High Ground Media, LLC

Responding to consumers who loved the Micro Trauma Kit Now, but still wanted an associated tourniquet that was readily accessible, Blue Force Gear developed the Hammock.

Developed as a sleeve of milspec Ten-Speed elastic and solution-dyed Cordura, with a backpanel of ULTRAcomp laminate (that provides the material for the Helium Whisper mounting system), the Hammock allows the user to mount a CAT tourniquet (or similar sized rescue strap) directly under any of the medical kits by Blue Force Gear or other MOLLE-mounting aid kits. It offers nearly full-length UV protection of the TQ over simple shock cord attachments thanks to its material.

Specifications:

• Overall Dimensions: 5” (L) x 3” (H) x 3/8” (W)

The Hammock is available in Multicam (featured), Black, and Coyote Brown.

Product Evaluation Scores:

• Cost – Good (4/5): At $12.95 the Hammock is a simple sleeve of nylon material with a semi-rigid backpanel. The purpose of the Hammock is to augment Blue Force Tactical’s line of medical kits by placing the tourniquet external to the kit, and still be within easy reach. In terms of cost, shooters have used everything from shock cords, elastic cuffs, and more elaborate means to retain tourniquets to belts, plate carriers, helmets, or wherever it could be accessible. The closest comparable alternative on the current market would be the Rapid Tourniquet Holder by RE Factor ($22.95) or the CAT Tourniquet Holder by T. Rex Arms ($15.00). The Hammock’s relative low cost and unique mounting system gave it a good scoring.
• Comfort – Good (4/5): The Hammock’s material was very pliable and thus offered a perfect level of retention to the tourniquet. Depending on where the associated mounting kit was positioned, the Hammock was either readily accessible on top of the pouch or slung underneath. Drawing the tourniquet was a little difficult however, because in essence you are pulling against the elastic material that is enclosed against the tourniquet, so unless the user’s pulling straight back/out, the draw angle (due to curvature of the body or belt) made deployment slightly difficult.
• Durability – Good (4/5): With the main material comprised of Blue Force Gear’s 500D Ten-Speed elastic nylon and Helium Whisper backing (using ULTRAcomp laminate with a denier rating of over 1000D), the Hammock by itself had a high-degree of durability. Over time some minimal fraying was noted along the edging of the Hammock’s ends, but that was comparable to other Ten-Speed items. But none of it rose to the level to compromise the integrity of the product.
• Functionality – Average (3/5): Very simplified, the Hammock did exactly what it was designed to do. Add to that, the Hammock was mountable to other MOLLE-enabled pouches unrelated to the Blue Force Gear’s product line, and the Hammock had broad applicability. By itself, the Hammock was better for securing a tourniquet over shock cord or other field expedient means, but is comparable to other dedicated tourniquet pouches. There is no Ball Loaded Index Point and basically the user just grabs the tourniquet and pulls. While easily deployed one-handed, re-holstering the tourniquet into the Hammock required both hands.
• Weight – Good (4/5): At a mere 19 grams (0.6 ounces) empty, the Hammock had a good degree of minimal weight thanks in large part to its Helium Whisper mounting system. The system drastically reduced the overall materials and corresponding weight needed. In comparison, the Rapid Tourniquet Holder (approx. 1.6 ounces) and the CAT Tourniquet Holder (approx. 1 ounce) both demonstrate that the Hammock is of lesser weight than more traditional designs.

Overall Rating – Above Average (19/25)

Product Link: https://www.blueforcegear.com/hammock

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 its improved design and features, the Warhawk Modular Gun Belt by Direct Action offers end users the ability to integrate a variety of pouches and accessories on a solid, two-part foundation. The result is a functional battle belt that can be adapted to meet any need whether it be on the rage or in the field.

With a variety of components, the Warhawk Modular Gun Belt brings together some of the most advanced materials and design available on the current market. 

Mustang Inner Belt

As noted in the review of Direct Action’s Mosquito Battle Belt System, the Mustang Inner Belt is intended as the base belt for other DA systems. It is a thin, flexible belt that can be utilized for EDC wear, but in a moment’s notice can mount to the inner hook-and-loop (female) material of the Mustang and Mosquito line of belts.

The Inner Belt is made from a combination of nylon laminate on the inward facing side, and hook-and-loop (male) on the outer.

