Which tactical belt to choose? - comparison

When writing a blog about choosing a tactical belt, we immediately had in mind that all the features listed there will be worth referring to specific examples. The belt structure is not perfectly visible at first glance, and describing the Cobra buckle structure in two sentences is definitely insufficient. Therefore, on the basis of the previous post, we have prepared five belts that will well represent the features we mentioned earlier.

Keeping in mind the aforementioned differentiation in the applications of different types of belts, we will also try to present the context - in what situations and with what equipment a given model will work best. We also took care of diversity in this aspect. Regardless of whether you are looking for a comfortable model to be worn every day, or a wide MOLLE belt adapted to typical tactical applications, you will find something for yourself here.

Helikon UTL Tactical Belt

Starting with the basics - Helikon UTL Tactical Belt. An extremely simple belt, constructed on the basis of a minimalist, frame buckle and using a medium-stiff tape. Made of reinforced polymer, the buckle transfers loads well, and thanks to the patented Easy Blocking System ™ geometry, it allows for easy and trouble-free operation. A nice detail is also noteworthy here - texturing on the lower and upper beam significantly facilitating a comfortable grip when putting on. Also, the way the belt is interlaced significantly reduces its bending, which improves longevity. Unlike most models with a frame buckle, it does not require bending the tape at an angle of 180 degrees, which reduces material fatigue.

However, what stands out the most is the price / quality ratio. The use of nylon tape definitely differs from the discussed price range. Polyester is definitely more common here. The workmanship is also of a high standard. The seams are even, aesthetic and multiplied at critical points. Similarly, the end of the strap - geometry and durable thermal stiffening protect the material well and make it easy to fasten the belt. Therefore, the model will work well as an everyday trouser belt as well as an element of professional equipment. Medium-stiff tape will allow for stable carrying of the holster with a light pistol, multitools and other small accessories. The standard width will make it easy for him to mount a holster with a telescopic baton. For people working in places with magnetic gates, the lack of metal parts can also be useful.

Condor LCS Gun Belt

Now something of a similar standard, but with a much more tactical / sports use. The LCS Gun Belt is a complete platform to be used with accessories mounted in the MOLLE standard. The set includes a belt with an integrated MOLLE cap and a compatible inner belt. It must therefore be admitted that for the price it is a good investment. The integrated design means that we are unlikely to use the belt in its most classic role - the trouser support - but that's not what it was designed for. It is designed to ensure a stable transfer of shooting equipment. We are talking about stability in both aspects, both the waist belt on the body and the pouches on the belt itself. The first is taken care of by the added inner belt, which, in addition to increasing the comfort, also locks the whole thing in place thanks to a thermoplastic insert. The MOLLE system itself, known for years as an extremely stable mounting method, is responsible for the second.

The design of the belt itself has been well thought out in terms of ergonomics. We find here a solid, polymer QD buckle. It allows you to unfasten the belt with one hand and fasten it quickly and easily, even under load. The workmanship itself is also surprising - the aesthetic seams connect the belt with the laser-cut MOLLE overlay in the laminate. This solution allows to significantly reduce the weight of the belt compared to models with classic belt loops. The rigid structure provides good support for the accessories carried on it, and the previously mentioned, detachable inner belt significantly stabilizes the whole during dynamic movement.

Bayonet COMBAT

Moving on to a slightly higher shelf, we will meet the products of the Polish brand Bayonet. The company is known for its extremely strict quality control, and the shooting experience translates into understanding the needs of the recipient and their perfect introduction to the belts produced. The COMBAT model is characterized by high versatility thanks to the use of a medium-rigid tape, and ease of use, which is ensured by the AustriAlpin Cobra buckle. The belt is therefore perfect for the EDC role, being very convenient in general use and easily carrying a holster with a light service pistol, handcuffs or a spare magazine.

The belt impresses with the quality of workmanship and the materials used. Bayonet uses raw materials that have been proven over the years. Pasamon tapes, dedicated to the military and outdoor segment, are characterized by excellent resistance to stretching, tearing and abrasion. We can also find them in Wisport backpacks, which have been synonymous with reliability for years. Arianda Tytan threads used for the production of belts exceed ten times the tensile strength of standard products of this type.

And finally the most important element - AustriAlpin Cobra buckle. A model that is a kind of standard and quality determinant in tactical, safety and rescue belts. The aluminum construction with extraordinary durability and the quick-release system is perfect for carrying weapons and accessories on a belt. The patented design prevents unfastening when loaded, and two convenient buttons make plugging in and out is pure pleasure.

Bayonet THIRDLINE

Another model from a proven manufacturer, this time dedicated to carrying heavier equipment. The stiffened Thirdline belt is perfect for all kinds of multigun competition, where, apart from the pistol, it will easily keep several pouches with magazines or shotgun cartridges in a stable position. It will also be a good solution for typical tactical configurations for professional use. Regardless of the model, Bayonet guarantees the same high standard of workmanship, so the materials mentioned in the previous paragraph also apply to this model.

What distinguishes the belt from the competition is the method of stiffening it. Unlike most constructions available on the market, Thirdline does not have a polymer insert in its structure. Stiffness is obtained here by sewing two tapes, which, unlike the popular laminate, prevents abrasion of the belt. A reinforced ANSI D-Ring Cobra buckle is used at the waist. In addition to twice the tensile strength of the already extremely strong basic version, the buckle has an integrated D-ring that allows you to quickly attach accessories, e.g. gloves on a carabiner.

Neptune Spear Low Profile MOLLE Belt

At the end the toughest player - Neptune Spear Low Profile MOLLE Belt. Like the other products of the manufacturer, it was created for professional use - mainly for the military. Its simple, but extremely durable structure will be perfect not only for heavy loads, but also for resistance to unfavorable environmental conditions. Like Bayonet, Neptune Spear focuses on the highest quality of materials, which translates into the reliability of the final product. Similarly to the above, we find here great Pasamon tapes, AltaFlex Velcro, and Amann Serafil threads are even stronger than the aforementioned Tytan.

Again, we find here a modular construction, this time, however, much more universal and ergonomic than the Condor LCS belt. The MOLLE overlays are divided into sections here. In the case of mounting the holster, we do not need to use an adapter, but attach it directly to the main belt, moving the covers dedicated to the pouches as standard. The inner belt also has a different function here - definitely more useful. It is woven between the belt loops of the trousers - after attaching the main belt to the outside with a sewn-on Velcro, we obtain a perfectly stable structure, perfect for the toughest off-road activities.