Let’s Talk About Rothco Concealed Carry Soft Shell Anorak – Men’s
The Rothco Concealed Carry Soft Shell Anorak – Men’s is a tactical garment designed for individuals who prioritize preparedness and need a versatile outer layer that integrates concealed carry capabilities. Rothco, a name synonymous with military surplus and tactical gear, aims to deliver functionality and value with this anorak. This jacket boasts a soft shell construction, fleece lining, and multiple access points for concealed carry, promising both weather protection and tactical utility.
My need for this jacket stemmed from a desire to have a discreet and comfortable way to carry while hiking and camping. I wanted something that offered both weather protection and easy access to my firearm without screaming “tactical.” After a frustrating experience with uncomfortable IWB holsters during a previous trip, I decided to search for a better solution.
My initial impression upon receiving the Rothco Concealed Carry Soft Shell Anorak – Men’s was positive. The soft shell material felt substantial, and the fleece lining promised warmth. The design seemed practical, with ample pockets and a large hood, however, the initial fit was slightly larger than expected for a “Perfect” fit as stated by manufacturer specs.
I considered other options like the Condor Summit Soft Shell Jacket and the 5.11 Tactical Sabre 2.0 Jacket. Ultimately, I chose the Rothco Concealed Carry Soft Shell Anorak – Men’s due to its anorak design and seemingly more discreet appearance, along with the lower price point. I was hoping for a blend of practicality and inconspicuousness.
I was cautiously optimistic about the Rothco Concealed Carry Soft Shell Anorak – Men’s. The price point made me wonder about long-term durability, but the initial features seemed promising.
Real-World Testing: Putting Rothco Concealed Carry Soft Shell Anorak – Men’s to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Rothco Concealed Carry Soft Shell Anorak – Men’s during a weekend range trip followed by an early spring hike in the local mountains. The range offered a controlled environment to assess the accessibility of the concealed carry features. The hike provided a chance to evaluate its performance in varying weather conditions.
The jacket performed well in the cool, breezy conditions of the range and mountain trails. The soft shell material deflected wind effectively, and the fleece lining provided sufficient warmth without being overly bulky. Access to my holstered firearm through the side zippers proved surprisingly quick and easy.
The learning curve was minimal. The zipper placements for concealed carry access were intuitive, and the overall design was easy to get used to. The kangaroo pocket proved useful for storing extra magazines and other small items.
The initial fit was a bit looser than anticipated, even with adjustments at the cuffs. This made drawing from concealment slightly less streamlined than desired, and the additional room meant that the jacket occasionally caught on my gear.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Rothco Concealed Carry Soft Shell Anorak – Men’s has proven to be a reliable, though not flawless, outer layer. It has seen action during multiple range trips, hikes, and even as an everyday jacket during cooler weather.
The jacket shows some signs of wear, particularly around the cuffs and kangaroo pocket edges. However, there are no major tears or damage to the main material. The zippers, including those for concealed carry access, continue to function smoothly.
Maintenance is relatively simple. The jacket is machine washable, and I’ve found that a gentle cycle and air drying works best to maintain its shape and water repellency. I appreciate the ease of cleaning, especially after muddy hikes.
My previous experiences with similar soft shell jackets from other brands (like Condor and 5.11) lead me to rate the Rothco Concealed Carry Soft Shell Anorak – Men’s slightly lower in terms of overall durability. However, for its price point, it performs admirably.
Breaking Down the Features of Rothco Concealed Carry Soft Shell Anorak – Men’s
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Rothco. Known for producing affordable tactical and outdoor gear.
- Apparel Fit: Perfect (according to Rothco, but runs slightly large in my experience).
- Gender: Male. Designed with a men’s cut and sizing.
- Age Group: Adults. Intended for adult users.
- Sleeve Length: Long. Provides full arm coverage for warmth and protection.
- Color: Black. Offers a low-profile and tactical appearance.
- Fabric/Material: 100% Polyester. Known for its water resistance and breathability.
- Lining Material: Fleece. Offers added warmth and comfort.
- Concealed Zipper Under Kangaroo Pocket: Provides access to a waist holster.
- Additional Side Zippers: Allows for alternate access to a waist holster.
- Front Zippered Pocket: Provides secure storage for essential gear.
- Lower Kangaroo Pocket: Keeps hands warm and offers additional storage.
- Waterproof and Breathable Polyester: Protects from the elements while allowing moisture to escape.
- Fleece Lined: Enhances warmth during colder temperatures.
- Drawstring Hood: Offers adjustable protection from wind and rain.
- Mandarin Style Collar: Provides neck coverage and a tactical appearance.
- Storm Flap: Prevents wind and rain from entering through the main zipper.
