First Impressions of 5.11 Tactical Competition Shooting Gloves 2.0 – Men’s
The 5.11 Tactical Competition Shooting Gloves 2.0 – Men’s aim to offer the perfect blend of dexterity, protection, and comfort for serious shooters. Designed by 5.11 Tactical, a brand known for equipping law enforcement and military professionals, these gloves promise enhanced grip and trigger control without sacrificing durability. These gloves are purpose-built for competition, duty, and recreational shooting, claiming to offer a tactile feel while shielding hands from the elements and firearm handling stress.
As a seasoned outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve encountered countless shooting gloves, often finding them either too bulky or too flimsy. I was seeking a pair of gloves that could provide a secure grip and protection against slide bite during rapid shooting drills without sacrificing the ability to manipulate small objects like magazines or pistol controls. After reading product specifications and customer reviews, the 5.11 Tactical Competition Shooting Gloves 2.0 – Men’s appeared to strike a balance between these crucial qualities, promising a snug fit and enhanced tactility.
Upon unboxing, my initial impression was favorable: the gloves felt lightweight yet substantial, with a noticeable emphasis on articulation and breathability. The materials felt flexible but durable, suggesting they would hold up well under rigorous use. Compared to Mechanix Wear Original gloves, a common benchmark for general-purpose shooting gloves, the 5.11 Tactical Competition Shooting Gloves 2.0 – Men’s seemed to offer more targeted reinforcement in critical areas like the palm and fingertips, while the Hatch NS4300 Operator gloves, known for their heavier construction, felt too bulky for precision shooting. I chose the 5.11 Tactical Competition Shooting Gloves 2.0 – Men’s because their design appeared to prioritize dexterity without compromising protection, a critical requirement for competitive shooting.
I was cautiously optimistic; previous experiences with shooting gloves often resulted in either compromised dexterity or rapid wear. The 5.11 Tactical Competition Shooting Gloves 2.0 – Men’s had the potential to become my go-to shooting gloves, but the real test would be in their performance under field conditions.
Real-World Testing: Putting 5.11 Tactical Competition Shooting Gloves 2.0 – Men’s to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the 5.11 Tactical Competition Shooting Gloves 2.0 – Men’s was at an outdoor shooting range during a full-day pistol competition. I put them through various drills, including rapid target acquisition, reloads, and malfunction clearances, all while varying distances and target sizes. The weather conditions were moderately warm and dry, with a slight breeze, providing a typical shooting environment.
The gloves performed admirably; the enhanced grip allowed for confident weapon handling, even during rapid-fire sequences. I experienced no slippage or discomfort, even with prolonged use. The gloves’ tactile sensitivity allowed me to easily manipulate magazines and pistol controls, showcasing their dexterity. After first use, I noticed some minor wear on the fingertips but nothing beyond what was expected for a day of intense shooting.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, including multiple range sessions and a weekend-long tactical training course, the 5.11 Tactical Competition Shooting Gloves 2.0 – Men’s continued to impress. The gloves exhibited excellent durability, with only minor wear and tear visible on the palm and fingertips. The stitching remained intact, and the materials retained their shape and flexibility.
Maintaining the gloves was relatively easy; I simply hand-washed them with mild soap and water and allowed them to air dry. Compared to some of my previous experiences with other brands that quickly wore out or lost their shape, the 5.11 Tactical Competition Shooting Gloves 2.0 – Men’s demonstrated exceptional longevity and consistent performance. These gloves outperform most similar options, offering a superior blend of dexterity, durability, and comfort.
Breaking Down the Features of 5.11 Tactical Competition Shooting Gloves 2.0 – Men’s
Specifications
The 5.11 Tactical Competition Shooting Gloves 2.0 – Men’s are designed with the competitive shooter in mind. They feature a form-fitting design crafted for enhanced dexterity and weapon control. The materials include a blend of nylon, spandex, and synthetic leather, balancing durability with flexibility.
The gloves are available in various sizes, including the 2XL model that I tested, and come in black, suitable for tactical and range environments. Reinforced palms and fingers provide abrasion resistance, while breathable materials ensure comfort during extended use. The design prioritizes tactile sensitivity, allowing for precise trigger control and manipulation of firearms and equipment.