The Inner Belt threads itself though the belt loops that helps prevent ride-up, while ensuring positive retention to other systems. A plastic pass-through belt loop allows the belt to be reversed back on itself to corresponding hook-and-loop material for a customized fit.

Specifications:

• Size M:
  • Length: 36-39”
• Size L:
  • Length: 39-43”
• Size XL:
  • Length: 43-47”

Product Link: https://us.directactiongear.com/mustang-inner-belt#CBR

Warhawk Modular Gun Belt

The Warhawk Modular Gun Belt is the revision to its predecessor the standard DA Warhawk belt, and is intended to be more adaptable to DA and other aftermarket pouches and accessories, while still offering solid retention. As such, the Modular Gun Belt can be worn in conjunction with the Mustang Inner Belt or by itself.

Using a genuine AustriAlpin Cobra Belt Buckle with integrated D-Ring, the bottom layer of the Modular Gun Belt includes a 45mm-wide, Type 13 band of nylon webbing. Moreover, the overlap material is significantly reinforced with additional stitching to prevent separation under high separation stressors. On the outmost layer of the Modular Gun Belt is a low-profile, laser-cut laminate nylon band, segmented with bartack stitching and reinforced with an High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) insert to form a MOLLE-compatible panel on which the user can hang any accessory.

The inner facing side of the Modular Gun Belt has a band of hook-and-loop (female) material that extends the length of the belt for bonding to associated male fields on the Mustang belts or other accessories. Any excess material is secured by an elastic cuff to the belt itself.

Specifications:

• Size M:
  • Length: 36-39”
• Size L:
  • Length: 39-43”
• Size XL:
  • Length: 43-47”

The Warhawk Modular Gun Belt is available in Multicam (featured), Adaptive Green, Black, PennCott Badlands, and more.

Product Link: https://us.directactiongear.com/warhawk-modular-belt

Medical Pouch – Vertical

A basic sleeve/insert design, the 1.75” (W) x 7.0” (H) x 3.5” (L) Vertical Medical Pouch is an envelope-style IFAK with a vertical draw that makes it comfortable and compact when stowed on the belt.

Made from a combination of materials, the outer sleeve comprises of Cordura and laminate nylon front/back panels with elastic shock cordage sides that allow for flex of the sides to accommodate the size of the medical insert pouch. The word “MED” is written on pinpoint ink lettering on the outward facing exterior to clearly mark it as an aid pouch. Anchoring the front flap is a pull-handle of hypalon that allows for immediate access to the insert.

The rear of the Vertical Medical Pouch includes two laminate nylon MOLLE straps that allow the overall pouch to be connected to the Warhawk Modular Gun Belt, plate carriers, or other MOLLE fields.

The medical insert itself is a triangular envelope style that, when opened, lies flat for maximum access to its contents. Anchoring the envelope together when closed, and into the outer sleeve pouch, are small fields of hook-and-loop (female) in key points of retention.

The medical insert itself has two intersecting bands of elastic nylon that are segmented to different lengths to allow for the storage of a variety of medical items. At the bottom of the triangular insert is a mesh pocket for other items.

The Med Pouch – Vertical is available in Multicam (featured), Adaptive Green, Black, PennCott Badlands, and more.

Product Link: https://us.directactiongear.com/med-pouch-vertical#MCM

Speed Reload Pouch (Pistol)

Made from folded Cordura with rigid HDPE inserts, the Speed Reload Pouch for pistol magazines offers rapid draw of magazines with no loss of retention.

The enclosing shock chord, with speed lock, is wrapped through laser-cut MOLLE sections and allows for easy adjustment of tension.

The rear features a laminate nylon MOLLE strap that joins to associated fields on the Mosquito Modular Belt Sleeve or other MOLLE fields.

Product Link: https://us.directactiongear.com/speed-reload-pouch-pistol#MCM

Speed Reload Pouch (Rifle)

Similar in design and materials to the pistol pouch, the Speed Reload Pouch for rifle magazines is made from folded Cordura with rigid HDPE inserts, and allows for the rapid draw of magazines with no loss of retention.

The enclosing shock chord, with speed lock, is wrapped through laser-cut MOLLE sections and allows for easy adjustment of tension.

The rear features a laminate nylon MOLLE strap that joins to associated fields on the Mosquito Modular Belt Sleeve or other MOLLE fields.

