In our MSM Adapt Pack review earlier this year, we featured a new admin pouch – the MSM Stealth Compact Pouch.  Like the larger Stealth Admin, the Stealth Compact is another product from the successful collaboration between Milspec Monkey and Tactical Tailor.

MSM Stealth Compact Pouch in Black and Foliage

At 7″ x 4.5″ x 3″ (filled), the Stealth Compact is about two thirds the width of the regular Stealth Admin.  Despite it’s dimuntive size, this pouch holds a lot of kit.  Here is an example of what you can store.

There are two zippered compartments.  The front has a double zippered clam shell opening for ease of access.  In one sleeve I’m storing some first aid supplies and the other my Rite in the Rain All Weather Memo Book.  The two elastic loops are a little loose for my liking but they still do a reasonably decent job of holding smaller items like a pair of small medic shears and a Bic lighter.  Monkey opted for billowed pockets on the other side and they easily fit my Leatherman Skeletool and mid-sized ZT 0350 folder.  I’d imagine larger knives and multi-tools would fit as well.  I plan on testing that theory when I get my ZT 0300 later this week.

MSM Stealth Compact Front Compartment

The main compartment is accessed from the top to keep it’s contents from spilling out.  There are two more elastic loops, two billowed pockets, and another open sleeve.  If you stuff the front compartment, then things can get tight here.  However, it still was large enough to hold my Sunwayman M10R flashlight, extra batteries, and a spare magazine for my Smith and Wesson M&P Shield.

MSM Stealth Compact Main Compartment

There is nylon webbing on each side of the exterior of the pouch where you can clip a pen, like this CRP Tactical Mini, or other items for quick access.

Each pouch includes two long malice clips for it’s 2 X 5 PALS webbing panel.  The bottom has a single drainage grommet.  The color matched double knotted zipper pulls are real 550 Paracord and can easily be manipulated wearing gloves.

Since the Stealth Compact is taller than it is wide, it’s well suited for placement on the sides of molle packs where smaller, less useful pouches usually reside.  For example, here is the MSM Stealth Compact Admin on the side of the GoRuck Shoulder Bag 15L (review coming soon).

GoRuck Shoulder Bag and MSM Stealth Compact Admin Pouch

The two make a great combination…

CONCLUSION

I can’t think of a better small Molle compatible admin pouch on the market today.  I like it so much that I purchased a second one in Black after Monkey sent over the Foliage pouch for review.

The MSM Stealth Compact Admin Pouch retails for $30 plus shipping and is stocked here on the MSM store in Black, Foliage, Coyote, and Multicam.  The last run sold out and several months passed before more were available so get them now while they last.    

The post MSM Stealth Compact Pouch Review appeared first on Loaded Pocketz.

The U.S. Navy Special Warfare Command Contracting Office has issued an RFQ (Request for Quote) for a Pocket Pro Survival Kit.  Here is the list of required items:

OTTERBOX CONTAINER
SWISS ARMY KNIFE
RESCUE HOWLER WHISTLE
SUN BUTTON COMPASS
FIVE SURVIVAL MATCHES
PHOTON II LITHIUM POWERED MICRO-LIGHT WHITE FLASHLIGHT
SPARK-LITE FIRE STARTER
FIVE TINDERQUICK TABS
STAINLESS STEEL COMMANDO WIRE SAW
RESCUE FLASH SIGNAL MIRROR
TEN AQUATAB CHLORINE WATER PURIFICATION TABLETS
PENCIL
WATERPROOF PAPER (4.25”X5.5”)
TWO 4” ZIPTIES
HEAVY-DUTY CANVAS SEWING NEEDLE
THREE SAFETY PINS
SCALPEL BLADE
ONE SHEET OF ALUMINUM FOIL (12”X12”)
STERILE ZIP-SEAL BAG (WATER CONTAINER)
12’ OF STAINLESS STEEL SNARE WIRE
ONE FOOT OF ELECTRICAL TAPE (WRAPPED AROUND SPARK-LITE HANDLE)
FLOSS CARD (36’ OF DENTAL FLOSS FOR FISHING, SEWING, ORAL CARE, ETC)
FRESNEL MAGNIFYING LENS
BOUILLON PACKET
NINE #6 FISH HOOKS
THREE SPLITSHOT
TWO SWIVELS
THIRTY FEET OF 15LB. TEST LINE
LEADER KNOTS AND HITCHES INSTRUCTION SHEET
SIX NYLON LANYARDS
SURVIVAL INSTRUCTION SHEET ON WATERPROOF PAPER

The winning kit will likely not be available for civilian purchase but the list can be the basis for a personal survival kit that covers all the bases – shelter, food, water, and rescue.

