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Introduced in early 2018, the TLR-7 was the next evolution in the weapon mounted lights offered by Streamlight. Designed to fit with compatible conceal carry-sized handguns, the TLR-7 offers professional, competitive, and individual shooters with a steady source of light in an otherwise dark environment.

Compact in design, the TLR-7 was an improvement over the previous TRL-4 models in both appearance, size, and light output (measured as lumens). Its 6000 Series aircraft-grade aluminum housing ensures the light’s robust ability to withstand heavy usage. The switch housing is covered in a rubberized polymer to prevent impact shock. The TLR-7 features ambi-switch controls that allow the operator to select between momentary, ON/OFF, and strobe light control (if activated). The custom light optic produces 500 lumens (or 4,300 candela) in a narrow beam with peripheral illumination that reaches 131 meters before dispersal. In front of the optic, the TLR-7 glass is a Borofloat high temperature glass designed to have a high degree of heat and impact/abrasion resistance.

The TLR-7 is powered by a single CR123 lithium battery that provides the light an average 1.5 hours of continual runtime. The battery compartment is sealed via rubberized gasket to avoid penetration of moisture. A special design feature of the TLR-7 includes a “Safe ON/OFF” design built into the facecap of the lens that prevents accidental activation.

A series of different mounting keys are provided with the TRL-7 that provides platform compatibility across a wide variety of handgun platforms.

The TLR-7 has an overall measurement of 2.15” (L) x 1.18” (W) x 1.27” (H) and an operating range between -40 degrees Fahrenheit, to 120 degrees. It is sealed against moisture thanks to a rubber gasket and enclosed housing to provide waterproofing. It should be noted that the TLR-8 is the laser variant of the TLR-7, with the fame light functionality and “Safe ON/OFF” feature, but in the TLR-8 the laser is an optional red or green.

Product Evaluation Scores:

• Cost – Average (3/5): At an MSRP of $225.75 the price online can vary depending on retailer and availability of sales/coupons. At the time of this writing it is available for as little as $101.91 on third-party sites, but take care. Overseas counterfeits of weapon lights proliferate sites like Ebay and Amazon. For the MSRP, the TLR-7 is well below the cost of a Surefire X300 (the closest comparable competitor) and almost half the size.
• Comfort – Good (4/5): Very light. In comparison to other weapon lights that lead the industry, the TLR-7 is almost half the weight and was hardly noticeable on the end of the pistol. There is some debate in the Interwebs about the comfort of the ambi-switch, but it comes down to how you choose to index your support thumb. Those who index high, do not like how far they have to come down and in to toggle the pressure switch. For them, butterfly toggle switches like those on the TLR-1 or X300 are more comfortable because they come down slightly to already be on the switch in the up position. For others who index mid-low along the slide, they will only have to move their thumb less than an inch to be within reach of the TLR-7’s switch. I am the latter and did not denote any discomfort or difficulty in engaging the switch while firing or at the ready.
• Durability – Excellent (5/5): Amazingly durable. The course of fire selected for testing the TLR-7 involved 10 magazines, each with 10 rounds, at a 15-meter target. Between magazine changes the light was struck a number of times on the housing and lens cap with the ejecting magazine before a new one was loaded. The process repeated itself until all rounds were fired. At no point did the TLR-7 light flicker or fail in the firing process, nor drift from center mass. The testing did result in some minor (cosmetic) surface scratches, but nothing that would impact the functionality of the light.
• Functionality – Good (4/5): Aside from the traditional ON/OFF and momentary light functions, the TLR-7 has an optional strobe feature that comes from the factory disabled. It was a little tricky to get the rapid nine clicks of the control switch fast enough, then hold the 10^th to engage the strobe feature. But once engaged, the strobe easily functioned on the second press of the switch as designed. Disengaging the strobe feature was again little tricky, but after a few tries was successful. The TLR-7 also has a “Safe ON/OFF” feature that has a tangible/audible click at the detent that indicates it is “Safe”. In essence you are unscrewing the battery connection to the point (or detent) that the connection to the battery is seperated. It was a nice feature in application that clearly limited the risk of negligent light discharge when the weapon light is not in use.
• Weight – Good (4/5): Weighing a mere 2.4 ounces (with provided battery) the TLR-7 weighs about one ounce more than the Surefire XC1, but provided 200 more lumens. In comparison, the TLR-7 weighs half of a TLR-1 but also provided 200 more lumens. Thus, when considering the current market of available weaponlights, the TLR-7 was under the average weight of other legacy devices, but comparable to newer models. The weight did not pull the muzzle of the handgun down nor have a notable impact to target acquisition while firing.

