Slumberjack has sent along a gallery of photos showing off a few more items in the SJK Tactical Hunting Gear line while in use. Most of the new packs as well as the new rifle case/shooting mat are featured in the photos. None of the products were named for us, however the line will be fully revealed at the upcoming SHOT Show 2014.
Around 1999 SOCOM started issuing a pack system by Gregory/Bianchi, commercially called the UM21. Affectionately, it was known by many who used it as the StrapMaster 2000 for the outrageously long Black 1″ webbing found all over the main pack. Usually issued in Woodland there were a limited number manufactured in 3-Color Desert camo, primarily for 5th Group.
This photo of a burdened mule was taken very early in Operation Enduring Freedom during the so-called Horse Soldier operations. It remains my favorite photo of the UM-21 because one look at the mule’s face and you’ll see how everyone felt while carrying that beast. In fact, you won’t run across many photos of troops actually wearing the Main Pack. Although it did incorporate a few innovative features, the Main Pack was partially manufactured from rubberized fabric and was heavy even when empty. The Main Pack (with PALS compatible side pockets), Patrol Pack and Butt Pack along with 5 stuff sacks made up the system weighing 17 lbs all told.
Although it was fielded as part of the Special Operations Forces Personal Equipment Advanced Requirements (SPEAR) program, it’s design and selection pre-dated the team that fielded such great items as the MICH, MLCS, PCU and SOF Handwear. In fact, it was developed before the Family of Packs was broken out as a separate program from Body Armor/Load Carrying System (BALCS). BALCS ALSO included body armor as well as an Enhanced Load Carrying System subsystems in addition to the UM21.
To learn more, download the UM21 manual.
Slumberjack will be releasing their SJK Tactical Hunting Gear line during SHOT Show, which was developed using input from highly experienced hunters. The line includes packs, insulated tree stand bags, and tents, and is constructed from lightweight, durable materials using Kryptek camouflage. Below is a preview of 3 of the products that will be available under the SJK Tactical Hunting Gear brand.
Bounty 4500
The Bounty 4500 is a 74-liter pack designed for high elevation hunts and big game. It features an expandable load-carry system which allows meat to be carried close to the back for better load support. The Bounty also features a detachable day pack with organizational pockets, a built-in rifle shooting platform, and a main pack bag that can be completely removed from the frame. The military-grade, dual stay suspension system supports heavy loads over long distances on uneven terrain. A stowable, versatile weapon carry system accommodates rifles or bows and large twin side pockets carry optics, bipods, and other essentials.
Thermal Cloak
The Thermal Cloak is designed to offer protection from the elements as well as act as a personal blind. Tactical hood styling allows the wearer to maintain peripheral vision and hearing. The fabrics used are waterproof and seam taped to repel wind, rain, and snow, while 160g of synthetic insulation keeps the wearer warm. The bottom of the cloak is open to allow the wearer to feel the edges of their tree stand to ensure proper footing. The cloak can also be cinched up around the wearer’s knees for increased mobility. The arm ports are self-sealing (via magnets) that allow for the wearer to move into a firing position. The front zipper and hand warmer pocket help regulate temperature.
Sightline
The Sightline was developed specifically for overnight hunting trips – available in 1 and 2 person versions. It features a field-of-view window to maximize line-of-sight for glassing game. A rifle-specific sleeve allows the user to keep their weapon close at hand. It uses light and durable 7001 aluminum poles, and a full coverage rain fly with taped seams which repels even the hardest downpours with little effort. The Sightline comes with a dark green rainfly to help it blend into the environment.
By: Richard Graves, Staff Writer
USIA has a bag specifically for the USAF PJ community, designed with their direct inputting.
It wouldn’t be much good if all of the contents got wet so it integrates a YKK waterproof zipper making it divable to 130 ft. It has also been certified for airborne operations by the USAF.
The bag is slightly larger than the Special Operations Forces Aidman’s Bag. USIA integrated the O2 system into the pack and added a little more room than is in their 2400 sq in SOFA Aidman’s Pack.
ATS Tactical Gear is offering their Cobra 2.6 Low Signature Back Packs in civilian colors such as the two-tone Black and Grey.
Originally developed several years ago for a Navy customer, these Low Signature Packs incorporate brushed DriLex interiors to allow for customization via compatibility with ATS CAP (Cobra Accessory Pouch) line of organizing pouches or similar other brands. It also has a bit more of a commercial pack feel with the shock cord matrix on to the face to allow for the stowage of lightweight items like jackets and the like. There is also a hydration carrier slot in the back face and a center mounted port for drink tubes and cable routing.
Honor Point has released images of their new ZOT ZERO + admin pack. Integrating their Zip Off Technology, it’s built on the same frame as the ZOT ZERO. Its designed as a multi-functional, low-profile, lightweight pack, with additional customization options when compared to the original ZERO.
Available soon on www.honorpointusa.com/
