High Ground Media, LLC

Intended as a grip for use in precision shooting or daily duty, the Vertical Crossover Grip (VCG) by MKMachining offers an ergonomic angle, large surface area, and an anti-slip texture that provides the end-user added accuracy and performance over extended periods.

Within the VCG family; MKM further diversifies the grip into several different models that address the more specific needs of various end-users. The VCG includes a “Recce” version, and a VCG-L (that incorporates an added beavertail on the grip itself). Both are made from a Nylon 12 material using a multi-jet fusion 3D printing process.

The VCG “Recce” itself is similar to the precision version (with thumb shelf), and offers a near-vertical 5-degree cant, and a 1.45” width with a slightly tapered lower ledge and rear profile. An anti-slip texture to the front and rear strap are ideal for precision shooters and help mitigate any moisture or slippage. 

Product Link: https://www.mkmachining.com/product/vertical-crossover-grip/

The primary differences between the VCG “Recce” and the VCG-L are nuanced, but have a direct purpose in design. The “L” is a joint development between MKM and Driven Arms Co. whereby it includes a beavertail (for a heightened grip posture), and the larger presentation of the grip is moved backwards 0.2” for a more direct alignment of the hand behind the trigger for those with larger hands, or desiring more purchasing space.

Product Link: https://www.mkmachining.com/product/beavertail-vertical-crossover-grip-vcg-l/

About the Process

MKM uses a 3D printing process known as Multi-Jet Fusion (MJF). This industrial-level printing process is like a CAT scan, whereby each layer is printed as one contiguous pass, and multiple products can be printed via a single sheet, into multiple complete products. Then a separate pass fuses the product only for that specific layer being printed, and a very thin layer of polymer is also added. The process repeats itself in each sequential layer and allows for far more product to be printed in the time it would take a traditional printer to produce one. Some examples of MKM’s MJF printing include:

• Printing picatinny mounted infrared lasers 3EI: https://www.instagram.com/p/Cd1mfz6uQHW/?hl=en
• Printing AR Stocks and Braces: https://www.instagram.com/p/CdtE36vODc6/?hl=en
• Printing scope caps and ARDs: https://www.instagram.com/p/Cgu9CZtub21/?hl=en
• Printing of an AR style grip for third-party: https://www.instagram.com/p/Cm5IXoErQRs/?hl=en

The MKM VCG series of rifle grips are available in a matte Black (featured), Grey, Tan, or OD Green.

Product Evaluation Scores:

• Cost – Average (3/5): Between $39.95 and $54.99 the Vertical Crossover Grip price point varies based on version (i.e. between VCG “Recce”, Precision, or the VCG-L) and configuration selected at the time of purchase. Additionally, an up charge of $10 is applied if other colors other than black are chosen. This price reflects MKMachining’s approach in applying its legacy of precision-stylized grips to mid and long guns. Made from Nylon 12 material, the VCG design allots for larger hands to have a larger coverage/surface area with a greater palm swell, and a more ergonomic angle off the rifle. Additionally, the material aspects that make the VCG a premium grip in terms of cost, are the same factors that also make it one of the lightest grips on the market. In contrast, the MOE K2-XL ($23.95) from Magpul, the Hexmag Tactical Grip ($34.99), the Ergo Grip w/Suregrip ($26), the P23 Grip (19.95) from B5 Systems, and Hogue’s over-molded rubberized grip ($26.95) demonstrate that the VCG is the more expensive—however it is appropriately (or of average) priced as the only one 3D printed with stronger nylon material vice traditional mold compression using polymers.
• Comfort – Good (4/5): From a comfort aspect, the VCG variants (both the “Recce” and the VCG-L) came down to the grip’s overall increased width and its palm swell over the traditional A2 style, and its higher approach angle off the lower receiver. The VCG-L had the added benefit of a beavertail at the top of the grip which allowed for a higher grip presentation. Over the course of 30 days, on both a 13.9” rifle and an 18” rifle, the longer length and non-slip surface texture did give a more tactile feel in the palm, with a good level of comfort for end-users with larger hands (mostly men) on the grip. Those with smaller hands (such as women) may find a longer purchase surface with the VCG than their ham-hand counterparts. There was no discernable edges or seams, and all surfaces were clearly smoothed down so as the grip appeared as a singular piece. Elsewhere, because of the near vertical five-degree angle to the lower receiver (steeper than most aftermarket grips), the wrist fell easily in-line with the trigger, and the wrist didn’t fatigue as easily when the firearm was held aloft over an extended time.
• Durability – Average (3/5): Both the VCG “Recce” and the VCG-L were made from the same Nylon 12 material that is frequently used in the 3D printing of outdoor products, and is a sturdier material than other traditional materials—particularly with its notable ability to resist brittleness from UV exposure. For the purposes of this review, both VCGs were dropped from equal shoulder height onto finished concrete ten times before being mounted to a rifle. They were also subjected to magazine strikes and contact with hard surfaces during stressor drills. The grips themselves held up appropriately (or of average) as other grips with regular use, weapon manipulation, and field stressors. The surface of the VCGs did not significantly wear or deteriorate along contact areas or overall—with only minor surface marring noted due to contact to hard surfaces.
• Functionality – Good (4/5): Simplistic in design; the function of the VCG “Recce” and VCG-L came down to both improving the principle comfort (addressed above) of the end-user with relation to presentation on the firearm (as is the intent of many in the MKMaching grip line) and precision—especially if holding a full-length rifle aloft over time or while on a bench. Both VCG grips had a tangible upswell in the palm (with a slightly more pronounced girth in the VCG-L), with slightly increased mass at the top of the grip. This filled the palm more completely, allotting more surface contact between the grip and the hand, and thus more tactile control. As the grip tapered towards the bottom, the near-vertical design also provided more control over the “roll” of the rifle (movement side to side) as it enabled the end-user to have a better sense of the rifle’s balance while being held. By steepening the angle of both the “Recce” and VCG-L to a more vertical angle, the end-user was able to keep a more direct line in grip on the trigger—thus alleviating stress and fatigue on the wrist. The VCGs provided a good alternative for those with larger hands that may find A2-style grips too narrow or more difficult to use. The thumb rest groove in the VCG was not as pronounced as other precision grips, but MKM does offer a precision version of the VCG (not featured) for those more interested in that design. Additionally, the non-slip ledge at the bottom of the grip provided a good base that supported the rest of the overall hand. The diamond surface texture and front/rear serrations also ensured a solid grip was maintained with, or without gloves. The only real difference between the “Recce” and VCG-L from a functional aspect was the VCG-L’s inclusion of the beavertail at the top of the grip and allowed end-user to get a much higher posture of the hand behind the fire controls that was more beneficial for rested precision shooting. The “Recce” in contrast lacked that feature and was more suitable for shooting styles whereby a variety of positions, stances, or settings would otherwise be encountered.
• Weight – Excellent (5/5): At 1.76 ounces (or 50 grams, w/o mounting hardware) both the Vertical Crossover Grip versions were very light weight due to the use of the Nylon 12 material materials that comprise the grip’s overall design. Moreover, the grip was not of enough weight to cause the overall rifle to become unbalanced or distracting. In contrast, the MOE K2-XL Grip (3.3 ounces), the Hexmag Tactical Grip (2.6 ounces), the Ergo Grip w/Suregrip (4.48 ounces), and Hogue’s over-molded rubberized grip (2.8 ounces) demonstrate that the VCG clearly capitalizes on its Nylon 12 material that keeps its weight minimal while sacrificing little in strength, and places the MKMaching grip excellently amid the market and competitors.

Overall Rating – Above Average (19/25)

Product Link: https://www.mkmachining.com/product-category/grips/

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.

Initially released in late 2022, the REIN 3.0 weapon light by Cloud Defensive continues to advance the initial design of the REIN by leveraging past knowledge and experience in producing some of the market’s leading weapon lights available.

