Intro to USPSA gear

[ssb]

I’ve decided to take the plunge and jump into USPSA this summer, with my first match being (hopefully) in June.

I will be shooting Carry Optics. Given the new rule change, my firearm will be a Walther PDP with Deltapoint and X300U. I have a holster on order, which will go on a Safariland UBL with QLS. The QLS setup is mostly because that’s what I have, but it should provide a reasonable drop and offset while staying within the rules.

My questions are for the remaining equipment:

Without jumping too far into the deep end (i.e. I’m willing to spend a couple hundred bucks, but nothing too crazy), what is recommended for a belt and magazine pouches? For just starting out with CO, is one mag in the gun and three on the belt sufficient? Should those mags have 140mm extensions or will 18rd mags be sufficient for just starting out?

I own plenty of shooting gear including a timer, so apart from a belt, holster, and mag pouches, is there anything else I should invest in now?

Thanks,

[olstyn]

Without jumping too far into the deep end (i.e. I’m willing to spend a couple hundred bucks, but nothing too crazy), what is recommended for a belt and magazine pouches? For just starting out with CO, is one mag in the gun and three on the belt sufficient? Should those mags have 140mm extensions or will 18rd mags be sufficient for just starting out?

18 + 1 is going to mean that you usually only need to reload 1-2 times per field course, just like 21 or 22 + 1. You just might have to be a bit more careful about choosing where your reloads happen. In order to just try it out, I think you'd be fine to shoot a match with the stock mags.

That said, in order to jump into CO (or Limited, really) and not feel like you're occasionally disadvantaged, you'll want at least one or two mags with 140mm extensions on them so that you can maximize your stage planning options.

If you decide you really love it and want to dive in all the way after shooting a few matches with either all stock mags or one or two 140mm mags, it's easy enough to order more 140mm extensions. I personally have had good experience with Taylor Freelance extensions on my P99 mags, and I would expect that the 140mm extensions they make for the PDP would be good as well, but this is one of those areas where everybody has their favorite (or just one that has worked well for them, which is my case), and nobody is really "wrong," per se.

[RJ]

I’ve got all of 13 matches lifetime, and am a 36% shooter in Production, so I’m not exactly at the top end but:

I really like my CR Speed Belt and DAA Racer mag pouches. Having a double Velcro belt is extremely convenient. I ran Ghost pouches for a while, but feel like the DAA Racers are a step up.

As to other stuff, I use Pro Grip gel, reapplied as needed during the match. To make reloading easier between stages, I pack a Maglula and a small 4” square white IKEA oddments tray in a 1 qt zip lock. I dump the rounds I need in the tray, then reload mags w the lula. Any extras get dumped back in the zip lock along with the tray and lula before the next stage.


I’m also transitioning to CO this summer. I got a couple 5 round extensions for two of my G34 mags and plan to carry 23+23+17 in a match, in three pouches. Defer to olstyn who knows a thing or two about what works on a Walther.

Good luck!

[Zincwarrior]

While I shoot Production, my compatriots in open etc.
Typically have at least four spare mags.

Alpha ,CR etc are all in the market on belts and mag holders. Look for the best deal and go for it. Stoegers website is great for having all that.

It's going to be rough this year with the ammo situation but next year will be better.

[Eyesquared]

I’ve decided to take the plunge and jump into USPSA this summer, with my first match being (hopefully) in June.

I will be shooting Carry Optics. Given the new rule change, my firearm will be a Walther PDP with Deltapoint and X300U. I have a holster on order, which will go on a Safariland UBL with QLS. The QLS setup is mostly because that’s what I have, but it should provide a reasonable drop and offset while staying within the rules.

My questions are for the remaining equipment:

Without jumping too far into the deep end (i.e. I’m willing to spend a couple hundred bucks, but nothing too crazy), what is recommended for a belt and magazine pouches? For just starting out with CO, is one mag in the gun and three on the belt sufficient? Should those mags have 140mm extensions or will 18rd mags be sufficient for just starting out?

I own plenty of shooting gear including a timer, so apart from a belt, holster, and mag pouches, is there anything else I should invest in now?

