STL Shooting Enthusiasts

Sig has been refining its emergent optic line since it first debuted them in 2016. As I discussed in my initial post on the Romeo 5, the little-optic-that-could has all the characteristics of an inexpensive, yet reliable, Red Dot Sight (RDS) that could give even some Aimpoint or Trijicon RDS’ a run for their money. With few marks against it, the Romeo 5 would be a solid choice for any novice shooter, or even an experienced one.

t/sdcard/DCIM/100GOPRO/GOPR0006

I’ve been running this optic since February; and its been out in the cold, through our (very) brief Midwest eight-day spring, and right into the summer heat. I’ve had it through static drills, stressors, and competition. And while I could continue to put the optic through its paces, fact is it is unlikely to change the results more than what I have concluded. Plus I have more optics coming in to test and I need the rail space.

If you’d like to review the optic’s full specs, those and my initial zeroing observation is posted here.

Sig Romeo 5 Highlight Features Include:

• Motion Activated Illumination (MOTAC) – shutting down the optic when not in use and instantly activates the system when it senses the slightest vibration or movement. This feature extends the battery life to reportedly 40,000+ hours
• Spectracoat – Described as a highly efficient, ultra-wide broadband, anti-reflection lens coating that reduce surface reflections to extremely low levels across the entire visible spectrum providing superior light transmission
• Stealth ID – Design features inspired by our legendary firearms; trapezoidal surfacing that breaks up the shape and visibility of the optic

Some Sig Romeo Specs:

• Dot: 2 MOA with 10 illumination settings (eight for daylight, two for night vision)
• Integrated M1913 Picatinny mounting system
• Waterproof up to 1m and fogproof
• Box includes one CR2032 battery, one low-riser mount and one co-witness (1.41″) mount

Product Evaluation Scores:

• Cost – Good (4/5): Initially at $129, the Romeo 5 was very well priced for the capabilities offered. Had Sig invested a little more into hardening the exterior coating (which seems to be a recurring issue among the Romeo optic line) the added cost per unit would have been minimal. But when put in comparison to the market of RDS optics, such as Holosun, Aimpoint, Trijicon and more, the Romeo is clearly marketed as a budget-friendly optic. Sig recently transitioned the Romeo 5 to a “Tread” version featuring their interpretation of the Gadsden snake for $149, while bumping the original model up to $219. You can still find the original $129 on sites like Amazon, but be vary cautious as there are knockoffs and sellers with ulterior motives (like selling a broken or floor optic that is advertised as “new”).
• Comfort – Good (4/5): The 2MOA dot was clearly visible indoors and out, with only minimal pixelation around the dot at the higher brightness values. While this is notable in comparison to higher-end RDS systems like RMRs or a C-More, it is not to the point of effecting accuracy or function.
• Durability – Fair (2/5): The Romeo 5 earned split marks in durability. While there is extensive evidence into the robust design of the RDS (a simple internet search reveals owners freezing it in ice, driving over it with trucks, dropping it, and shooting it with a shotgun), the exterior coating is marginal at best. During my time utilizing the optic, I picked up several deep scratches down to the metal when the optic contacted the sling’s metal hardware, during transition drills, or in general use. At one point I swiped my thumb across the “Sig Sauer” logo and some of the white paint smeared off with it. My initial premise that the rubberized lens covers would be the first to suffer proved correct as the plastic attracted all manner of debris and warped similar to a rubber band. Through it all the Romeo 5 optic maintained zero and the lenses remained clear and unblemished.
• Functionality – Good (4/5): As an RDS, the Romeo 5 is very straight forward and simple. Easy to turn on, and in the event you forget, the optic’s MOTAC will automatically turn off the device for you (a feature that can be disabled if you choose) thus maximize battery life. The adjustment caps have an integrated tab to assist in adjusting the windage/elevation dials, which have a clear and tangible click to them. The included mounts at varying heights are an extra bonus.
• Weight – Good (4/5): At just 12.2 ounces (excluding your choice in mount) the Romeo 5 is very light, and in comparison to other micro RDS systems is equatable in weight.

Overall Rating – Above Average (18/25)

Product Link: https://www.sigsauer.com/products/electro-optics/red-dot-sights/romeo5/

I am reviewing this product as a courtesy to the manufacturer and via STL Shooting Enthusiasts, so that I can evaluate it and provide my honest feedback. I am not bound by any written, verbal, or implied contract to give positive reviews. All views are my own, and based off my personal experience with the product.

The views and opinions expressed on this website are solely those of the author. The views and opinions do not necessarily represent those of the administrative staff, and/or any/all contributors to this site.

Released in 2018, the 24-7 Series®, 24-7 Xpedition® Pants by TRU-SPEC® are one of 12 variants in that line of tactical trousers. With all the features and flexibility into these pants, users will be ready for any environment be it the range or field.

Constructed from a polyester/cotton blend in a rip-stop weave pattern, the principle fabric in the Xpedition pants are also dipped in a DWR water repellent. Accents on the pants are a 91% nylon, 9% spandex, and double weave for added flexibilty and breathability.

