G*Outdoors Half Shooting Vest with Back Pouch Rifle Green w/Khaki Trim Mesh Review

First Thoughts on the G*Outdoors Half Shooting Vest with Back Pouch Rifle Green w/Khaki Trim Mesh

The GOutdoors Half Shooting Vest with Back Pouch Rifle Green w/Khaki Trim Mesh promises a lightweight, practical solution for carrying shotgun shells and accessories at the range or in the field. GOutdoors aims to provide a budget-friendly option for shooters needing organized storage without the bulk of a full vest. The mesh back design and adjustable belt immediately suggest comfort and adaptability.

For years, I’ve struggled with overloaded pockets and bulky vests when practicing sporting clays. My typical setup involved stuffing shell boxes into cargo pants pockets, resulting in discomfort and slow reloads. This vest seemed like an affordable answer to that problem.

Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the light weight of the vest. The mesh material felt breathable, and the rifle green color with khaki trim offered a classic, understated look. The stitching appeared adequate for the price point, and the adjustable belt felt reasonably sturdy.

Compared to full-coverage shooting vests I’ve used from Beretta and Browning, the GOutdoors vest is minimalist. It’s also more affordable than the shell pouches offered by 5.11 Tactical. I chose the GOutdoors Half Shooting Vest with Back Pouch Rifle Green w/Khaki Trim Mesh for its balance of storage capacity, breathability, and budget-friendliness.

Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. The price was certainly appealing, but I was keen to see how the construction would hold up after prolonged use. The breathability was very welcome. I looked forward to giving it a try.

Real-World Testing: Putting G*Outdoors Half Shooting Vest with Back Pouch Rifle Green w/Khaki Trim Mesh to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the G*Outdoors Half Shooting Vest with Back Pouch Rifle Green w/Khaki Trim Mesh at my local shooting range during a sporting clays session. The weather was warm and humid, typical for a summer afternoon. I loaded the double divided pouches with four boxes of 12-gauge shells.

The vest distributed the weight of the shells evenly, making it much more comfortable than stuffing them in my pockets. Reaching for shells was significantly easier and faster, which improved my shooting rhythm. I did notice that the mesh back, while breathable, didn’t prevent all sweating.

The only initial issue was the belt buckle, which occasionally loosened slightly after several hours of use. However, tightening it was quick and simple. Overall, the first use was a positive experience that eliminated most of my initial concerns.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, the G*Outdoors Half Shooting Vest with Back Pouch Rifle Green w/Khaki Trim Mesh has held up surprisingly well. I’ve used it at the range at least twice a week and on a couple of dove hunts. There are no signs of tears or significant wear on the mesh or pouches.

The stitching has remained intact, and the color hasn’t faded noticeably. Cleaning is easy; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth removes most dirt and grime. The belt buckle has become slightly more prone to loosening, but it’s still functional.

Compared to more expensive shooting vests I’ve owned, the G*Outdoors Half Shooting Vest with Back Pouch Rifle Green w/Khaki Trim Mesh doesn’t offer the same level of refinement or robust construction. However, it has exceeded my expectations for durability and functionality, especially considering its price point. The convenience it adds far outweighs any minor shortcomings.

Breaking Down the Features of G*Outdoors Half Shooting Vest with Back Pouch Rifle Green w/Khaki Trim Mesh

Specifications

• Double Divided Pouches: Each side of the vest features double divided pouches. These allow the shooter to carry up to four boxes of shotgun shells.

• Cool Mesh Back Design: The vest features a mesh back. This is designed for storing spent hulls, accessories, or even small game.

• Heavy Duty 2″ Adjustable Web Belt: The belt is 2 inches wide. It is adjustable to fit waists from 30″ to 52″.

• Twin D-Rings: There are two D-rings on the back of the vest. These rings are designed for attaching a shooting towel or other accessories.

• Accessory Pocket: The vest includes a special pocket. This is designed for storing shooting accessories.

These specifications offer a clear picture of the vest’s intended use: providing organized, accessible storage for shooting-related items. The mesh back design is important for ventilation, essential for comfort during warm weather shooting sessions. The adjustable belt ensures a secure fit for a wide range of body types.

Performance & Functionality

The G*Outdoors Half Shooting Vest with Back Pouch Rifle Green w/Khaki Trim Mesh performs its primary function – carrying shells – admirably. The divided pouches keep shells organized and prevent them from shifting around. The mesh back is surprisingly useful for storing empty hulls, freeing up pocket space.

The adjustable belt provides a secure and comfortable fit, even when the vest is fully loaded. The D-rings are a handy addition for attaching a towel or ear protection. The accessory pocket is large enough to hold choke tubes, a small cleaning kit, or other small items.

The main weakness is the belt buckle, which can loosen over time. Another minor issue is the lack of padding on the shoulder straps, which can become uncomfortable after hours of shooting. Overall, the vest meets and exceeds expectations for its price.

Design & Ergonomics

The vest’s design is simple and functional. The rifle green color with khaki trim is aesthetically pleasing and blends well in outdoor environments. The mesh back promotes airflow, preventing overheating.

The adjustable belt allows for a customized fit, ensuring comfort and stability. The vest is lightweight and doesn’t restrict movement. It’s relatively easy to put on and take off, even with gloves.

The only significant design flaw is the lack of padding on the shoulder straps. This is a minor inconvenience, but can be addressed with aftermarket strap pads. The mesh back is also vulnerable to snags and tears.

Durability & Maintenance

The G*Outdoors Half Shooting Vest with Back Pouch Rifle Green w/Khaki Trim Mesh is surprisingly durable for its price point. The mesh material is resistant to tearing, and the stitching is generally well-executed. The pouches are reinforced at stress points.

Cleaning is simple; a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. The vest can also be hand-washed with mild soap and water. With proper care, the vest should last for several seasons of regular use.

The most vulnerable areas are the belt buckle and the mesh back. These components may require occasional repair or replacement. However, the overall construction is robust enough to withstand typical shooting activities.

Accessories and Customization Options

The G*Outdoors Half Shooting Vest with Back Pouch Rifle Green w/Khaki Trim Mesh comes with minimal accessories. Its primary accessory is itself!

Customization options are limited, but users can add aftermarket shoulder strap pads for added comfort. Some shooters may choose to attach MOLLE-compatible pouches to the D-rings for additional storage. The belt buckle could be replaced with a more robust model.

The vest is not designed to be highly customizable, but its simplicity allows for some degree of personalization. The main focus is on providing a functional and affordable solution for carrying shells and accessories.

Pros and Cons of G*Outdoors Half Shooting Vest with Back Pouch Rifle Green w/Khaki Trim Mesh