High Ground Media, LLC

Crye is perhaps one of the most synonymous names in the tactical nylon industry, and among its longer-lasting product lines is the Jumpable Plate Carrier (JPC). The original JPC was designed in 2010 as a lightweight plate carrier that allowed the end-user to customize as desired. In 2015 the JPC was updated as a 2.0 version that no longer included the attached front magazine placard and other changes. But the JPC 2.0 has become one of the most sought carriers on the market for more than its functionality.

Designed as a minimalist, skeletonized plate carrier, the JPC 2.0 offers a platform made from mainly 500D Cordura nylon, on which the end-user can configure based on their individual mission and needs. At the front, the JPC 2.0 has a concealed admin pocket at the top (secured via hook-and-loop), and a 6″ (L) x 3″ (H) MOLLE-compatible field of hook-and-loop (female) material on the upper half for morale or identification patches. Two hidden vertical nylon loops on the front carrier support the attachment of slide-release (female) buckles (not included) that can support magazine placards or a detachable chest rig.

The bottom half of the front carrier features an extensive field of hook-and-loop (female) material for attaching the front cummerbund or attaching MOLLE or magazine placards. Behind this material is a hidden kangaroo pouch for flat items or documents.

The rear carrier includes a nylon drag handle at the top (rated to a 400 pounds load). The remaining area of the rear carrier then consists of MOLLE-compatible nylon bands with hook-and-loop (female) material along the webbing on the top half of the carrier. Both sides of the rear carrier also include #10 oversized YKK zippers that are compatible to any number of Crye or aftermarket packs, backpanels, or accessories (not included).

Both sides of the front and rear carrier also include two polymer rings (four total on front) and a slide adjustment buckle (two total on rear) for attaching side plate carriers (not included) or single-band cummerbunds.

The interior of both the front and rear carrier are 330D nylon and include an open-cell, spacer mesh fabric at the top for breathability. The sides of both carriers also include an elastic tweave fabric that stretches to accommodate a variety of plate dimensions and sizes.

The shoulder straps represent a blend of material; anchored to the front and rear carriers with Hypalon (a type of synthetic rubber) fabric, with hook-and-loop material that allots for adjusting the length of the shoulders. This fabric attaches to the EZ-Doff Handle that is run through the front of the shoulder straps and (when needed) will quickly disconnect the shoulder straps for access to the torso.

Both shoulder straps also include removable pads made from an elastic tweave fabric for breathability and moisture reduction, and secured via hook-and-loop.

The cummerbund is Crye’s AirLite Skeletal System that uses both nylon and a High Density Poly Ethylene (HDPE) layer to provide rigidity and maximum breathability. The cummerbund itself is anchored at the rear carrier via shock cordage, and secured to the front carrier via hook-and-loop (male) fields, with 2-step emergency doffing handles. Much like the front carrier, the front panels of the cummerbund also include a field of hook-and-loop (female) on which the end-user could attach associated magazine placards (sold separately).

The bottom of the front and rear plate carriers has a deep flap for securing plates inside via hook-and-loop, and the front flap includes a popper snap button for securing other Crye placard systems (sold separately).

Specifications:

• Sizing for the JPC 2.0 is based off plate dimensions:
  • Small……8.75” x 11.75”
  • Medium…9.5” x 12.5”
  • Large……10.50” x 13.25”
  • XLarge….11.25” x 14”

The JPC 2.0 is available in Ranger Green (featured), Coyote, Multicam, and Black, and is available between Small to XLarge sizes.

Product Evaluation Scores:

• Cost – Fair (2/5): Crye lists the JPC 2.0 as between $241.90 and $251.90 (color dependent), and few secondary distributors offer the JPC 2.0 at around $260 with some discounts around the usual holiday 15% events. The JPC 2.0 itself brings together a variety of materials to provide a lightweight and flexible plate carrier that gives the end-user the greatest flexibility to customize it as needed. In contrast, the Slickster ($168) by Ferro Concepts, the Spitfire Mk II ($239) from Direct Action, and the Tomahawk Low Vis Plate Carrier ($169) by T3 Gear all illustrate that materials and design influence price, and that the JPC is at a fair cost to consumers (bear in mind Crye also tailors its products to DoD MIL contracts so that will influence cost as well). However when compared to larger, more traditional plate carriers such as the Geronimo 2 ($490), and the Banshee Elite 2.0 ($309), or even more advanced carriers like the Strandhogg ($535) from First Spear or the PICO ($495.95) from TYR Tactical all show the full price spectrum of carriers in the current market when material and design are considered.
• Comfort – Good (4/5): From a comfort aspect, the JPC 2.0 had a fully adjustable cummerbund and shoulder straps that could be adjusted to ensure both the fit and the plates were appropriately positioned. The Hypalon material at the shoulder straps made the carrier very comfortable when articulating arms and allowed for more comfortable range of motion when compared to other more traditional designs. Elements like the hook-and-loop secured emergency doffing handles for the shoulder straps and cummerbund functioned appropriately (or of average use). The materials that made up the AirLite Skeletal System did provide a good level of structure to the cummerbund, and it did support side pockets without any sagging or while the carrier was being stored. The one element that is recommended to Crye for improvement would be the removable shoulder padding was thinner than other carriers, and as a result the weight of the plates and accessories were more readily apparent in the shoulders, neck, and upper torso—translating to fatigue over time. This can be mitigated through aftermarket shoulder pads, like SKD’s PIG BRIG Mk2 Shoulder Pad Set, but that is something Crye could improve with little additional cost to its core product. Another comfort aspect the consumer needs to bear in mind is the dimensions of the front hook-and-loop field for attaching placards. The D3CRX used for evaluations was slightly larger, and left some hook-and-loop (male) material sticking out and chafed exposed skin, whereas a Micro Fight Mk2 Chest Placard from Spiritus System would fit within its dimensions.
• Durability – Good (4/5): From a durability aspect the JPC 2.0 was made from a blend of 500/350 denier nylon, with HDPE elements for added support. The 500D Cordura along the exterior faces of the front and rear carrier ensured that there was good abrasion resistance while still giving ample flexibility in the overall material for dynamic movements or manipulation. The 330D interior still allotted for good strength in retaining plates inside the carrier, without being too abrasive on skin or exposed areas. Across the entire carrier extensive added reinforcement was noted, with bartack and X-pattern stitching at all key stress points, MOLLE fields, and along the cummerbund for added strength. The one area of concern from a durability aspect was the mesh fabric at the top of the interior to both front and back carriers, as some (specifically soldiers) had reported that the hook-and-loop (male) fabric on ACUs and other clothing would grip/tear at the mesh material, causing undue fraying. This issue was not experienced during evaluation as civilian attire was worn.
• Functionality – Excellent (5/5): Functionally, the JPC 2.0 was an excellent base platform plate carrier that allowed for interchangeability of various placards, MOLLE segments for attaching accessories, and features that enabled immediate access in the event of an injury. This put the overall purpose and function of the plate carrier up to the end-user to customize and determine (such as alternating it between low-vis or full tactical usage). But that said, the JPC 2.0 didn’t come with other elements commonly found in other carriers, such as rifle/pistol magazine pouches, and thus must be purchased separately. This is a duality that is reflected in the price of the base carrier as opposed to more complete setups. The other notable positive function was the AirLite Skeletal System, which provided more rigidity in the circumference and structure of the carrier and when attaching accessories. Perhaps the only recommendation for Crye to improve the JPC 2.0 would be to include two female slide buckles for the hidden nylon loops since that really is the primary function of the JPC 2.0 and it feels almost like an incomplete product without it. Including this could be done with minimal cost.
• Weight – Average (3/5): The JPC 2.0 evaluated (size XL) weighed in at 1.8 pounds (w/o plates) and owed its overall light weight to the fact that it was a base platform plate carrier, and didn’t have the other elements commonly associated to most designs (like magazine pouches). This left the end-user to customize and accessorize as needed and the weight would vary from there. The blend of mainly 330 and 500 denier Cordura remained lightweight, yet durable for a variety of purposes that minimized moisture saturation. In contrast, the Slickster (0.8 pounds) by Ferro Concepts, the Spitfire Mk II (1.5 pounds) from Direct Action, and the Tomahawk Low Vis Plate Carrier (2.0 pounds) by T3 Gear all illustrate that the JPC 2.0 is an appropriate (or average) weight for its materials and within the market.

Overall Rating – Above Average (18/25)

Product Link: At the time of this publication Crye is currently moving host services and its website is down, but the JPC 2.0 can be found at other second-hand retailers like Patriot Outfitters, OP Tactical, and more.

