Let’s Dive into High Speed Gear HSGI Bungee Replacement Kit
The High Speed Gear HSGI Bungee Replacement Kit is a seemingly small but incredibly vital component in the world of tactical gear. High Speed Gear (HSGI) is renowned for its durable and adaptable load-bearing solutions, and this kit is a testament to their commitment. It provides a simple and effective way to maintain or upgrade the retention capabilities of various pouches, particularly their popular TACO line.
My own need for this kit arose from a combination of factors. After years of hard use, the bungees on my original HSGI TACO pouches had started to lose their elasticity. I needed a reliable replacement option to ensure my magazines remained secure during dynamic movements. I also wanted to explore the possibility of converting some of my older velcro-closure pouches to an open-top, bungee-retention system for faster access.
Upon receiving the kit, I was immediately impressed by the quality of the materials. The bungee cords felt robust and resilient, and the tabs appeared to be made from a durable, well-stitched material. The kit is available in a wide variety of color combinations to match your gear.
Compared to simply buying generic bungee cord and trying to fabricate my own replacement system, this kit offered a pre-packaged, purpose-built solution at a reasonable price. It also offers a clean, professional look compared to DIY solutions. Considering other retention options like kydex inserts, the HSGI Bungee Replacement Kit provides superior adjustability and adaptability to different magazine sizes and shapes.
My initial impression was one of pleasant surprise. I was excited to breathe new life into my existing gear and experiment with different pouch configurations. I felt confident that this kit would deliver the performance and reliability I’ve come to expect from High Speed Gear.
Real-World Testing: Putting High Speed Gear HSGI Bungee Replacement Kit to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the High Speed Gear HSGI Bungee Replacement Kit was at an outdoor shooting range. I used the kit to replace the worn-out bungees on my rifle magazine TACOs and to convert a double pistol magazine pouch into a radio pouch. This was to see if it could securely hold a Baofeng UV-5R.
The range conditions were moderately dusty with temperatures in the mid-70s. The installation process was straightforward, requiring only a few minutes per pouch. Once installed, the bungees provided a noticeably improved level of retention. I found that drawing and re-indexing magazines was smooth and efficient.
One minor initial surprise was the slight learning curve in adjusting the bungee tension to achieve the perfect balance between retention and ease of access. However, after a few adjustments, I was able to dial in the ideal setup for my needs.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the High Speed Gear HSGI Bungee Replacement Kit has proven to be remarkably durable and reliable. There are no signs of significant wear and tear on either the bungee cords or the tabs, despite exposure to various weather conditions and demanding training scenarios. I’ve tested it in cold weather, rainy conditions, and even the desert.
Maintenance has been minimal; a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove any dirt or debris. Compared to my previous experiences with less robust bungee cords, the HSGI kit has significantly outperformed expectations in terms of longevity and consistent performance.
Breaking Down the Features of High Speed Gear HSGI Bungee Replacement Kit
Specifications
- The High Speed Gear HSGI Bungee Replacement Kit is available in several color combinations, including black/black, coyote brown/coyote brown, khaki/khaki, MultiCam /khaki, khaki/olive drab, olive drab/khaki, and olive drab/olive drab. This offers flexibility in matching your existing gear and personal preferences.
- The kit includes six bungee cords and six tabs. This provides enough materials to repair or modify multiple pouches.
- The kit weighs only 0.12 lb. This makes it a lightweight addition to your gear setup.
- The kit is manufactured in the USA by High Speed Gear. This ensures high quality and adherence to strict manufacturing standards.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the kit’s versatility, durability, and overall value. The color options allow for seamless integration with a variety of tactical setups. The number of included components ensures that you have enough material to address multiple pouches. The low weight minimizes any added burden on your load-bearing system. And the Made in USA designation provides assurance of quality and craftsmanship.
