High Ground Media, LLC

In mid-2018, MSA finalized its divesture of Sordin to Wikmanshyttan Safety. As a result, the longtime MSA product line of electronic hearing protection (Supreme Pro, Pro-X, and other) was rebranded back to Sordin. Talking Headsets, Europe’s largest distributor of hearing protection, updated the Sordin model with the latest technology and new features and dubbed it the SWATCOM Active8 line of headsets. Today the new SWATCOMs represent the future direction of electronic hearing protection for professional and recreational shooters and is offered exclusively at the USA and Canadian distributor for Talking Headsets, SRS Tactical.

Externally

The SWATCOM Active8 headsets feature the same housing design as the former MSA Sordin models, but with a few upgrades. While the traditional three-button functionality remains the same (ON/OFF, Volume UP/DOWN), the battery cap on the external power compartment now features an attached lanyard to prevent loss. A new battery save feature will give the supplied AAA batteries an estimated lifespan of 600 hours by automatically turning off the electronics after four hours of continual runtime. A leather headband protects the cabling and supports the ear pieces.

Internally

Featuring upgrades to its Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC) and microprocessor, the SWATCOM Active 8 combines low-current audio signals with high performance cutoff that instantly compresses external sound impulses at a safe 82dB(A) level, while reducing them to 18dB level at the ear. The independent twin speakers provide 360-degrees of audio attenuation while maintaining clarity and awareness. Between the lowest and highest audio settings there are four levels of audio signal to choose from.

Specifications for SWATCOM Active8

• Waterproof electronics and microphone up to 1-meter for 30min
• Auxiliary input jack for compatible communication devices
• GEL ear-seals to ensure complete protective seal around the ear and to the head
• Leather headband
• Five-year warranty

The SWATCOM Active8 currently comes in Green (featured), Black, Sand and Multicam.

Product Evaluation Scores:

• Cost – Good (4/5): At $330 for high-quality hearing protection, the SWATCOMs are worth every penny. Add into the cost that you are buying the same legacy as the MSA Sordin headsets (which are currently $299), but with updated technology, then the consumer will see the Active8’s value grows. In the end, your hearing is irreplaceable and if you spend a significant amount of time in high-noise environments, then protecting it with a quality product shouldn’t even be a question.
• Comfort – Excellent (5/5): If you have been wearing lower-cost electronic headsets, such as Howard Leight that use foam cell padding in the ear cup, then stepping up into active electronic hearing protection with Gel ear pads is almost orgasmic. The dimensions of the SWATCOM ear cup completely enclose the ear, so the gel seals against the head rather than pinching on parts of the ear (a constant problem for me with Howard Leights). Wearing the SWATCOM for long durations is almost unnoticeable whereas other electronic headsets will cause headaches or soreness in the jaw from excessive pressure as the headset is attempting to clamp the foam earcups against the ear.
• Durability – Good (4/5): Advertised as waterproof to a degree (and with the AUX cap installed), the long-term durability of the SWATCOMs remains unclear. But the overall system won’t fail in outdoor rain or splash of the occasional water. Otherwise much of the same durability that made Sordin Pros popular is carried over in the current SWATCOM line. The leather headband and gel ear pads will likely bear the brunt of most wear, and sanitation kits are available to keep them clean and functional.
• Functionality – Good (4/5): Functionally the SWATCOM headset is pretty straight forward. When ON the sound mitigation is almost immediate, and the button adjustments provide a tangible feel/click/audible beep when adjusting. But with advancements in the ASIC technology, added lanyard to the battery cap to avoid loss, and automatic power shutoff, the headset has a very good level of improved functionality for both professional or recreational shooters. The 360-audio awareness is notable as the dual speakers in the SWATCOM give an almost surreal level of hearing sensitivity in all directions. It should be noted that while shooting at an indoor range at a pratical 2-Gun match I observed others needing to double up their hearing protection, while I fould the lowest audio setting provided the mest mitigation of the indoor sound mitigation while still being able to hear verbal commands.
• Weight – Average (3/5): Weighing in at 1 pound, the SWATCOMs are hardly noticeable when worn (thanks in part to even pressure holding the weight of the headset against the ear rather than leaving it to pull down on the head). In comparison to other electronic headsets, the SWATCOM is heavier than lower-cost models, but comparative in weight to other professional-grade systems, such as from Peltor or Safariland.

