Friday, March 28, 2014
Friday, January 24, 2014
"Machine gun" leggings - warning on size
I got these leggings labeled "machine gun leggings from The Cultlabel (www.thecultlabel.com) for my girlfriend. They feature an M16 style rifle on one leg and a pistol in a garter on the other.
They were labeled as one size fits all. When they arrived my girlfriend tried them on to discover that they are made for extremely short women. My girlfriend is only 5ft 4in tall, but the waist would only come up to mid thigh. We decided we'd have to return them and buy a different style we found on eBay. I wrote to The Cultlabel regarding a return. They wrote back stating that they do not refund for items that are the incorrect size. They will only refund if the wrong item was shipped or the item was defective. We were disappointed with this since we spent over $20 for these and they are now useless to her. So be warned when you see these online and especially if ordering from The Cultlabel.
If you support Gear Geeks, search "the cultlabel" on facebook and express your concern regarding other return policy or email them at info@thecultlabel com
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
Tactical Mic Keeper
This is an excellent product that I can't believe has just been invented. I don't know how many times my microphone for my portable radio has come flying off my uniform. This product takes care of that problem. The Tactical Mic Keeper (TMK) attaches securely to your uniform button and then your mic clips to it and doesn't come off unless you decide you want it to come off. Brilliant. I love this and suggest anyone carrying a portable radio with mic use one...especially if your life may depend on effective communication.
Shoot, move, communicate!
The TMK
MSRP: $9.95
Saturday, January 15, 2011
Gear Geek's Shirts
I'm thinking of getting some shirts made up. If anyone is interested get me your size and how many and I'll get you a quote back. Cost depends on quantity ordered.
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
ReviveX Wash-in Water Repellent
Wearing and washing your water repellent garments in normal detergents will reduce the water repellent nature of your outerwear. You'll start to notice what McNett calls "wet-out". I've personally experienced this and is when the outer layer of your garment absorbs water. Now, most high end wet weather garments use a waterproof breathable layer with a more durable water repellent outer layer and a soft inner layer. Some garments just use a treatment to the garment instead of a waterproof layer. This treatment can help both.
For a garment with a water repellent treatment, this product will help restore it's properties.
For a garment that has a waterproof layer, generally washing doesn't effect this layer if done according to the manufacturers guidelines. However, wear and washing can effect the outer water repellent layer and cause "wet-out". This needs to be fixed for a couple reasons. One, this is another layer of protection against water. Two, when "wet-out" occurs it's more likely that water will seep in through seams and zippers. And, three, the "wet-out" prevents proper breathability of the garment because of the absorbed water.
I've used this product on several garments. I wouldn't say the water repellent nature is 100% back to "like new", but it does greatly increase the beading on the outer layer, where before the water would absorb.
It's always good to use a specialized treatment when you wash your water repellent garments, and the McNett wash-in water repellent concentrate does the job.
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Tuff-Writer tactical pen
When I was in the Marines, one rule was...you always have a couple pens with you at all times. It's one of those Marine Corps things. Well...most other professionals in the law enforcement, military, and security fields carry a pen as a daily piece of gear as well.
The Tuff-Writer has taken the pen to a new level. The Tuff-Writer is just as tough as it's name implies. Made of 6061-T6 Aerospace Grade Aluminum, the Tuff-writer sports a tactical finish that is hard anodized to Mil-A-8625 “F” specifications. This extremely hard finish doesn't wear off very easily. When it comes to toughness nothing was spared. The clip is made of cold pressed spring steel with nickel oxide finish and all connections are made with Black oxide stainless steel bolts and chemical welding. When you hold this pen you can tell it's made to last and take plenty of abuse.
Like i said earlier...I like a piece of gear that has multiple uses. This pen is not only a pen, but also a great defensive weapon. One end is more blunt to be used to strike or put pressure on pressure points for pain compliance, come-alongs, etc, etc. The other end is more pointed for even greater pain compliance.
Yet a third use for this pen is that the pointed striking end can also be used as a a stylus point on a PDA or other touch screen device.
