High Ground Media, LLC

Transporting all your range gear can often necessitate a case or bag big and tough enough for all the essentials. The Gen 3 Kit Bag from T3 Gear allows a voluminous, enclosed space for the end-user to store and transport all their mission essentials.

Made from robust 500D Cordura nylon, the Kit Bag is designed as a large, rectangular storage bag measuring 23” (L) x 18” (H) x 11” (W) that can easily fit full tactical kit, a dedicated helmet bag similar to T3’s Padded Helmet Case, and night vision case or other accessories.

Exterior

The exterior of the Kit Bag is a minimalist unstructured bag rectangular in design, with a flip-top lid secured by a dual-shuttle oversized zipper.

At the front, the Kit Bag is sleek and free of features to avoid accidentally snagging the Kit Bag on other items, equipment, or vehicles. The rear of the Kit Bag is likewise sleek and unremarkable, but has reinforced hardware (polymer D rings and slide adjustors) at the top and bottom for attaching shoulder straps (sold separately) if necessary.

The thick, 2” wide, nylon webbing handles run continually from the front, support the bottom of the bag, and up the rear to provide maximum support while being transported. A padded cuff (secured by hook-and-loop) helps secure the handles together while providing comfort while hand carried.

Both sides of the Kit Bag have 10” wide sleeve pockets for stowing any documents or small accessories as needed. In addition, both sides have reinforced hardware (polymer D-rings) for attaching the removable shoulder strap (via slide release buckle).

At the top, the Kit Bag is designed to be stored vertically and the flip-top itself has a 23” diagonal, quick-access zipper that grants the end-user immediate access into the main storage compartment.

Interior

The interior of the Kit Bag is accessed via oversized zipper (with dual paracord pull-tab shuttles) and that runs along three sides to allow for the flip-top to open completely.

Around three sides of the Kit Bag’s interior are three bands of 3” wide hook-and-loop (female) material for attaching patches, pouches, or other items using similar attachment methods.

The Gen 3 Kit Bag is available in Multicam (featured), Black Coyote, Ranger Green, and Multicam Black.

Product Evaluation Scores:

• Cost – Average (3/5): With its MSRP of $159.99, the Gen 3 Kit Bag is a large soft case for storing and transporting all of your mission essentials and/or other gear as needed. With its 500D Cardura nylon, reinforcement webbing, and oversized zippers, the Kit Bag has the storage capacity and strength of many civilian hard cases without all the excess bulk. In contrast, similar market “kit” bags would include the Enhanced Kit Bag ($204.99) from RE Factor Tactical, the Rush LBD Lima Bag ($125) from 5.11, and the Huron Armor Carry Bag ($109.95) from TYR Tactical. After that the market gets into structured rolling duffle/storage bags, such as the Rolling Locker Bag ($560) from SOTech Tactical, at considerably higher price points due to their integrated frame and materials. Considering size, design, and materials used, the Kit Bag is appropriately (or of average) price for the market and its competitors.
• Comfort – Average (3/5): From a comfort aspect, the Kit Bag (empty) had the appropriate measures necessary to ensure full storage of mission essentials, while still being appropriately (or of average) comfort in transporting the overall bag. The Kit Bag did include a removable shoulder strap but it was unpadded, so using this method of transport was really intended only for short-term carriage—and under full load became fatiguing after short distance/time. It would have been preferred had T3 also included shoulder carrying straps (since the Kit Bag comes with associated hardware for attaching them) should they prove necessary for the end-user. Elsewhere, the padded nylon cuff attached to the carrying handle not only helped join both sides, but aided in making the handle-carry method more comfortable with its wider surface area for the hand. The zipper, while not outwardly a YKK-branded one, still functioned smoothly and did not bend nor cross-feed. The zipper enclosure line opened along three sides of the lid, thus it allowed for full access to the contents and full reach of the interior.
• Durability – Excellent (5/5): The durability of the Kit Bag lent itself to T3 Gear’s choice of using 500D Cordura nylon as the principle material throughout the entire bag. This material choice is common amid the tactical market, and gave the Kit Bag itself an appropriate (or average) level of abrasion resistance against gear or other hard-edge items that were otherwise thrown into the storage container with it. The paracord pull-tabs ensured a smooth pull on the oversized dual shuttles and that the zipper line itself wasn’t over-strained. There was extensive bartack, X-pattern, and double-line stitching noted throughout the bag at all stress points along the zipper, anchoring the carrying handles, and securing the internal pockets/hook-and-loop.
• Functionality – Good (4/5): Functionally, the Kit Bag did a good job of doing as intended, meaning it was an unstructured, oversized bag for securing mission essential gear and kit. This gave it the intentional benefit that (when not in use) the Kit Bag could also be folded up easily and stored in a reasonably small space. There was no means of organizing or securing items to the interior (such as removable dividers), so it was an all-or-nothing storage bag. The hook-and-loop bands on the interior were good for adding attachment pouches, placards, or other associated items (not included) using corresponding attachment material, but that was the extent of internal organization. But the extensive reinforcement throughout the bag meant that it was more than capable of storing some of the heaviest pieces of gear and kit possible.
• Weight – Good (4/5): Weighing in at 2.7 pounds, the Kit Bag had no internal frame or other materials other than its corresponding 500D Cordura and supportive nylon webbing. There is little in terms of support for carrying the Kit bag aside from the removable shoulder strap and carrying handles, so much of the weight to any contents in the Kit Bag will be handled accordingly. Consumers should not that for the volume, the Kit Bag can become just as heavy or heavier than a fully loaded Pelican case. But for the overall size of the product and reinforcement, the weight of the Kit Bag was good for what was included. In contrast the Enhanced Kit Bag (5.5 pounds) from RE Factor Tactical, the Rush LBD Lima Bag (3.0 pounds) from 5.11, and the Huron Armor Carry Bag (1.7 pounds) from TYR Tactical all support the position that for its design and materials, the T3 Gear Gen 3 Kit Bag is of a good overall weight amid the market.

Overall Rating – Above Average (19/25)

Product Link: https://www.t3gear.com/t3-kit-bag-gen-3/

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.

Debuted at SHOT Show 2020, the TLR-9 and TLR RM 2 by Streamlight share the same body housing design, core materials, and performance, but it’s what separates the two that makes them uniquely different. With variance in the tail cap switch assembly, the user has the unique advantage of opting between either a new full-sized pistol weapon light, or long gun light with pressure switch. Both offer Streamlight’s 1,000 lumen output and affordability.

TLR-9 Weaponlight

Fully-length in design, The TLR-9 is an extension of other compact Streamlight designs in that it is specifically intended to mount to full-size (5” barrel) handguns with an associated picatinny rail. This includes many 1911s, competition, or targeting guns.

Made from a 3.87” body consisting of 6000 Series aircraft-grade aluminum, the housing is intended to be shock resistant against heavy usage.

Much like the TLR-8 FLEX, the 9 has an interchangeable, ambidextrous switch module that includes a high, and low pressure pad to accommodate a wide variety of shooting styles with either a continual ON or momentary. The switch module also allows the user to program the TRL-9 between continual ON and STROBE (if activated) by double tapping either switch within a ¼ second.

The custom light optic produces 1,000 lumens (or 10,00 candela) in a narrow beam with peripheral illumination that reaches 200 meters before dispersal. In front of the optic, the TLR-9 glass is a Borofloat high temperature glass designed to have a high degree of heat and impact/abrasion resistance.

The TLR-9 is powered by two CR123 lithium batteries that provide the light an average 1.5 hours of continual runtime, or 3 hours on continuous strobe. The battery compartment is sealed via rubberized gasket to avoid penetration of moisture. A special design feature of the TLR-9 includes the same “Safe ON/OFF” design (built into the lens cap) similar to other Streamlight WMLs that prevents accidental activation.