Overall Rating – Good (20/25)

Product Link: https://www.streamlight.com/en/products/detail/index/tlr-7

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.

 

Released in mid-2018, the V730 is one of several in Pelican’s newest Vault series of hard cases. The V730 is specifically designed for full-sized tactical rifles, but can accommodate a variety of items to fit within it. The Vault series of cases continues to provide Pelican’s leading protective cases to consumers using its proven materials and design.

As with all Pelican cases, the V730 Tactical Rifle Case is made from Polypropylene to deliver a watertight, crushproof, and dustproof case that provides a significant amount of external protection. The V730 is considered the revision to the traditional Pelican iM3300 Storm rifle case, but includes a refresh design and new features specific for the consumer.

Exterior

With an overall exterior dimension of 47.12” (L) x 19.18” (H) x 6.90” (W), the V730’s exterior is comprised of Pelican’s traditional open-cell polymer construction for maximum strength and an impact resistant shell.

The V730 includes six newly redesigned push-button latches that secure the lid to the bottom. In addition, there are three heavy-duty, ergonomic and foldable handles on either end to aid in picking up.

Several protective features built into the V730 are its four stainless-steel padlock protectors, and its an automatic pressure equalization valve.

The V730 has two polyurethane wheels to aid in rolling and transport of the case and its fully packed weight. Three high-visibility panels on the front aid in easy identification of the opening side.

Interior

With an interior space of 44.00” (L) x 16.00” (H) x 6.25” (W), the V730 has an overall internal storage capacity of 2.55 ft³.

A one-piece, rubberized O-ring provides a watertight seal to the interior storage space.

The V730 comes with five layers of open-cell, one-piece foam that is customizable to meet storage needs.

Specifications:

• The Vault series comes with Pelican’s 1-year Guarantee of Excellence

The V730 Tactical Rifle Case comes in Black (featured), and Desert Tan.

Product Evaluation Scores:

• Cost – Good (4/5): At $189.95 the newer Vault series by Pelican is intended to be a more cost-effective option for consumers who want Pelican’s renown legacy in protective hard cases, but have shied away from the higher price tags to some of its previous product lines. For example, the V730’s direct Pelican comparison is the iM3300 long rifle case ($269.95) which has been around for years with a proven history professional, and in the field. Arguably there are any number of direct competitors to the V730, one competitor would include the iSeries 4719 Double rifle case by SKB ($379.99) or the Mil-Spec Double Long Rifle case by Plano ($249.99), yet both demonstrate a higher price point for the consumer and thus highlight the affordability of the Vault product line.
• Comfort – Good (4/5): While the 44” length of the V730 case was long enough to accommodate any full-sized rifle; the third, middle handle made transporting and maneuvering the case much easier than if it had only had two. The high-visibility panels made it easy to recognize the top and opening side – even in low light. The push-button latches were a notable improvement over more traditional C-type clamps, and provided an additional level of security against accidental opening (despite continually trying to force it open from the bottom of the latch). One difference between the Vault and Protector series was the absence of locking cleats on the exterior of the Vault, and that resulted in the case sliding off when stacked on top of other cases (the resolution was to use retention/cargo straps or stack vertically between other cases).
• Durability – Good (4/5): Made from Polyethylene a type of high-density plastic similar to high-density polyethylene, the principle material of the V730 (and indeed almost all of Pelican’s hard cases) was amazingly durable and resistant to shock. The open-cell foam inserts provided added protection to the equipment and firearms contained inside (more so if the user takes the time to cut specific patterns into the one-piece foam for a specific item), but the foam (by design) tore somewhat easily. The case was dragged over rocks, thrown into a truckbed a number of times, and left out in inclement weather (cold/rain) with no detrimental effect to the foam, stored contents (although some surface marring was noted), or moisture penetration.
• Functionality – Average (3/5): From a functional aspect, the V730 is similar to other Pelican hard cases – it being a protective box. Pelican has a large array of products for the consumer, military/LEOs, first responders and more to choose one that best fits their specific needs. And while the V730 had improved angles and new push-button latches, the Vault series was designed more for the consumer in mind, and not members of the military or first responders. Features like the rolling wheels and the pressurization valve were essential as part of the design for long-term use or carrying. The stainless-steel protectors and hinge pins likewise fill an essential aspect of design as it ensured forced entry (shy of cutting) wasn’t possible. As noted above, the lack of rigidity due to the absence of locking cleats was offset on the side by the reinforcement to the push-button latches, but the lid and base themselves lacked that added reinforcement. Thus, when opened, the lid had a little play in it given its one-piece design. This was less noticeable in the base, having for sides to draw on for structure. Since the V730 is intended as a long rifle case, there were fewer aftermarket applications that could expand the case’s functionality beyond its current application.
• Weight – Average (3/5): For its size and the volume of Polypropylene material, the V730 weighed 22.07 pounds with foam (17.30 pounds w/o foam). The advent of the third handle midway along the length of the case defiantly made moving it (loaded or empty) easy. In comparison to the market alternatives noted above, the SKB case weighed 21 pounds (with an interior storage dimension of 46” x 18” x 7.5”) and the Plano (being slightly larger) weighed 28 pounds (with an interior of 54” x 15” x 6.38”). Thus, the V730 had a weight appropriate (meaning not lighter nor heavier than competitors) to its materials and dimensions, and sacrificed nothing to the hard case’s protective qualities.

Overall Rating – Above Average (18/25)

Product Link: https://www.pelican.com/us/en/product/cases/tactical-rifle-case/vault/v730

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.

Released in 2020, and in conjunction with the Ops Core AMP Communication Headset, the Near Field Magnetic Induction (NFMI) earplugs allow the end-user to have stand-alone, in-ear hearing protection or provides additional protection with the AMP headset.

With its passive design, the Ops Core NFMI uses Comply foam inserts to seal the ear canal and prevent noise penetration. A pass-through canal with a coil inside allows negligible levels of ambient noise to enter and reduces the Noise Reduction Rating to 30 decibels. This also allows for near field magnetic induction to operate without the need for batteries, recharging, or any form of wired connection.

When used in conjunction with the NFMI setting on the AMP headset, the total level of noise reduction increases to a total of 34 decibels while still amplifying select noises. If the AMP were to suddenly lose power, the NFMI will continue to provide passive hearing protection.

	NFMI Earplugs Alone	NFMI w/AMP Headset	NFMI w/RAC Headset
Noise Reduction Rating (NRR)	30	34	32
Signal to Noise Reduction	38	41	39
High	38	41	41
Medium	35	39	36
Low	1	34	32

The Ops Core Near Field Magnetic Induction earplugs are available in only black, but comes with three Comply foam sized inserts for Slim, Standard, and Large sized ear canals for the end-user to find the most comfortable sizing.

