Blackhawk S.T.R.I.K.E. Speed Clips Review

The Blackhawk S.T.R.I.K.E. Speed Clips Made a Bold First Impression

The world of tactical gear is a constantly evolving landscape. The need for modularity and adaptability is paramount, and Blackhawk has consistently been a key player in providing solutions. When I first saw the Blackhawk S.T.R.I.K.E. Speed Clips, I knew I had to try them out.

I was constantly frustrated with the tedious process of weaving MOLLE straps, especially when needing to quickly reconfigure my loadout for different scenarios. Time is precious, and anything that streamlined the process was worth investigating. My initial impression was one of cautious optimism.

The package contained several sets of clips in varying lengths and colors. The Blackhawk S.T.R.I.K.E. Speed Clips looked simple and functional, constructed from a seemingly durable polymer. I had previously used similar clip systems from Condor and some off-brand options; these felt noticeably more robust.

I chose the Blackhawk S.T.R.I.K.E. Speed Clips because of Blackhawk’s reputation for quality and the specific promise of compatibility with their 3800 series pouches. The other options felt flimsy and didn’t offer the same level of brand assurance. My first impression was excitement mixed with a healthy dose of skepticism – could these really be as fast and reliable as advertised?

Real-World Testing: Putting Blackhawk S.T.R.I.K.E. Speed Clips to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Blackhawk S.T.R.I.K.E. Speed Clips on a weekend training course that involved various tactical scenarios. This included navigating obstacle courses, practicing weapon transitions, and simulating room clearing exercises. The weather was typical for the Pacific Northwest: damp and overcast.

The clips performed admirably, even when wet and muddy. They remained securely fastened to both the MOLLE webbing and the attached pouches. Using the Blackhawk S.T.R.I.K.E. Speed Clips was significantly faster than weaving traditional MOLLE straps.

Initially, I needed a couple of minutes to figure out the optimal angle for attaching the clips, but after that, it became intuitive. There were no major issues, although a few times, I felt like I wasn’t getting a perfect lock, and had to double-check the attachment. This improved with practice.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Blackhawk S.T.R.I.K.E. Speed Clips have proven to be a reliable addition to my gear. There are no signs of significant wear and tear, despite being subjected to rough handling. The polymer material appears to be holding up very well.

Cleaning is simple: a quick rinse with water and a wipe down is all that’s needed. They have outperformed my expectations compared to previous experiences with MOLLE attachment alternatives. I find myself reconfiguring my gear more frequently now, simply because it’s so much easier.

Breaking Down the Features of Blackhawk S.T.R.I.K.E. Speed Clips

Specifications

The Blackhawk S.T.R.I.K.E. Speed Clips are constructed from a high-strength polymer. They are available in multiple lengths (3, 5, 7, and 9 inches) and colors (black, coyote tan, and olive drab). This modularity and color options ensure compatibility with a wide array of tactical gear setups.

These clips are specifically designed for rapid attachment to S.T.R.I.K.E. or MOLLE webbing. They are compatible with all Speed Clip 3800 Series pouches. They can also replace existing MOLLE straps on 3700 and 3900 series pouches, expanding their utility.

Performance & Functionality

The Blackhawk S.T.R.I.K.E. Speed Clips excel in their primary function: providing a fast and secure attachment method. Their reliability is excellent, consistently maintaining a solid connection even under stress. They significantly reduce the time required to reconfigure gear, making them invaluable for dynamic situations.

A minor weakness is that extremely heavy pouches might cause slight flexing in the longer clips, which could raise concern over prolonged use. However, for most standard-sized pouches, they work flawlessly. They definitely meet my expectations, providing a tangible improvement in efficiency and convenience.

Design & Ergonomics

The Blackhawk S.T.R.I.K.E. Speed Clips are designed with simplicity and functionality in mind. The polymer material is lightweight yet durable. The smooth edges prevent snagging on clothing or other gear.

Attaching and detaching the clips is straightforward, requiring minimal effort once the technique is mastered. The design is very user-friendly, even with gloved hands. A slight learning curve exists for achieving optimal attachment, but the benefits are quickly realized.

Durability & Maintenance

The high-strength polymer construction suggests a long lifespan, especially considering the relatively low stress they endure. Minimal maintenance is required; cleaning is as simple as rinsing them with water. The clips are designed for repeated use, and their robust construction inspires confidence in their longevity.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Blackhawk S.T.R.I.K.E. Speed Clips themselves don’t come with specific accessories, but their compatibility is the key. They work seamlessly with all Blackhawk Speed Clip 3800 Series pouches. Their ability to replace standard MOLLE straps on other pouches enhances customization options.

The color options allow for matching the clips to existing gear setups. While not directly customizable, their adaptability with various pouches and MOLLE platforms makes them a versatile accessory in their own right. The lengths are crucial for specific attachments, with the longer lengths providing stability for larger pouches.

Pros and Cons of Blackhawk S.T.R.I.K.E. Speed Clips