High Ground Media, LLC

Recently released, the Patrolux Multicam (MC) Pant by Viktos is the company’s latest continuation of its popular Contractor tactical pant. Similarly, the Patrolux chassis is dominantly made from the same high-durability blend of 50% NyCo Multicam / 50% nylon, and provides several elements intent on giving end-users comfort as well as function.

Starting at the waist, the Patrolux MC pant has seven 2.5” wide beltloops (four in the front and three in the back) with a padded waistband and patterned stitch line. These features improve comfort when wearing a heavy tactical belt, and have extensive bartack that maintains durability of the materials. The cut of the Patrolux MC pant is straight-legged to allow for deep knee movements common with life in the field.

The Patrolux MC has a top button and dual-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. This unique design also allows the zipper to function while continuing to wear a duty or gun belt, and not requiring the wearer to remove it. The upper half of the Patrolux also utilizes Viktos’ FortiFlex material which reinforces the upper hip and thigh against excessive abrasion caused by holster wear.

The two front pockets are a deep slash pattern, with additional bartack and binding tape along the pocket’s edge for reinforcement and to account for excess wear due to retention clip items (such as pocket knives). The Viktos “Unconquered” branding appears on the interior of the front right pocket. On the top of each thigh is an 8” wide, gusseted cargo pocket that is stitched to accommodate two rifle magazines (with elastic support cuffs inside the cargo pocket), and a pocket knife slot that can be easily accessed while sitting in a vehicle.

The two rear pockets are zipper-secured with bands of nylon, adding reinforcement to the exterior pocket flap.

The knee segments are articulated using Viktos’ Attackposture™ design, a four-way, flexible panel that provides maximum flexibility to accommodate a variety of shooting stances. At each knee, and in the upper front pockets is a similar four-way articulation panel for added breathability and flexibility. The outward-facing side of the knee also includes an internal pocket for inserting generic neoprene knee pads (not included).

Each pant cuff has only a single stitch line for modest reinforcement, and to prevent/limit any fraying or compromise to the material.

The Patrolux MC pant comes in Multicam (featured) and Multicam Dark. Its sizing runs from a 28” waist to 44” and an inseam from 30” to 36”.

Product Evaluation Scores:

