimensions did meet with current TSA regulations on the maximum size of checked in luggage (however it was noted that some airlines may have different sizing regulations due to smaller airframes). While the 1615TRVL Air Case has an improved polymer blend and new push-button latches, the Air series as a whole had a low-profile appearance and was designed more for the avid traveler (such as trainers or instructors) in mind, not members of the military. Features like the rolling wheels, extendable handle, and pressurization valve were essential as part of the design for long-term use or carrying. The stainless-steel protectors (in conjunction with TSA-approved locks – not included) and hinge pins likewise fill an essential aspect of design as it ensured forced entry (shy of cutting) wasn’t possible. While there was no included foam, one noted drawback was that while the 1615’s open interior did allow for the user to pack the contents in the best way possible, there was no means to secure loose or smaller items not packed into the lid or storage bags. For that, one would need to order the foam or internal dividers that is sold separately. As noted above, the 1615 did share some rigidity aspects of the Protector series of Pelican cases with the locking cleats on the lid that aided in reinforcement.
• Weight – Excellent (5/5): At 16.66 lbs. (empty), the 1615TRVL Air Case has an appropriate (or average) amount of weight for a case of this size and intended to hold a variety of equipment. As such, once fully loaded, the 1615 was very heavy and bulky to maneuver but the multiple handles aided in maneuvering the case and contents. Truthfully the best method in transporting the fully loaded 1615 was rolling it around with the carrying handle extended—provided it was a smooth, improved surface. The rolling wheels did not facilitate rolling over loose rock, therefor necessitated the carry method. In comparison; the 965 Case by Nanuk (25.05 pounds) or the 2918-10 iSeries Case by SKB (22.13 pounds) were all over the weight of the 1615TRVL Air Case despite similarities in overall dimensions and design. This validated the benefit of the proprietary HPX²™ Polymer in the 1615 and gave it an excellent scoring.

Overall Rating – Good (21/25)

Product Link: https://www.pelican.com/us/en/product/cases/travel-case/air/1615trvl

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 Range Tactical Glove by Helikon-Tex is a flexible, lightweight range/duty glove, which grants the end-user a moderate tactile feel to weapon control systems, while providing added protection to fingers and palm.

The Range Tactical Glove was designed to bring a breathable elastic fabric on the top, with a synthetic leather on the palm to give the gloves themselves an improved level of durability, feel, and fit.

A microfiber lining along the spine of the thumb, from forefinger to wrist, gives the gloves a soft contact material when touching skin or other sensitive surfaces.

The finger joints have a slit design that gives the Range Tactical Glove improved flexibility and dexterity over other traditional designs that would otherwise stretch the material when the fingers are articulated. The Range Tactical Gloves differ from other tactical gloves in that it has a touch-screen compatible material at the middle-finger.

The gloves are anchored just above the wrist bone with an adjustable hook-and-loop cuff, attached to which is a paracord loop to aid in donning or to hang on a clip with other gear.

The Range Tactical Glove is available in Black/Shadow Grey (featured) or Coyote/Adaptive Green, Multicam, or Petncott. It is also available in sizes that range from Small to 2XL.

Product Evaluation Scores:

• Cost – Excellent (5/5): At $33.90 the Range Tactical Gloves are at a good price point as a short-use, tactical glove that will likely give the wearer roughly six months of moderate/heavy field use given its overall materials and design. Market alternatives to the Range Tactical Glove would be the Full Dexterity Tactical Glove (FDT) ($42.95) from SKD, the Operator Contact Glove ($35.40) by First Spear, the Hard Glove ($37.90) by Direct Action, or the Duty Glove ($35) by Viktos. Some of these alternatives however, may lack some specific design aspects the Range Tactical Glove has (specifically the split finger joint). As a result, the Range Tactical Gloves are at an excellent cost in comparison to the market of current alternatives.
• Comfort – Good (4/5): The materials involved had a fair amount of flex and breathability when used, in return that material also gave the end-user a good level of comfort. The materials between the palm and thumb, where the greatest amount of stress took place, held notable double line stitching for added strength. The split finger design along the knuckles provided additional comfort during finger articulation and at no point did the materials inhibit or restrict movement. It should be noted this type of glove was/is good for temperate or moderately cold weather, but not temperatures near the freezing point as its lightweight and breathable material is not intended to serve as a winter or outdoor glove.
• Durability – Average (3/5): The materials in the Range Tactical Gloves offered maximum, full-hand protection while retaining the greatest degree of tactile sense possible. The tradeoff being that those materials will be unable to hold up over time given moderate/heavy field use. Despite 30 days of regular use, some instances of loose threading were noted inside the finger joints and reflect the continual articulation those areas go through. Consumers need to understand that there is the tradeoff in these type of gloves, and a design shared among the market alternatives noted above. The more protective and durable the glove, the less tactile sense is provided. During the 30-day evaluation period the only negative aspect to the Range Tactical Glove’s durability was some curling of the leather on the hook-and-loop tab (that is consistent with wear), but could become problematic over the glove’s expected lifespan. A recommended area of improvement for Helikon-Tex would be to consider an elastic wrist band here or perhaps double stitching along the hook-and-loop tap to minimize separation.
• Functionality – Good (4/5): The Range Tactical Gloves functioned well as intended for a pair of light/moderate shooter gloves. Positive tactile sensation was maintained to the trigger despite the thickness of the leather, and dexterity during magazine changes and function drills was not impaired. The slit finger joints gave the gloves a good level of flexibility over a number of market alternatives that use a solid approach. The only negative note would be the touchscreen pad on the middle finger, and a notable inconsistent compatibility to smart screen devices.
• Weight – Good (4/5): At 2.4 ounces (for the pair) the Range Tactical Gloves were very lightweight and gave a near “naked” feel that provided very good tactile sense to the trigger control group and magazines. The Range Tactical Gloves were lighter than either the FDT Gloves (3.04 ounces) or the Duty Glove (3.42 ounces) which alludes to the Range Tactical Glove’s lightweight materials and design. Obviously the more protective materials and features included on any glove, the more weight is added and for a lightweight field/duty glove the Range Tactical Gloves stride the line between weight and function.

 Overall Rating – Good (20/25)

Product Link: https://www.helikon-tex.com/en_usd/rk-rng-po-range-tactical-gloves.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.

The XPS2 is a compact holographic tactical sight offered by EOTech, and its size makes it ideal for competitive, tactical, or defensive shooters.

Introduced in 2012, the XPS line of holographic weapon sights (HWS) was a progressive step forward by EOTech over its former 512 line. The XPS2 is a non-QD version of the EXPS model which remains part of the Department of Defense contract to military forces. Per the manufacturer, the HWS system “…is for the M4A1 carbine and CQBR in Close Quarters Battle” but is not limited to those applications.

The XPS2 comes in five different models based on functionality and weapon platform:

• XPS2-0: 68 MOA ring w/1MOA dot reticle
• XPS2-1: 1 MOA dot reticle
• XPS2-2: 2-dot ballistic reticle
• XPS2-300: 300 BLK 2-dot ballistic reticle
• XPS2-0GREY: Gray exterior housing, 68 MOA ring w/1MOA dot reticle
• XPS2-0GRN: Green exterior housing, 68 MOA ring w/1MOA dot reticle
• XPS2-FN: FN Herstal less lethal reticle
• XPS2-SAGE: Targeting and ranging reticle

In the XPS2-0 (featured) the 68 MOA outer ring enables for rapid target acquisition of threats within 7m and less, while the 1 MOA dot is intended for mid-to-close range targets. The XPS2 body measures 3.8” x 2.1” x 2.5” (97 x 54 x 64 mm) and has 20 levels of reticle illumination. The window dimensions are 1.2″ x .85″ and the front window material is 1/8” glass, while the rear window material is 3/16” laminate.

The XPS2 shares the same body-style as the XPS3, which is the model that offers night-vision compatibility. The XPS2 uses the standard 1” weaver or MIL-STD-1913 rail as a mounting platform. Using a 123-lithium power source, the XPS2 can run for approximately 1000 hours at a brightness setting of 12 at room temperature.

