High Ground Media, LLC

Introduced in 2017, the Kinetic clothing line by Propper apparel is designed as the next evolution in tactical trousers for professional and civilian use.

The Kinetic pants represent a refreshed approach to popular features found in Propper’s traditional tactical trousers that gives the Kinetic a professional appearance with new materials. Constructed of a 6.5oz polyester ripstop (79% polyester / 21% canvas), the material is made from NEXStretch fabric and treated in Teflon to offer a large degree of abrasion and water resistance be it on the job, at the range, or just as an every-day wear.

At the waist, the Kinetic pants have seven 1.5” wide belt loops (four on the front, three on the back) with an elastic slide adjuster on both sides that adds for an extra 2” in the belt line to both sides. The belt line is secured via a simple pass-through plastic button. At the front-most belt loops is also a tab for sunglasses or badge hook. Inside the belt line, the Kinetic has a single bead of silicone that runs the entire length and acts as a shirt stopper. Inside the inseam, the crotch has a minimal gusset for added flexibility. The fly uses genuine YKK zipper and the shuttle comes with a logoized pull tab.

The “classic” cut of the Kinetic pants offer a wide pant-leg from hip to ankle that maximizes maneuverability. It also has the standard four-pocket layout at the waist (two pockets in the front, two hook-and-loop secured pockets in the back), with the front pockets re-enforced to accommodate clip-on items (such as a pocket knife or flashlight).

Each thigh has a 4” wide low-profile pocket that will fit most modern smartphones or a single rifle magazine. Additionally, each leg of the Kinetic features an internally divided cargo pocket (secured via hook-and-loop). Above each cargo pocket is a single pen pocket. The knee is reinforced with a slot on the interior for adding a knee pad to each leg.

The Kinetic comes in Black, Charcoal (featured), Coyote, Khaki, LAPD Navy, Olive, and Sherriff’s Brown (featured) and is sized between 28 to 56 waist, and 30 to 37 inseam.

Product Evaluation Scores:

• Cost – Average (3/5): Designed as the updated version to Propper’s traditional tacical trousers, the Kinetic has an MSRP of $54.99 and includes a thicker polyester blend (both in percentage and weight) that is impregnated with Teflon to be inexpensive, and provide moderate resistance to abrasion. Some comparable market alternatives would include 5.11’s CDCR Duty Cargo Pants ($52.49) or Stryke ($74.99), Vertx’s Phantom LT 2.0 ($58.95), or Tru-Spec’s 24-7 Pro Flex ($59.99). At its current list price, there are tactical trousers (such as by Crye) that far exceed the Kinetic in terms of cost, as well as some trousers (Condor) that are cheaper. As is, and among those competitors noted, the Kinetic is of median (or average) cost to the consumer for a light tactical pant.
• Comfort – Good (4/5): With a gusset in the crotch and inseam, the NEXStretch’s flexibility for more dynamic body movements (lunges and taking a knee) was greater than the HLX, and not restrictive in the upper thigh and inner groin to any notable degree. The overall material of the Kinetic felt heavier than the HLX pants, and the Kinetic felt more like the “classic” cut. The front pockets had an interior polyester lining on the bottom, and soft fleece on the top and were a nice improvement on comfort over other tactical trousers. The hook-and-loop-secured rear pockets felt nice and would kept the contents in place but the flaps could be easily opened. The inner lining of the low-profile pockets were also lined with fleece; however, it should be noted that the low-profile pocket will accommodate a rifle magazine or cell phone—but not a cell phone in a protective case.
• Durability – Good (4/5): The Kinetic had extensive bartack throughout the pants and reinforced stitching was noted at key stress points to include at the belt loops, and pockets. The machining process for this also left a lot of loose or errant threads along the belt line that had to be removed or burnt. The Teflon application of the material did keep some moisture off (poured water) thanks to its repellent properties, but the long-term application of this treatment could not be tested. It is likely the Teflon will keep some aspects of moisture, such as rain or mud, off for a time, but not if submerged. The YKK zipper slid easily and did not cross-thread. Elsewhere, the plastic threaded button that secures the belt line was of some concern, as it felt flimsy and with its stitching could easily pop off if a gun belt or other item were pressed/pulled against it. From a durability aspect, the only thing recommended to Propper for improvement would to make the belt line button metal and integrated into the material, similar to what is on the HLX. This would make it more duty applicable.
• Functionality – Good (4/5): The Kinetic had many of the more obvious tactical aspects that the HLX did not, specifically, the inclusion of cargo pockets. As noted, there were a number of lose threads in and around the belt loops that was purely aesthetic. Elsewhere, the cargo and rear pockets were secured via hook-and-loop, and were easily opened (something that if grappling could result in spillage of contents). The elastic sliders on the belt line added up to 2” of length to each side, and made it extremely comfortable. It is recommended that consumers consider ordering at, or one size below, their actual pant sizes as Propper seems to run a little on the plus side in measurement, and the elastic sliders accommodated for this. The NEXStretch gusset was wider on the Kinetic than the HLX’s gusset material, and the improvement over flexibility in the upper thigh and crotch was apparent. Minimal areas of recommended improvement on functionality for Propper would be to change out the belt line button for the reasons noted above in the durability section.
• Weight – Average (3/5): Coming in at 1.98 pounds, the Kinetic was very lightweight, something attributed to the polyester and Teflon blend of its materials that balanced abrasion resistance with its NEXStretch flexibility. In comparison, the 5.11’s CDCR Duty Cargo Pants (2 pounds) or Stryke (2 pounds), Vertx’s Phantom LT 2.0 (0.7 pounds), or Tru-Spec’s 24-7 Pro Flex (1.6 pounds) all demonstrate the diversity in weight of tactical trousers, and put the Kinetic’s weighted materials on average within the market.

