Let’s Talk About High Ground Gear 5590 Battery/Accessory /PLRF Pouch
The High Ground Gear 5590 Battery/Accessory /PLRF Pouch is a deceptively simple piece of kit that offers surprising versatility. This pouch, manufactured by High Ground Gear, is designed to accommodate either a 5590/5390 battery or function as a general-purpose accessory pouch, adding webbing for attaching smaller items. It’s a minimalist, yet potentially essential, addition to any tactical loadout.
My team was constantly struggling to efficiently organize and secure bulky 5590 batteries while conducting long-range reconnaissance operations. We needed a dedicated pouch that wasn’t overly bulky and could also double as a storage solution for smaller accessories, eliminating the need for multiple pouches. The promise of a dual-purpose design made the High Ground Gear 5590 Battery/Accessory /PLRF Pouch immediately appealing.
Upon receiving the pouch, I was impressed by its compact size and robust construction. The materials felt durable, and the stitching was clean and reinforced. It was noticeably lighter than some of the bulkier battery pouches we had been using, a welcome change.
We considered the Blue Force Gear Helium Whisper Battery Pouch and the Tactical Tailor Universal Battery Pouch. The High Ground Gear option stood out due to its lower profile and the additional webbing, offering greater flexibility in organizing smaller items. Initial excitement was high; this pouch seemed to address our needs perfectly.
Real-World Testing: Putting High Ground Gear 5590 Battery/Accessory /PLRF Pouch to the Test
First Use Experience
The first field test occurred during a week-long simulated combat scenario focused on night operations. This involved carrying a PLRF (Portable Laser Range Finder) and associated 5590 battery, along with ancillary items like chemlights and spare NODs (Night Observation Device) batteries. The pouch was attached to my plate carrier using MOLLE webbing.
The pouch performed admirably, securely holding the 5590 battery during rigorous movement, including running, crawling, and climbing. Accessing the battery was quick and easy, even while wearing gloves. The ability to attach chemlights to the external webbing proved incredibly useful for marking positions during low-light conditions.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use in various training exercises and operational deployments, the High Ground Gear 5590 Battery/Accessory /PLRF Pouch has proven its durability. There are no signs of significant wear and tear. The stitching remains intact, and the material has shown no signs of fraying or fading.
Maintaining the pouch is straightforward; a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. Compared to some of the more complex pouches we’ve used in the past, this one is remarkably easy to keep clean. It outperforms many bulkier pouches due to its streamlined design.
Breaking Down the Features of High Ground Gear 5590 Battery/Accessory /PLRF Pouch
Specifications
- Purpose: Designed to hold a 5590/5390 battery or serve as a general-purpose accessory pouch. This dual-purpose capability maximizes utility and reduces the need for multiple specialized pouches.
- Construction: Durable materials and reinforced stitching ensure longevity and resistance to wear and tear. This robust construction is essential for withstanding the rigors of field operations.
- Webbing: Features external webbing for attaching chemlights, PEQ (Portable Electronic Qualifier) batteries, NODs batteries, or other small accessories. This external webbing provides convenient and accessible storage for frequently used items.
- Compatibility: MOLLE compatible for easy attachment to vests, packs, and other tactical gear. This compatibility allows for seamless integration into existing loadouts.
Performance & Functionality
The High Ground Gear 5590 Battery/Accessory /PLRF Pouch excels at securely holding its designated cargo, whether it’s a bulky battery or a collection of smaller accessories. Its simple design makes it easy to use and access the contents quickly. While not waterproof, the durable material provides decent protection against light rain and moisture.
The main strength lies in its versatility. The pouch effectively balances size and capacity, allowing for efficient organization without adding unnecessary bulk. One area for potential improvement is the addition of some internal dividers or elastic loops to further organize smaller items when not used for a battery.
Design & Ergonomics
The pouch boasts a low-profile design that minimizes snagging and interference with other gear. The materials are lightweight yet durable, contributing to overall comfort. The MOLLE attachment system is secure and reliable, ensuring the pouch stays firmly in place.
The simplicity of the design contributes to its user-friendliness. There is no learning curve; it’s intuitive and easy to integrate into any tactical setup. The High Ground Gear 5590 Battery/Accessory /PLRF Pouch is a simple, effective solution for carrying essential items.
Durability & Maintenance
Given the high-quality materials and reinforced stitching, this pouch is expected to withstand years of rigorous use. The lack of complex features minimizes potential points of failure. Maintenance is minimal.
Cleaning is simple, requiring only a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris. The durable construction ensures it can handle regular cleaning without compromising its integrity. The High Ground Gear 5590 Battery/Accessory /PLRF Pouch is designed to last.
Accessories and Customization Options
The pouch itself doesn’t come with any included accessories, focusing on its core functionality. Customization options are primarily limited to attaching smaller items to the external webbing. However, the MOLLE compatibility allows it to be used with a wide range of tactical gear and accessories.
Its compatibility with standard MOLLE webbing makes it easy to integrate with pouches from other brands. The ability to add or remove the pouch as needed provides flexibility in tailoring loadouts for specific missions. The High Ground Gear 5590 Battery/Accessory /PLRF Pouch plays well with existing gear.
Pros and Cons of High Ground Gear 5590 Battery/Accessory /PLRF Pouch
Pros
- Versatile Design: Functions effectively as both a 5590 battery pouch and a general-purpose accessory pouch.
- Durable Construction: Built with high-quality materials and reinforced stitching for long-lasting performance.
- Low Profile: Compact design minimizes bulk and interference with other gear.
- MOLLE Compatible: Easily integrates with existing tactical loadouts.
- Affordable: Provides excellent value for the price.
Cons
- Limited Internal Organization: Lacks internal dividers or elastic loops for organizing smaller items.
- Not Waterproof: Offers limited protection against heavy rain or submersion.
Who Should Buy High Ground Gear 5590 Battery/Accessory /PLRF Pouch?
The High Ground Gear 5590 Battery/Accessory /PLRF Pouch is perfect for military personnel, law enforcement officers, and serious outdoor enthusiasts who need a reliable and versatile way to carry 5590 batteries or other essential accessories. Its durable construction and MOLLE compatibility make it ideal for anyone operating in demanding environments. It is also great for airsoft and paintball players looking to add more realism to their kits.
Those who require a completely waterproof pouch or need extensive internal organization may want to consider other options. Individuals prioritizing maximum storage capacity over a streamlined profile may also find this pouch too minimalist.
Must-have accessories include MOLLE-compatible attachment straps and a selection of smaller pouches for organizing the contents when not used for a battery. Some may find value in using small, MOLLE-compatible organizers inside the pouch when used for accessories.
Conclusion on High Ground Gear 5590 Battery/Accessory /PLRF Pouch
The High Ground Gear 5590 Battery/Accessory /PLRF Pouch is a well-designed and highly functional piece of kit that delivers on its promises. Its versatility, durability, and low-profile design make it a valuable addition to any tactical loadout. While it lacks some advanced features like internal organization or waterproofing, its core functionality is excellent.
At $50.79, the price is justified given the quality of construction and the pouch’s versatility. It’s a worthwhile investment for anyone seeking a reliable and adaptable storage solution for batteries or other essential accessories.
I would definitely recommend the High Ground Gear 5590 Battery/Accessory /PLRF Pouch to anyone in need of a durable, versatile, and low-profile pouch. It is a simple yet effective solution that will undoubtedly prove its worth in the field. Gear up, stay organized, and stay prepared.