In this two-part series, we will explore the features to legitimate CATs, and then follow-up with detailing the features that identify fraudulent tourniquets.
In this two-part series, we will explore the features to legitimate CATs, and then follow-up with detailing the features that identify fraudulent tourniquets.
In this two-part series, we will explore the features to legitimate CATs, and then follow-up with detailing the features that identify fraudulent tourniquets.
As part of its “Urban” product line, the Urban Tactical Pants (UTP) by Helikon-Tex have been a mainstay of its trouser design that gives end-users functional field attire to meet a variety of needs.
Recently released, the differences between Safariland’s 6004 Drop Flex Adaptor (DFA) and its 6005 Leg Strap (LS) shroud may appear minimal—but their differences in design and function could be the difference in terms of comfort and function.
Released in 2022, the multi-point adjustable OG x Keller Modular Sling by Otte Geartakes the traditional two-point sling design and incorporates insight from Bob Keller (Gamut Resolutions) to provide a multi-use sling for a variety of shooting styles.
Introduced in 2022 as a magazine enhancement, the Firebase by G-Code provides the end user with increased surface area for control, and a textured non-slip base for support when needed.
Released in 2022, the Shade Shirt SPF 50+ by Otte Gear provides much of the outdoor functionality from the company’s apparel line, with new fabrics intent on limiting outdoor and sun exposure in the days of fall and winter.
The FMN500- Friskmaster TM MAX – Cut & Needle Puncture Resistant Glove, by Safariland is designed specifically to meet the needs of law enforcement while conducting body searches and keeping the wearer safe from the risks of blindly reaching into an individual’s pockets.
Released in early 2022, the MCH handheld light by Cloud Defensive, continues to build upon the success of the OWL and REIN 2.0 by introducing the latest light-producing weapon ling design, in a compact body fit for individual or pocket carry.
ARPC (Steel 1) May 2, 2026 at 7:30 am – 4:30 pm
Arnold Rifle & Pistol Clubn8343 Metropolitan Blvd, Barnhart, MO 63012, United States
Repeats every first Saturday. Register at: https://practiscore.com/clubs/arnold-rifle-and-pistol-club
MOST - FC Cans Only (Gadsden Sporting Complex) May 30, 2026 at 7:15 am – May 31, 2026 at 3:15 pm
538 MO EE, Iberia, Missouri 65486
Registration fee is $40 Pratiscore at: https://practiscore.com/clubs/missouri-steel-tactical-series/matches
Intended to support a given range or battle belt setup, the new Sensitive Site Exploitation (SSE) Pouch (Gen 2) by T3 Gear is designed to provide the end-user with a rapidly deployable dump pouch to deposit non-essential items like expended or spare magazines, sensitive items, or other accessories.
Made from a combination of 500D Cordura, mesh nylon, and a supportive, semi-rigid High-density polyethylene (HDPE) panel, the SSE Pouch measures 3.5” (L) x 5” (H) x 1.5” (W) when rolled up and stowed inside the pouch. When deployed, the overall storage pouch has a storage capacity of 380 in3 and measures 7” (L) x 11” (H) x 5” (W).
When deployed, the opening of the SSE Pouch features a draw-string style enclosure that allows the opening to be customized based on contents, but prevents those items from accidently escaping. The bottom of the storage pouch has a nylon mesh for drainage purposes.
The rear uses two bands of T3’s MOLLE closure system that accommodates 1.75” – 2” wide gun belts and ensures the pouch will remain attached to the belt regardless of the situation.
When stowed, a pass-through rapid deployment tab is secured to the outward-facing exterior via hook-and-loop that provides the ability to pull open the pouch, and deploy the internal storage pouch.
Specifications:
Stowed Size: 3.5” (L) x 5” (H) x 1.5” (W)
Deployed Size: 7” (L) x 11” (H) x 5” (W)
The Sensitive Site Exploitation Pouch (Gen 2) is available in Multicam (featured), Black, Coyote Brown, and Ranger Green.
Product Evaluation Scores:
Cost – Average (3/5): At $59.99 the Sensitive Site Exploitation Pouch is made from dominantly from 500D Cordura material that forms the outer pouch, and its unique collapsible storage bag. Other dump-pouch market alternatives typically are open-mouth designs that are seldom collapsible into a small profile—resembling a sandwich bag worn on the hip. When not in use, the SSE Pouch stored away cleanly and appeared simply as another pouch on the beltline. Some comparable dump pouches to this size and collapsible design include the Fight Light Roll-Up Dump Pouch ($28.50) by Tactical Tailor, the SSE Pouch ($49) by First Spear, or the Cordura Dump Pouch ($65.00) by Flatline Fiber Co. Thus, while the cost for the SSE Pouch is more than other market alternatives, the outer pouch design and use of HDPE reinforcement to the storage pouch accounts for an appropriate (or average) price and the difference.