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 to give shooters a range belt that is adaptable and durable, the Gunnar™ Low-Profile Operator Belt by SENTRY offers a variety of configurations from competitive to professional use. When paired with SENTRY’s complete line of rifle, pistol, or medical pouches the results are a range belt for any environment.

 

Introduced in 2019, The SENTRY Gunnar™ belt is a two-part range belt that includes the inner and outer belt system (sold separately). Included in this review, but also sold separately, are two rifle magazine pouches, one pistol pouch, one shotgun pouch, and a tourniquet pouch. As with all SENTRY pouches, each is anchored to the Gunnar belt using Fight Light Malice Clips.

 

The Gunnar™ Low-Profile Operator Belt

Made from 1.75” high strength nylon webbing MIL-W4088 the Gunnar belt uses SENTRY’s high-strength laminate on the exterior to provide a MOLLE-style mounting system. This laminate in bartacked in 1” spacing and reinforced to provide maximum strength and durability. The belt uses an AustriAlpin Cobra™ Buckle and nylon belt to provide maximum security to the wearer. The interior of the Gunnar belt is lined with (female) hook-and-loop to match it to the corresponding Inner Belt.

 

The Gunnar™ Inner Belt

The Inner Belt is made in corresponding 1.75” high strength nylon webbing MIL-W17337 that doubles as an Every Day Carry belt. The inner belt is worn through the corresponding belt loops, and the cinch buckle with hook-and-loop provides easy adjustment. The outer side of the belt is lined with hook to marry up against the corresponding inner loop material of the Gunnar Belt. This gives the entire belt system a solid platform with no excessive movement.

 

SENTRY Magazine Pouches

Each SENTRY magazine pouch features multiple layers of fully laminated 1000D / 500D, high strength nylon for extended durability. They also include laser cut edging to prevent the material from fraying over time and with high use. SENTRY’s magazine pouch design eliminates seam tape giving you a slimmer profile on your battle belt or vest. On some variants, the exterior features SENTRY’s proprietary 1080-2 mounting system to provide a secure attachment point to stack or nest additional magazines pouches in any configuration. All magazine pouches feature shock cord retention with nylon pull-tabs; however, the stacked pistol and double rifle pouches use a fold-over flap secured via hook-and-loop.

 

SENTRY Tourniquet Pouch

There are three different kinds of tourniquet pouches (sold separately) offered by SENTRY. The first is a zippered tourniquet pouch that allows simple storage of a tourniquet and a few smaller medical items. The second is a Pop-Up tourniquet pouch (featured) that incorporates SENTRY’s innovative captured deployment system. By combining a hook and loop band with an internal Velcro strip it keeps the tourniquet presented on the Pop-Up tab. The third variant is Slim-Line tourniquet pouch which only fits a tourniquet.

 

Specifications:

• Small ……..29” – 34”
• Medium …34” – 39”
• Large ……..37” – 42”
• XLarge ……41” – 46”
• 2XLarge ….45” – 50”

The Gunnar™ Low-Profile Operator Belt comes in Coyote (featured), Black, and Multicam. SENTRY notes sizing instructions on its website that individuals should not use their pant size when ordering a belt, but rather directly measure their waist of off of an existing belt and use those numbers to order appropriately.

 

Product Evaluation Scores:

• Cost – Good (4/5): Featured in this review were a variety of SENTRY items necessary for a full range belt. The Gunnar Belt ($119.00), Inner Belt ($27.99), Single Pistol ($22.99), Single Rifle ($24.99), Shotgun ($36.99), and Pop-Up Tourniquet ($32.99) all are directly comparable to similar products from G-Code Holsters, but below market price for similar products from HSGI or Bravo Concealment. This places the SENTRY products in a good price for the current market available.
• Comfort – Average (3/5): The sizing of the Gunnar™ Low-Profile Operator Belt was very comfortable and fully adjustable at the Cobra Belt Buckle to accommodate the variety of configurations used. The MOLLE-style mounting system allowed for fully customized and comfortable arrangement of pouches and holster (not included). Unfortunately, the sizing of the inner belt ran a little on the small side, and not specifically to the length itself but the amount of available hook-and-loop to use it as an EDC belt. The waist measurement utilized during this review was for a 38” waist on a MEDIUM sized inner belt, which worked well as a stand-alone belt. But it was at the maximum length of available hook-and-loop for adjustment. If you were to add in an IWB or appendix holster, knife, or other accessory you’d exceed that limit and thus negate its ability as an EDC belt. It would be recommended to SENTRY that while keeping the sizing length, extend the hook-and-loop field of adjustment for the inner belt to accommodate it as a true EDC belt.
• Durability – Good (4/5): The SENTRY Gunnar™ belt and associated pouches were all made from the same nylon/nylon laminate 1000D / 500D material that, combined with the Cobra belt buckle, gave the total system its increased durability. Extensive bartack stitching throughout the length of the MOLLE-style webbing ensured each pouch was well secured. It was an added bonus that SENTRY cuts down on the volume of seam tape stitching as this helped to alleviate bulk, and some excess weight in the pouches. Perhaps the biggest detriment to the overall durability of the Gunnar™ belt will be the choice of MALICE clips and shock cordage, although even that will likely be more a long-term concern as the plastic ages, or the securing tab or elastic bands wear.
• Functionality – Average (3/5): Taking the total functionality of the Gunnar™ belt system (inner/outer belts and associated pouches, materials and hardware) the functionality of the system is average in comparison to other market alternatives. Other brands, such as from G-Code are comparable in design and cost, while others are offering basically the same product type at slightly above SENTRY’s price point. It was nice to see the option of functionally mounting pistol magazines horizontal or vertical as often many vendors stay within the standard vertical configuration. The low-profile aspect of the overall system was enjoyable as the market has moved away from legacy thick “battle belts” as consumers try to blend both tactical and practical applications. All pouches maintained positive control of the magazines, ammunition, or medical items despite multiple stressors (sprints and lunges). Because of how the MOLLE-style webbing is spaced, in conjunction to the width of the MALICE clips, there was a little wobble of the pouches once mounted on the belt, something I think SENTRY could eliminate by looking at newer mounting systems, such as First Spear’s 6/12 mounting system, that would improve the overall product. It would have been preferred if the outer Gunnar™ belt held more rigidity to it (by perhaps adding a polymer core or other method similar to other vendors) so as to maintain its support, but that would have added some additional weight to the overall belt.
• Weight – Good (4/5): In its evaluated configuration (Gunnar™ inner/outer belts, two rifle and one pistol magazine pouch, and a tourniquet pouch) the overall system weighed just an amazingly 1.8 pounds. This makes the Gunnar™ one of the lightest complete range belt systems on the current market thanks to its chosen design and weight-limiting nylon laminate. If SENTRY does revise the Gunnar™ system, then it could do so by addressing the noted items in comfort and functionality without sacrificing the belt’s lightweight aspect to a significant degree (and still keep it comparable to other market alternatives).

Overall Rating – Above Average (18/25)

Product Link: https://hexmagstore.com/tactical-gear/

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.

 

For anyone who has stood next to another shooter rocking a muzzle break, then you’ll know full well of the feeling as the concussive forces rock your bones and ears. In recent years manufacturer’s like Lantac USA have begun offering barrel shrouds in an effort to project the concussive forces forward of the shooter, rather than to the sides. This especially lessens the effect to fellow shooters to the left and right when in close quarters.

The Lantac Blast Mitigation Device (BMD) Gen 2 marks the second iteration of the company’s barrel shroud design, and a total change from its predecessor.

Much like its first design, the Gen 2 encloses the Lantac Dragon muzzle brake (a separate device often used to mitigate barrel rise and recoil). The BMD itself is constructed from 4140 Chrome-Moly Vanadium (CMV) metals, and finished in a Quench-Polish-Quench (QPQ) Nitride, all to give the brake an intense resistance to the temperature changes and force.

Mounting of the Gen 2 is done through the associated A3 Adaptive Collar (included) that itself is mounted to the barrel under the Lantac Dragon to ensure a secure fit. The Gen 2 then passes over the Dragon and locks to the A3 using a rotating locking ring similar to many suppressors.

The BMD Gen 2 itself uses a series of unique “ports” that align with the vertical ports of the Dragon, and allow those of the Dragon to maintain blast and gas mitigation, and reduce barrel rise even with the shroud on. Moreover, the Gen 2 also uses Lantac’s patented Disruptive Venting™ (two additional threaded ports) that further mitigate gasses and help to reduce muzzle flash.

