High Ground Media, LLC

Building off the past success of its Savior Equipment Mobile Arsenal (SEMA) backpack, in 2019 Savior Equipment released a Compact variant of the same bag that was 30% lighter, but retains the same functionality of the original.

The SEMA-Compact, or SEMA-C, is made entirely from 600D polyester and includes a lockable internal polymer handgun case that secures and protects your handguns inside the pack. The double stitching throughout adds durability to the overall backpack’s design.

Exterior

At the front, the SEMA-C has a laser-cut, MOLLE compatible field for additional accessories or pouches. At the top is a large (female) hook-and-loop field for identification of morale patches. Between these features is a zipper-secured kangaroo pouch for smaller, immediate access items.

Behind the front is a zipper-secured administrative compartment that includes; two mesh pockets secured via zipper, three accessory pockets (two of which offer shock cord retention), and three pockets with hook-and-loop flaps of varying sizes. It should be noted that the dual zippers to the admin compartment open along all three sides, thus allowing the front interior to lay completely flat for a convenient workspace.

On the bag’s left side is another laser-cut, MOLLE panel for smaller accessories, pouches, or IFAKs. Oppositely, on the bags right is a zipper-secured access panel that gives the user direct access to the hardened handgun case that includes three individual soft, lockable fold-over handgun cases. It should be noted the handgun case itself encompass half of the internal storage space of the backpack, but is removable if so desired. Both sides also include compression straps secured via slide-release buckles.

At the top of the SEMA-C is a reinforced nylon carry handle that includes X-type stitching and ends in a plastic D-ring on either side to hang carabiners or other hook-type items. An added bonus to the SEMA-C is a hidden rain cover that is stored in a concealed pocket just above the top of the shoulder straps.

The backpanel of the SEMA-C includes three, thick air-mesh padded zones (two shoulder and one kidney) that provide comfort and improved airflow. The shoulder strap themselves are contoured and similarly padded, and include an adjustable sternum strap. At the bottom of the backpanel is a removable nylon waist strap with large slide-release buckle.

The bottom of the SEMA-C has four aggressively contoured polymer pads for added retention of the backpack on slick surfaces.

Interior

The interior of the SEMA-C is accessed at the top via zipper, and has a storage space of only half the overall height of the bag (while the hardened pistol case is installed). At the back is a hydration sleeve with access through the top of the pack.

If desired, the internal divider between the storage space and hardened pistol case can be removed, as well as the case, to provide storage access to the full height of the backpack. Doing so however, means loss of the SMEA-C’s handgun storage case.

Specifications:

• External Size: 16” (H) x 11” (W) x 9” (D)
• Hardened Handgun Case Size: 8” (H) x 7” (W) x 11” (D)
• Individual Soft Pistol Case Size: 8” (H) x 10.5” (W) x 1” (D)
• Storage Space Size w/Hard Case Installed: 7.5” (H) x 10.5” (W) x 7” (D)
• 600D Polyester Exterior & Interior Shell
• TSA Compliant Zippers

The SEMA-C is available in Obsidian Black (featured), FDE Tan, Ash Gray, and OD Green.

Product Evaluation Scores:

• Cost – Good (4/5): At $89.99 the SEMA-C has a fair enough amount of 600D material and the polymer pistol case to warrant the design and function. The closest competitor to the SEMA-C is the Talon Strong Backpack ($99.95) by Double Alpha Academy or the GPS Tactical Range Bag ($154). The market has further alternatives that are comparable to these costs, and in almost all of them the SEMA-C was one of the lesser expensive options, and thus gave it a good scoring for its place within the current market.
• Comfort – Average (3/5): Like most tactical backpacks, the thick air-mesh foam pads of the SEMA-C’s backpanel and shoulder straps gave it sufficient padding as found in other packs. When fully loaded with three handguns, ammo, and range accessories the weight of the SEMA-C bore on the lower back to some degree, but that pressure was offset by the kidney pad. It should be noted that users will want to keep the weight of the pack up high where it will be most comfortable, and not let the bag droop to where the weight would also pull on the shoulders. Otherwise the laser-cut panels and sleek exterior gave the SEMA-C a nice, low-profile and minimalist feel that could be easily built upon with either MOLLE-compatible pouches or accessories.
• Durability – Average (3/5): Given that the SEMA-C was made from the same 600D polyester material as other products in the Savior Equipment’s lineup, the material thus offered the same level of abrasion resistance. There was reinforced X-pattern and double line stitching noted at key stress points that ensured the pack was adequately strengthened. Internally, the divider between the main storage area and hardened pistol case could have used more attention as the threading and hook-and-loop didn’t fit precisely and took some manipulation to remove and then reinsert (however it was unclear if this was also by design). The zippers to the three pistol cases moved and felt smooth and did not bind at corners. Perhaps the biggest detractor to the overall durability score of the SEMA-C was the material of the admin compartment as it felt thin, and would likely not sustain longevity or abrasion if loaded with items that have hard/sharp/angled corners or were weighty thus limiting its usage.
• Functionality – Average (3/5): From a functional aspect the SEMA-C is much like its predecessor, the full-sized SEMA but was now is 30% lighter due to size reduction and less material. That said, the pack still had the same usage in transporting up to three pistols and associated range accessories. It should be noted however, that this reduction has come at a cost. While the SMEA-C retained the ability to transport firearms and accessories securely, the user must make the choice between what specifically is carried. The storage compartment is sufficient to carry electronic earpro, target pasters, gloves or other range items, but did not have sufficient space to carry those items and the associated ammo for all three firearms. This also does not include space if the user is also shooting a rifle and needs further space for those magazines and ammo as well. The designed intent for the SEMA-C makes it good for competitive IDPA/USPSA shooters, but not for general training or field use. It would have helped the SEMA-C’s overall score if there had been side loops for securing competition belts on the exterior, or had made the side MOLLE panel an elastic pocket to hold targets, a water bottle, or other items that otherwise had to go inside the storage space.
• Weight – Good (4/5): At 5.6 pounds (empty) a majority of that weight stems from the polymer handgun case and three pistol sleeves inside the pack. The 600D polyester material also had a slightly heavier weight to it than lesser denier nylon. In comparison, the Talon Strong Backpack came in at 5.7 pounds, and the GPS Tactical Range Bag was listed at 6.15 pounds. These alternatives all share the same overall design, but differences in materials were what made the SEMA-C one of the lighter options available.

Overall Rating – Above Average (17/25)

Product Link: https://www.saviorequipment.com/collections/pistol-case/products/sema-mobile-arsenal-backpack-compact

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 2022, the Range Trainer Waterproof boot by Viktos is an advancement on the previous Johnny Combat design and balances breathability with a rugged design to sustain the end-user with a tactical mindset at work, in the field, or on range.

The chassis of the Range Trainer Waterproof (RTW) boot is made from a ripstop nylon stitched together using double-line nylon thread.

The hardware on the RTW includes unique nylon eyelets with rubberized edges that are anchored into the chassis using double line bartack stitching. The laces are Dupont nylon with plastic tips.

Sidewalls on the RTW are also made using panels of nylon and ripstop nylon to give the greatest degree of flexibility in the material and foot during dynamic movement. The upper panels on the 6” throat includes 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 but breathe adequately. Meanwhile a hi-rebound foam on the interior’s midsole provide added comfort. When measured from heel-to-toe, there is a slight 11mm drop to lessen the fatigue in the foot as well as aid in natural walking mechanics.

The RTW draws on and improves the outsole design to the Johnny Combat series footwear by having a full combat-focused rubber outsole with an over-molded synthetic heel for added protection. The lug design gives the sole a self-cleaning flex that helps ensure debris or rocks do not remain lodged.

The reinforced toe box is made from TPU (a type of thermoplastic with the same performance characteristics as steel toe inserts but lighters and non-conductive) and tapered to accommodate for a variety of environmental situations or conditions that the footwear may encounter.