Performance & Functionality
The High Speed Gear HSGI Bungee Replacement Kit excels at its primary function: providing reliable and adjustable retention for various types of pouches. The bungee cords offer a secure hold on magazines, radios, or other equipment, preventing them from accidentally dislodging during movement. The adjustable tension allows users to fine-tune the retention level to their specific needs and preferences.
One strength of the kit is its versatility; it can be used to repair existing bungee retention systems or to convert other types of pouches to an open-top, bungee-retention configuration. A potential weakness is that the installation process, while generally straightforward, may require some minor adjustments and experimentation to achieve the optimal tension. Overall, the kit meets and exceeds expectations in terms of performance and functionality.
Design & Ergonomics
The High Speed Gear HSGI Bungee Replacement Kit is designed with simplicity and functionality in mind. The materials used are high-quality and durable, ensuring long-lasting performance. The bungee cords are robust and resilient.
The tabs are well-stitched and provide a secure anchor point for the bungee cords. The kit is relatively easy to install, although some users may benefit from watching instructional videos or consulting online resources. There is a slight learning curve involved in achieving the perfect bungee tension, but once dialed in, the system is very user-friendly.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience, the High Speed Gear HSGI Bungee Replacement Kit is built to last. The materials are resistant to wear and tear, and the construction is solid and reliable.
With proper care and maintenance, the kit should provide years of reliable service. Maintenance is simple; regular cleaning with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove any dirt or debris. The bungee cords may eventually lose some elasticity over time, but replacement is easy and inexpensive.
Accessories and Customization Options
The High Speed Gear HSGI Bungee Replacement Kit does not come with any additional accessories beyond the bungee cords and tabs themselves. However, it is highly compatible with a wide range of pouches from High Speed Gear and other manufacturers. The kit can be used to customize the retention system of various types of pouches, including magazine pouches, radio pouches, and utility pouches.
The bungee cords can be easily adjusted or replaced to accommodate different sizes and shapes of equipment. The tabs can be attached to different locations on the pouch to achieve the desired retention level. The modularity and adaptability of the kit make it a valuable addition to any tactical gear setup.
Pros and Cons of High Speed Gear HSGI Bungee Replacement Kit
Pros
- Affordable and cost-effective: Provides a budget-friendly way to repair or upgrade existing gear.
- Durable and reliable: Made from high-quality materials that can withstand demanding use.
- Versatile and adaptable: Compatible with a wide range of pouches and equipment.
- Easy to install and maintain: Requires minimal effort to set up and keep in good working order.
- Made in the USA: Ensures high quality and supports American manufacturing.
Cons
- Requires some initial adjustment to achieve optimal bungee tension.
- Bungee cords may eventually lose some elasticity over time.
Who Should Buy High Speed Gear HSGI Bungee Replacement Kit?
The High Speed Gear HSGI Bungee Replacement Kit is perfect for: Tactical shooters, law enforcement officers, military personnel, and anyone who relies on their gear in demanding environments. It’s also great for airsoft enthusiasts, hunters, and outdoor adventurers who need a reliable way to secure their equipment.
Those who should skip this product: Individuals who prefer fixed retention systems like kydex inserts, or those who do not own any compatible pouches.
Must-have accessories or modifications: None are strictly necessary, but consider purchasing extra HSGI TACO pouches to fully utilize the kit’s customization potential.
Conclusion on High Speed Gear HSGI Bungee Replacement Kit
The High Speed Gear HSGI Bungee Replacement Kit is a simple yet essential accessory for anyone who uses tactical gear. It provides a cost-effective and reliable way to maintain or upgrade the retention capabilities of various pouches.
The price of $12.00 is more than justified by the quality of the materials, the versatility of the kit, and the peace of mind it provides.
I would personally recommend this kit to anyone who owns High Speed Gear TACO pouches or other compatible gear. The High Speed Gear HSGI Bungee Replacement Kit is a worthwhile investment that will enhance the performance and longevity of your tactical loadout. Don’t let worn-out bungees compromise your mission; grab a kit today and keep your gear secure and ready for action!