The larger concentric opening and conical interior of the Gen 2 helps capture any excessive blast forces and project those forward to the shooter rather than to the sides. At the opening are specialized grooved teeth to help further disrupt any excessive gasses.

Manufacturer’s Notes: The Lantac BMD is only intended to work in conjunction with other Lantac Dragon muzzle breaks, and is not compatible with other Lantac suppressor-ready breaks, or the AK47 Dragon Brake. Installation or the supporting muzzle brake should be done using RED Locktite (supplied with brake). Failure to do so can result in personal injury or damage to the weapon.

Specifications:

• Length:………… 2.780”
• Body Diameter:…1.488”

Product Evaluation Scores:

• Cost – Fair (2/5): The BMD Gen 2 has a list price of $185 (without the necessitating Lantac Dragon muzzle brake) which accounts for the extensive time it has taken for the Gen 2 to come to market, the design that offers improved stability and function, as well as the overall dense 4140 CVM material that helps mitigate the heat. The previous generation of BMD ($175) was debuted at SHOT Show in 2015, and today many companies now offer similar muzzle shroud devices. This includes the Surefire Warden ($180), the Gemtec Blast Jacket ($195), the Ferfrans CRD with the associated brake ($169.99), Primary Weapons Systems CQB Compensator ($144.95), or the Oppressor ($114.95) by Strike Industries. Thus, the BMD Gen 2 and its redesign reflect a fair price point for its initial introduction to buyers, as it is one of the most expensive options in an already populous field.
• Comfort – Good (4/5): From a comfort aspect the BMD Gen 2 provides much of blast mitigation and recoil control as the Gen 1. There was a notable forward projection of the concussive forces involved (when used in conjunction with the Dragon muzzle brake) with the Gen 2, whereas without the device those forces were directed to the sides and upward. This channeling of the concussion made shooting, especially in enclosed/indoor environments, more bearable.
• Durability – Good (5/5): Made from 4140 CMV, the BMD Gen 2 had an excellent level of durability, with notable improvements to the locking mechanism over the Gen 1. The 4140 metal itself is widely known for its ability to handle long-term usage better than other types of metals commonly associated to the firearms industry, particularly associated to heat and pressure. The Gen 2 secured to the Dragon muzzle brake via the included A2 collar. The rotating locking collar on the Gen 2 was similar to many suppressor locking mechanisms that gave it a very stable and secure hold against the barrel. In addition, the locking collar in essence, “locks in” the A2 collar’s locking lugs and prevented any accidental misalignment, while preventing any wrong-way effort by the user. In essence—one way on, one way off.
• Functionality – Good (4/5): Functionally, the biggest improvement to the Gen 2 over its predecessor was obviously the newly designed locking collar. In the Gen 1, it had merely locked into place using a type of alligator-clip retention that left some play when attached. The Gen 2’s locking collar was very secure with no excess movement. Elsewhere, many of the ports for directing the blast effects and gasses remained relatively the same as the Gen 1, with some improved sizing that allowed more gasses to vent upward quickly. Obviously a majority of the concussive forces involved were still directed forward, and this worked in unison to keet the rifle relatively stable throughout various iterations. The one notable aspect observed between the Gen 1 and Gen 2 was both concentrated carbon buildup on to the Dragon brake itself, whereas without BMD the Dragon was able to clear most of that residue outward. This necessitated regular cleaning after use to prevent buildup (not that it would have affected performance of either device).
• Weight – Average (3/5): Weighing in at a minimal 7.85 ounces (w/Adaptive A2 Collar) the 4140 CMV material of the Lantac BMD Gen 2 hardly added any perceivable weight to the barrel, nor notably unbalanced it. Moreover, during rapid fire the concussive directional control of the BMD 2 balanced with the small amount of weight added to the bore. In contrast, the other market alternatives like the Surefire Warden (6.1 ounces), the Gemtec Blast Jacket (3.5 ounces), the Ferfrans CRD without the associated brake (6.4 ounces), Primary Weapons Systems CQB Compensator (7.6 ounces), or the Oppressor (9.5 ounces) by Strike Industries all show that the chosen material type is often the delineating factor between brands. As such the BMD Gen 2 is about average in weight between the noted competitors.

Overall Rating – Above Average (18/25)

Product Link: https://www.lantac-usa.com/product-page/copy-of-bmd-blast-mitigation-device-complete-with-a3-adapter-collar

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.