• Cost – Good (4/5): At the list price of $175, the Patrolux MC is Viktos latest tactical pant and draws upon some elements of its Contractor line to provide the end-user with a dedicated range/field pant. For the price users get a very durable and functional set of trousers for the range (even if that range includes rock, mud, or sand). While the defacto king of trousers in the current market type is Crye, whose trousers run between $247 and $400 and can be a little tough for the average consumer to afford. More realistically Direct Action’s Vanguard ($199 USD) trousers are an appropriate comparator, as would be UF Pro’s Striker ($199 USD) trousers, or Massif’s Combat Pant ($275). Obviously there are innumerable market alternatives that are more inexpensive, such as Tru-Spec’s 24×7 or Propper’s HLX, but these were trousers that did not have similarities in materials, stitching, or design. Among the market, this gave the Patrolux MC a good level of affordability when considering what it brings to the table.
• Comfort – Good (4/5): Worn for several iterations at the range and in a variety of stressors, the Patrolux MC remained extremely flexible and comfortable, with more flexibility in the knee than the previous Contractor pant. While often the crotch is the point where trousers bind in more extreme movements, the Patrolux had an extensive amount of gusset to allow for a wide range of motion, as did the Attackposture™ material (which is really a type of four-way elastic nylon) included in the yolk and across the waist of the trousers. Likewise, the four-way elastic material just above the knee gave the Patrolux a good deal of flex when taking a knee or bringing the leg up into the chest. One notable feature for comfort was the padded waistline; filled with a thin layer of open-cell foam, it was extremely comfortable against a duty or range belt and more so against the skin during dynamic movements. Another positive aspect of the Patrolux over the Contractor was an ability to add padding (not included) to the knees (be it by the sleeve on the leg’s exterior) so if you take a knee on uneven or rocky terrain some added protection could be afforded.
• Durability – Good (4/5): The Patrolux was made from a blend of cotton and nylon that gave the trousers an average level of durability and stiffness, while retaining a good degree of breathability. The conditions tested in included water, mud, rock, and on concrete and aside from usual wear the material retained an average level or abrasion resistance. The trousers were put through four wash cycles and no loose threading or fading of material was noted. Final examination revealed that the Patrolux had a high level of bartack stitching along the belt line and high-stress points of the pockets, with double-line stitching on pockets, crotch, and leg cuffs. These all ensured that there was no compromise of the stitching or material, and if it were to ever become so then it would be limited to the affected area. The only concern was the plastic top button to the fly, it was only secured by a single band of nylon. Under hard usage, similar buttons retained in the same manner have either been ripped off by gear or simply broken and it would be recommended to Viktos to consider metal snap-type buttons in future field pants for added strength and stand less chance of being torn off.
• Functionality – Excellent (5/5): Functionally, the number of pockets on the Patrolux was extremely useful. Most could easily accommodate a rifle or pistol magazine, and it was noted the cargo pockets on the front thigh expectedly had some difficulty accessing when wearing a drop-belt holster. The flap of the cargo pockets themselves did a good job of keeping the pocket’s opening concealed and under a lowered profile. The fly itself had two shuttles, so there was no need to have to undo any range/battle belt if visiting the restroom. A good deal of the Patrolux’s functionality was put into making it comfortable while worn for an extensive time (4+ hours) and regardless of conditions. Perhaps the biggest positive of the Patrolux was the four-way stretch fabric included at the waist, pockets, and knees that ensured good flexibility and comfort when performing stressor positions and avoided any kind of pinch by fabric getting pulled. Indeed it was very reminiscent of Tru-Spec’s XPedition pants; however, Viktos seemed to have resolved the issue by avoiding the four-way stretch material in the crotch gusset, thus not suffering from the same stitch separation due to high stress tearing at the threads. Perhaps the only notable (minor) area for recommendation is the lack of a double line stitch at the pant cuff, as that is an area of high abrasion/contact and would better improve the longevity of the fabric. Lastly, while the Patrolux did include external slots for inserting some type of flat neoprene knee pad. Viktos does not include such items on their website nor with the trousers itself, so the end user will be on their own to provide one. It would also be advisable for Viktos to either move the knee pad pocket to the inside of the trouser leg and avoid debris entering the slot opening, or at the very least to add a band of hook-and-loop at the opening to ensure it remains closed while worn or the pad doesn’t slip out.
• Weight – Average (3/5): Weighing in at 1.10 pounds (for a size 38” waist and 34” inseam) the Patrolux Multicam Pant had a good amount of blended nylon, four-way stretch material, and appropriate room for movement through its waist, knees, and upper thigh. The material itself added resistance to abrasion and limited any potential tears to the stitching. Moreover, the Patrolux also came in at a little lighter than the previous Contractor MC pants (1.72lb), but was in-line with other tactical trousers like the Crye Gen 3 (1.6 pounds), the Vanguard (1.32 pounds), UF Pro’s Striker (2.09 pounds), and the Massif’s Combat Pant (2.0 pounds). Perhaps the Patrolux’s lighter materials in its Attackposture design lent itself to a slightly lighter profile in comparison, while still allowing for flexible fabric and the breathability to mitigate heat.

Overall Rating – Good (20/25)

Product Link: https://viktos.com/bottoms/pants/patrolux-mc-pant/

I am reviewing this product as a courtesy to the manufacturer and via High Ground Media, 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 Pelican CRATE 45L represents a significant change in the company’s approach to vehicle-based cargo storage, combining the ruggedized construction and environmental protection associated with the company’s traditional protective cases with a modular organization system intended for changing equipment loadouts.

