High Ground Media, LLC

Introduced circa 2014, the 36” Double Rifle Tac Assault Case by Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear gives the shooter peace of mind knowing their rifles and accessories are encased in a sleek, lightweight soft case.

Built from extremely rugged 1000D nylon, the Tac Assault measures 36.25″ (L) x 12″ (H) x 3.5″ (W) and offers room for two full-sized rifles and extensive MOLLE throughout for expanded functionality.

Exterior

On the front, the Tac Assault has a sleek, almost minimalist accessory pocket measuring 28” (L) x 11.5” (H). Its exterior pocket is secured by SBS zippers and has full MOLLE webbing across the face. On the interior are two hook-and-loop secured sleeves for pistols, papers, or targets on top of which are two additional MOLLE fields to add mountable accessories.

The nylon used to frame two compression straps employ UTX-Flex buckles, and also reinforce two carrying handles. The carrying handles themselves are folded and stitched for increased strength, with one having an attached hook-and-loop closure that can be used to join both handles together.

The rear of the Tac Assault is heavily padded to convert the rifle case into a backpack carry. Two adjustable shoulder straps run nearly the full length of the backpanel and are themselves thickly padded.

Interior

Upon opening the main compartment to the Tac Assault via the zipper, the clamshell opens to reveal dual rifle compartments. Lining the outer edge is a hard-plastic molding encased in nylon that serves to keep both compartments separated when closed, and gives the case its overall rigidity.

Each side features wedge-style ends wherein the stock and muzzle are tucked into and provide the weapon security and stability when stored. Dual 2” hook-and-loop straps further secure the firearm from any excessive movement.

Dividing each storage space is a 29” (L) x 10” (H) center dividing pad to ensure both weapons remain separated.

Specifications:

• Water resistant 1000D nylon
• SBS® zippers
• UTX-Flex Buckles

The Tac Assault case overall measures 36.25″ (L) x 12″ (H) x 3.5″ (W) and is only available in Black.

Product Evaluation Scores:

• Cost – Good (4/5): In comparison, the Tac Assault rifle case is $113.99 whereas other rifle cases on the market range in price point, such as by Savior Equipment ($59.95), Condor ($83), Draco ($83), and Voodoo Tactical ($125). While the Tac Assault is on the upper scale of cost, that higher cost is directly attributed to both the quality of its 1000D nylon (cheaper brands use lower denier material) and extensive padding—something not shared by lower cost double rifle cases. While somewhat expensive, the cost for the quality of the item is in good standing.
• Comfort – Good (4/5): The extensive padding on all sides of the Tac Assault rifle case and shoulder straps made for an extremely comfortable case when worn across the back. The nylon itself was soft and well stitched so as to avoid hard corners. Sliding rifles in and out of the clamshell storage compartment was smooth with no hang ups. The carrying handle was a bit uncomfortable, even with the closure, in the hand when the case was fully loaded simply because of the narrow material bearing the weight. This could be easily resolved by the vendor by either adding padding to the closure or making the carrying handles thicker.
• Durability – Excellent (5/5): Given that the entire Tac Assault rifle case is made from 1000D nylon, has a rigid molding to give it added stability and strength, the whole product was amazingly durable. Regular use to, on, and off the range included transporting the case in the back of a truckbed with textured liner and although scuff marks were readily identified (due to the color) no stitching was damaged. Throughout the case there was extensive X-style and bartack stitching that reinforced the overall stress points. The likelihood of long-term wear is minimal assuming the user does not overload or misuse the nylon, which will almost certainly outlast any of the hardware.
• Functionality – Good (4/5): Although using a simplified clamshell design, the Tac Assault case had a large degree of flexibility in its exterior MOLLE webbing to be customized as needed. The exterior accessory pocket itself had a full three-sided zipper so the pocket would lay completely flat when open, thus giving the shooter a good surface to work on when either cleaning firearms, or loading magazines. Otherwise the exterior of the accessory pocket was flush and didn’t have a lot of the large, bulk exterior pockets that are so common on most soft cases. The wedge-style sleeves on the interior provided solid security for rifles to be stored, and the included hook-and-loop straps ensured rifles didn’t slide or move unnecessarily. A noted negative in the rifle case’s function was the shoulder straps on the backpanel were a bit awkward when not in use, with no way to either remove them or store then flat against the case.
• Weight – Average (3/5): At 5.8 pounds the Tac Assault case is only slightly lighter than those market alternatives noted above due to its sleek exterior and durable materials. The Savior 36” double rifle case weighs 5.10 pounds whereas the similar Condor and Draco 36” double rifle cases weighs approximately 6 pounds each, and the Draco is approximately 8 pounds. The weight is directly tied to the denier and amount of nylon to construct the bag, thus giving the Tac Assault case an average weight within the market.

