High Ground Media, LLC

As part of its “Urban” product line, the Covert Tactical Jeans by Helikon-Tex were released in early-2021 to provide shooters with a low-vis denim trousers that has real-world application. The Covert Tactical Jeans are made from a 10oz. denim (69% cotton, 27% polyester, 3% rayon, and 1% elastane), and provides a number of traditional elements intent on balancing comfort and function.

Starting at the waist, the Covert Tactical Jeans have eight 50mm (or 1.96in) wide beltloops (two double-loops in the front, one on either side, and four along the back) with an elastic waistband at the rear yolk. These features improve comfort when conducting dynamic movements, with extensive bartack to maintain durability of the materials. The cut of the Covert Tactical Jeans is available as a regular (featured) fit, in a mid-rise waistline. This accounts for a comparable profile to many common civilian denim trousers.

The Covert Tactical Jeans have a hook-and-loop closure, and single-shuttle YKK zipper fly whereby the zipper line itself has enough excess material under it to protect the more sensitive skin areas (i.e. frank and beans) from any accidental pinching.

The two front pockets are a standard pattern, with additional bartack and double line stitching for reinforcement and to account for retention clip items (such as pocket knives). The front pockets further segmented around the sides for rifle magazines or other items. A small interior/concealed pocket is on the inside of both sides of the waistband for pistol magazines, cash, or documents.

The two rear pockets are a wide 9” opening and angled slightly to ensure easy alignment with the hand when reaching behind for the pocket.

The crotch gusset is articulated, with a four-way, flexible panel that provides flexibility to accommodate a variety of shooting stances.

Each pant cuff is single line stitched for reinforcement, and to prevent/limit any fraying or compromise to the material.

The Greyman Covert Tactical Jeans come in denim blue (featured) and sizing runs from a XSmall to 4XL with variance between small, regular, and long inseam.

Product Evaluation Scores:

• Cost – Good (4/5): At the current list price of $87.00 USD, the Covert Tactical Jeans are Helikon-Tex’s take on a low-profile, tactical jeans that also omit some of the obvious “tactical” trademarks (such as external knee pads, hook-and-loop straps, or extravagant fabrics). For the price users get a very durable and functional set of 10oz. denim trousers for the every-day professional life or on the range. Market alternatives to this type of clothing would be the Operatus Tactical Jean ($115 USD) by Viktos, or the Defiance Jeans ($76.99 USD) by Vertx, or the McQuade Lightweight Tactical Jean ($67.99) from Tactical Distributors. There are a multitude of market alternatives that very in price and material, indeed typical men’s jeans run about $100. Among the market, this gave the Covert Tactical Jeans from Helikon-Tex an good level of affordability when considering what it brings to the table from a reputable overseas vendor.
• Comfort – Good (4/5): Worn for a 30-day period, and on several iterations to the range in a variety of stressors, the Covert Tactical Jeans remained extremely flexible and very comfortable. The denim material throughout the trouser proved soft and supportive, and didn’t restrict range of motion. While often the crotch is the point where trousers bind in more extreme movements, the Covert Tactical Jeans had a good level of flex in the gusset to allow for a comfortable range of motion. The one minor negative issue from a comfort aspect to the Covert Tactical Jeans was the hook-and-loop segment above the fly, with some of the hook/loop fabric or corners irritating the underlying skin if not entirely aligned. Perhaps reducing the dimensions of the male-hook material slightly (and not the female) would give more play in spacing. Otherwise, the genuine YKK zipper moved easily and did not bind or cross-thread.
• Durability – Good (4/5): The Covert Tactical Jeans were made from a blend of denim and elastic fabrics that gave the trousers a good level of durability and support. The conditions it was tested in included every-day wear, water, mud, on rock, and on concrete—and aside from usual wear, the material showed little abrasion effect. The trousers were put through three wash cycles and no loose threading or material was noted. Final examination revealed that the jeans had bartack stitching at high-stress points (typically in corners along stitch lines), belt loops, and along the pockets. These all ensured there was no compromise of the stitching or fabric, and if it were to ever become so then it would be limited to the affected area. The only concern was the hook-and-loop segment above the fly, which began curling at the corners (most likely attributed to the heat of the dryer). It could be recommended to Helikon-Tex to run stitching along the perimeter of the segment, and again at the edge to prevent this effect. Additionally, end-users could also allow the jeans to air-dry and possibly avoid the issue as well.
• Functionality – Good (4/5): Functionally, the number of pockets on the Covert Tactical Trousers was extremely useful, re-enforced, and well placed. Most could easily accommodate odd-sized items up to/like a rifle or pistol magazine, and it was noted the mid-pockets (on the hip) and rear pockets allowed for good alternative locations for such items. Having no button at the top of the fly was a definite improvement as it alleviated any concern over tearing the button off, or it digging into the stomach from a battle belt. The fly itself had a single shuttle, and would have been a good feature to have dual shuttles for ease of access while wearing gear. As noted in the Comfort section, the elastic material woven into the gusset of the jean’s ensured the material remained flexible during movement, but not so much as to detract from the jean’s lower profile. Perhaps one suggestion for Helikon-Tex to improve the Covert Tactical Jeans would be to add some measure of padding along the waistband in addition to the elastic segments. One negative functional aspect end-users should note is the hook-and-loop segment above the fly; it has the hook (male) fabric oriented outwards (probably to avoid chafing the skin), but it is very grabby and will snag/pull shirts, coats, gear, and even the lint in the dryer. Be sure to put the hook-and-loop fabric together before placing into the wash.
• Weight – Good (4/5): Weighing in at 1.75 pounds for a size XL, the Covert Tactical Jeans had a good amount of blended denim and elastic material that afforded for full range of motion through the waist and thigh. The chosen density of denim gave the jeans added resistance to abrasion that could be expected on the range or in daily wear, and limit potential tears to the stitching. In comparison, the Operatus Tactical Jean (1.63 pounds) by Viktos, or the Defiance Jeans (1.48 pounds) by Vertx, or the McQuade Lightweight Tactical Jean (0.73 pounds) from Tactical Distributors. These alternatives illustrate that the Covert Tactical Jeans by Helikon-Tex are placed very well amid the market, and have a good overall weight for their design and fabric.

Overall Rating – Good (20/25)

Product Link: https://www.helikon-tex.com/en_usd/sp-ctp-dd-covert-tactical-pants-denim-mid.html

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.

Introduced in 2017, the Kinetic clothing line by Propper apparel is designed as the next evolution in tactical trousers for professional and civilian use.

The Kinetic pants represent a refreshed approach to popular features found in Propper’s traditional tactical trousers that gives the Kinetic a professional appearance with new materials. Constructed of a 6.5oz polyester ripstop (79% polyester / 21% canvas), the material is made from NEXStretch fabric and treated in Teflon to offer a large degree of abrasion and water resistance be it on the job, at the range, or just as an every-day wear.

At the waist, the Kinetic pants have seven 1.5” wide belt loops (four on the front, three on the back) with an elastic slide adjuster on both sides that adds for an extra 2” in the belt line to both sides. The belt line is secured via a simple pass-through plastic button. At the front-most belt loops is also a tab for sunglasses or badge hook. Inside the belt line, the Kinetic has a single bead of silicone that runs the entire length and acts as a shirt stopper. Inside the inseam, the crotch has a minimal gusset for added flexibility. The fly uses genuine YKK zipper and the shuttle comes with a logoized pull tab.

The “classic” cut of the Kinetic pants offer a wide pant-leg from hip to ankle that maximizes maneuverability. It also has the standard four-pocket layout at the waist (two pockets in the front, two hook-and-loop secured pockets in the back), with the front pockets re-enforced to accommodate clip-on items (such as a pocket knife or flashlight).

Each thigh has a 4” wide low-profile pocket that will fit most modern smartphones or a single rifle magazine. Additionally, each leg of the Kinetic features an internally divided cargo pocket (secured via hook-and-loop). Above each cargo pocket is a single pen pocket. The knee is reinforced with a slot on the interior for adding a knee pad to each leg.