Product Evaluation Scores:

• Cost – Good (4/5): At an MSRP of $199.95, the NFMI earplugs are the only in-ear plugs using the technology for wireless or zero battery use in noise cancellation. This technology in the Ops Core earplugs make them really only compatible with the AMP headset, which projects a sufficient magnetic field for activation. But without the AMP the NFMI still provides a level of passive hearing protection. The closest comparator to in-ear noise cancellation hearing protection would be the NoizeBarrier ($399) by OTTO Engineering, or the TEP-200 Tactical Earplug Kit ($201.00) by Peltor. Again, these alternatives provide similar hearing protection but still necessitate batteries or recharging. Other cheaper foam in-ear hearing protection exists, but also do not provide the protection value or cross compatibility with the AMP to amplify desired noises. Thus, as a stand-alone and in-ear plug, the NFMI offers a good level of technological function and protection to the consumer for the cost—but an excellent cost if used in conjunction with the AMP.
• Comfort – Good (4/5): From a comfort aspect, the Comply ear inserts worked much in the same aspect as more traditional foam inserts—necessitating squeeze/rolling to compress the material, then inserting them into the ear canal and allowing the foam to expand and fill the void. And given that the NFMI came with three different sized foam inserts, the end-user can find a comfortable sizing (or combination there in) that works best for them and their individual ear canals. To further the comfort opportunity of the NFMI, Ops Core offers three different “Short” variants (sold separately) on the Comply inserts to provide maximum comfort should the need arise. Regardless, the inserts remained solidly in place during dynamic movement and exercises and did not slip at any point.
• Durability – Average (3/5): The durability of the NFMI earplugs was very simplistic; between the polymer casing that houses the enabling NFMI coil, and the removable Comply foam inserts themselves—there wasn’t a lot in the product to risk damage and had more durability in its design than common Bluetooth earbuds. Indeed the foam inserts are most likely to need replacement first after repeated use, and are readily found on Ops Core’s website for an appropriate (or average) low cost. Indeed, loss of the earplugs themselves was more the risk, thus the NFMI came with a fixed lanyard (that can be removed if so desired) to wear around the neck and retained the ear plugs when not in use.
• Functionality – Average (3/5): Functionally, the NFMI earplugs required no ON/OFF switch to manipulate, no batteries to change, and no power cable to encumber the shooter. And aside from the standard foam earplugs, the use of the NFMIs was straightforward with the shooter using one hand to pull back the ear (thus opening the ear canal), and using the other hand to roll and insert the NFMI (with the “elbow” to the rear of the head). Independent usage gave appropriate (or average) passive sound mitigation comparable to other foam earplugs. But when used in conjunction with the AMP headset, pass-through sound was amplified to an excellent level even though there was double-layer protection. Perhaps the only negative functional aspect was the overall length of the retention lanyard. During range work and dynamic movement with the rifle, the lanyard on several occasions became trapped under gear or the sling. This resulted in snagging or occasionally pulling the NFMI earplug out and needed readjustment. A recommendation to Ops Core (or the consumer) would be to consider tying off or shortening the overall length of the lanyard.
• Weight – Excellent (5/5): Weighing in at a demure 0.211 ounces (or 6 grams) for the pair, the NFMI earplugs were very lightweight, with a majority of said weight attributed to the polymer housing and coil itself. The Comply inserts themselves were an open-foam cell material and extremely lightweight, so as wasn’t notable in the ear. Thus overall, the NFMIs were neither unbalancing, bulky, or fatiguing while worn. When worn in conjunction with the AMP, the NFMIs were not overly noticeable as the overall ear was supported by the enclosing ear cup. In contrast, the NoizeBarrier (19.57 ounces) by OTTO Engineering, or the TEP-200 Tactical Earplug Kit (10.6 ounces) by Peltor all illustrate the excellent light weight of the NFMI in comparison to both its passive and dual-use role with the AMP to provide excellent hearing protection.

Overall Rating – Above Average (19/25)

Product Link: https://shop.gentexcorp.com/ops-core-nfmi-earplugs/

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.