Review Published: Viktos Taculus MX Chest Rig Review: Lightweight Tactical Gear

The Taculus MX Chest Rig by Viktos, part of a new Tactical gear line, offers a minimalist design and adaptability for extra pouches or accessories. It scored 19 out of 25 points, performing well in four of five categories assessed. For full review details and pictures, visit the link provided.

Review Published: Viktos Patrolux Multicam Pant: Review & Features

Recently released, the Patrolux Multicam (MC) Pant by Viktos is the company’s latest continuation of its popular Contractor tactical pant. Similarly, the Patrolux chassis is dominantly made from the same high-durability blend of 50% NyCo Multicam […]

Review Published: In-Depth Review of the Counteract Duffle by Viktos

Sometimes carrying your gear to the range can be problematic given everything you bring. For others, the tactical outward appearance of most range bags can also be less than ideal in a […]

Ultimate Comfort and Sound Safety with Noisefighter Pads

Sound mitigation is critical in shooting environments, but many ear protection options lack effective coverage and decibel reduction. Noisefighter gel ear pads provide enhanced protection and comfort by serving as direct replacements for existing ear pads, ensuring better sound insulation. For further details and images, more information is available.

Review Published – Onward Research Recce Rig: Comfort and Functionality Explored

Released in April 2023, the Recce Rig by newly established Onward Research provides for a simple design that many traditionalists, who prefer the lower profile of chest rigs over a plate carrier, will appreciate….more>>>

VIKTOS Counteract CCW Messenger Bag: EDC Utility Review

Designed by the folks over at VIKTOS, the Counteract CCW Messenger Bag is intended to blend the utility of Every Day Carry (EDC) for the armed citizen, with the low-profile exterior and function of […]

Review Posted: Magpul Utility Organizer: Keeping The Necessities Dry

The Utility Organizer by Magpul is part of the DAKA line, designed for organizing range cards and accessories. It offers moisture protection and easy access to essentials. Scoring 19 out of 25 points, it is praised for its affordability, comfort, functionality, and lightweight design, making it suitable for everyday use or in the field.

Review Published: XD Waterproof Boot by VIKTOS: A Comprehensive Evaluation

The XD Waterproof Boot, introduced by VIKTOS in 2024, enhances the Range Trainer design and improves upon the Johnny Combat footwear. With a rugged, waterproof construction that ensures breathability, the boot scored 18 out of 25 points for comfort, durability, and functionality, making it suitable for various environments.

Waterproof Storage: Magpul’s Takeout Bag Reviewed

The Takeout is sized as a general utility bag, and ensures moisture protection for those items to be readily available.

Review Posted: VIKTOS Operatus Camo Jacket: Comfort and Functionality

Introduced in 2024, the Operatus Camo Jacket by VIKTOS provides the outdoor enthusiasts with a moderately thick, insulated jacket to continue training on the ranges while still retaining immediate access to gear and magazines.

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Spartan Armor Triple Tap Target System: Push Your Training

Representing one of its most complex AR500 reactive targets, the Triple Tap by Spartan Armor Systems is designed to challenge both rifle and pistol shooters while pushing shooters to emphasize fundamentals on critical hit zones.

The Triple Tap is a three-way target system made to model a 2/3 scale IPSC silhouette target, with independent target paddles in three distinct hit zones. Made from the same lab-certified AR500 steel as the Spartan Armor protective plates, the Triple Tap comes with a head shot paddle (that rotates over and doubles as a hostage paddle), center mass paddle, and a gut shot paddle.

The Triple Tap is designed to be used in conjunction with a 46” angle iron measuring 1.5″x.25″ (sold separately or at any hardware store). While the target comes with pre-welded chokes on the rear of the target, they are also sold as part of a DIY builder’s package for cost savings.

When the Triple Tap is mounted on the throat (also sold separately), the Triple Tap has an enhanced forward angle that not only mitigates risk of ricochet, but angles spall downward to the ground and away from the shooter.

Sold separately, but best when used in conjunction with other Spartan Armor reactive targets, the Multi-Purpose Base (MPB) is designed to accommodate a variety of targets, be easily (dis)assembled, and compact enough to fit in any mid-sized trunk. While a majority of the MPB is made from 3/8” steel, the protector plate is made from AR500 and prevents errant shots from damaging the base. It also includes four 21” support legs that gives the Triple Tap a large base that prevents unnecessary movement.

The MPB has two slots for an associated angle iron; one slot for a vertical angle (best for reactive targets), and a second that gives a 22-degree cant (for dueling trees) and ensures paddle reset.