Comfort – Average (3/5): The outer 500D nylon material, and that of the storage bag while collapsed and inside, was soft and pliable enough to be placed by the end-user in the back of the belt, yet was not uncomfortable against the back when sitting in a car or chair. The drawstring style opening and HDPE support panel was not of sizable bulk when deployed to poke or press against the back or legs uncomfortably, but when driving magazines into the dump pouch gave it an appropriate (or average) frame/opening in which to drive/drop an item, such as magazines—although occasionally this opening was difficult to find when the pouch would collapse slightly. The dual zipper shuttles moved using the pull tabs easily and smoothly, not binding around the corners. But when utilizing the rapid deployment tab some difficulty in getting the zippers to move around the corners was observed—as the shuttles were being pushed aside vice pulled directly.
Durability – Average (3/5): Made dominantly from 500D Cordura nylon, the fabric of the SSE pouch is a market staple and appropriate (or average) for the type of product. The SSE Pouch had a good level of durability despite when being loaded with eight magazines (and room for several more), keys, or loose ammunition and used on a belt that was worn during shooting and stressor drills (sprints, turning drills). Through it all, none of the contents were lost and the cinch closure itself held up well. The pouch also had likely TEX 70 bonded nylon thread (a threaded weight common in upholstery, leatherwork, and other heavy fabrics) throughout which aided in maintaining its stress points and is frequently used for tactical gear for its superior chemical and mildew resistance. Despite the rapid deployment tab unable to push aside the zippers, forceful pulling on the tab did not tear the fabric or adjoining threading, and the tab remained intact.
Functionality – Average (3/5): Because of its size when deployed, the SSE Pouch accommodated roughly eight 30-round rifle magazines and still had room for 1-2 more or smaller, loose items. The cinch style opening was unique in that items were easily pressed through, but the opening was then tightened so the contents wouldn’t fall out against the enclosed material. The added elastic band inside the dump pouch had the added benefit of always keeping one loaded magazine readily within reach and added to the magazine count worn on the belt line. The mesh bottom helped to ensure debris picked up from mags on the ground would fall through and not continue to remain in the pouch. When not deployed, the SSE Pouch was rolled up and compactly secured inside the belt pouch and had no inadvertent opening. Functionally, the biggest challenge was reliable deployment of the storage pouch using the provided rapid deployment strap as continually pulling on it could not push the dual zipper shuttles around the pouch’s corners sufficiently to clear the pouch and pull it out/down. This was easily overcome by simply utilizing the zipper’s pull tabs, but then there is no way to remove or stow the rapid deployment tab inside the pouch to keep the zipper line clear. T3 may want to consider either giving the pouch a more arched design and eliminate those zipper corners, or remove the rapid deployment tab all together.
Weight – Average (3/5): Weighing in at 4.6 ounces, (empty) the lightweight 500D Cordura fabric and mesh bottom demonstrated the typical benefits of the material. It was light enough not to add significant weight to the belt or unbalance it when empty, nor sag when deployed and filled. In comparison, the Fight Light Roll-Up Dump Pouch (4.7 ounces) by Tactical Tailor, the SSE Pouch (2.56 ounces) by First Spear, or the Cordura Dump Pouch (4.0 ounces) by Flatline Fiber Co. So weight of Blue Force Gear’s Medium Dump Pouch is appropriately (or of average) comparable to some of the lighter dump pouches on the market.
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.
Released in 2019, the ELF Pro Component Trigger (PCT) by Elftmann Tactical is a revised version to the highly successful ELF Match Pro Trigger. It brings together precision machining, and hardened alloys for a quality competitive trigger.
What brings the PCT together as something new is its two-piece design that is free of restrictions found in a drop-in housing. This gives it the ability to shed dust or debris as it lacks the tighter constraints found in a cassette type drop-in design.
The PCT uses Elftmann’s proprietary PRO-LOCK threaded mounting system that combines aerospace-grade sealed bearings, precision threaded bushings, and screws over traditional pins to give it a secure trigger feel with zero excess movement.
