PMCI - March - 2020

pmcimagazine.com
RANGE GEAR
though is the MBDU Flannel Shirt, and So what can look better
than a plaid shirt? The MBDU Flannel Shirt is what! Based on
the classic Helikon-Tex MBDU shirt, and made of lightweight,
yet durable fabric it provides proper antibacterial properties
even during prolonged use, while the UPF50 index provides
UV protection. Side VersaStretch panels guarantee freedom of
movement during dynamic activities, and zippered pockets with
YKK zippers on the chest and shoulders will accommodate all your
essentials. Additionally the loop panels on the biceps allow for
easy personalization with unit patches when needed. As Helikon-
Tex say themselves “this shirt is a must have for any urban
operations”, and I have to say that I’m totally in agreement with
them on this!
Although hopefully during the summer months I won’t be
needing a fully-fledged hardshell I do want something that can
be worn over a microfleece to add an additional layer against
wind chill, and ideally I look for garments that are lightweight
and have a minimal pack size. The Windrunner windshirt, also
from Helikon-Tex, is an ideal carry item because of its minimum
weight and size when folded. At just 190g (size XL) its ultra-light,
tightly-woven Nylon fabric protects you from the wind, and if
the DWR coating is regularly maintained, also from light rain.
The Windrunner would also be an ideal garment for any kind of
outdoor training.
Mesh ventilation slats in armpits allow increased air circulation
for when you’re really working hard, and on a cooler day, worn
on top of a fleece, it keeps your all-important core warmth from
escaping and protects against wind chilling. A large front channel
pocket easily accommodates a cap, gloves or a buff , and two
small flat pockets inside the larger pocket help to organize small
items like smartphone or ID.
Additional features are sparse and minimalistic in that there is
a lightweight hood, elasticated cuffs and a drawstring hem, and
that’s it. On a garment like this though you don’t need a massive
amount of features as that just increases bulk and weight. The
Windrunner has been with me for quite a while now and I have
to admit that I absolutely love it and have worn it almost daily (in
fact O got myself a second!); it’s a superb piece of kit that gives
you just that little extra protection when things start to get cooler,
and therefore I would thoroughly commend it to you.
In relation to boots I’ve been testing a new model over the
past year or so, and the AKU Selvatica is designed specifically
for professional users. Weighing in at just 460g, the superlightweight
Selvatica Tactical Mid is incredibly breathable, as AKU’s
Air 8000 upper is a technical fabric whose level of breathability
increases over a period of 24 hours to more than 11 times that
of a conventionally made fabric, and patented back in 1991, it
ensures cooling comfort all day long. The Air 8000 is combined
with OrthoLite anti-microbial and breathable insoles to keep your
feet fresh and comfortable for extended periods. The boots also
benefit from a GORE-TEX extended comfort lining which helps to
maintain the high levels of breathability whilst maintaining 100%
protection against ingress of water.
A new welding process has also been used on the boots
to eliminate the need for stitching and makes the boot more
waterproof and less likely to snag on rocks and rough terrain.
The sole of the boots features AKU’s exclusive Elica Natural Stride
System technology. Designed to faithfully follow the anatomical
shape of the sole of the foot, it allows the sole to adapt to
normal heel and forefoot inclination, guaranteeing a more even
distribution of foot pressure and reducing impact and strain
during long treks. The treads are Vibram Selvatica Megagrip, a
high performance rubber compound that promises unparalleled
grip on wet and dry surfaces and optimal ground adaptability for
better all-around traction. Combined with dynamic support in the
upper and sole this is a faithful boot that won’t let you down.
BELT UP
Setting up your gear for range sessions can go one of two ways.
My personal setup is very straightforward; belt, holster, a couple
of mag pouches for the handgun and a couple for the rifle.
Depending on what type of course we’re running I might chuck
on a dump pouch too. I’ve used many different brands of belt over
the years, but at the moment I’m using the excellent Direct Action
Mustang double-belt system that you’ll see detailed in our gear
on test section.
My favoured holsters are Kydex models made by my good
mate Taig at Kydex Customs, and firearms fit perfectly, are well
retained and easy to clear; the holsters are model-specific, but
Taigs “easy on-off” fittings make changing them out a breeze.
Dependant on where I’m shooting I really like the HSGI style of
leg rig that lets me carry two spare carbine magazines, two spare
pistol magazines, and a mulitool. If however the range where
I’m shooting only allows belt mounted gear then I vary between
flap-closed Tac Reload and open-topped Speed Reload magazine
pouches, again from Direct Action. If I do run a dump pouch, my
favourite which I’ve had for years now is from 5:11; I also like
to carry a simple first-aid kit contained in the excellent Modular
Individual Med Kit Pouch from Helikon-Tex. Consistency is really
the key to building up your speed in terms of all disciplines, and I
find that keeping the belt rig the same each and every time I use
it really helps with this. I may well change out the mag pouches
or holster for different makes of firearm, but ultimately everything
stays in the same place!
I’ll conclude this month with my usual mantra of do your
research, get the information you need, and buy wisely. With the
clothing and footwear I’ve chosen I would say all of it bar the UF
PRO pants would be equally at home in town or on the range.
If, like us, you’re going to try and set up your own range please
ensure that it is on private land that is well secluded; it must
obviously also satisfy any and all legal requirements where you
live. It’s also advisable to look into your own Liability Insurance,
and to be completely on the safe side it’s certainly worth
considering letting your local LE guys know what you’re up to and
when; who knows, they may even come and join you!
However and wherever you may shoot though, practice hard,
go safe, and enjoy some long summer evenings range fun with
your friends!
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