The REIN (aka the Rail-Mounted Environmental IllumiNator) 3.0 has two designs; a full-sized body (featured in this review) and a “micro” variant with a smaller length body. Much like the previous versions, the REIN 3.0 is made (mostly) from certified 6061-T6 aluminum and has an overall length of 6.17”, with the largest diameter being 1.3” at the bezel/head. And while the REIN 2.0 can be run independently via its push-button tail switch, the 2.75” polymer remote switch is like the REIN 2.0 and can be mounted to any picatinny rail. The switch has a profile of just 0.5” off the top of the rail itself, with a slight reduction in bulk along the side plates for a more ergonomic fit.

The REIN 3.0 consists of three parts; the head, body and tailcap—with each component being fully backwards compatible to the previous REIN. Each is machined to precise specifications, and then anodized to meet ANSI/PLATO FL-1 impact resistance standards with a tan satin exterior (although other finishes are available). All segments are sealed via silicone rings to ensure against water and dust penetration. As such the REIN 3.0 (switch included) has been certified in IPX8 immersion testing for use while under 100’ of water for up to 24 hours.

At the head, the REIN 3.0 High Candela (HC) light element produces an emission of 100,000 candela/1,250 lumens (as opposed to the REIN 2.0 at 71,000 candela/1,100 lumens) of white-toned light. The head of the 3.0 is backwards compatible to previous REIN versions, however, per the FAQ page, the tailcap/spring of the original REIN is not forward compatible to the 2.0 or 3.0 and must never be attempted. The ability of the 3.0 to project its useable light forward is due to the combination of the upgraded electroformed reflector, power supply, and brighter LED emission. It is important to note that lumens are a measure of the potential light during performance. However, without an efficient focal point to concentrate the beam, lumens quickly disperse over an ever-widening range. In contrast, candela is the measure of light that is focused sufficiently to reach the target at a specific distance. While the REIN 3.0 does have an impressive 1,250 lumens (a common industry metric of measure), its crushing 100,000 candela is greater than any previous Cloud Defensive weapon light and allows for greater penetration of useable light through photonic barriers (such as smoke, dust, or opposing light sources). This allows end-users to recognize targets at a greater range.

The light element of the 3.0 includes a similar streamlined bezel as the 2.0, and is made from the same 6061-T6 aluminum as the body. The bezel of the head secures a military-grade 3mm thick glass that while robust, is the principle sacrificial element to the Rein 3.0. The glass is described by Cloud Defensive as low-iron glass, with 98% light transmission that was 40% thicker than other market competitors.

The body of the REIN 3.0 is made from a single piece milled aluminum. It includes the standard Surefire Scout mounting pattern for cross-compatibility with any number of aftermarket mounting accessories. The 3.0 does include a standard picatinny rail mount, that attaches via screw into the body’s mounting points. In addition, the interior of the body includes a patented adjustable battery jack that allows for adjustment/minimization between the space of the included full-sized 18650 rechargeable battery and the tailcap, so there is less risk of movement or contact separation. The full-sized 18650 power cell itself will provide for 65 minutes of continual runtime on a single charge. The REIN 3.0 is also capable of running on two CR123 batteries, although users can expect diminished output doing so.

The REIN 3.0 employs the same unique tailcap design as its predecessor which includes; the segmented four-way slotted base, the push button/remote switch module (which includes a fixed cable to the rail-mounted switch), and the retaining ring. This design allows for the ON/OFF push button to be independently operated from the rail-mounted remote switch. It also allows for  redundancy if one were to go down. Additionally, the user can remove the switch module and adjust the cable output to any of the four slot positions from the 2.0 body that best suits not only the user’s needs, but weapon configuration as well.

Affixed to the switch module, the rail-mounted push button/remote switch includes several features. Primarily, the remote switch has a momentary ON/OFF pressure switch, as well as a separate continual ON/OFF switch with an audible/tactile feel. The 3.0 switch also includes a slightly raised ridgeline around two-thirds of each button to prevent inadvertent actioning of the light. The removable sides of the switch module are similar to the 2.0, and channeled to allow for the cable to be run along either sides, as well as a midway “early out” port that allow the user to maximize cable management.

