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"Tactical" Sub-Load Gun Belt Basics
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<blockquote data-quote="ZeroHour_Outfitters" data-source="post: 2503585" data-attributes="member: 32645"><p><strong>BELT PLACEMENT</strong></p><p>When figuring out the placement of a load bearing belt, there is not really a write or wrong other than ensuring it feels comfortable, does not rub against hips or cause ay irritation, balanced for proper weight distribution, and attached pouches and/or equipment do not poke or rub, causing irritation or discomfort. Below pictures and descriptions (<strong>PIC 3</strong>) provide how to figure out proper placement when wearing the belt as a standalone component, meaning without a Plate Carrier or a Rucksack.</p><p><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-IyG5HfFUKSk/U2mBtH9GTJI/AAAAAAAAABM/thJVZb_ETCs/w430-h261-no/PIC3.jpg" alt="" class="fr-fic fr-dii fr-draggable " style="" /></p><p>When you bend forward there is going to be a natural line where you belly folds (<strong>PIC 4A</strong>), that should be the highest point you should place your belt, meaning you should not wear you belt any higher than that. By doing so, this will ensure mobility when you move, bend, or sit while wearing the belt. Additionally, this will provide the most support, much so like the lumbar support belt. Same can be done when you bend straight down on either side, a natural bend occurs (<strong>PIC 4B</strong>), which should be the highest point you should place the belt.</p><p><img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-7QyfvGD7aJ0/U2mBtqtYVsI/AAAAAAAAABY/NJyO8TiUyGA/w387-h276-no/PIC4.jpg" alt="" class="fr-fic fr-dii fr-draggable " style="" /></p><p></p><p><strong>BELT ADJUSTMENT</strong></p><p>Once you figured out the proper placement of the belt, simply pull on the ends until the belt tightens to a desired level (<strong>PIC 5</strong>); this does not apply to Sub-Load Belts that use a Riggers or Cobra Buckle Belts as a securing method. Prior to storing away the access waist band, it is a good practice to tighten each end additional ¼ inch. This will composite for weight and starching under full load. </p><p><img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-GWsuPv2l3Q4/U2mBuMebHpI/AAAAAAAAACQ/1weWtFpVxmU/w245-h104-no/PIC5.jpg" alt="" class="fr-fic fr-dii fr-draggable " style="" /></p><p></p><p>There are two options for stowing away the excess waist band. </p><p></p><p>First Options: Role-up the excess band until it reaches the buckle. Than secure the excess to the buckle strap. On this model of the Sub-Load Belt, Velcro securing strap are sawn on to the end of waist bands. Other options include rubber band, elastic strap, and for field expedient version Duct Tape. However, Duct Tape is not necessary on this model as this Sub-Load Belt includes an improved buckle, which uses a spring loaded band retention compared to regular models that rely on overall belt tensions for retention. The rolled up excess waist band should not be left loose pass the opening of the belt (<strong>PIC 6A</strong>).</p><p></p><p>Second Option: If a lower profile is desired, the excess band can be tucked away inside the belt. For ease of things you will require a stick, flat head screw driver, or anything that is approximately 10 inches long. Starting from the buckle, align the excess strap to the belt opening (<strong>PIC 6A</strong>). Using the object you selected, push the access inside the belt, forming a simple fold. Once the entire excess band is inside the belt, pull out the stick. By doing it this way, it will ensure that you can easily pull out the waist band by having the end of the waist band located right by the opening of the belt.</p><p><img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-DBHsKnALxvM/U2mBuQWBgrI/AAAAAAAAABc/ntXikizUgfM/w216-h237-no/PIC6.jpg" alt="" class="fr-fic fr-dii fr-draggable " style="" /></p><p></p><p>When it comes to adjusting suspenders, it is best to do it with a friend, as they can observe from a distance to see imperfections in weight distribution and placement. They can also tighten and secure the straps and bands while you hold the gear in place, which comes useful when adjusting the rear straps. However, if you have to adjust the belt suspenders on your own, start with the rear strap first. Once you have the desired placement of your belt and you secured the waist band, loosen the back overlapping suspender straps and let it hang (<strong>PIC 7A</strong>). Then move the securing ring as high as possible on the strap (<strong>PIC 7B</strong>). Then stand in front of a mirror and turn sideways. With one hand reach back and progressively place tension on the strap to the desired location. Once at the desired tension, with the other hand, move the securing ring to the rectangular D ring (<strong>PIC 7C</strong>). If you cannot reach that far back, simply mark the point where the strap meets the rectangular D ring with a piece of Masking or Duct Tape, which will allow you to remove the belt and secure the straps without losing the desired tension point. Once the back is adjusted, follow the same steps to adjust the front. With the front suspenders straps, it is important that they are equally adjusted in length in order to promote proper balance. Just like the waist band, it is good practice to tighten additional ¼ inch to compensate for weight and stretch. Keep in mind you may have to go through this process again after the first time you use the gear under load in order to fine tune your adjustment for maximum comfort and utilization.