Let’s Dive into BlackHawk A.V.I.A.T.O.R. Glove, Black, 2XL, – 1 out of 5 models
The BlackHawk A.V.I.A.T.O.R. Glove, Black, 2XL, – 1 out of 5 models promises to be a robust and versatile piece of tactical gear, blending flame resistance with touchscreen compatibility. BlackHawk has a solid reputation in the tactical world, and these gloves appear to be designed for professionals and serious enthusiasts alike. The inclusion of Nomex and goatskin leather, combined with the extended gauntlet, suggests a focus on both protection and dexterity. At $54.79, they sit in a competitive price range, demanding a thorough examination to see if they truly deliver on their promises.
My need for a reliable pair of gloves stems from years of outdoor activities and professional tactical training. I needed something that offered flame resistance for range days and potential survival situations, while still allowing me to operate my phone and other touchscreen devices seamlessly.
Upon receiving the BlackHawk A.V.I.A.T.O.R. Glove, Black, 2XL, – 1 out of 5 models, I was immediately struck by the feel of the goatskin. It felt supple yet durable, and the stitching appeared to be of high quality. Picking them up, the weight felt appropriate for a glove intending to balance protection and dexterity.
Compared to my Mechanix Wear M-Pact gloves and my older, less feature-rich flight gloves, the BlackHawk A.V.I.A.T.O.R. Glove, Black, 2XL, – 1 out of 5 models seemed to bridge a critical gap. The M-Pacts offered superb impact protection but lacked flame resistance, while the older flight gloves were neither touchscreen compatible nor as reinforced.
My initial impression was positive. I was eager to put them through their paces and see if they lived up to the BlackHawk name.
Real-World Testing: Putting BlackHawk A.V.I.A.T.O.R. Glove, Black, 2XL, – 1 out of 5 models to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test was at an outdoor shooting range, focusing on pistol and rifle drills. The gloves performed admirably, providing a secure grip and allowing for precise trigger control, even with the larger 2XL size. The temperature was mild, around 70 degrees Fahrenheit, and the gloves proved to be breathable enough to prevent excessive sweating.
I also tested the gloves during a light rain shower. The goatskin retained its grip even when wet, and the Nomex construction seemed to repel water effectively. However, extended exposure would likely saturate the gloves.
The seamless index finger was a noticeable improvement over other gloves I’ve used. It truly eliminated any “catch” on the trigger.
One minor issue arose: the touchscreen compatibility was somewhat inconsistent. It worked flawlessly with my phone’s screen protector removed, but less so with it on.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, including more range time, hiking, and some basic bushcraft activities, the BlackHawk A.V.I.A.T.O.R. Glove, Black, 2XL, – 1 out of 5 models has proven to be quite durable. The goatskin palm shows minimal signs of wear, and the stitching remains intact.
The gloves have been exposed to dirt, mud, and some light abrasion. They clean up easily with a damp cloth and mild soap.
Compared to my previous experiences with other tactical gloves, the BlackHawk A.V.I.A.T.O.R. Glove, Black, 2XL, – 1 out of 5 models has impressed me with its balance of protection, dexterity, and comfort. While not perfect, they represent a significant upgrade over my older gear.
Breaking Down the Features of BlackHawk A.V.I.A.T.O.R. Glove, Black, 2XL, – 1 out of 5 models
Specifications
- Material: The gloves are constructed with Nomex fabric for flash and flame resistance, and durable goatskin leather for the palm. This combination offers a blend of protection and tactile sensitivity.
- Stitching: BlackHawk employs double-stitching in critical areas to enhance the glove’s overall durability and resistance to wear and tear. Reinforcement in high-stress areas ensures longevity.
- Gauntlet: The gloves feature an extended gauntlet design. This provides additional protection for the wrist and lower forearm.
- Index Finger: A seamless index finger design allows for improved trigger control. The “no catch” design is intended to provide uninterrupted weapon manipulation.
- Touchscreen Compatibility: The gloves are advertised as touchscreen compatible. This allows the user to operate devices without removing the gloves.
