Due to an uptick in demand, Blue Force Gear has decided to release its much anticipated E-Tool Carrier early for military unit sales. The demand stems from a shift in TTPs at the highest levels. Expected to start shipping 1st quarter of 2018, the pouch is 30% lighter than the issued carrier and adds reinforcement areas for those who like to put a razor edge on the blade for use as a CQB weapon.
For the past several years, Mustang Survival has been working to introduce a new inflatable life preserver. What they’ve come up with is so low profile and lightweight, it changes the way we will look at them. While the SOF LPU only weights 1 lbs, it provides 40 lbs of bouyancy. The biggest contributor to this weight savings is a new ultralightweight membrane film, used for the inflation chamber.
But Mustang Survival didn’t build this new system in a vacuum. I first saw a prototype at last summer’s Warrior East. At that point, they’d already been working for five years with ADS to refine the form, fit, and function of what would eventually become the Mustang SOF LPU. But over the last six months that collaboration, conducting some pretty significant customer engagement and feedback, as well as market analysis, looks to have really paid off. In fact, the two companies have been working together for 20 years, since the whole Diving Equipment Prime Vendor program started.
Since my first look, they’ve brought in long-time partner CM Hammar to develop a new programmable inflator which allows the user to configure it to trigger inflation by depth, time submerged in water, or a combination of both. They are also working together to identify and validate a next generation electronic inflator technology for the SOF LPU.
However, the SOF LPU will be offered in three configurations which fit the operational profiles of most LPU users. The MD1500 utilizes a Programmable automatic inflator, MD1501 utilizes HIT Hydrostatic inflator, and MD1502 utilizes Hammar’s new manual inflator.
That video was shot during a demonstration in a Norfolk pool in November. When we discussed the history of the project, Mustang Survival reps told me that a SOF customer had initially approached them, asking if they could integrate a new life preserver into their armor vest. Mustang Survival took a look at how many different vests had been in use at that organization and suggested that they instead create an appliqué which could be attached to any vest. PALS compatibility seemed like the best answer.
It’s being referred to as a SOF LPU, but everyone who currently uses some form of inflatable LPU is going to want this. Not only can it be attached to equipment via PALS webbing, but they’ve also created a stand alone harness so the LPU can be worn alone. That’s great for over the water Helo passengers, parachutists during admin jumps and small boat passengers. Additionally, SOLAS retro-reflective tape or GLINT can be attached to the inflation chamber via hook and loop to support those TTPs which use those markings.
Because of the SOF LPU’s low profile, the wearer will barely know it’s there. It’s not going to impede movement or situational awarenes. In the event of inflation, the chamber is out front, above any equipment such as ammunition, first aid kit, or radios. That way, the wearer can still access that gear.
The SOF LPU will be offered in Sepia, MultiCam, Coyote Tan and Black.
ADS and Mustang Survival will be jointly launching the SOF LPU at SHOT Show 2018 (January 23-26 in Las Vegas).
MYSTERY RANCH, an industry-leading pack company built on a heritage of function, comfort, quality and durability, announced today the internal promotion of Ryan Holm to the new position of Marketing Director. Holm has been with the company since 2011 during which he led the marketing efforts for the new Mountain and Hunting product categories, the relaunch of the brand’s overhauled website and online sales platform. Ryan has also steadfastly led the project management for the department.
“Mystery Ranch has seen steady growth over the past few years and it’s time for our team to grow as well. We are really happy to announce Ryan Holm being promoted to Director of Marketing,” said Alex Kutches, Vice President of Mystery Ranch. “Ryan is a collaborative leader who balances his efforts with effective project management, working well with other teams to deliver to their needs, supporting his team and all of this while being true to the brand promise here at MYSTERY RANCH. I am proud to have him on my team and looking forward to the years ahead,”
Later this month, MYSTERY RANCH will be attending the Outdoor Retailer Winter Market in Denver, January 26-29, Booth UL49111 and the SHOT Show in Las Vegas, January 23-26, Booth 7409 – Military & Booth 15732 – Hunting.
Although Hodge Defense Systems will continue to offer their Wedge Lock rails, you’ll be able to check it out their new Pinch Lock Rail during SHOT Show at FN USA’s booth.
This new rail attaches to the carbine via a Pinch Lock System and will be offered in 10.75”, 11.5” and 13.65” lengths.
Mystery Ranch is introducing their new Blackjack series of packs. With 3 sizes, 50, 80 and 100 liters, these packs cover the gamut of larger military load carriage needs. The Blackjack packs are the commercially available versions of the standard-issue USSOCOM SPEAR packs.
