I was first introduced to Gatorz Eyewear by one of my Platoon Sergeants when I saw him wearing them while doing jumpmaster checks on the airfield. He eventually packed them for our deployment, which surprised me since we were all issued a competitor that everyone already loved. However, after getting his feedback, and trying the […]
Urban EDC
The Durable Field Watch from 5.11 Tactical UPDATED
“Our popular Field Watch has been upgraded, retaining all the best features while adding phosphorescent Super-LumiNova® hour and second hands for readability in dark conditions, along with an easy-to-see date window. Topped with a scratch-resistant mineral crystal and water resistant to 330 feet, this Japanese-movement watch shuns the abuse of hard use. A unidirectional ratcheting […]
Thoughts on the new 5.11 Tactical RUSH12 Version 2.0 Pack
I’ve been using an earlier version of the 5.11 RUSH12 backpack as my EDC and travel pack for the past two years. And it’s definitely one of my favorites. At the beginning of 2021 5.11 announced their updated line of RUSH packs, the 2.0 series with some clever enhanced features. I was immediately interested as […]
A killer OTF knife from SOG | The American made Pentagon
New from Studies and Observations Group (SOG), comes the American made Out The Front Pentagon. Designed and built with the professional in mind, this fast deploying automatic knife is rock solid when needed most. Utilizing SOG’s Dynamic Locking System, the Pentagon is one of the sturdiest OTF knifes once deployed. A common problem with OTF […]
ZT0230 Slip-joint Folding Knife | Jens Ansø Collaboration
Minimalist design meet maximum performance in the new ZT0230 from Danish designer Jens Ansø When I first received the ZT0230 for review, I had mixed feelings on this design. Up until now, all of my folding knives have one form of locking mechanism or another. This slip-joint design is a non locking pocket knife. This […]
SOG Ultra XR (Review)
Now available from Studies and Observations Group, the new Ultra XR exudes quality and refinement. This compact reboot of SOG’s original Ultra C-Ti includes several upgrades. An improved XR locking mechanism, slimmer profile, TiNi coated parts, and a sharp new look. After meeting with Studies and Observations Group in their hometown of Seattle this past […]
TechCapsule 2.8L from Phoozy | Essential Everyday Carry Pouch
As a frequent traveler, I’m always looking for the best way to pack and organize my gear. Typically, I prefer to carry my luggage on the aircraft versus checking bags. So maximizing organization is a key component to fitting everything into a carry-on. Phoozy, best known for their thermal protective cases for tablets and phones. […]
Wazoo Survival gear Cache Cap
“It’s a completely inconspicuous way to carry your gear. On your head, the Cache Cap looks like your everyday hat. What you don’t see, is that on the inside this cap has 6, count ’em, SIX HIDDEN POCKETS!” ~wazoogear.com I’m a hat guy. It’s rare that I leave the house that I don’t have a ball […]
Planning for the worst case scenario | Emergency Escape Pod
In the first Bourne movie there is a scene where Jason Bourne goes to a bank and accesses a safe deposit box. In the box are various forms of identification, cash and a pistol. He takes the ID and cash and begins his journey to avoid the forces looking to capture or kill him. I […]
5.11’s Low-Vis Tactical Sneaker | Norris Low
When the high-top Norris sneaker was first introduced by 5.11 Tactical awhile back, we were one of the first to get our hands on a pair and post a review. Now they’ve chopped the top and are pushing the new Norris Low Sneaker. Not much has changed in build and materials other than the obvious. […]
Claymore 9070SBK | An Explosive Automatic Design from Benchmade
Benchmade recently set out to design a full frame, full size automatic knife. Yet take out as much weight as possible without compromising strength. What happened next is the Claymore 9070SBK. The strongest knife to date in the automatic line-up. Incorporating a wicked tough CPM-D2 steel for the blade. And borrowing several design cues from […]
Consider adding the NeoMag to your EDC toolbox
FRAGO: Let’s get some housekeeping items out of the way from the jump. I was never a Tier 1 Operator or a member of the Special Operations community. I served an enlisted tour as an infantryman in the U.S. Army in the early nineties and was fortunate to attend some great courses & schools, as […]
Able Carry MAX Backpack | Taking Everyday Further
When I was asked to review another travel backpack, I honestly was less enthused. I mean, how different can one be from another. And it feels like I’ve tested my fair share of them over the years. When I opened the package from Able Carry, a relatively new Hong Kong based company, I was pleasantly […]
Zero Tolerance ZT0850 | Custom Collaboration Perfection
Recognizing the artistic genius of legendary knife builders, Dmitry Sinkevich and Todd Rexford, Zero Tolerance saw no other choice than to commission a custom collaboration. And with that, the ZT0850 was born. I’m not sure if this is a daily use knife or a collector’s item so bear with me. Priced at $400, this thing of […]