- Hook & Loop Adjustable Cuffs: Allows for a customizable fit around the wrists.
These specifications are essential for the Rothco Concealed Carry Soft Shell Anorak – Men’s because they dictate its functionality in various environments. The polyester construction provides a degree of water resistance for light rain, while the fleece lining adds warmth for cooler temperatures. The concealed carry access points, adjustable features, and ample pockets enhance its practicality for tactical use.
Performance & Functionality
The Rothco Concealed Carry Soft Shell Anorak – Men’s functions well as a lightweight, weather-resistant outer layer with concealed carry capabilities. It offers decent protection from wind and light rain, and the fleece lining provides adequate warmth for moderately cold conditions. Access to a concealed firearm is relatively easy and intuitive.
The main strength of the Rothco Concealed Carry Soft Shell Anorak – Men’s lies in its affordability and functional design. The concealed carry access points are well-placed, and the kangaroo pocket is spacious and useful. The main weakness is the slightly loose fit, which can hinder drawing from concealment and create a bulkier profile.
The jacket mostly meets my expectations for its price point. It’s not a high-end tactical jacket, but it provides a decent balance of functionality, comfort, and affordability.
Design & Ergonomics
The Rothco Concealed Carry Soft Shell Anorak – Men’s features a practical design with a focus on functionality. The anorak style, large hood, and multiple pockets contribute to its overall utility.
The build quality is decent for the price, but not exceptional. The materials are adequate, and the stitching is generally well-done, but some areas, like the pocket edges, could benefit from reinforcement. The jacket is comfortable to wear, thanks to the fleece lining, but the slightly loose fit can feel bulky at times.
There’s a minimal learning curve associated with using the Rothco Concealed Carry Soft Shell Anorak – Men’s. The zipper placements for concealed carry access are intuitive, and the overall design is straightforward.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the Rothco Concealed Carry Soft Shell Anorak – Men’s should last for a few years of moderate use. The 100% polyester material is relatively durable, but it’s not as abrasion-resistant as more expensive fabrics.
Maintenance is easy. The jacket is machine washable and can be air-dried. I recommend using a gentle detergent to preserve the water repellency of the polyester shell.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Rothco Concealed Carry Soft Shell Anorak – Men’s does not come with any specific accessories. However, it is compatible with most standard waist holsters, allowing users to customize their concealed carry setup.
There are no specific customization options offered by Rothco for this anorak. However, users can potentially add patches or modify the pockets to suit their needs.
Pros and Cons of Rothco Concealed Carry Soft Shell Anorak – Men’s
Pros
- Affordable Price Point: Excellent value for the features offered.
- Functional Concealed Carry Access: Well-placed zippers for easy access to a holstered firearm.
- Warm Fleece Lining: Provides adequate warmth for cooler temperatures.
- Wind and Water Resistant: Offers decent protection from the elements.
- Spacious Kangaroo Pocket: Provides ample storage for essential gear.
Cons
- Slightly Loose Fit: Can hinder drawing from concealment and create a bulkier profile.
- Durability Could Be Better: Materials and construction are decent, but not exceptional.
- Limited Color Options: Only available in black, which may not suit all users.
Who Should Buy Rothco Concealed Carry Soft Shell Anorak – Men’s?
The Rothco Concealed Carry Soft Shell Anorak – Men’s is perfect for budget-conscious individuals seeking a functional and discreet concealed carry option. It’s also well-suited for casual hikers, campers, and outdoor enthusiasts who need a lightweight, weather-resistant outer layer. Law Enforcement and Security personnel may also find this a good alternative for off-duty carry.
This product should be skipped by individuals who require a high-end tactical jacket with exceptional durability and a tailored fit. Those who prioritize maximum concealment and streamlined access to their firearm may also find the fit too loose.
A quality waist holster is a must-have accessory for the Rothco Concealed Carry Soft Shell Anorak – Men’s. A comfortable and secure holster is essential for safe and effective concealed carry.
Conclusion on Rothco Concealed Carry Soft Shell Anorak – Men’s
The Rothco Concealed Carry Soft Shell Anorak – Men’s is a decent product that delivers good value for its price. It offers a functional design, comfortable fleece lining, and accessible concealed carry features, making it a practical option for budget-conscious individuals. While the durability and fit could be improved, the overall performance is satisfactory for its intended use.
The price is justified, given the features and functionality offered. It’s not a high-end tactical jacket, but it provides a decent balance of performance and affordability.
I would personally recommend the Rothco Concealed Carry Soft Shell Anorak – Men’s to individuals seeking an affordable and functional concealed carry option for casual outdoor activities and everyday wear. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly way to stay warm, dry, and prepared, then this anorak is worth considering. Get yours today and experience the peace of mind that comes with discreet and accessible concealed carry!