The Viktos Range Trainer Waterproof boot comes in Coyote (featured) or Nightfall and available in sizes 6 through 15.

Product Evaluation Scores:

• Cost – Average (3/5): With its list price of $130, the Range Trainer Waterproof boot was made with a blend of materials and design that allows the end-user to perform in any urban or moderate field environment. There is an equal blend of ripstop nylon 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) by Salomon, the Moab 2 boot ($139.99) by Merrill, or the Raide 2 (Mid) boots ($109.95) by Bates. As such, the RTW 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 RTW 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 break in; but when it did, the RTW 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 a shock-resistant steyr foam lining on the outer edging that helped support and pad the foot bed, while preventing rolling of the ankle. The RTW 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 RTW 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 RTW held a good level of durability while worn as an EDC and range boot given its tested environment (which included pavement, grass, loose rock, water and mud). By its design, the intent for the RTW was to serve as an urban EDC or moderate flat range boot, and as such the materials excelled in those settings. The rip-stop 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 padding and interior 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 TPU toe cap and heel took the brunt of abrasion but performed very well for a range environment in protecting the toe while giving the boot structure.
• Functionality – Good (4/5): Functionally, the RTW provided a good level of use for flat range movement, with a moderately loose surface (i.e. dirt and lose rock). The boot’s 6” throat and micro-venting helped to provide support to the ankle, while allowed for breathability to alleviate any sweating. The tread was similar to other trainer-style footwear by Viktos and other companies; with a flat “slick” sole, and a light tread design that offered a light self-cleaning lug design that kept moisture, small rocks, and debris from building up. It was noted however, that while mud did spread away from the toe and trusstic portion of the sole, it did fill the lug design (likely because of the flatter overall design and less aggressive tread as compared to those found on the Johnny Combat Ops). At no point did moisture penetrate the interior in light/moderate rain.
• Weight – Average (3/5): Each individual boot weighed in at 1.06 pounds (or 2.12 pounds for the size 11 pair) which is reasonable considering the volume of overall nylon material, TPU toe cap, and light lug design. In comparison to the market alternatives noted above; the XA Forces (Mid) boots (1.02 pounds 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. As a whole, the features and materials of the Range Trainer Waterproof boot by Viktos 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/range-trainer-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.

Nestled back in the upper potions of the Pacific Northwest, lies one of the more recognizable tactical and EDC belt makers on the market. Chris Calvert from Snake Eater Tactical (SET) has been producing some of the finest mission-driven belts for years. His recently upgraded SET War Belt offers one of the most secure, stable, and comfortable weapons/accessory platform available.

The SET War Belt is a custom-cut belt that comprises a three-part system; it includes an inner belt, mid-belt, and outer belt.

• 1^st Belt (Inner Belt) – This belt is cut from a single layer of 16oz. Hypalon, then stitched with 1.5” wide (female) hook-and-loop strip along the entire outer-facing side. This inner belt is intended to be worn through the beltloops, and has a thumb loop on one end to help tighten it while you use the hook-and-loop (male) belt-keeper on the other to hold the overall belt in place. The Hypalon material facing the body offers a tremendous grip against fabric.

• 2^nd Belt (Mid-Belt) – The second belt is the larger, padded portion to the SET War Belt and consists of ¼” closed-foam, cell padding with a heavy-duty mesh covering for ventilation, buoyancy, and drying. The pad has one full length of 1.5” (male) hook-and-loop on one side, and 1.5” (female) hook-and-loop on the other. Reinforced stitching is added in a diamondback pattern along the length of the pad. The premise being that the two-mating hook-and-loop panels on the 1^st and 2^nd belt join to form the base of the system and offer a large area of padding.

• 3^rd Belt (Outer Belt) – The outer belt is where all the work gets done. It consists of an AustriAlpin D-Ring Cobra Buckle and a 2” channel for connecting carabiners, with the belt itself made from two layers of 1.75” Type 13 parachute webbing (with a tensile strength of 7,000 pounds). On the back is 1” (male) hook-and-loop material, stitched in 2.5” increments, resulting in a MOLLE-compatible pattern that allows the user to mount gear without interfering with the hook-and-loop integration.