A series of different mounting keys are included with the TLR-9 that provides compatibility across a wide variety of handgun platforms.

With an overall measurement of 3.87” (L) x 1.18” (W) x 1.27” (H) and an operating range between -40 degrees Fahrenheit, to 120 degrees. It is rated IPX7 and sealed against moisture thanks to a rubber gasket and enclosed housing to provide waterproofing.

Product Link: https://www.streamlight.com/en/products/detail/index/tlr-9

TLR Rail Mount 2

Similar to the TLR-9, the TLR Rail Mount (RM) 2 is a full-length weapon-mounted light design. The RM 2 is specifically intended to mount to rifles using an associated picatinny rail on the handguard. This application includes many AR-15s and other modern sporting rifles.

Made from a 3.20” body consisting of 6000 Series aircraft-grade aluminum, the housing is intended to be shock resistant against heavy usage.

Unlike the TRL-9, the RM 2 has a fixed tail switch module, which includes a rubberized push button on the top, and underneath a female connection port for the remote pressure switch. The tail switch module also allows the user to program the RM 2 between continual ON and STROBE (if activated) by double tapping either switch within a ¼ second. The remote pressure switch itself connects into the RM 2 at a 90-degree elbow to the WML for improved wire management in relation to the switch and rail space.

Similar to the TRL-9, the custom light optic produces 1,000 lumens (or 10,00 candela) in a narrow beam with peripheral illumination that reaches 200 meters before dispersal. In front of the optic, the RM 2 glass is also Borofloat high temperature glass.

The RM 2 is also powered by two CR123 lithium batteries that provide the rail mounted light an average 1.5 hours of continual runtime, or 3 hours on continuous strobe. The battery compartment is sealed via rubberized gasket to avoid penetration of moisture. Much like the TRL-9, special design feature of the RM 2 includes the “Safe ON/OFF” design into the lens cap.

The same series of mounting keys are included with the RM 2 that provide mounting compatibility across a wide variety of handgun platforms.

With an overall measurement of 4.55” (L) x 1.18” (W) x 1.27” (H) and an operating range between -40 degrees Fahrenheit, to 120 degrees. The RM 2 is also rated IPX7 for waterproofing.

Product Link: https://www.streamlight.com/en/products/detail/index/tlr-rm2

Product Evaluation Scores:

• Cost – Good (4/5): While the overall body housing is similar, the TLR-9 has an MSRP of $240 while the TLR RM 2 has an initial list of $225. The obvious minimal cost difference between the two resides in the variance of the tail switch modules. Both have similar performance, similar light output, and similar materials—thus the only real difference lies in the purpose of how they are applied. The TLR-9 is obviously intended for full length handguns with integrated MIL-STD-1913 rails, and comes with two different types of tail switch pressure pads. In contrast, while the RM 2 has the same housing it is clearly intended for long rifle applications and comes with the remote switch module as found in Streamlight’s ProTac series. Thus, it comes down to how one intends to use which light for the task at hand. In comparison there are very few dual-designed weapon lights on the market. Many users simply adapt a handgun WML to fit a long rifle, such as Surefire’s X300 ($299-429). However, for the handgun market of 1k+ lumen weapon lights, the price can range drastically from Olight’s Valkyrie ($99) to Surefire’s XH35 ($299). For long rifle weapon lights there is Cloud Defensive’s OWL ($369) to Modlight’s crushing 1350 lumen, 18350 ($330). While there are a number of technical and performance aspects that separate them all; for its price and design, both the TLR-9 and RM 2 are in a good price point to make them competitive amid the civilian market while yielding a good level of performance.
• Comfort – Good (4/5): Again, while both weapon lights threw the same comfortable degree of lumens and offered the same level of function, from a comfort aspect what separated the two was again the differences in tail switches and how the light was applied.
  • Much like the TLR-8 FLEX, the TLR-9 came with interchangeable high/low switch modules that allowed the user to opt between which worked better with their preferred shooting style/presentation. Given that the TLR-9 is intended to work with full-length handguns, it still gave a flush front with the barrel and did not excessively protrude or snag. On shorter or sub-compact handguns however, the TLR-9 did protrude noticeably. There was no notable negative influence from either switch module on point of impact, as determined by the approach of the thumb to the switch. The included rail mounting keys helped ensure a positive hold, although it was noted as a negative that the key for the firearm used in evaluations (a Springfield competition XD) wound up not being the key per the instructions that fit—although an alternate key did eventually work.
  • In comparison, the RM 2 as a long gun light had its own integrated switch module, with the optional female port underneath for its included pressure switch. This granted the user the option of using the light as a stand-alone device, or attach the pressure switch for added rail placement. It should be noted the 3 ¾” pressure switch had a 7” length of cable between it and the base of the WML that accommodated full-length rails as well as short barrel ones. The included rail-grabbing segments for the pressure switch, in conjunction with the included zip-ties, helped ensure a solid/secure hold although less than aesthetically pleasing. It should be noted the RM 2 itself had a rather large body profile against the rifle (both in width and length), something that could only allow it to be mounted in the primary 3 or 9 o’clock positions and felt rather cumbersome or tall off the rail in comparison to other more compact long gun lights, such as by Modlight.
• Durability – Good (4/5): From a durability aspect, the TLR-9 and RM 2 were roughly equal, in that they both share many of the same traditional robust Streamlight elements (aircraft-grade aluminum housing, Borofloat glass, shock-proof internals). Over the course of several live fire iterations, each weapon light was struck accordingly on the housing and light bezel with a loaded magazine 10 times before re-engaging the target at 15 yards. The process repeated itself until all four magazines were expended. At no point did the light flicker or falter, nor did the center-mass of the illumination drift from target. The durability testing did result in minor surface marring (cosmetic) but nothing that compromised the base metal or the light itself.
• Functionality – Good (4/5): Again, functionally both the TLR-9 and RM 2 held the same level of good illumination and functionality as previous Streamlight designs, with the traditional ON/OFF and momentary programmable modes (though a little tricky to engage/disengage). They both also featured the same “Safe ON/OFF” feature in the light emitter that prevented accidental emission as well as was a good feature for long-term storage. As with the comfort of how each weapon light was used, their switch modules delineated where the two differed in overall function.
  • The TLR-9, for a full-length handgun light, the ensuing hardware took a little time to transition between the high/low pressure pads (i.e. not a simple snap on/off). But this allowed for the best fit to the personal grip and presentation of the user. As with the TLR-8 FLEX, for larger hands the high switch proved a more comfortable option with its taller profile, and with less distance (however minor) needed to move the thumb down and forward to engage the switch. Smaller hands may like the low switch option, as it enabled the switch to be directly in line with the thumb and thus drive the thumb forward into the switch. In all, preference was determined by the user, and the only way to figure out which option worked best was through trial and error.
  • In contrast, the RM2 had a dual rear switch module (with a direct pressure pad for thumb activation, or a port in which to connect the remote switch) for use while mounted at a comfortable point on the rail. The direct pressure pad did have a tactile feel to activation that aided in recognizing when the light was in use. One notable negative aspect of the RM2 was the direct pressure pad on the rear of the housing lacked a protective cage or lockout feature, similar to one found on an Inforce weapon light, that could prevent accidental activation. The connecting remote switch had a nice 90-degree angle to the male connector that allowed it to immediately push the connecting cable down to the side rather than necessitating it coming directly back along the top of the rail. It should be noted that the remote pressure switch does not have the two button feature as the ProTac, but is just a single activation button.
• Weight – Average (3/5): Given the two weapon lights share roughly 70% of the same design, the TRL-9 weighed in at 4.26 ounces (with batteries) while the TLR RM 2 came in at 4.55 ounces (with batteries), so the difference in weight was minimal. Moreover, the general light weight of the weapon light did not pull the barrel nor disrupt the balance of the firearm. In comparison, the weight of the Olight Valkyrie (3.4 ounces) or the Surefire X300 (4 ounces) show that the weight of the TLR-9 is fair (or at an evaluated score of 2) amid other handgun lights on the market where compact sizes trump lumen output. Oppositely, the Cloud Defensive OWL (11 ounces) and the Modlight 18350 (4.27 ounces) show that the RM2 is more on par with the market, and had a good (or evaluated score of 4) overall weight ratio for long rifle weapon lights. Thus, between the two different weapon lights, they scored appropriately (or average) in this category.