Overall Rating – Good (20/25)

Product Link: https://www.blackscorpiongear.com/collections/range-bags/products/double-rifle-36-tac-assault

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.

 

Recently developed by Trident Tactical Technical (T3) Gear as a new means to improve user comfort while wearing heavy plate carriers, the Python Belt brings together traditional belt design with a new means of weight distribution.

Made from an overall 500D solution-dyed Cordura, the Python Belt is a two-part system that involves a semi-rigid duty belt and a padded outer belt.

The inner duty belt is 1.75” wide and made from Type 13 parachute webbing. It is secured using a 2” Raptor Buckle from American Direct Fabrication (ADF). While the Type 13 belt has a tensile strength of 7,000 pounds, the Raptor Buckle is made from 7075 Aluminum and has a tensile strength of 2,000 pounds. The buckle also meets NFPA 1983 certification for safety and MIL-STD-810F for corrosion resistance. Included in the inner duty belt is a tie-in point for attaching carabiner clips or other retention accessories.

The outer padded belt is where the new design and weight distribution come into play. It uses a closed-cell foam pad enclosed in a 500D Cordura sleeve that allows the inner duty belt to pass through a channel the length of the belt. This channel is comprised of reinforced panels with two bands of MOLLE webbing on each, and are segmented to allow the belt to either weave over, or under them. This design aspect allows for full customization of pouches, holsters, and other gear.

Along the interior of the outer padded belt is a continuous band of hook-and-loop (female) material that will be used in conjunction with an additional belt (released separately soon) that is run through the trousers’ belt loops for added security and rapid donning.

But the unique aspect to the Python belt is its foam band that runs along the top edge, of the outer padded belt. This foam is approximately 2” wide, and enclosed in a nylon sleeve with an adjustment cord through it with cinch tabs.

What Does It Do?

What this padded design aspect accomplishes is something found nowhere else currently on any belt. When used in conjunction with a plate carrier or vest, the smart design fills the intervening space between the belt and the bottom of the carrier. Its padded tube supports the carrier, while allowing the user to decide on distributing the carrier’s weight to the user’s shoulders or hip and attain the greatest level of comfort and use.

Specifications:

• Small:…………28″ outer belt w/12 MOLLE rows
• Medium:……..32″ outer belt w/16 MOLLE rows
• Large:…………36″ outer belt w/20 MOLLE rows
• Extra Large:..44″ outer belt w/24 MOLLE rows

The Python Belt is available in Multicam (featured), and in sizes Small through XLarge.

Editor’s Note: The Python Belt appears in this review with associated T3 pouches to evaluate it based on its performance as a field belt. The pouches do not influence the overall scoring of the belt itself.

Product Evaluation Scores:

• Cost – Excellent (5/5): At an opening cost of approximately $170 the Python Belt brings together traditional nylon materials with an innovative design to help provide added comfort to those wearing protective plates. The belt includes a two-part design to help users provide an immediate way to don a belt fit for any situation that accepts any MOLLE-compatible pouch or accessory.  In contrast, other comparative belt systems include the Padded AGB Sleeve w/Gun Belt ($185) by First Spear, the Sure-Grip (Slotted) Padded Belt w/Rigger Belt ($220), or Tactical Tailor’s Fight Light Battle Belt w/Riggers Belt ($260). But it should be noted none of these alternatives include the unique supportive tube design that helps mitigate some of the added weight of a plate carrier. As such, for its design and innovation, the Python Belt offers users an excellent price point.
• Comfort – Good (4/5): From a comfort aspect the Python did a very good job of remaining comfortable around the hips, even despite the added weight of a plate carrier. With its wide padded sleeve and tubular support system, the Python was able to broadly distribute the belt’s weight, and that of and pouches and a plate carrier evenly around the hips and alleviate some of the strain on the upper shoulders and back. This was mainly notable when standing, and thus would be ideal for those on sentry duty or have stationary/guard roles. While walking this support was still present, but to a lesser extent due to the rotation of the hips and back movement. The Raptor buckle provided a smooth and reliable function, while the inner duty belt was flexible enough so as not to be excessively rigid and contoured to the waist appropriately.
• Durability – Excellent (5/5): Extensive double-line threading, X-pattern, and bartack was noted throughout the Python belt at key stress points that added to its overall longevity. The specialized support tube was also encased in a Cordura nylon sleeve that ensured abrasion resistance encountered from plate carrier friction while in dynamic movements. The support tube even had plastic tubing and grommets to help ensure the system did not become compromised, but users should still exercise caution at over-tightening it. Elsewhere the inner belt, being made from Type 13 webbing, was very durable given its greater tensile strength that (combined with the Raptor buckle’s aluminum body) gave it a very strong inner/outer belt system.
• Functionality – Good (4/5): The key behind the Python’s overall function was its ability to reduce the dead load factor on the upper torso while wearing a fully loaded plate carrier. In evaluations the Python was worn in a variety of dynamic movements, walking, and static and determined that indeed the system did perform to mitigate that weight on the shoulders and upper/lower back. The extent of that offset varied depending on what the wearer was doing; with static/standing activity having the greatest level of transference, and running having the least. This would make the Python ideal for those who stand guard duty for extended periods. Perhaps the only notable recommendation for T3 to consider would be the inclusion of an elastic/rubberized retention band on the inner belt, as excess material easily let the Raptor buckle slide unnecessarily.
• Weight – Average (3/5): Weighing in at 21.1 ounces (9.7 ounces for inner belt, 11.4 for outer) the Python (Size Large) had an appropriate (or average) weight for the volume and qualities of the material involved. As more pouches were added, and the weight of a plate carrier resting on the support tube did as intended, the Python evenly distributed the weight around the hips and into the legs. This did avoid excess fatigue in the upper torso as is common to most plate carriers used in conjunction with minimalist or low-profile belts. In contrast, other similar belt systems like the Padded AGB Sleeve w/Gun Belt (17.8 ounces), the Sure-Grip (Slotted) Padded Belt w/Rigger Belt (18 ounces), or the Fight Light Battle Belt w/Riggers Belt (26.6 ounces) all illustrate that while the Python is near the upper range of weight, this is due to the use of traditional nylons that are typically heavier and gave the belt an appropriate (or average) scoring.

Overall Rating – Good (21/25)

Product Link: https://www.t3gear.com

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.

A case specifically designed to accommodate a carbine rifle, the Assault Rifle Case by Elite Survival is part of the original Assault Systems line of rifle cases. The Assault Rifle Case (ARC); Size 2, provides the user with a robust soft case by which to transport rifle and magazines without concern for loss or damage.

Exterior

Made from 1000D nylon, the ARC exterior includes four, double rifle magazine pouches and a triangular accessory pouch—both of which are secured via individual hook-and-loop flaps. Both sides also consist of heavy-duty, 1” thick foam padding to protect the contents.

Along the long-axis of the case, steel D-rings provide anchoring points on both ends to an adjustable 2” shoulder carry strap with pad. The strap itself is removable with its steel clip/hook hardware. Near the center of the long axis are two carry handles that can be joined via attached cuff and are anchored into the fabric of the case behind the magazine pouches. A full length zipper runs along the angled edge of the ARC and opens to reveal the interior storage space.

Interior

The interior storage space of the ARC has a clean, open space that fits any carbine-type rifle (to include WML and/or optic) with up to a 20” barrel. Heavy-duty, 1” thick foam padding runs the entire outer edge of the ARC’s interior for maximum protection. The storage space is secured via YKK zipper, that also has a protective band of padding to separate the interior space and enclosure hardware.

