Earlier this week Magpul announced their new M-LOK attachment system for mounting accessories to rails. The list of manufacturers adopting the system has really taken off, thanks in part to the ongoing NRA Annual Meeting in Indianapolis, Indiana. I’m happy to see several of my favorites on the list.
I got a chance to check out a prototype of the new Thermal Dry Celliant wetsuit from Excel during last Fall’s Uber University. I was impressed.
Excel has adopted an entirely new next-to-skin material provided by Celliant which offers heat reflective properties; very important for wetsuits. It also helps to mitigate diver fatigue.
In addition to the new material story, Excel also is the exclusive offerer of Crocodile color from Arc’teryx.
These new suits also incorporate design features normally found in surf suits meaning more flexibility for these dive suits. Once again, very helpful for combat divers. They are offering these in 4 thicknesses – 3.5mil, 5.4 mil, 7.6 mil and 8.76 mil. Offered in full suits, shorties, farmer johns and hoods.
Made in USA in Hale Iwa, Hawaii. Available now.
Contact BigMike@excelwetsuits.com
550 FireCord is a project currently up for funding on Kickstarter. It consists of 550 paracord with the inner core replaced with a composite that functions as an fire starting material.
FireCord is completely functional in all the same ways that standard 550 paracord is: it can be made into lanyards and zipper pulls, used as a survival material, etc. While the composite is encased in the paracord sleeve, FireCord is no more volatile than traditional paracord. Outside of the sleeve, the composite ignites with ease, burns very hot, features a long burn time for its volume, and is completely waterproof. Of course, the paracord sleeve is still functional even after the composite core is removed.
This week, Ronnie Fowlkes is back to tell us about the FirstSpear Non-Destructive Marking™ technology. It’s some pretty cool construction stuff that the hard core gear nerds like me will be into.
Ever pick up a FirstSpear product and notice these little white dots on the fabric? I didn’t pay them any mind because I knew what they were there for, but I failed to realize how many don’t know that they are registration markings that help the sewers assemble the item.
Over the years, a variety of methods have been used. Generally, these were chalk or grease pencil markings and later companies starting using drill or punch holes where multiple layers of fabric are stacked up and cut in a single operation. At the same time, a small diameter drill or punch is used to put holes in the fabric that help guide the folks running the sewing machines. While this method is quick, it does introduce a new hole into the fabric, ultimately compromising its integrity.
FirstSpear has taken a different approach than even the hand markings used for so long. Their Non-Destructive Marking™ technology instead relies on a water-soluble marking pen system specifically designed for FirstSpear. It allows them to place sewing guides right on the fabric for their sewing specialists to use on the manufacturing floor without permanently altering or damaging the material. Their “white dot” process takes more time but helps sustain overall material integrity. Additionally, those white dots are easily removed with a toothbrush and some water.
So now you know. Those “errant white marks” on your FirstSpear kit aren’t so errant after all. They are a deliberate production technique that is easily removed with water or through some use during a trip to the field.
A while back, CTOMS, through their Private Bloggins site, posted an article featuring self testing of the Raptor buckle in order to determine if it was a suitable replacement for the AustriAplin Cobra buckles in use on their X-belts and M-harnesses.
Recently, they’ve written a follow up to that original round of testing. This time, instead of conducting their own comparative testing, they posted the results of a study conducted by independent testing company TÜV SÜD at the request of AustriAlpin. AustriAlpin supplied 5 Cobra and Raptor buckles of each size for evaluation; the Raptor buckles were sourced by 3rd parties from online suppliers of the buckles.
Through the testing results, it was determined that Raptor Buckles bend and brake consistently below the direct pull stamped rating. Those interested in viewing TÜV SÜD’s test results can view them by clicking the image below:
McNett is currently giving away samples of their new Camo Form LT. A lighter weight, less expensive version of the original Camo Form, Camo Form LT stretches to twice its length and will be available in several new patterns.
You can sign up to receive your sample here: www.mcnett.com/tactical/lt-free-sample
SSFN’s LandCamo ADB fabric is now available for purchase on the LandCamo website. ADB SERE on 100% COT and ABD MAMMUT on 35% PES / 65% COT are the two patterns currently being offered. To order, contact info@landcamo.si.
Thanks to the guys at DriFire, I had a chance to check out a new line of clothing made from American wool. Look for more on this exciting brand soon.
The benefits of wool are well known; warm even when wet, naturally anti-microbial and no-melt no-drip. Plus, in this case, it’s grown, processed and manufactured right here in the USA.
