Let’s Dive into GPS Tactical AR Brass Catcher
The GPS Tactical AR Brass Catcher, brought to you by GPS, promises to be a simple yet effective solution for managing spent brass at the range. At a price point of $13.41, it’s a low-risk investment for any AR-15 owner tired of chasing down their ejected casings. The features—easy hook and loop installation, a large mesh bag, and a convenient bottom zipper for emptying—suggest a practical and user-friendly design that should appeal to a wide range of shooters.
I’ve spent countless hours at the range, and one of my biggest pet peeves is picking up brass, especially when shooting with friends who reload. I needed something inexpensive and easy to use that would minimize the hassle and ensure everyone’s brass gets collected properly. I’m constantly on the lookout for gear that simplifies the shooting experience and makes cleaning up less of a chore.
Upon unboxing, the GPS Tactical AR Brass Catcher feels surprisingly lightweight. The mesh material appears durable enough for its intended purpose, and the hook and loop fastener seems sturdy. Initial impressions suggest a no-frills, utilitarian design—exactly what I was expecting.
Compared to some of the more elaborate brass catchers on the market, like those with rigid frames or complex mounting systems, the GPS Tactical AR Brass Catcher seemed like a less cumbersome, more straightforward solution. I considered a couple of the Caldwell brass catchers which have a more rigid frame, but ultimately chose this one for the lower profile, easier storage and lower cost. I chose this based on its simplicity and promise of easy deployment and storage. My first impression was cautiously optimistic; its simplicity was appealing, and I was eager to see how well it would perform.
Real-World Testing: Putting GPS Tactical AR Brass Catcher to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the GPS Tactical AR Brass Catcher at my local outdoor range, during a practice session with my AR-15. The weather was dry, with a slight breeze, typical conditions for shooting in my area.
Installation was a breeze, just as advertised: the hook and loop wrap secured easily around the forearm of my rifle. The mesh bag held a surprisingly large number of spent casings; I fired around 100 rounds and the bag was only about half full. There were no issues with the bag interfering with the operation of the rifle or the ejection of brass.
The biggest surprise was how well it stayed in place, even with rapid firing. There was a very minor amount of “blow back” of brass escaping, but it was minimal.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several range trips spanning a couple of months, the GPS Tactical AR Brass Catcher is still holding up well. I’ve used it in slightly damp conditions, and the mesh material dries quickly, preventing any mildew issues.
There are no significant signs of wear and tear; the stitching is holding strong and the hook and loop still provides a secure hold. Cleaning is simple: I just shake out any debris and occasionally wipe it down with a damp cloth.
Compared to my previous method of simply letting the brass fly, the GPS Tactical AR Brass Catcher is a major improvement. It’s far more convenient than chasing after brass, and it saves time and effort during cleanup.
Breaking Down the Features of GPS Tactical AR Brass Catcher
Specifications
The GPS Tactical AR Brass Catcher is designed specifically for AR-15 style rifles. It features a black mesh bag made from a brass-colored fabric (though the description incorrectly lists the material as brass) that is intended to withstand the impact of ejected brass.
The catcher utilizes a hook and loop system for attachment. The bottom of the bag is equipped with a zipper for easy emptying of collected brass. These specs contribute to its simplicity, ease of use, and portability.
Performance & Functionality
The GPS Tactical AR Brass Catcher performs its primary function—catching spent brass—effectively. It significantly reduces the time and effort required to collect brass at the range.
Its main strength is its simplicity and ease of use, but its weakness is that it may not be suitable for all AR-15 configurations, particularly those with very short forearms. Overall, it meets my expectations for a budget-friendly brass catching solution.
Design & Ergonomics
The design is straightforward and utilitarian. The GPS Tactical AR Brass Catcher is lightweight and doesn’t add noticeable weight to the rifle.
There is no real learning curve; it’s simple to install and use. Its simple construction makes it easy to store when not in use.
Durability & Maintenance
The GPS Tactical AR Brass Catcher is reasonably durable for its intended purpose. The mesh material seems resistant to tearing and the hook and loop is holding up well.
Maintenance is minimal: shaking out debris and occasional cleaning with a damp cloth is all that’s required. Proper maintenance will ensure its longevity.
Accessories and Customization Options
The GPS Tactical AR Brass Catcher is a standalone product and doesn’t come with any additional accessories. There are no specific customization options, as its design is quite basic.
However, it is compatible with most standard AR-15 configurations, though users with very short forearms might need to find alternative mounting solutions. It’s designed to work as-is, without the need for any extra modifications.
Pros and Cons of GPS Tactical AR Brass Catcher
Pros
- Inexpensive: The GPS Tactical AR Brass Catcher is very affordable.
- Easy to install: The hook and loop system makes it incredibly easy to attach and detach.
- Lightweight and compact: It doesn’t add noticeable weight or bulk to the rifle, making it easy to store and transport.
- Effective at catching brass: It significantly reduces the need to chase after spent casings.
- Simple to clean: Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional shaking out or wiping down.
Cons
- May not fit all AR-15 configurations: Could be problematic on AR pistols or SBRs.
- Durability Concerns: Long-term durability of the mesh and stitching is uncertain with heavy use.
Who Should Buy GPS Tactical AR Brass Catcher?
Perfect for: AR-15 owners who shoot regularly at ranges where brass collection is required or desired. It’s particularly well-suited for casual shooters and reloaders who want a simple, inexpensive solution.
Who should skip this product? Those with highly customized AR-15s with limited space on the forearm, or those seeking a more heavy-duty, permanent brass catching solution.
Must-have accessories or modifications? None; it’s designed to be used as-is.
Conclusion on GPS Tactical AR Brass Catcher
The GPS Tactical AR Brass Catcher is a simple, affordable, and effective solution for managing spent brass at the range. Its ease of use and lightweight design make it a convenient addition to any AR-15 owner’s range gear.
At $13.41, the price is definitely justified. It offers a significant improvement over manually collecting brass, saving time and effort.
I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a budget-friendly brass catching solution. It’s a no-frills product that does exactly what it’s supposed to do, making it a worthwhile investment for any AR-15 shooter. Grab yours today and make your range days a little less messy.