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Beyond Clothing Chosin Collection: L8 Extreme Cold Weather System

Thursday, May 14th, 2026

Beyond Clothing has introduced the Chosin Collection, a fourpiece L8 Extreme Cold Weather (ECW) system designed for operations in extreme cold environments where prolonged, stationary exposure makes heat retention crucial for survival. While the ECWCS 1-7 Layering System provides scalable protection across a broad range of conditions, it is not appropriate for sustained static exposure in the Arctic or High North Environments. The Chosin Collection was developed to fill that capability gap with additional insulation and protection for extended cold weather operations.

Above: By Photo by Corporal Peter McDonald, USMC – [1] (originally uploaded to en.wiki by Raul654), Public Domain, commons.wikimedia.org/w/index

The name Chosin refers the Korean War’s Battle of Chosin Reservoir, the coldest battle fought by U.S. forces, where temperatures fell as low as ?36°F and environmental exposure caused thousands of nonbattle casualties. The Chosin system is designed with that tragic lesson in mind: eliminate the environmental enemy so the warfighter can focus on the mission.

Integrated System Design and Testing

The Chosin Collection is a fully integrated system, with each component precisely engineered to complement the others. All features—like the ergonomic zipper pulls, pocket geometry on the bibs, and mapped insulation patterns in the mitts—were intentionally designed to work together when layered over a complete ECWCS configuration.

The system has undergone extensive testing and evaluation by Beyond Clothing personnel and end users across a wide range of coldweather environments, including ANWR, Alaska; Warroad, Minnesota; Bemidji, Minnesota; the Swiss Alps; and other global coldweather locations. Testing emphasized longduration static exposure, sustainment tasks, packability, and thermal retention overhighoutput movement.

Above: Beyond Clothing team testing multiple prototype variations of the Chosin ECW Mitt and Overboot.

Chosin Collection system highlights include:

• Laboratory stress tested to validate insulation and material performance

• Built to maximize warfighter lethality by minimizing environmental degradation

• Maximum packability for warmth-to-weight ratio

• Optimized for full mechanical mobility during static and lowoutput operations

• Rigorously tested by endusers in realworld cold environments

Above: Beyond Clothing team testing prototypes of the L8 Chosin ECW Parka and Bib.

Integrated L8 Polar Insulation

The Chosin Collection is a true ECWCS Level 8 (Polar Insulation) system for use when movement is limited, and maximum thermal retention is required. Unlike active insulation layers designed for movement, Chosin prioritizes wind blockage, full coverage, and heat retention during static and lowoutput operations.

The system consists of four components:

• Chosin ECW Parka

• Chosin ECW Bib

• Chosin ECW Mitt

• Chosin ECW Overboot

All components are Made in the USA, Berry Amendment compliant, and designed to layer over standard ECWCS ensembles.

Chosin ECW Parka

The Chosin ECW Parka is the system anchor and provides full upperbody protection from extreme cold exposure. It features a WINDSTOPPER® by GORETEX LABS shell combined with 10oz of Climashield® Apex insulation to prevent wind penetration and reduce convective heat loss.

An adjustable hood with a removable fur ruff provides facial protection from the elements, while insulated draft flaps minimize cold intrusion around zippers and cuffs. Bodymapped insulation balances warmth and mobility during extended static use.

Chosin ECW Bib

Designed to pair directly with the Chosin ECW Parka, the Chosin ECW Bib insulates and protects the lowerbody for prolonged cold exposure. Built with a WINDSTOPPER shell and Climashield Apex insulation, the bib can be worn over existing layers without restricting movement.

Fulllength, twoway side zippers allow rapid donning and doffing without removing boots and provide ventilation. Cordura® reinforced highwear areas improve durability during seated or kneeling observation, specifically for protection against use with crampons, snowshoes, or skies.

Chosin ECW Mitt

The Chosin ECW Mitt is a lightweight, highly packable solution for extreme cold hand protection. Insulated with Climashield Apex and lined with NATIVA™ Regen merino wool, the mitt emphasizes warmthtoweight efficiency for polar environments.

An extended gauntlet seals over outerwear sleeves, while grip zones and windblocking panels concentrate insulation in high heatloss areas. The design supports dexterity for tasks using ice axes, ski poles and during the use of snow machines, while prioritizing heat retention during static operations.