The post Gear Diary: Navy Seals Survival Kit appeared first on Loaded Pocketz.

I wanted to share some pics of my new EDC blade – the Zero Tolerance 0300BW.  Many of you are probably already familiar with this knife and know the tech specs.  Closed length of 5.1 inches.  Overall weight is 8.1 ounces.  Assisted opener with a wide, S30v tungsten DLC Black Wash finished blade.  Four way reversible pocket clip. 

Zero Tolerance 0300BW

So, in summary… a black pocket beast that is heavy as hell with a blade that is probably on the large side for Every Day Carry.  Do I care?  Absolutely not.

I love this knife.  This is my first ZT 0300 (replacing a 0350) and for me it’s the most ergonomically comfortable knife I’ve owned to-date and provides a very firm grip.  Fit and finish is outstanding.  Pardon the cliche but it’s locks up like a bank vault.  Almost fixed blade like.  Great machined 3D titanium and G-10 scales.  The black wash gives it an antiqued look that’s very unique.  Sharp right out of the box.  The large, thick slab of a blade comes out with an authoritative “thwack”.  I’ll probably wear it out just playing with it.

This comes off sounding a little fanboy and for that I apologize.  But the 0300 is just awesome all the way around.  I paid roughly $200 for it and while that’s a lot of money, I feel like it’s worth every penny.  Can’t recommend it enough.

The post Zero Tolerance 0300BW Blackwash Review appeared first on Loaded Pocketz.

Some have asked me why I switched from the Camelbak Urban Assault (CUA) to the Urban Assault XL.  I went to the larger version for a couple of reasons.

Camelbak Urban Assault XL and Urban Assault

Reason #1 – Size Does Matter

It’s been well documented that I’m a pretty large dude and at 21″ L X 16″ W X 14″ D, the XL is a large bag.  It fits me pretty well.  The vertically challenged, pygmy sized human need not apply.  Do I carry smaller bags from time to time?  Yes, I do.  Mainly when the size of a bag would result in it being left behind (e.g. short excursions, amusement parks, day trips, certain flights, etc.).  In this case, the Philosophy of Use is a work EDC bag and I train commute into the city.  I carry a fair amount of gear with me and the aptly named Urban Assault XL does a great job of organizing my essentials – electronics, tools, back-up power source, water, food, FAK, and an extra layer.  It’s also large enough to double as a get home bag should the need arise.

Bottom line:  If you’re blessed with a large frame, don’t listen to people on discussion boards when they say some bags are too large for Everyday Carry.  That’s not always true.  There are a lot of variables and size is one of them.

Reason #2 – Ease of Access

Both bags have the same class leading layout for EDC use with one exception – the Transporter Tail.  On the regular sized CUA, the tail is on the outside and the admin panel is behind it.  As a result, the upper compression strap blocks the zipper to the panel.

This is the sort of thing reviewers harp on but it’s really not a huge deal under real world use.  Why?  You can still unzip the top of the compartment and pretty much get access to everything inside anyway due to the way the panel is laid out.

And once you disengage the buckles, the panel can still be unzipped for full, unfettered access to the contents inside.

All that said, the tail design on the XL is just better.  Camelbak flipped the position of the tail so it’s on the inside and the admin panel is in a zippered compartment on the outside of the bag.  The upper compression strap does not block access to it.

Camelbak Urban Assault XL Admin Panel

They also added a lower compression strap to keep things nice and compact should the larger bag not get loaded up to full capacity.

Bottom line: I don’t always open the admin panel up all the way, but when I do, I appreciate that the compression strap doesn’t get in the way.  In my opinion, it’s a design change that should be carried over to the smaller version also.  There’s really no downside to it.

—

Overall, I’m happy with the switch.  The Camlebak Urban Assault family of bags in my opinion are still the best low drag/urban friendly EDC packs on the planet.  And the XL meets my specific needs.  Hopefully, if you’re interested in a CUA, this will help you decide which version might meet yours.  As always, if you have questions, post a comment below.  