Performance & Functionality
The 5.11 Tactical Competition Shooting Gloves 2.0 – Men’s excel in providing enhanced weapon control and tactile sensitivity. The grip reinforcement in the palms ensures a firm hold, even in sweaty or wet conditions. The thin, form-fitting design allows for precise trigger control and manipulation of small objects, such as magazines and weapon controls.
The gloves are remarkably comfortable and breathable, even during prolonged use in warm weather. The only minor drawback is that the touchscreen compatibility is limited; it works intermittently, and precision is not guaranteed. Overall, the 5.11 Tactical Competition Shooting Gloves 2.0 – Men’s meet and often exceed expectations, providing a reliable and comfortable shooting experience.
Design & Ergonomics
The 5.11 Tactical Competition Shooting Gloves 2.0 – Men’s feature a streamlined design that prioritizes comfort and functionality. The materials used are lightweight and breathable, preventing excessive sweating and discomfort during extended use. The form-fitting design ensures a snug and secure fit, allowing for maximum dexterity and weapon control.
The gloves are designed to be user-friendly, with no significant learning curve; they are easy to put on and take off. The articulated fingers allow for a natural range of motion, preventing hand fatigue during prolonged shooting sessions. The gloves are incredibly comfortable and ergonomic, making them ideal for competitive shooting and tactical applications.
Durability & Maintenance
The 5.11 Tactical Competition Shooting Gloves 2.0 – Men’s are constructed from durable materials that can withstand the rigors of competitive shooting and tactical training. The reinforced palms and fingers provide abrasion resistance, preventing premature wear and tear. The stitching is robust and well-executed, ensuring the gloves hold up well under stress.
Maintaining the gloves is simple; hand-washing with mild soap and water is sufficient to keep them clean and in good condition. With proper care, these gloves should last for an extended period, making them a worthwhile investment.
Accessories and Customization Options
The 5.11 Tactical Competition Shooting Gloves 2.0 – Men’s are primarily designed as standalone gloves and do not come with specific accessories. While there are no direct customization options, their compatibility with various firearms and tactical gear makes them versatile. The gloves work seamlessly with different holster systems and weapon platforms.
Due to their standard design, they are compatible with common tactical accessories like weapon lights and laser aiming devices. The thin profile allows for comfortable use with most shooting platforms, ensuring they fit well with existing gear.
Pros and Cons of 5.11 Tactical Competition Shooting Gloves 2.0 – Men’s
Pros
- Exceptional dexterity for weapon handling and manipulation of small controls.
- Reinforced palms and fingers provide excellent grip and abrasion resistance.
- Lightweight and breathable materials ensure comfort during extended use.
- Durable construction withstands the rigors of competitive shooting and tactical training.
- Snug, form-fitting design provides a secure and comfortable fit.
Cons
- Touchscreen compatibility is limited and unreliable.
- The price point might be slightly high for budget-conscious buyers.
Who Should Buy 5.11 Tactical Competition Shooting Gloves 2.0 – Men’s?
The 5.11 Tactical Competition Shooting Gloves 2.0 – Men’s are perfect for competitive shooters, law enforcement officers, and tactical training enthusiasts who demand superior dexterity and weapon control. These gloves are also ideal for individuals who prioritize comfort and breathability during prolonged use. Anyone needing protection against slide bite or wanting to enhance their grip will benefit significantly.
Those looking for heavy-duty, all-weather gloves might find these lacking in insulation or full environmental protection. Casual shooters who only occasionally visit the range may not require this level of performance and could opt for more affordable alternatives. A must-have accessory is a gentle hand soap for cleaning, ensuring the longevity of the gloves.
Conclusion on 5.11 Tactical Competition Shooting Gloves 2.0 – Men’s
In summary, the 5.11 Tactical Competition Shooting Gloves 2.0 – Men’s are an excellent investment for serious shooters who demand superior dexterity, comfort, and durability. These gloves provide a significant enhancement to weapon control and handling, making them a valuable addition to any shooter’s gear. The gloves’ value proposition is justified by their high-quality construction and performance benefits.
I would personally recommend the 5.11 Tactical Competition Shooting Gloves 2.0 – Men’s to anyone seeking to elevate their shooting experience. If you’re ready to take your shooting performance to the next level, these gloves are a game-changer. Equip yourself with the 5.11 Tactical Competition Shooting Gloves 2.0 – Men’s and experience the difference firsthand.