Triple Tap Target Specifications:

  • Target height: 19.5″
  • Target width: 12″
  • Center hole of target diameter: 4.5
  • Center hole reactive paddle diameter: 6″
  • Gut Shot target hole: 9″ wide
  • Hostage reactive paddle width: 5″

The Triple Tap comes unpainted, but can easily take any common spray or liquid paint.

Product Evaluation Scores:

  • CostGood (4/5): As of this writing, the individual costs are $293 for the Triple Tap, (that comes with a pre-welded Throat), and $115 for the MPB, all of which are necessary for the system to work effectively (although the MPB is not necessary if you have an externally sourced mounting base). Not included, but recommended, is the necessary angle iron from your local hardware store that averages about $10. Considering the sheer volume of AR500 steel that comprises the Triple Tap reactive target, the cost for all components is comparable to other systems. However, those other reactive targets are dominantly a one or two-paddle system (i.e. center mass and hostage/head) in conjunction with a silhouette-type target, and cost approximately $200. Given the added functionality of the Triple Tap’s third additional paddle, and robust throat that protects the actual mounting system, then the price is very well placed.
  • Comfort Average (3/5): Aside from being heavy and somewhat awkward during assembly, the Triple Tap was assembled easily in stages thus not putting the total weight of the system on the user to move/adjust into place. It should be noted, avoid painting the MPB and angle iron black, as the color enhances sunlight and thus heats up the steel to very uncomfortable levels if left in the sun all day. If you do paint it black, be prepared to use heavy gloves when handling.
  • Durability – Good (4/5): Amazingly durable. The included waiver documentation with the Triple Tap maintained liability for use was on the shooter, and that the recommended distance to engage the AR500 steel target(s) was 100 yards (or projectiles traveling less than 3,000fps) to avoid damage to the reactive target. Since we don’t have a 100-yard rifle range for this type of training, we first shot the Triple Tap with .223 at 30 yards, and the 20 yard. Zero damage (aside from that done to the paint) was done to the reactive target, with no pock-marking, spall, surface cratering, or penetration observed.
  • Functionality Excellent (5/5): You would be hard pressed to find a singular reactive target system with the functionality of the Triple Tap. With a gut shot target, center mass target, and a head target that also doubles as an additional hostage target, the Triple Tap ensures a wide array of training can be done on specific target zones, or by employing specific platforms. The added angled design of the throat ensured any bullet fragments were angled down at the base of the target and away from the shooter. As a result, the MPB did take a little surface damage to the paint from bullet fragments, but nothing damaged the legs or base. The one improvement I would suggest to Spartan Armor would be to use hitch pins rather than the cotter pins to secure the MPB’s legs, this way users can keep them all together on the associated ring rather than four loose pins when not in use.
  • Weight Average (3/5): The Triple Tap system components themselves all weighed a significant amount given they were made from AR500 steel. The main silhouette target (with three paddles) weighed in at 31.2 pounds, the throat was 5.13 pounds, and the MPB (assembled) weighed 17.8 pounds—giving the complete Triple Tap reactive target system (excluding angle iron) a total weight of just over 50 pounds fully assembled. Since the volume of steel is fixed (meaning we can’t change the atomic weight of steel), then the overall weight is fairly average for all components involved.

Overall Rating – Above Average (19/25)

Product Link: https://www.spartanarmorsystems.com/ar500-shooting-targets/

IMG_2889I 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.

 

Best Features of the Specialist Covert Rifle Bag

The Specialist Covert Single Rifle Bag by Savior Equipment offered discreet protection and organized storage in a streamlined, low-visibility design oriented toward low-profile rifle transport. With reinforced stitching, structured padding, and compartmentalized storage, it securely carried a single firearm and mission-essential gear while remaining durable and easy to maneuver in urban or public environments.

The Specialist Covert is built from upgraded 600D polyester across both interior and exterior panels, featuring a mix of hexagonal rip-stop sections and synthetic rubberized accents to break up its visual signature and maintain a low-profile appearance. Reinforced stitching with bar-tack stress points strengthens key load-bearing areas like strap anchors and handles, while heavy-duty, lockable KAM zippers with extended pulls ensure smooth operation—even when gloved.

Exterior

At its front, the Specialist Covert incorporated a discreet storage layout designed to blend equipment carriage within a non-tactical appearance.

At the top of the forward-facing exterior is a triangular flat admin pocket with a 13” wide zippered opening that allows for storage of documents, data books, and small accessories without adding external bulk.

Below that is the primary exterior storage compartment that supports organized carriage of magazines, tools, and support equipment through two 9” wide mesh pockets (secured via zipper) and a laser-cut MOLLE field.