The spring action of the PCT gives the trigger a 3.5lb. pull (after a short break in period), and is precision EDM wire that is made from hardened American steel.
The ELF Pro Component Trigger is available in a curved or straight shoe.
Specifications:
Compatible to all calibers – 5.56, 9mm, .308 etc.
Fits any mil-spec AR-15 (Standard pin size, no large pin Colt)
Drop-Safe
Full power hammer spring
Disconnect allows full 1/4” width eliminating wear and double-firing
Trigger and hammer needle bearings provide smoother and faster firing
Product Evaluation Scores:
Cost – Average (3/5): At $239 the PCT is Elftmann Tactical’s current two-part competition-grade trigger that brings together high quality machining with high tolerance materials. Included in the PCT’s design is Elftmann’s skeletonized trigger design, with a crisp trigger break. Other market alternatives for two-piece triggers include Geissele’s Super 3 Gun Trigger ($240), or LaRue’s MBT’s 2-Stage Trigger ($80). The largest attributable difference in price stems from variances in manufacturing with competition triggers machined to higher tolerances using denser base metals. In comparison to other drop-in competition triggers, such as Rise Armament’s APT ($259) or Timny Trigger’s AR-15 Competition Trigger ($219), all demonstrate that the PCT is well within an average price scale for the market and intended purpose.
Comfort – Good (4/5): From a comfort aspect, the PCT was manufactured to have a light 3.5lb. trigger pull. This gave it a definitive feel in the “break” with seemingly zero creep when firing. From a tactile aspect, the “hook” of the trigger had a grooved cut to give it more of a surface deviation against the finger. The hard angle edges of the skeletonized trigger however were notable, and gave it an unusual wire-hanger feel rather than a solid one-piece design. It would be suggested to Elftmann to consider polishing/rounding the edges of the trigger to give it a more contoured feel against the finger. The trigger mechanism itself felt, and sounded crisp with no excess noise or movement.
Durability – Excellent (5/5): The PCT was cut from hardened steel (sourced in the United States) using a process called Electric Discharge Machining (EDM) which, without getting into the technical weeds, enabled the PCT to have exceedingly precise and complex cuts for the highest degree of precision possible. Added into its construction were sealed bearings, using what Elftmann cites as “Aerospace-grade” material, that gave it a smooth movement. This puts the PCT on par with some of the highest-degree of manufactured triggers on the current market made specifically for competitive use. At no point during evaluations did the skeletonized trigger bend, nor did the finish flake or stain.
Functionality – Excellent (5/5): Functionally the PCT installed just as any generic two-piece trigger would, with its screw pins providing a rock-solid mount to the lower’s frame with zero wiggle or excess movement. The option to use threaded pins over traditional roll pins is somewhat unique to high-grade triggers as it eliminated the need to use anti-roll/walk pins. This resulted in consistent and reliable strikes by the full-weight hammer to the firing pin. Otherwise the 3.5lb. pull provided a consistent feel in the trigger with a crisp and consistent “break” in pull and very short reset. The advantage over traditional a traditional duty trigger was obviously rapid follow-up and a less distance needed to travel in trigger pull to fire. Since during this evaluation period the COVID-19 pandemic no competitive matches were being held due to state regulations on social distancing, individual speed trials and stressor drills were compared between the PCT in one rifle and another rifle with an ALG duty trigger. Consistently the PCT allowed for more rapid follow-up shots and shorter split times which made it an excellent option for its intended function.
Weight – Average (3/5): At a weight of approx. 3.36 oz. per unit, the PCT is on-par (or average) with the materials utilized, and similar to the weight of other aftermarket triggers. In comparison Geissele’s Super 3 Gun Trigger (4.96oz.), Timney AR-15 Trigger (3.52oz.), ALG’s AR-15 Trigger (2.6oz.), or CMC’s Drop in Trigger (3.2oz.) show the weight range for more comparable aftermarket triggers. In the end the PCT’s weight is something that is relatively fixed as the base material (US steel) is itself fixed. The more base material used, the heaver it would become, and thus why some aftermarket triggers attempt to shave a few ounces by skeletonizing other trigger components.
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.
With the approaching hunting season, shooters will need to prepare for taking the long shot. Whether this is in a tree, on the ground, or stalking among the trees the ability to accurately judge distance and the affects on shot placement can spell the differences between a successful season or getting skunked. The Impact rangefinder by Vortex allows for all-season, accurate range estimation that will help hunters and distance shooters.
