Archive for the ‘Materials’ Category
Duraflex Buckle Style Guide
Thursday, April 11th, 2013So What’s This 6/9 Technology We Keep Talking About?
Wednesday, April 10th, 2013
Recently, I mentioned FirstSpear’s new 6/9 Modular Pocket Technology. Several friends immediately wrote to me thinking I had published a typo. Assuredly, FirstSpear has their 6/12 technology but what’s this 6/9 think we keep talking about?
Really, it’s pretty simple. FirstSpear developed this really cool, proprietary pouch attachment system called 6/12. Thing is, not everybody is ready for change. So, they went back to the drawing board and came up with the 6/9 Modular Pocket Technology, a completely backwards compatible PALS-style attachment system which holds the pouch closer to the platform than traditional MOLLE and also features weight savings (no snap or plastic stiffener). In fact, it holds pouches so much closer that the initial M4 mag shingles couldn’t be worn directly below an admin pouch on the front of a vest. Traditional PALS makes them stick out far enough that you can generally draw a magazine without hitting the pouch above. Not so with the new 6/9 equipped pouches. They fit so closely to the platform that there’s no standoff. Look below and you’ll see how 6/9 is a bit of a hybrid. They’ve used laser cut backers on the pouch combined with a woven strap that is similar to PALS.
Great idea, but, what to name it? 6/12 was named to signify that you are fully ready for action. The witty guys at FirstSpear thought about it and decided that if 6/12 is all the way there, then the 6/9 system will get you about half way, acknowledging it’s an improvement, and a pretty popular one at that. In fact, so much so, that after this Summer, FirstSpear will no longer offer PALS attachments on any of their pouches except via minimum quantity special order. So don’t fear 6/9 but rather embrace it if you must continue to rely on traditional MOLLE systems.
National Molding 2013 Catalog
Tuesday, April 2nd, 2013National Molding has released their 2013 catalog which includes the Quad Release system (used in IOTV Gen III) and its little brother the Evil Twin (a two point release system) designed for plate carriers.
Palspocket – New from Hill People Gear
Friday, March 29th, 2013HPG has introduced a very cool new modular pocket for their packs. Called the Palspocket, it was created by adapting the material used in FirstSpear’s 6/12 technology. They turned the material inside out which boasts a Velcro backer. Thanks to the laser cut PALS compatible holes combined with the Velcro pile you can affix other pouches and equipment to the interior of the Palspocket. At just 8 ounces, it’s 9″x17″x3″ and offers a 6 channels / 7 rows PALS grid. It’s very innovative.
HPG offers is description as well –
The Palspocket is a relatively shallow panel loading compression panel / pocket where the interior side is a full 6/12 panel. You can mount PALS or Velcro backed accessories inside, or you can mount PALS accessories to the back side in between the Palspocket and the host pack.
S&S Precision Introduces PullTabs
Monday, March 25th, 2013S&S Precision knew they could make a better pull tab for bungees used on tactical gear and I’m impressed with their solution. S&S PullTabs are a rubberized replacement for the sewn pull tabs we are used to encountering. The material selection means your fingers won’t slip and the design’s wide base offers repeatability and correct orientation every time they are used. Much like the Weebles of yore, they always settle back in place up right, ready for instant use. Additionally, installation is simple meaning anyone can do it.
Available in Tan, Black and Toad Vine (a SSP color similar to MAS Grey) for individuals as well as cut and sew shops who want to integrate PullTabs into their products. These are cool and I can tell you that I will be putting them on my gear.
What Could Be Going On Here?
Friday, March 22nd, 2013
XGO to Introduce Flame Retardant Mesh to 2013 Line
Tuesday, March 19th, 2013
XGO is adding a new line of Flame Retardant Mesh to their 2013 collection. Featuring increased breathability and increased stretch as a result of the mesh construction, the line will initially consist of a short and long sleeve top, boxer brief, and neck pipe.
“The evolution of the FR mesh is a direct result of having so our warfighters tell us that, in their FR base layer, they needed something that would breathe and provide some air permeability under their other protective pieces,” says Sherry Lyons, Director of Global Sales for XGO. She goes on to explain, “while it meets the U.S. Military / Natick standards for FR, it also wicks and allows the flow of air for increased comfort.”
The FR Mesh line will be available April 2013 through select retailers and online at proxgo.com.
Blue Force Gear Licenses Helium Whisper to STRATAGEM
Monday, March 11th, 2013
Blue Force Gear has licensed the Helium Whisper pouch attachment system to STRATAGEM which becomes the first international brand to integrate the technology into their product line.
“We at STRATAGEM are proud to be working with Blue Force Gear and use Helium Whisper as a component of our products,” said Markus Jahn, STRATAGEM’s CEO. “Helium Whisper allows us to grant our customers access to an outstanding technology, giving them the benefit of lighter and more efficient equipment by reducing the weight of our pouches dramatically. It enables us to raise the level of our pouches and to fulfill our aspiration of providing cutting edge products to today’s warfighter.”
“STRATAGEM is a top quality German company who services the elite with quality gear. We’re proud they’ve chosen Helium Whisper to help lighten the load of their customers,” said Doug Duggan, Blue Force Gear’s International Business Development Manager.
Helium Whisper allows modular pouch backs to be constructed from a single piece of high-performance laminate versus the multiple straps and snaps of outdated designs. This amazing breakthrough increases strength and durability of pouches while eliminating failure points and reducing weight by up to 60 percent. Helium Whisper licensing allows OEM customers to reduce sewing costs, minimize alignment errors, maintain or increase durability, and stay relevant to today’s weight-conscious military customers.