Behind the exterior storage compartment is a 24” elongated flat concealment pouch (secured via hook-and-loop) that is 8” wide and good for concealed handguns or other items.

Primary carry for the Specialist Covert was supported through reinforced, padded shoulder straps to resemble an every-day backpack. In addition, the rear of the case includes three 6” long padded handles to assist in moving the case as needed. Lockable zipper sliders were integrated into the primary firearm compartment extended along three sides, offering added security during staging or vehicle transport.

Interior

The Specialist Covert features a three-sided zipper that enables a full clamshell opening, allowing the case to lay flat for easier loading and staging. Inside, a semi-rigid polymer panel with hook-and-loop lining and laser-cut MOLLE pairs with four adjustable retention straps (two at 1.5” wide and two at 1” wide) and a barrel cap panel to securely immobilize the firearm during transport.

Internal padded edge panels along three sides maintain optic clearance, prevent pressure on mounted accessories, and guard the firearm against incidental impacts. This structured padding also helps the case retain its shape when partially loaded, preventing collapse and preserving a discreet external profile.

A removable hook-and-loop padded divider separates the weapon storage side from the support side, and is further secured by slide-release buckles.

Both sides of the interior are designed for covert, modular staging, allowing users to configure rifle placement and support gear to suit operational or range needs. This flexibility supports customized loadouts without compromising the bag’s low-profile intent, using compatible support pouches (not included).

The Specialist Covert Single Rifle Bag was available in multiple lengths and offered in subdued colorways including Dark FDE, OD Green, Grey, and Black.

Product Evaluation Scores:

  • Cost – Excellent (5/5): The Specialist Covert Single Rifle Case ($109.97–$124.97, depending on size) sits firmly in the mid-range price tier for discreet rifle transport—positioned above basic rifle sleeves ($40–$70) yet below premium drag bags and hard cases that often exceed $180–$300. Its pricing reflects upgraded 600D polyester construction, reinforced stitching, semi-rigid structural padding, and integrated covert storage features that go beyond simple firearm carriage. Unlike overt tactical rifle bags, its discreet design requires added internal structuring to maintain shape while minimizing external printing, increasing both material and manufacturing complexity. When balancing concealment capability with protective padding and modular staging, the cost aligns well with its dual role as a protective rifle case and low-profile equipment bag. Comparable alternatives include discreet rifle transport options such as the 5.11 Tactical Covert Rifle Case ($120–$150), Vertx Commuter/Long Walk rifle-capable platforms ($140–$200, depending on configuration), and Hazard 4 Grayman or Battleaxe series discreet rifle bags ($150–$220), all competing within the same concealment-focused market segment.
  • Comfort – Good (4/5): From a comfort standpoint, over the period of review the case was optimized for extended carry through use of its padded, adjustable backpack straps that distributed the overall weight evenly across both shoulders and reduced fatigue during movement to or on the range. When stowed, the straps still presented an unobtrusive appearance and remained well secured against the back of the case. The three reinforced soft grab handles on the backpanel provided a secure grab-and-go option when managing the case with heavier rifle loadouts while transitioning from vehicle to placement. The slim external profile and adjustable internal layout helped limit load shifting while in motion, improving stability and reducing user strain on the upper torso. Inside, retention straps and padded positioning panels kept weight consistent and prevented hard pressure points from forming against the back. The KAM zippers operated smoothly and did not bind around corners or cross feed.
  • Durability – Good (4/5): The durability of the Specialist Covert pointed to strong long-term use, driven primarily by reinforced construction at critical stress zones. Bar tack stitching and double-reinforced seams at strap anchors, handle mounts, and other load-bearing points helped prevent separation under sustained weight and repeated carry cycles. The upgraded 600D polyester shell provided solid abrasion resistance during vehicle transport and range handling, while maintaining tear strength and flexibility over time and against hard edges on. Weapons and accessories. Internally, padded structural panels—along with reinforced muzzle and stock contact zones—reduced concentrated wear at high-friction points. Lockable, heavy-duty KAM zipper hardware further minimized long-term failure risk. Collectively, these material choices and reinforcement features support an extended service life under consistent operational use.
  • Functionality – Average (3/5): The Specialist Covert was evaluated as a low-visibility rifle transport solution in urban and mixed public environments. Its design intent was clearly centered on concealment rather than rapid access, prioritizing secure movement and non-descript appearance over overt tactical features. The bag maintained an intentionally unassuming outward appearance as the mixed-fabric exterior read more as a conventional sports or travel bag rather than a weapons case, which proved effective for blending into public settings. When carried or staged upright, the case retained a neutral silhouette and did not draw undue attention. The primary rifle compartment was well padded and supported by adjustable internal retention straps that could be customized along a MOLLE field for any configuration as needed. During movement, these retention straps effectively immobilized the firearm, preventing rotation or internal shift. This reduced both impact risk and external printing—particularly important when navigating confined or crowded spaces. Structured edge padding added rigidity, and allowed the bag to hold its shape when set down and preventing collapse that could otherwise telegraph the contents. Extensive hook-and-loop fields on both the weapon side and support side allowed for flexible configuration across different rifle setups and accessory loads. Magazines, optics, and support equipment could be organized without creating visible bulges or deforming the bag’s exterior profile. Once configured, gear remained stable during transit. However, it was noted that while a rifle was loaded in the main compartment, internal pressure significantly limited entry/access into both the external triangular pocket and the concealed weapons pocket. These compartments are not conducive to rapid access and should be considered secure, low-profile storage rather than quick-retrieval spaces. This design choice appropriately (or on average) aligns with the bag’s role on the market as a covert transport role rather than any reactive use case. Lockable zippers provide an added layer of security during transit. Reinforced carry handles and integrated backpack straps offered multiple carry methods and remained comfortable under load. Importantly, these features did not compromise the bag’s low-visibility aesthetic, avoiding the overtly tactical cues common to rifle cases.
  • Weight – Good (4/5): From a weight standpoint, the Specialist Covert Single Rifle Case averaged lighter than most double-rifle platforms, typically falling in the ~4.5–6 lb. range (depending on selected length). That reduced base weight stemmed from its single-rifle capacity, though semi-rigid structural padding and reinforced materials added a modest mass that preserved protection and discreet shape. Compared to minimalist rifle sleeves (~2–3 lb.), the added weight was noticeable but functionally justified by improved durability, firearm immobilization, and reduced external printing. Design elements intended to mitigate fatigue were evident in use, such as the padded, adjustable backpack straps that distributed load evenly across both shoulders. The case itself kept a slim profile and balanced internal staging that minimized sway during movement. Structured padding along the back panel reduced pressure points, and the three reinforced grab handles helped balance as a rapid hand-carry alternative when transitioning between locations. For comparison, similarly positioned covert alternatives trend slightly heavier due to expanded storage or thicker chassis construction. The 5.11 Tactical Covert Rifle Case (~5.5–6.5 lb. depending on size), Vertx Commuter/Long Walk rifle-capable platforms (~4.0–5.2 lb.), and Hazard 4 Grayman or Battleaxe discreet rifle bags (between ~6.0–7.5 lb.). Against these peers, the Specialist Covert maintained a competitive weight profile while still delivering structured protection and concealment-focused features.

