Rothco G.I. Type Alice Keeper Clip-Belt Slides Review

Let’s Talk About Rothco G.I. Type Alice Keeper Clip-Belt Slides

The Rothco G.I. Type Alice Keeper Clip-Belt Slides are a seemingly simple, yet crucial piece of gear that often goes unnoticed until you desperately need them. These unassuming metal clips are designed to replace worn or broken ALICE (All-Purpose Lightweight Individual Carrying Equipment) clips, the backbone of older military load-bearing systems, and surprisingly, offer an affordable alternative for attaching MOLLE (Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment) pouches to belts or packs. For over a decade, I’ve relied on robust gear, and the failure of a small plastic clip in the field can mean the difference between mission success and frustration.

My interest in these clips stemmed from a frustrating experience with flimsy plastic MOLLE attachments that repeatedly failed during a demanding search and rescue training exercise. I needed a more reliable, low-profile solution to secure vital gear to my belt and found that these clips were better than the plastic ones. Upon receiving the Rothco G.I. Type Alice Keeper Clip-Belt Slides, I was immediately struck by their simple, no-nonsense design.

They are small, black, and made of metal – exactly what you’d expect. The weight is negligible, and the build quality appears solid, especially considering the incredibly low price point. Compared to plastic MOLLE clips, these Rothco clips feel significantly more robust and less prone to breakage. Initial impressions were positive; I was excited to test their durability in real-world conditions and ditch the unreliable plastic alternatives.

  1. ## Real-World Testing: Putting Rothco G.I. Type Alice Keeper Clip-Belt Slides to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Rothco G.I. Type Alice Keeper Clip-Belt Slides on a weekend hiking trip in the Appalachian Mountains. The weather was damp, and the terrain varied from rocky trails to muddy inclines, creating a challenging environment for my gear. I used the clips to attach a small first-aid pouch and a multi-tool sheath to my belt. The clips performed admirably; they securely held the pouches in place, even during strenuous climbs and descents.

The ease of use was immediately apparent. They slid onto my belt and through the MOLLE webbing with minimal effort. I didn’t experience any slippage or movement, even when scrambling over rocks. There were no issues after the first use, which was a welcome surprise.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Rothco G.I. Type Alice Keeper Clip-Belt Slides have proven to be remarkably durable. Despite exposure to mud, rain, and frequent abrasion, there are no signs of wear and tear. The black finish has remained intact, and the metal hasn’t shown any signs of rust or corrosion. Maintenance is virtually nonexistent; I simply wipe them clean with a damp cloth as needed.

Compared to my previous experiences with plastic MOLLE clips, the Rothco clips are far superior. The plastic clips would often break after just a few uses, especially in cold weather when the plastic becomes brittle. These Rothco clips outperform plastic options in every aspect of durability and reliability.

  1. ## Breaking Down the Features of Rothco G.I. Type Alice Keeper Clip-Belt Slides

Specifications

The Rothco G.I. Type Alice Keeper Clip-Belt Slides boast a straightforward set of specifications, which is part of their appeal.

  • Manufacturer: Rothco – a well-known name in military and tactical gear.
  • Color: Black – blends well with most tactical gear and belts.
  • Material: Metal – provides significantly greater durability than plastic alternatives.
  • Weather Resistance: All Weather – designed to withstand harsh environmental conditions.

These specifications matter because they directly impact the clip’s ability to reliably secure gear in demanding situations. The metal construction ensures long-lasting performance, while the black finish helps maintain a low profile. The All Weather rating assures users that the clips will function effectively, regardless of the conditions.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of the Rothco G.I. Type Alice Keeper Clip-Belt Slides is to securely attach pouches and accessories to belts or packs, and they excel at this task. The clips provide a tight, reliable hold that prevents gear from shifting or detaching unexpectedly. The simplicity of the design makes them incredibly easy to use.

The clips’ strength is their simplicity and durability; however, they might be slightly less versatile than some more complex MOLLE attachment systems. The clips meet and exceed my expectations for a simple, reliable attachment solution.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Rothco G.I. Type Alice Keeper Clip-Belt Slides is minimalist and functional. The metal construction provides a sense of durability, and the black finish adds to their tactical aesthetic. The weight is negligible, so they don’t add any noticeable bulk to your gear.

There is virtually no learning curve associated with using these clips; they are intuitive and easy to install.

Durability & Maintenance

The metal construction suggests that these clips will last for years, even with regular use in harsh conditions. Maintenance is minimal; simply wipe them clean as needed to remove dirt and debris. Repair is unlikely to be necessary due to the robust design.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Rothco G.I. Type Alice Keeper Clip-Belt Slides don’t come with any accessories, nor do they require any. They are compatible with any MOLLE-compatible pouches or accessories. These clips do not lend themselves to customization beyond maybe painting them.

  1. ## Pros and Cons of Rothco G.I. Type Alice Keeper Clip-Belt Slides

Pros

  • Exceptional Durability: Metal construction far surpasses plastic alternatives.
  • Affordable Price: Inexpensive replacement or upgrade for existing gear.
  • Simple Design: Easy to use and install with minimal learning curve.
  • Secure Attachment: Provides a tight, reliable hold for pouches and accessories.
  • Low Profile: Black finish blends well with tactical gear.

Cons

  • Can rust if left wet for extended periods.
  • Limited Versatility: More basic than some advanced MOLLE attachment systems.


  1. ## Who Should Buy Rothco G.I. Type Alice Keeper Clip-Belt Slides?

These Rothco G.I. Type Alice Keeper Clip-Belt Slides are perfect for:

  • Tactical gear enthusiasts seeking a durable and affordable attachment solution.
  • Outdoor adventurers needing reliable gear for hiking, camping, and backpacking.
  • Preppers and survivalists looking to upgrade their load-bearing equipment.
  • Anyone tired of flimsy plastic MOLLE clips that frequently break.

This product might not be ideal for individuals who require highly specialized or adjustable MOLLE attachment systems. If someone needs quick-release or highly customizable options, other products might be more suitable. A potential must-have modification would be coating them with some anti-corrosion agent to enhance rust prevention.

  1. ## Conclusion on Rothco G.I. Type Alice Keeper Clip-Belt Slides

The Rothco G.I. Type Alice Keeper Clip-Belt Slides are a testament to the fact that simple solutions are often the best. These clips offer exceptional durability, reliability, and ease of use at an incredibly affordable price. The value proposition is undeniable.

I would wholeheartedly recommend these clips to anyone seeking a robust and dependable attachment solution for their tactical or outdoor gear. Ditch the flimsy plastic and upgrade to the Rothco G.I. Type Alice Keeper Clip-Belt Slides – you won’t regret it!

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