Thanks,

Double Alpha Academy belt is very stiff and fairly cheap. One on the gun and 3 on the belt will suffice. Honestly you can get away with 2 on the belt and 1 in your pants pocket to make ready with. I have three pouches on my belt but one of them is just for the convenience of not having to dig around in my pockets, I shoot stages with just 2 spare mags and 1 in the gun. 18 round mags will be fine, but if you feel like it I would just get 1 140mm extension and just start each stage with that mag in the gun.

For mag pouches the Ghost pouches, the DAA XiP, and the CR Speeds all seem to be perfectly adequate. They each have some quirks but nothing major.

[CleverNickname]

Three mags on the belt is more than enough for CO. I used to run three reloads and then I realized after several years I had literally never used the third reload, and only rarely even used the second reload, so I went to just using two reloads plus one mag in the gun.

18+1 won't really be that big of a disadvantage. You'll be reloading the same amount of times on most stages, but you might be forced into doing your reload at a slightly-less advantageous part of the course. Also, there may occasionally be something like a 20-round course where you'll have to do a reload but someone with a slightly larger magazine won't.

As for equipment, I'm on my sixth year of using a DAA Premium belt and DAA Racemaster mag carriers, and am pretty happy with them. I had to replace the inner belt once a couple years ago when it wore out, but that's like a $20 part.

[JCN]

Agree with everyone so far.

A stiff belt is really important to me for reproducibility of holster position and reducing twist and flex.

I use a Double Alpha like Eyesquared

I’d personally get at least one fully prepped magazine with extension (23 rounds typically) and you can use whatever for the other mag for the stage since total round count probably won’t exceed 23 plus 18 and you can start with whichever one you need in the gun for your stage plan.

Also, I’d buy at least one good adjustable mag pouch for your primary reloading one and the others can be whatever if you’re saving costs.

Most people at matches will be friendly and helpful. Just tell them you’re new and be friendly and paste and score when you can and people will go out of their way to help you!

[YVK]

DAA pair has a stiff outer belt and fairly floppy inner belt. CR is opposite. Matter of preference, I went with DAA. Don't go for expensive pouches, I've had most, from Ghost to DAA to Guga Ribas, still prefer either Ghosts or plastic CAA. I like three mags on my belt, covers various scenarios and screwups (unloaded start with mag in a pouch + indavertent mag drop or stoppage, for example).

I would absolutely go for the highest capacity mag 140 mm mag extension. I've shot a ton of high teens-20 round stages. 18 rounder leaves you no room for error (or aggression, depending how you look at it) and forces you to reload while your match mates will be faster by a couple of seconds just because no reload. I've seen multiple examples of people all the way up to supersquad whose mags supported 23+1 go all in, no reload, on 24 round stages if HF was high. Capacity is a huge advantage of minor PF, use it.

[olstyn]

Most people at matches will be friendly and helpful. Just tell them you’re new and be friendly and paste and score when you can and people will go out of their way to help you!

This may be the most important truth in the whole thread. :)

[andre3k]

I like most of Safarilands gear and thats what I tend to stick with. Their competition belts and mag pouches with ELS / QLS attachments works for USPSA 3-gun, and training classes. I converted the belt to a ratchet system and the entire setup continues to work well after 3 years of use.

Sent from my SM-G965U using Tapatalk

[andre3k]

I like most of Safarilands gear and thats what I tend to stick with. Their competition belts and mag pouches with ELS / QLS attachments works for USPSA 3-gun, and training classes. I converted the belt to a ratchet system and the entire setup continues to work well after 3 years of use.

Sent from my SM-G965U using Tapatalk

[Zincwarrior]

Also with the change to the magnet rules you should consider it, because it might see increased use by stage makers in the next year.

[Clusterfrack]

Double Alpha Academy belt is very stiff ...


T...sixth year of using a DAA Premium belt


...A stiff belt is really important to me for reproducibility of holster position and reducing twist and flex. ...I use a Double Alpha


DAA pair has a stiff outer belt ...I went with DAA.

Welcome to USPSA, ssb! You're going to have a blast.

This is what you call a clue. You want a Double Alpha belt. Don't bother with anything else.
https://www.doublealpha.biz/us/daa-premium-belt
https://benstoegerproshop.com/daa-premium-nylon-competition-double-belt-1-1-2-by-double-alpha-academy/

A 22 or 23 round mag, reloadable with slide forward, is going to make CO more fun for you.

