Let’s Talk About Rothco MultiCam MOLLE Compatible Shovel Cover
The Rothco MultiCam MOLLE Compatible Shovel Cover is a purpose-built accessory designed to protect your tri-fold shovel and seamlessly integrate with your MOLLE-equipped gear. Rothco, a name synonymous with rugged, military-inspired equipment, has crafted this cover from durable 1000D Cordura nylon in the ever-popular MultiCam pattern. It promises to be a convenient and reliable solution for anyone needing to carry a shovel without sacrificing valuable pack space or comfort.
For years, I’ve struggled with securely and quietly carrying my E-Tool on various outdoor excursions. Strapping it directly to my pack often resulted in annoying rattling and the blade exposed posed a safety concern. Other improvised solutions were bulky and didn’t integrate well with my existing MOLLE setup, hindering quick access.
Upon receiving the Rothco MultiCam MOLLE Compatible Shovel Cover, I was immediately impressed by its clean design and the familiar feel of Cordura nylon. The weight felt reassuringly solid, suggesting a durable build capable of withstanding harsh conditions. The MultiCam pattern was well-executed, blending seamlessly with my other tactical gear.
I considered a few alternatives, including generic nylon pouches and even some DIY solutions. However, these options lacked the specific fit and MOLLE compatibility that the Rothco MultiCam MOLLE Compatible Shovel Cover offered. Ultimately, the Rothco product seemed like the most practical and purpose-built solution.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. While the materials and construction appeared solid, I was eager to test its real-world performance and see if it lived up to my expectations. Would it truly solve my shovel-carrying woes, or would it be another piece of gear destined for the storage bin?
Real-World Testing: Putting Rothco MultiCam MOLLE Compatible Shovel Cover to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Rothco MultiCam MOLLE Compatible Shovel Cover during a weekend backpacking trip in the Appalachian Mountains. The terrain was rugged, with plenty of dense underbrush and rocky trails, providing a perfect opportunity to assess its performance under challenging conditions. I attached the cover to the back of my pack using the MOLLE straps, ensuring the shovel was easily accessible.
The cover performed admirably in wet conditions. Despite intermittent rain showers, the Cordura nylon repelled water effectively, keeping my shovel dry and preventing rust. The secure buckle closure kept the shovel firmly in place, even during steep ascents and descents.
The cover was surprisingly easy to use. Attaching it to my pack was a breeze thanks to the well-designed MOLLE straps, and the buckle closure was intuitive to operate, even with gloved hands. I found myself quickly appreciating the convenience of having my shovel readily available without having to rummage through my pack.
Initially, the fit was a bit snug, requiring some effort to insert and remove the shovel. However, after a few uses, the fabric seemed to loosen up slightly, making the process smoother. This minor inconvenience was far outweighed by the overall performance and convenience of the cover.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use on various hiking, camping, and range trips, the Rothco MultiCam MOLLE Compatible Shovel Cover has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of significant wear and tear, and the stitching remains intact. The MultiCam pattern has also retained its vibrancy, despite exposure to sun and rain.
The cover has proven to be exceptionally durable. It has shrugged off scrapes against rocks and branches without any noticeable damage. The Cordura nylon is clearly a tough and resilient material, capable of withstanding the rigors of outdoor use.
Maintenance is simple. I occasionally wipe down the cover with a damp cloth to remove dirt and mud, and it looks as good as new. The Cordura nylon is also resistant to stains, making it easy to keep clean.
Compared to my previous methods of carrying a shovel, the Rothco MultiCam MOLLE Compatible Shovel Cover is a significant improvement. It provides a secure, convenient, and weather-resistant solution for transporting my E-Tool, allowing me to focus on the task at hand without worrying about my gear. It has far exceeded my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Rothco MultiCam MOLLE Compatible Shovel Cover
Specifications
The Rothco MultiCam MOLLE Compatible Shovel Cover boasts several key specifications that contribute to its overall performance and utility. It’s constructed from 1000D Cordura Nylon, a highly durable and water-resistant material known for its abrasion resistance. The cover features two MOLLE straps for secure attachment to packs, vests, or other MOLLE-compatible gear.
The cover utilizes a secure buckle closure to keep the shovel in place, preventing it from slipping out during movement. It’s specifically designed to fit tri-fold shovels, providing a snug and secure fit. The MultiCam fabric is licensed through Crye Industries, ensuring authentic camouflage and superior quality.