Overall Rating – Good (20/25)

Product Link: https://www.saviorequipment.com/collections/rifle-bags/products/specialist-covert-single-rifle-case

An animated character wearing tactical gear, headphones, and glasses, looking intently with a wooden background.

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.

Emdom Expandable Hanger Pouch: When Those Little Pouches Just Won’t Do

Designed as an additional pouch for under a plate carrier’s front carriage, the Expandable Hanger Pouch by Emdom USA provides for additional storage of critical necessities well within reach. With its slightly outward, semi-rigid domed design, the pouch’s accordion design can expand to accommodate a variety of different sized objects.

With an overall dimension of 10” (L) x 10” (H) x 3” (D) the pouch itself is made from genuine 1000D Cordura nylon and can expand, thanks to a zipper along three sides, an additional 2” in depth to the overall storage space when needed.

Exterior

At the front, the Expandable Hanger Pouch (EHP) is lined entirely along the outward, domed face with a 11” (L) x 5” (H) field of hook-and-loop (female) material for attaching identification, morale, or other patches. Under either side of the hook-and-loop field is an access slot (secured via hook-and-loop) for the semi-rigid sheet of removable High Density Polyethylene (HDPE). This HDPE sheet is what gives the EHP its domed structure and flexibility. The same HDPE pocket can also be used to insert flat objects like money, maps, or data cards.

The EHP attaches by a 9” (L) x 4” (H) dual-sided, hook-and-loop panel that can connect to any carrier that has a forward facing hook-and-loop (female) field (such as on the JPC 2.0), or with a hook-and-loop cummerbund (such as on the T3 Geronimo 2), or with a hook-and-loop plate riser (such as on the Grey Ghost Gear SMC).

Both the top and bottom of the EHP feature a four-slot MOLLE nylon band for anchoring accessories, shock cord, or other items. The top and bottom also feature ¼” closed-cell dense padding to aid in protecting and valuable contents inside.

