MATBOCK’s Backhand GPS carrier
Yesterday, something rare happened on SSD. A small manufacturer named MATBOCK LLC released the Backhand GPS carrier. A couple of readers recognized the item as a copy of the LBT GPS Palm Pouch.
LBT GPS Palm Pouch
Within hours, MATBOCK removed the item from their website, refunded those who had ordered the product and posted this statement in the discussion area of our website:
“Gentlemen,
Thank you for coming forward and pointing this out. We at MATBOCK sincerely apologize for this situation. Our goal is to develop innovative gear and get it to the operators who need it. We had heard a piece of equipment like this existed but could turn up no evidence of it during a search before pushing forward to build it ourselves. As of today, we will no longer be producing or selling this product and will direct any attention for it over to LBT. Our sincerest apologies.
MATBOCK LLC”
With that statement they took the moral high ground and set the bar pretty high. I’ve spent some time with the MATBOCK guys and I can tell you that they are very aware that the most important thing they have is their reputation. They could have gone ahead and built that product since in reality, it is a modification of an altimeter wrist carrier for skydiving. But they didn’t. They want to concentrate on products that nobody else builds.
I spoke with them after they made their decision and discussed the idea that it might be difficult to build products in the future based on this position. They understand and stand by their decision. I hope for their sake, that others play by their rules.
I have to say, that while I’m no fan of copying, having several companies build similar products is healthy for the market and great for the consumer. A little competition drives innovation, ensures quality and helps control prices. It’s important that my readers know that LBT didn’t let out a peep about this. They didn’t say word one about the MATBOCK product.
In the end, I wonder if the readers who said it was a copy knew that there were altimeter carriers that pre-dated both pouches. And I wonder if they knew that these have built in rigger sheds for years. I’m guessing they didn’t. If they did, they probably wouldn’t have said anything.
It’s a tough time to be starting out in the tactical business but I think these guys are going to make it. They’ve got a great attitude and while their product line is small, they deserve your business if their wares meet your needs.