Overall Rating – Above Average (18/25)

Product Link: https://www.propper.com/mens/pants/tactical-pants/propper-kinetic-pant-mens.html

I am reviewing this product as a courtesy to the manufacturer and via STL Shooting Enthusiasts, so that I can evaluate it and provide my honest feedback. I am not bound by any written, verbal, or implied contract to give positive reviews. All views are my own, and based off my personal experience with the product.

The views and opinions expressed on this website are solely those of the author. The views and opinions do not necessarily represent those of the administrative staff, and/or any/all contributors to this site.

 

The Urban Ruck by Trident Tactical/Technical (T3) gives the user a sleek, low-profile EDC backpack that can accommodate up to 12-hours’ worth of essentials. Its 500D Cordura material allows for an optimal balance between the pack’s 20” (H) x 12” (W) x 7” (D) overall dimension, while providing for the flexibility and durability necessary to daily life.

Exterior

At the front, the T3 Urban Ruck has a 9” (W) x 13” (H) large accessory compartment (secured via zipper) that allow the user to store items of varying size and need. The exterior of the accessory compartment has a smaller accessory pocket with a split field of nylon mesh (secured via zipper), and an additional patch-sized (female) hook-and-loop field for an identification, unit, or morale patch. At the top is a plastic carabiner D-ring to hang a water bottle or other item.

Both sides to the Urban Ruck feature two compression straps (four total), with sliding buckles to ensure the contents stay secured. Additionally, both sides feature a pocket (two total) for storing Nalgene bottles or other items. At the top and bottom to both sides are (female) slide-release buckles to allow the user to mount either belts or straps as necessary with an associated buckle. On the pack’s left side, forming the corner with the backpanel, a full-length zipper allows access into the main storage compartment behind an internal divider for up to a 13” laptop.

The backpanel to the Urban Ruck includes closed-cell foam padding across the back. Both shoulder straps are contoured and anchored at the top of the backpanel with extensive bartack stitching, with QD slide-release buckles at the bottom. The shoulder straps have an adjustable sternum strap with multiple nylon webbing loops to hang accessories.

The Urban Ruck has a knapsack design that secures over the top of the backpack to the front via two slide-release buckles. At the top is a small, zipper secured accessory pocket for sunglass case or other items.

The bottom of the Urban Ruck features the same foam padding as the backpanel.

Interior

The interior of the Urban Ruck is accessed via a single drawstring. The main storage compartment includes an internal divider, with a zipper-secured pouch on the interior of one side, and a sleeve pocket on the other. Above both compartments is another zipper-secured accessory pouch.

Available in Multicam Black (featured), Coyote, and Urban Grey (Coming Soon).