The Kinetic comes in Black, Charcoal (featured), Coyote, Khaki, LAPD Navy, Olive, and Sherriff’s Brown (featured) and is sized between 28 to 56 waist, and 30 to 37 inseam.

Product Evaluation Scores:

• Cost – Average (3/5): Designed as the updated version to Propper’s traditional tacical trousers, the Kinetic has an MSRP of $54.99 and includes a thicker polyester blend (both in percentage and weight) that is impregnated with Teflon to be inexpensive, and provide moderate resistance to abrasion. Some comparable market alternatives would include 5.11’s CDCR Duty Cargo Pants ($52.49) or Stryke ($74.99), Vertx’s Phantom LT 2.0 ($58.95), or Tru-Spec’s 24-7 Pro Flex ($59.99). At its current list price, there are tactical trousers (such as by Crye) that far exceed the Kinetic in terms of cost, as well as some trousers (Condor) that are cheaper. As is, and among those competitors noted, the Kinetic is of median (or average) cost to the consumer for a light tactical pant.
• Comfort – Good (4/5): With a gusset in the crotch and inseam, the NEXStretch’s flexibility for more dynamic body movements (lunges and taking a knee) was greater than the HLX, and not restrictive in the upper thigh and inner groin to any notable degree. The overall material of the Kinetic felt heavier than the HLX pants, and the Kinetic felt more like the “classic” cut. The front pockets had an interior polyester lining on the bottom, and soft fleece on the top and were a nice improvement on comfort over other tactical trousers. The hook-and-loop-secured rear pockets felt nice and would kept the contents in place but the flaps could be easily opened. The inner lining of the low-profile pockets were also lined with fleece; however, it should be noted that the low-profile pocket will accommodate a rifle magazine or cell phone—but not a cell phone in a protective case.
• Durability – Good (4/5): The Kinetic had extensive bartack throughout the pants and reinforced stitching was noted at key stress points to include at the belt loops, and pockets. The machining process for this also left a lot of loose or errant threads along the belt line that had to be removed or burnt. The Teflon application of the material did keep some moisture off (poured water) thanks to its repellent properties, but the long-term application of this treatment could not be tested. It is likely the Teflon will keep some aspects of moisture, such as rain or mud, off for a time, but not if submerged. The YKK zipper slid easily and did not cross-thread. Elsewhere, the plastic threaded button that secures the belt line was of some concern, as it felt flimsy and with its stitching could easily pop off if a gun belt or other item were pressed/pulled against it. From a durability aspect, the only thing recommended to Propper for improvement would to make the belt line button metal and integrated into the material, similar to what is on the HLX. This would make it more duty applicable.
• Functionality – Good (4/5): The Kinetic had many of the more obvious tactical aspects that the HLX did not, specifically, the inclusion of cargo pockets. As noted, there were a number of lose threads in and around the belt loops that was purely aesthetic. Elsewhere, the cargo and rear pockets were secured via hook-and-loop, and were easily opened (something that if grappling could result in spillage of contents). The elastic sliders on the belt line added up to 2” of length to each side, and made it extremely comfortable. It is recommended that consumers consider ordering at, or one size below, their actual pant sizes as Propper seems to run a little on the plus side in measurement, and the elastic sliders accommodated for this. The NEXStretch gusset was wider on the Kinetic than the HLX’s gusset material, and the improvement over flexibility in the upper thigh and crotch was apparent. Minimal areas of recommended improvement on functionality for Propper would be to change out the belt line button for the reasons noted above in the durability section.
• Weight – Average (3/5): Coming in at 1.98 pounds, the Kinetic was very lightweight, something attributed to the polyester and Teflon blend of its materials that balanced abrasion resistance with its NEXStretch flexibility. In comparison, the 5.11’s CDCR Duty Cargo Pants (2 pounds) or Stryke (2 pounds), Vertx’s Phantom LT 2.0 (0.7 pounds), or Tru-Spec’s 24-7 Pro Flex (1.6 pounds) all demonstrate the diversity in weight of tactical trousers, and put the Kinetic’s weighted materials on average within the market.