The pen/defensive tool has some deep knurling on it to help you maintain a good grip on it. Make sure, however, that anything you put in a pocket next to this pen is just as durable. If you put a regular Bic style pen next to this pen in a pocket, the knurling will tear it up a bit.
The clip on this pen is also slightly bent up from the body of the pen...this makes clipping to the pocket or other area easily done and with one hand.
The hole you see in the cap, I assume is for a key ring for retention purposes when using as a self defense tool. I would prefer this hole be slightly larger so that a piece of 550 cord can be put through this hole for retention on the body when being carried. For instance, wearing the pen around the neck, or attaching it via a piece of 550 cord to the MOLLE/PALS webbing of a vest. The reason I would like this as an option is because when you take the cap off, there's really nowhere to put the cap. If you try to put it on the end of the pen, it doesn't fit just right and easily falls off. I've been just attaching the cap to a piece of my gear via the clip when I'm using the pen to prevent losing it.
Another feature when it comes to the cap is that is screws onto the pen...that means no lost caps then the pen is not in use.
The ink cartridge is gas pressurized and uses waterproof ink. Because of the pressurized cartridge, these pens will write upside down and under water. They are designed to work in frigid cold and blistering heat and will function in environments ranging from -30F to 250F. Unlike others, I haven't had a build up of gooey ink on the tip of the pen...so there isn't the need to wipe off the tip before writing like other all-weather pens I've used.
This pen feels a bit long with the cap on (6.5 inches), but this is for defensive use. However, if this is a bit too much bulk for you, the Tuff-Writer shorty is what you may want (5.75 inches).
Tuff-Writer also makes a sanitized version, with no "Tuff-Writer" logo, and a silver executive model.
I've been using this pen for almost a year now and I have to say that this is an excellent tool/pen/weapon system. It's something that you can carry inconspicuously as a weapon, and always have a pen with you at in one package. Durability is excellent. I've even seen someone hammer theirs through a 2x4 with no damage....that's a tough pen.
Color options: Stealth Black, Sniper Gray, Desert Brown, Sanitized Midnight Black
MSRP $79.95-$99.95 (depending on the model)
Made in the USA
Monday, April 27, 2009
Spring Boot Blousers
For those that don't know, the BDU pants are designed to be bloused over the boots, not tucked in. When you tuck them in it's more likely that you'll get dirt, pebbles, and bugs down in the boot, as it will get in the creases of the pant legs where they're tucked in and then make their way into the boots. It's also been my experience that when the pants get very wet, like in a rain storm, the water will soak into the pant legs and make it's way into the boots. On top of that, it's more uncomfortable to have your pants tucked into your boots.
These boot springs may be tight on your leg when you first use them. You'll need to stretch them a little at a time until they fit right (like the ones in the picture). You also have to be careful when removing them. The ends connect together by creating "hooks" on the ends. These hooks can snag the pant leg and rip a small hole in them. So be careful when removing them.
Since using these boot bands I'll always prefer them over the older elastic style. They stay in place, stay bloused, last longer, and continue to provide a professional appearance.
Vanguard - $1.55 a pair
Friday, January 9, 2009
Clear-Shot lens cleaning kit
The Case: Durable and rugged ABS plastic with rubber caps that are attached to the case via a short lanyard. This is nice because you don't go losing the caps. These cases are available in many different colors. The only thing I think I'd add to the case would be writing on the side indicating which spot contains the blue cloth, white cloth and cleaner. Mostly just for convenience sake more than anything. I did this myself with a sharpie marker. I've had this case kicking around in my duty bag for a while and it hasn't seen any damage and the fluid hasn't leaked.
The Fluid: The fluid is safe for all prescription, polarized, coated and tinted lenses. And is also safe for glass, plastic and polycarbonate surfaces. This non-toxic and biodegradable fluid does a good job at cleaning your lenses without leaving streaks or smears. The bottle is of a pump spray type and is refillable.