Overall Rating – Good (20/25)

Product Link: https://srstactical.com/all-products/headsets-and-hearing-protection/swatcom-active8-waterproof-headsets.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.

Introduced in 2024, the XD Waterproof Boot by VIKTOS is the latest continuation of the company’s Range Trainer design, and builds upon its previous Johnny Combat footwear. The Range Trainer XD balances its breathability with a rugged, waterproof design that can sustain the end-user at work, in the field, or on range.

The chassis of the Range Trainer XD Waterproof Boot (hereafter simply referred to as the XD) is made from a combination in 1060D ripstop nylon (treated with Viktos’ StormStrike™ DWR finish), impregnated polymer fabric, and quality leather, stitched together using double-line nylon thread.

The hardware on the XD includes unique nylon eyelets and polymer hooks that are anchored into the chassis using double line bartack stitching. The laces are friction-less Dupont nylon with plastic tips.

Sidewalls on the XD are made using panels of nylon and polymer-impregnated fabric to give the greatest degree of flexibility in the material and foot during dynamic movement. The upper panels on the boot’s 6” throat include micro-venting to assist in heat dissipation and preventing penetration by debris or dust. The heightened throat also provides the ideal height to support the ankle in light/moderate environments.

The interior lining includes a breathable/waterproof membrane to help ensure the end-user’s feet remain dry and breathe adequately. Meanwhile an EVA hi-rebound foam on the interior’s midsole provides added comfort. When measured from heel-to-toe, there is a slight 10mm drop to lessen the fatigue in the foot as well as aid in natural walking mechanics.

Like the previous Range Trainer boots, the XD draws on and improves the outsole design to the Johnny Combat series footwear by having a full, combat-focused rubber outsole with a leather protected heel. The semi-translucent lug design gives the sole a self-cleaning flex that helps ensure debris or rocks do not remain lodged.

The toe box is reinforced with leather and tapered to accommodate for a variety of environmental situations or conditions that the footwear may encounter.

The VIKTOS Range Trainer XD Waterproof Boot comes in Ranger (featured) or Black, and is available in sizes 6 through 15.

Product Evaluation Scores:

• Cost – Average (3/5): With its list price of $160, the XD boot was made from a blend of materials and design that allows the end-user to perform in any urban or moderate field environment. There were equal blends of nylon, leather, and synthetic materials throughout the chassis that will ensure the product’s longevity despite hard use. In contrast, market alternatives to this type of range boot would be the XA Forces (Mid) boots ($169.95) or the X Ultra Forces ($169.95) by Salomon, the Moab 2 boot ($139.99) by Merrill, or the Raide 2 (Mid) boots ($109.95) by Bates. As such, the XD boot is at an appropriate (or average) price range amid the market for similar boots as well as for the materials and design utilized.
• Comfort – Good (4/5): Sizing for the XD ran true-to-fit (meaning a size 11 will fit as a US-sized 11 shoe – not based on the actual physical length of the user’s foot). It took about a week for the nylon chassis and foam inserts to begin breaking in; but when it did, the XD was very comfortable. The heel was also very well supported and protected, and the boot held its strength from the heel, up the Achilles line, and across to the laces. Thus, it was apparent the boot was designed to give support when and where needed. The sole’s exterior held the standard shock-resistant steyr foam lining on the outer edging that helped support and pad the foot bed, while the taller cuff prevented rolling of the ankle. The XD was most comfortable over the course of a 30-day evaluation cycle during sprints and over loose, level surfaces while still supporting the foot and joints. Lastly, the tongue of the XD was just as thickly padded as the rest of the interior, giving it ample padding against tightened laces and preventing unnecessary pinching.
• Durability – Good (4/5): From a durability aspect, the XD held a good level of durability while worn as a range boot given its tested environment (which included pavement, grass, loose rock, water and mud). By its design, the intent for the XD was to serve as an extension of the Range Trainer footwear into a moderate terrain range boot, and as such the materials excelled in those settings. The 1060D ripstop nylon exterior took a good amount of rough edges, abrasion, and flex with only light/moderate marring to the material—none of which cracked or penetrated the inner layers of the shoe. The boot’s interior padding and lining aided in breathability and flexibility to maneuver various terrain. The double line stitching and very thick bartack at key stress points provided a good level of durability to prevent any separation of the materials. The leather toe cap and heel were appropriate (or average) for a boot of this design and took the brunt of abrasion—but aside from superficial marring performed very well for a range environment and protected the toe while giving the boot structure. It would be a recommendation to Viktos that they consider improving the toe cap to some type of more robust polymer, such as on the X Ultra Forces, as that part of the show often takes on the greatest degree of wear while in the field.
• Functionality – Good (4/5): Functionally, the XD did best with moderate use while on a flat range or amid a modest field environment with movement over loose surfaces (i.e. dirt and lose rock)—this over its previous Range Trainer Boot that was only ideal for flat range surfaces. The XD’s 6” throat and micro-venting materials helped to provide support to the ankle, while giving breathability to alleviate any excessive sweating. The tread was more aggressive than the Range Trainer Boot or other “slick” sole comparators. This heavier tread design and lugs also offered a “self-cleaning” function that kept moisture, small rocks, and debris from building up or caking on. It was noted however, that while mud did spread away from the toe and trusstic portion of the sole, it did fill some of the rear lug design (likely because of the ripples with less spacing between the tread). At no point did moisture penetrate the interior in light/moderate rain or brief submersion (such as when crossing a small brook or creek). Although the XD is branded as “waterproof” that does not apply to prolonged submersion, as invariably moisture did enter the shoe around the ankle when conducting an extended water crossing.
• Weight – Average (3/5): Each individual XD boot weighed in at 1.19 pounds (or 2.38 pounds for the size 11 pair) which is reasonable considering the volume of overall nylon, leather, synthetic materials, and aggressive lug design. In comparison to the market alternatives noted above; the XA Forces (Mid) boots (1.02 pounds per boot) or the X Ultra Forces (0.92 ounces per boot) by Salomon, the Moab 2 boot (1.15 pounds per boot) by Merrill, or the Raide 2 (Mid) boots (1.2 pounds per boot) by Bates show the diversity in weight for similar footwear. However, in the market of alternatives each has differing lug design and underlying materials (nylon, leather, composite, etc.), so that would explain the variance in weight. The features and materials of the VIKTOS Range Trainer XD Waterproof Boot helped ensure it remained an appropriate (or average) weight amid the overall market for the consumer.

