High Ground Media, LLC

Owned and operated by US Tactical Systems in Washington, Missouri, Elite Survival Systems (ESS) is a manufacturer of quality products focusing on concealment, transport, or field use for the public. Among its core product line, is the Cobra Riggers Belt and SIDEWINDER™ Adaptive MOLLE Battel Belt. Worn together, the two provide for a comfortable, sturdy belt fit for range or tactical applications.

Elite Survival Cobra Riggers Belt 

The Cobra Riggers Belt is Elite Survival’s take on the classic field belt and can serve as a stand-alone belt or the foundation of a full range/duty belt. It’s Cobra Riggers Belt CRB was among the first to offer the patented AustriAlpin Cobra quick release belt buckle with a rescue D-ring.

The Cobra Buckle is rated to 4000 pounds (straight pull) of force, and the D-ring is rated to 5000 pounds (straight pull), exceeding ANSI Z359.1, CSA, EN, UIAA, and NFPA standards. There is a full “rigger’s stitch” on the D-ring side for added strength and durability.

The belt itself consists of 1.75″ Mil-Spec Type 13 webbing that is rated to 7000 pounds (straight pull) tensile strength. The webbing gives the belt a rigid profile that can support additional gear to be added either directly to the belt, or via a padded battle belt.

Product Link: https://www.elitesurvival.com/belts/cobra-riggers-belt/

SIDEWINDER™ Adaptive MOLLE Battle Belt

The SIDEWINDER™ is a 4.75″ padded battle belt offered by Elite Survival as an alternative to mounting holsters or pouches to your belt, while providing comfort to the weight on the body.

The SIDEWINDER is made from 1000D nylon construction and includes segmented PALS panels to accommodate any MOLLE attachment pouch or holster. At either end of the belt are hook-and-loop retention straps that ensure the base belt does not rotate or slide.

The belt itself consists of thick, 1/4” closed cell foam padding with mounting points/hardware for attaching suspenders or a vest (sold separately). On the interior of the SIDEWINDER is a vented mesh to aid in airflow and moisture wicking. On the belt’s interior face, at the rear, is a rubberized panel to increase the overall belt’s grip and prevent slippage during dynamic body movements.

Product Link: https://www.elitesurvival.com/belts/sidewinder-adaptive-molle-battle-belt/

Elite Survival System’s Belt Specifications:

• Sizes:
  • SM – Fits 26-31 waist
  • M   – Fits 32-38 waist
  • L   – Fits 39-44 waist
  • XL – Fits 45-50 waist
  • XXL – Fits 51-56 waist

The SIDEWINDER belt available in Black, Coyote, Olive Drab, and Multicam (featured). The D-Ring Cobra buckle by AustiAlpin available only in Black or Coyote (featured).

Product Evaluation Scores:

• Cost – Average (3/5): With the Cobra Riggers Belt at $99.95 and the SIDEWINDER at $72.95, the price point for both belts is based on the overall volume of material, and the quality of nylon involved. Elements like stitching and source (domestic or overseas) can also influence the vendor’s price point. Comparable market alternatives would be; the Assaulters Gun Belt ($81.61) and the Padded AGB Sleeve ($106.81) by First Spear, or the Cobra IDR Riggers Belt (no hook-and-loop) ($91) and Suregrip Padded Belt ($120) by HSGI. With regards to price, it is a tradeoff with the Rigger’s Belt by Elite Survival still above price point of competitors, but the SIDEWINDER below. Thus, the cost of both belts is considered a draw (or average), and left to the consumer to determine how those costs would best fit within their needs or if mixing in alternatives is more feasible.
• Comfort – Average (3/5): Worn independently, the Rigger’s belt felt like any other, with stiff contouring consistent with Type 13 webbing. The Cobra buckle itself provided a clear and audible lock, although the D-ring tended to move around unnecessarily. A good suggestion for improvement would be to add a hook-and-loop retention strap to their Rigger’s belt to keep that D-ring flush. When combined with the SIDEWINDER, the larger, padded belt added comfort and provided a wider base by which the belt grabbed the waist line. The foam padding of the SIDEWINDER itself was not overly thick, but its width did give the hip significant protection from the weight borne.
• Durability – Excellent (5/5): Like most Elite Survival products, the Cobra Rigger’s Belt and the SIDEWINDER were both made from materials with a high degree of abrasion resistance. A number of vendors use Type 13 webbing to form the base material their rigger belts because of its high degree of tensile strength, as well as the webbing’s ability to withstand abrasion (the buckle often being the weakest aspect in any belt). There was notable reinforcement stitching on the belt that anchored the buckle and made for an extremely solid product. Similarly, the SIDEWINDER was crafted from 1000D nylon, a material also noted for its abrasion resistance, but intended more to support the weight of accessories or items hung around the waist. The outer edging and PALS sections of the SIDEWINDER were all double stitched, while the inner lines of MOLLE webbing had bartack that combined gave the belt a good deal of durability.
• Functionality – Average (3/5): Functionally, the belts were of average performance, demonstrating the expected aspects for their use. The sizing to the Cobra Belt was a little on the plus size; but once ran through the SIDEWINDER, the excess was used up by threading it through the MOLLE/PALS panels and/or additional accessory pouches. The rubberized panel helped ensure the outer SIDEWINDER didn’t rotate or sag. The MOLLE panels held up under stressor drills and supported the weight of fully loaded pouches with ease.
• Weight – Good (4/5): With the Cobra Riggers Belt (size Large) coming in at 14 ounces, and the SIDEWINDER at 9 ounces, the total weight for both as the foundation of a battle/range belt was very minimal. In truth the weight of a battle/range belt comes from its accessory pouches and loaded magazines thus the foundation belt(s) play a minor (but critical) role. In comparison, alternative competitors to Elite Survival’s riggers belt would be the Assaulter’s belt (10.8 ounces) from First Spear, or the Cobra IDR Riggers Belt (12.8 ounces) from HSGI. Alternatives to the SIDEWINDER would be the Padded AGB Sleeve (11.2 ounces) from First Spear, and the Suregrip Padded Belt (16 ounces) from HSGI. It should be noted that the most probable reason Elite Survival’s Cobra Riggers Belt weighs more than others is the belt’s inclusion of a D-ring into the Cobra Buckle, whereas other venders either do not offer such a variant or do so at an added cost. In contrast, the SIDEWINDER was still less in weight than either alternative listed, demonstrating the effective use of design and materials to deliver a lightweight foundation for a battle/range belt.

Overall Rating – Above Average (18/25)

Product Link: https://www.elitesurvival.com/belts/

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 2019, the Vortex Impact 4000 Laser Rangefinder was designed to meet the demands of serious hunters and long-range shooters who require first-hit accuracy and performance in the field. With the ability to range reflective targets out to 4,000 yards and multiple ranging modes, the Razor HD 4000 has established itself as the flagship rangefinder for Vortex. Its rugged magnesium construction, simple controls, and advanced features make it a reliable tool for challenging hunting and precision shooting applications.

The Impact 4000 Laser Rangefinder has an overall outer dimension of 2.5” (H) x 4.6” (L) x 3.2” (W) and uses a ruggedized outer polymer shell to maintain all-weather resistance and maximum durability without adding excess weight. 

The front-facing window of the 4k houses the rangefinder’s 25 mm objective lens, as well as the laser emitter and receiver used for precise (accurate to 100 yards) distance measurements up to 4,000 yards (for reflective targets). The outer lens element is fully multi-coated to maximize light transmission, reduce glare and reflections, and improve visibility in a variety of weather conditions. 

At its sides, the operations adjustment dial (on the left) rotates to allow the 4k visible laser to be enabled (or ON)/disabled (or OFF), or a turret to adjust the laser’s horizontal windage and CR123 battery compartment (on the right). 

The rearward side of the 4k includes a rectangular 1.3” (measured diagonally) LCD display screen that provides the shooter with critical shot data, such as range data, ballistic solutions, wind holds, and environmental information to the shooter. Under the screen is a rubberized button that toggles the screen’s backlight function when needed. 