</p><p><img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-tlUkHmAgQ20/U2mBvIboK7I/AAAAAAAAABo/9JXXQDzXdeU/w185-h289-no/PIC7.jpg" alt="" class="fr-fic fr-dii fr-draggable " style="" /></p><p></p><p><strong>ATTACHMENT OF PALS (MOLLE) COMPONENTS</strong></p><p>The PALS (MOLLE) attachment system can be extremely secure and stable when properly used. To properly attach a pouch/pocket, choose the desired attachment point on the vest panel. Line up the top of the pouch evenly with the top of the nearest horizontal one-inch webbing that goes across the panels. Insert the pouch attachment strap down the 1 inch then behind the 1 inch on the back of the pouch. Continue weaving the attaching strap behind the horizontal webbing on the vest and the webbing on the back of the pouch until the pouch is secured along its entire length (<strong>PIC 8</strong>). </p><p><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ntFCMFNR41o/U2mBvcw0TzI/AAAAAAAAABw/6sWPwF6OFUY/w417-h315-no/PIC8.jpg" alt="" class="fr-fic fr-dii fr-draggable " style="" /></p><p></p><p><strong>TIPS FOR ATTACHING PALS (MOLLE) COMPONENTS TO SUB-LOAD BELT</strong></p><p>Prior to attaching any pouches to your belt, you should first take a moment to consider placement of pouches and/or equipment based on FUNCTIONALITY while maintaining a good WEIGHT BALANCE of the belt. For example, if you are right handed shooter, place the magazine pouches on the left side (non-shooting hand) and your holster on the right side (shooting hand) (<strong>PIC 9</strong>). The weight of the ammunition and pouches on one side will balance with the weight of a pistol and holster on the opposite side, while reducing reloading time. In case the belt is being used to carry sustainment or specialized ammunition, such as 40 mm rounds, then it is best to use it as a bandolier, lining the rounds all the way around. </p><p><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-BWGLmBRjpj0/U2mBwZklrZI/AAAAAAAAAB0/T4itdgOsN38/w522-h159-no/PIC9.jpg" alt="" class="fr-fic fr-dii fr-draggable " style="" /></p><p></p><p>Once you have a general idea where you want to place the pouches and/or equipment for function and weight balance, do a dry run. This is as simply matching the MOLLE/PALS strapping between to components to ensure compatibility. The vertical straps on a pouch should be routed under horizontal traps and the snaps secured (<strong>PIC 10A</strong>); this will give you more accurate idea how the strapping will line-up. Then simply line-up the straps between the two components (<strong>PIC 10B</strong>).</p><p><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-L7kKCtnwbWo/U2mBw0qjOnI/AAAAAAAAACI/oce7gDOOTwQ/w330-h162-no/PIC10.jpg" alt="" class="fr-fic fr-dii fr-draggable " style="" /></p><p></p><p>Sometime, when attaching PALS (MOLLE) components on the new gear, it can be difficult due to the stiff nature of the strapping that has not yet had a tensioned load in order to stretch to tolerable/projected stretch specifications. In this case, using a butter knife or liked item can assist getting creating a gap to start the securing process without causing damage to the strapping and ballistic thread (<strong>PIC 11A</strong>). Do not use a sharp knife or a knife with a serrated edge as you may damage your components. To get started simply insert the knife in to the desired slot, tilt it approximate 45 degrees upwards and insert the vertical strap of the merging component (<strong>PIC 11A</strong>). Due to the securing snaps on the vertical strapping of PALS (MOLLE) components, the snap has a tendency to get caught on the next horizontal strap or unintentionally be routed under a undesired strap (<strong>PIC 11B</strong>). In this instance use the butter knife as guide by simply inserting the knife from the bottom, ensuring you push the knife past the securing snap of the vertical strap (<strong>PIC 11C</strong>).</p><p><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-Co41tlJWRaQ/U2mBxTFiV4I/AAAAAAAAACA/PDHzLvJV5CU/w502-h187-no/PIC11.jpg" alt="" class="fr-fic fr-dii fr-draggable " style="" /></p><p></p><p>As you continue to weave the strapping and get to the last horizontal strap, at times the vertical strap has a tendency to be difficult to pull through in order to snap in the securing strap. In this instance use a multi-tool or needle nose pliers to pull the strap through (<strong>PIC 12A</strong>). When using the pliers to pull the strapping, only grab the strap with the pliers as far left or right possible in order to avoid damaging the securing snap located at the end of the vertical straps and centered in the middle of the strap (<strong>PIC 12B</strong>).</p><p><img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-jLe-TC6Z_XE/U2mByili2XI/AAAAAAAAACU/geK3wNxiMAk/w321-h120-no/PIC12.jpg" alt="" class="fr-fic fr-dii fr-draggable " style="" /></p><p></p><p>Thank you for reading and we hope this was of some use to you. If you would like to see more posts like this from us please let us know on here or our Facebook Page, where we often post various gear descriptions.</p><p></p><p>ZHO</p><p><a href="http://www.facebook.com/zerohouroutfitters" target="_blank">www.facebook.com/zerohouroutfitters</a></p></blockquote><p></p>