Overall Rating – Above Average (18/25)

Product Link: https://www.propper.com/mens/pants/tactical-pants/propper-kinetic-pant-mens.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.

 

Released in late 2020, the Ops-Core AMP Communication Headset represents one of the most advanced tactical communication and electronic hearing protection devices currently on the market. The AMP brings together dual-purpose design that allows for over-the-head configuration, or integration onto a helmet-mounted accessory rail to meet a variety of mission needs.

Exterior

Out of the box, the Adaptive Mission Platform (AMP) comes with a removable pad with quick-attach/release points, and hook-and-loop tabs that enable the AMP to be quickly configured between n over-the-head headband, or helmet-mounted operation.

From the outside, the housing for the AMP is made from an injection-molded, glass polymer to provide the lowest profile possible. The housing itself provides the end-user with full, over-ear ergonomic foam cups that give a good level of comfort and noise attenuation with less fatigue over time. The exterior and all outward connections (speakers, microphones, battery compartment, etc.) are sealed with rubberized gaskets to provide IPX7 salt water immersion protection to the headset.

On either earpiece is a port that integrates with any U-173/U standard PTT radio plug, and comes with a removable noise-cancelling microphone that and can be mounted on either side, or removed entirely. Additionally, quick release downlead connection points allow for single comms, double comms (one per side), or no downleads.

The AMP is powered by three lithium AAA batteries that give the headset 120 hours of continual 3D Hear-Through (3DHT) audio runtime (80 hours with NFMI earplugs (not included) engaged). If no movement is detected for two hours, a series of warning tones will prompt the power save feature before shutting the headset off. The shutdown can be reset by pressing any audio button.

The ear seals themselves are open-cell foam and resistant to high temperatures, with a layered design to provide baffling against exterior sound impulses and interference. Inside are noise-cancelling speakers that connect into the interior programming, and offer enhanced 3DHT electronic programming and control of audio input from the exterior microphones down to 22 decibels—thus meeting EN352 hearing certification.

Internal

The internal electronics of the AMP offer 3DHT technology that enhances the “natural hearing” of the external environment, while reducing ambient noise (such as gunfire) to negligible levels. The 360 ̊ directional detection reproduces external noise with internal directional accuracy.

The AMP internals also assist in mitigating external sound levels down to manageable levels, all while ensuring desired sounds (such as voice commands) pass-through and are clearly heard. The internal electronics on the AMP can mitigate down to a comfortable Nosie Reduction Rating (NRR) of 22 decibels. The AMP also has the added benefit of the NFMI earplugs (sold separately) which can further reduce exterior noise levels down to a NRR of 34 decibels while still maintaining clear vocal audio.

Noise Protection Ratings

The internal programming also enables an exterior selector switch (on NFMI-enabled AMP versions) to toggle between NFMI usage or to turn off the sound amplification setting. More technical noise reduction of the AMP includes:

Feature	AMP Headset Alone	AMP Headset w/NFMI Earplugs
Noise Reduction Rting (NRR)	22	34
Signal to Noise Rating	27	41
High	31	41
Medium	23	39
Low	19	34

Hardware

Included in this review (but sold separately) is the AMP Rail Mount Kit (RMK) that is a hinge-type mount (under spring tension) that attaches the AMP to Ops-Core Arc rails. The RMK has a single gimbal point for 360 ̊ adjustment/rotation of the earcups for end-user comfort. The RMK also has a pivot joint at the base that enables the AMPs to rotate to the upwards or to the rear of the helmet during storage.

The AMP is available in 499 Tan (featured), Ranger Green, Urban Grey, Black and Multicam.