All Blackjack series packs use MR’s new lightweight frame that features a Dyneema-Cordura laminate over full-carbon frame stays, stowable waist belt and lighter, smaller bolsters for stability over armor. The packs themselves all feature new IR-compliant, water-repellent YKK zippers and 500D Cordura fabric treated with a Teflon face coating and a tough polyurethane back coating. All 3 packs are top-loaders with removable lids, side access zippers and a port for radio or hydration access. The Blackjack 50 has two large front pockets, while the 80 has four total pockets, 1 large and 3 smaller. The Blackjack 100 is the same as the 80, but adds a sleep system compartment on the bottom.
Available now, you can check them out in person at SHOT show, booth #7409.
Chase Tactical will be a 2018 SHOT Show NEXT exhibitor. We’ll be located in Booth N251 where we’ll have the newest generation of Disruptive Combat Pants in Ranger Green and Woodland along with our Ballistic Armor product line and Warrior Assault Systems products. If you would like to set up a meeting with Chase Tactical we can be contacted at support@chasetactical.com
O P Tactical has an exclusive partnership with Klim to sell their Multicam Vigilant uniform. Built specifically for mobility operations and for wear over a Crye Combat Uniform with JPC. This Gore-Tex (also available in FR version) is state of the art and carries many user specified features that make it one of the best deals on the market. This is not for wearing to the grocery store, it’s built specifically for long range mobility operations while wearing kit. I also serves as a great level 6 uniform for full weather protection on all operations.
These uniforms are first come, first serve, and ship directly to the consumer from Klim. This item is priced to go, and will be discontinued when supplies are depleted.
Product Description:
KLIM® invented the formula for creating superior technical apparel, which is designed to dominate the full spectrum of environments and situations. KLIM® carries a history and prestige of developing the most technical snow and motorcycle apparel on the market with gear that protects against the most extreme elements while enhancing the user’s experience.
The KTS™ VIGILANT™ Jacket and Pant are weatherproof, flame-resistant (Optional) (no-melt, no-drip, no-fuse), extremely durable and offer operator-specific functionality that will perform as it needs to when the unpredictable occurs.
FLAME-RESISTANT (Optional)
There are a number of reasons to wear flame-resistant garments – from the catastrophic to the negligible and from the frequent to the unlikely; explosion, burning fuel, flame, hot gun barrels, hot vehicle exhaust, hot parts, hot shells, drying near a fire and many other day-to-day risks.
Designed with a flame retardant Nomex® outer layer and a durably waterproof, windproof, and breathable GORE-TEX® fabric, the KTS™ VIGILANT™ Jacket and Pant keep the user comfortable by allowing moisture to escape from the garment. GORE-TEX® fabric maintains protection over time, even after exposure to JP-8, DEET, petroleum, oils, and lubricants.
KIT ACCESS
Preparing for your day brings up several questions: Will the gear fit over my body armor? If I zip up my gear how quickly will I be able to access my kit? Will my gear hold up to unpredictable circumstances? Should I sacrifice comfort or protection?
Now you don’t have to choose. The KTS™ VIGILANT™ Jacket and Pant are designed from the ground up to be compatible with your body armor (specifically, a stand-alone plate carrier) and accessories while simultaneously being weatherproof and breathable.
The front entry panel with magnetic closure allows quick access to center-mounted magazines while the jacket is fully zipped.
The body armor gusset on the back of the jacket prevents any constriction of movement and allows room for your kit on the back of the plate carrier.
Zippered entries allow access to kit on your sides and back without removing or unzipping the jacket.
WEATHERPROOF
KLIM® gear is extensively field-tested in rain, dirt, snow and wind to ensure it exceeds the highest standards and passes GORE-TEX® quality requirements. The KTS™ VIGILANT™ Jacket and Pant are GUARANTEED TO KEEP YOU DRY® with all of your kit in place underneath.
DURABILITY
Your TTPs and physical training exist to allow you to react and respond in any situation. Your gear must support the TTPs and keep up with your activity level and the conditions in which you find yourself. The KTS™ VIGILANT™ Jacket and Pant are heavy-duty combat-ready shells.
TACTICAL ATHLETE
The KTS™ VIGILANT’s fit is designed for the Tactical Athlete’s body, articulated to compliment your range of motion and is constructed with Nomex® thread, bartac-reinforced stress points and Superfabric® strategically placed in high-wear areas. The entire system is machine washable and will continue to deliver through many assignments.
