High Ground Media, LLC

Designed as a grip for daily duty or shorter barreled rifles, the Ultralight Utility Compact Grip (ULCG) by MKMachining gives the individual a more ergonomic angle, anti-slip texture, and a utility storage compartment over other aftermarket grip alternatives.

The ULCG includes two grip textured version, a diamond texture (featured) or a randomized texture—each giving the tactile sensation of different surfaces for positive control. Both are made from a Nylon 11 material (not to be confused with the Nylon 12 used in the VCG line) using a multi-jet fusion 3D printing process.

The ULCG offers a near-vertical 10.4-degree cant, and has a 1.25” width with an anti-slip lower ledge. The diamond texture (featured) to the palm swell are ideal for combat shooters and help ensure positive control regardless of situation. 

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
• Photo of an AR style grip we manufacture for another company: https://www.instagram.com/p/Cm5IXoErQRs/?hl=en

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

Product Evaluation Scores:

• Cost – Average (3/5): At $39.95 the Ultralight Utility Compact Grip price point reflects MKMachining’s approach of blending the utility of SBR-stylized grips with that of its history in precision. Its design allots for larger hands to have a larger coverage/surface area, with a small storage space. Made from a rigid, 3D-printed Nylon 11 polymer material, the ULCG includes a more vertical angle that gives a more comfortable grip for shorter barreled rifles or AR pistols. Additionally, the material aspects that make the ULCG 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 ULCG is the more expensive—however it is (appropriately) also the only one 3D printed with stronger nylon material vice traditional mold compression using polymers.
• Comfort – Good (4/5): The comfort aspect of the ULCG came down to the grip’s overall increased width over the traditional A2 style, and its higher approach angle off the lower receiver. Over the course of 30 days, on both an SBR and an AR pistol, the diamond surface texture did have a more tactile feel in the palm, and higher beavertail/backstrap did yield a good level of comfort for end-users with larger hands (mostly men) high up on the grip. Although those with smaller hands (such as women) may find with the ULCG non-slip shelf more appropriate for their hand as a base support than their counterparts. There was no discernable edges or seams, and all surfaces were clearly smoothed down so excluding the storage door, the grip appeared as a singular piece. Elsewhere, because of the 10.4-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. The grip remained anchored correctly and the mounting hardware retained a secure hold.
• Durability – Average (3/5): The ULCG was made from a Nylon 11 material, which has slightly different properties than Nylon 12. Both are 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. The difference being Nylon 11 is a bio-based polymer product derived from Caster oil (making it a “green” earth-friendly plastic) that has more impact resistance and durability under extreme cold, whereas the 12 is petroleum-based and performs better at warmer temperatures. For the purposes of this review, the ULCG was dropped from shoulder height onto finished concrete ten times before being mounted to a rifle. It was also subjected to magazine strikes and contact with hard surfaces during stressor drills. The grip itself help up appropriately (or of average) as other grips with regular use, weapon manipulation, and field stressors. The surface of the ULCG did not significantly wear or deteriorate along contact areas or overall—with only minor surface marring noted due to contact to hard surfaces. The pressure to the locking tab on the bottom of the grip used to secure the storage drop-door remained consistent over time and usage, with no weakening of the tab itself nor failure in keeping the drop-door retained (though at times was difficult to manipulate and open).
• Functionality – Good (4/5): Simplistic in design; the function of the ULCG came down to 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)—especially on SBRs (or shorter style rifles/pistols) over time. The ULCG also provided a good alternative for those with larger hands that may find A2-style grips too narrow or more difficult to use. By steepening the angle of the ULCG 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. It also allowed the end-user to easily keep the elbows inward on the shorter rifle platforms as it lined up the wrist (and thus arm) directly behind the platform. The thumb rest groove in the ULCG was slightly deeper than that of the Magpul MOE or the B5 System’s P23 (two of the most common SBR grips found) and this gave a slightly more purchase point for the thumb and greater support for the hand. 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 storage compartment was not of enough size to store an oil bottle, but easily accommodated a spare bolt, cleaning squares, or other supplies.
• Weight – Excellent (5/5): At 1.58 ounces (or 45 grams, w/empty storage space and w/o mounting hardware) the Ultralight Utility Compact Grip was very light weight due to the use of the Nylon 11 material that comprise the grip’s overall design. 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 ULCG 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/ultralight-compact-grip-ulcg-2/#grip-texture

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.

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.

