First Thoughts on the PELICAN SMALL GEAR WRAP OLIVE
The PELICAN SMALL GEAR WRAP OLIVE is a deceptively simple product from Pelican, a company renowned for its rugged, protective cases. This 16″x16″ drab wrap promises to be a packable solution for organizing and protecting small gear, a niche that often gets overlooked in the tactical and outdoor world. As someone who’s spent years battling tangled cords, scratched lenses, and generally disorganized kit, the promise of a compact organizational tool immediately piqued my interest.
My biggest problem has always been keeping small electronics and sensitive tools protected and accessible in my pack. Ziplock bags are flimsy and offer minimal protection, while dedicated hard cases add significant bulk and weight. I was hoping this wrap could bridge that gap, offering a lightweight, protective solution for items like headlamps, multi-tools, batteries, and first-aid supplies.
Upon unboxing (or rather, unwrapping), I was immediately drawn to the simplicity of the design. The drab olive color is practical and understated, fitting in well with most outdoor and tactical gear setups. The material felt durable and reasonably weather-resistant. It was lighter than I expected, which is a major plus for backpacking and situations where weight is a critical factor. Compared to using a handful of individual padded pouches, the PELICAN SMALL GEAR WRAP OLIVE seemed like a potentially more efficient and space-saving solution. I was cautiously optimistic.
My first impression was one of intrigued practicality. I wasn’t blown away by any flashy features, but the potential for solving a real organizational need was definitely there. Let’s see if it holds up in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting PELICAN SMALL GEAR WRAP OLIVE to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the PELICAN SMALL GEAR WRAP OLIVE was on a weekend fishing trip in the Adirondacks. The changeable weather and relatively rough terrain provided a good initial proving ground. I used the wrap to organize essential items like my headlamp, a small first-aid kit, a spare knife, and some extra batteries. It all packed neatly inside, and I secured the wrap with a small bungee cord to keep it from unfolding in my pack.
The wrap performed admirably in keeping my gear separated and protected from bumps and scratches during the hike in. When a sudden downpour soaked everything, I appreciated the material’s water resistance, which kept the contents mostly dry. Retrieving my headlamp in the dark was quick and easy, a significant improvement over rummaging through the bottom of my pack. However, the wrap wasn’t completely waterproof, and a little moisture did seep in.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, including backpacking trips, range days, and even some vehicle maintenance, the PELICAN SMALL GEAR WRAP OLIVE has proven to be a surprisingly valuable piece of kit. The material has held up well, showing minimal signs of wear and tear. There are no rips or tears, and the stitching remains strong.
Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. I’ve found it particularly useful for organizing and protecting delicate electronics during travel, offering a buffer against bumps and jostles in my camera bag. It has definitely outperformed using simple pouches or plastic bags and offers a more secure solution. The low-profile design keeps it from adding excessive bulk.
Breaking Down the Features of PELICAN SMALL GEAR WRAP OLIVE
Specifications
- The PELICAN SMALL GEAR WRAP OLIVE measures 16″x16″ when open, providing a substantial surface area for organizing various items. This size offers a good balance between capacity and packability.
- Its packable design allows it to be easily folded or rolled for compact storage when not in use. This significantly reduces its footprint in a pack or gear bag.
- The drab olive color provides a low-profile, tactical aesthetic, blending in well with outdoor environments. This is ideal for situations where concealment is important.
Performance & Functionality
The PELICAN SMALL GEAR WRAP OLIVE excels at its core function: organizing and protecting small gear. It is far more effective than simply throwing items into a bag, preventing tangling, scratching, and impact damage. The large surface area allows for efficient arrangement of gear.
A slight weakness is the lack of dedicated pockets or compartments. Gear retention relies solely on the user’s packing skills and perhaps supplemental straps or elastic bands. Despite this, it meets the expectations of a simple, adaptable wrap.
Design & Ergonomics
The PELICAN SMALL GEAR WRAP OLIVE boasts a minimalist design focused on functionality. Its lightweight material adds minimal bulk to a pack. The square shape makes it easy to fold and pack.
There isn’t a significant learning curve; it’s intuitive to use right out of the box. The lack of pockets or compartments may require some thought for optimal organization.
Durability & Maintenance
The material used in the PELICAN SMALL GEAR WRAP OLIVE feels robust and abrasion-resistant. With proper care, it should last for years of regular use.
Maintenance is straightforward. A simple wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime.
Accessories and Customization Options
The PELICAN SMALL GEAR WRAP OLIVE doesn’t come with any specific accessories. Its design encourages user customization. Small bungee cords, Velcro straps, or elastic bands can be used to further secure items within the wrap.
It is compatible with a wide range of aftermarket accessories, making it easy to tailor to specific needs. Many users may choose to add small pouches or organizers inside to further enhance its functionality.
Pros and Cons of PELICAN SMALL GEAR WRAP OLIVE
Pros
- Versatile Organization: Efficiently organizes and protects small gear in one compact package.
- Lightweight & Packable: Adds minimal weight and bulk to a pack or bag.
- Durable Construction: Made from robust materials that can withstand regular use.
- Low-Profile Design: The drab olive color blends seamlessly with tactical and outdoor gear.
- Easy Maintenance: Simple to clean and maintain.
Cons
- Lack of Dedicated Pockets: Requires supplemental straps or elastic bands for optimal gear retention.
- Limited Weather Resistance: Not fully waterproof, so items may get damp in heavy rain.
Who Should Buy PELICAN SMALL GEAR WRAP OLIVE?
The PELICAN SMALL GEAR WRAP OLIVE is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, tactical professionals, and anyone who needs to organize and protect small gear in a compact package. It’s especially useful for backpackers, campers, hikers, and hunters. Individuals who prioritize lightweight gear and efficient organization will find this wrap invaluable.
Those seeking a fully waterproof solution or a gear organizer with dedicated pockets and compartments should skip this product. They might prefer a hard case or a more structured gear bag.
A must-have modification would be the addition of small elastic straps or Velcro bands to secure items within the wrap. This enhances organization and prevents items from shifting during transport.
Conclusion on PELICAN SMALL GEAR WRAP OLIVE
The PELICAN SMALL GEAR WRAP OLIVE is a surprisingly effective and versatile organizational tool. Its simplicity is its strength, offering a lightweight, packable solution for protecting and organizing small gear. While it lacks dedicated pockets and isn’t fully waterproof, its durability, low-profile design, and adaptability make it a worthwhile addition to any outdoor or tactical kit.
Given the likely price point (since it was not provided), it offers excellent value for money. It’s a simple solution that solves a common problem, and I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a lightweight, versatile gear organizer. Give the PELICAN SMALL GEAR WRAP OLIVE a try – you might be surprised at how much it improves your organization in the field.