High Ground Media, LLC

Offering their own rigid competition belt and magazine holsters, Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear has several combination packages that can outfit any shooter for IDPA or USPSA matches. These packages vary between the Combo Rig N3 and more advanced setups.

The Combo Rig N3 is the base combination package offered by Black Scorpion that includes the new Pro Heavy-Duty Competition Belt and four Storm Grand Master magazine holsters. The belt is similar to other dedicated competition belt styles in that it is a two-belt system consisting of a rigid outer belt and a soft nylon inner belt.

The outer belt is made with a 5mm High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) core that gives shooters a rigid platform by which to hang pouches or accessories. The inside is lined with (male) hook-and-loop to join to the corresponding field on the inner belt to provide a solid platform on which to hang holsters and accessories. Accompanying the outer belt is a logoized belt keeper.

The inner belt is made from 2mm HDPE to give a balance between a flexible belt with some rigidity by which shooters can use for regular wear during a day on the range, or in-between stages. The outside is lined with (female) hook-and-loop that joins with the corresponding field on the outer belt.

Intended for right-hand shooters, and accompanying the Pro Heavy-Duty Competition Belt in the N3 package, are four Storm Grand Master magazine holsters. They are available in single or double-stack versions and made from a durable polymer molding. Hardware in the holsters are stainless steel for added strength, and the angle of the holster can be 360-degree customizable. Tension on each magazine can be adjusted with the newly designed spring system for improved release during the draw.

Belt Specifications:

• M (32″ to 34″)
• L (34″ to 36″)
• XL (38″ to 40″)
• XXL (42″ to 44″)

The Black Scorpion Combo Rig N3 only comes in Black, and has a lifetime warranty. Also featured is a Apparition kydex holster by Spectre Holsters, but not considered in part of this review.

Product Evaluation Scores:

• Cost – Excellent (5/5): Currently priced at $139.99, the Combo N3 package is still significantly priced below what each individual item would cost (belt-$47.99, mag holster $34.99/ea.) from Black Scorpion so there is immediate cost savings. However, in comparison to other vendors offering a similar setup, such as by Double Alpha ($170, holster dependent), Black Scorpion is still a better value for a full setup. Even when considered just as its base components, the belt alone is still under the price of its competitors, such as Double Alpha’s Premium Belt ($54), the CR “Speed” Belt ($49) from Shooter’s Connection, or Tuff Product’s Surefit Competition Belt ($49).
• Comfort – Good (4/5): As a whole, the two-part system made wearing a pistol and magazines very comfortable. The rigid HDPE core of the outer belt supported a large percentage of the overall weight with/without fully-loaded magazines, while the hook-and-loop sections between the inner and outer belts helped ensure no excessive movement of attached items. Worn as just a general use belt, the inner belt was flexible enough to be both comfortable and functionable. The adjustable springs and hardware to the Storm magazine holsters made each draw very smooth and consistent, and allowed for customized tension to each magazine at any location around the belt.
• Durability – Good (4/5): In comparison to its competitors, the Pro Heavy-Duty Competition Belt has important elements in durability that others did not. Right out of the box there were no loose/excessive threads, and the amount of material along the outer belt edge was even and noticeably larger in surface area than other competition belts. This translates to longer use in the repetitive action of peeling the outer belt off of the inner belt, and less chance of separation between the belts and hook-and-loop sections. While the Storm magazine holsters themselves were made from a high-density polymer, it is likely the hardware or threads could be the weakest point in the design over the long-term, and given continual use. It would be nice if the vendor offered a replacement parts kit for the hardware or the front/back plate to further support its overall product line in the event of cross-threading.
• Functionality – Average (3/5): Overall the functionality of the Pro Heavy-Duty Competition Belt was pretty straightforward. The two-part system held enough rigidity to maintain its shape, with minimal warping (despite the weight of loaded magazines and holstered weapon). The Storm holsters themselves provided a great deal of functionality enabling the approach angle for the draw to be 360-degree customizable. The one-piece belt loop of the Storm holsters were very tight in relation to threading the outer belt through them, resulting in some separation of the hook-and-loop/thread at the outer belt’s tip. It remained uncertain if prolonged usage would result in further separation, or if the overall stitching will hold. It was noted that other Black Scorpion magazine holsters allowed for full disassembly/reassembly directly onto the belt, which would have avoided the issue on the Storm holsters.
• Weight – Average (3/5): At approximately 2.15 pounds total, the overall Combo Rig N3 was amazingly light considering the amount of materials. The use of the polymer core in the outer belt added some weight, but not significantly more than other market alternatives. The bulk of the weight stems from the Storm magazine holsters, which weighed approximately 5 ounces (without magazine) each. In comparison, the weight of the Combo Rig N3 was similar to that of other setups, such as a Double Alpha belt with Racer magazine pouches (approx. 2 pounds).

