First Thoughts on the RED ROCK GHILLIE SUIT WOODLAND
The RED ROCK GHILLIE SUIT WOODLAND promises to be an effective tool for concealment in woodland environments, a vital aspect for hunters, wildlife photographers, and airsoft enthusiasts alike. Red Rock Outdoor Gear isn’t necessarily known for high-end tactical apparel, but they often provide affordable entry-level options for those getting started or on a tight budget. This ghillie suit, in its XL/XXL size, caught my eye because of its price point.
As an experienced outdoorsman, concealment has always been a priority. I’ve used everything from natural foliage to high-end custom-made ghillie suits costing hundreds of dollars. My goal here is to assess whether the RED ROCK GHILLIE SUIT WOODLAND offers adequate camouflage performance without breaking the bank.
Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the sheer volume of jute strands. It seemed like quite a bit for the price. The material felt a bit rough to the touch, a characteristic common in budget-friendly ghillie suits. Compared to a higher-end ghillie suit utilizing lightweight, breathable fabric, this one felt noticeably heavier and less pliable. I opted for this over another budget suit because the RED ROCK GHILLIE SUIT WOODLAND came as a 5-piece set. Many competitors only offer a jacket and pants, leaving the head and weapon exposed. My initial excitement was tempered by the slightly bulky feel, but the potential for complete coverage was definitely promising.
Real-World Testing: Putting RED ROCK GHILLIE SUIT WOODLAND to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial test took place during a turkey hunting trip in early spring. I wanted to evaluate the suit’s effectiveness in a mixed woodland environment with budding foliage and plenty of dead leaves. The RED ROCK GHILLIE SUIT WOODLAND was deployed in a stationary position, overlooking a small clearing frequented by turkeys.
The suit performed surprisingly well in breaking up my outline against the surrounding vegetation. Despite a light drizzle, the jute strands didn’t seem to absorb too much water, maintaining a reasonable weight. However, the suit’s breathability was definitely an issue. Even in relatively cool weather, I found myself sweating profusely underneath. This suit is definitely not designed for high activity.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of sporadic use during scouting trips and airsoft games, some concerns emerged. The jute strands began to shed noticeably, particularly around areas of high friction, like the elbows and knees. I’ve already had to repair some spots with additional jute.
The suit’s durability is questionable in the long run. Snagging on thorns and branches caused further shedding and some minor tears in the underlying fabric. Cleaning proved challenging; attempting to wash it resulted in even more jute loss, making spot cleaning the only viable option. Compared to my previous experiences with higher-quality ghillie suits that are machine washable and more resistant to wear, the RED ROCK GHILLIE SUIT WOODLAND falls short in terms of longevity and ease of care.
Breaking Down the Features of RED ROCK GHILLIE SUIT WOODLAND
Specifications
The RED ROCK GHILLIE SUIT WOODLAND is a 5-piece adult XL/XXL ghillie suit designed for concealment in woodland environments. It includes a jacket, pants, a hood, a rifle wrap, and a storage bag. The suit is constructed primarily of synthetic jute strands attached to a lightweight mesh base.
- Size: Adult XL/XXL, designed to fit a range of body sizes. This ensures a comfortable fit for most users, but may require adjustments for smaller individuals.
- Components: Includes jacket, pants, hood, rifle wrap, and storage bag. The full set provides complete camouflage coverage, essential for effective concealment.
- Material: Synthetic jute strands attached to a mesh base. The synthetic material is intended to be lightweight and water-resistant.
- Coloration: Woodland camouflage pattern designed to blend into wooded environments. The pattern offers effective concealment in areas with trees, shrubs, and foliage.
Performance & Functionality
The RED ROCK GHILLIE SUIT WOODLAND performs adequately in breaking up the wearer’s outline in woodland environments. The sheer volume of jute strands creates a visually disruptive effect, making it harder to detect movement. However, the suit’s breathability is poor, and the shedding of jute strands detracts from its overall performance.
Its strengths lie in its affordability and complete coverage. The weaknesses are its durability, breathability, and shedding. It meets basic expectations for a budget-friendly ghillie suit but falls short of higher-end options.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is acceptable for the price point, but the materials feel somewhat cheap and the construction is not particularly robust. The suit’s weight is manageable, but the lack of breathability makes it uncomfortable to wear for extended periods. The design is functional but lacks ergonomic considerations.
The suit is relatively user-friendly, with simple closures and adjustments. However, the bulky nature of the jute strands can restrict movement to some degree. There is a minor learning curve to effectively blend into one’s environment.
Durability & Maintenance
The durability of the RED ROCK GHILLIE SUIT WOODLAND is a significant concern. The shedding of jute strands is a recurring issue, and the underlying mesh is prone to tearing. With careful use and regular repairs, the suit could last for a season or two.
Maintenance is difficult. Washing the suit is not recommended, and spot cleaning is the only practical option. This can be challenging after prolonged use in muddy or dusty environments.
Accessories and Customization Options
The suit comes with a rifle wrap, which is a useful addition for camouflaging a weapon. There are limited customization options available.
Users could potentially add more jute strands or foliage to further enhance the suit’s camouflage capabilities. The suit is not specifically designed to be compatible with accessories from other brands.
Pros and Cons of RED ROCK GHILLIE SUIT WOODLAND
Pros
- Affordable price point makes it accessible to beginners and budget-conscious users.
- Complete 5-piece set provides full-body concealment.
- Effective woodland camouflage pattern for blending into wooded environments.
- Provides a decent amount of jute for visual breakup.
- Includes a rifle wrap for weapon concealment.
Cons
- Durability is questionable, with significant shedding of jute strands.
- Breathability is poor, making it uncomfortable to wear in warm weather.
- Difficult to clean and maintain.
Who Should Buy RED ROCK GHILLIE SUIT WOODLAND?
The RED ROCK GHILLIE SUIT WOODLAND is perfect for beginners who are new to concealment and need an affordable entry-level option. It is also suitable for airsoft players or casual hunters who require temporary camouflage and are not overly concerned about durability. This ghillie suit will work well for those who intend to use the suit in short bursts.
Those seeking a durable, breathable, and high-performance ghillie suit should skip this product. Competitive shooters, serious hunters, or professionals requiring long-term concealment in harsh environments should invest in a higher-quality alternative. Must-have modifications might include adding additional foliage loops and reinforcing stress points with durable thread.
Conclusion on RED ROCK GHILLIE SUIT WOODLAND
The RED ROCK GHILLIE SUIT WOODLAND is a budget-friendly option that provides basic camouflage capabilities. While it offers complete coverage and a decent woodland pattern, its poor durability and breathability are significant drawbacks. The price is justified for those seeking a temporary and inexpensive solution, but serious users should consider investing in a higher-quality alternative.
I would cautiously recommend it to beginners or those on a tight budget who understand its limitations. If you’re looking for a solid first step into the world of concealment, the RED ROCK GHILLIE SUIT WOODLAND could be it. Just be prepared for some shedding and potential repairs.