The Impact 850 rangefinder is a precise laser ranging device that can register objects up to 850 meters (for reflective targets) or 400 meters (for targets that absorb the laser light, or “soft” targets). It’s accuracy and lightweight, minimalist design can benefit both rifle/pistol shooters, hunters, and competitive distance shooters.
Internally, the Impact is sealed with all external openings or compartments having rubberized O-rings that prevent penetration by moisture. The optical and laser lenses are coated in multiple layers of anti-reflective sealant that maximizes light emission from the rangefinder to the target and back. The adjustable optical lens includes an adjustable eye relief to adjust the image focus.
Features of the Impact include a two Mode function:
Horizontal Component Distance (HCD) mode for angle compensated ranging to give bow and rifle shooters the critical distance data needed to make accurate shots.
Line of Sight (LOS) mode displays actual line of sight range.
While the Impact includes angled compensation, the user can also select between “METER” or “YARD” range displays. By holding the “Measure” button, the Impact also uses a continual “scan” feature that allows for on-the-move tracking of the target if needed.
The Impact 850 is powered by a single CR2 battery that gives the rangefinder approximately 5,000 cycles. With the programming’s included auto-shutoff feature, after 10 seconds of inactivity the Impact will turn off. This ensures longevity of the rangefinder, along with the included wrist lanyard that prevents accidental droppage.
Specifications:
Range Reflective (yards) 850 yards
Range Deer (yards) 400 yards
Accuracy + / – 1 yards @ 100 yards
Max Angle Reading + / – 60 degrees
Magnification 6x
Linear Field of View 341 feet/1000 yards
Angular Field of View 6.5 degrees
Eye Relief 15 mm
Length 3.77 inches
Width 2.95 inches
Weight 5.5 oz
Product Evaluation Scores:
Cost – Good (4/5): At an MSRP of $269.99 the Impact is the base model of rangefinder by Vortex, and the most affordable in its rangefinder lineup. It can be found on second/third-party vendor websites for as low as $199, but again care needs to be exercised in choosing a credible retailer. In comparison to market alternatives, the Leupold Marksman 1000 ($229), Sig Sauer KILO 1600 ($299) and Bushnell NITRO 6×20 ($299) all exemplify that the market on rangefinders is diverse and the Impact remains one of the more affordable and simplified rangefinders.
Comfort – Good (4/5): Roughly the size of a 3×5 index card, the Impact fit nicely in the palm and was large enough to be held by one hand (although using a single hand is not ideal for rangefinding). The MODE and MEASURE buttons were oversized and made pressing them with any finger easy. The light weight also made the Impact easily carried and something that, when added to a vest or lanyard, not uncomfortable or tiresome. The eye relief was adjustable so although wearing eyeglasses was not feasible, the adjustable field of view for the Impact was able to be easily brought into focus.
Durability – Good (4/5): The Impact had a rigid polymer housing similar to other laser rangefinders on the market. This provides a significant level of protection to the light emitter inside. The buttons, lenses, and battery compartment were all sealed with rubberized O-rings and gave the Impact a moderate degree of water resistance (for rain or droppage into a puddle or stream). The demo model provided did not come with a wrist lanyard, but typically the Impact would have one to secure the device to the wrist. In the event there is any problems with the Impact, like all Vortex products, it is covered under Vortex’s no-questions-asked VIP Warranty.
Functionality – Good (4/5): While the digital programming of the Impact allowed for a significant measurement of distance; other functions aided in proper shot placement, range estimation, and evaluating angles. Using a .308 caliber rifle, our local range only allowed us to evaluate the Impact’s performance as it related to functional performance—not skill of the shooter to place shots. The angled HCD function would be ideal for those utilizing tree stands during rifle or archery season. The LCD display clearly read out the distance, current mode, viewing angle, and battery life. Although the Impact was tested for several hours, the CR2 held at full battery strength.
Weight – Average (3/5): The overall Impact rangefinder weighed just 5.5 ounces, and was lighter than most field equipment that would otherwise be carried. This makes the Impact’s functionality and comfort very important and, when combined with its affordability, a very beneficial part of range shooting or hunting. In comparison, other units vary in weight, such as the Leupold Marksman (6.2 ounces), Sig Sauer KILO (5 ounces) and the Bushnell NITRO (5.5. ounces) but not to a significant degree. This makes the Impact of average weight within the current market.
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.
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.