Overall Rating – Above Average (19/25)

Product Link: https://www.blackscorpiongear.com/collections/combination-sets/products/combo-rig-n3-1-competition-belt-4-pouches-storm-grand-master

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

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

 

Designed by the West Coast Frogmen over at Trident Tactical Technical (T3), the Geronimo 2 Plate Carrier is an evolution over its predecessor in that it offers T3’s flexibility and comfort, while improving on the previous generation’s functionality. Combined with traditional fabrics and hardware, the plate carrier can be used in practical, competitive, or professional roles for long-term durability regardless of the environment.

Introduced in 2015, the Geronimo 2 (G2) is designed as a low-profile plate carrier with extensive MOLLE/PALS webbing for increased functionality with the mission/task at hand. This makes it ideal for concealed situations, or as a base kit on which to add desired packs, pouches, or holsters.

Made from 500D, solution-dyed Cordura the front and rear carriers accommodate full-sized SAPI/ESAPI/AR500 plates or any soft armor (sold separately). Both carriers have (female) hook-and-loop fields at the top for identification or morale patches, as well as extensive vertical and horizontal MOLLE/PALS webbing.

The front carrier has a kangaroo pouch stitched on top of the traditional flap securing the front cummerbund. The interior of the kangaroo pouch is lined with hook-and-loop fields that can be used in conjunction with the provided removable rifle magazine pouches (that accommodate three 5.56 magazines or two 7.62), or secures the pouch to allow for mounting of a preferred chest harness or other pouches.

The rear of the carrier has a drag handle made from SCUBA webbing that is secured via hook-and-loop to the top of the carrier itself when not in use.

The backpanel of the G2’s front and back carriers feature closed-air foam padding for improved comfort, as well as a 4” band of (female) hook-and-loop for mounting lower plate carrier accessories (not included). The attached hook-and-loop flap inside the front/back carriers enable for ballistic plates, regardless of sizing, to be securely held.

The G2’s cummerbund system involves the traditional two-part banded system with interwoven shock cord on the rear to adjust spacing, with the rear carrier’s overlapping hook-and-loop panel securing it.

The front of the cummerbund is secured under the front carrier’s overlapping hook-and-loop panel.

The cummerbund’s sides have pouches for side plate armor, three extra rifle magazines per side, and multi-purpose pouches that can double as a pistol holster or for single/dual radios.

For shoulder straps, the G2 has wide Hypalon bands anchored into the front/back carriers via metal hardware, which are themselves anchored with reverse/bartack stitching. Each strap is wrapped in removable shoulder pads that are secured by hook-and-loop.

Specifications:

• Small……For individuals circa 5’9”, 140 pounds, 32” belt
• Medium…For individuals circa 5’10”, 155 pounds, 34” belt
• Large…….For individuals circa 6’, 190 pounds, 36” belt
• XLarge….For individuals 6’3”, 220 pounds, 38” belt

The G2 is available in OD Green (featured), Black, Coyote Tan, Multicam, Desert Digital, and ABU Tiger.