These specifications are crucial for several reasons. The 1000D Cordura Nylon ensures the cover can withstand the wear and tear of outdoor use. The MOLLE straps allow for versatile attachment options, maximizing convenience and accessibility. The secure buckle closure provides peace of mind, knowing your shovel won’t accidentally fall out. The Crye Industries licensed MultiCam ensures the cover blends seamlessly with other tactical gear.
Performance & Functionality
The Rothco MultiCam MOLLE Compatible Shovel Cover performs its job exceptionally well. It securely holds a tri-fold shovel, protects it from the elements, and allows for convenient attachment to MOLLE-compatible gear. Its reliability and usability are top-notch.
The cover’s strength lies in its simplicity and durability. The Cordura nylon is incredibly tough, and the MOLLE straps are well-stitched and secure. The buckle closure is easy to operate, even with gloves on. A minor weakness is the initially snug fit, which requires some effort to insert and remove the shovel.
The Rothco MultiCam MOLLE Compatible Shovel Cover meets and slightly exceeds my expectations. It’s a well-designed and durable product that effectively solves the problem of carrying a tri-fold shovel. It proves a simple product, done right, can be invaluable in the field.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Rothco MultiCam MOLLE Compatible Shovel Cover is simple yet effective. The cover is made from high-quality materials and feels substantial in hand. The weight is minimal, ensuring it doesn’t add unnecessary bulk to your pack.
The cover is incredibly user-friendly. There’s no learning curve involved – simply insert the shovel, secure the buckle, and attach it to your MOLLE gear. Its straightforward design makes it easy to use in any situation.
Durability & Maintenance
The Rothco MultiCam MOLLE Compatible Shovel Cover is built to last. The 1000D Cordura nylon is incredibly durable, and the stitching is reinforced in high-stress areas. With proper care, this cover should provide years of reliable service.
Maintaining the cover is easy. Simply wipe it down with a damp cloth to remove dirt and mud. The Cordura nylon is stain-resistant and easy to clean, ensuring it stays in good condition.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Rothco MultiCam MOLLE Compatible Shovel Cover does not come with any additional accessories. However, its MOLLE compatibility allows it to be easily integrated with a wide range of other tactical gear.
There are no specific customization options available for this cover. However, users can personalize it by adding patches or other MOLLE-compatible accessories. It is what it is, and it does its job well.
Pros and Cons of Rothco MultiCam MOLLE Compatible Shovel Cover
Pros
- Durable 1000D Cordura Nylon: Ensures long-lasting performance in rugged conditions.
- MOLLE Compatible: Allows for easy and secure attachment to packs, vests, and other gear.
- Secure Buckle Closure: Keeps the shovel firmly in place, preventing accidental slippage.
- Authentic MultiCam Pattern: Blends seamlessly with other tactical gear.
- Simple and Effective Design: Easy to use and maintain.
Cons
- Fit can be initially snug, requiring some effort to insert and remove the shovel.
- Limited customization options.
Who Should Buy Rothco MultiCam MOLLE Compatible Shovel Cover?
The Rothco MultiCam MOLLE Compatible Shovel Cover is perfect for:
- Military personnel.
- Outdoor enthusiasts.
- Survivalists.
- Campers.
- Hikers who want to carry a tri-fold shovel securely and conveniently.
Those who should skip this product:
- Individuals who do not own a tri-fold shovel.
- Users who do not have MOLLE-compatible gear.
- Those seeking a highly customizable shovel carrying solution.
A must-have accessory is a quality tri-fold shovel. Also, MOLLE-compatible backpack or vest is necessary to fully utilize the cover’s capabilities.
Conclusion on Rothco MultiCam MOLLE Compatible Shovel Cover
The Rothco MultiCam MOLLE Compatible Shovel Cover is a well-designed and durable accessory that effectively solves the problem of carrying a tri-fold shovel. Its 1000D Cordura nylon construction, MOLLE compatibility, and secure buckle closure make it a reliable and convenient choice for anyone needing to transport their shovel safely and efficiently. While the fit can be initially snug, this minor inconvenience is far outweighed by the cover’s overall performance and durability.
At $25.99, the price is justified. You’re paying for quality materials and a well-thought-out design that will withstand the rigors of outdoor use.
I would personally recommend the Rothco MultiCam MOLLE Compatible Shovel Cover to anyone in need of a reliable and convenient way to carry their tri-fold shovel. Don’t let an unsecured shovel be a burden on your next adventure, invest in this cover and experience the peace of mind that comes with knowing your gear is safe and secure. Get yours today and be prepared for anything!