Product Evaluation Scores:

• Cost – Average (3/5): With an MSRP of $1,025.95 the AMP represents the apex of current technology, design, and hearing protection for professionals and civilians alike. As a whole this puts the AMP at a high price point due to its emergent technology and limited supply due to focus on providing support to military organizations. In limited contrast, the closest competitors to the AMP would be the newest Peltor ComTac VI (w/dual lead) ($1,225), or the new Liberator V Headset (w/dual lead) ($911.00) from Safariland. Considering the market for the latest in electronic hearing protection, the AMP is appropriately (or of average) cost to the consumer and well placed amid the market.
• Comfort – Good (4/5): From a comfort aspect, the AMP had a good level of comfort in its physical construction with both ear cups using open-cell foam padding that was common to most over-ear protection. This did however, seal the ear and as a result some minor sweating was noted during drills and extended wear. Frequently, gel-cup inserts are sold separately for added comfort, but as of this post Ops Core does not offer such an upgrade—and that would be one recommendation for Ops Core to consider. Elsewhere, the 1.5” wide headband of the AMP, while worn in the over-head configuration, was comfortable but not significantly (approx. ¼” thick) padded so over time (2+ hours) the headband was noted to pull slightly on the crown of the head and fatigue slightly. Alternatively, while worn using the RMK, the AMP was still worn comfortably, though notably did not provide the same level of inward pressure and seal as while the AMP was worn with the over-the-head configuration. The RMK method of use however still provided good noise mitigation and at no point became loose nor shifted to allow any potential noise penetration. Lastly, the buttonology and layout of the input options (volume, ON/OFF, microphones) was comfortable and easily reached, with clear audible and tactile feel when activated or utilized.
• Durability – Good (4/5): The AMP was notably made from the same glass-polymer housing as other top quality hearing protection and other modern day accessories, giving it a good level of durability. The microphone, downlead ports, and battery caps were all sealed with rubberized gaskets that prevented incidental (rain) moisture penetration and is what gave the AMP an overall IPX7 waterproof certification. The foam covers to the microphones and boom mic were the frailest of the overall unit and over time showed gradual signs of wear, though these are minor components to the hearing protection and nothing significant nor detrimental to function. One negative aspect to the open-cell foam in the ear cups was that when stored against the helmet or stowed tightly inside the headband, the foam would stay compressed and may flatten over time. Again as before, gel ear cups may resolve this to a larger degree but those are not offered by Ops Core at this time. Lastly, over time and drills, the RMK held up well with the joint allowing rotation, and opening of the ear cups away from the head showing no signs of wear or loosening over time and use.
• Functionality – Excellent (5/5): Functionally, the AMP was at the top of the market for electronic hearing protection and provided excellent functionality. Most notably, the 3DHT noise mitigation/amplification provided an almost unreal level of amplification to lower noises (such as voices) and lowering of higher decibel sounds (gunfire). But the 3DHT also provided near 360-degree coverage with conversation and background noise behind the shooter coming just as clearly as those around the front. The interchange between the over-the-head configuration to the RMK, and then back again was easily done with little prep work in setting up or modification needed. The ability to interchange microphones to different types (sold separately) allowed the AMP to configure as needed by the end-user and equipment available. The downlink port covers, as well as the battery caps did have a retention lanyard for each, but the microphone port covers did not, risking loss or misplacement. Users will need to find a safe place for storage when one port (or both) are being used.
• Weight – Average (3/5): The overall weight of the AMP was neither overbearing, fatiguing, nor pulled on the crown of the head excessively while in the headband configuration, and the weight of the AMP really depended on which configuration was chosen. With the rail mounted configuration, the weight of the headset was borne more from the helmet itself and part of the associated suspension/padding system. As such, the weight differences came in at:
  • Headband Configuration……………….0.85 lbs.
  • NFMI Headband Configuration……..0.92 lbs.
  • Rail Mounted Configuration…………..0.94 lbs.
  • NFMI Rail Mounted Configuration…1.01 lbs.
• In contrast, the weight of the competitive Peltor ComTac VI (w/dual lead in headband configuration) (0.74 lbs.), or the new Liberator V Headset (w/dual lead in headband configuration) (0.875 lbs.) from Safariland illustrate that the Ops Core AMP headset is of an appropriate (or average) weight amid the market, the electronic earpro design, and technology involved.

Overall Rating – Above Average (19/25)

Product Link: https://shop.gentexcorp.com/ops-core-amp-communication-headset-connectorized/

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.