Chosin ECW Overboot

The Chosin ECW Overboot was developed to address one of the longstanding limitations of legacy extreme cold footwear: excessive weight and bulk that degrade mobility and endurance.

Traditional overboots designed for arctic use often prioritize insulation at the expense of mass, resulting in footwear that is cumbersome to move in, fatigues over time, and is impractical for extended dismounted operations.

In contrast, the Chosin ECW Overboot delivers significant cold-weather insulation at a fraction of the weight typically associated with legacy systems. Designed to fit over issued boots, it combines EVA foam insulation with compressible high-loft materials to retain warmth while remaining exceptionally lightweight and low profile.

The result is an overboot that improves thermal protection without immobilizing the warfighter.

A flexible, durable sole allows natural foot movement and supports normal gait, helping maintain mobility during prolonged cold exposure. Reinforced toe and heel areas increase durability for ground contact and uneven terrain, while the pack-flat design reduces rucksack volume when not in use.

The overboot is compatible with NATO 120 cable bindings and snowshoes, supporting arctic mobility platforms without requiring dedicated cold-weather boots or permanent integration. By reducing weight and preserving movement, the Chosin ECW Overboot enables operators to remain mobile and functional in extreme cold environments where traditional overboots can quickly become a liability.

Built for Extreme Cold Survival

Rather than prioritizing speed or aerobic output, the ChosinCollection is built for survival in the world’s coldest environments. When worn as a complete system, it provides neartotal wind blockage and full thermal coverage, allowing operators to remain effective in conditions where exposure alone can be missionending.

Availability

The Chosin Collection is available directly from Beyond Clothing in Multicam Alpine and OCP with support for government and unit purchasing programs.

• L8 Chosin ECW Parka: $1,455.99

• L8 Chosin ECW Bib: $1,059.99

• Chosin ECW Mitt: $374.99

• Chosin ECW Overboot: $434.99

More information is available at beyondclothing.com.

Posted in Advertiser, Clothing, Guest Post | No Comments »

EOTECH Partners with Walk the Talk America During Mental Health Awareness Month

Wednesday, May 13th, 2026

Plymouth, MI (May 2026) – May 2026 marks the 77th annual Mental Health Awareness Month, focusing on reducing stigma, providing education, and promoting community support. This year, EOTECH has partnered with Walk The Talk America (WTTA), a national nonprofit 501(c)(3) that works at the intersection of mental health and responsible firearm ownership to reduce negative outcomes with firearms.

“One of the biggest challenges in suicide prevention is reaching people in ways that feel trusted, respectful, and culturally relevant. That’s why this partnership matters. EOTECH understands the community they serve, and together we’re helping normalize conversations around mental health within the firearms community without judgment or politics.” Said Michael Sodini, Founder of WTTA. “We’ve always believed the firearms community can be part of the solution. Gun owners care deeply about protecting their families, friends, and communities, and that includes mental health. Partnerships like this help expand access to resources while reinforcing a culture of responsibility, awareness, and support.”

“EOTECH is a staunch supporter of the 2nd Amendment and active sponsor of several mental health awareness programs over the years” said Lisa Kemp, Director of Marketing. “The WTTA is an ideal partner because they bridge the gap between personal and public health and individual rights and responsibilities”

In addition to the monetary donation, EOTECH will include a specially designed flyer in each of their consumer shipments sold in the US. The flyer will provide information on mental health resources, emphasizing the importance of mental well-being alongside responsible firearm ownership. The flyer will direct users to WTTA’s resources, encouraging a proactive approach to mental health within the firearms community.

In the United States, we lose over 75 individuals to suicide by firearm every day. Yet most suicide prevention efforts struggle to reach everyday gun owners in ways that feel respectful, culturally informed, and practical. WTTA exists to close that gap. For more information on WTTA and the services, materials, and training they provide, please visit www.walkthetalkamerica.org.

Posted in Advertiser, Industry, Nonprofit, Press Release | No Comments »

Colt’s Manufacturing Company Awarded Five-Year Defense Logistics Agency Contract in Support of Critical Small Arms Components

Wednesday, May 13th, 2026

WEST HARTFORD, Conn. — Colt’s Manufacturing Company LLC is proud to announce that it has been awarded Contract SPE7LX-26-D-0051 by the Defense Logistics Agency in support of NSN 1005-01-505-1035, Bolt, Breech.

