Let’s Dive into Condor Outdoor VAS Kangaroo Mag Panel
The Condor Outdoor VAS Kangaroo Mag Panel is a modular, hook-and-loop attachment designed to increase the ammunition carrying capacity of plate carriers and armor systems. Manufactured by Condor Outdoor, this panel offers a simple, cost-effective way to add three AR/M4 magazines and three pistol magazines to your kit. It’s a no-nonsense, practical solution for those needing extra firepower.
I was looking for a way to streamline my kit and carry more magazines without adding excessive bulk or needing to invest in a completely new chest rig. The Condor Outdoor VAS Kangaroo Mag Panel seemed like a potentially ideal solution, promising increased ammo capacity with a minimal footprint. It also touted compatibility with the Condor Vanquish Armor System.
Upon unboxing, the panel felt solid and well-constructed, particularly for its price point. The stitching appeared robust, and the hook-and-loop backing seemed adequately strong. It isn’t luxurious, but the materials inspire confidence that it’ll hold up for a good while.
I considered other magazine carriers, like individual MOLLE pouches or dedicated chest rigs from brands like Haley Strategic Partners or Spiritus Systems. These offered more modularity and higher-end materials, but they also came with a significantly higher price tag. The Condor Outdoor VAS Kangaroo Mag Panel offered a balance of functionality and affordability that swayed my decision.
My first impression was positive; this appeared to be a practical and well-made product that could potentially solve my magazine-carrying needs without breaking the bank. I was eager to put it through its paces and see how it performed in a real-world setting.
Real-World Testing: Putting Condor Outdoor VAS Kangaroo Mag Panel to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at an outdoor shooting range during a tactical carbine course. I attached the Condor Outdoor VAS Kangaroo Mag Panel to my plate carrier, loaded it with AR/M4 and pistol magazines, and ran through various drills involving reloads and movement. The day was dry and sunny, providing ideal conditions for testing.
The Condor Outdoor VAS Kangaroo Mag Panel performed reasonably well during the initial range session. Magazine retention was adequate, though reloads were not as smooth or fast as with dedicated open-top magazine pouches. No magazines fell out during drills.
One immediate issue was the slightly loose fit of the pistol magazine pouches, especially with single-stack magazines. Retention was not ideal.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use during training and recreational shooting, the Condor Outdoor VAS Kangaroo Mag Panel has held up surprisingly well. There are no signs of significant wear and tear. All the stitching remains intact.
The hook-and-loop backing remains secure. The elastic retention straps on the AR/M4 pouches have retained their elasticity adequately, though I anticipate they may stretch out over the long term.
Cleaning is simple. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth removes most dirt and debris. It definitely fulfills the role of a simple, budget-friendly mag carrier.
In comparison to higher-end magazine carriers I’ve used, the Condor Outdoor VAS Kangaroo Mag Panel falls short in terms of speed and modularity. It’s not the fastest or most adaptable solution, but it’s a reliable and affordable option for those on a budget.
Breaking Down the Features of Condor Outdoor VAS Kangaroo Mag Panel
Specifications
The Condor Outdoor VAS Kangaroo Mag Panel is designed to hold three AR/M4 magazines and three pistol magazines. It attaches to compatible plate carriers or armor systems via a hook-and-loop backing and features male buckle ends for attaching to the Condor Vanquish Armor System. It is available in various colors, including Coyote Brown, Black, and Olive Drab.
- Magazine Capacity: The ability to carry three rifle and three pistol magazines provides a significant increase in carrying capacity.
- Attachment Method: The hook-and-loop backing allows for quick and easy attachment to compatible plate carriers and armor systems, offering flexibility in configuration.
- Compatibility: Designed to integrate seamlessly with the Condor Vanquish Armor System, ensuring a secure and reliable fit.
These specifications are crucial because they dictate the panel’s utility and versatility. The magazine capacity determines how much additional ammunition you can carry, while the attachment method dictates how easily you can integrate the panel into your existing kit. The compatibility with the Condor Vanquish Armor System ensures a secure and reliable connection, minimizing the risk of the panel detaching during use.