The REIN 3.0 is available in Tan (featured), Black, Clear Anodized, Flat Dark Earth, and OD Green. It also includes a charging unit for the 18650 battery that comes with a UBS power cable.

Product Evaluation Scores:

• Cost – Good (4/5): With its list price of $399.99, the REIN 3.0 represents the leading efforts by Cloud Defensive to provide a 1,250 lumen product to the weapon light industry, and a continued advancement in the original REIN design. It incorporates many of the design features and functions that are long held as the “gold standard” for such accessories and is backwards compatible to previous versions. The materials and tail switch technology, combined with the included fully-potted rail switch (that many other companies sell separate), translate to the REIN 3.0 being at a good price point within the market. In comparison:
  • The original REIN (no longer offered by Cloud Defensive): $279.99 w/included rail switch @1,400 lumen
  • The REIN 2.0 (being phased out by Cloud Defensive): $379.99 w/included rail switch @1,100 lumen
  • The Surefire 600U Scout Light, w/SR07 rail switch (sold separately): $481 @1,000 lumen
  • The Modlite PLHv2-18650, w/Surefire Tailcap (sold separately), and Modlite rail switch (also sold separately): $443 @1,350 lumen
  • The Streamlight Protac Rail Mount HL-X Long Gun Light: $129.99 w/included rail switch @1,000 lumen
• Comfort – Good (4/5): The 3.0 threw a white-toned 1,250 lumens that was notably brighter than the 2.0, but not as “warm” in tone as the original REIN. The 3.0’s emissivity did flood a small residential room, with the increased light output having little/nowhere to go aside from wall-to-wall. Hallways were an improvement in giving the workable light a direction to go away from the end-user, thus was not blinding in the enclosed environment. The 3.0 excelled more in open environments whereby the light could punch through the distance and any barriers clearly. In contrast to the REIN, the 3.0 did throw a brighter, whiter light that some end users may find preferable over the warmer tone. However, the result between the REIN, and the 2.0 and 3.0 was the latter two had a somewhat greater intensity on the eyes in dark environments, but all three still illuminated the space or target(s) at a greater distance—with the 3.0 providing the most useable light at the furthest distance. The rail-mount switch also had a comfortable tactile delineation between the buttons for the momentary ON/OFF pad, and the continual ON/OFF pad that was easily recognized without looking. Users should note installation of the 3.0 rail-mount switch was a little difficult because the cable linking the rail switch to the tail switch is thicker and somewhat stiffer than other brands, but by utilizing the early out or full cable channel—a comfortable medium was found. The tail switch of the 3.0 is like the original REIN design in that it combined the momentary ON/OFF halfway down, and then the continual ON/OFF audible/tangible click at the bottom that was easily manipulated in conjunction with, or as a backup to, the rail-mount switch. However, the use of the Cloud Defensive’s picatinny rail mount put the weapon light exclusively at a direct 3 or 9 o’clock position which could prove a reach for some users to operate the tailcap switch individually. Aftermarket rail mounts (that adhere to the Surefire Light pattern) are available (and were utilized for the field portion of evaluation) that can place the REIN 3.0 in a more comfortable position closer to the rail, but are sold separately. Cloud Defensive also offers a Torrent rail mount (also sold separately). One minor aspect from a comfort view was that the 3.0 was like other REINs, in that it necessitated multiple different tools to fully attach (the switch, body, and rail mount all have different bolts), none of which were included with the product. This made in-field adjustment or attach/removal a minor (but notable) inconvenience.
• Durability – Average (3/5): From a durability aspect, the REIN 3.0 was made from the same 6061-T6 aluminum as the original REIN. And with Cloud Defensive’s lifetime warrantee, the 3.0 had an overall appropriate (or average) level of strength to resist impact and abrasion (also reflected in its ANSI/PLATO FL-1 shock testing and IPX8 waterproofing). Cloud Defensive owner Sean McCauley stated they selected the type of material for the REIN 3.0 over 7075 aluminum saying “Due to poor thermal transfer qualities inherent in the denser metals (such as 7075 aluminum); the more dense materials, the more brittle it becomes“. Thus the 6061 aluminum was the more suitable material, and one also found in other market alternatives. The weakest point of the REIN 3.0 design itself was the 3mm-thick sacrificial emitter lens; that should it become damaged, can’t be replaced without replacing the complete front light element (unlike the OWL whereby the end-user could replace the lens if it became damaged). The REIN 3.0 unit was dropped from a height of approximately 6’ onto raw concrete six times. The objective was to evaluate the 3.0 against impacts it may encounter in the field (such as to the bezel, the tailcap, and the rail switch). When dropped, the bezel of the REIN 3.0’s light head (being the larger center of mass) took three of the of the six impacts against the concrete, yet yielded only minimal surface marring—none of which penetrated the lower layers of the metal. The only notable impact to the 3.0 was, when dropped directly on the tailswitch in one instance, the battery jack shifted inside the 3.0s body and resulted in a loss of connection. After identifying the fault, the battery jack was tightened and full functionality was attained. Despite efforts to recreate this effect, the jack did not shift further during other impacts. Cloud Defensive maintains that once properly seated, the battery jack should not shift further. Additionally, it was mounted and fired next to a Surefire Warcomp with and without the Warden to evaluate how the WML took the concussion and recoil. Aside from carbon marring to the FDE exterior closest to the bare brake (a process that would most likely build over time), no other detrimental effects were noted. The switch