I use Ghost Pouches, and prefer them to ones costing more than double. The plastic springs inside give reloads a cushion that i really like.
https://benstoegerproshop.com/copy-of-ghost-360-universal-magazine-pouch-with-magnet-uspsa-ipsc/
https://benstoegerproshop.com/ghost-360-universal-magazine-mag-pouch/

[jbrimlow]

I use Ghost Pouches, and prefer them to ones costing more than double. The plastic springs inside give reloads a cushion that i really like.


Anything else you like about the ghost pouches? (Just curious, haven't played with them much so I don't have an opinion one way or another).

[Clusterfrack]

Anything else you like about the ghost pouches? (Just curious, haven't played with them much so I don't have an opinion one way or another).

They are simple and work really well. I had CR Speed and aluminum AA pouches, and got rid of all of them.

(BTW I run bullets forward)

[ssb]

All:

First, thank you so much for the input. It would appear the DAA belt is a resounding “yes” from the crowd.

Second, I have shot enough IDPA to be familiar with the basics of competition (and the need to help out pasting), though I’m by no means good at competition - or at least that particular competition. I got frustrated with IDPA due to certain rule constraints and emphases from that particular game, but I think USPSA may be the ticket to get me out of my shooting development rut. Just an FYI - I’m not a total novice, but my background is definitely Timmy (classes from Weems, Harris, Givens, Rehn, Fisher, etc.). I’m looking at USPSA as a shooting development tool.

Third, I’m looking at the Ghost 360 pouches. (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01E5COQ9O/ref=ox_sc_act_title_2?smid=A1TANY4O6ZYYFX&psc=1) They check the affordability box and I’ve seen them pop up a few times in this thread. Is there any practical reason to go with anything different at this time?

Fourth, regarding magnets, I highly doubt a magnetic pouch will make a bit of actual difference to my score at this stage in my shooting career. I’ll revisit the idea after I have a few matches under my belt. Right now I want the basic equipment to get the job done.

Fifth, heard on the 140mms. It looks like Taylor Freelance has good Walther support on the 140mm front. I saw one recommendation for those. Is there any reason not to use these?

Sixth, is there anything else I’m missing? I have the gun, optic, holster, and probably the belt and pouches figured out here.

Finally, does anybody happen to know if a Safariland Mid Ride UBL puts holsters too low on the belt? My read of the rules says the heel of the grip must be above the belt. I’m planning on using a TRex Ragnarok on a QLS fork.

[Clusterfrack]

Glad to help.

I don't know about TF and Walther. If you can get an extension that holds 23 reloadable, and still fits the gauge, that is ideal.

There are only two belt hangers I know of that are stiff enough, and low profile:
https://shop.springerprecision.com/offset-hanger-bladetech-comp-tac-1-75-belts/
https://www.shootersconnectionstore.com/Nevermiss-Industries-Alpha-Hanger-P5957.aspx

I would pass on the Safariland plastic DOH thing. It's way too floppy.


All:

First, thank you so much for the input. It would appear the DAA belt is a resounding “yes” from the crowd.

Second, I have shot enough IDPA to be familiar with the basics of competition (and the need to help out pasting), though I’m by no means good at competition - or at least that particular competition. I got frustrated with IDPA due to certain rule constraints and emphases from that particular game, but I think USPSA may be the ticket to get me out of my shooting development rut. Just an FYI - I’m not a total novice, but my background is definitely Timmy (classes from Weems, Harris, Givens, Rehn, Fisher, etc.). I’m looking at USPSA as a shooting development tool.

Third, I’m looking at the Ghost 360 pouches. (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01E5COQ9O/ref=ox_sc_act_title_2?smid=A1TANY4O6ZYYFX&psc=1) They check the affordability box and I’ve seen them pop up a few times in this thread. Is there any practical reason to go with anything different at this time?

Fourth, regarding magnets, I highly doubt a magnetic pouch will make a bit of actual difference to my score at this stage in my shooting career. I’ll revisit the idea after I have a few matches under my belt. Right now I want the basic equipment to get the job done.

Fifth, heard on the 140mms. It looks like Taylor Freelance has good Walther support on the 140mm front. I saw one recommendation for those. Is there any reason not to use these?

Sixth, is there anything else I’m missing? I have the gun, optic, holster, and probably the belt and pouches figured out here.