Specifications:

• 1000D nylon
• 1” thick foam padding on all sides
• YKK zippers
• Multiple sizes to fit any sized rifle

The Assault Systems line of rifle cases come in varying sizes, between 1 and 10 with overall lengths from 28” to 48”. The cases are available in Mulitcam (featured in select sizes), Black, Olive Drab, and Coyote.

Product Evaluation Scores:

• Cost – Average (3/5): At $104.95 the Assault Rifle Case is one of 10 in the Assault Systems lineup (pricing varies based on overall length and quantity of material used) and, like other packs from Elite Survival, made from thick 1000D nylon. It should be noted this sized bag is appropriately for SBRs or collapsed carbines with up 20” barrels. Comparable market alternatives include; the American Classic 32” Double Rifle Case ($53.99) or Patriot 35” Single Rifle Case ($29.95) by Savior Equipment, the Assault Rifle Case ($66) by American Mountain Supply, or the Rifle Bag ($159.95) by LaRue Tactical. It should be noted that less expensive soft cases generally involve lower denier nylon with lower abrasion resistance levels, or are made overseas where manufacturing costs can be lowered. Given that the ARC has some of the highest denier levels on the market, and is made entirely in the USA—while expensive—it is directly comparable and average to other soft cases in terms of overall cost. The consumer will need to weigh those factors against that cost.
• Comfort – Good (4/5): While made from 1000D nylon, the ARC was still soft and had no hard or sharp edges. The YKK zippers felt smooth and did not cross thread when it was closed/opened. The zipper pull and coils themselves were oversized and felt very comfortable. The padding on the shoulder strap was roughly ½” thick and felt comfortable on the shoulder, though it slid a little too easily. The carrying handles (joined together) felt comfortable in the hand and did not cut into the skin when the bag was fully loaded. However, the handles themselves needed more length as it was a tight fit to get the hand through. The hook-and-loop securing the magazine and accessory pouches provided a solid enclosure and at no point during handling allowed the contents to spill out.
• Durability – Excellent (5/5): Made entirely of 1000D nylon, the ARC was made from some of the most abrasion resistant material available. Double line stitching was used along the zipper material to strengthen it, and X-type stitching was noted to be anchoring the D-rings to the shoulder strap. The use of stainless steel for hardware was a nice additive for its strength, in a market increasingly turning to cheap plastic that cuts cost. One design aspect noted was the nylon bands for the carrying handles continue down the sides of the ARC thus ensuring it supported the entire weight of the contents and not just at the top.
• Functionality – Good (4/5): Very simplistic, the ARC supported carrying a single SBR easily. Users should note that while running a WLM mounted at the 3 or 9 o’clock position, the forward end of the case got pretty tight on the zipper. It was obvious the ARC was a case intended for a “slick” carbine with minimal rail accessories. There was adequate clearance around the optic (in this case a Vortex red dot). One noted area of improvement for Elite Survival would be to extend the hook-and-loop fields for the magazine pouches. When loaded with two magazines per pouch, getting a full connection between the fields was pretty tight. The alternative for improvement would be to extend the flap slightly to accommodate a slightly longer reach. Otherwise the ARC had thick foam padding on all sides and completely protected the rifle within.
• Weight – Excellent (5/5): Tipping in at 2.8 pounds, the ARC was extremely lightweight despite its heavier 1000D nylon. By angling the front half of the case, Elite Survival’s ARC design allowed the case to cut non-essential space that was otherwise lost in other generalized designs. In comparison; the American Classic (6 pounds) and Patriot (5 pounds), and Mountain Supply’s Assault Rifle Case (8 pounds) all demonstrate how generalized, one-size-fits-all rifle cases utilize more material and thus weigh more regardless of denier rated nylon. By focusing its ARC design to specifically meet the needs of the rifle, Elite Survival was able to minimize weight while still offering complete protection for a rifle and its accessories.

Overall Rating – Good (21/25)

Product Link: https://www.elitesurvival.com/rifle-cases/assault-systems-assault-rifle-cases-by-elite/

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.