module itself was made from a proprietary, fully potted  glass-filled nylon and epoxy blend that made the overall switch body resistant to impact. It should be noted that the rail switch design itself between the original REIN and the 2.0/3.0 was modified (with slightly slimmer side segments). Research showed this design change (combined with improper mounting by the end-user) occasionally resulted in some individuals damaging the sides of the switch mount by overtightening (the recommend spec torque is 8lb.), or using improper tools that resulted in the rail switch hardware (specifically the nut) to dig into the polymer sides and become warped (or “bowed”)—thus allowing the switch to easily pop off the rail. Increasing the thickness of the sides, or providing aluminum side bars would allative the issues for those who may want that added level of security and would be a suggested point of improvement to Cloud Defensive for future designs.
• Functionality – Good (4/5): Functionally, the REIN 3.0 offered an improvement in terms of emissivity over its predecessor, based on changes to the LED emitter and the increase in lumen output. This design change, while higher in lumen and candela over the original REIN or its 2.0 predecessor, allowed the light wavelength to penetrate ambient photonic barriers (lights at/between/behind the target) and interference (smoke/fog/debris) to a greater distance and better effect. However, this increase did come at a cost of greater consumption to the power supply, with a fully charged 18650 battery in the REIN 3.0  lasting approximately 60 minutes, as opposed to the REIN 2.0’s 130 minutes using the same 18650. The backwards compatibility of the REIN 3.0 (sans light head) was an option of benefit should end-user have an older version and need to swap parts (such as the tail switch if moving the 3.0 light head to the 2.0 body) in the event one suffers from some type of damage or failure. The dual-use of power supply for CR123 batteries did offer some alternative use should a charger not be available and the 18650 die, however significant decrease in light output was noted with reduction in brightness and distance of usable light observed. Other aspects of the 3.0 were similar to other market options, such as in-line mounting with a rear-facing pressure switch, and the rail-mounted control switch. The streamline emitter head of the 3.0 was like that of the REIN 2.0, and kept a reduced profile to avoid unnecessary bulk. A notable aspect to the 3.0 was that the central illumination point was brighter and as condensed than the 2.0, but the radius of diffused light around it had a definitive boundary/hard line. The light emission itself didn’t simply spill outward in all directions (as opposed to the performance of a Surefire that flood the area). This translated to all the available light being directional, only illuminating the desired subject area while still pushing through any opposing light barriers, while anything on the periphery wasn’t (this was borne out in the window tint, headlight, and high-beam tests). Meanwhile, from a completely dead battery, the 18650 battery took approximately six hours to fully charge. The ability to adjust the cable output, both on the tail cap and on the rail switch, translated to a very clean and adjustable cable management with no excess, and no need for handguard bands. This brought up perhaps the only limitation of the REIN 3.0—the rail switch itself. The rail switch was ideal for full-length rails, but on shorter rifles, SBRs, or AR pistol-length rails the sheer size of the rail switch (and associated housing) took up a large amount of real estate. This became more problematic if/when using a laser/IR device (none of which the REIN 3.0 is compatible with) on such shorter length rifles. End-users will need to consider this when thinking about their setups as Cloud does not offer any alternatives to their switch design. One suggestion for Cloud Defensive to consider would be the development of a dual-lead switch for integration of more common light and laser/IR function, or to offer an optional tail button for the REIN that would only be for the tail switch itself, and eliminate the cable-attached rail switch so users could then mount the necessary micro switches for their laser/IR device. Some users prefer that style, and the current design of the REIN 3.0 necessitates the use of the rail switch. By offering that alternative it would allow for users to further match their chosen WML to their needs and preferences. It should be noted that the retention ring for the rear switch module of the REIN 3.0 did not share the same threading pitch as the original REIN, and thus was another element of the 3.0 that was not cross-compatible to that specific pre-existing version. Per the Cloud FAQ page, the switch module of the 3.0 (specifically the spring) was another element of the 3.0 that was not downward compatible due to the increased demand of the emitter on the battery (Cloud does have stated solutions listed on its FAQ page to get around this issue).
• Weight – Good (4/5): Weighing in at 6.91 ounces (to include 18650 battery and rail switch) the REIN 3.0 was not that dissimilar to its predecessor the REIN 2.0 (7.25 ounces) in design nor materials. And while the 3.0 does provide 1,250 lumens at start, the 2.0 provided slightly less at 1,100 lumens. The major difference being battery longevity (covered above) using the same power source. In the case of the REIN 3.0 its weight was negligibly noticeable, but neither distracting nor pulled on the front end of the rifle during recoil impulse. Movement in transitioning the rifle between targets was also not unbalancing. In contrast, the original REIN (8.54 ounces providing 1400 lumens) was the only alternative weapon light that weighted more than the REIN 3.0. The Surefire 600U Scout Light (4.8 ounces), the Modlite PLHv2-18650 (5.03 ounces), and the Streamlight Protac Rail Mount HL-X Long Gun Light (6.09 ounces) weighed in less than the REIN 3.0.  Yet the Surefire and Modlite alternatives did not come with an included rail mount, and showed that while the REIN does offer greater light output, it does so at a slightly heavier weight.