The post Camelbak Urban Assault XL vs Urban Assault appeared first on Loaded Pocketz.

The winner of the GoRuck Full Panel TAC Hat is:

earldvoss@gmail.com

Congratulations Earl!  Expect an email with confirmation for delivery!  Thanks to everyone for your continued support of Loadedpocketz.  We’ll be sure to do more of these every now and then so make sure you’re subscribed with a valid email address to be eligible.

The post The GoRuck Full Panel TAC Hat Winner appeared first on Loaded Pocketz.

Gear Tested: Tom Bihn Synapse 25

Original Review Date: May 11, 2013

Status: Out of Rotation (see below)

Update: For a period of time, the Synapse 25 was my work EDC bag and personal go-to option on family holidays. However, after my new job stuck me with a heavier laptop and a tablet, the Synapse became a less favored carry option because, without a framesheet, it doesn’t handle heavier loadouts as well as some of my other packs.

As I moved onto other options, my teenage son claimed the Synapse as his own. In less than a year, he literally shredded his previous school bag (a Jansport) and needed a replacement for the second half of the school year.  I thought it would be a great torture test of Tom Bihn’s legendary build quality since nobody on earth, outside of the Military, abuses gear worse than high school aged boys. So far, so good. After several months of being thrown around, dragged through god knows what, and stressed in every way imaginable, the bag still looks almost new.

Tom Bihn Synpase 25

Pictured below is the only flaw/damage I could find – a tiny pulled thread and some initial fraying of the YKK Aquaguard zippers, which Tom Bihn says is normal wear.  Pretty impressive.

Overall, my son really likes the Synapse 25.  He loves the layout and thinks it’s more comfortable than his Jansport.  He also says that the zippers don’t stick, which is huge because he’s in and out of his bag all day long.

Pro’s:  Tough as nails build quality, EDC friendly layout, Dyneema Interior, Quality YKK zippers

Con’s:  Ability to handle heavy loadouts (unless you have the body of a 14 year-old then it might not matter)

The post Gear Revisited: Tom Bihn Synapse 25 appeared first on Loaded Pocketz.

The family and I have decided we’re going to vacation in St. Croix this summer (our first trip to the Caribbean).  And we’ve decided to all get our Scuba certification.  I actually got my PADI Open Water some time back but I didn’t get serious about it and therefore don’t have many entries in my dive log.  This trip will be a great excuse to get back into the sport along with my wife and kids.  And of course, there will be lots of gear to buy also.

The post Gear Diary: Another Hobby to Gear Obsess About appeared first on Loaded Pocketz.

Here’s something you may not know.  Bags made for concealed carry can be one of the best choices for EDC (Everyday Carry) even if you don’t have a concealed carry permit.  Why?  Because the features that bag makers incorporate to conceal and carry a firearm can instead be used to add additional interior organization to meet different requirements.  For instance, hook and loop panels are often sewn on the inside of conceal carry bags so that specially made holsters and magazine carriers can be attached but many manufacturers also sell hook and loop accessories including laptop/tablet sleeves, admin panels, and pouches.  And if your work does require you to be armed or if you’re a responsible citizen with a CCL, you get the added flexibility of off-body carry should the need arise.

Camelbak Dispatch

There are a lot of options on the market today, but one of the best is the Camelbak Dispatch – formerly known as the Urban Assault Concealed.  It’s been out there for a while and it’s difficult (but not impossible) to acquire due to restrictions imposed by Camelbak which typically limits it’s purchase to Law Enforcement and Military personnel.  But, if you’re willing to go through the trouble to acquire one, the Dispatch has nearly the same layout as Camelbak’s Urban Assault pack, which is one of our favorite mid-sized EDC backpacks, with some great added features to conceal a firearm if you require it.

Camelbak Dispatch

Vertx Gamut

The Vertx Gamut is available for pre-order with an April 2014 release date.  The early buzz from this year’s Shot Show is that the Gamut also has excellent organization in addition to some concealed carry features.  And, like the Dispatch, it’s designed to look like a regular backpack and doesn’t scream “gun”, which is highly desirable (especially if you’re not carrying one).

