These are photos of a new 6004 accessory called the MOLLE Locking System. In fact its not intended solely for the 6004, it can be adapted to a variety of Safariland products. The mounting fork easily slides into MOLLE channels. Additionally, the MOLLE Locking System allows the user to retain the same leg shroud but easily change out actual holsters by means of the fork affixed to the rear of the holster that slides into a MOLLE receiver plate mounted on the shroud. It is also compatible with a MOLLE panel, belt mount, and shoulder rig.
Archive for May, 2008
New Safariland 6004 Accessory
Saturday, May 31st, 2008A Website for the Do-It-Yourselfer: DIY Tactical
Friday, May 30th, 2008I mentioned the gang at DIY Tactical in a recent post about the SOF Industry Conference. They are the go-to guys for folks who want to have it their way. They even service small government customers with repair materials. Mike Rinaldi, who owns DIY spoke with me about his customer base and some of the products he sources. The problem many smaller custom shops have is that they can’t meet the minimums from the mill for specialty materials. In addition to the hobbyist and small businessman Mike says he sometimes gets calls from larger companies doing prototypes of small runs and need to use a fabric they don’t normally stock. But they offer more than just standard Cordura. They also webbing, hardware, and thread. If they don’t have it, they will get it.
DIY also sponsors a forum for the burgeoning entrepreneur where one can get advice on anything from setting up a small business to how to time a finicky sewing machine. Remember, the late, great Logan Coffey started out in his room in the barracks.
The Blue Force Gear Universal Wire Loop
Friday, May 30th, 2008Blue Force Gear, manufacturer of the popular Vickers series of slings has recently released a new product. Machined from a 6061 aluminum billet, the sling loop is bead blasted and arrives with a non-reflective black finish. The nylon coating renders the cable virtually silent and provides a degree of flexibility unavailable with hooks commonly used to attach slings. The loop adapts to all varieties of weapons and accommodates nonconventional carry options. Two different lengths are now available.
Field Jacket – a Eulogy
Thursday, May 29th, 2008Don’t expect to see a tear filled goodbye to the Field Jacket from me. Instead I am jumping for joy. Starting in FY09 the Army will cease fielding the M-65 Field jacket. Instead, each Soldier will be issued a Gen II ECWCS (Extreme Cold Weather Clothing System) parka in UCP (Universal Camouflage Pattern) and it will be transferred as an OCIE item with the Soldier from assignment to assignment much like the laundry bag.
It amazes me to see so many still wearing the venerable M-65. The basic design for the M-65 hails from WW II and remained relatively unchanged over the years. Soldiers wore the M-43 Field Coat during their march to Berlin. Over the years there were small changes like a redesigned collar or the introduction of Quarpel (Quartermaster Water Repellent), the precursor to today’s DWR treatments. In the 80s the Field Jacket was transformed from OD Green to Woodland Camo but the basic design didn’t change. Later a 3-Color Desert variant was issued as Organizational Clothing for operations in the CENTCOM AOR. Finally, when the ACU was fielded the Field Jacket saw its latest change. The pattern was changed to UCP and velcro was added to the sleeves for shoulder sleeve insignia and to the zipper flap for rank.
Its replacement, the Army version of the Gen II ECWCS parka is also in UCP and began its life as a Marine Corps garment. The Marine Corps wanted a replacement for the first generation of ECWCS which featured out dated design features. The Marine Corps has moved on to an even more improved version of the garment called APECS (All Purpose Environmental Clothing System). The USAF has also adopted APECS in conjunction with their switch to the ABU.
Duffel Bag Drag
Wednesday, May 28th, 2008Recently I posted about the Army’s plans to replace an old GI standby; the cotton towel. Well another military icon may be on its way out as well. While it might not be as sexy as a new rucksack, the venerable duffel bag is one of the few items that will follow a Soldier into civilian life. Other than updating the material and shoulder straps in the 80s the design hasn’t changed since before WW II. The Army’s PM-CIE plans to incorporate features of the flyer’s kit bag into the new design while retaining the ability to secure the new bag’s zippered opening with a padlock. The new duffel will also feature cargo handles on each end in order to facilitate loading of the bag on to trucks and pallets.
There will be a user field evaluation in FY09.
