A lot of SSD readers have seen the FirstSpear Das Ding and come away scratching their head. I saw it and immediately thought ‘SERE’ but it’s really designed for anytime that you need a nontraditional load carrying solution. Das Ding is German for ‘The Thing’ and that’s a pretty apt description. It’s a thing that adapts to the mission and kind of reminds me of a money belt on steroids.
Made from Tweave, Das Ding incorporates 11 sewn pockets that allow you to configure your load any way you like. Once you’ve got it loaded, you slightly stretch Das Ding when you put it on. Then you overlay the Velcro panels to close it around you.
There’s plenty of contact with a 4.5″ x 6″ hook panel that connects to an even larger loop panel for adjustability. Additionally, you can close it in front or rear based on where you want to carry your load. You may want a smooth front or perhaps you want to be able to reach inside your jacket to access something.
One thing to note. Das Ding is really adaptable. We set it up several ways and in these photos you see a pistol. It’s not intended for use as a holster, but you can carry one if you need to.
It will take virtually any of the items you would carry as first line gear: survival gear, radio, magazines, first-aid items, even a side arm. It will also accept more specialized kit such as GPS, camera, smart phone, etc.
Das Ding holds your gear close to your body. Once I put on this cardigan, you couldn’t see the equipment carried by Das Ding.
A Squadron Smock or other large coat literally swallows it.
In addition to the inherent compression offered by the Tweave, Das Ding’s pockets incorporate grip enhancement panels as well as optional security stretch cords with pulltabs in order to help secure the load.
Designed to be worn alone or in conjunction with the Assault Gunners Belt and can also be incorporated with armor, worn as a single strap.
Das Ding is offered in sizes Small – XLarge in Black, Ranger Green, Coyote and MultiCam.
-Eric Graves
A lifelong shooter and outdoorsman, Eric is retired from the US Air Force and also served in the US Army. After retiring from military service Eric also worked in industry and has served as the Editor of Soldier Systems Daily since launching the site in May of 2008.