Product Evaluation Scores:

• Cost – Average (3/5): At a listed price of $220, the Urban Ruck has a significant amount of materials for its design, to include thick padding in its shoulder pads and backpanel. All of which work to give the pack a non-tactical appearance that could easily fill the role on the range, on a day hike, or commuting in your daily life. Other market comparisons would be from Tru-Spec’s Tour of Duty ($177 in Multicam Black), or Triple Aught Design’s FAST Pack (in Multicam Black $335). It should be noted however that in both of the competitors listed, their packs still lend towards a “tactical-not-tactical” appearance despite being marketed for everyday life. Additionally, source of manufacturing tends to lend itself to more inexpensive products, and those produced domestically trend to higher cost (which would help explain the price difference). If the user needs to maintain a low profile in an urban setting then the Urban Ruck is appropriately (or of average) priced.
• Comfort – Excellent (5/5): From a comfort aspect, the Urban Ruck offered a good deal of comfort given its thick padding in the shoulder straps and backpanel. Its soft shell provided good comfort and contoured to the back when worn, and the 500D Cordura material had sufficient flexibility to not give the pack any hard edges or angles. All the zippers functioned smoothly and did not bind, while the slide release buckles snapped/secured cleanly. Weather worn for a few hours or all day, the Urban Ruck was consistently comfortable.
• Durability – Excellent (5/5): The main 500D Cordura material offered a good amount of abrasion resistance to withstand general range work, and performed well for an EDC bag to daily life. Bartack and X-type stitching was noted anchoring the shoulder straps two points of contact into the backpanel, and at other key stress points to reinforce the Urban Ruck’s overall durability. Double line stitching also reinforced all YKK zippers and all of the paracord pull tabs appeared to be secured inside plastic end caps.
• Functionality – Good (4/5): Functionally the Urban Ruck is more reminiscent of a day pack, one with a tactical mindset to keep that low-profile for life in urban settings. The over-the-top closure flap completely covered the drawstring opening, though the slide-release buckles were still exposed. The exterior split field accessory pocket on the front did provide immediate access and visibility to its contents, but also to anyone else (in the city this could prove tempting to thieves). The Urban Ruck was able to comfortably carry several pairs of clothing and range accessories, and could easily be configured to any need necessary. One thing to bear in mind was items placed inside the Urban Ruck can get buried down inside the main storage compartment, as unlike backpacks that open on three sides, the Urban Ruck is top-down access only. One thing T3 may want to consider is changing the material in the interior of the main storage compartment to a high-visibility color rather than black. This would make searching the interior easier.
• Weight – Average (3/5): Coming in at 3.8 pounds for 25-30 Liters of storage space, the Urban Ruck was lightweight enough that wearing it for several hours (3+) did not become uncomfortable with a moderate amount of weight (books, food, clothes, etc.). There was a notable limit to weight that could be carried however, as heavier items (ammo or electronic equipment) pulled more on the pack over time due to its lack of an internal frame. This merely reinforced the design that the Urban Ruck is intended for daily and light/moderate use. In comparison, the Tour of Duty came in at 5 pounds for 37 Liters of storage, and the FAST pack was 2.04 pounds for 28 Liters of space. This would put the Urban Ruck appropriately (or at an average) sized for its weight and offering the user a good sized EDC pack.

Overall Rating – Good (20/25)

Product Link: https://www.t3gear.com/t3-urban-ruck/

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.

Using solid 6061 T6 aluminum, American Defense Manufacturing (ADM) offers six different mount styles for the popular Aimpoint PRO line of optics, to include a “straight” or cantilever  version. These two popular types of mounts offer PRO users a specific design based on their choice optic and unique preference.

Straight Mount

The M68/CompM2/Pro mount (AD 68 H) comes in two height-over-bore versions that each can accommodate optics at a (1) low, co-witness, or lower 1/3^rd co-witness, or at (2) an optional 2.33” height for use with night vision devices. A third option for the M68/CompM2/Pro mount allots for either of these mount version to include a stronger titanium lever.

The M68/CompM2/Pro mount is designed around a vertical two-part, split ring approach whereby the base of the mount uses a horizontal tab and pass-through double torque-screw to provide a solid connection that anchors the ring to the mount’s base. Similarly, the top of the ring also uses two horizontal torque-screws to further secure the optic.

On the base of the M68/CompM2/Pro mount is ADM’s patented Auto Lock™ Quick Disconnect throw lever (or optional titanium throw lever). The QD lever itself uses a push-button locking mechanism, cross-bolt, and adjustable nut that allows for the mount to fit both spec and out-of-spec rail systems.

Cantilever Mount

An alternative for the M68/CompM2/Pro mount is a cantilever (AD 68 C) version that includes a swept-forward design specific to mounting optics on AR-patterned rifles and managing limited rail space. This places Aimpoint optic forward over the mount, for a more appropriate eye-relief to the user when using other accessories, such as a magnifier.

