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.

As a minimalist chest rig with adaptability, the 10-Speed M4 Chest Rig by Blue Force Gear offers a high degree of positive magazine retention, with no excessive materials or weight. This is in large part to its efficient use of military-grade elastic and durable Cordura nylon.

Using an “H” style harness design, the 10-Speed M4 Chest Rig has fully adjustable shoulder and torso straps with ITW GhillieTEX quick-release side release buckles. On the back of the harness is a (female) hook-and-loop panel for associated patches or name tabs. The rear cross-section of shoulder straps is also designed as a drag harness to pull the individual if necessary.

On the main nylon platform there is an 18” (W) x 6” (H) map pocket secured via hook-and-loop (with two directional pull tabs), in front of which are four M4/AR-15 patterned magazine slots made from elastic material.

On each side is a field of MOLLE-compatible webbing that allow for the inclusion of additional 10-speed magazine carriers, aid pouches, or other accessories.

Above the nylon webbing are two Cordura loops (one each side) that allow for hooks or carabiner to be attached for added carrying capacity.

Specifications

• Magazine slots made from BFG military-grade elastic
• 500D Cordura
• 3×3 MOLLE-compatible nylon webbing

The 10-Speed M4 Chest Harness comes in five different colors; Multicam (featured), OD Green, Wolf Gray, Coyote, and Black. The 10-Speed also comes available for 308 magazines and MP7s.

Product Evaluation Scores:

• Cost – Average (3/5): At an MSRP of $89.95 for a minimalist chest rig, the Blue Force 10-Speed M4 Chest Rig is moderately priced within the current market. It is priced above some manufacturer’s versions of chest rigs, such as from SKD, 5.11, or HSGI that include either heavier material with lower quality nylon, or less material in the harness itself. Other chest rigs that are more expensive are frequently those with dual carbine/pistol functionality built into the design.
• Comfort – Good (4/5): With four fully-loaded carbine magazines, the 10-Speed chest rig was able to distribute the weight evenly across the shoulders. The adjustment straps feature an extensive length for full-size customization with/without body armor. Overall this made the 10-Speed chest rig very comfortable, and it didn’t move or slide during stressor drills (lunges and body twist). An added plus was the “H”-style shoulder harness with a “clean” design (no loops or straps) along the edging that eliminated any potential material that could irritate while wearing the chest rig for long durations.
• Durability – Good (4/5): The base layer and shoulder harness is comprised of 500D Cordura, which gives it a high level of nylon abrasion resistance—but is average for tactical products in the current market. The elastic material is stitched to form the magazine sleeves was robust, but is only as durable as the elastic bands within it (kind of like a lot of little rubber bands). While during the normal course of firing and stressor drills, some surface fraying was noted but not to a significant degree so as to damage the overall material. The ITW GhillieTEX quick-release side release buckles are of higher-than average quality considering they are of a high-durability polymer and minimize IR signature.
• Functionality – Good (4/5): For a minimalist carbine chest rig, the 10-Speed accomplishes that, and leaves the opportunity to expand the platform if desired. While the user has the ability to carry four loaded magazines, the added MOLLE on either side allows for added accessories or pockets. With no excessive materials (hydration loops, snaps, shock cord, etc.), the 10-Speed would make the ideal conceal/low-profile chest rig for those looking to wear it under a jacket or collared shirt. The only problematic issue was an added (female) hook-and-loop field on the inside of each elastic magazine carrier. While no accessories were provided with the chest rig, or sold separately to accompany a hook-and-loop field in this location, it did make holstering magazines a little difficult as the edges of the magazine and hook-and-loop often hung up on one another. Additionally, with the extensive length in each adjustment strap, it would be greatly beneficial if elastic retention cuffs were added behind the side-release buckles to help stow/secure excessive amounts of material. Otherwise, bartack and “X”-type reinforced stitching were noted in key stressor points, but the max weight-load of the designed drag handle was not tested during the review.
• Weight – Excellent (5/5): At 11.3 ounces (empty) the 10-Speed is amazingly light. The design and choice of using 500D Cordura for material kept the overall weight to a minimum. When properly adjusted and worn, the weight of the 10-Speed is hardly noticeable.

Overall Rating – Above Average (19/25)

Product Link: https://www.blueforcegear.com/ten-speed-m4-chest-rig.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.

Designed as a 72-hour, short mission bag, the 3-Day Hydration Backpack by T3 Gear provides extensive storage space, durable 500D Cordura, and features specifically to accommodate a hydration bladder for essential water.

Introduced in 2015, the 3-Day has an overall dimension of 20” (H) x 13” (W) x 8” (D), is slightly tapered at the top, and made with an outer layer of solution-dyed 500D Cordura nylon, while using minimal binding tape (to seal raw edges) where applicable. All genuine YKK zippers utilize nylon cordage for pull-tabs throughout the backpack.

Exterior

At the front, the 3-Day has a wide 15” (H)  x 11” (W) accessory storage pocket that is zipper-secured, and has over-molding fabric over the zipper to prevent moisture penetration along the enclosure. On the exterior of the accessory storage pocket are seven nylon bands (five at the top and two at the bottom) that are MOLLE compatible for attaching additional pouches or accessories.