These specifications are crucial for several reasons. The Nomex construction provides a vital layer of protection against flash fires, a common risk in tactical and outdoor scenarios. The goatskin palm offers excellent grip and dexterity, while the extended gauntlet adds another layer of defense. The seamless index finger is a significant advantage for shooters, and touchscreen compatibility enhances overall usability.
Performance & Functionality
The BlackHawk A.V.I.A.T.O.R. Glove, Black, 2XL, – 1 out of 5 models performs its job admirably, particularly in environments where flame resistance and dexterity are paramount. They provide a secure grip on firearms and tools.
Strengths include the comfortable fit, the seamless index finger, and the effective flame resistance of the Nomex fabric. The touchscreen compatibility could be improved.
The gloves largely meet expectations, offering a solid balance of features and performance at their price point. However, the finicky touchscreen functionality is a slight letdown.
Design & Ergonomics
The gloves are well-designed with a focus on practicality and comfort. The goatskin palm is supple and conforms well to the hand.
The fit is generally true to size, but some users might find the 2XL size a bit snug if they have particularly large hands. There is minimal learning curve, these gloves are ready to go right out of the box.
Durability & Maintenance
The BlackHawk A.V.I.A.T.O.R. Glove, Black, 2XL, – 1 out of 5 models appear to be built to last, thanks to the high-quality materials and reinforced stitching. With proper care, they should withstand years of use.
Cleaning is simple. A damp cloth and mild soap are sufficient for removing dirt and grime.
Accessories and Customization Options
The BlackHawk A.V.I.A.T.O.R. Glove, Black, 2XL, – 1 out of 5 models do not come with any specific accessories. There are no readily apparent customization options.
As gloves, they are designed to be worn as is, providing protection and dexterity without the need for additional attachments. However, their compatibility with various tactical gear and devices enhances their overall versatility.
Pros and Cons of BlackHawk A.V.I.A.T.O.R. Glove, Black, 2XL, – 1 out of 5 models
Pros
- Flame Resistance: The Nomex construction provides crucial protection against flash fires.
- Dexterity: The goatskin palm offers excellent grip and tactile sensitivity.
- Seamless Index Finger: The “no catch” design improves trigger control.
- Extended Gauntlet: Provides added protection for the wrist and lower forearm.
- Comfortable Fit: The gloves are generally comfortable to wear for extended periods.
Cons
- Touchscreen Inconsistency: Touchscreen compatibility can be unreliable, especially with screen protectors.
- Limited Ventilation: In hot weather, the gloves can become somewhat warm.
- Price: At $54.79 they are not the cheapest option on the market.
Who Should Buy BlackHawk A.V.I.A.T.O.R. Glove, Black, 2XL, – 1 out of 5 models?
The BlackHawk A.V.I.A.T.O.R. Glove, Black, 2XL, – 1 out of 5 models are perfect for military personnel, law enforcement officers, shooting enthusiasts, and anyone who requires flame-resistant hand protection with good dexterity. They are well-suited for range use, tactical training, and situations where operating touchscreen devices is necessary.
Those who should skip this product are casual users who only need basic hand protection, or those who prioritize maximum ventilation over flame resistance. Individuals who require consistent and reliable touchscreen functionality regardless of screen protectors might also be better served by other options.
Must-have accessories would include a good quality glove wash and leather conditioner to maintain the goatskin palm.
Conclusion on BlackHawk A.V.I.A.T.O.R. Glove, Black, 2XL, – 1 out of 5 models
The BlackHawk A.V.I.A.T.O.R. Glove, Black, 2XL, – 1 out of 5 models are a solid choice for anyone seeking a balance of flame resistance, dexterity, and comfort in a tactical glove. While the touchscreen compatibility is not perfect, the other features and overall build quality make them a worthwhile investment.
At $54.79, the price is justified considering the materials used and the level of protection offered. They are not the cheapest gloves on the market, but they provide a good value proposition for those who need their specific feature set.
I would personally recommend the BlackHawk A.V.I.A.T.O.R. Glove, Black, 2XL, – 1 out of 5 models to anyone in need of reliable flame-resistant hand protection for tactical or outdoor applications. Give them a try, and experience the BlackHawk difference for yourself!