Savvy shooting sports retailers know that tactical shooters, duty officers and military personnel are always on the hunt for special-purpose equipment that will make them more efficient on the range and in the field — elevating their game to the next level. And that goes way beyond firepower — firearms, ammo, optics and such — to those taken-for-granted gear items that provide an often-needed edge when it matters most. To attend the highest level of performance possible, tactical wear and boots are custom designed with tactical shooters/duty officers in mind — tailor-made for field efficiency. And having a wide assortment of this gear on hand will assure that your patron warriors leave your store or website fully equipped while you reap the benefits from fully outfitting them. As an example, here are some top-shelf tactical wear items every retailer should have on display front and center.
5.11/T Mid-Boot (pictured)
The 5.11 A/T Mid-Boot features 3D molded TPR toe and heel protection, a welded/mesh upper and a high performance, ASTM slip- and oil-resistant high-traction outsole. The boot’s All Terrain Load Assistance System (A.T.L.A.S.) helps users mitigate the rigors of a heavy load-bearing job (and in no small way, either). The A/T Mid-Boot was developed to function with the users’ “work weight,” so they can work longer with less stress even when they’re loaded down. Other features include an Ortholite footbed, 5.11 A.T.L.A.S technology support plate and Echo foam high rebound/energy return PU and Force Foam lightweight PU impact cushioning. MSRP: $150.
Adaptive Tactical Tac-Hammer Magazine Pouch
simple-design >span class="money">rapid-deployment, convenient storage, triple mag drop-leg storage pouch for Ruger 10/22 magazines — an essential piece of gear for competitive shooting, varmint hunting or plinking at the range. It is comfort designed with integrated quick-release buckles and a rubberized leg strap and securely holds three aftermarket or factory magazines. Made from Cordura nylon, the Tac-Hammer weighs .6 pounds and comes with a black finish. Its dimensions are 3 x 8.6 x 8.55 inches. MSRP: $49.99.
CEP Lightweight Compression Socks
Enjoy unparalleled comfort, lightweight breathability and performance-enhancing graduated compression technology with CEP’s Light Merino Mid-Cut Compression Socks — providing the joints with the stimulation needed to improve stabilization and prevent injury. Paired with strategically placed padding on ankle bones and first metatarsal head to prevent blisters and discomfort, they ensure that users will experience increased endurance and comfort. The socks are a blend of synthetic fibers and merino wool. Precise compression provides comfort, durability and temperature regulation, and a new asymmetric toe box and seamless toe keep users blister-free. MSRP: $22.95.
High Speed Gear Vigil EDC Belt
The Vigil EDC belt from High Speed Gear is designed to function as a gun belt for everyday wear. It’s rigid enough for holsters while being comfortable enough for all-day use. The Vigil EDC belt offers a low-profile magnetic buckle that fits through standard belt loops and is available in a variety of colors and in sizes small through 3XL. It is Berry Compliant, has a hidden adjustment tail for a clean appearance and is made from rugged Cordura fabric and nylon webbing construction, multi-line stitched for stiffness and durability. MSRP: $59.
Irish Setter Pinnacle Boot
The Irish Setter Pinnacle 7-inch non-insulated boot features an ATC outsole with Ground Sensing technology that allows the sole to shape and contour to rocks and uneven surfaces to enhance underfoot stability. TempSens technology helps regulate temperature within the boot to maintain constant foot comfort, and lace-to-toe eyelets and locking ankle hooks help customize a secure fit. The upper provides comfort and performance features such as UltraDry waterproofing, a Cushin Comfort tongue and ScentBan scent control, and a full leather gusset keeps debris out. Armatec technology adds durability and abrasion resistance, and EnerG material underfoot provides comfort and sustained support through an energy-returning core sandwiched between the midsole and outsole. MSRP: $199.99.
Kitanica RSP Tactical Pants
Made in the United States and designed for active duty, Kitanica’s RSP tactical pants are constructed of breathable and durable nylon/cotton ripstop fabric. Utility-built, these tactical pants feature of eight pockets, double layer seat and knees and Cordura Fabric pocket corner reinforcements to prevent knife clip wear. Other features include a right zippered and snapped side cargo pocket assembly with top-mounted Cordura Fabric cell/mag/flashlight sleeve, left side cargo pocket with Velcro closure and top-mounted pen tubes. MSRP: $185; $192/Camo.