Finally, does anybody happen to know if a Safariland Mid Ride UBL puts holsters too low on the belt? My read of the rules says the heel of the grip must be above the belt. I’m planning on using a TRex Ragnarok on a QLS fork.

[edison]

The DAA is a little too stiff/rigid for me. It doesn't really conform to my waist; feels like running around with a hula hoop.

The magnet might not help you in scores, but it's really convenient for unload/show clear & during training.

[JCN]

There are only two belt hangers I know of that are stiff enough, and low profile:
https://shop.springerprecision.com/offset-hanger-bladetech-comp-tac-1-75-belts/
https://www.shootersconnectionstore.com/Nevermiss-Industries-Alpha-Hanger-P5957.aspx

I would pass on the Safariland plastic DOH thing. It's way too floppy.

The springer precision is the one that comes with Red Hill Tactical holster and it’s pretty good.

I like the Stoeger BOSS hanger too.
https://benstoegerproshop.com/bsps-boss-doh-holster-hanger-hanger-mount-only/

[Clusterfrack]

The springer precision is the one that comes with Red Hill Tactical holster and it’s pretty good.

I like the Stoeger BOSS hanger too.
https://benstoegerproshop.com/bsps-boss-doh-holster-hanger-hanger-mount-only/

I like the Boss for stiffness and adjustability, but it sticks down and interferes with my leg when I need to do ninja moves.

The “roll axis” adjustment of the Boss is really good for ladies with hips, and wider dudes.

[JCS]

It’s a deep dangerous dive into the gear world of uspsa. Welcome! As someone who just jumped in headfirst I’d probably go with the ghost pouches and a double layer belt.

You can get deep into mag extensions as well with all the different base pads plus followers. +6 doesn’t always mean +6 with one in the tube so make sure to test them out.

I do believe a drop offset hanger is something I would get and I wouldn’t care about the holster.

Everyone says run what you have and shoot a few matches and I wish I would’ve done that.

[JCN]

I do believe a drop offset hanger is something I would get and I wouldn’t care about the holster.

With a Dremel you can cut a “speed notch” in any holster that lets you clear the holster with the muzzle faster. Basically it’s clearanced to the ejection port.


I like the Boss for stiffness and adjustability, but it sticks down and interferes with my leg when I need to do ninja moves.

The “roll axis” adjustment of the Boss is really good for ladies with hips, and wider dudes.

Did you just call me a wide dude with lady like hips?!!!!!

:D

I agree wifh the hang down poking the leg depending on how it’s set up.

[Clusterfrack]

Did you just call me a wide dude with lady like hips?!!!!!


HAHAAHHA!!! I didn't intend to, but ... maybe?

[olstyn]

I don't know about TF and Walther. If you can get an extension that holds 23 reloadable, and still fits the gauge, that is ideal.

Looks like the TF 140mm base pads for the PDP are only claiming to be +3, so that would be 21. Does anybody have a picture of the followers from PDP mags? I'm curious whether they're the same as the PPQ/P99 followers, which have some seriously long anti-tilt legs. In the P99/PPQ application, the 140mm extensions from TF claim to be +6, or 21 rounds, but I found that they'll take 22 if you use P99c followers, which have shorter legs. I imagine that even if P99c followers can't be used in the PDP, the legs could be shaved down enough to get 22 rounds in a 140mm mag pretty easily, but 23 might be pushing it.

[Clusterfrack]

Here’s the 23+1 kit

https://benstoegerproshop.com/walther-q5-match-23-1-carry-optic-mag-kit/

[olstyn]

Ah, must be the Grams spring + follower that gets that last +1 vs my setup of TF 140mm base pad with the "normal" TF spring and P99c follower. Obviously that follower has no legs at all, but does the spring also have geometry such that it compresses inside itself or something? Seems kind of like witchcraft, and I personally dislike the fact that it "may or may not lock back on empty." (I understand many people do not care about this, and I think it's a topic on which reasonable people can disagree.)

[ASH556]

3gunner, not USPSA, so there may be some differences here. I use a CR Speed inner/outer belt system with Arredondo belt lock, Bladetech holster attached to belt with Techlok and DOH and Comp-Tac pistol mag pouches. Completely different games, I realize, but also, 24 12ga shells across the front of your belt with a pistol mag and rifle mag on the weak side weighs a lot more than 3 pistol mags. The CR Speed has rounded stitching on the edges so you don't get dug into as bad over a long day and during stage re-sets. Now, my gear is also all 2014-2015 vintage, so take that for what it's worth, but then again it's held up.