Product Link: https://us.directactiongear.com/speed-reload-pouch-rifle#MCM

Product Evaluation Scores:

• Cost – Good (4/5): The cost of each component to the DA Battle Belt varies based on color pattern selected, and in some cases size:
  • Mustang Inner Belt (Size: Large)……………….$26.40
  • Warhawk Modular Gun Belt (Size: Large)…$109.00
  • Medical Pouch (Vertical)…………………………..$71.90
  • Speed Reload Pouch (Pistol)……………………..$25.40
  • Speed Reload Pouch (Rifle)………………….……$34.90
  • The total cost for the evaluated DA battle belt system ran $327.90 USD. This price also represents the Warhawk Modular Gun Belt system comprising of some of the most current designs and materials available on the market (like laminate nylon). In comparison, a similar battle belt setup by First Spear ($474.76), HSGI ($595), and GCode ($295) all demonstrate that the cost for DA’s system is of a good value within the market range of options. Reinforcing this scoring is that the DA system has many of the characteristics and materials of more expensive systems at a fraction of their cost.
• Comfort – Average (3/5): From a comfort aspect, the Warhawk Modular Gun Belt with its mounted accessories felt much like many other quality belts, with a minimalist profile and solid/secure hold on the buckle and magazines. From its foundation, the Mustang Inner Belt was very light and did provide a nice daily-wear style belt to trousers while worn throughout the day and around the range. When the time came to working on the firing line, the Warhawk Modular Gun Belt was easily mated to the inner Mustang belt and provided a secure hold to the body. The AustriAlpin buckle did provide a solid and audible lock consistently throughout the evaluations by taking it on and off. On a note of comfort, for the Speed Pouches, the High Density Poly Ethylene plastic inserts provide much the same rapid and comfortable drawing/insertion as other aftermarket kydex pouches, by ensuring it retains a stable shape when in use and while the magazine is out. Elsewhere the design of the Medical Pouch; with its vertical low-profile and envelope style insert, kept a comfortable position and did not sag or move excessively, even when fully loaded with necessary aid items.
  • The one noted aspect in comfort for the consumer to be aware of was some moderate chafing was experience from the pistol pouches towards the front of the Warhawk Modular Gun Belt. This was due to the full length of the HDPE inserts on the backside (closest to the body) of the pouch, which resulted in the corners being somewhat sharp. After sufficient dynamic movements, the corner had rubbed that spot on the body raw. This could be remedied by the end-user be using a rotary tool to round out the corners, but perhaps Direct Action may want to consider an alternative in the backside design of the Speed Pouches (either by reducing the amount of HDPE near the edges or rounding out the corners ever slightly).
• Durability – Excellent (5/5): The overriding volume of material used throughout the DA Warhawk Modular Gun Belt system was a combination of Cordrua and laminate nylon; with a corresponding balance between threaded nylon used elsewhere, and other materials (shock cord, cinch hardware, AustriAlpin buckle, etc.). The choice of this material put the Warhawk system on par with many other high-end performing platforms, such as Crye, Grey Ghost Gear, and First Spear. In comparison, other more traditional systems rely exclusively (or predominantly) on thicker nylon—something which makes them heavier and retains moisture. The use of laminate nylon alone typically has an 1000D abrasion rating, and with the added 500D Cordura material, made the overall Warhawk system light and durable to both tension and abrasion, in dynamic movements and heavy use. After evaluations, no fraying at the laser-cut MOLLE fields or stretching of the laminate nylon was noted, while the retention of the Speed Pouches remained consistent throughout.
• Functionality – Good (4/5): Functionally, as a whole, the overall Warhawk Modular Gun Belt system worked very well in conjunction with its various elements and achieved the goal of providing a comfortable and stable platform for the end user. The Mustang Inner Belt allowed trousers, like Direct Action’s Vanguard used during several evaluations, to be worn comfortably around the range, in vehicles, or elsewhere in daily life. It also provided for an immediate-application platform that bonded to the inner lining of the Warhawk Modular Gun Belt, which in turn readily allowed access to pouches and accessories. In all the system worked amazingly well together.
  • Added onto the battle belt were four Speed Pouches (two rifle, two pistol) that provided full access and retention as compared to other industry-leading pouches (in good part to its HDPE inserts). The full length laser-cut MOLLE field on the Warhawk Modular Gun Belt allowed for individual customization and as such, the Vertical Dump Pouch was placed easily in a position where it could be readily accessed and not unnecessarily press against the lower lumbar when sitting or driving. The Vertical Medical Kit was of sufficient storage space to accommodate; one CAT-T, one Israeli Battle Dressing, one gauze roll, one nasopharyngeal airway tube, one set of medical shears, one Quick Clot packet, and one chest seal. Despite all these medical items, there was still sufficient space left to add other smaller items or accessories. The medical pouch insert itself remained compact and secure enough (due to its hook-and-loop enclosures) it could also be kept in a pocket as a dump pouch item should it be needed immediately.
  • The only point of improvement recommended to Direct action on the Warhawk Modular Gun Belt would be to examine the spacing of the MOLLE segments. When properly attached, there was still a significant range of motion so as to permit pistol pouches (which utilize a single retention band) to angle forward and back, or up and down. This was resolved to some degree when adding rifle pouches (which utilize two retention bands) behind the pistol that acted as a base behind the pouches.
• Weight – Good (4/5): With an overall weight of 1.35 pounds (empty) in its current configuration (2x rifle pouches, 2x pistol pouches, and IFAK), the Warhawk Modular Gun Belt system utilized a blend of 500D Cordura and laminate nylon to maintain a relative light overall weight. This weight can vary based on the application of the user (i.e. what pouches are used), and the Warhawk’s lightweight system sat very comfortably on the hip. In comparison, a belt system by First Spear (2.15 pounds) and GCode (2.15 pounds) demonstrate the light weight benefits of using combined materials (such as Cordura and laminate nylon). In contrast, the HSGI battle belt (4.01 pounds) demonstrates the increased weight when using a more traditional nylon-based product system. As such, for its weight, material type, and number of pouches included in the evaluated battle belt system, the DA battle belt was still among the more lightweight ones available.