Product Evaluation Scores:

• Cost – Good (4/5): At $315.99 the G2 is an all-inclusive plate carrier (unlike many other designs that do not include magazine holsters) that gives its user the functionality to use it immediately. While it does not include are newer quick-release or tube buckles, cummerbund styles, or other hardware found in more recent plate carrier designs, such as by First Spear’s Strandhogg Plate Carrier ($486), it did make up for that by capitalizing on the materials to be a solid system. For comparison, alternatives to the G2 would be Shellback Tactical’s Banshee 2.0 ($325), Mayflower’s Assault Plate Carrier ($259), and Spartan Armor’s Leonidas Plate Carrier ($229). Again, it should be noted that in all these market alternatives, none featured an included magazine and sidearm holster system that the G2 does.
• Comfort – Excellent (5/5): In comparison to the market, the G2 was very comfortable—one of the most comfortable tested to date in fact. Weather it was the connection between the shoulders and front plate carrier, or the padding itself, shouldering a carbine was very comfortable and the buttstock easily found the shoulder pocket. Often other vendors overlook that element in design and carriers/plates will actually hinder proper buttstock placement. The adjustability of the cummerbund ensured proper fitting to the point it was tested during regular 2 mile runs without any adverse effect to comfort. During stressor drills (sprints/pushups) at the range, the G2 neither shifted nor limited freedom of movement.
• Durability – Excellent (5/5): Throughout the G2, extensive bartack/reverse stitching was evident at all key stress points to include; all MOLLE/PALS webbing, carrier/shoulder connections, and cummerbund. These factors, and the use of 500D Cordura ensured the G2 had a high degree of abrasion resistance and longevity. A lot of thought went into reinforcement of the carrier and regardless of plates used (we ran both AR500 steel and UHMWPE plates), the G2’s hook-and-loop held the varying sized ballistic plates in place. All this gave the G2 high marks for durability.
• Functionality – Average (3/5): From a functional aspect, the G2 is a bit of a legacy design, one with a proven field record. Without any of the newer quick disconnects at the shoulders or cummerbund it was difficult to doff the plate carrier quickly, such as in an emergency situation. Otherwise the included function of the cummerbund’s radio/pistol holsters, and the included holsters to accept both 5.56 or 7.62 magazines were bonuses over other market competitors (though the pistol had some play in it). The cummerbund was comparable to other legacy designs, and offered the user the ability to customize the amount of tension to the torso. The backpanel design and method in which the G2 secured ballistic plates were a welcome change over others that tuck the securing flap up inside the carrier without any pull tab, sometimes making it difficult to access. A potential alternative for T3 to consider is making the exterior of the kangaroo pouch (female) hook-and-loop rather than MOLLE/PALS webbing to accommodate an increasing number of chest rigs that are similarly designed, such as the D3CRX by Haley Strategic or Spiritus Systems. It may also be of interest for T3 to consider laser-cut nylon over the traditional MOLLE/PALS webbing to cut down on weight while having minimal loss to function or durability.
• Weight – Average (3/5): At 3.0 pounds (without plates) the G2’s weight is to be expected given the quantity of 500D Cordura material involved. It also places it on par with market alternatives that use a similar design. The Banshee comes in at 3.2 pounds, the Leonidas is 2.3 pounds, and the Mayflower APC is 1.9 pounds. As the market has moved to more minimalist designs in recent years, newer materials like laser-cut nylon, polymer nylon, and other lightweight hardware have kept the MOLLE/PALS functionality while drastically reducing the weight of plate carriers in general. As such this put the G2 at a disadvantage given its legacy design.

Overall Rating – Good (20/25)

Product Link: https://www.t3gear.com/t3-geronimo-2-g2-plate-carrier/

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 2020, the WILD1 by Inforce is the company’s newest pistol light that replaced the previous APL polymer body design. The Weapon Integrated Lighting Device1 (WILD1) includes improved lumen output, and an all-aluminum body for medium handguns and sub-compacts.

Made from an overall body of 6061-T6 aluminum with Type III mil-spec anodized finish, the WILD1 features a 500 lumen output.

The aluminum body offers a compact, streamline design with an integrated, dual thumb-paddle switch module.

The 500 lumen WILD1 offers the same functionality as past Inforce WMLs, with a steady ON/OFF operation. The LED bulb technology allows the WML’s single Lithium CR123A power source to have a two hour continual runtime, while the light’s bezel features a ¼ turn lockout mode that allows for safe travel/storage of the light. In addition, rubberized gaskets ensure the WILD1 is waterproof up to 66ft.

The WILD1 includes an integrated picatinny rail clamp as part of the chassis that engages with any MIL-STD 1913 rail without tools.

The WILD1 has an overall dimension of 2.53” in length with a bezel of 0.95” in diameter.