Overall Rating – Above Average (19/25)

Product Link: https://www.streamlight.com/en

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.

Nestled in among the rolling corn fields of Centerville, Iowa is a body armor manufacturer that has been gaining in popularity over the last year thanks to its quality ceramic body armor at an affordable price for civilians. RMA Armament counts among its products the 1155 Model Hard Body Armor, an NIJ Certified Level IV (NIJ 0101.06) ceramic plate that can withstand most of today’s common threats.

The 1155 is in the industry standard of a 10” (W) x 12” (H) x 1” (D) plate dimension, and comes with the associated SAPI/ESAPI style cut that allows for more opening in the shoulder pocket and range of motion. The plate has a single vertical curve to allot for standard male upper torso curvatures.

The plate itself is of a standard monolithic aluminum oxide ceramic core, with a polyethylene backer that enables the plate to sustain multiple hits. Around the plate, RMA uses a 600D water-resistant nylon cover to help mitigate heat and moisture from the upper body.

As with all of its products, the RMA 1155 is made entirely in the USA. The 1155 Hard Body Armor plate itself is available in only in Black, although RMA does offer the 1155 separately with a “Back the Blue” logo on it in lieu of the RMA logo.

***Editor’s Comment***

Following this product review, in October 2023, the 1155 model was pulled by the National Institute of Justice (NIJ) at its Chesapeake Lab for a regular Follow-up Inspection Test (or FIT). What transpired remains publicly unclear; however, on 1 September the NIJ issued Safety Notice #05-2023 revoking the 1155s Level IV certification rating. This was after a tested plate (in a batch of four) sustained a penetration by a projectile. RMA posted a response four days later with documentation, objecting to the actions of the NIJ citing errors in the testing process itself, chain of custody, and recordkeeping. The proceeding actions by RMA, and lack of response by the NIJ or allotting RMA to appeal, made it unclear as to the exact nature of what transpired during the FIT, actions on the part of the NIJ, or how the issue could be resolved to assuage consumers. Ultimately, as of mid-2024 no further action or public statements have been made by either party on the event, and any 1155 manufactured after 1 September 2023 remains uncertified. RMA did identify the effected batch from which the failed plates originated from, and offered owners replacements (like when HESCO failed its own series of FIT tests). But the 1155 armor was also dual-tested by an NIJ-approved third-party laboratory, Oregon Ballistics, thus enabling the 1155s to remain “tested to NIJ standards”. Thus, any 1155 plate produced after 1 September 2023 is not NIJ certified, but has been tested by outside parties to meet NIJ 0101.06 standards. Ultimately, it is on the consumer to determine if this influences their decision making on body armor.