Vertx Gamut

We’ve ordered both bags to do a direct head-to-head comparison with full write-ups for another installment of our popular “Deatchmatch” series.  Two bags go into the Octagon but only one can emerge the victor.  Stay tuned!

The post Concealed Carry Bag Death Match: Coming Soon appeared first on Loaded Pocketz.

Check out this Shot Show 2014 video from TheTacticalGentleman showcasing two new packs – the Hazard 4 Overwatch and Hazard 4 Clerk.

If I’m being honest, the Clerk doesn’t excite me all that much.  It’s basically their Second Front pack with the addition of two hard shell compartments.  The Second Front had two features that I didn’t care for that unfortunately carried over to the Clerk.  First, it has a horizontally oriented admin compartment.  I know that’s all the rage these days and it’s great when you rotate the pack to your front while wearing it.  The problem is, the rest of the time, it’s just weird.  Call me a traditionalist, but if I want that, I’ll just opt for a messenger bag.  Strike One.  Hazard 4 also committed the cardinal sin of making the hip belt non-removable.  Strike Two.  Finally, they gave it a horrible name.  Clerk?  Really?  Strike Three.

The Overwatch is also based on an earlier design – the Hazard 4 Patrol Pack (which we reviewed earlier this year).  Overall, I liked the Patrol Pack.  The Overwatch adds a rifle sling to the mix, which could be great for long gunners.  I see other uses for the sling including carrying a large tri-pod or snow shoes.  It’s an interesting feature and a nice option if you have that need.

No word on the release date.  Expect prices in the same neighborhood as the Second Front and Patrol packs.   

The post First Look: Hazard 4 Overwatch and Clerk Packs appeared first on Loaded Pocketz.

I’ll be honest.  I have a love/hate relationship with messenger bags.  I generally prefer backpacks but occasionally I’ll see some twenty-something with a cool looking messenger and I get the urge to go single strap all over again.  When I do, I’m REALLY particular about the bag I go with.  It must have organization and not just be a dump pouch with a strap.  Laptop protection is a must.  Water resistant materials is a plus.  And because I live in Chicago, having room for an extra layer is also a plus.  Weather here can be unpredictable all year around.  The Rickshaw Commuter 2.1 meets all of these requirements and more.

Rickshaw rebooted their Commuter design late last year and sent us one for Review.  The Commuter 2.1 can be customized and one of the options we asked for was the X-Pac™ technical sailcloth exterior.  According to Rickshaw, X-Pac™ is a special high-performance sailcloth for ocean-going racing boats manufactured by Dimension-Polyant in Connecticut. The high-tech laminate is lightweight, abrasion resistant and waterproof. And a special internal layer of tensile strands gives the fabric a distinctive diamond pattern.

Rickshaw Bagworks Commuter 2.1

The X-Pac lived up to it’s billing.  As we detailed in an earlier Gear Diary post, it’s definitely sheds the elements when coupled with Rickshaw’s interior waterproof liner.  It has also withstood several months of being thrown around during my commute into the city and still looks like new.  The boot on the bottom of the bag is also waterproof and helps the Commuter stand upright when set on the ground.

One of the unique features of this bag are the patented magnetic “shhh” silencers that prevent the annoying ripping sound you get when opening a velcro flap.  They also allow you to disengage the buckles and still keep the flap somewhat secure via the magnets for ease of access.

I was surprised to find a single row of PALS webbing under the flap of the Rickshaw Commuter 2.1.  I attached a SOLED clip light there.  There is also an attachment point for a safety light such as the Guardian DF pictured below.

Rickshaw “Shhh” Silencers

The Commuter’s dimensions are 15.75″W x 11″H x 4.75″ D.  That’s a tad on the large size and a little briefcase-like.  Rickshaw makes a smaller Mini version also.  For me, the size was fine because I want the extra room to store that additional layer should I need it.  If you don’t have that need and just carry a tablet then the Mini might be the better option.

The interior includes a removable padded 15″ laptop sleeve and a pocket that can be used to hold a tablet.

Rickshaw also makes drop pocket/admin panels for the Commute that can be added for additional organization in place of the laptop sleeve utilizing the two long strips of velcro.  It also opens the door to the possibility of experimenting around with hook and loop accessories from other brands as well.  I love modular design in my packs and it’s not something you find in many non-tactical messengers

The outer front pockets are identical and have two separate sleeves that are soft lined (for electronics or even sunglasses).  Both have a fob clip for keys, thumb drives, or other small items.