[QUOTE="ZeroHour_Outfitters, post: 2503585, member: 32645"] [B]BELT PLACEMENT[/B] When figuring out the placement of a load bearing belt, there is not really a write or wrong other than ensuring it feels comfortable, does not rub against hips or cause ay irritation, balanced for proper weight distribution, and attached pouches and/or equipment do not poke or rub, causing irritation or discomfort. Below pictures and descriptions ([B]PIC 3[/B]) provide how to figure out proper placement when wearing the belt as a standalone component, meaning without a Plate Carrier or a Rucksack. [IMG]https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-IyG5HfFUKSk/U2mBtH9GTJI/AAAAAAAAABM/thJVZb_ETCs/w430-h261-no/PIC3.jpg[/IMG] When you bend forward there is going to be a natural line where you belly folds ([B]PIC 4A[/B]), that should be the highest point you should place your belt, meaning you should not wear you belt any higher than that. By doing so, this will ensure mobility when you move, bend, or sit while wearing the belt. Additionally, this will provide the most support, much so like the lumbar support belt. Same can be done when you bend straight down on either side, a natural bend occurs ([B]PIC 4B[/B]), which should be the highest point you should place the belt. [IMG]https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-7QyfvGD7aJ0/U2mBtqtYVsI/AAAAAAAAABY/NJyO8TiUyGA/w387-h276-no/PIC4.jpg[/IMG] [B]BELT ADJUSTMENT[/B] Once you figured out the proper placement of the belt, simply pull on the ends until the belt tightens to a desired level ([B]PIC 5[/B]); this does not apply to Sub-Load Belts that use a Riggers or Cobra Buckle Belts as a securing method. Prior to storing away the access waist band, it is a good practice to tighten each end additional ¼ inch. This will composite for weight and starching under full load. [IMG]https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-GWsuPv2l3Q4/U2mBuMebHpI/AAAAAAAAACQ/1weWtFpVxmU/w245-h104-no/PIC5.jpg[/IMG] There are two options for stowing away the excess waist band. First Options: Role-up the excess band until it reaches the buckle. Than secure the excess to the buckle strap. On this model of the Sub-Load Belt, Velcro securing strap are sawn on to the end of waist bands. Other options include rubber band, elastic strap, and for field expedient version Duct Tape. However, Duct Tape is not necessary on this model as this Sub-Load Belt includes an improved buckle, which uses a spring loaded band retention compared to regular models that rely on overall belt tensions for retention. The rolled up excess waist band should not be left loose pass the opening of the belt ([B]PIC 6A[/B]). Second Option: If a lower profile is desired, the excess band can be tucked away inside the belt. For ease of things you will require a stick, flat head screw driver, or anything that is approximately 10 inches long. Starting from the buckle, align the excess strap to the belt opening ([B]PIC 6A[/B]). Using the object you selected, push the access inside the belt, forming a simple fold. Once the entire excess band is inside the belt, pull out the stick. By doing it this way, it will ensure that you can easily pull out the waist band by having the end of the waist band located right by the opening of the belt. [IMG]https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-DBHsKnALxvM/U2mBuQWBgrI/AAAAAAAAABc/ntXikizUgfM/w216-h237-no/PIC6.jpg[/IMG] When it comes to adjusting suspenders, it is best to do it with a friend, as they can observe from a distance to see imperfections in weight distribution and placement. They can also tighten and secure the straps and bands while you hold the gear in place, which comes useful when adjusting the rear straps. However, if you have to adjust the belt suspenders on your own, start with the rear strap first. Once you have the desired placement of your belt and you secured the waist band, loosen the back overlapping suspender straps and let it hang ([B]PIC 7A[/B]). Then move the securing ring as high as possible on the strap ([B]PIC 7B[/B]). Then stand in front of a mirror and turn sideways. With one hand reach back and progressively place tension on the strap to the desired location. Once at the desired tension, with the other hand, move the securing ring to the rectangular D ring ([B]PIC 7C[/B]). If you cannot reach that far back, simply mark the point where the strap meets the rectangular D ring with a piece of Masking or Duct Tape, which will allow you to remove the belt and secure the straps without losing the desired tension point. Once the back is adjusted, follow the same steps to adjust the