Overall Rating – Good (20/25)

Product Link: https://us.directactiongear.com

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.

Building off the past success of its Savior Equipment Mobile Arsenal (SEMA) backpack, in 2019 Savior Equipment released a Compact variant of the same bag that was 30% lighter, but retains the same functionality of the original.

The SEMA-Compact, or SEMA-C, is made entirely from 600D polyester and includes a lockable internal polymer handgun case that secures and protects your handguns inside the pack. The double stitching throughout adds durability to the overall backpack’s design.

Exterior

At the front, the SEMA-C has a laser-cut, MOLLE compatible field for additional accessories or pouches. At the top is a large (female) hook-and-loop field for identification of morale patches. Between these features is a zipper-secured kangaroo pouch for smaller, immediate access items.

Behind the front is a zipper-secured administrative compartment that includes; two mesh pockets secured via zipper, three accessory pockets (two of which offer shock cord retention), and three pockets with hook-and-loop flaps of varying sizes. It should be noted that the dual zippers to the admin compartment open along all three sides, thus allowing the front interior to lay completely flat for a convenient workspace.

On the bag’s left side is another laser-cut, MOLLE panel for smaller accessories, pouches, or IFAKs. Oppositely, on the bags right is a zipper-secured access panel that gives the user direct access to the hardened handgun case that includes three individual soft, lockable fold-over handgun cases. It should be noted the handgun case itself encompass half of the internal storage space of the backpack, but is removable if so desired. Both sides also include compression straps secured via slide-release buckles.

At the top of the SEMA-C is a reinforced nylon carry handle that includes X-type stitching and ends in a plastic D-ring on either side to hang carabiners or other hook-type items. An added bonus to the SEMA-C is a hidden rain cover that is stored in a concealed pocket just above the top of the shoulder straps.

The backpanel of the SEMA-C includes three, thick air-mesh padded zones (two shoulder and one kidney) that provide comfort and improved airflow. The shoulder strap themselves are contoured and similarly padded, and include an adjustable sternum strap. At the bottom of the backpanel is a removable nylon waist strap with large slide-release buckle.

The bottom of the SEMA-C has four aggressively contoured polymer pads for added retention of the backpack on slick surfaces.

Interior

The interior of the SEMA-C is accessed at the top via zipper, and has a storage space of only half the overall height of the bag (while the hardened pistol case is installed). At the back is a hydration sleeve with access through the top of the pack.