On top of the housing is the 4k’s main control interface, to include rubberized navigational buttons to move through the device’s various menus, a settings button to bring up range/target/profile/range card functions, the wind bearing calculator (WBC) button, and the elevation turret to adjust the laser’s placement.

The bottom of the 4k includes a mounted picatinny rail that mounts to any associated MIL-STD-1913 rail line. Some accessories are included with the 4k, such as a neoprene elastic cover for the laser rangefinder, a wireless four-button remote (with multiple mounting clips), lens cleaning cloth, and adjustment tools.

While the physical attributes of the Impact 4000 Laser Rangefinder are rather straightforward, the device requires several technical adjustments that first must be performed before the device is ready for use. This includes calibration of the internal digital compass and inclinometer, and zeroing the internal laser. From there you can go on to setup and calibrate the varied shooting modes that best fit the desired application, smartphone app, or other devices. 

The Impact 4000 Laser Rangefinder is currently only available in Tan (featured). It does not include a spare picatinny rail section, or the diving board scope ring (sold separately) for mounting. 

***Editor’s Note: or the purposes of this review, testing and evaluation focused specifically on the Impact 4000 Laser Rangefinder and its associated remote device. While the companion smart-device application and additional aftermarket accessories are available and recommended for users seeking to further expand the system’s capabilities, they were outside the scope of this evaluation and are therefore not addressed in this publication.***

Product Evaluation Scores:

• Cost – Good (4/5): With an MSRP of $2,199.99, the Impact 4000 Laser Rangefinder occupies a unique position in the market, as few shooting accessories combine an onboard ballistic calculator and laser rangefinder into a single, integrated system. These capabilities are typically offered as separate devices. By integrating both technologies into a compact and durable package, the Impact 4000 consistently delivers accurate range measurements and optic hold solutions while accounting for environmental variables such as wind, humidity, temperature, and barometric pressure. Alternatives to the Impact 4000 vary in intended users, capabilities, and cost, with options including the RAPTAR-S ($9,119) by Wilcox, the X4-LRF ($2,195) by Maztech, the FIRE4000 ($1,500) by Tango Innovations, and the MARS ($10,449) by Envision Technology. The broad price range of these systems demonstrates that while the Impact 4000 carries a substantial cost, its integrated capabilities and civilian availability position it competitively within the current market. When compared with similarly capable weapon-mounted laser rangefinding systems, the Impact 4000 provides a strong balance of performance, functionality, and affordability for long-range shooters.
• Comfort – Good (4/5): From a comfort and usability standpoint, the Impact 4000 exhibited smooth button operation, and gave intuitive navigation through its onboard menus. The tactile controls provided positive feedback, allowing menu selections, ballistic profiles, and other device connections to be made confidently without excessive force or uncertainty. Likewise, those who prefer never to come off the rifle while behind it will find the supplied remote an advantage, as it can give the support hand easy access to the main navigation buttons to adjust between menus or using the laser to identify range. Additionally, the backlit display offered good readability despite its relatively small viewing area, remaining legible in both bright daylight and low-light environments. The menu layout was logical, allowing users to quickly access ranging modes, ballistic data, and system settings with minimal familiarization. The primary detractor to the user experience was the calibration procedure required prior to operation. During evaluation, the Impact 4000 failed multiple calibration attempts, requiring the process to be repeated before the system would successfully initialize. The calibration routine relies on the onboard inertial measurement unit, digital compass, and environmental sensors to establish the device’s orientation relative to the Earth’s horizon and magnetic field. It was observed that successful calibration was significantly more consistent when performed in a flat, open area where the sensors had an unobstructed reference to the horizon. Conversely, locations with dense vegetation, nearby hillsides, steep terrain, or other obstructions frequently resulted in calibration failures, suggesting that the sensor suite had difficulty establishing a reliable reference during the calibration sequence. Because this calibration must be repeated whenever the device is operated more than approximately 30 miles from its previous location, that setup requirement may present challenges for users who routinely travel between geographically separated shooting locations. Precision rifle competitors attending matches across multiple states, hunters operating in unfamiliar terrain, or professional users deploying across varying environments will experience this process each time before the system becomes fully usable/accurate. While the calibration process itself is not technically difficult, repeated failures can negatively affect user confidence and slow deployment when time is limited. The onboard function of building up to 10 Range Cards does provide rapid shooting solutions, but only for a single geographic setup. A worthwhile enhancement would be for Vortex to implement onboard support for multiple user-defined calibration profiles or location-based presets that could integrate the Range Card shooting solutions and be stored in memory and recalled as needed. Such a feature could reduce the frequency of full calibration routines while improving overall usability for users who regularly transition between known shooting locations. Using the Geoballistics Smart-device App additional profiles and data may be utilized to augment the Impact 4000, but then the user is introducing another device, more data, and more decision making into the process flow (to include in-app purchases) and could become overwhelming to some users.
• Durability – Excellent (5/5): The onboard sensor suite within the Impact 4000 was protected by a rugged impact-resistant polymer housing designed to provide environmental protection against moisture ingress, dust, and field debris. The sealed exterior construction effectively isolated the internal electronics, laser components, and environmental sensors from common operational hazards encountered during field use. While Vortex does not publicly identify the specific material composition or protective treatment applied to the forward-facing optical window, the lens exhibited the same visual tint, coating appearance, and light transmission characteristics commonly associated with Vortex’s other fully multi-coated optical systems, suggesting the use of similar anti-reflective and protective lens treatments. Throughout the evaluation period, the forward-facing optical element demonstrated strong durability under repeated exposure to recoil, environmental contaminants, and normal field handling. The glass exhibited no visible chipping, cracking, surface damage, or optical degradation resulting from repeated firing cycles or contact with dust and debris. Additionally, the lens maintained consistent clarity and resisted internal fogging or external condensation during changing environmental conditions, allowing uninterrupted operation of both the laser rangefinder and visible laser alignment system. Laser transmission remained consistent throughout testing, with no observed reduction in ranging performance or zeroing capability. The internal sensor suite also demonstrated reliable performance under repeated recoil exposure. Despite being mounted directly to a firearm platform, the Impact 4000 did not exhibit noticeable sensor drift, loss of calibration, or significant measurement deviation during operation. The integrated orientation, environmental, and ranging sensors maintained repeatable performance throughout testing, indicating that the system’s internal components and mounting structure were sufficiently robust to withstand the mechanical stresses associated with repeated firing while maintaining ballistic calculation accuracy. The Impact 4000 is further supported by Vortex Optics’ transferable VIP Warranty, providing repair or replacement coverage should the device require service due to damage or defects.