Also provided for review were two Burro magazine pouches (two for pistol, and one for rifle). Each Burro is flared at the opening, made of an elastic material on the exterior, and has Hypalon lining on the inside and back of the exterior to give it positive retention. The Burro can expand to accommodate any single/double stacked magazine, or .223 rifle magazine (.308 Burro’s coming soon). Inside each Burro is a curved piece of kydex that aids in indexing the magazines.

Lastly, a nylon dump pouch was provided that uses the same mesh material as the mid-belt. It provides maximum drainage and drawstrings for carrying capacity that can be used to hold any number of range items (up to five AR magazines, brass, papers, pasters, flowers, etc.). The dump pouch features a strip of Type 13 material down the middle that gives the pouch an easy-access structure from the top.

The SET War Belt and Burro pouches come in six different colors; Ranger Green (featured), two variants of A-TACS, Black, Coyote Brown, and Multicam. Sizing instructions for the custom belt cut are provided on the website.

Product Evaluation Scores:

• Cost – Good (4/5): At $183.00 for the SET War Belt, $25-$28 per Burro, and $45 for the dump pouch, the cost of the system reflects the high-quality craftsmanship and materials used. Between the nylon, Hypalon, and Cobra buckle there are a lot of unique and quality materials at play that are seldom offered elsewhere. In comparison to the market, the cost of the belt and pouches are equally comparable to other American custom manufacturers who emphasize direct, hands-on manufacturing over industrial or overseas mass-production means.
• Comfort – Excellent (5/5): The flexibility of the overall belt, combined with the width of the mid-belt padding makes for an extremely comfortable system. The draw from the Burro is smooth, and the kydex makes for positive retention regardless of magazine type. Re-inserting magazines is easy and smooth thanks to the oversized flare at each opening.
• Durability – Excellent (5/5): It’s difficult to judge the long-term durability of the belt and components. With reinforced stitching, X-patterns, and bartack—the Type 13 belt and Cobra buckle are most likely to outlast all other the accessories, and will handle most heavy usage you throw at it. In Google searches some folks have tested the system on the range or in general use for over a year with no stated adverse effects. Snake Eater does offer separate purchase of the inner Hypalon or padded belt should those wear out.
• Functionality – Good (4/5): The functionality of the SET War Belt is without question as the MOLLE-compatible slots on the inside of the belt allow for full customization of any holster or accessory. You can even add a Burro on top of the dump pouch to save space on the belt, or for an additional magazine. The oversized mid-belt pad helps ensure that the body is not pinched against the belt when bending, or by other equipment. The three-layered system also is extremely rock solid and does not afford any movement in the belt or pouches itself. If you want to reconfigure the belt or add accessories, you do need to break the belt down. In truth, the only negative is more aesthetic as the sleeve-like Burros have a somewhat lackluster appearance, but this did not play a factor into evaluating them for function.
• Weight – Good (4/5): At 1.7 pounds overall, the three-part SET War Belt is very lightweight thanks in part to the overall materials, and this comes in under the weight of other notable quality belt manufacturers. Burros weigh 1-2 ounces each (depending on pistol or rifle) and the dump pouch weighs 4 ounces. Taken into context of ounces equal pounds, pounds equal pain and the SET War Belt is at less weight than most complete systems on the market so long-term wear of the system will not be as painful as others.

Overall Rating – Very Good (22/25)

Product Link: https://www.snakeeatertactical.com/product/set-war-belt-3-part-system-copy/

I am reviewing this product as a courtesy to the manufacturer and via STL Shooting Enthusiasts, so that I can evaluate it and provide my honest feedback. I am not bound by any written, verbal, or implied contract to give positive reviews. All views are my own, and based off my personal experience with the product.

The views and opinions expressed on this website are solely those of the author. The views and opinions do not necessarily represent those of the administrative staff, and/or any/all contributors to this site.