So, there's my experience and opinion. I'm curious to hear from the AA guys what you prefer about the belt.

[Clusterfrack]

I'm curious to hear from the AA guys what you prefer about the belt.

It's stiffer than the CR Speed belt. That's it.

[YVK]

The DAA is a little too stiff/rigid for me. It doesn't really conform to my waist; feels like running around with a hula hoop.


That is true and is the reason why some people prefer slightly less rigid CR belt that conforms better. I think that GJM likes CR, if I remember right. However, the DAA will do that too but over longer period of time so it just needs a [considerably] longer break-in.

Personally, I spend some extra attention to the inner belt. I don't like the DAA one, I think it is too floppy and provides no support of its own, only attaches the outer belt to your pants. I like CR inner better and I've actually spent some extra on stiffer and thicker aftermarket inner belts.

[GJM]

This belt is the bomb, and makes your inner belt almost insignificant. More and more of my friends are wearing them.

https://dominatedefense.com/product/mach-1-outer-belt/

[msstate56]

A bit late to the party,

I run the AA premium belt as well. I love a super stiff belt- and the AA is perfect for me. I run the same belt in USPSA, Steel Challenge, and 3 Gun. I have Safariland ELS clips mounted all around the belt to reconfigure pouches based on the stage or match. I also run the BOSS hanger with a Safariland QLS mount so I can swap out holsters, or remove it for a non pistol stage. I modified some neoprene on the lower part of the BOSS shank for the “digging into the leg” thing.

I have a collection of parts that aren’t made to work together- professionally modified by yours truly to work together. When I first started out I ran the AA racer pouches (the plastic ones). I managed to break every single one of the attachments. AA sent me new ones, which I promptly cracked as well. I noticed a weakness in the design/materials which I pointed out to AA. They said I was using them wrong??? Anyway, I had $200+ in pouches that I liked (Glock and AR). So I set out to make it work for me...

I really like the Safariland ELS clips for security, stability and ease of removal. But they don’t work with AA pouches, or at least they didn’t before I got ahold of them. Armed with my stippling iron (wood burner), I proceeded to melt a Safariland T nut into the center of a ELS clip. Then I drilled and tapped the T nut to match the threads of the mounting bolt of the Racer pouch. Voila, AA pouch on a Safariland ELS fork. Then how to mount the ELS to the belt? Some melt a hole in the belt to run the mounting screws. I like to reconfigure my stuff too often, so I decided to go with heavy duty zip ties. I run two 8” zip ties through a modified mounting hole in the ELS plate. With a total of 150 pounds of breaking strength- I’ve yet to break one off the belt in over 10 years worth of matches.

Or you could just buy equipment that is made to work right from the get go. But I’ve been accused of being a bit of a “tinkerer.”

[Clusterfrack]

This belt is the bomb, and makes your inner belt almost insignificant. More and more of my friends are wearing them.

https://dominatedefense.com/product/mach-1-outer-belt/

I think there may be different generations of these out there. One supposedly has a metal stiffener inside the outer belt. The advertised materials are just SCUBA webbing though. The ones I've felt, and the one that one of our local GMs bought were not stiff at all.

How does the stiffness of yours compare with a AA belt?

[Clusterfrack]

I have a collection of parts that aren’t made to work together- professionally modified by yours truly to work together. When I first started out I ran the AA racer pouches (the plastic ones). I managed to break every single one of the attachments. AA sent me new ones, which I promptly cracked as well. I noticed a weakness in the design/materials which I pointed out to AA. They said I was using them wrong???

Yikes. Did you use Locktite by any chance? Locktite causes crazing and stress fractures in ABS plastic. It will destroy a plastic mag pouch.

[msstate56]

Yikes. Did you use Locktite by any chance? Locktite causes crazing and stress fractures in ABS plastic. It will destroy a plastic mag pouch.

No, they all cracked in the exact same spot on the belt attachment. Right around where the nut was molded into the plastic. They claimed I was “over tightening” the screws. I said I would at least like them tight enough on the belt to not slide around before they break??? They plastic was just too weak.

