B5 Systems Retro Line

Archive for September, 2008

Blue Force Gear – UCP and Multicam Slings

Thursday, September 4th, 2008

Blue Force Gear is the first company to offer their line of slings (except the Victory) in both Multicam and Universal Pattern. As with the rest of their product line, the webbing is low-IR with a flat, abrasion resistant finish. The Multicam pattern webbing has been approved by and is licensed from Crye Precision. The VCAS and Padded VCAS will be the first slings available in the new patterns. Deliveries should begin no later than mid-September.

Blue Force Gear - UCP and Multicam VCAS Slings

If you want to know why this is so important, take a look at the picture below. Typically, slings are Black. The color matched UCP sling blends in perfectly with the ACU, drastically aiding the camouflage effect.
Blue Force Gear UCP Sling Comparison

In addition to the new Universal Camouflage Pattern and Multicam, the slings are still available in Black, Coyote, Olive, and Foliage Green.

To order contact Blue Force Gear.

All graphics property of Blue Force Gear.

Wrap Yourself in a Cocoon

Wednesday, September 3rd, 2008

For years I used a flannel travel sheet from Design Salt. Talk about comfort. Design Salt’s unique product line is just as appropriate for vacation as on deployment. My favorite is the Flannel TravelSheet. You’d think that it would be hot in summer but not so. It is very comfortable and convenient in that you don’t have to wash your entire sleep system, you just pull out the liner and wash it. It dries quickly and can also be used for instances where you have to spend the night in dubious sleeping quarters. Like the name, it provides a cocoon.

Cocoon Flannel TravelSheet

At the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market Design Salt announced that they too would incorporate the Insect Shield technology.

The entire Cocoon line is available from Design Salt.

Photo is courtesy of Design Salt.

Hydrogel from Amron International

Tuesday, September 2nd, 2008

Amron has been a DSCP Prime Vendor for Special Operations equipment as well as a major player in the tactical industry for many years. Originally a manufacturer for equipment for hard hat divers, Amron now offers an entire range of Soldier Systems products from a variety of vendors. In keeping with SSB’s commitment to introducing new and innovative products to a wider audience we were pleased to run across Amron’s newest home run; Hydrogel. Hydrogel originated in the medical industry but breachers soon determined that it’s inherent properties made it perfect for affixing charges to walls and doorways. You see, its stick on both sides, very sticky.

Hydrogel from Amron International

Hydrogel comes in rolls or 12 packs of individual sheets.

Hydrogel from Amron International

To order contact Amron International.

AeroVest

Tuesday, September 2nd, 2008

Probably the most interesting product I saw at the Outdoor Retailer Summer market was a survival product called the AeroVest. manufactured by SolaTec, the AeroVest made from a lightweight metalized polyethylene, a material similar to a space blanket.
This is so it is not only durable but will reflect your body heat back towards you. Unlike a standard space blanket it is designed specifically to be worn and also utilizes trapped air as an additional insulation layer.

AeroVest

The 2 oz AeroVest comes standard in Orange but custom runs can be made in any color scheme. At OR they displayed an AeroVest made in UCP. Considered a one time use item it is only because it is difficult to get all of the air out of it once the 18 pockets are inflated. To inflate simply put the AeroVest on loosely, insert the straw provided with the vest into one of the two slots near the neck in the same manner as a juice pouch and blow (2 – 5 breaths) into the straw to inflate the vest. Repeat on the other side. You can remove the straw because the material is self-sealing. Small tears can be easily repaired with tape.

AeroVest

One size fits most and they mean it. The front opening is closed by a resealable adhesive that is good for about 30 closures. Of course use in an extremely dirty environment will reduce the number of times it will adhere.

AeroVest is made in the USA.

For more information contact AeroVest.

Diagram is property of AeroVest.

S.O.Tech Tactical Symbology

Monday, September 1st, 2008

At the recent Trexpo East exposition near Dulles International Airport in Virginia, Special Operations Technologies showed their new Tactical Symbology system. Mil-Std 2525A military symbology really only goes down to the squad level and there is no standardized system for military and law enforcement to depict individuals during sand table exercises. Based on Mil Std 2525, the S.O.Tech symbology goes one step further toward the increased granularity of information required for tactical ops at the micro level, say conducting a vehicle checkpoint or clearing a room. Whenever possible they utilized standardized symbols but created new, intuitive symbols where none existed. Additionally, they extended the concept to support LE operations.

S.O.Tech Tactical Symbology

The idea sprang actually from another initiative. S.O.Tech developed a set of patches to designate the specialties of both individuals and their equipment. They are available for Leader, Assaulter, Sniper, Breacher, and Medic. EOD is under development. The patches are embroidered and backed with Velcro. Additionally, the patch features a tab that allows it to be attached via 550 or cable tie to bags or other items. S.O.Tech also offers T-shirts and ball caps featuring the copyrighted symbols.

S.O.Tech Tactical Symbology
The symbols depicted above are: (Clockwise from top left) Sniper, Leadership, Medic, Assaulter.
For more information contact S.O.Tech.