Pelican describes the CRATE 45L as a modular, ruggedized all-terrain transport ecosystem, with the 45L model providing 1.58 ft³ of internal storage in a relatively compact package. The shell is constructed from Pelican’s proprietary HPXC polymer, and carries an IP67 rating for protection against dust and water. It incorporates the company’s ModRail system, which provides exterior attachment points for compatible tie-downs, mounts, and accessories.

Exterior

The CRATE 45L utilizes a molded polypropylene shell that provides the rigid exterior structure necessary for vehicle-based cargo storage and environmental protection. The exterior measures approximately 20.1″ (L) × 16.3″ (W) × 12.1″ (H), providing a relatively compact footprint while retaining 45 liters of storage capacity. Pelican rates the case IP67, meaning that when properly closed and latched, it is designed to resist dust intrusion and water immersion to a depth of 1 meter for up to 30 minutes.

For the purposes of design, the front and rear of the CRATE 45L are identical in reinforcement and contours, except for the 3-Micron Hydrophobic Non-Woven purge valve on the front that enables for equalization of interior pressure.

Likewise, both sides of the CRATE 45L are similar in that they both share reinforced grab handles on opposing sides, allowing it to be lifted and moved manually. The sides also have a single aluminum rail to be used in conjunction with locking cleats or other anchoring points (not included) to secure the CRATE.

One of the more significant exterior changes from the Cargo line is the CRATE’s lid closure system. Rather than relying exclusively on conventional flip-lock latches, the CRATE incorporates push-button clamps that allow the lid to be released from either side. The lid can also be removed entirely when unobstructed access to the interior is preferred.

The top of the CRATE also incorporates a series of molded interfaces designed to interlock with the foot cleats on the bottom of another case. This allows multiple CRATE cases to be stacked securely rather than simply placed one on top of another. The interlocking design is particularly useful for vehicle-based storage where cargo may otherwise shift during transit.

Interior

Inside, the CRATE 45L provides approximately 17.8″ (L) × 13.9″ (W) × 11″ (D) of usable space, providing a total internal volume of approximately 1.58 ft³. Unlike Pelican’s Protector cases, the CRATE does not rely on a permanently configured foam interior. Instead, the open interior is intended to accept modular organizational components that can be rearranged as the user’s equipment requirements change.

The CRATE also supports the installation of Pelican’s EZ-Click MOLLE lid panel, allowing additional equipment and organizational accessories to be mounted inside the lid. Pelican’s current accessory ecosystem includes the divider panel set, EZ-Click MOLLE lid panel, inner tray, ModRail cleat, and ModRail bar loops.

The result is an interior that functions less like a conventional storage box and more like a configurable equipment-management system.

Other Specifications:

• Exterior Dimensions…………….20.1″ × 16.3″ × 12.1″
• Interior Dimensions……………..17.8″ × 13.9″ × 11″
• Internal Volume……………………1.58 ft³
• Weight………………………………….13 lbs
• Minimum Temperature……….-40° F (-40° C)
• Maximum Temperature……….190° F (87.8° C)
• Padlock Hole Diameter………….0.31″
• Body Material……………………….Polypropylene / HPXC polymer
• Latch Material………………………Nylon
• O-Ring Material…………………….Silicone
• Pressure-Equalization Valve…3-micron hydrophobic non-woven membrane
• Warranty………………………………Lifetime Guarantee of Excellence

The CRATE 45L is available in multiple exterior colors, including the Desert Tan (featured) and black. Pelican backs the CRATE with its Lifetime Guarantee of Excellence.

Product Evaluation Scores:

• Cost – Good (4/5): With an MSRP of $224.95 for the case alone (or $279.95 with the organization kit), the CRATE 45L sits toward the higher end of the general-purpose rugged cargo-storage market, but its 1.58 ft³ of internal storage, modular design, and IP67 -rated construction provide capabilities beyond those of basic storage containers. Compared with Pelican’s BX140R Cargo Case, which carries an MSRP of $496.95 and provides approximately 4.02 ft³ of storage, the CRATE is substantially less expensive and more compact, while placing greater emphasis on organization and modularity rather than maximum capacity. Comparable protective cases include the NANUK 940, which provides 36.7L (1.30 ft³) of internal storage for approximately $219.95, and the SKB iSeries 2217-8 Overland, which provides approximately 46L (1.62 ft³) for approximately $209.99. The CRATE therefore remains competitively priced for its 45L capacity while offering a more adaptable interior organization system and stackable design. Although the optional organization components increase the overall investment, the $224.95 base price represents a good value for users seeking a rugged, weather-resistant case with greater configurability than a conventional protective or cargo case.
• Comfort – Good (4/5): The CRATE 45L was relatively easy to transport when empty or moderately loaded, with its 13-pound (empty) weight and compact dimensions, which made it easier to maneuver in and out of a vehicle than larger Cargo cases. The reinforced side handles provided adequate leverage for lifting, although their rigid, slightly angled design and lack of a padded or rubberized grip concentrated the weight against the fingers when the case was fully loaded, creating mild discomfort during repeated movement. A broader or molded rubber grip would improve ergonomics without significantly increasing the case’s size or weight. The removable lid was another practical advantage, allowing the case to be opened from either side or removed entirely for unrestricted access, particularly useful when working around vehicles or in confined spaces.
• Durability – Good (4/5): The CRATE 45L demonstrated the structural durability expected from a Pelican hard case, with its molded HPXC polymer shell remaining rigid and the lid, latches, and exterior components functioning normally throughout evaluation. Pelican rates the case IP67 and incorporates a continuous O-ring and automatic pressure-equalization valve for environmental protection, with a specified operating range of -40°F to 190°F. No functional degradation was observed during handling, transport, or environmental exposure, although the ModRail mounting system could not be evaluated because the associated CRATE Mount and hardware were not included as part of the review.
• Functionality – Excellent (5/5): Functionality was the strongest aspect of the CRATE 45L, as it expanded upon the rugged storage concept of Pelican’s earlier Cargo cases with significantly greater organization and adaptability. The optional divider panels, inner tray, and EZ-Click MOLLE lid panel provided multiple ways to organize equipment, while the removable, multi-position lid improved accessibility by allowing the case to be opened from either side or removed entirely in confined spaces. The molded stacking interfaces also could allow multiple CRATE cases to interlock securely, while the exterior ModRail system and additional strap slots provided flexible options for securing the case and attaching accessories. Although much of the CRATE’s expanded functionality was dependent on accessories that are sold separately, the base case still provided a useful degree of flexibility without requiring permanent modifications. This adaptability proved particularly valuable for users with changing equipment requirements, allowing the interior configuration to be tailored to different loadouts more easily than traditional foam-lined cases.
• Weight – Good (4/5): Weighing in at 13 pounds (empty), the CRATE 45L represents a reasonable compromise between lightweight portability and heavier protective construction. The weight of the 45L was noticeably greater than that of a conventional plastic storage tote (with its very limited reinforcement, the 8.4-pound NANUK 940, or the approximately 11-pound SKB iSeries 2217-8 Overland. But the additional mass of the CRATE reflects the rigid, sealed construction required to achieve Pelican’s IP67 rating and the case’s overall added durability. The CRATE’s weight becomes more significant once the case is filled. Because the case is designed primarily for vehicle-based transport and staging rather than extended manual carry, this is not necessarily a major drawback. Compared with larger vehicle storage cases, the CRATE’s relatively compact dimensions and lower overall weight made it considerably easier to move around a vehicle or work area. The primary concern remained the previously noted side handle design, which made the weight more noticeable when the case is heavily loaded and something end-users should take note of. Overall, the CRATE 45L strikes a practical balance between structural strength, storage capacity, and portability.

Overall Rating – Above Average (21/25)

Product Link: https://www.pelican.com/us/en/product/cases/CR45?sku=CR45-00010-TAN-BDL&utm  

I am reviewing this product as a courtesy to the manufacturer and via High Ground Media, 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.

This article has been updated with feedback from the manufacturer. It includes corrections to funcationality and durability. 