The five-year, firm-fixed-price indefinite quantity contract carries a maximum award value of$17,589,566.00 and reinforces Colt’s continued commitment to supporting the U.S. Government, the Defense Logistics Agency, and the warfighter through the reliable delivery of high-quality, mission-critical small arms components.

As a long-standing partner to the U.S. Government and the defense industrial base, Colt remains focused on providing the technical expertise, manufacturing capability, and cross-functional execution required to support critical readiness and sustainment needs across the military supply chain.

This award further demonstrates Colt’s enduring role in supporting U.S. military readiness through the production and delivery of essential small arms components. Colt appreciates the continued confidence placed in its team by its U.S. Government customers and congratulates the internal Colt team members whose dedication, technical expertise, and coordinated efforts made this award possible.

Posted in Advertiser, Contracts, Press Release, Weapon Accessories | No Comments »

UF PRO Introduces Woodland Camouflage to Its Clothing Lineup

Wednesday, May 13th, 2026

KOMENDA, SLOVENIA (12 May 2026)

UF PRO expands its clothing portfolio with the introduction of Woodland camouflage across several established products.

Few camouflage patterns carry the same legacy and recognition as the iconic Woodland pattern, also widely known as M81. Introduced in the early 1980s as the standard camouflage of the United States Armed Forces, the pattern quickly became one of the most recognisable military camouflage designs worldwide. Over the decades, Woodland evolved far beyond its original military role, finding its place across special operations units, law enforcement teams, training environments, and the broader tactical community.

Its characteristic four-colour composition, developed for temperate woodland terrain, became closely associated with an entire generation of military operations and tactical equipment. Even decades after its introduction, Woodland remains one of the most requested camouflage patterns among professional users and enthusiasts alike, valued both for its operational heritage and enduring field relevance.

The camouflage pattern is now available on the Striker XT Gen.2 Combat Shirt, a breathable and fast-drying combat shirt designed for demanding operational use, combining durable sleeve construction with a lightweight torso material for improved comfort under body armour and load-bearing equipment.

It is also available on the Hunter FZ Gen.3 Tactical Softshell Jacket, a lightweight, windproof, and water-repellent softshell jacket developed for changing weather conditions, offering mobility, breathability, and reliable protection during active use.

The Woodland addition further extends to the P-40 Gen.2 Tactical Shorts, lightweight tactical shorts designed for warm-weather operations and range use, combining comfort, freedom of movement, and the functional pocket configuration characteristic of the P-40 line, as well as the Striker Gen.3 Boonie Hat, a lightweight field hat engineered for hot-weather environments, providing sun protection, ventilation, and reliable comfort during prolonged use in the field.

The Striker X Gen.2 Combat Pants, available later this year, will further expand the Woodland offering. Developed for demanding operational environments, the combat pants feature durable materials, ergonomic construction, and an integrated knee protection configuration for extended field use.

The rollout focuses on extending proven and field-tested UF PRO systems into one of the most anticipated camouflage additions within the brand’s portfolio. Each product maintains the same materials, construction, and functionality already established across the existing lineup, including ergonomic fit systems, durable fabric constructions, and mission-focused features developed for demanding operational environments.

With the addition of Woodland camouflage, UF PRO continues to expand its clothing portfolio in response to long-standing demand from operators and tactical professionals worldwide.

Learn more: ufpro.com

Posted in Advertiser, Camo, Clothing, Press Release | No Comments »

MYSTERY RANCH BLACKJACK Series Packs

Tuesday, May 12th, 2026

The BLACKJACK name isn’t new. It traces back to indigenous Mobile Guerrilla Force units advised by U.S. Army Special Forces during the Vietnam War. Small teams operating in difficult terrain, often without support, relying on gear that had to work every time.

That thinking carries forward here.

The current BLACKJACK line is modeled after the issue packs MYSTERY RANCH makes for the USSOCOM SPEAR program. They are the product of the same design and development process but with a few small changes for commercial offering.