At the waist, the Xpedition pants have six 2” wide belt loops (two on the front, four on the back) with a comfort-fit slide waistband that adds an extra 2” overall to the waistline. Both front belt loops feature a small carabiner loop to hang keys or clip. The cut of the Xpedition pant is a straight hip-to-ankle, with articulation designed into the knees to match the natural movement range of the body. The two front pockets are a deep slash pattern with reinforcement to the bottom edge for carrying EDC items or items with retention clips. The rear pockets consist of a flap pocket on the left side and secured via snap button, and a zipper-secured pocket on the right. The Xpedition pant have a French-style fly with double button and YKK zipper for added security.

Mid-thigh features two cargo pockets made of the elastic accent material, inside which is a D-ring to hang keys and thereby prevent them from balling up at the bottom of the pocket, with both secured by a hidden snap button. Behind the right cargo pocket is a DropN pocket intended to accommodate most modern smartphones (even in a hardcase), and behind the left is a zipper-secured pocket for added security. The outside-facing edge to both cargo pockets feature zippered mesh ventilation material, a feature that repeats at the calf and overall adds to airflow within the Xpedition pant.

t/sdcard/DCIM/100GOPRO/GOPR0097

More added features include a large gusset in the groin for range of motion, and at the pant cuff an added band of nylon webbing for added strength and durability while wearing duty boots. Lastly, each cuff features adjustment snaps with boot hooks to ensure the overall length of the pant does not ride up or down.

The Xpedition pants come in nine colors including OD Green/Black (featured), Khaki, Navy, Black/Charcoal, Multicam/Coyote, and more. Its sizing runs from 28” – 44” waistlines with a 30”, 32”, or 34” inseam, or 34” – 40” waistlines with a 36” inseam.

Product Evaluation Scores:

• Cost – Good (4/5): With an MSRP of $116.95, one can often find sales for these pants down to even $95 making them extremely affordable for all the features, design, and material. Given the applicable range of tactical pants out there, from Crye Precision to custom manufacturers, TRU-SPEC® offers a great deal on these well-designed trousers.
• Comfort – Excellent (5/5): For moderate to high-temperature environments, the Xpedition pants offer a great deal of breathability and comfort. This is in large part to the four-directional accent material that not only aids in moisture control, but airflow regardless of position. Obviously, these pants were not designed for cold-weather, but that’s not to say you couldn’t just dress in layers and still take advantage of the Xpedition’s flexible material. The elastic waistband material ensures that regardless of changes to waistline, you will still find a comfortable fit. It should be noted for the consumer, the Xpedition pant runs on the long side of inseam measurement, and TRU-SPEC® confirmed this is on purpose so as to accommodate for rise in the pant while taking a knee or wearing boots, so the buyer need not add to their current inseam length when ordering.
• Durability – Good (4/5): While TRU-SPEC® does not list the denier rating of the material in the Xpedition pants, the 6.5-ounce polyester/cotton blend used is among some of the industry standard for tactical clothing, and offers a balance between abrasion resistance and flexibility. The added rip-stop pattern used to weave that material ensures that if any damage does occur, it does not compromise the overall garment. Added reinforcement stitching and nylon in high-use areas, like the pant cuff and gusset, will ensure longevity.
• Functionality – Excellent (5/5): I couldn’t imagine more functionality in a pair of pants, shy of changing the knee pads slots and moving them to the outside where the pads could be easily added/removed (necessitating impact knee pads instead of neoprene inserts). Otherwise with all the pockets, rings, snaps, and flexibility, the Xpedition pants don’t hedge back anything on functionality.
• Weight – Good (4/5): The weight of each pant varies depending on size due to mass of material used in different waistline and inseam measurements. In this case, the featured pants were a 38” waist and 36” inseam that weighed 1.7 pounds. The use of both a polyester/cotton blend, with elastic accents, allow the Xpedition pants to reduce the weight of the tactical pants while retaining its greater functionality.

Overall Rating – Very Good (22/25)

Product Link: https://www.truspec.com/24-7-series/pants/men-s-24-7-xpedition-pants

I am reviewing this product as a courtesy to the manufacturer and via STL Shooting Enthusiasts, so that I can evaluate it and provide my honest feedback. I am not bound by any written, verbal, or implied contract to give positive reviews. All views are my own, and based off my personal experience with the product.

The views and opinions expressed on this website are solely those of the author. The views and opinions do not necessarily represent those of the administrative staff, and/or any/all contributors to this site.

Released in mid-2018, the V730 is one of several in Pelican’s newest Vault series of hard cases. The V730 is specifically designed for full-sized tactical rifles, but can accommodate a variety of items to fit within it. The Vault series of cases continues to provide Pelican’s leading protective cases to consumers using its proven materials and design.

As with all Pelican cases, the V730 Tactical Rifle Case is made from Polypropylene to deliver a watertight, crushproof, and dustproof case that provides a significant amount of external protection. The V730 is considered the revision to the traditional Pelican iM3300 Storm rifle case, but includes a refresh design and new features specific for the consumer.