The importance of timing, in any competitive training, cannot be over-emphasized. Without understanding where you are, you can never know what you need to do to improve.

Regardless if your preference is in the competition shooting sports, tactical, or defense—the use of an electronic timing device is as important as the ammo that feeds the gun, or batteries that power the optics. Introduced in 2006, the Competitive Edge Dynamic (CED) 7000 Shot Timer remains one of the top chosen timers in the industry. It accommodates a broad array of shooting styles and training modes that ensure consistently fast, reliable, and accurate timing to track your performance.

The CED7000 is like many of its competitors; a full-feature, audio-detection shot timer that can be worn in a number of configurations or positions. CED offers a full line of support accessories that complement the CED7000 to include; “big shot” display board, carry holsters, and colored cases. However, unlike any of the other leading shot timer on the market, the CED7000 is smaller than (most) modern smartphone (actually measuring 3.9″ x 1.8″ x 0.7″) and weighs just as little. Combined with its internal lithium rechargeable battery, this translates to hours of range time without worrying about the shot timer’s size or where to position it during stages.

By the numbers, the CED7000 comes with a two-year warranty and offers a host of features:

Nine different modes:

• Range Officer Mode (a mode expressly for ROs)
• “Silent” Operation (for Cowboy shooting)
• Repetitive (for “turning” target systems)
• Comstock
• Combined Comstock
• “Spy” Mode (good for a 2^nd RO to use as a backup timer)
• Stop Watch
• Countdown
• Alarm Clock

Four different Par Time settings:

• Single
• Custom
• Automatic
• Multi-Par (Up to 11 Par times)

Fixed (3 second), Random (2-5 second), Instant, or Custom time delay

Adjustable microphone sensitivity, shot filter, and buzzer volume

Product Evaluation Scores:

• Cost – Average (3/5): $119 – $129. In comparison to the current market of available shot timers, the CED7000 is reasonably priced. Occasionally, an online coupon or discount code is available for some of the larger distributors to further lower the cost. For an additional $10 you can get either the chrome or “tactical” model with the RF emitter pre-installed for the CED “big shot” board.
• Comfort – Good (4/5): At 80 grams or 2.9 ounces, the CED7000 is amazingly light, and if worn by a neck lanyard throughout the day, its weight is hardly notable. Its 110db+, 2500hz audio chirp is clear and very distinct. The only notable negative mark here is the small size of the LCD screen makes the corresponding times and other readings smaller than it would appear on other shot timers. The LCD does illuminate whenever a reading or entry is made, which aids low-light/no-light training greatly, then automatically turns the illumination off after 30 seconds of inactivity.
• Durability – Good (4/5): The exterior housing of the CED7000 is a commercial-grade plastic, and with the add-on silicone protective case and screen shield, the most questionable part of the CED7000’s design is the connection point between the rechargeable battery and the AC power cable. CED responded saying that despite 100,000 units sold since launch, they have never had a single issue in this regard, and less than 0.02% returns for failure of the power adapter.  CED does offer a subsequent battery exchange service that will likely address any potential issue, or when the rechargeable battery no longer maintains a sufficient charge. It should be noted CED has also only had a 1% return rate for button wear.
• Functionality – Good (4/5): And to be clear, the only reason the CED7000 did not make higher marks for Funcationality was because while it has a tremendous number of modes and features, navigating through them is limited to four buttons and a directional toggle. The consumer really needs to be familiar with how to navigate through the menus and change the settings, or find one they consistently want to use and leave it alone. The CED7000’s ability to adjust sensitivity and mitigate other shooters on the range, or echo is also a plus.
• Weight – Excellent (5/5): As stated, the CED7000 is amazingly light and compact. This earns the shot timer solid marks in comparison to other market shot timers that can weigh upwards of three times in weight, and almost as much in size—yet still have the same functionality.

Overall Rating – Very Good (21/25)

Competitive Edge Dynamic 7000 Shot Timer: https://www.cedhk.com/ced7000-shot-timer

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.