Behind the accessory storage pocket is a zipper-secured, admin pocket with the same dimensions, but is an additional three inches deep for storage of bulkier items. Included in the admin pocket are; two envelope pockets, two zipper-secured pockets, a flap enclosure pocket using hook-and-loop, and five pen sleeves.

At the top of the pack is a nylon-folded carrying handle that is 1” wide, under which is a hook-and-loop flap over the pass-through port into the main storage compartment (to use for running comms cables or a hydration tube).

Both sides of the 3-Day include five nylon bands that are MOLLE compatible for attaching additional pouches or accessories. Additionally, two compression straps on each side utilize slide-release buckles to ensure the contents remain secure.

The backpanel to the 3-Day includes closed-cell foam padding across the entire side. Both shoulder straps are 3” wide, padded, contoured, and anchored at the top and bottom of the backpanel with extensive bartack stitching. The shoulder straps have an adjustable sternum strap with multiple nylon webbing loops and polymer D-rings to hang accessories. Additionally, a removable, padded waist strap (secured by a 2 ¼” slide release buckle) provides optional support if desired.

The bottom of the 3-Day includes two nylon bands that are MOLLE compatible for attaching additional pouches or accessories, as well as three drainage grommets.

Interior

The interior of the 3-Day has a three-sided, oversized, continual YKK zipper line that allows the front of the pack to fold open and grant the greatest level of access to the interior.

The interior includes an 11” wide nylon mesh accessory pocket (zipper secured) on the inside of the front interior. A 8” wide hydration pouch is located on the interior of the rear backpanel and includes three hook-and-loop retention bands for securing any sized hydration bladder.

The 3-Day Hydration Backpack is available in Ranger Green (featured), Multicam, and Black.

Product Evaluation Scores:

• Cost – Average (3/5): With its list price of $248.99, the 3-Day Hydration Backpack is a significantly sized, medium backpack made from genuine Cordura nylon and genuine YKK zippers. The backpack includes extensive MOLLE fields for attaching additional pouches or accessories to extend the storage capacity for the end-user. Market alternatives to the 3-Day include the X2 Pack ($289) by Eberlestock, the Three Day Plus Assault Pack ($285) from Tactical Tailor, and the Large Comm Pack ($258.08) by First Spear. Thus in comparison, the 3-Day Hydration Backpack is appropriately (or of average price) amid the market and its competitors.
• Comfort – Good (4/5): From a comfort aspect, the unstructured (meaning no internal/external frame) 3-Day was very comfortable on the rear torso, and the design took a great deal of effort to incorporate features intended to defray the weight of the contents carried. The complete backpanel itself is thickly padded with closed-cell foam, and stitched into segments to maximize articulation and pad items in the interior. Likewise, the 3” wide shoulder straps were fully contoured and had sufficient surface area to defray the load against the shoulder and upper torso, as well as provide maximum comfort. The removable waist strap did help to further alleviate the 3-Day’s load on the back by transferring some of it to the hips, however the padding was only on the sides and not under the buckles/hardware at the front that caused minor pinching against other belts or accessories. The genuine YKK zippers and other hardware functioned smoothly and without binding or cross-threading when taking the corner turns.
• Durability – Excellent (5/5): Throughout the 3-Day Backpack, there was extensive use of bartack/reverse stitching throughout, as well as double and X-pattern reinforcement at all key stress points. That included added durability to the shoulder straps, the pack’s pockets, and all MOLLE/PALS webbing. The 3-Day was designed for field use and the durability of its 500D Cordura and stitching helped ensure it handled a variety of items with varying dimensions, weight, hard corners, ammo, hydration bladder, and other gear easily.
• Functionality – Good (4/5): Functionally, the 3-Day did a very good job in doing as it was designed for and provided solid a 72-hour backpack for any survival, range, or professional situation. The large interior storage space allowed the end-user to fit a variety of bulky or odd-shaped items, while extensive MOLLE fields on the bag’s exterior allowed for individuals to attach additional storage pouches (sold separately) and expand on the overall function of the 3-Day Backpack. All YKK zippers have over-molded fabric that covered the zipper line, and prevented direct moisture saturation. The added ability to remove the waist strap allowed the 3-Day to convert into an easy hiking backpack or something more suitable for EDC. Perhaps one suggestion for improvement would be for T3 to consider making the bottom material thicker or more rigid (perhaps a polymer coating) and enable the backpack to sit evenly and without risk of saturation. As is, when fully loaded the 3-Day tended to roll over with the weight in the outward accessory pockets continually pulling it over.
• Weight – Average (3/5): Lastly, the 3-Day weighed in at 3.10 pounds (empty) and this was directly related to the volume of overall Cordura nylon involved in the design of the backpack, as well as the foam padding in the backpanel and shoulder straps, and hardware. This was in contrast to the X2 Pack (5 pounds) by Eberlestock, the Three Day Plus Assault Pack (3.10 pounds) from Tactical Tailor, and the Large Comm Pack (2.29 pounds) by First Spear. Thus the 3-Day Hydration Backpack is appropriately (or of average weight) placed within the market and current competitors for the materials involved.

Overall Rating – Above Average (19/25)

Product Link: https://www.t3gear.com/t3-3-day-hydration-backpack/

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.