Let’s Dive into 5.11 Tactical Hard Times 2 Gloves, Black, M, 59379 – 1 out of 10 models
The 5.11 Tactical Hard Times 2 Gloves, Black, M, 59379 – 1 out of 10 models, manufactured by 5.11 Tactical, promise durability and dexterity for tactical applications. At a price point of $60.00, these gloves aim to provide a reliable barrier while maintaining tactile sensitivity. My decade of experience in the tactical gear field has taught me that gloves are often overlooked, yet critical for everything from weapon handling to basic survival tasks.
Gloves are essential for protecting hands from abrasions, impacts, and environmental hazards, and are a critical piece of any kit. I was in the market for a durable, all-purpose glove for range work and field exercises. My previous pair, a cheaper brand, had ripped at the seams after only a few uses.
Upon receiving the 5.11 Tactical Hard Times 2 Gloves, the initial impression was positive. The synthetic leather felt robust, and the nylon spandex seemed like it would allow for good flexibility. They felt lightweight but substantial; I immediately noticed the snug fit.
Compared to similar gloves from Mechanix Wear and Outdoor Research, the 5.11 Tactical offering seemed to prioritize protection slightly more than pure dexterity, whereas the others often feel thin and unsupportive. I was excited to test these gloves for their balance of protection and tactile feel. My initial reaction was one of cautious optimism; time would tell if they lived up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting 5.11 Tactical Hard Times 2 Gloves, Black, M, 59379 – 1 out of 10 models to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the 5.11 Tactical Hard Times 2 Gloves at an outdoor shooting range. The weather was dry and sunny, ideal conditions for assessing grip and dexterity. I spent several hours handling various firearms, from pistols to rifles, and performing reloads.
The gloves performed reasonably well, providing a secure grip on the weapons. However, after about two hours of constant use, my hands started to sweat inside the gloves, leading to some slippage. There wasn’t any initial damage though.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use in different scenarios, the 5.11 Tactical Hard Times 2 Gloves showed some wear and tear. I used them during a weekend hiking trip where they were subjected to abrasion against rocks and branches. Some minor scuffing appeared on the synthetic leather palms.
Cleaning the gloves was relatively easy; a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth removed most of the dirt and grime. However, the sweat odor lingered. Compared to my previous, cheaper gloves, the 5.11 Tactical offering held up much better to abrasion and general wear. However, they did not provide the longevity of higher end leather offerings.
Breaking Down the Features of 5.11 Tactical Hard Times 2 Gloves, Black, M, 59379 – 1 out of 10 models
Specifications
The 5.11 Tactical Hard Times 2 Gloves are constructed from synthetic leather and nylon spandex. This combination is intended to provide both durability and flexibility. The medium size (M) fits a standard hand size, and they are available in black. The 5.11 Tactical description is fairly light on the technical details, but the materials chosen suggest an emphasis on abrasion resistance with some consideration for dexterity.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the gloves’ performance in demanding environments. Synthetic leather offers better resistance to water and abrasion than natural leather, while nylon spandex allows for a snug, flexible fit. Proper fit and durable material are crucial for maintaining dexterity and protecting the hands during tactical operations.
Performance & Functionality
The 5.11 Tactical Hard Times 2 Gloves perform adequately in most tasks. Their main strength is providing a good grip in dry conditions. However, the lack of ventilation makes them less ideal for prolonged use in hot or humid environments.
The biggest weakness is the lack of padding on the knuckles or back of the hand; any significant impact would likely result in injury. They meet basic expectations for protection but don’t exceed them. I would rate their functionality a 6/10.
Design & Ergonomics
The gloves’ design is simple and functional. They are lightweight and comfortable to wear initially. The snug fit does improve dexterity, but the lack of breathability reduces overall comfort during extended use.
The user-friendliness is high, with no real learning curve. Putting them on and taking them off is easy.
Durability & Maintenance
The synthetic leather construction suggests decent durability, but the nylon spandex areas are potential weak points. With proper care, they should last a reasonable amount of time, but heavy use will likely shorten their lifespan. The gloves are easy to clean with a damp cloth and mild soap.
Accessories and Customization Options
The 5.11 Tactical Hard Times 2 Gloves do not come with any specific accessories. There are no customization options beyond choosing the correct size. They are generally compatible with standard tactical gear, such as weapon slings and belt attachments. The lack of dedicated accessory options is a missed opportunity for 5.11 Tactical.
Pros and Cons of 5.11 Tactical Hard Times 2 Gloves, Black, M, 59379 – 1 out of 10 models
Pros
- Good grip in dry conditions: Provides secure handling of firearms and tools.
- Decent abrasion resistance: Synthetic leather holds up well against rough surfaces.
- Lightweight and flexible: Allows for good dexterity and comfortable wear.
- Easy to clean: Simple maintenance routine to keep them in good condition.
- Reasonable price: Offers good value for the level of protection and performance.
Cons
- Poor breathability: Hands tend to sweat during extended use.
- Lack of padding: Offers minimal impact protection.
Who Should Buy 5.11 Tactical Hard Times 2 Gloves, Black, M, 59379 – 1 out of 10 models?
The 5.11 Tactical Hard Times 2 Gloves are perfect for individuals who need a basic, reliable glove for range work, light tactical operations, or general outdoor activities. They are suitable for law enforcement officers, security personnel, or recreational shooters who prioritize grip and abrasion resistance over advanced features like impact protection or touchscreen compatibility.
Those who require gloves for heavy-duty tasks, cold-weather operations, or environments with high risk of impact should skip this product. They are not designed for extreme conditions or specialized applications.
A must-have modification would be to add some kind of breathable liner or moisture-wicking material inside the gloves to improve comfort. An additional accessory would be knuckle padding inserts for enhanced impact protection.
Conclusion on 5.11 Tactical Hard Times 2 Gloves, Black, M, 59379 – 1 out of 10 models
The 5.11 Tactical Hard Times 2 Gloves, Black, M, 59379 – 1 out of 10 models offer a decent balance of durability and dexterity at a reasonable price. While they lack advanced features like impact protection and breathability, they provide a reliable grip and adequate abrasion resistance for general use. The $60.00 price is generally justified for the quality and performance offered.
I would recommend these gloves to anyone looking for an affordable and reliable option for range work or light tactical tasks. They are not the best gloves on the market, but they get the job done. If you need something basic and functional, give them a try. Just be aware of their limitations in hot weather or high-impact environments.