Rothco G.I. Military Assorted Military Patches Review

Let’s Talk About Rothco G.I. Military Assorted Military Patches

Patches. They’re more than just fabric; they represent affiliation, experience, and sometimes, a little bit of personality. Rothco G.I. Military Assorted Military Patches, offered by Rothco, promise a grab-bag of military-style insignia, a chance to add authenticity or flair to your gear. The idea of receiving a random assortment of patches appealed to my inherent curiosity and the desire to expand my collection.

For years, I’ve been accumulating patches from various deployments, training exercises, and organizations I’ve been affiliated with. Finding affordable patches to fill out my collection and customize my tactical gear has always been a slight challenge. The Rothco G.I. Military Assorted Military Patches seemed like a cost-effective way to achieve that.

Opening the bag (I opted for the 100-patch option) was like digging through a treasure chest. The sheer variety of colors, designs, and military branches represented was immediately apparent. My initial thought was whether the quality would match the promise of quantity, and whether the assortment would lean towards genuinely useful or obscure novelty.

I considered other bulk patch options on Amazon and from other surplus retailers. Rothco’s reputation for producing affordable, if not always top-tier, gear, combined with the allure of a surprise assortment, ultimately swayed my decision. The other bulk options seemed to offer less variety and more repetition.

My initial reaction was a mix of excitement and slight apprehension. I was thrilled by the prospect of discovering unique pieces, but also wary of receiving duplicates or patches that didn’t align with my collecting interests. The surprise element, however, was undeniably appealing.

Real-World Testing: Putting Rothco G.I. Military Assorted Military Patches to the Test

First Use Experience

My first use involved sorting and categorizing the patches upon arrival. I wanted to see what I had, and plan where to put them. This initially took place in my workshop, followed by attaching several patches to my range bag, tactical vest, and a couple of older backpacks.

The patches endured a rainy range day shortly after being attached. Most held up well, showing no immediate signs of fading or fraying. I also wore a vest adorned with several patches during a moderate hiking trip.

Attaching the patches was straightforward. Most were easily sewn onto the desired fabric. A few of the patches with thicker backings required a bit more effort and a sturdier needle.

After the initial use, I noticed some variation in the stitching quality of the patches. Some had very clean, tight stitching, while others appeared a bit more haphazard. One patch, in particular, had a loose thread that I had to trim to prevent further unraveling.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use, the majority of the patches have remained securely attached and relatively unscathed. The colors have stayed vibrant, and there are no significant signs of wear. The patches attached to my frequently used range bag are showing slight wear around the edges.

The patches on my tactical vest, which sees less frequent but more demanding use, are holding up admirably. I have noticed a few threads starting to loosen on one or two patches after being snagged on branches during a recent training exercise. Regular trimming is necessary to prevent unraveling.

Maintaining the patches is simple. A gentle hand wash with mild detergent is all that’s needed to remove dirt and grime. Avoid machine washing or harsh chemicals.

Compared to patches I’ve acquired from official military sources, the Rothco patches are noticeably less durable. The stitching and material quality are simply not on the same level. However, for the price, the Rothco G.I. Military Assorted Military Patches provide a decent value for adding aesthetic flair to gear without breaking the bank.

Breaking Down the Features of Rothco G.I. Military Assorted Military Patches

Specifications

• Manufacturer: Rothco. Rothco is known for producing a wide range of military and outdoor gear, often at a more accessible price point.

• Material: Polyester with Cotton Thread. This blend provides a balance between durability and cost-effectiveness, though it sacrifices some of the robustness of higher-end materials like nylon.

• Gender: Unisex. This simply means the patches are designed to be used by anyone, regardless of gender.

• Country of Origin: USA. This is a significant selling point for those who prioritize buying products made in the United States.

These specifications indicate a budget-friendly approach to patch production. The polyester blend makes them relatively durable and resistant to fading. The USA origin might be a deciding factor for some buyers.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of these patches is aesthetic enhancement. They serve to personalize gear, display affiliation, or simply add visual interest. The patches perform adequately in this regard.

The assortment provides a diverse range of designs and colors, which adds to the overall appeal. The quality of the stitching and material, however, could be improved.

The patches meet basic expectations for adding decoration to gear. They offer reasonable durability for the price, but don’t expect them to withstand extreme conditions or heavy abuse.

Design & Ergonomics

The patches vary wildly in design, from basic rank insignia to elaborate unit emblems. The variety is both a strength and a weakness.

The patches are generally lightweight and easy to attach. Some designs are more visually appealing than others.

The build quality is decent, but not exceptional. The materials are adequate, and the stitching is generally acceptable for the price point.

Durability & Maintenance

The patches are reasonably durable for casual use. Expect some wear and tear over time, especially with frequent exposure to the elements.

Maintenance is simple. Spot cleaning with mild soap and water is usually sufficient. Avoid harsh chemicals or machine washing.

With reasonable care, these patches should last a few years of moderate use. However, if you are looking for patches to withstand extreme conditions, consider investing in higher-quality options.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Rothco G.I. Military Assorted Military Patches do not come with any additional accessories. The “customization” comes from choosing which patches to attach to your gear and arranging them in a personal way.

The patches are compatible with any fabric surface that can be sewn onto. You can attach them to backpacks, vests, hats, jackets, and more. Consider hook and loop (Velcro) backing to allow swapping out the patches with ease.

Pros and Cons of Rothco G.I. Military Assorted Military Patches

Who Should Buy Rothco G.I. Military Assorted Military Patches?

The Rothco G.I. Military Assorted Military Patches are perfect for:

• Airsoft and paintball enthusiasts looking to add a tactical aesthetic to their gear.
• Collectors seeking to expand their patch collection on a budget.
• Individuals who enjoy customizing their backpacks, jackets, or hats with military-style insignia.
• DIYers and crafters who can repurpose the patches for various projects.

Who should skip this product?

• Those seeking patches of guaranteed high quality and specific designs.
• Individuals who require patches to withstand extreme conditions or heavy use.

Must-have accessories or modifications?

• Sewing kit with needles and thread.
• Hook and loop (Velcro) backing for easy attachment and removal.

Conclusion on Rothco G.I. Military Assorted Military Patches

The Rothco G.I. Military Assorted Military Patches offer an affordable and fun way to acquire a diverse collection of military-style insignia. While the quality may not be on par with official military patches, the sheer quantity and variety make them a worthwhile purchase for those seeking to personalize their gear on a budget.

The price is definitely justified if you’re looking for volume and aren’t overly concerned about pristine quality. If you value a surprise element and enjoy sorting through a mixed bag of designs, this product is a good choice.

I would recommend the Rothco G.I. Military Assorted Military Patches to anyone looking to add some military flair to their gear without breaking the bank. Just be prepared for some variability in quality and the possibility of receiving some patches that don’t quite fit your specific needs.

So, dive in, embrace the unknown, and add some personality to your gear! You might just find a few hidden gems within the assortment.