• Functionality – Average (3/5): Functionally, the Impact 4000 proved to be a highly capable system, although its full range of features (onboard programming, Bluetooth compatibility to external devices, and smart device app) would be best appreciated by experienced precision rifle shooters. Unlike a conventional handheld rangefinder, the Impact 4000 integrates laser ranging, ballistic computation, environmental sensing, and firearm-specific data into a single weapon-mounted package. As a result, the initial setup process is considerably more involved than that of a traditional rangefinder and requires a greater understanding of ballistic principles, rifle configuration, and environmental inputs to maximize the system’s effectiveness. The most significant functional drawback observed during testing was the initial zeroing procedure. Utilizing the visible aiming laser to zero the Impact 4000 to the rifle requires the user to locate the laser bloom on the supplied reflective target while viewing through an already-zeroed riflescope. Depending on the factory windage and elevation settings of the Impact 4000, the visible laser may initially fall well outside the optic’s field of view, requiring the user to “fish” for the laser before meaningful adjustments can begin. Although this process is only required when initially installing the unit or transferring it between rifles, it can be time-consuming and frustrating for first-time users. Additionally, the supplied reflective tape is limited in quantity. Because re-zeroing may be required when moving the unit between firearms with different height-over-bore measurements or ballistic characteristics, or when replacing worn targets after repeated use, Vortex should consider offering replacement reflective tape as a standard accessory or including additional targets with the unit. Once zeroed to the rifle, however, the Impact 4000 demonstrated excellent functional performance. Likewise, the remote synod without fail to the main device and served as a simple extension to the main navigational buttons. The ability to store firearm characteristics, bullet profiles, muzzle velocities, atmospheric conditions, and other ballistic data allowed the onboard ballistic calculator to work seamlessly with the integrated laser rangefinder. During testing with a 6.5 Creedmoor rifle and the appropriate ballistic profile loaded, the unit consistently generated rapid and accurate firing solutions between 100 and 300 yards, resulting in repeatable first-round impacts on target. The integrated environmental sensors continuously accounted for variables such as temperature, barometric pressure, humidity, and shot angle, minimizing the need for manual corrections under changing field conditions. The three available ranging modes—Horizontal Component Distance (HCD), Line of Sight (LOS), and Ballistics (BAL)—provided flexibility for a variety of shooting applications. HCD mode offered a straightforward corrected distance for hunters and general-purpose shooters, while LOS mode displayed the true measured distance to the target. BAL mode proved to be the most useful during precision rifle testing, providing a complete firing solution that included elevation hold and wind corrections based on the loaded ballistic profile. The ability to quickly transition between these modes allowed the system to adapt easily to different mission requirements and shooter preferences. Another notable strength was the automatic display orientation. The onboard display seamlessly rotated depending on whether the Impact 4000 was mounted horizontally on a scope-mounted diving board or vertically on a side-mounted Picatinny rail, ensuring that displayed information remained properly oriented without requiring user intervention. However, users intending to employ a side-mounted configuration should strongly consider pairing the unit with a quality quick-detach (QD) mount. The integrated rail clamp is positioned beneath the body of the device, making the mounting screws difficult to access once installed and complicating rapid removal or transfer between rifles. The integrated Bluetooth capability further enhanced the system’s overall functionality by allowing communication with compatible external devices, including Kestrel weather meters and Athlon or Garmin chronographs. This enabled the Impact 4000 to import refined atmospheric and ballistic data rather than relying solely on manually entered values, resulting in more precise firing solutions tailored to the user’s specific rifle, ammunition, and environmental conditions. Overall, while the initial setup and zeroing procedures require a greater investment of time than conventional laser rangefinders, the Impact 4000 rewarded that effort with a highly integrated, repeatable, and technically capable fire-control solution well suited for precision rifle applications.
• Weight – Good (4/5): At 16.0 ounces (454 g) including its CR123A battery, the Impact 4000 is neither the lightest nor the heaviest weapon-mounted laser rangefinder currently available. Its weight reflects the inclusion of multiple integrated subsystems—including a laser rangefinder, a ballistics calculator, environmental sensors, digital compass, Bluetooth connectivity, onboard display, and battery—within a single housing. When compared to competing systems, the Impact 4000 is approximately 3.7 ounces heavier than the Maztech X4-LRF (12.3 oz), comparable to the Tango Innovations FIRE4000 (approximately 15–16 oz depending on configuration), and noticeably lighter than professional military systems such as the Wilcox RAPTAR-S (approximately 21 oz) and Envision Technology’s MARS (approximately 20–22 ounces depending on the model). From an operational standpoint, the additional weight of the Impact 4000 was largely offset by the capability it replaced. Rather than carrying a separate handheld laser rangefinder, ballistic computer, weather meter, and associated accessories, the user is provided with a single integrated fire-control system that remains attached to the rifle and delivers immediate firing solutions without requiring the shooter to leave the optic. The primary disadvantage of the 16-ounce weight is that it adds mass forward of the receiver, particularly when mounted on a diving board or forward Picatinny rail. On [super]lightweight hunting rifles this can make the firearm feel more front-heavy during unsupported shooting or extended carry. However, on heavier precision rifles weighing 15 pounds or more, the additional weight had little measurable effect on rifle balance and, in some cases, slightly improved stability by increasing forward mass. Overall, the Impact 4000 occupies a practical middle ground within the weapon-mounted laser rangefinder market, providing substantially more integrated capability than its weight alone would suggest while remaining noticeably lighter than many comparable military-grade systems.