Overall Rating – Above Average (18/25)

Product Link: https://www.viktos.com/collections/boots/products/rangetrainerxd-wp-boot

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.

Intended for the intermediate climates between the heat of the summer, and the frigid temps of the winter, the Zerodark™ vest gives shooters the ideal blend of core temperature comfort and freedom in range of motion.

Comprised of Fitelite™ nylon, the Zerodark™ vest has a lightweight outer chassis designed by Viktos with an added water-resistant Dupont™ Teflon® coating for longstanding outdoor use. The Zerodark™ vest also includes an inner layer of 100g Thermolite® insulation for temperature regulation and to serve as a windbreaker.

Exterior

At the top, the Zerodark™ vest has a high collar roll to protect from rifle sling abrasion or wind. A full length YKK zipper has a nylon pull tab with rubberized ends.

The sides include Viktos’ Attackposture™ design, that incorporate four-way, flexible back and underarm panels to give improved flexibility to accommodate a variety of shooting stances.

Along the bottom there are two chest-rig stylized cargo pockets in the front (one each side). These are secured by hook-and-loop, and include nylon draw-string tabs with shrink-tube ends. A low-profile side pocket on each side behind the cargo pockets include a zipper enclosure with a plastic pull tab.

Both sides of the Zerodark™ vest include Viktos’ Gunvent™ design, a unique, dual-zippered side that allows for immediate access to range belt or holstered sidearm while wearing the jacket.

Interior

The interior sides of the Zerodark™ vest have one large and one small angled accessory pocket on each side. In addition, the Viktos “Undefeated” logo appears on the right side front interior.

The Zerodark™ vest is available in Nightfall (featured), Ranger, or Coyote and sized between Small to 3XL.