Product Evaluation Scores:

• Cost – Excellent (5/5): RMA offers ballistic protection at a variety of levels and cost ratios. The set of two, NIJ Certified, Level IV 1155s is currently listed on RMA’s website as $270 although it also does offer individual plates at $135 per plate. The 1155s are a single curve and made of the more readily used ceramic materials found in much of the industry. In contrast, market alternatives to the 1155s include anything from a set of the Level IV Hercules ($550) from Spartan Armor Systems, a set of Level IV 4601 ($467) from Hesco, or a set of Level IV Triple Curve (Model # 26605) ($539) from Hoplite Armor. All of which places the 1155s at an excellent price point amid its competitors which all share a similar NIJ certification level.
• Comfort – Average (3/5): Comfort wise, the 1155s had only a singular curve that accommodated the vertical curvature of the upper torso comfortable and appropriately for the male physique. Females may still find this curvature uncomfortable due to variances in upper body type. Perhaps the most notable effect to comfort on the 1155s was the weight (as noted below), as worn for longer durations (1hr. +) it became very apparent in the shoulders and lower lumbar region despite the use of a quality carrier for evaluations. This was the tradeoff for having an affordable plate with the same protective ratings as more expensive brands, using the more commonly available ceramics. With its 1” thickness, the 1155s also had an appropriate (or average) profile off the torso and (properly sized for the individual) the corners did not poke or gouge unnecessarily. The inclusion of padding/buffer around the core ceramic material also added to the comfort, ensuring that no hard edges/angles were felt despite dynamic movements.
• Durability – Average (3/5): Obviously the durability of ballistic plates lies in that they perform to a known (and consistent) standard (even as a minimum). The 1155’s are NIJ Level IV Certified to stop projectiles at under 3200fps, or as the NIJ tests for—a single hit form a 30-06 AP round. Assuming the end-user does nothing that would otherwise compromise the integrity of the plats, the 1155’s should withstand time. RMA does offer a 10 year manufacturer’s warranty with all its ballistic plates, so they do support their product and its performance for the appropriate (or average) timeframe as other manufacturers. As noted in our editorial series on body armor, the warranty merely reflects the manufacturer’s interest to support the customer while still ensuring performance. Ceramic doesn’t “expire” in the sense that it degrades just over time and usage, but 10 years is pretty average for what manufacturers are willing to ensure the product for. Added to the durability of the 1155s was a padded/buffer layer to the edges and front/back side of the plates. This was to aid in drop protection and avoid the ceramic from cracking (although most modern ceramics are very durable) if accidentally dropped. One issue noted from a durability aspect was the nylon cover around the plates had some cuts/holes in the material upon receipt. This was merely cosmetic, and did not fray further during evaluation while in the carrier, but something the consumer should be aware of due to the thin layer of material itself.
• Functionality – Good (4/5): As noted, the 1155’s are NIJ Certified and readily found in the CPL, which means the RMA plates themselves have already been submitted to the most stringent of scientific testing and evaluation, thus passed in good order. Therefore, the plates will functionally protect the end user up to a specific rated velocity (in the case of 1155’s Level IV), to include those readily found in some of the most common rifle and pistol calibers. As such, there is little that could be done to the plates for evaluation on function (such as submersion/soak testing, drop-testing, and ballistic testing) that hasn’t already been performed and well documented. It is the position of STL Shooting Enthusiasts that “backyard destructive testing” is neither a scientific nor credible means to evaluate body armor, specifically if the plates themselves are already NIJ Certified. Such means could provide a glimpse into the performance of the armor to a degree—but not one that could be considered reliable due to variances on ammo velocities, projectile materials, and even ambient air temperature.
• Weight – Fair (2/5): At 8.3 pounds per plate, the 1155s were notably heavier than other plates that utilize more advanced and lighter materials. The weight of each 1155 is directly attributed to the ceramic composite material, which have sufficient density to defeat projectiles for the NIJ rated velocities stated. In contrast, a Level IV Hercules (6.9 pounds) from Spartan Armor Systems, a Level IV 4601 (6.4 pounds) from Hesco, or a Level IV Triple Curve (Model # 26605) (6.5 pounds) from Hoplite Armor all show that while the 1155s are the more inexpensive options, they are also one of the heavier and fair among the market of alternatives.

Overall Rating – Above Average (17/25)

Product Link: https://rmadefense.com/store/body-armor/level-iv/level-iv-hard-armor-plate-model-1155-set/

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.