[Gio]

Third, I’m looking at the Ghost 360 pouches. (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01E5COQ9O/ref=ox_sc_act_title_2?smid=A1TANY4O6ZYYFX&psc=1) They check the affordability box and I’ve seen them pop up a few times in this thread. Is there any practical reason to go with anything different at this time?.

I started out with the Ghost pouches and hated them. Ended up going to DAA racers which were great for 7-8 years, then I upgraded to the new DAA XiP and they are even better.

[steve]

I just did my first match last month. I read up on it as much as I could and almost everyone said it is the shooter not the holster or belt so just go and have fun. I did that with an uncle mikes Kydex holster and mag pouches. I had a blast and didn't play the game right. I shot too slow and ended up middle of the pack with the most a-zone hits and one of the slowest times. I would take what you have go have fun and work your equipment out as you go along. Don't spend the big bucks up front and see if you like it. (I like it and am going back.)

[WDR]

Has anyone had any experience with the Tuff Products belts? Yes, the same folks that make revolver speed strips...

Reason I ask: I have a new G34, and I'm thinking about making up a gamer rig for it, since I need a holster anyway. I have not shot in USPSA in a long time, but I'm sorta fiddling with the idea of giving it a go again. I'd probably shoot CO, like everyone else these days. I found this after poking around previously linked gear:

https://benstoegerproshop.com/uspsa-essentials-holster-belt-mag-pouch-rig/

I've been happy with Comp-Tac products in the past, and that particular holster could be set up for regular belt carry, if I ended up not going the gamer route. I'm not sure if that holster would hang onto my Gen5 Glock 19's, but I imagine it'd probably work. The belt and pouches are decent by most accounts. Then I started poking around on Amazon and found the Tuff belts (and a bunch of dubious off brand crap), that same holster, and the Ghost pouches, and I end up with a price just a smidge (~$20-25) under what it'd cost from Stoger.

Just rolling ideas around in my head right now, as I'm not sure which way I really want to go. Something Safariland with a hood covering the optic would be nice for a bang around desert/woods rig, but would increase costs substantially, and be less useful for gaming (to be frank, I probably wouldn't be anywhere near competitive, so the speed penalty is a wash for me).

[OldRunner/CSAT Neighbor]

This belt is the bomb, and makes your inner belt almost insignificant. More and more of my friends are wearing them.

https://dominatedefense.com/product/mach-1-outer-belt/

Props to you/C as my Dom. Defense belt plus GX vice holster are an excellent combo, gracias mi amigo.

[jbrimlow]

I found this solution to mount pouches with ELS forks on a non-Safariland belt without having to mess around with the belt too much:

https://www.binaryeng.com/products/els-compatible-belt-clip

I guess they're a little pricey, but they're aluminum, well made, and convenient.

[Clusterfrack]

I ordered the new Double Alpha Lynx Belt. It's a very innovative design that uses hinged, rigid, nylon tiles. (Note: I didn't order the fugly color pattern pictured below).

https://www.doublealpha.biz/us/daa-lynx-belt

https://www.doublealpha.biz/us/images/2090/3299/600x600/daa-lynx-belt.png

[EricM]

Just saw the email about that this morning...of course it comes out just one week after I ordered a pair of DAA Premium Belts based on the advice in this thread. :p Look forward to your impressions.

[Zincwarrior]

I ordered the new Double Alpha Lynx Belt. It's a very innovative design that uses hinged, rigid, nylon tiles. (Note: I didn't order the fugly color pattern pictured below).

https://www.doublealpha.biz/us/daa-lynx-belt

https://www.doublealpha.biz/us/images/2090/3299/600x600/daa-lynx-belt.png

That looks more than a bit uncomfortable to me.

[Clusterfrack]

That looks more than a bit uncomfortable to me.

Yeah, comfort isn't the main concern. But compared to a Double Alpha competition belt, I think it will be more comfortable because it can conform to the body better.

[Zincwarrior]

Fair enough. If it works it works.

[YVK]

DAA's disclaimer that Lynx belt is only compatible with DAA holsters and pouches prevented me from trying one. I suspect that it might work with other stuff but I'll be waiting for independent reports.

[jbrimlow]

DAA's disclaimer that Lynx belt is only compatible with DAA holsters and pouches prevented me from trying one. I suspect that it might work with other stuff but I'll be waiting for independent reports.