Perhaps the best feature of the Commuter 2.1 is it’s admin panel.  It runs the entire length of the bag’s back panel and can be accessed via a double zipper while wearing the bag.  It includes a variety of different sized pockets (nine total) including two that are large enough to fit a multi-tool or even a large knife like my ZT 0300 folder.  It’s one of the best integrated admin setups I’ve seen in a messenger bag.

The Rickshaw Commuter 2.1′s Outstanding Admin Compartment

The quality is uniformly outstanding.  Parts of the bag are made overseas and then assembled here in the States.  Rickshaw stands behind it’s products with a “No Reasonable Request Denied” Warranty policy.

The only major issue I had with the Commuter 2.1 was with the beefy Quick Adjust Shoulder Strap that comes with the Commuter.  The strap is great but the pad is just horrible.  For me, it constantly moved around and was not grippy at all.  The end result was that the bag constantly slipped from my shoulder (unless I wore it cross body).

I ultimately addressed the problem by reluctantly swapping out the stock strap for a Tom Bihn Ultimate Strap.  But, I would have preferred to keep the original on there because the Tom Bihn strap is thinner and it lacks the Rickshaw quick adjustment buckle.

One change on the 2.1 (compared to the 2.0 version) were the side pockets.  Rickshaw went with low profile Cordura sleeves versus mesh.  There were many complaints by fans of the previous version but I didn’t have any issue with the change and you can still fit a small water bottle or umbrella in there.  They are also not snag prone like the mesh and it definitely makes the bag look a little more upscale.

CONCLUSION

The Rickshaw Commuter 2.1 is, without a doubt, the most EDC friendly non-tactical messenger that I’ve encountered to-date and for me definitely a viable option to a backpack.  Given how much I love my backpacks, that should give you a gauge on how good the Commuter Messenger really is.

Rickshaw assembles to order and offers many color and material options to customize each bag to taste.  The Commuter 2.1 retails for $180 and is available from their website.  Upon order, each bag is shipped within 10-12 days.

The post Rickshaw Commuter 2.1 Review appeared first on Loaded Pocketz.

As I mentioned earlier this month, we pre-ordered the new Vertx EDC Gamut to review as part of a new Concealed Carry Bag Deathmatch.  Well, it just came in and early impressions are very positive.

Vertx EDC Gamut

Here is an Intro Video with more to follow in future Gear Diaries and of course the Deathmatch itself.

The post First Look: Vertx EDC Gamut appeared first on Loaded Pocketz.

Wow, I sad to report my friends that EDC Forums has placed some sort of restriction on my account to the point where I am unable to access the Forum.  I keep getting server timeouts.  However, when I browse anonymously, I’m able to access the site with no issues.  They didn’t have the guts to outright ban me but XBanker (the site admin) made sure I couldn’t post anymore, which is effectively the same thing.  

It’s all unbelievably below board but I guess they didn’t want the scrutiny that a ban would bring and additional focus on the rule changes that has driven away a number of long time members and destroyed the positive vibe that EDCF was once known for.

It’s sad that it has come to this.  Until recently, I enjoyed my time on the Forum and I tried my best to help others in need.  That will have to continue now on Loadedpocketz.

More to follow.

Best Regards,
Blaine

Founder/Chief Editor
Loadedpocketz.com
(a.k.a. “TARFU”)

The post Gear Diary: My EDC Forums Run Has Evidently Ended appeared first on Loaded Pocketz.

If you’re a Triple Aught Design fan, then stay tuned because I’ve stocked up on TAD Gear to field test.  First off, TAD sent us a pair of their Covert DC (Doomsday) Pants late last year and the results are in.  Look for a review on those coming very soon!

I’ve also purchased a TAD Gear Mean T-Skull Shemagh… mostly because I’ve never owned a Shemagh and wanted to see if they’re as useful as everyone says.  And last but certainly not least, I’ve acquired the Stealth Hoodie LT — TAD Gear’s top of the line jacket.  It will protect me from the elements on the trails and during a trip to the U.S. Virgin Islands later this Summer.  