-Heavy duty, combat ready, weatherproof, and flame resistant (optional) weather Gore-Tex shell designed to be worn over kit
-Guaranteed to keep you dry
-Gore-Tex superfabric in high wear areas
-Direct magazine access front pocket with magnet closures
-Cell tag/ IFF panel exposed when accessing mag
-Concealed cell tag/ IFF panel on front access panel
-Playbook pockets on each forearm with magnetic cover and zippered closure for security
-Ability to operate touch screens on devices stored in playbook pockets
-Expansion back with gusseted/ zippered/ magnet closure control for kit
-Operator cut removabale sleeves at bicep line (can be stored in kangaroo pocket)
-Three-headed side zips for accessing kit and ventilation
-Adjustable back vents/ access point
-Kit access from front/ side/ back
-Bar tack reinforcements of all stress joints
-High quality YKK zippers
-Magnet dot closures
-Zipper security flaps
-Shock cord adjustments on bottom hem and neckline
-Front kangaroo pocket
-Kill switch D-Ring for mobility operations
-Heavy duty, combat ready, weatherproof, and flame resistant (optional) weather Gore-Tex shell designed to be worn over kit
-Guaranteed to keep you dry
-Gore-Tex superfabric in high wear areas
-Direct magazine access front pocket with magnet closures
-Cell tag/ IFF panel exposed when accessing mag
-Concealed cell tag/ IFF panel on front access panel
-Playbook pockets on each forearm with magnetic cover and zippered closure for security
-Ability to operate touch screens on devices stored in playbook pockets
-Expansion back with gusseted/ zippered/ magnet closure control for kit
-Operator cut removabale sleeves at bicep line (can be stored in kangaroo pocket)
-Three-headed side zips for accessing kit and ventilation
-Adjustable back vents/ access point
-Kit access from front/ side/ back
-Bar tack reinforcements of all stress joints
-High quality YKK zippers
-Magnet dot closures
-Zipper security flaps
-Shock cord adjustments on bottom hem and neckline
-Front kangaroo pocket
-Kill switch D-Ring for mobility operationsKlim warrants *every product they make to be free of manufacturer defects for the **lifetime of the product. Additionally, all KLIM GORE-TEX® products are GUARANTEED TO KEEP YOU DRY® for the **lifetime of the product. If these products fail due to a manufacturing or material defect, Klim will repair the product without charge, or replace it at their discretion. This warranty is not transferable.
** The lifetime of a product unfortunately does not mean your lifetime. The intensity under which the product is used determines this factor. Rips, tears, cuts, punctures, burns, accidents, improper care, negligence, normal wear-and-tear, modifications, alterations or use for a purpose other than which the product designed will void the lifetime warranty of even if the warranty issue is not related to these damages.
Raine is launching a Kickstarter for our MOLLE Cover for Tubes™ Cummerbunds!
(Help us come up with a better name for this product. Write your suggestion in the comments section. If it’s selected, you will receive one as a thank you. Use a valid email address for us to contact you if your name is selected).
www.kickstarter.com/projects/256206016/molle-cover-for-tubestm-cummerbunds-plate-carriers
In development and testing for 2 years, the Raine MOLLE Cover for Tubes™ cummerbunds gives you back the MOLLE real-estate lost from using FirstSpear® Tubes™ quick release hardware on a plate carrier and body armor vest.
The MOLLE Cover is compatible with all FirstSpear® platforms, does not interfere with the Tubes™ quick release function, and securely attaches to Tubes™ cummerbunds like a second skin.
Features:
Adds back the MOLLE real-estate lost from using FirstSpear® Tubes™
Smooth quick release function
Covers and protects FirstSpear® Tubes™ hardware
Increases service life of Tubes™ hardware
Increased protection from accidental quick release opening of Tubes™ hardware
Attachment options compatible with MOLLE, FirstSpear® 6/12™, and 6/9™ platforms.
Ambidextrous (Can be used on the left or right cummerbund)
Colors: Coyote Brown, Ranger Green, Black, and Multicam
LIFETIME WARRANTY
Made in the USA
Patent Pending
SHOT Show
Come see samples at SHOT Show, we have two booth locations.
Schedule:
Shot Show Main Floor, Booth # 20132 (Tues – Fri)
Shot Show Supplier Show Case, Booth # S1440 (Mon – Tues)
We are currently looking for dealers, distributors, companies that would like to have us integrate Raine designs into their product lines, and contract sewing customers.
Email us at shotshow@raineinc.com to schedule a meeting.
Disclaimer:
FirstSpear®, Tubes™, 6/12™ and 6/9™ are trademarks of FirstSpear, LLC. Products shown with these trademarks are built with FirstSpear Technology™.