Anything in particular you want tested? I went and got a Lynx belt. Despite my initial skepticism, I love it.

[rob_s]

I ordered the new Double Alpha Lynx Belt. It's a very innovative design that uses hinged, rigid, nylon tiles. (Note: I didn't order the fugly color pattern pictured below).

https://www.doublealpha.biz/us/daa-lynx-belt

https://www.doublealpha.biz/us/images/2090/3299/600x600/daa-lynx-belt.png

I just saw someone with one of these this weekend for the first time. I admit, I struggle to understand the benefit?

[jbrimlow]

I just saw someone with one of these this weekend for the first time. I admit, I struggle to understand the benefit?

It's noticeably more rigid and more comfortable than a regular belt. My other belts are a DAA Premium belt and a Dominate Defense Mach 1, and this is more rigid and more comfortable than both.

Minor things: it 'folds' up easier into a compact shape that fits in a range bag/travel bag really well. Also, the "buckle" thingy lets me fasten my belt in front again, even with a bunch of stuff mounted in front of the hip bones.

YMMV on how much the above matters. Those with lighter guns may not care at all.

[jbrimlow]

HumbleMarksman's review of the Lynx belt.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kVe2RI7q0gw

[Clusterfrack]

I just saw someone with one of these this weekend for the first time. I admit, I struggle to understand the benefit?

I played with mine, and have it set up with spare holster and pouches. It's a very innovative design. I'm glad to see AA continue to release novel products.

Pros: Rigid vertically, flexible laterally, adjustable, folds for travel and storage, very strong velcro, interesting look.

Con: Does not play well with holsters and pouches that have attachments wider than each belt section (as stated in item description). I do not like AA pouches, and do not use their holsters or hangers. I managed to make it work with my setup, by spanning two tiles. So, it works ok.

Bottom line: I still prefer the traditional AA belt.

[rob_s]

Pros: Rigid vertically, flexible laterally
these are very strong pros for me, and I agree that this is what you want in terms of flexible/rigid


Con: Does not play well with holsters and pouches that have attachments wider than each belt section (as stated in item description). I do not like AA pouches, and do not use their holsters or hangers.
so, and no surprise here, works best within it's own ecosystem?

I meant to ask the guy about it on Sunday but forgot.

ETA:

So you'd really want this
https://www.doublealpha.biz/us/catalog/product?products_id=1112%7B13%7D166%7B12%7D173

and this (for example)
https://www.doublealpha.biz/us/combo-3x-race-master-pouch

and it ought to work with this?
https://www.doublealpha.biz/us/daa-pcc-magazine-pouch

[jbrimlow]

these are very strong pros for me, and I agree that this is what you want in terms of flexible/rigid


so, and no surprise here, works best within it's own ecosystem?

I meant to ask the guy about it on Sunday but forgot.

ETA:

So you'd really want this
https://www.doublealpha.biz/us/catalog/product?products_id=1112%7B13%7D166%7B12%7D173

and this (for example)
https://www.doublealpha.biz/us/combo-3x-race-master-pouch

and it ought to work with this?
https://www.doublealpha.biz/us/daa-pcc-magazine-pouch

Yeah, that should work great. Note DAA suggests mounting over the hinges not in the middle of the links:

https://content.invisioncic.com/r270761/monthly_2021_08/169994294_WigglingDAALynxBelt.thumb.jpg.81e6d8ad2e 32fd9e9737a820bb1d19a1.jpg

[YVK]

Anything in particular you want tested? I went and got a Lynx belt. Despite my initial skepticism, I love it.

I run Ghost pouches and Boss hanger on my belts. You think they can be mounted on this one?

[jbrimlow]

I run Ghost pouches and Boss hanger on my belts. You think they can be mounted on this one?

Those should both work. Some nice pictures @ 2:32 in the Humble video review I posted earlier:

https://youtu.be/kVe2RI7q0gw?t=151
he tests those and some other stuff.

Also the links themselves are super cheap, so you could always file on them or even drill holes to fit/mount things.

[Clusterfrack]

I run Ghost pouches and Boss hanger on my belts. You think they can be mounted on this one?

That’s what I have on there. It was a hassle to mount because of the thickness of the belt.