Product Evaluation Scores:

• Cost – Good (4/5): Viktos currently has the MSRP for the Zerodark™ vest at $120, but is discounting it to $102 as the company prepares to rotate stock for the 2020 spring. With its materials and design, the Zerodark™ vest is both lightweight and functional that keeps the upper core warm despite the wild environmental changes of the spring or fall. In comparison, vests of similar make/material include the 5.11 Peninsula Insulator Vest ($99), Triple Aught Design Syntax Vest ($170), or Arc’teryx Atom LT Vest ($189) – all of which demonstrate the market for designer tactical clothing. As such the Zerodark™ vest, at its current available price of $99, makes it very competitive and among some of the more balanced options on the market given its design and materials.
• Comfort – Good (4/5): Given its lightweight material, and thickness of the insulation layers, the Zerodark™ vest was very comfortable in the early spring weather here in Missouri. Worn in average morning temperatures of 50s-60s, rising to low 70s by mid-day, the Zerodark™ vest allowed for comfortable regulation of temperature and adjusting comfort. The only notable negative aspect was in light winds where the Zerodark™ vest was limited in keeping the overall comfort maintained simply because of the lacking sleeves. Viktos does offer a full-length light Zerodark™ jacket made from the same design and materials, should there be those more interested in overall upper body coverage. The high collar did an excellent job of mitigating abrasion from the sling, and the Attackposture™ design did well to adjust to the more dynamic movements of the upper torso on the range.
• Durability – Fair (2/5): There was an almost grid-like stitching pattern on the outer shell of the Zerodark™ vest that lends to its overall strength in durability. The outer layer was permeated with Teflon which gave it an almost slick feel between the fingers, and helped resist abrasion from things like sliding slings, gun belt, or other accessories. There was minimal double line or overlap stitching, and what was observed was around the zipper or collar line to reinforce the material there. While some thread excess was noted (and easily removed), it was most likely attributed to the manufacturing process. However, prior to conducting range drills there were at least two missed stitches observed; one at the collar line and the other on the interior liner that could also be explained by lapses in the manufacturing process. While minimal, and unlikely to affect the durability of the product in the short-term, over a longer period the threading could become compromised. Indeed, following use on the range, the missed stitch on the collar had broken and the threads needed to be cut. Obviously one recommendation for Viktos would be to consider adding bartack stitching in/around the zipper, along the pockets and its hook-and-loop panels, or high abrasion/tension points.
• Functionality – Average (3/5): The Zerodark™ vest adequately fulfilled its role as a base layer vest for light-to-moderate use—as well as served as an alternative to the Zerodark™ jacket. In that role, the material did keep the user’s central core very comfortable, while the sleeveless design helped to regulate excess heat. On the range, the high collar proved well placed and the Attackposture™ panels did provide for good flexibility in more dynamic movements to the side or in twisting. The YKK zippers for the front and on the Gunvent™ sides provided for smooth and quiet function. The chest rig pockets were very wide and allowed for multiple rifle magazines to be kept there, though it did increase the bulk of the vest. There was sufficient material to close the vest with an IWB CCW holster worn, though access through the Gunvent™ was a little tricky as opposed to simply lifting the vest and conducting the draw. With a gun belt worn (secondary handgun, mag pouches, IFAK), the vest did not have sufficient material to cover the belt and still be closed in the front. It was only with the Gunvent™ open on the side, to allot for room for the OWB holster, was there sufficient material to close the vest. It was noted that much like the Gunfighter Flannel Jacket, the Gunvent™ zippers would inadvertently open from the bottom if the sides of the vest were slightly pulled. Again, this is a common problem with other fleece and light jackets with a similar side opening, and one resolved by having a covering material (secured via snap button) over the bottom of the zipper to secure it as well as reinforce the closure. Viktos may want to consider that as an improvement in its next Gunvent™ design.
• Weight – Good (4/5): Extremely lightweight, the use of the Thermolite as an insulation later allowed the Zerodark™ vest to weigh in at 13.7 ounces while still maintaining the core temperature without excessive bulk. The Zerodark™ vest was even light enough, that Viktos added a loop behind the collar by which to hang the vest to dry when wet. For tactical vests of this type, the market runs the gambit in both material and design (of various weight reflecting those factors). For instance, 5.11’s Peninsula Insulator Vest (16.8 ounces) runs the more traditional design, similar to the Zerodark™ vest with its insulation, pockets, and a quick access sides. Whereas in comparison, the Arc’teryx Atom LT Vest (7.8 ounces) is a more minimalist design we few pockets and intended more to serve as a base layer in conjunction with other outer garments. Regardless, the Zerodark™ vest was still one of the lightest vests available that offers insulation and some level of tactical function. Viktos could likely add additional reinforcement stitching to key areas without significant increases to the product’s weight.

Overall Rating – Above Average (17/25)

Product Link: https://www.viktos.com/collections/outerwear/products/zerodark-vest

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.