Overall Rating – Good (20/25)

Product Link: https://vortexoptics.com/vortex-impact-4000-ballistic-rail-mounted-laser-rangefinder.html 

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.

Introduced in circa 2019 by True North Concepts as a supportive rifle accessory, “The GripStop” is intended to support end-users with a forward handgrip or stop to control rifle impulse and aid in manipulation.

Made from a proprietary blend of polymer selected for its rigidity and non-marring surface. The GripStop is a curved 3.25” (L) x 1.75” (H) MLOK handguard accessory that provides a fixed point on which end-users can use to pull the rifle into the chest, and further support the firearm through various manipulations.

The forward-facing side of the The GripStop has a textured surface to aid in tactile control, while the reverse/inward side has a 90-degree flushed surface for placing over barricades or obstructions.

The GripStop uses MLOK mounting hardware to attach to the handguard of similar design.

The GripStop is available in Black (featured) or Earth Brown.  

Product Evaluation Scores:

• Cost – Excellent (5/5): With its MSRP price of $24.99, “The GripStop” (GS) is a simplified  product that improves weapon control over stock handguards by providing a solid angled/curved anchoring point to either pull the rifle into the torso, or to control the rifle during transitions. Made of a blended polymer similar to the Racker, the GS was able to absord similar abrasion and impact as similar products. Similar market alternatives include the Handbrake ($40) from Emissary Development, the Karve-P ($28) from RailScales, or the M-LOK AFG ($26.95) from Magpul. This illustrates that the GS is at an excellent price point given the materials and design amid the current market.
• Comfort – Average (3/5): From a Comfort aspect, the GS did provide a curved point of control that made support of the rifle and maneuvering of it easier than without the grip. The contoured face was comfortable against the fingers and did not have any notable harsh edges. However, those with larger hands may find the size of the GS slightly limiting for finger space as the curvature limited the overall surface area for the hand. This was an appropriate (or average) tradeoff with this design whereby it maintained a comfortable minimalist profile, while still offering some measure of improved control.
• Durability – Good (4/5): The durability of the GS was similar to that of the Racker whereby a blended polymer was cast to form the single-piece grip. This left no excess parts for breakage, coming lose, or otherwise needing additional attachment. Prior to mounting, the GS was dropped ten times from a height of approximately six feet, with only minimal surface marring noted—again an indicator to the polymer material to absorb impact and abrasion. After attaching, the GS was used in a variety of positions (barricade and non-barricade) and drills with no evidence of loosening or breakage.
• Functionality – Good (4/5): Functionally the GS gave an angled grip off the axis of the bore, so there is no worry with the ATF regulations on true vertical hand grips for rifles under 16”. Additionally, the curved axis of the GS allowed for a good level of pressure to be generated by the support hand to keep the rifle stabilized and/or controlled during stressor drills or support. The angled inward side made for getting a solid position on barricade work as it held a solid 90-degree angle on the grip that was perfect for boards or corners. It would be a suggestion to True North to explore a larger version of this for those with larger hands as the smaller overall surface area made the grip position feel cramped at times with the outer finger sometimes left “floating”.
• Weight – Good (4/5): Weighing in at a demure 0.7 ounces (with mounting hardware), the GS had a very minimal weight and almost no perceivable heft at the end of the rifle. It neither unbalanced the overall rifle, nor proved to be excessively bulky or fatiguing. In contrast, the Handbrake (0.9 ounces) from Emissary Development, the Karve-P (0.4 ounces) from RailScales, or the M-LOK AFG (1.2 ounces) from Magpul. This validated that the GripStop had a good overall weight amid the current market and its competitors.

Overall Rating – Good (20/25)

Product Link: https://truenorth-usa.com/product/polymer-gripstop/

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.