The 330 Revolution: Genesis
Wednesday, May 28th, 2008Lightweight – A recent history
The move toward lightweight military equipment is almost cyclical in nature. Today the market is saturated with “bomb-proof” gear designed to last a lifetime. But as the owner of Mayflower pointed out to me, we fought the Viet Nam war using parapack fabric. It was lightweight but not overly robust. Heavy, over engineered load carrying systems are a fairly recent phenomenon. The British made the jump to high tenacity nylon first when they fielded PLCE. But here in the US, on an almost parallel path the early Tactical Load Bearing Vests were made from ballistic nylon that quickly transitioned to 500D Cordura and Field Packs, Large Internal Frame were manufactured from 1000D Cordura. When the full jump to MOLLE came the materials transitioned as well. The benefit was obvious; the more abrasion resistant texturized nylons had a longer service life. In the fall of 2001, members of SOCOM began operating in the mountains of Afghanistan wearing these same systems. Quickly, they realized that to maintain the edge, they would need to shed pounds from their load wherever possible.
Looking back, I think that for the most part, the ALICE gear we used for so many years held up pretty well and at a fraction of the weight. However, I realize now that part of the problem is that the designs themselves were never updated. Unconsciously, we associate pack cloth with poor performance. It may not have been the materials nearly as much as the designs. Fortunately, new lightweight fabrics engineered for strength have entered the scene and a small cadre of forward thinking manufacturers are developing new designs to capitalize on their availability.
Modularity – Its strength is its weakness
I know I was leading the charge to move to a more modular solution but I have written in the past how I feel that the pendulum has swung too far in favor of modularity. Let’s face it, the average guy sets his kit up and changes very little. Members of some units cut the attachment system from their pouches and rigs and have the Riggers sew the pouches fast. I prefer a “hybrid” approach meaning that certain pouches such as those for ammunition will always remain in the same place but a warrior may be issued a different radio or other ancillary item based on METT-T. I am also an advocate of using the right material for the right job. Many “monolithic” load carrying solutions on the market are made entirely from one material; usually 1000D Cordura. Others utilize specific fabrics for different applications in their designs but overdo resulting in equipment that you can pass on to your grandkids but weight a ton. Just as with modularity, a balance must be made.
Solutions – An answer for the masses and a call to action
Considering weight, cost and flexibility, currently the best rig I have seen that espouses these principles is the SKD version of the Universal Chest Rig manufactured by Eagle. It is inexpensive and you can buy it today. However, others are applying the principles I have discussed and are producing kit for a small customer base. Soon, I expect to see these designs gain wider acceptance. I also hope to see larger manufacturers adopt at least some of these weight saving principles as well. Not only will they result in a lighter load for our warriors but we may also realize lower manufacturing costs.
My friends at Military Morons, have a great review here
The 330 Revolution Pt. 1
Tuesday, May 27th, 2008Mayflower Research & Consulting LLC, a little known manufacturer of highly specialized load carrying systems displayed an ultralight chest rig designed for use by the military athlete at the recent SOF Industry Conference. Manufactured from a combination of 500D and 330D Multicam Cordura, the UW Chest rig is designed to carry 4 ea 5.56mm magazines, 2 pistol magazines, up to 2 small radios (MBITR) as well as two GP pockets. Additionally, the H style harness features loops to route antennas, comms wires and hydration bladder tubing. Lessons learned in the mountains of Afghanistan have been applied in the design of this innovative chest rig. Don’t let the lightweight construction make you think that it won’t stand up to punishment. The entire design is intended to take unneeded ounces off of the wearer’s load. When used in conjunction with other equipment built with this new approach the Soldier can take pounds off of his back. All buckles are ITW Nexus IR and all materials and workmanship are 100% American. In addition to Multicam, the UW rig is available in Ranger Green and Coyote in 500D Cordura. While most of Mayflower’s work is customized to the end user, a standard version should be available soon.
PCU Going Green?
Monday, May 26th, 2008There has been much talk over the past few years about “green” technologies. To some this means recycled materials and to some it means renewable supplies. For Natick’s Program Manager for SOF Survivability Systems green technologies are a move from olefin-based materials to natural based fibers. The largest concern is that the natural materials provide similar durability and performance as the currently used petroleum-based ones. One technology that has shown promise is bamboo fibers treated with coconut oil. At the recent Soldier Systems APBI representatives from PM-SSS briefed that these new green technologies might find their way as early as FY09 into the Protective Combat Uniform program or another combat uniform. While it remains rumor, there has been a great deal of buzz over SOCOM developing a new camouflage pattern and that a solicitation for both a pattern and new combat uniform may come in FY09.
Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull
Monday, May 26th, 2008For those of you who haven’t seen it; do so. It is a fantastic addition to the franchise. Overall the movie was very well done but two accuracy errors stood out for me. The Soldiers were wearing the correct Ridgeway style caps but the Colonel had sewn on rank. Additionally, during the scene with the troops in NBC garments, they were wearing M-17 protective masks and not the M-9 as would have been the standard issue at the time. In fact the M-9 soldiered on for quite some time after the M-17 series was fielded for those involved in decontamination operations.
If anyone noticed any other errors shoot me an email at admin@soldiersystems.net and I will add them.
Survivability Through Mobility
Monday, May 26th, 2008Finally the tide seems to be turning and the conventional wisdom of armoring service members like tanks seems to be coming to an end. At the Soldier Systems APBI in May MARCORSYSCOM officials stated the they were “willing to accept risk for the sake of mobility” and the term “Survivability through mobility” has become PM-ICE’s mantra in their quest for a replacement for the Modular Tactical Vest program. The effects of this push can already be seen with the fielding of the new plate carrier to Marines in Afghanistan. PM-ICE representatives also stated that they were looking to reduce the area of coverage on the MTV replacement and reduce cumbersomeness in order to increase lethality.
Mirage Camo
Saturday, May 24th, 2008Bulldog Equipment unveiled the new Mirage camouflage pattern at AUSA in October of last year. At SOFIC they modified their display of tactical equipment to feature their new uniform system in the Mirage pattern. The uniform consists of a Fire Resistant Undershirt, Garrison Combat Top, Summer Combat Top, and Pants. The garments are well made and include features that were developed through direct feedback from testers. These include super fabric reinforced knees, elbows and, shoulders, reinforced crotch, over-sized pen pockets to accommodate chemlights and sharpie markers as well as reinforcements in other areas of high abrasion. In addition to uniform items they have also produced versions of their assault pack and sniper drag bag in Mirage pattern. Although they are quiet about possible customers, Bulldog remains adamant that they will restrict the innovative pattern to US DoD only.
Access to the new website is available to those with .mil email addresses.
Don’t Throw in the Towel – Yet
Saturday, May 24th, 2008Remember that thin brown Army Towel that you were issued in Basic Training and only worked because you didn’t have any hair to dry? The next time you pulled it out of the bottom of your duffel bag was for PLDC. Well one of the most useless issue items is finally undergoing an update. PEO-Soldier is currently conducting a market survey of alternative towels. Many Soldiers have purchased travel towels or other chamois-style towels. Officials want to see if they can source a Berry compliant version that is lightweight, fast drying, and actually does its job.
Soldier Systems APBI Slides Published
Saturday, May 24th, 2008They are available at:
USMC Scalable Plate Carrier
Saturday, May 24th, 2008Responding to an Urgent Needs Statement from Marines in Afghanistan, MARCORSYSCOM has begun fielding a plate carrier. The recent backlash over the Modular Tactical Vest can also be credited with this bold move. It seems as though the services are getting the message that a more mobile shooter is a more lethal shooter. No details as to manufacturer have been released. However, an interesting feature on the prototype is offset PALS webbing on the upper chest.
Air Force FIRESAFE Program
Saturday, May 24th, 2008The Air Force Clothing Office is hard at work developing new clothing for Airmen serving in ground combat.
The overarching program is called FIRESAFE and charged with development of the Airman Combat System – Ground, Fire Resistant Airman Battle Uniform and the thus far, ill-fated Airman Battle Shirt.
The Fire Resistant Airman Battle Uniform should be on track as the Air Force is leveraging an Army contract for the FR ACU and has only to decide how the coat’s pockets will be laid out. Amazingly, this remains a point of contention for all of the FR clothing items even though they have no garrison application. There is still a faction that wants the enlisted to wear their stripes on their sleeves even in the field.
The Airman Combat System – Ground will consist of under garments, a battle uniform, cold weather clothing, ballistic protection, load carrying system, and ancillary items (these were unspecified).
Coming Soon to a Soldier Near You- Army Combat Pants
Saturday, May 24th, 2008Officials were tight lipped on details but working with input from PM-SSS at Natick, PEO-Soldier is developing an Army Combat Pant to complement the already successful Army Combat Shirt. Nine initiatives are currently under evaluation. We can only speculate that they will resemble Crye’s Assault Pants in some fashion.
Mystery Ranch Redesigns Website
Friday, May 23rd, 2008Just a head’s up. Mystery Ranch has updated their website and they are unveiling several new products to the public that were previously reserved for specialized customers or have been in development.