The most notable difference is that the BLACKJACK packs have 1 inch web and hardware on the compression straps instead of ¾ inch, and the compression is slightly simplified on the 50 liter pack.

The critical throughline of all these packs is the MYSTERY RANCH Military Light Frame (MLF). Utilizing MYSTERY RANCH’s innovative frame construction with four vertical and three horizontal stays made from a nearly indestructible poly-glass composite. It’s rigid vertically for load transfer but moves with the user under load. The system drops a pound from the older NICE Frame design while improving functionality and interface with body armor.

The patented Futura Yoke allows quick micro-adjustments to dial in torso fit. The BVS system stabilizes the pack over armor and can be removed when not needed. It’s built to carry weight well for longer durations, not just for shorter movements.

Across the line, the packs follow the same approach. Consistent layout. Scalable volume. Built for repeatable loadouts.

The BLACKJACK 100 is set up for extended operations with a full sustainment kit, including a dedicated sleeping bag compartment and a removable lid that can be run as a bolt or E&E pack. The BLACKJACK 80 is patrol sized with full-length side access zips for faster entry without unloading everything. The BLACKJACK 50 leans toward assault use. It’s lower profile, more streamlined, but tied into the same ultra capable frame system.

The BLACKJACK 35 was added as an internally framed option, designed specifically for short-duration missions in the 24 to 48-hour range. It keeps the long, lean profile of the platform but strips things back to simplify movement and reduce weight when speed matters more than load carriage.

From short missions to extended sustainment, the BLACKJACK series covers the full range while maintaining the same core design language. These packs started with a requirement and have evolved to meet the moment, whatever the mission may be.

Stop by the MYSTERY RANCH booth to see the BLACKJACK lineup, SOF Select at SOF Week, Tuesday May 19 – Wednesday May 20 at the HILTON TAMPA DOWNTOWN, 211 North Tampa Street, Tampa, FL.

Posted in Advertiser, Guest Post, Packs, SOF Select, SOF Week | No Comments »

BFG Monday: The Burden Was Never the Mission

Monday, May 11th, 2026

For decades, warfighters have accepted unnecessary weight as part of the job.

Extra ounces became extra pounds. Extra pounds became fatigue. Fatigue became slower movement, reduced endurance, and increased physical wear over time. Everyone acknowledged the burden. Few questioned whether it was avoidable.

Blue Force Gear did.

Long before “lightweight” became an industry buzzword, Blue Force Gear engineered a system designed to reduce load carriage weight without sacrificing durability, capability, or compatibility. The result was Helium Whisper®, a patented attachment system that fundamentally changed what modern load-bearing equipment could be.

Helium Whisper pouches reduce weight by up to 50 percent compared to legacy pouch designs while remaining fully MOLLE and PALS compatible. They mount to existing armor carriers, belts, chest rigs, rucks, and issued platforms without requiring units to abandon current equipment investments.

That compatibility matters.

Decision makers responsible for procurement and modernization are not simply evaluating individual products. They are evaluating logistical impact, implementation timelines, sustainment costs, interoperability, and whether new equipment can realistically integrate into an already fielded ecosystem.

Helium Whisper was designed with those realities in mind from the beginning.

Even inconsistencies common in issued MOLLE platforms to include undersized or improperly sewn channels that often prevent rigid tabs from functioning correctly can be accommodated by Helium Whisper’s flexible attachment design. The system works across real-world equipment, not just ideal conditions.

But compatibility alone is not enough.

The equipment also has to survive operational use.

Helium Whisper has been combat proven by some of the nation’s most elite units, carries multiple NSN listings, and has been adopted as standard issue by Air Force Security Forces. Its reputation was not built through marketing claims. It was built through performance under load, in the field and over time.

Reducing weight is not about comfort. It is about increasing mobility, endurance, survivability, and overall combat effectiveness.

A lighter load allows warfighters to move longer, react faster, and carry what actually matters.

The path to a more capable force does not require replacing entire systems. Sometimes it starts with a smarter solution to a problem everyone else learned to tolerate.

The burden is optional. It has been for years.

For units seeking to increase survivability and operational performance through reduced load carriage by upgrading to Helium Whisper, contact the Blue Force Gear Military Department or visit BlueForceGear.com.