Overall Rating – Above Average (19/25)

Product Link: https://www.clouddefensive.com/product/rein-3-0/

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.

Nestled back in the upper potions of the Pacific Northwest, lies one of the more recognizable tactical and EDC belt makers on the market. Chris Calvert from Snake Eater Tactical (SET) has been producing some of the finest mission-driven belts for years. His recently upgraded SET War Belt offers one of the most secure, stable, and comfortable weapons/accessory platform available.

The SET War Belt is a custom-cut belt that comprises a three-part system; it includes an inner belt, mid-belt, and outer belt.

• 1^st Belt (Inner Belt) – This belt is cut from a single layer of 16oz. Hypalon, then stitched with 1.5” wide (female) hook-and-loop strip along the entire outer-facing side. This inner belt is intended to be worn through the beltloops, and has a thumb loop on one end to help tighten it while you use the hook-and-loop (male) belt-keeper on the other to hold the overall belt in place. The Hypalon material facing the body offers a tremendous grip against fabric.

• 2^nd Belt (Mid-Belt) – The second belt is the larger, padded portion to the SET War Belt and consists of ¼” closed-foam, cell padding with a heavy-duty mesh covering for ventilation, buoyancy, and drying. The pad has one full length of 1.5” (male) hook-and-loop on one side, and 1.5” (female) hook-and-loop on the other. Reinforced stitching is added in a diamondback pattern along the length of the pad. The premise being that the two-mating hook-and-loop panels on the 1^st and 2^nd belt join to form the base of the system and offer a large area of padding.