Look for a full article on the evolution of the 3-day Assault Pack soon.
Beyond Tactical
Friday, May 23rd, 2008Beyond is going strong. At SOFIC they displayed a new FR coverall with a new pocket arrangement thus far unique to LE. Considering the cost of the Mojave cloth BDU coverall is about $200 and the new FR material, although heavier will be about $280, that is a fantastic value for those who need FR properties. The owner, Scott Jones also told me that the full Beyond PCU line will be available in standard sizes from ADS in the fall. This is a boon for individuals who want to source the system as well as units who do not have access to PCU or Gen III ECWCS.
SOFIC follow up
Friday, May 23rd, 2008Top five things from the SOF Industry Conference
1. BAE Visual Augmentation System and Corona
2. Tactical Distributors boonie
3. Finally, evidence of the 330 revolution
4. Timberland Force Multiplier Series boots
5. Arc’teryx Rigger’s Belt
Check back regularly for updates on these subjects
Spycraft
Friday, May 23rd, 2008If you are as big of a fan of military gadgets as I am you are awaiting with bated breath the release of the book, “Spycraft” by Robert Wallace and H. Keith Melton. It presents a history of the CIA’s spy tools and a rare inside look at that agency’s Office of Technical Service. Release is 29 May.
The True North Tactical Story
Thursday, May 22nd, 2008I posted briefly about the awesome boonie I saw the other day made by True North. That wasn’t entirely true. It actually came from Tactical Distributors, LLC who handles London Bridge as well as True North. Tactical Distributors has committed to producing 1000 of the hats based on the overwhelming feedback they received at the show. But I digress. I asked the folks from Tactical Distributors where the True North brand came from and they explained that they had been looking for a way to provide London Bridge quality and innovation at a lower price point for those who did not require Berry compliance. They have sourced high quality manufacturers overseas and build the same products from the LBT line. They don’t skimp on materials either. They use the same cordura and mil spec webbing that have been the hallmarks of LBT’s products for decades. This is a fantastic way for the individual to more easily afford LBT’s product offerings. They plan on unveiling some designs under the True North name that have been exclusive to a certain group of customers. Expect to see lighter materials and innovative features soon.
Tactical Distributors LLC
Arc’teryx Morale Patch
Thursday, May 22nd, 2008Arc’teryx was handing these out at SOFIC. The motto is “Evolve Per Factum” or Evolution by Design.
ACU testing
Thursday, May 22nd, 2008The Army plans on testing two new variants of the ACU beginning in July. The overall goal of the test is to remedy shortcomings of the current design. Specifically, they will be testing a 50/50 NYCO Twill instead of the current 50/50 NYCO ripstop fabric. The new test fabric features more mechanical stretch than the ripstop. In addition to the current wrinkle free finish the Army will also investigate a soil release treatment. The Army also aims to reduce the amount of hook and pile tape on the uniform by 16% for the coat and 33% for the trousers. For the coat this will be accomplished by moving the top piece of velcro down and reducing the size of each piece to 1/2″ squares. The bicep pocket velcro will also be reduced in overall size and the glint tape will be moved to the velcro. The trouser cargo pockets will undergo a major overhaul and the hook and pile tape will be replaced with either buttons or snaps. Additionally, the pen pocket is being modified. There will be a pen pocket on the inside of the front closure and sleeve pen pocket will be enlarged to accommodate three sharpies in addition to a new closure flap. They are reshaping the collar so that it will stay down. Finally, the crotch of the trousers is being reinforced.
1400 Soldiers at Ft Lewis, Ft Bliss, and Ft Carson should begin receiving candidate ACUs in July. Testing will last for 60 – 90 days.
The Winter Combat Shirt
Thursday, May 22nd, 2008Both the Army and Marine Corps have been discussing development of a “winter” weight combat shirt. The Marines are very satisfied with the Combat Desert Jacket, but are looking for something in FR. It has been described as a pullover with a “ventable” neck. The body would be FR fleece with a means to secure the waist. The arm sections would be manufactured from a wind and weather resistant material. An RFP should be issued in a few months.
Update: 10 June, 2008. This item showed up on eBay.
The Army Service Uniform
Thursday, May 22nd, 2008Okay, most folks will find this kind of mundane but the “official” word has it that the Army is going to a white shirt as part of the ASU. However, the new CSA has slowed plans to convert to the ASU. He hasn’t stopped plans, the transition just isn’t going to happen as quickly as originally planned.