front. With the front suspenders straps, it is important that they are equally adjusted in length in order to promote proper balance. Just like the waist band, it is good practice to tighten additional ¼ inch to compensate for weight and stretch. Keep in mind you may have to go through this process again after the first time you use the gear under load in order to fine tune your adjustment for maximum comfort and utilization. [IMG]https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-tlUkHmAgQ20/U2mBvIboK7I/AAAAAAAAABo/9JXXQDzXdeU/w185-h289-no/PIC7.jpg[/IMG] [B]ATTACHMENT OF PALS (MOLLE) COMPONENTS[/B] The PALS (MOLLE) attachment system can be extremely secure and stable when properly used. To properly attach a pouch/pocket, choose the desired attachment point on the vest panel. Line up the top of the pouch evenly with the top of the nearest horizontal one-inch webbing that goes across the panels. Insert the pouch attachment strap down the 1 inch then behind the 1 inch on the back of the pouch. Continue weaving the attaching strap behind the horizontal webbing on the vest and the webbing on the back of the pouch until the pouch is secured along its entire length ([B]PIC 8[/B]). [IMG]https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ntFCMFNR41o/U2mBvcw0TzI/AAAAAAAAABw/6sWPwF6OFUY/w417-h315-no/PIC8.jpg[/IMG] [B]TIPS FOR ATTACHING PALS (MOLLE) COMPONENTS TO SUB-LOAD BELT[/B] Prior to attaching any pouches to your belt, you should first take a moment to consider placement of pouches and/or equipment based on FUNCTIONALITY while maintaining a good WEIGHT BALANCE of the belt. For example, if you are right handed shooter, place the magazine pouches on the left side (non-shooting hand) and your holster on the right side (shooting hand) ([B]PIC 9[/B]). The weight of the ammunition and pouches on one side will balance with the weight of a pistol and holster on the opposite side, while reducing reloading time. In case the belt is being used to carry sustainment or specialized ammunition, such as 40 mm rounds, then it is best to use it as a bandolier, lining the rounds all the way around. [IMG]https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-BWGLmBRjpj0/U2mBwZklrZI/AAAAAAAAAB0/T4itdgOsN38/w522-h159-no/PIC9.jpg[/IMG] Once you have a general idea where you want to place the pouches and/or equipment for function and weight balance, do a dry run. This is as simply matching the MOLLE/PALS strapping between to components to ensure compatibility. The vertical straps on a pouch should be routed under horizontal traps and the snaps secured ([B]PIC 10A[/B]); this will give you more accurate idea how the strapping will line-up. Then simply line-up the straps between the two components ([B]PIC 10B[/B]). [IMG]https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-L7kKCtnwbWo/U2mBw0qjOnI/AAAAAAAAACI/oce7gDOOTwQ/w330-h162-no/PIC10.jpg[/IMG] Sometime, when attaching PALS (MOLLE) components on the new gear, it can be difficult due to the stiff nature of the strapping that has not yet had a tensioned load in order to stretch to tolerable/projected stretch specifications. In this case, using a butter knife or liked item can assist getting creating a gap to start the securing process without causing damage to the strapping and ballistic thread ([B]PIC 11A[/B]). Do not use a sharp knife or a knife with a serrated edge as you may damage your components. To get started simply insert the knife in to the desired slot, tilt it approximate 45 degrees upwards and insert the vertical strap of the merging component ([B]PIC 11A[/B]). Due to the securing snaps on the vertical strapping of PALS (MOLLE) components, the snap has a tendency to get caught on the next horizontal strap or unintentionally be routed under a undesired strap ([B]PIC 11B[/B]). In this instance use the butter knife as guide by simply inserting the knife from the bottom, ensuring you push the knife past the securing snap of the vertical strap ([B]PIC 11C[/B]). [IMG]https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-Co41tlJWRaQ/U2mBxTFiV4I/AAAAAAAAACA/PDHzLvJV5CU/w502-h187-no/PIC11.jpg[/IMG] As you continue to weave the strapping and get to the last horizontal strap, at times the vertical strap has a tendency to be difficult to pull through in order to snap in the securing strap. In this instance use a multi-tool or needle nose pliers to pull the strap through ([B]PIC 12A[/B]). When using the pliers to pull the strapping, only grab the strap with the pliers as far left or right possible in order to avoid damaging the securing snap located at the end of the vertical straps and centered in the middle of the strap ([B]PIC 12B[/B]). [IMG]https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-jLe-TC6Z_XE/U2mByili2XI/AAAAAAAAACU/geK3wNxiMAk/w321-h120-no/PIC12.jpg[/IMG] Thank you for reading and we hope this was of some use to you. If you would like to see more posts like this from us please let us know on here or our Facebook Page, where we often post various gear descriptions. ZHO [URL="http://www.facebook.com/zerohouroutfitters"]www.facebook.com/zerohouroutfitters[/URL] [/QUOTE]
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