RTS Tactical Advanced Elbow Pads Gen II Review

First Impressions of RTS Tactical Advanced Elbow Pads Gen II

In the world of tactical gear, elbow pads often seem like an afterthought, relegated to the bottom of the priority list. But for those of us who spend significant time in demanding environments – whether it’s crawling through the brush during a hunt, navigating urban obstacles during training, or simply needing reliable protection on the job – quality elbow protection is essential. The RTS Tactical Advanced Elbow Pads Gen II, from RTS Tactical, aim to provide that protection with a focus on durability, comfort, and affordability.

As someone with over a decade of experience in the outdoor and tactical gear realm, I’ve seen my fair share of elbow pads. My primary need was for something low-profile yet robust, offering protection without hindering movement during dynamic shooting drills and extended periods of wear while instructing at the range.

Upon unboxing the RTS Tactical Advanced Elbow Pads Gen II, my initial impression was positive. The 600D nylon shell felt rugged, and the molded polyurethane cap seemed dense enough to absorb impacts. They felt lightweight. I was also impressed by the seemingly well-thought-out strap system.

I considered other pads, such as the AltaFLEX AltaLok and the Hatch XTAK, both popular options with solid reputations. However, the RTS Tactical Advanced Elbow Pads Gen II won me over due to its appealing price point and the promise of a streamlined design suitable for various tactical applications. I was cautiously optimistic, hoping these pads would strike the right balance between protection and practicality.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism. I was hoping that these would be a great and inexpensive alternative to the usual elbow pads.

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Real-World Testing: Putting RTS Tactical Advanced Elbow Pads Gen II to the Test

First Use Experience

My first opportunity to test the RTS Tactical Advanced Elbow Pads Gen II came during a weekend-long tactical shooting course. The course involved a significant amount of kneeling, crawling, and transitioning between various shooting positions on rough terrain. I was eager to see how they performed in a demanding, real-world scenario.

The weather conditions were mixed, with periods of light rain and dry, dusty patches. Throughout the day, the pads stayed securely in place, thanks to the hook & loop elastic straps. The pads provided a decent level of protection against impacts from rocks and other obstacles. I did find that in wet conditions, the nylon shell retained moisture, making the pads slightly heavier and less comfortable over time.

Initially, the pads felt slightly stiff, but they quickly conformed to the shape of my elbows after a few minutes of movement. There was no need to adjust. After a few hours of use, I began to notice some minor discomfort around the edges of the pads. This issue was solved by adjusting the straps, but it was a point to keep in mind.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use in a variety of environments, the RTS Tactical Advanced Elbow Pads Gen II have held up reasonably well. I have worn them during multiple range sessions, force-on-force scenarios, and even on a few hunting trips where crawling through dense underbrush was necessary. The pads have become a trusted part of my gear.

The durability has proven adequate, although some wear and tear is evident. The 600D nylon shell has shown some minor abrasions and scuff marks, particularly in areas that come into frequent contact with the ground. The polyurethane cap remains intact and shows no signs of cracking or delamination.

Maintaining the RTS Tactical Advanced Elbow Pads Gen II is straightforward. I typically wipe them down with a damp cloth after each use to remove dirt and debris. For more thorough cleaning, I’ve occasionally hand-washed them with mild soap and water, allowing them to air dry completely. Overall, I would say that I would need to replace these after one year of moderate to heavy usage.

Compared to other elbow pads I’ve used in the past, such as the Arc’teryx LEAF Assault Knee Caps (which are significantly more expensive), the RTS Tactical Advanced Elbow Pads Gen II offer a comparable level of protection at a fraction of the cost. They might not be as feature-rich or as comfortable as some higher-end models, but they provide a solid balance of performance and value for the money. I do see the wear and tear is more prevalent on the RTS Tactical Advanced Elbow Pads Gen II.

Breaking Down the Features of RTS Tactical Advanced Elbow Pads Gen II

Specifications

The RTS Tactical Advanced Elbow Pads Gen II are designed for practical protection without unnecessary bulk. The key specifications include:

• Material: The pads feature a 600 denier nylon shell, offering a balance of durability and weight.
• Cap: They have a non-slip, flexible, molded polyurethane cap designed to absorb impacts and provide a stable surface.
• Retention: Hook & loop elastic straps ensure a secure and adjustable fit.
• Contoured Interior: The contoured interior ledge is designed to prevent pad slippage during movement.