 

Built on a legacy of outdoor gear and accessories, the 2020 Tour is the newest version to one of the most popular lower lumbar waist packs offered by Mountainsmith. The 2020 Tour comes in varying sizes, to fit the individual’s needs on the trail, but all versions offer the beneficial features built on the pack’s 40+ year evolution that make it ideal for the many miles one will obviously travel with it.

Made from an overall 420D Oxford Nylon material, this weave blend gives the 2020 Tour the needed flexibility to be both durable as well as dynamic enough to meet the needs of the user. And while the Tour comes in several sizes, the most popular is the 11.5″ (L) x 10″ (H) x 5″ (W) variant with approximately 9L of overall storage space (featured).

Exterior

At the front is a four-point compression attachment system that is intended to hold fleece jackets, blankets, or other bulkier items. The top two points of the system are ABS plastic toggle buttons that allow for adjusting the 4” of shock cord on either side. This The idea being that the four-point compression attachment system can hold bulkier items against the front body of the Tour itself. On the front flap of the compression attachment system are four nylon bands (one in each corner) for attaching carabiner rings or other attachment items.

On the front of the 2020 Tour and just above the compression attachment system is a thick 10” YKK zipper that opens into a 12” (L) x 8” (H) accessory pouch with a key lanyard. The pull-tab to the YKK zipper itself includes a band of nylon with a rubberized endpoint for more tactile feel and secure pull.

On either side of the 2020 Tour is a mesh and elastic sleeve for up to 32oz. drinking bottles with an adjustable cinch band of shock cord on the top. The mesh material is ideal for drinking bottles to assist in the evaporation of excess/spilled moisture or other condensation.

Continuing from its points on the front and side are four adjustment straps (two per side) that adjust the tension and width of the 2020 Tour to the waist belt itself.

The waist belt consists of a 7” (L) YKK zippered pouch on the right side, and a 5.5” (L) mesh pocket on the left with an elastic band opening. Both pockets are large enough to accommodate plus-sized cellphones or other electronics and immediate-need items.

The interior of the waist belt consists of 1” open-cell foam padding with a mesh fabric for maximum breathability against the body. The waist belt material runs behind, and attaches to the 2020 Tour by, a semi-rigid and contoured closed-cell EVA pad that allows for FreeFlow air passage when against the body and improve air flow.

The waist belt secures with an ABS plastic slide-release buckle, and has 12” of adjustable length on either side to account for between 28” to 48” waistlines. When not in use, the waistband can be stowed behind the semi-rigid, contoured closed-cell pad.

On the backpanel of the 2020 Tour is a pass-through slot near the top for headphones or hydration tube, and two ABS plastic buckles for use with the optional shoulder strap (included) when carried in that desired function. Between the backpanel and semi-rigid and contoured closed-cell EVA pad for the waist belt is a 8.5” (L) stash pocket that can be used for storing a variety of flat items.

Along the top of the 2020 Tour is a thick 16” YKK zipper with similar nylon and rubberized endpoint as the front zipper. This zipper runs along the entire length of the top and both sides for maximum access into the main interior storage space. On either side of the zipper is a carrying handle that allows the 2020 Tour to be hand carried as a pouch or handbag when desired.

Interior

The main storage space for the 2020 Tour is divided into two 210D nylon sections thanks to a foam divider panel that runs the length of the interior. On the inner-facing side is a 11” pocket for a horizontal hydration bladder or electronics, with the pass-through slot at the top. This pocket also has an internal foam pad between the pocket and the bag’s exterior to prevent transfer of heat or moisture.

Oppositely, is a 11.5” (L) x 10” (H) x 3” (W) open storage space for a variety of items, while on the outward-facing side is a small 9” (L) zippered pouch.

The 2020 Tour is available in Black (featured), Rust Brown (featured), Moss Green, and Asphalt Grey.

Product Evaluation Scores:

• Cost – Good (4/5): At an MSRP of $79.95, the 2020 Tour is a continuation of Mountainsmith’s longstanding tradition of producing quality, light, and functional trail gear. The Tour uses nylon materials with a low denier rating that offers fair abrasion resistance while giving excellent flexibility. The Tour is also available in a Small (with 6L of storage for $74.95) and a Day (with 13L of storage for $89.95) configuration that allows the consumer to choose which is best for their needs. In contrast, other market alternatives include the Ripstop Nylon Waist Pack ($175) with 10L of storage by Filson, the Talon 6 ($75) with 6L of storage by Osprey, or the Nine Trails Waistpack ($119) with 8L of storage by Patagonia. This gives the 2020 Tour a good price value for its materials, design, and overall size variations to meet any demand on the trail.
• Comfort – Average (3/5): The 2020 Tour took a little adjusting to get a proper fit, but when properly sized to sit at the lower lumbar, just above the belt line, it was of an appropriate (or average) comfort on the trails. The waist belt proved to give comfortable support around the hips, and the ABS buckle felt secure regardless of the weight to the contents. Overtime however, the weight of the pack while worn on rough or more dynamic trails did pull and fatigue the hips to a notable degree. The larger YKK zippers moved very smoothly and the oversized pull tabs made grasping them easy and comfortable. Likewise, while worn in the shoulder bag configuration, the shoulder strap itself had good padding and made over-the-shoulder carry comfortable. The one notable negative aspect observed was that when carried by the handles in the handbag configuration, the nylon straps became uncomfortable if the bag was heavily loaded. A suggestion for improvement to Mountainsmith would be to make the handles thicker or more rounded (such as inserting a rubberized tube inside the handles) that would make the handles more contoured to fit in the hand.
• Durability – Average (3/5): From a durability aspect, the exterior of the 2020 Tour was made from a flexible 420D nylon blend that started to show signs of exterior wear after just a few hikes and abrasion against some granite trail rocks. This is likely normal, but the use of a higher denier nylon, such as 500D Cordura as commonly found in many tactical accessories, would make the material for more durable. A recommendation to Mountainsmith on a suitable “middle road” would be to reinforce the bottom of the 2020 Tour with a higher denier or rubberized material as that is what will experience the most abrasion. This would also have the added benefit of giving the bag some structure while still being flexible enough to fold flat. Otherwise reinforcement stitching; such as bartack, double-line, and X-pattern threading was noted throughout for added strength. Another notable suggestion to Mountainsmith would be to find a more robust slide-release buckle for the waist belt, as the current one (although remained secure while worn) felt frail.
• Functionality – Average (3/5): Functionally; while primary worn as a waist belt and when fully loaded, the 2020 Tour did sit comfortably around the waist due to its robust padding. But over time (several hours) and distance (5mi+) that weight (and the waist belt) of the 2020 Tour did fatigue the hips. It was observed that the weight of contents was somewhat extensive, it often caused the top of the 2020 Tour to sag and thereby further pull on the waist belt. The alternative was to utilize the shoulder strap for over-shoulder carry for light trail hikes, but then the weight pulled disproportionately to one side of the upper torso (i.e. via the shoulder). For the lightest work, the handle carry was the most comfortable over shorter distances, but even then the nylon handles did dig into the hands. On a number of occasions, while sitting, the 32oz. Nalgene water bottle did get pushed out of the mesh pocket and fall on the trail due to pressure applied by rocks or other objects up from the bottom. This was likely due to the cinch drawstring not being up high enough to tightly grip above the shoulder of the bottle and secure it. A 32oz. Nalgene water bottle did max out the circumference of the mesh pocket so it is likely a smaller sized bottle may resolve that issue. A positive note was the high-visibility color of the interior made it remarkably easy to identify even the smallest items when looking through the contents of the main storage compartment. The thick YKK zippers moved easily, quietly, and smoothly while the wide pull tabs made it very easy to hold. Some suggestions for Mountainsmith to consider for future designs would be the integration of hardware along the waist belt that would enable for the attachment of an optional shoulder harness to further (and evenly) distribute the weight across the shoulders and hips. Moreover, integrating a rubber tubing or some type of material into the carrying handles would give it some roundness to fit more comfortably inside the hand. Lastly, Mountainsmith may want to consider adding hook-and-loop material along one side of the internal divider, so as to allow for the attachment of various pouches, patches, or other accessories that would aid in further compartmentalization of contents, should the end user desire it so.
• Weight – Average (3/5): At an empty weight of just 28 ounces, the 2020 Tour with its 9L of storage space was very lightweight due to its flexible and thin nylon material. This afforded the waist pack very good breathability and support. Once items were added to the main storage compartment or two water bottle pockets, that weight then was distributed along the waist belt, shoulder strap, or handles based on its carry configuration. There was however, a finite amount of weight that could be added, as the 2020 Tour was only intended to hold a fixed volume of contents for a single day’s hike. In contrast, the Ripstop Nylon Waist Pack (17.6 ounces) with 10L of storage by Filson, the Talon 6 (11.8 ounces) with 6L of storage by Osprey, or the Nine Trails Waistpack (13.4 ounces) with 8L of storage by Patagonia illustrated how lightweight nylons are commonplace in these products, but with its added padding and hardware the 2020 Tour was of appropriate (or average) weight.

Overall Rating – Average (16/25)

Product Link: https://mountainsmith.com/2020-tour-lumbar.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.