Performance & Functionality
The Condor Outdoor VAS Kangaroo Mag Panel performs adequately in its intended role. It securely holds magazines and allows for relatively quick reloads, though not as fast as dedicated open-top pouches. It is not ideal for high-speed, competitive shooting, but it is sufficient for most tactical applications.
- Strengths: Affordability, ease of attachment, and increased magazine capacity.
- Weaknesses: Pistol magazine retention could be improved, and reload speed is not as fast as with dedicated open-top pouches.
The panel generally meets expectations for a budget-friendly magazine carrier. It performs its primary function reliably and provides a cost-effective solution for increasing ammunition capacity.
Design & Ergonomics
The Condor Outdoor VAS Kangaroo Mag Panel features a simple and functional design. The materials used are durable and the construction is solid, though not as refined as higher-end products. The weight is reasonable, and the panel does not add excessive bulk to the plate carrier.
The panel is relatively user-friendly, with no significant learning curve. Attaching and detaching the panel is straightforward, and reloading magazines is generally easy, though the pistol magazine pouches could benefit from a tighter fit.
Durability & Maintenance
The Condor Outdoor VAS Kangaroo Mag Panel appears to be reasonably durable and should last for several years with regular use. The materials are resistant to wear and tear, and the stitching is robust.
Maintenance is simple. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and debris.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Condor Outdoor VAS Kangaroo Mag Panel does not come with any specific accessories. However, it is compatible with a wide range of plate carriers and armor systems that accept hook-and-loop attachments.
The panel itself is not highly customizable, but users can modify the AR/M4 magazine pouches by adding bungee retention cords or other aftermarket accessories to improve magazine retention. Its real customization comes from choosing what carrier it attaches to.
Pros and Cons of Condor Outdoor VAS Kangaroo Mag Panel
Pros
- Affordable price point makes it accessible to a wide range of users.
- Increased magazine capacity allows for carrying more ammunition in the field.
- Easy attachment via hook-and-loop backing simplifies integration with existing plate carriers.
- Durable construction ensures reliable performance over time.
- Versatile compatibility with various plate carriers and armor systems.
Cons
- Pistol magazine retention could be improved, especially for single-stack magazines.
- Reload speed is not as fast as with dedicated open-top pouches.
Who Should Buy Condor Outdoor VAS Kangaroo Mag Panel?
The Condor Outdoor VAS Kangaroo Mag Panel is perfect for:
- Airsoft enthusiasts and players looking for an affordable way to carry extra magazines.
- Budget-conscious tactical shooters who need to increase their ammunition capacity without breaking the bank.
- Individuals who already own a Condor Vanquish Armor System or compatible plate carrier and want a simple and effective magazine carrying solution.
This product might not be suitable for:
- Competitive shooters or operators who require the fastest possible reload speeds.
- Individuals who prioritize high-end materials and construction over affordability.
A must-have accessory for this panel is a set of bungee retention cords for the AR/M4 magazine pouches, which can improve magazine retention and prevent magazines from accidentally falling out.
Conclusion on Condor Outdoor VAS Kangaroo Mag Panel
The Condor Outdoor VAS Kangaroo Mag Panel is a solid, budget-friendly option for increasing ammunition carrying capacity. While it may not offer the same level of performance or refinement as higher-end products, it provides a reliable and cost-effective solution for those on a budget.
The price is definitely justified, given the panel’s functionality and durability. It’s a great value for the money and a worthwhile investment for anyone looking to expand their magazine carrying capacity without spending a fortune.
I would personally recommend the Condor Outdoor VAS Kangaroo Mag Panel to airsoft players, casual tactical shooters, and anyone on a budget who needs to carry extra magazines. It’s a simple, practical, and affordable solution that gets the job done. Give it a try – you might be surprised at how much it improves your kit!