These specifications are crucial for several reasons. The 600D nylon provides decent abrasion resistance, important for durability during crawling and kneeling. The polyurethane cap is essential for impact protection. The elastic straps allow the user to customize the fit.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of the RTS Tactical Advanced Elbow Pads Gen II is to protect the elbows from impacts and abrasions, and in this regard, they perform adequately.

• Protection: The polyurethane cap effectively absorbs impacts, reducing the risk of bruising and other injuries.
• Stability: The contoured interior ledge helps keep the pads in place, minimizing slippage during movement.
• Comfort: While not the most comfortable pads I’ve ever worn, they are generally acceptable for extended use, provided the straps are adjusted properly.

However, there are a few areas where improvement is needed. The nylon shell, while durable, can become uncomfortable when wet. The hook & loop straps may wear out over time with repeated use.

Overall, the RTS Tactical Advanced Elbow Pads Gen II meet expectations for basic elbow protection, but they do not exceed them. They get the job done, but there is room for improvement in terms of comfort and moisture management.

Design & Ergonomics

The RTS Tactical Advanced Elbow Pads Gen II feature a no-frills design that prioritizes functionality over aesthetics.

• Build Quality: The materials used are reasonably durable, and the stitching appears to be well-executed.
• Weight: The pads are lightweight. This minimizes fatigue during extended use.
• Comfort: The contoured design and elastic straps contribute to a decent level of comfort.

However, the pads lack some of the ergonomic features found in higher-end models, such as articulated hinges or breathable padding. This design decision is likely a trade-off to keep costs down, but it does impact the overall user experience.

There is a slight learning curve to get the fit just right, but once adjusted, the pads stay in place reasonably well. These aren’t the best looking pads, but they are pretty standard.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my experience, the RTS Tactical Advanced Elbow Pads Gen II are reasonably durable for their price point. They will likely last for at least a year or two of regular use, depending on the intensity of the activities they are subjected to.

Maintaining the pads is simple. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. The pads are easy to clean and do not require any special maintenance procedures.

Accessories and Customization Options

The RTS Tactical Advanced Elbow Pads Gen II do not come with any additional accessories, and there are limited customization options available. I believe they are not modular. I would say there are not customization options.

While the lack of accessories and customization may be a drawback for some users, it is understandable given the pads’ budget-friendly price. The focus is on providing basic, reliable protection without unnecessary frills.

Pros and Cons of RTS Tactical Advanced Elbow Pads Gen II

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Who Should Buy RTS Tactical Advanced Elbow Pads Gen II?

The RTS Tactical Advanced Elbow Pads Gen II are perfect for:

• Tactical Training Participants: Individuals participating in tactical shooting courses or force-on-force training scenarios.
• Airsoft and Paintball Players: Players seeking affordable and reliable elbow protection.
• Security Personnel: Security professionals who require elbow protection for extended periods of duty.
• Hunters: Hunters needing elbow protection while crawling through dense underbrush.
• Budget-Conscious Users: Anyone looking for a cost-effective solution for elbow protection.

Who should skip this product?

• Users Requiring Maximum Comfort: Those who prioritize comfort above all else may want to consider higher-end models with more ergonomic features.
• Users in Consistently Wet Environments: The nylon shell’s tendency to retain moisture may be problematic for users in consistently wet conditions.
• Those needing pads for intense, daily use: These are great pads, but will likely only last for one year or less with consistent, heavy usage.

A must-have modification is using better straps, but this would only increase the price.

Conclusion on RTS Tactical Advanced Elbow Pads Gen II

The RTS Tactical Advanced Elbow Pads Gen II offer a solid balance of protection, durability, and affordability, making them a worthy option for a wide range of users. While they may not be the most comfortable or feature-rich elbow pads on the market, they get the job done without breaking the bank.

The value proposition is strong, as the RTS Tactical Advanced Elbow Pads Gen II provide a decent level of performance at a price that is significantly lower than many competing products. They are a good choice for individuals who need reliable elbow protection without wanting to invest in high-end tactical gear.

Personally, I would recommend the RTS Tactical Advanced Elbow Pads Gen II to anyone looking for an affordable and functional solution for elbow protection. I do not think that they will last forever, but they are inexpensive and do the job.

If you’re in the market for elbow pads that offer decent protection without emptying your wallet, the RTS Tactical Advanced Elbow Pads Gen II are definitely worth considering. Give them a try and experience the peace of mind that comes with knowing your elbows are protected.