KT First Line Suspenders

Originally Posted by spleen

Unless I'm misunderstanding Primus' point, he's wondering if you could include velcro to attach to velcro on the inside of many belts to prevent the keepers (and/or anything else attached to the belt) from moving horizontally along the belt. The Eagle Molle belt includes plastic guides at the 3 points where one would attach suspenders which prevent the suspenders from moving horizontally. And if you already do have a system in place to prevent horizontal movement, can you illustrate how it works a bit more clearly for those of us who are to dumb to see?

One more thing, can you clarify where exactly the elastic works into the system? I can't quite see it myself.

Spleen - for the record, there is no elastic in this setup. I've found that it's not required, but I acknowledge that there are those who prefer the flexibility so I'm working on another design which incorporates mil-spec elastics...I have a prototype, but the materials to start batching these got lost in the mail (go figure).

Viking has seen both models, so I'll let him eloborate. Several people are now using the set pictured here, and I think they'll attest that the elastic really isn't required.

I have no added velcro to the suspender straps because of the adjustable nature of the straps - I would need to put 6-8 inches of hook on each strap to allow the adjustability and that would mean hook sticking out over the tri-glides. The alternative was to create the keepers which contain velcro to secure to a duty belt. The keepers can also be used like law enforcement keepers to secure the duty belt to the pants belt.

I will snap pics of BOTH models side by side tomorrow and post them here. The elastic model costs considerably more to produce (in time and materials) and that cost will of course be transferred to the customer.

Final note is that I'm not equipped to mass-produce these, so I make them by the batch. As the product develops, I incoroporate changes. Once I have a bulletprood product I'll have a production run done. Anyone is of course free to wait until that time.

Ok, I was actually able to get a camera working, so I've attached some shots of the Version 2 suspenders currently under development. You'll note the use of the elastic.

THESE ARE NOT THE VERSION CURRENTLY OFFERED FOR SALE. THE VERSION CURRENTLY OFFERED FOR SALE IS PICTURED IN THE FIRST POST IN THIS THREAD.

[Viking]

Based on what I've seen, as well as conversations with Morb, it really does boil down to preference. Morbius is doing all that he can to accommodate both tastes. I've tried both versions on and I would be satisfied with either version. I have owned a set of HSGI suspenders forever now, and while they've done their job well enough for me, I can say with complete confidence that these models meet those standards, and in some instances, exceed them.

Logically, if you carry a heavy 1st line set up, you might opt for the standard version; keeping this weight off the pelvic girdle is paramount. Alternatively, you may opt for the elastic version if you're running a lighter load and want greater mobility and flexibility around the trunk region, say a pistol and some pistol mags.

Again, it is about preference and preference alone. I'll be testing both models very soon on some upcoming games, and I'll offer as much honest feedback as humanly possible.

Anyone that knows me, knows I purchase gear that will last, and is high-speed / low-drag. These suspenders are no exception to that rule. The only possible exception here is the price. Once others trial this piece of kit, more assessments can be posted here if any doubt remains.

[Blackthorne]

BACKGROUND:

I had the HSGI/Blackhawk suspenders that have the elastic cord loops to provide some shock absorption. I HATED these because the elastic cord was so strong it didn't really stretch or take any of the shock. I also found it hard to adjust them for different weight loads, and the system for locking them into place, while secure, was not something you change quickly in the field.

TEST SETUP: (pics to follow)

I have run this piece of kit in two games and a three gun match so far.

My first line for AS weighs about 10 pounds. My first line for RS weighs about 35 pounds with full mags, pistol spare ammo etc. Add to this the fact that I use a weapons catch, so pile on another 5 pounds for the carbine when I have it stowed on my hip (yes, my AS AR and real AR weight the same !)

I ran the suspender to three points on my first line belt both with the keepers that Morb came up with later and without them.

I too asked for a Velcro section on the keepers that would stop it from moving along the belt. I have found this to be unnecessary, as the keepers fit tightly enough to discourage movement. I have also found that the system stays in place without the keepers as well if adjusted properly.

I prefer the keepers however, as I like to hook my BDU belt into my first line and have everything held up. Nothing worse that droopy drawers when moving across the field, especially after a 24 hour op when you have serious monkey butt. BAD for the teammate behind you!

FIRST IMPRESSIONS:

Solidly built. You can pull and twist a them an there isn't any movement in any of the seams. Stitching is tight and snug without looking like it will pull through.

I really like the wider straps. I have found other suspender systems too thin in this respect and they tend to cut into my shoulders. Wider is also better as I find it has enough friction to stay in place. They also protect my shoulders somewhat from the thinner shoulder strap on my Eagle plate carrier.

The best thing about these suspenders is they are KISS. Three adjustment points, three attachment points. Quality materials and workmanship. THAT'S IT.

No fucking hi sped hooky-whatchamacallits. No radar reflective doohickeys. No NVG hooks, no molle, no pockets blah blah blah. You get the idea. They are fucking suspenders. They do one thing and they do it VERY well.

FINAL REPORT:

I have to run these through some more games. But as of right now I will be paying for the test set (yes, he wanted to give them to me as a tester, dumb eh?) and will be ordering a set in OD for the other first line I am building.

They meet all the needs I have for suspenders, with no compromises.

Good work (again) Mordy.

[ValkXB70]

Just got my set today, and they are worth every penny I spent on them. If you are thinking about getting suspenders, talk to MM. You will not be disappointed.

MM, great job on these.

[redhawk_six]

Originally Posted by ValkXB70

Just got my set today, and they are worth every penny I spent on them. If you are thinking about getting suspenders, talk to MM. You will not be disappointed.

MM, great job on these.

I second that.
Mine arrived today and I love them. They are extremely easy to install on a molle belt and just as easy to adjust. Morbius' suspenders are a great addition to any first line kit.

Thanks for the input guys!