GEAR & PRODUCT TESTING
WHEN GUNS FAIL: HISTORICAL KNIFE COMBAT LESSONS & CHOOSING A RELIABLE FIGHTING KNIFE
When firearms run dry or the fight gets too close in trenches and urban chaos—from the brutal raids of World War I to modern hand-to-hand clashes in Ukraine—the knife becomes the ultimate last-resort weapon. This article dives into the grim realities of knife combat, where speed, ruthlessness, and will to survive trump technique, drawing hard lessons from history. It also guides you through choosing a reliable fighting knife: blade styles like Tanto and Ka-Bar clip point, proven steels such as 1095 and CPM-3V, multi-purpose utility, and critical carry positions for quick access in desperate moments.
ASSEMBLE YOUR OWN EDC DECOY KIT
An EDC decoy kit can provide an extra layer of security by helping to protect your important items whenever you're away from home or in unfamiliar surroundings.
ALIEN GEAR CLOAK TUCK 3.5: A CONSISTENT PERFORMER
I have carried the Cloak Tuck for about 10 years. They have changed a good amount from their original model, and the innovation is continuing every year. The Cloak Tuck 3.5 has stayed around a long time, and benefited from all the advancements the company has made.
SOG BAYONET: A MODERN TAKE ON THE BAYONET
SOG now makes a bayonet for the civilian market that isn’t a cheap reproduction, or a surplus issue bayonet that costs and arm and a leg. SOG makes the bayonet thick and strong in either clip point or tanto blades, and is priced well for the layman to have cold steel fixed on their rifle.
IRON SIGHTS: COMBAT-PROVEN & EMP-PROOF
In a tech-driven gun culture, iron sights are often overlooked for red dots and prisms. But are optics truly superior, or just a shortcut? Drawing from my Marine Boot Camp days on the M16A2 irons to modern conflicts like Ukraine—where irons dominate due to supply gaps—this article challenges the hype. Only 5-8% of global militaries rely on battery optics, per NSSF estimates, highlighting irons' reliability in logistics-challenged zones.
ROCKY S2V PREDATOR BOOTS: THE IDEAL RUCKING BOOT
The Rocky S2V Predator boots have been hailed as one of the best boots for rucking and everyday military-style use. I wanted to put it to the test because I do a lot of rucking and a lot of military-style training.
CLINGER HOLSTERS IWB HINGE: BEST CONCEALMENT HOLSTER
The Clinger Holsters IWB Hinge is the best holster design I have tested and used. I have used them for almost a decade, and I am in love with the design, and how far they have come. They are not perfect, but they are the best option available, and the cons are not something that cannot be remedied.
COLD STEEL G.I. TANTO: PRACTICAL KINIFE FOR OUTDOOR CHORES
The Cold Steel GI Tanto is a robust, tactical knife featuring a fixed blade made from high-quality steel. It offers exceptional edge retention and corrosion resistance. The blade’s tanto point provides superior piercing capabilities, making it well-suited for both combat and utility tasks. Its handle is ergonomically designed with smooth polymer for a secure grip in various conditions.
BRITISH BELT KIT: COMBAT STANDARD
The British Belt Kit is a standard-issue load-bearing system used by British armed forces, designed to provide soldiers with a practical and efficient way to carry essential equipment. Typically made from durable webbing material, the kit includes a wide belt with multiple attachment points for ammunition pouches, utility pouches, first aid kits, and other necessary gear. Its modular design allows for customization based on mission requirements, ensuring soldiers have quick access to their tools while maintaining mobility. The British Belt Kit’s simplicity and reliability have made it a longstanding choice for infantry operations and training environments alike.
STREAMLIGHT MICROSTREAM: THE LITTLE LIGHT THAT CAN
The Streamlight Microstream is a compact, high-performance flashlight designed for everyday carry and tactical use. It features a durable anodized aluminum body, producing a bright 250 lumen beam with a runtime of up to 1.5 hours. Its small size and lightweight design make it easy to carry on a keychain or in a pocket, while the push-button tail switch offers quick and simple one-handed operation. The Microstream is also water-resistant and impact-resistant, making it a reliable light source in various environments, suitable for self-defense, emergency situations, and general outdoor use.