By Scott Smith | Contributing editor
Last time we visited my FN Hi-Power we discussed the fine work of KGB Custom (Nov 4).
Front view of 5.11 Tactical’s MRBS, all of the MOLLE straps with Sidewinder Straps attached.
This time out we are going to look at a new range bag and holsters for range or CCW carry. First let’s see look at a new range bag for it from 5.11 Tactical (Phone: 866-451-1726; Online: 511tactical.com), The Range Master Backpack Set 33L.
As the name implies the Range Master Backpack Set is a system designed around a backpack. For the past several years I have been using a backpack for USPSA matches and found it to be much better than traditional shoulder carried duffle bag style bags. At first glance I knew 5.11’s new bag would be an improvement over my well-traveled one, because from the start it is built to be a range bag.
Beginning with the exterior, there are two pockets on the front of the pack. You will find the small top pocket a good place to carry your phone, camera, keys, and other items. At the bottom of the main body is a semi-rigid lower pocket with magazine loops and four slash pockets for lubricant, small tools, etc., and two slots for pens. This pocket is lockable and has a loop strip to attach a hook backed name tag.
On the main flap and sides, you will find numerous MOLLE strips to attach other pouches to meet your needs. There are also cinch two cinch straps for large items. You will notice I added a pair of large Sidewinder Straps (MSRP $14.99) to keep my rain jacket easily accessible. On the side I mounted my IFAK in case of an injury.
What I found sets this backpack apart from others is the back of the pack. It has a semi-rigid frame which helps distribute the load for long treks. The close cell foam ventilation ribs are covered with a touch mesh to give better airflow.
The adjustable backpack straps use the same closed cell foam and mesh. I have not seen this on other packs. I am sure when hiking between stages this will be a welcome feature. 5.11 added a chest strap in case you are carrying an uneven load. This strap will keep it in place. Above the straps is another pocket that can accommodate a 100-ounce hydration bladder. If you need to grab the backpack just above this zipper is a padded carry handle.
The interior of the main flap has a dual access mesh zipper pocket. I liked the large “U” zipper of the main pouch with lockable pulls. This style zipper allows the front flap to completely open the body of the pack. It might not seem like a big deal, but this makes it easier to get your ammunition out of the system’s ammunition pouch.
Like the backpack, the ammunition pouch has a “U” zipper. When the pouch is completely open it is easy to put 150 rounds of factory packaged 9mm. There is a loop patch on top of the ammunition pouch for an ID strip so you know what kind of ammunition you have without opening it.
When it comes to all round carry this hydrographic dipped Blade-Tech OWB is the standard all other kydex holsters strive to meet.
The last part of the Range Master Backpack Set is the padded single pistol case. 5.11 again uses dual lockable zippers making access to the five magazines stored in the retainer and zipper pocket for the pistol easier. It should be noted the single pistol case will not fit an Open Class pistol. I found Glock 34s, 1911s, Sig P320 X5s all fit easily.
Overall I found the Range Master Backpack Set to be well made. All of seam ends are have sewn wraps. This keeps the ends from fraying, helping to ensure you get longer life out of the pack. You will find the zippers are all double sewn, again for durability. When you look at all of the small details of this system, it is worth the MSRP of $169.99. When compare to other quality range bags, The Range Master Backpack Set, is more than comparable; it surpasses the competition.
Now that we have you covered for the range, what are some options for carry/competition? I am a fan of Blade-Tech’s (Phone: 877-331-5793; Online: blade-tech.com) Classic OWB that retails for $79.99. This holster has been the staple of Blade-Tech’s line. It is a fast, secure OWB that ships with a Tek-Lok and Adjustable Sting Ray belt mount. You can also use a paddle and offset mounts to position the pistol properly for you. I generally use the paddle for easy on/off. This is especially in colder months for daily carry or to shoot a match.
If you prefer another style holster, Blade-Tech has you covered. They offer thigh holsters, pancake style and IWB rigs. Blade-Tech has been cranking out holsters and accessories for more than 25 years. From experience I can tell you if you do not see exactly what you need, call them and discuss your needs.
If you travel a lot you will be hard pressed to find a more comfortable holster than Milt Sparks’ #60TK.
For those who prefer leather, there are many manufactures out there. I am a fan of Mernickle Holsters (Phone: 800-497-3166; Online: mernickleholsters.com) and Milt Sparks (Phone; 208-377-5577; Online: miltsparks.com). Both companies offer a variety of carry options and build holsters for the discerning handgun owner.
My first custom holster was my Milt Sparks #60TK ($130 in cowhide). The design of the #60TK has changed a bit since I received mine. My holster is reinforced at the rear with a metal strip while new models have it at the front.
What I like about the #60TK is it sits high, clearing the seatbelt; giving you easy access should you need it. In the past 15 years, this holster has traveled all over the country and has been used for competition, qualification and courses at Gunsite and other shooting schools. Even with its age and miles this Milt Sparks #60TK is still perfect. The #60Tk is only available for 1911s, Commanders and Browning Hi-Power, according to their website.
When it comes to offering the customer a wide variety of holsters, Mernickle Holsters is the place to go. Mernickle has holsters for SASS, IDPA, USPA, or duty daily carry as well as a myriad of leather accessories. I can honestly say, if you need leather gear for most any firearms application, you will find it here.
Mernickle Holsters’ PS6R1 adds an extra strap to help prevent your handgun from printing when carrying a full size steel pistol like a high power.
I own two Mernickle holsters; the PS6R1 for daily carry because it keeps my Hi-Power clear of the seatbelt. The additional leather flap in the rear of the PS6R1 ($89.95) keeps the holster stable when carrying a full sized steel pistol like a Hi-Power or 1911. Over the years I have found this holster to be ideal for driving and competition. It is as fast as it is secure, making it a good all-around holster.
When I started running Beretta 92s for competition, I wanted a unique, fast secure leather holster. I knew of one holster that would fit bill; Mernickle’s Wild Bunch Classic ($139.995). What sets the Wild Bunch Classic apart from other holsters is the steel reinforced mouth and belt loop shank. This allows you to adjust the cant and “tension” on the pistol. For further security, when not shooting there is a leather strap that fits over the hammer. After numerous USPSA matches across the country I give this pistol two thumbs up for competition. I would also gladly use the Wild Bunch Classic for daily carry if I was working a ranch/farm.
All of the holsters, except the #60TK can be had for a wide of pistols. Contact the manufactures to see what they have to fit your preferred handgun. I am certain you will find one to meet your needs.
Hopefully between these holsters and 5.11 Tactical’s Master Backpack Set we have given you a few ideas to carry your handguns and gear to the range. With Christmas around the corner you could surprise someone and make their day so they can get out to the range. Practice will help them shoot fast, shoot accurately and have fun doing it.