Exterior

With an overall exterior dimension of 47.12” (L) x 19.18” (H) x 6.90” (W), the V730’s exterior is comprised of Pelican’s traditional open-cell polymer construction for maximum strength and an impact resistant shell.

The V730 includes six newly redesigned push-button latches that secure the lid to the bottom. In addition, there are three heavy-duty, ergonomic and foldable handles on either end to aid in picking up.

Several protective features built into the V730 are its four stainless-steel padlock protectors, and its an automatic pressure equalization valve.

The V730 has two polyurethane wheels to aid in rolling and transport of the case and its fully packed weight. Three high-visibility panels on the front aid in easy identification of the opening side.

Interior

With an interior space of 44.00” (L) x 16.00” (H) x 6.25” (W), the V730 has an overall internal storage capacity of 2.55 ft³.

A one-piece, rubberized O-ring provides a watertight seal to the interior storage space.

The V730 comes with five layers of open-cell, one-piece foam that is customizable to meet storage needs.

Specifications:

• The Vault series comes with Pelican’s 1-year Guarantee of Excellence

The V730 Tactical Rifle Case comes in Black (featured), and Desert Tan.

Product Evaluation Scores:

• Cost – Good (4/5): At $189.95 the newer Vault series by Pelican is intended to be a more cost-effective option for consumers who want Pelican’s renown legacy in protective hard cases, but have shied away from the higher price tags to some of its previous product lines. For example, the V730’s direct Pelican comparison is the iM3300 long rifle case ($269.95) which has been around for years with a proven history professional, and in the field. Arguably there are any number of direct competitors to the V730, one competitor would include the iSeries 4719 Double rifle case by SKB ($379.99) or the Mil-Spec Double Long Rifle case by Plano ($249.99), yet both demonstrate a higher price point for the consumer and thus highlight the affordability of the Vault product line.
• Comfort – Good (4/5): While the 44” length of the V730 case was long enough to accommodate any full-sized rifle; the third, middle handle made transporting and maneuvering the case much easier than if it had only had two. The high-visibility panels made it easy to recognize the top and opening side – even in low light. The push-button latches were a notable improvement over more traditional C-type clamps, and provided an additional level of security against accidental opening (despite continually trying to force it open from the bottom of the latch). One difference between the Vault and Protector series was the absence of locking cleats on the exterior of the Vault, and that resulted in the case sliding off when stacked on top of other cases (the resolution was to use retention/cargo straps or stack vertically between other cases).
• Durability – Good (4/5): Made from Polyethylene a type of high-density plastic similar to high-density polyethylene, the principle material of the V730 (and indeed almost all of Pelican’s hard cases) was amazingly durable and resistant to shock. The open-cell foam inserts provided added protection to the equipment and firearms contained inside (more so if the user takes the time to cut specific patterns into the one-piece foam for a specific item), but the foam (by design) tore somewhat easily. The case was dragged over rocks, thrown into a truckbed a number of times, and left out in inclement weather (cold/rain) with no detrimental effect to the foam, stored contents (although some surface marring was noted), or moisture penetration.
• Functionality – Average (3/5): From a functional aspect, the V730 is similar to other Pelican hard cases – it being a protective box. Pelican has a large array of products for the consumer, military/LEOs, first responders and more to choose one that best fits their specific needs. And while the V730 had improved angles and new push-button latches, the Vault series was designed more for the consumer in mind, and not members of the military or first responders. Features like the rolling wheels and the pressurization valve were essential as part of the design for long-term use or carrying. The stainless-steel protectors and hinge pins likewise fill an essential aspect of design as it ensured forced entry (shy of cutting) wasn’t possible. As noted above, the lack of rigidity due to the absence of locking cleats was offset on the side by the reinforcement to the push-button latches, but the lid and base themselves lacked that added reinforcement. Thus, when opened, the lid had a little play in it given its one-piece design. This was less noticeable in the base, having for sides to draw on for structure. Since the V730 is intended as a long rifle case, there were fewer aftermarket applications that could expand the case’s functionality beyond its current application.
• Weight – Average (3/5): For its size and the volume of Polypropylene material, the V730 weighed 22.07 pounds with foam (17.30 pounds w/o foam). The advent of the third handle midway along the length of the case defiantly made moving it (loaded or empty) easy. In comparison to the market alternatives noted above, the SKB case weighed 21 pounds (with an interior storage dimension of 46” x 18” x 7.5”) and the Plano (being slightly larger) weighed 28 pounds (with an interior of 54” x 15” x 6.38”). Thus, the V730 had a weight appropriate (meaning not lighter nor heavier than competitors) to its materials and dimensions, and sacrificed nothing to the hard case’s protective qualities.

Overall Rating – Above Average (18/25)

Product Link: https://www.pelican.com/us/en/product/cases/tactical-rifle-case/vault/v730

I am reviewing this product as a courtesy to the manufacturer and via STL Shooting Enthusiasts, so that I can evaluate it and provide my honest feedback. I am not bound by any written, verbal, or implied contract to give positive reviews. All views are my own, and based off my personal experience with the product.

The views and opinions expressed on this website are solely those of the author. The views and opinions do not necessarily represent those of the administrative staff, and/or any/all contributors to this site.