White cloth: This optical grade microfiber cloth is a softer, finer cloth designed for every day cleaning needs.
Blue cloth: Another optical grade chamois cloth that is thicker and designed for tougher cleaning needs. Although, if you have a lot of sand, mud, or grit on your lenses it's always best to flush the majority of it away with running water, then use the fluid and blue cloth.
I've found this kit to be useful when in the field. It's got it's own container and the fluid is of good quality and the cleaning cloths don't leave behind any dust or lint. Your lenses come crystal clean.
If you're a dealer you can also get these with custom case colors and custom logos.
Available colors: Red, Blue, Orange, Silver.
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
ChicoBags
"Each year, an estimated 500 billion to 1 trillion single-use plastic bags are consumed worldwide. In the United States alone, the average citizen uses between 300 and 700 plastic bags per year. Currently, 97% of these bags end up in either a landfill or littering our planet's fragile eco-systems."
- ChicoBag
This is why ChicoBags can help us protect the environment. I received a couple of these bags and when I knew I was getting some to review I though...ok...a little cloth bag...big deal. But being open minded I wanted to see what they're all about. When the box came I was really impressed with what was inside.
First let me cover the concept behind these bags. The idea is to limit or reduce the use of plastic grocery bags. Plastic bags create waste not only in their ending up in a landfill most times, but also in their production by creating harmful waste and fumes. Now, If I personally am going to buy $300 worth of groceries, most times I still use the plastic bags at the store. On the other hand...these are really great if you're going to the store for a few things you can take them with you and use these bags instead of a plastic bag. These bags are made of a light but strong woven nylon that is super packable. They pack up in their own stuff sack (which is sewn to the inside of the bag so it's not lost) and has an included carabiner to retain the bag.
One thing I use this bag for on a regular basis is for taking my lunch to work. I always used a plastic bag, and then just threw it out after I ate my lunch. This bag though, allows me to use the same bag over and over and it just packs right back into it's stuff sack once I'm done with it. By doing this, I can assure that the plastic bags I do have at home go out for recycling instead of in the garbage (read: land fill). I also use them for dirty laundry when traveling. Pretty much anything a plastic bag would have been used for.
ChicoBags also have a fundraising program if you're interested in raising money and also help the environment, this is a great way to do it.
A custom ChicoBag program is also available. This way you can have your own logo printed on the ChicoBag. This is a good idea for stores who would like to go green and also get their store name out on a good reusable bag.
If making a reusable bag wasn't enough, ChicoBag went even further to help the environment by creating a zero waste program to recycle old ChicoBags and any other reusable bags. They will redistribute bags that are still functional to fixed and low income families and recycle the rest to be used in new products....such as Grateful Threads Rugs.
Right now ChicoBags come in their original size (18" x 14.5"), but another size has been produced called the Vita Bag (19" x 15.5"). It is slightly larger, has complimentary trim and has shoulder length straps.
Weight: 1.5 oz
Capacity: Original - 25 lbs. Vita - 40lbs.
Colors for original bag: pink, mango, purple, blue, black, red, pale green, green, brown, earth logo.
MSRP: $5 each
Go Gaga "Slide" bag
Review by Jessi
There are features of the bag that many moms will enjoy. For starters, inside the main compartment there is a Velcro divider that can be used to separate diapers from clothes or other items. This divider can be undone and moved off to the side out of the way to open up the compartment to it's full capacity. One thing I would do is add Velcro off to the side to attach the divider to when not in use. It can get in the way when packing the bag because it doesn't stay off to the side sometimes. Not a big issue, but something that the addition of a small piece of veclro can help to resolve. Also, there is a cushioned changing pad that comes with the bag. A baby wipe container is now included, but wasn't when I got the test bag.
On each end of the bag are two large fully lined bottle pockets. You want to be careful that your drinks don't sweat in these pockets though because I did notice one day that our water soaked through and got some of our clothing a little damp. Not a huge deal but could become a issue for some people.