The interior is accessed via a YKK zipper with dual shuttles at the top with nylon pull cords, sealed in shrink tubing, for maximum grip and security. The zipper material itself also features water resistant overlap to minimize potential saturation along the zipperline.

On the rear is a three-sided YKK zipper (again with nylon pull cord, sealed in shrink tubing) that contains the accordion expansion panel to expand the EHP by 2”. When expanded, the bottom accordion material also includes a single drainage grommet.

Interior

The interior of the EHP’s forward-facing side is again completely lined with hook-and-loop (female) for attaching pouches, administrative, or other organizational accessories with the corresponding hook-and-loop (male) material.

Oppositely, the interior of the EHP has two mesh pockets with an elastic opening for further storage and organization, and two nylon loops for retention of keys or clips.

The Expandable Hanger Pouch is available in Multicam (featured), Coyote, and SDU Grey. Other color options are available for pre-order.  

Product Evaluation Scores:

  • Cost – Average (3/5): At a listed price of $74.99 the Expandable Hanger Pouch has considerable size and makes good use of materials to provide additional storage space, and some measure of protection for any essential items inside. In contrast, other hanger-type pouches include Spiritus Systems SACK Pouch ($64.95), the Sporran Hanger Pouch ($59.95) by HRT, or the Multi-Mission Hanger ($50.00) by Haley Strategic. While all these alternatives are less in cost than the EHP, each is also slightly smaller and does not have the added HDPE reinforcement to protect the contents. As such, these features balance out with the added cost and translate to an appropriate (or average) cost for the EHP if the consumer is looking for something more than most designs on the current market.
  • Comfort – Average (3/5): When attached to a carrier, the EHP hung freely and added only a minor amount of weight to the front carrier (even when contents were added)—one that was minor in comparison to the overall weight of the carrier itself. The pouch did not inhibit or restrict movement during dynamic movements, with very little “flop” while running. There was a little difficulty in accessing the EHP’s interior when wearing a carrier with magazine pouches attached to the front, as the profile of the mag pouches would obstruct the top-opening zipper of the EHP. This is a design aspect that could be addressed by Emdom in later iterations of the pouch, by adopting a three-sided zipper opening or forward-facing zipper rather than the current single zipper at the top (where it is closest to the carrier). While the main zipper to access the interior felt smooth and the YKK shuttle did not bind, the expansion zipper did hang up at the corners where it had to take a 90-degree turn and was somewhat difficult to manipulate.
  • Durability – Excellent (5/5): Made dominantly from 1000D Cordura, the EHP was very durable to abrasion from the ground, equipment, or just the general donning/removal of the pouch to the carrier. Bartack, double-line, and X-pattern stitching all was used throughout the pouch and aided in its strength and longevity. The only notable aspect was the hook-and-loop material of the attaching flap to the carrier over time showed some wear just from the number of applications and removals (but this is common to this type of material). Thus, the EHP, much like many of Emdom’s products, held an excellent level of durability for the application intended.
  • Functionality – Good (4/5): The EHP offered a surprising volume of storage space considering its overall dimensions. This was especially useful in carrying odd-sized tools or other immediate-needed items. And while the interior’s elastic mesh pockets aided in organization of the contents, the hook-and-loop material on the interior offered the opportunity to further expand on that organization by adding additional pouches with similar backing. The ability of adding 2” of width along the bottom of the pouch helped expand the bottom of the interior to accommodate more bulkier items. However, this expansion was only along three sides (and smaller near the top), so there was a limit to the expansion. Another reason the EHP kept such a large storage volume was the HDPE backing material helped to keep the pouch’s overall structure semi-rigid and open for immediate access. One recommended aspect for improvement for Emdom would be to add a high-visibility color to the interior as the EHP is large enough it actually became difficult to see smaller items inside, and stuck down at the bottom.
  • Weight – Average (3/5): At just a menial 11 ounces (empty) the EHP was lightweight despite the choice of Emdom to use the heavier 1000D Cordura material. Although the weight of the pouch can increase rapidly when adding contents, there was a finite limit to what the pouch itself could hold. Yet even at max capacity the EHP’s supportive hook-and-loop panel under the front carrier held the pouch secure, and never sagged or slipped. And while the EHP is slightly larger than its competitors, its weight in comparison to the smaller market alternatives, like the Multi-Mission Hanger (2.4 ounces) illustrate just how the size, materials, and added HDPE all plays into its heavier and appropriate (or average) weight.

Overall Rating – Above Average (18/25)

Product Link: https://www.emdomusa.com/Emdom-Expandable-Hanger-Pouch-p/eu216.htm

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.