If desired, the internal divider between the storage space and hardened pistol case can be removed, as well as the case, to provide storage access to the full height of the backpack. Doing so however, means loss of the SMEA-C’s handgun storage case.

Specifications:

• External Size: 16” (H) x 11” (W) x 9” (D)
• Hardened Handgun Case Size: 8” (H) x 7” (W) x 11” (D)
• Individual Soft Pistol Case Size: 8” (H) x 10.5” (W) x 1” (D)
• Storage Space Size w/Hard Case Installed: 7.5” (H) x 10.5” (W) x 7” (D)
• 600D Polyester Exterior & Interior Shell
• TSA Compliant Zippers

The SEMA-C is available in Obsidian Black (featured), FDE Tan, Ash Gray, and OD Green.

Product Evaluation Scores:

• Cost – Good (4/5): At $89.99 the SEMA-C has a fair enough amount of 600D material and the polymer pistol case to warrant the design and function. The closest competitor to the SEMA-C is the Talon Strong Backpack ($99.95) by Double Alpha Academy or the GPS Tactical Range Bag ($154). The market has further alternatives that are comparable to these costs, and in almost all of them the SEMA-C was one of the lesser expensive options, and thus gave it a good scoring for its place within the current market.
• Comfort – Average (3/5): Like most tactical backpacks, the thick air-mesh foam pads of the SEMA-C’s backpanel and shoulder straps gave it sufficient padding as found in other packs. When fully loaded with three handguns, ammo, and range accessories the weight of the SEMA-C bore on the lower back to some degree, but that pressure was offset by the kidney pad. It should be noted that users will want to keep the weight of the pack up high where it will be most comfortable, and not let the bag droop to where the weight would also pull on the shoulders. Otherwise the laser-cut panels and sleek exterior gave the SEMA-C a nice, low-profile and minimalist feel that could be easily built upon with either MOLLE-compatible pouches or accessories.
• Durability – Average (3/5): Given that the SEMA-C was made from the same 600D polyester material as other products in the Savior Equipment’s lineup, the material thus offered the same level of abrasion resistance. There was reinforced X-pattern and double line stitching noted at key stress points that ensured the pack was adequately strengthened. Internally, the divider between the main storage area and hardened pistol case could have used more attention as the threading and hook-and-loop didn’t fit precisely and took some manipulation to remove and then reinsert (however it was unclear if this was also by design). The zippers to the three pistol cases moved and felt smooth and did not bind at corners. Perhaps the biggest detractor to the overall durability score of the SEMA-C was the material of the admin compartment as it felt thin, and would likely not sustain longevity or abrasion if loaded with items that have hard/sharp/angled corners or were weighty thus limiting its usage.
• Functionality – Average (3/5): From a functional aspect the SEMA-C is much like its predecessor, the full-sized SEMA but was now is 30% lighter due to size reduction and less material. That said, the pack still had the same usage in transporting up to three pistols and associated range accessories. It should be noted however, that this reduction has come at a cost. While the SMEA-C retained the ability to transport firearms and accessories securely, the user must make the choice between what specifically is carried. The storage compartment is sufficient to carry electronic earpro, target pasters, gloves or other range items, but did not have sufficient space to carry those items and the associated ammo for all three firearms. This also does not include space if the user is also shooting a rifle and needs further space for those magazines and ammo as well. The designed intent for the SEMA-C makes it good for competitive IDPA/USPSA shooters, but not for general training or field use. It would have helped the SEMA-C’s overall score if there had been side loops for securing competition belts on the exterior, or had made the side MOLLE panel an elastic pocket to hold targets, a water bottle, or other items that otherwise had to go inside the storage space.
• Weight – Good (4/5): At 5.6 pounds (empty) a majority of that weight stems from the polymer handgun case and three pistol sleeves inside the pack. The 600D polyester material also had a slightly heavier weight to it than lesser denier nylon. In comparison, the Talon Strong Backpack came in at 5.7 pounds, and the GPS Tactical Range Bag was listed at 6.15 pounds. These alternatives all share the same overall design, but differences in materials were what made the SEMA-C one of the lighter options available.

Overall Rating – Above Average (17/25)

Product Link: https://www.saviorequipment.com/collections/pistol-case/products/sema-mobile-arsenal-backpack-compact

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.