Pyramex Venture Gear Drone 2.0 Eyewear
With a stylish half-frame design, Pyramex Venture Gear Drone 2.0 eyewear is a good choice for eye protection at the shooting range. Among their many features, they have dual-injected temples, an adjustable nosepiece, and anti-fog, scratch-resistant polycarbonate lenses that provide 99 percent UVA/B/C protection. Pyramex Done 2.0 eyewear passes Mil-PRF 32432 high-velocity impact standards and come packaged in a Venture Gear Tactical clamshell that includes a microfiber cleaning bag. They are available in black or green frames with gray or clear anti-fog lenses. MSRP: $28.99.
Radians Tactical Safety Eyewear
Range operators and shooters seeking enhanced levels of vision protection can rely on Radians CSB101 tactical eyewear, which meet the ballistic requirements of Mil-PRF-32432 — a U.S. military norm for both prescription and non-prescription glasses and goggles. This safety eyewear provides extra protection that helps bring peace of mind at the range, where risks of eye injuries are often more prevalent. Its lightweight metal frame and rubber nosepiece and temples provide all-day comfort, while its rugged durability offers trustworthy protection needed in range environments and extreme situations. The single lens design provides a large viewing area without obstruction. Available in clear and amber Hard Coat scratch-resistant lenses, these shooting glasses block 99.9 percent of UV rays. MSRP $15.99.
Sentry Gunnar 1082 Operators Belt V2
The Sentry Gunnar Low-Profile Operators Belt V2 is constructed from 1.75-inch high-strength nylon webbing and features the industry-trusted quick release Cobra buckle. Internally it has the “loop” portion of the hook and loop to quickly fasten to an inner belt. Externally, the Low-Profile Operators belt features a MOLLE-style mounting platform made from high-strength laminate and fully sewn onto the belt to safely hold various pouch configurations. Sentry’s 1082 Micro MOLLE Mount System is backward compatible with MOLLE straps, PALS and A.L.I.C.E. clips for any existing pouches. Users can also tighten their rig with Sentry’s Tactical Pouches constructed of laser-cut straps for use in the Variable Mounting Platform. Inner belt not included. MSRP: $129.99.
Vertx Canyon River Flannel Shirt
Whether the Canyon River Flannel shirt is worn for concealed carry or days at the shooting range, users can depend on it for all-day comfort and maximum durability. A drop-back hem maintains belt and back coverage when bending and during strenuous activities, and a pre-shrunk, athletic fit with underarm gussets and angled back yoke provide unrestricted range of motion. Other features include low-profile hem pockets for weights or other small items, faux button-front snap closure that allows for quick breakaway and easy clearing, four hidden mini stash pockets that allow the wearer to pre-load items up to 2 inches long, two chest pockets with mitered flap for easier access, and much more. MSRP: $69.99.
Voormi Access NXT Pullover
For versatility and comfort, nothing beats a lightweight, breathable pullover. The athletic fit Access NXT Pullover is made using the company’s Surface Hardened technology, built with four-way stretch woven wool and finished with a durable water repellent finish (DWR), meaning users will stay warm, dry and comfortable. The Access NXT Pullover is available in PHASE-S concealment patterns — compared to a traditional “surface printed” camo on shiny synthetic fabric, Voormi’s wool-based solution is uniquely colored down to the yarn level and constructed to change the game in low-light concealment. Other features include integrated hidden thumbholes and an external chest pocket with internal headphone port. MSRP: $229.
Zamberlan Brenva Lite Boot
The Brenva Lite leather-free boot is built for extremely lightweight, yet sustainable performance, boasting a bevy of technological advances for the benefit of the ultralight hiker. The Brenva Lite is recommended for use when packing low- to medium-weight loads and is extremely versatile, waterproof and breathable — suitable for a variety of terrain, and under the most diverse climatic conditions. Leather-free microfiber uppers are both highly resistant and lightweight, contributing to Brenva Lite’s clean design, and Elastic synthetic tongues are reinforced on areas of greater wear, allowing the upper to better adapt to the foot while increased breathability and durability. Gore-Tex Performance Comfort membranes provide the utmost waterproof protection, guaranteed for the lifetime of the boot. MSRP: $275.