The Inforce WILD1 is only available in Black (featured).

Product Evaluation Scores:

• Cost – Average (3/5): With its list MSRP of $139.99, the WILD1 is readily found on Inforce’s website, and on various second-party websites (such as on Amazon) in which there is risk of counterfeits). The WILD1 provides an all-aluminum weapon light with 500 lumens in a sleek, modern design that is easily mounted to any standard 1913 rail. Market alternatives to the WILD1 include Streamlight’s TLR-7 ($140 @ 500 lumens), Surefire’s X300 ($329 @ 1000 lumens), or Surefire’s Mini Scoutlight Pro ($299 @ 500 lumens). Obviously higher lumen weapon lights exist; however, this comparison demonstrates that for its cost, the Inforce WILD1 is appropriately (or of average) priced for its emissive output and design/materials.
• Comfort – Good (4/5): From a comfort aspect, the Inforce WILD1 mounted to the standard MIL-STD 1913 picatinny rail easily, and thus with its fixed rear-facing paddle switch placed comfortably within reach of the support hand. The switch itself did have a slightly tangible and audible click to it denoting activation, and the serrated surface gave a good recognizable texture on the paddles. The 500 lumen output was a good level of light intensity for indoor use, as its brightness reflecting off interior walls did not become blinding (as could be an issue with high lumen output weapon lights) nor flood the space. Outdoors the 500 lumen rapidly dissipated beyond 20 yards. One nice aspect from a comfort view was the mounting screw was secured using a common flathead screwdriver, and didn’t necessitate a specialty key. Furthermore, the battery was accessed from the front of the light through the bezel, not necessitating removal of the light from the handgun to perform.
• Durability – Good (4/5): Inforce is well-known for its former APL polymer-based handgun WML chassis. However, the WILD1 was an upgrade from the APL in that the design shifted to an all-aluminum chassis (with stainless steel mounting pin) and now adds increased strength and durability to the overall unit (a longstanding criticism to the previous design). Over the course of evaluation, the WILD1 was subjected to a number of range iterations over specific courses of fire, on a 9mm handgun, and struck by a fully loaded AR magazine 10 times each side, on the lens housing, and switch paddles. Then the unit was removed and drop tested 10 times on finished concrete. In all scenarios the housing and bezel received the most impact (due probably to balance of the unit while falling) with observable surface marring noted – none of which penetrated into the chassis or compromised the unit. The WILD1 continued to function as intended, with a consistent light output that did not flicker or falter after testing was completed.
• Functionality – Average (3/5): From a functional aspect, the WILD1 performed as intended and the light correctly activated in either the momentary or continual ON setting (no strobe feature was one limiting aspect in terms of function to other market alternatives). The audible and tangible switch activation did provide a good non-visual que of activation, and the serrated surface did provide sufficient texture to press the thumb into for positive control. The lockout control and battery access at the bezel had added improvements over the older APL design and could be performed without removing the light from the firearm. In field trials, the WILD1 gave a focused and bright center hotspot (where the candela was most concentrated), with an appropriate (or average) amount of lux (or spillage) to the definable area around it. Internet research found that in February 2022, YouTube user ‘Werkz Holster’ posted an online video using a calibrated photonic device to measure the light output of the WILD1, and found the actual measurable output of the device was under the advertised output of 500 lumen. The user went on to state this could possibly be the result of a number of factors such as emitter advertisement that went unverified, battery state, or design.
• Weight – Average (3/5): Weighing in at just 3.0 ounces (with battery) for the 500 lumens module, the WILD1 lends its relative light weight to its aluminum chassis design comparable to other market alternatives utilizing the same material. This weight felt neither off-balancing nor bulky, on the end of the firearm, or while it was cycling during the firing process. In comparison, the alternatives listed to the WILD1’s role or lumen output include the Streamlight TLR-7 (2.4 ounces), Surefire’s X300 (4.1 ounces), or Surefire’s Mini Scoutlight Pro (4.1 ounces). This all reflects that the weight of the WILD1 is appropriate (or average) amid the market for similar weapon lights that utilize the same materials, and have similar roles or lumen output.

Overall Rating – Average (17/25)

Product Link: https://inforce-mil.com/products/handgun-lights/wild-1/

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.