Similar to the M68/CompM2/Pro mount, the cantilever version also uses the same base design with ADM’s patented Auto Lock™ Quick Disconnect throw lever (or optional titanium throw lever). The QD lever uses the same push-button locking mechanism, cross-bolt, and adjustable nut that allows for the mount to fit both spec and out-of-spec rail systems.

The M68/CompM2/Pro mount is available in Black (featured).

Product Evaluation Scores:

• Cost – Excellent (5/5): Depending on model and options selected, the M68/CompM2/Pro mount ($130) or the Cantilever ($155) are both made from the same 6061 T6 aluminum as other ADM mounts, and is a appropriate material for many quality mounts and other accessories. The mounts are also made via direct CNC machining that provides a clean surface, thus there is no seam or mold markings, and both include a locking QD throw lever to quickly attach/detach the mounts (and optic) to any MIL-STD-1913 rail. In contrast, similar mounts like the Leap/02 ($239) by Scalarworks, the Tactical Comp M2 Mount ($199) from LaRue Tactical, and the FAST Comp Series Mount ($186) represent some of the newer Aimpoint PRO mounts, with obviously much lower quality and inexpensive options also available. Thus for their price, in contrast to the materials and market, the M68/CompM2/Pro mount and cantilever versions are both of an excellent value for their cost.
• Comfort – Good (4/5): From a comfort aspect, the adjustability of the mount’s single QD throw lever allowed it to accommodate any picatinny-rail mount the optic was being fitted against. It also allowed the end-user to fine tune the sizing and finding a comfortable tension behind the QD Auto Lock’s spring that ensured a solid lock. This gave both PRO mounts a solid mount that had no excess movement in the overall optic. Otherwise, disassembly and reassembly of the mount components went smoothly, with screw threads lining up appropriately (though end-users need to take care not to overtighten the components or risk damage). Lastly, the variable height options for the standard PRO mount at time of purchase allotted the end-user to utilize a mount height appropriate to their individual needs with low/co-witness, and lower 1/3^rd options available. The reviewed co-witness mount appropriately placed the optic’s height.
• Durability – Good (4/5): Both Aimpoint PRO mounts were made of 6061 T6 aluminum  and finished in the same T3 mil-spec anodization as other ADM mounts which, over the course of two months and a number of iterations changing between and usage on a rifle, and transport—neither mount showed any significant signs of wear aside from minor surface marring or minor tool marks from adjusting/removing the optics (none of which penetrated into the sub-surface aluminum). Minor wear/fading was noted to the white surface markings (though was purely cosmetic). Moreover the locking mechanism and spring to the Auto Lock remained consistent once an appropriate size was identified, and continually retained tension.
• Functionality – Good (4/5): Functionally, where Both Aimpoint PRO mounts differed was in how the mount itself was postured over the rail. The Straight mount allotted for a direct-over-bore platform that the optic was easily attached to. This enabled the end-user to find the specific location along the rail by which was most comfortable, and offered the best eye relief in relation to either an AR pistol, SBR, or full-length rifle it was used on. In contrast, the cantilever mount design allowed the end-user to place the mount in the same position, but posture the optic far enough forward to allot for additional space on the rail for attaching magnifiers behind the PRO. Thus while it came down to end-user intent, both mounts offered a solid lock with evidence of excess movement in the optic regardless of platform and associated recoil. Otherwise, the Auto Lock mechanism provided a clear and tangible lock when the proper adjustment was made. For its solid design and performance, both the Pro mounts offered a good performance in function.
• Weight – Average (3/5): From a weight perspective, the evaluated Aimpoint PRO co-witness Standard mount and the Cantilever mount both came in at 3.8 ounces, with comparable weight being made from roughly the same amount of mass in aluminum and had the same QD locking mechanism. As such, neither was excessively heavy nor markedly unbalanced the firearm on which it was mounted. In contrast, the Leap/02 (2.45 ounces) by Scalarworks, the Tactical Comp M2 Mount (3.7 ounces) from LaRue Tactical, and the FAST Comp Series Mount (3.2 ounces) all demonstrate that the ADM Aimpoint Pro mounts are the heaviest (if by mere ounces) but an appropriate (or average) weight amid the current market competitors for PRO optics and reflect that more recent designs are likely finding new ways to cut down on overall mass.

Overall Rating – Good (20/25)

Product Link: https://www.admmfg.com/mounts?specs=79

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.