• 3^rd Belt (Outer Belt) – The outer belt is where all the work gets done. It consists of an AustriAlpin D-Ring Cobra Buckle and a 2” channel for connecting carabiners, with the belt itself made from two layers of 1.75” Type 13 parachute webbing (with a tensile strength of 7,000 pounds). On the back is 1” (male) hook-and-loop material, stitched in 2.5” increments, resulting in a MOLLE-compatible pattern that allows the user to mount gear without interfering with the hook-and-loop integration.

Also provided for review were two Burro magazine pouches (two for pistol, and one for rifle). Each Burro is flared at the opening, made of an elastic material on the exterior, and has Hypalon lining on the inside and back of the exterior to give it positive retention. The Burro can expand to accommodate any single/double stacked magazine, or .223 rifle magazine (.308 Burro’s coming soon). Inside each Burro is a curved piece of kydex that aids in indexing the magazines.

Lastly, a nylon dump pouch was provided that uses the same mesh material as the mid-belt. It provides maximum drainage and drawstrings for carrying capacity that can be used to hold any number of range items (up to five AR magazines, brass, papers, pasters, flowers, etc.). The dump pouch features a strip of Type 13 material down the middle that gives the pouch an easy-access structure from the top.

The SET War Belt and Burro pouches come in six different colors; Ranger Green (featured), two variants of A-TACS, Black, Coyote Brown, and Multicam. Sizing instructions for the custom belt cut are provided on the website.

Product Evaluation Scores:

• Cost – Good (4/5): At $183.00 for the SET War Belt, $25-$28 per Burro, and $45 for the dump pouch, the cost of the system reflects the high-quality craftsmanship and materials used. Between the nylon, Hypalon, and Cobra buckle there are a lot of unique and quality materials at play that are seldom offered elsewhere. In comparison to the market, the cost of the belt and pouches are equally comparable to other American custom manufacturers who emphasize direct, hands-on manufacturing over industrial or overseas mass-production means.
• Comfort – Excellent (5/5): The flexibility of the overall belt, combined with the width of the mid-belt padding makes for an extremely comfortable system. The draw from the Burro is smooth, and the kydex makes for positive retention regardless of magazine type. Re-inserting magazines is easy and smooth thanks to the oversized flare at each opening.
• Durability – Excellent (5/5): It’s difficult to judge the long-term durability of the belt and components. With reinforced stitching, X-patterns, and bartack—the Type 13 belt and Cobra buckle are most likely to outlast all other the accessories, and will handle most heavy usage you throw at it. In Google searches some folks have tested the system on the range or in general use for over a year with no stated adverse effects. Snake Eater does offer separate purchase of the inner Hypalon or padded belt should those wear out.
• Functionality – Good (4/5): The functionality of the SET War Belt is without question as the MOLLE-compatible slots on the inside of the belt allow for full customization of any holster or accessory. You can even add a Burro on top of the dump pouch to save space on the belt, or for an additional magazine. The oversized mid-belt pad helps ensure that the body is not pinched against the belt when bending, or by other equipment. The three-layered system also is extremely rock solid and does not afford any movement in the belt or pouches itself. If you want to reconfigure the belt or add accessories, you do need to break the belt down. In truth, the only negative is more aesthetic as the sleeve-like Burros have a somewhat lackluster appearance, but this did not play a factor into evaluating them for function.
• Weight – Good (4/5): At 1.7 pounds overall, the three-part SET War Belt is very lightweight thanks in part to the overall materials, and this comes in under the weight of other notable quality belt manufacturers. Burros weigh 1-2 ounces each (depending on pistol or rifle) and the dump pouch weighs 4 ounces. Taken into context of ounces equal pounds, pounds equal pain and the SET War Belt is at less weight than most complete systems on the market so long-term wear of the system will not be as painful as others.

Overall Rating – Very Good (22/25)

Product Link: https://www.snakeeatertactical.com/product/set-war-belt-3-part-system-copy/

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.