Specifications for the XPS2-0

• Magnification – 1x
• Eye Relief: Unlimited
• Powersave: Auto shut-off at 8 hours, programmable to 4. Auto battery-check (reticle flashes) indicator at start-up signals 2-5 hours battery life remaining
• Fog-resistant and anti-reflection lens coating
• Adjustment (per click): Approx. 0.5 MOA (1/2″ at 100 yds) when zeroing
• Adjustment Range: +/-40 MOA travel
• Water resistant to 10 ft. (3 m)

Product Evaluation Scores:

• Cost – Average (3/5): At a current cost of $555.00, the XPS2 and its variants can be found on any number of online second or third-hand retailers for less. It should be noted however, that there is a dearth of overseas counterfeits on the market and purchasing through retailers such as eBay runs the associated risk. Ensure that you buy through a vetted dealer. Otherwise, in terms of HWS optics the XPS2’s most direct competitors are the UH-1 Razor from Vortex ($649), the Leupold Carbine Optic ($909), and the Holosun 510 ($352). The price point of the XPS2 places it in the mid-price range of these optics and one that has built a longstanding legacy over years of service in Iraq, Yemen, and Afghanistan.
• Comfort – Good (4/5): With its large 1.2″ x .85″ window, the EOTech line has one of the largest fields of view on the market. The XPS2 allowed to easily identify the target while still maintaining situational awareness around the periphery. The larger 68 MOA reticle made lining up off the front/rear irons easier and quicker in that it was basically lining up matching circles. The 1 MOA dot allowed for easy focused shooting on smaller targets. The variable brightness of the green reticle on the XPS2 appeared bright and clear, but not as crisp as other red dot or HSW optics that have come out to market after the XPS was first introduced.
• Durability – Excellent (5/5): Much like other EOTech HWS optics, the XPS2 has a protective aluminum shroud that covers the main housing and optic glass. This shroud is connected into the main body through a slotted groove and two, star hex bolts. Because of its size and prominence, the shroud did deflect a lot of incidental contact and received some surface marring. The demo model did arrive from the vendor a little loose, but was easily tightened. The optic glass was of similar thickness as other combat-style optics and ensured ejecting brass or other debris did not damage the surface. The XPS2 has an extensive history behind it for military applications, and wouldn’t have that lineage if its durability were in question. EOTech has taken great strides in its HWS quality control following the 2015 L3 lawsuit, sacrificing none of the XPS’s durability in the process. This is in large part why in 2019 it was awarded another contract to USSOCOM for further EOTech optics. Newer generation EOTech optics can be readily identified by the revised logo on the protective shroud.
• Functionality – Good (4/5): The XPS had rather straightforward functionality, with its adjustable brightness settings, and powersave function. The XPS2-0 (featured) did have some measurable range finding functionality built into the design of the 68/1 MOA reticle. That is consistent with its purpose of being a mid-to-close range optic. The XPS2-0 did not have any nightvision compatibility, but other models of the XPS do. The battery cap does have a cable-attached lanyard that prevents loss. The rubberized button back panel does protect the switch controls and allows for “scrolling” between brightness settings, but did not have any tactile feel when pressing. The most awkward function is the XPS necessitating a two-button press to power down the optic. It was nice that the XPS didn’t take up as much space on top of the AR rail as its previous 512 models, an improvement that is especially beneficial to SBRs.
• Weight – Good (4/5): At 9oz. (255g) the XPS is one of the lightest of electro-optics in its class, but not the heaviest (that distinction is reserved for Vortex’s UH-1 at 11.08oz.). Other optics, such as the Leupold Carbine Optic weigh 9.5oz. and are almost a third more expensive. In comparison, the Holosun 510 is 9.3oz. and less expensive, but does not have the large field of view or durability. Thus, there is a tradeoff in terms of weight and the XPS, whereas the XPS was near the upper range of weight, but had some of the largest gains in field of view comfort and robustness.

Overall Rating – Good (20/25)

Product Link: https://www.eotechinc.com/holographic-weapon-sights/model-xps2

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.