Triple Aught Design Stealth Hoodie LT

The Stealth LT is VERY expensive but it’s loaded with technical features that (from all the reviews I’ve read) makes it worth every penny.  It’s certainly the most expensive single article of clothing I’ve ever purchased but I’ve always wanted to own the LT so I’m pretty excited to give it a run.  

Look for a reviews on both the Mean T-Skull Shemagh and Stealth LT in the next couple of months. 

The post Coming Soon: More Triple Aught Design Gear Reviews appeared first on Loaded Pocketz.

I’ve had the Vertx EDC Gamut backpack for a week and thought I’d share a few thoughts now that I’ve had a chance to carry it.

PROS

Lots of well thought out features on the Vertx Gamut.  Adjust-ability, Strap Management, Security Features, Concealed Carry, Laptop friendly, Hydration capable — it’s all there.  The pack designers obviously understand the needs of Everyday Carry enthusiasts.  Every compartment is packed with organization options.  You can pretty much configure the Gamut to meet your needs.  If you can’t, then you’re not being very imaginative in setting up your load-out.

Speaking of load-outs, the Gamut handles weight very well due to its torsional rigidity and the well padded back panel and straps.  As good as any daypack I’ve carried.  The frame sheet is thick (slightly over 1/8″ of an inch) but can still flex.  A removable sternum strap and non-load bearing waist belt can be leveraged when needed.

Water beads up nicely on this pack.  Vertx used genuine Cordura brand fabric.

Vertx EDC Gamut

The Gamut is one of the lowest profile packs I’ve encountered – right on par with the Tom Bihn Synapse 25.

CONS

The stretch side pockets cannot accommodate a Nalgene sized bottle.

The main compartment zippers are not smooth.  I need to play around with them to truly understand the issue because the zippers are YKK.

The Gamut is an absolute pet hair magnet.  Be prepared to invest in a lot of tape rollers if you own pets that shed.

—–

The first week has gone well with the Vertx EDC Gamut.  The zipper issue is a concern but overall this is a pack that is very easy to live with.  It’s a great looking bag with lots of versatility.  Look for the full review… coming soon.

The post Gear Diary: First Week with the Vertx EDC Gamut appeared first on Loaded Pocketz.

If you’ve joined me on the pre-order list for any of the Kershaw Emerson collaboration knives or, if you’re just casually curious, then check out this awesome preview by the Edge Observer:

Making Waves. A review of Kershaw and Emerson’s new collaboration. Stop by for a full written review and video… http://t.co/JYn0f6Oeoh

— edge observer (@edgeobserver) April 6, 2014

The preview pretty much confirms what I had suspected and hoped that this collaboration would yield. Emerson’s proven designs coupled with a boost in fit and finish by Kershaw at a price point that makes more sense. The best of both worlds.

The post Edge Observer’s Kershaw Emerson Collaboration Preview appeared first on Loaded Pocketz.

If you we’re waiting for the right time to pull the trigger after reading our review on the Rickshaw Bagworks Commuter 2.1, then now is that time.  The Commuter 2.1 is 30% off through this coming Monday (April 14th, 2014).  Use the code “upgrade” at checkout to receive the discount.  

The post Rickshaw Bagworks Commuter 2.1 Sale appeared first on Loaded Pocketz.

Visit Triple Aught Design’s website and you’re likely to be bombarded with pictures of twenty somethings hiking trails, crossing raging streams, and climbing mountains – to the point that if you’re not putting your TAD Gear through similar torture tests then you feel like you’re not doing it justice.

Well, this weekend I wasn’t doing any of those things.  I was taking my youngest to a soccer tournament.  Saturday was OK but Sunday turned into a rain drenched muddy mess.  Fortunately, I was prepared better than most because I was wearing my TAD Gear Stealth Hoodie LT.  

Triple Aught Design Stealth Hoodie LT

Three hours in a heavy downpour without an umbrella and I was bone dry the entire time.  The water stopped beading up on the jacket about two hours in but nothing got through the seams.  The Stealth plus a t-shirt and a light fleece kept me warm and comfortable.  Considering the cost of the jacket, I wouldn’t expect anything less, but at least now I have confirmation.

So if you were looking for confirmation… yes… you don’t have to be Bear Grylls, a Navy Seal, or even twenty something to rock TAD Gear.  Cool Soccer Dads can even get in on the fun. 