There are also several other smaller pockets to include 2 on the front made with a stretchy material, 2 sleeve pockets on the inside, a zippered change pocket on the inside and a sleeve on the entire length of the back.
Just above and behind the zippered main pocket are 2 adjustable straps with side release buckles that can be used for a yoga mat or rolled up blanket.
My favorite part of the bag is the adjustable strap. It is a "patented ergonomic strap" that can be worn different ways depending on how you feel comfortable wearing the bag. If the bag is heavy you can pull the shoulder pad (which also has a cell phone holder on it) to either end and fan out the strap to distribute the weight. The strap fans out over your shoulder comfortably and makes the bag feel a lot lighter.
Packing this bag is made easy by the fact that this bag stands upon it's own. This is just one more added detail in this bag.
This bag is a wonderful bag. It is expensive but you pay for a wonderful product.
Colors: Copper, Olive, Black, Cayenne
Dimensions: 17.25” L x 14.5” H x 5” W
MSRP: $118.00
Saturday, July 26, 2008
Nite Ize S-biner
This is a cool little upgrade to the normal hardware store carabiner for keys. This S-style carabiner from Nite Ize adds just a little innovation to the gear carabiner and seems to be a great improvement in quality over the carabiners you find around the checkout isle of your local department store that are designed for keys and other gear. The one innovative feature is the "S" design. I like this because I can take things off the one end of the carabiner while the other end stays secured to my gear. Normally with the regular carabiner style you have to "fidget" around to get your keys or whatever you have on the carabiner while trying to keep the carabiner attached to your pack, etc. This makes one handed removal of keys, etc easier. They can also be used to hold a two way zipper together for security of your stowed gear as you can see on their web page. These carabiners come in 5 different sizes and 3 colors (brushed steel, black, and spectrum). Another small added feature is that each size tells you on the side of the biner what weight they're rated for. This may be very helpful. Note: These are not for climbing or support of body weight. Price on these varies with the size, but they're only a couple dollars, and well worth it.
Sunday, May 4, 2008
Wiley X Romer 2 Sunglasses
These sunglasses are made by WileyX, a company that makes several great glasses and goggles. I have had these sunglasses since 2003 and have been greatly impressed with them. They are the Romer 2 style and are in use with military, law enforcement and all types of civilians. In the years that I have had them they have proven themselves. Mine came with clear lenses and a red reflective lens, and all styles come with a bag that secures closed with Velcro and can be used to clean the glasses as well. The bag also has a clip on it to attach the bag to gear.. They are great for use as safety glasses as well as sun glasses as they are ANSI Z87.1-2003 high velocity safety compliant. They are very light, and fit close to the head to allow for use with different helmets and other headgear. The lenses are quite big, so you look a little like a bug wearing them, but this is by design. They are large enough to prevent anything from flying into the eye, and also large enough so you don't notice the frame of the glasses in your field of view.
Throughout the years the lenses (which are replaceable) have gotten several small scratches on them, however, they are not noticeable when wearing the glasses. One area where the lenses have been scratched is due to the design of the temples. The part that goes behind your ear rubs against the lens when folded and causes scratching in this area. It is really out of the line of sight so you don't notice it too much. You can see these scratches in the picture above.
Recently I had these glasses in an outer pocket of a pack and when I got them out to wear them I noticed that one of the temples had broken off. I was surprised at this, but I super-glued it back on and it has held up so far. You can see this repair in the picture below.
All in all these have been my favorite pair of glasses for use on the range and while on duty. The are light, durable and are proven to protect your eyes.
Saturday, May 3, 2008
The Art Of Camouflage Video
The art of camouflage video tells you in pretty good dept how to make a military style ghillie suit. They basically go step by step. This video also includes how to make a bushrag, which is basically a poncho style ghillie suit more suited for upright stalks as opposed to stalking in the prone position. One other thing that they describe how it make is a Yettie...no...not an abominable snowman...it's a natural style of ghillie used by the Vietnamese. It's basically a way of attaching natural vegetation to your back in a backpack style. Overall I think this is a useful reference for a ghillie suit.