The post Gear Diary: Soccer Dads can Rock the TAD Gear Stealth Hoodie LT too appeared first on Loaded Pocketz.

Coming this Summer (most likely in late June), the Moto360 Android Wear Smart Watch by Motorola is the first smart phone watch that has appealed to me on an aesthetic level.  First off, it’s round like a traditional watch.   It also looks like a good sized watch, which I generally prefer on my large wrists.

Moto360 Android Wear Smart Watch

The watch will utilize Google’s new Android Wear operating system.

Not many details on the watch have been released, but supposedly it’s water resistant, the straps are interchangeable by the wearer, there’s no charge port (wireless charging?), and it works with any Android 4.3 smart phone.

Here is another video about the development of the watch.

No word on the price, but I might be an early adopter on this one. Stay tuned.

The post First Look: Moto360 Watch appeared first on Loaded Pocketz.

One of the things I’m hardly ever without is my wallet.  Two of my favorite wallets happen to come from the same company.  Spec Ops Brand T.H.E. Wallet Jr. and T.H.E. Wallet Mini are both made from 1000D Cordura and feature Spec Op’s patented “Shark Bite” closure.

EXTERIOR

The Shark Bite eliminates the need for noisy velcro or a zipper to keep the wallet closed and secure.  It adds a bit of thickness but in practice its pure genius.  You basically just tuck the lip of the wallet into its own pouch which holds it closed.  It’s very easy to manipulate (even one-handed).  Spec Ops also added grommets so 550 Paracord can be added for neck carry.  I don’t use that feature but it’s a nice security option when traveling in areas where pick pockets run rampant.

The Wallet Jr., the larger of the two, has an id window on the outside of the wallet.

This is great for a driver’s license or company ID… basically anything that you have to pull out and show people on a regular basis.  The window itself is made from a non-glare material that doesn’t rip and/or discolor like ID windows on typical wallets.  The is my second Wallet Jr. and after 18 months of use, the original one (which was in Coyote) still looks as good as new.

INTERIOR

The inside of the wallets offer a lot of organization.

The Wallet Jr. has four credit card slots that can hold two cards per slot securely and a zippered challenge coin/spare change pocket. Also, this is one of the few wallets I’ve encountered with two integrated ID windows.  I use one for my driver license and the other for my concealed carry permit.

The Wallet Mini also has four credit card slots but it’s more compact and therefore lacks the second window and zippered pocket.  I think they could have incorporated a window on the exterior of the Mini, but Spec Ops opted not to do that (probably to preserve the price gap between the two).

The Wallet Jr. has a deeper cash pocket than the Mini.  It features a second zippered pocket for receipts or other items.

The Mini’s pocket is more typical.

SIZE

At 4.25″ X 4.50″, the Wallet Jr. is a larger wallet than I would normally carry.  I was skeptical that carrying a wallet this big would be doable but, most of time, I really don’t notice it in my pocket.  The fact that it’s wide but relatively flat prevents the “back pocket rock” feeling I get when I carry the same amount of stuff in a traditionally sized leather or nylon wallet.  I’ll grant you that it’s size does relegate it to back pocket, cargo pocket, or neck carry duty only.  But, if I want to carry front pocket or just simply want to downsize, then I go with the 4.75″ X 3.75″ Mini, which works well in that role.

WRAP-UP

These wallets aren’t elegant, but they are extremely functional and they wear very well.  You’ll probably go through several leather wallets before you would consider replacing one of these.  Especially if you live an active lifestyle where sweat and rough duty tends to take a toll.

The Wallet Jr. has lots of wallet “bells and whistles” while the Mini is more minimalistic.  Both are great in their own way.  The Spec Ops Wallet Jr., which comes in Black, Coyote, ACU Camo, and MultiCam, is on sale now for $25.60.  The Spec Ops Wallet Mini is available in Black and Coyote and is on sale for $22.40.

The post Spec Ops Wallet Review appeared first on Loaded Pocketz.

Saw this article about 41 Genius Camping Hacks posted on Gentlemint and thought I’d share it.  Not all are as genius as they claim but I found some to be useful.  I especially like #13.  Sounds very tasty. 

Bailey’s Dipped Toasted Marshmallows

The post How To: 41 Genius Camping Hacks appeared first on Loaded Pocketz.