First Thoughts on the Tethrd Clipees 2 pk.
The Tethrd Clipees 2 pk. from Tethrd are a deceptively simple product, promising to be a quick and easy solution for attaching gear to MOLLE webbing. These lightweight, minimalist clips aim to provide a secure and versatile attachment point for everything from rangefinders to water bottles, streamlining your saddle hunting setup or organizing your backpack. My initial reaction was cautiously optimistic; could something this small and inexpensive really make a noticeable difference in convenience and efficiency?
My primary interest in the Tethrd Clipees 2 pk. stemmed from a growing frustration with cumbersome carabiners and noisy buckles on my saddle hunting setup. I needed a streamlined, quiet, and reliable way to attach essential gear like my lineman’s rope and pull-up rope to my saddle. The promise of a lightweight, MOLLE-compatible system was immediately appealing.
Upon unboxing, the Tethrd Clipees 2 pk. present themselves as exactly what they are: two small, molded plastic clips. Their weight is almost negligible, and the construction appears robust for their size. They are a dark, neutral color that blends well with most tactical gear. My first impression was that they are smaller than I anticipated, but the plastic feels dense and durable.
Compared to standard carabiners, which are often bulky and prone to clanging, or traditional MOLLE straps that can be time-consuming to weave, the Tethrd Clipees 2 pk. seemed like a far more elegant solution. I also considered using Grimlocs, but they can be prone to breakage under heavy load, and the Tethrd Clipees 2 pk. seemed like they might offer a stronger, more secure hold due to their design. I chose the Tethrd Clipees 2 pk. specifically for their streamlined design and compatibility with my existing saddle and backpack systems.
My initial feeling was one of cautious excitement. These little clips seemed to offer a simple and effective solution to a nagging problem. If they performed as promised, they could significantly improve my hunting experience. The small size was both a positive (minimal weight) and a potential negative (questionable strength).
Real-World Testing: Putting Tethrd Clipees 2 pk. to the Test
First Use Experience
My first field test of the Tethrd Clipees 2 pk. was during a scouting trip in preparation for the upcoming deer season. I attached one to my saddle to hold my pull-up rope and the other to my backpack for quick access to my wind checker. The terrain was varied, including dense brush and steep inclines, providing a good test of the clips’ security.
The Tethrd Clipees 2 pk. performed admirably in dry conditions. They securely held my gear without any slippage or disconnections. The ease of clipping and unclipping was a major improvement over my previous setup, allowing for faster and quieter adjustments in the field.
The ease of use was immediately apparent. It took mere seconds to attach the Clipees to the MOLLE webbing, and the simple push-to-release mechanism was intuitive and efficient. There was no need to fumble with buckles or untangle straps.
The only initial issue I encountered was a slight concern about their long-term durability in extremely cold weather. I worried the plastic might become brittle, but that remained to be seen.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use during scouting, hunting, and hiking trips, the Tethrd Clipees 2 pk. have proven to be surprisingly resilient. They have endured multiple exposures to rain, mud, and temperature fluctuations. They have held up well, showing no signs of cracking or significant wear.
The Clipees have shown only minor cosmetic wear, primarily some slight scuffing on the surface of the plastic. However, this hasn’t impacted their functionality. They still clip securely and release smoothly.
Maintenance has been minimal; a quick rinse with water and a wipe-down with a cloth after muddy hunts is all that’s needed. There are no small parts to lubricate or delicate mechanisms to worry about.
Compared to my previous experiences with bulkier and more complex attachment systems, the Tethrd Clipees 2 pk. are a clear winner in terms of simplicity, weight, and ease of use. They may not be as bombproof as a steel carabiner, but they offer a practical balance of strength and convenience for most applications.
Breaking Down the Features of Tethrd Clipees 2 pk.
Specifications
The Tethrd Clipees 2 pk. are a minimalist accessory designed for easy attachment of gear to MOLLE webbing. Each Clipee weighs approximately 1/2 ounce, making them incredibly lightweight and unobtrusive. They are constructed from a durable molded plastic. Each Clipee attaches to two standard MOLLE tabs, providing a secure and stable connection. This design ensures compatibility with a wide range of tactical gear.
These specifications are significant because they prioritize weight savings and ease of use without sacrificing durability. The lightweight design is crucial for hunters and backpackers who are conscious of every ounce. The compatibility with standard MOLLE webbing ensures that the Clipees can be easily integrated into existing gear setups.
Performance & Functionality
The Tethrd Clipees 2 pk. perform their primary function – attaching gear to MOLLE webbing – exceptionally well. They provide a secure and stable attachment point for a variety of items, from small accessories like rangefinders and wind checkers to larger items like water bottles and lightweight ropes. The simple push-to-release mechanism allows for quick and easy access to gear.
The Clipees excel in their simplicity and ease of use. However, they are not designed for extremely heavy loads. While they can handle most common hunting and backpacking gear, they may not be suitable for attaching heavy tools or equipment.
Overall, the Tethrd Clipees 2 pk. meet and exceed expectations for their intended purpose. They are a lightweight, durable, and easy-to-use solution for attaching gear to MOLLE webbing.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Tethrd Clipees 2 pk. is simple and functional. The molded plastic construction feels robust and comfortable in hand. The low weight ensures that they don’t add unnecessary bulk to your gear.
The Clipees are exceptionally user-friendly. There is no learning curve involved; they clip easily onto MOLLE webbing and release with a simple push. The ergonomic design makes them easy to manipulate even with gloved hands.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my weeks of testing, the Tethrd Clipees 2 pk. appear to be quite durable. They have withstood exposure to various weather conditions and held up well under moderate stress. While they are not indestructible, they are certainly built to last for a reasonable amount of time under normal use.
Maintenance is virtually non-existent. A quick rinse with water and a wipe-down with a cloth is all that’s required to keep them clean and functioning properly.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Tethrd Clipees 2 pk. are primarily a standalone accessory. They don’t come with any additional accessories or offer any direct customization options.
However, their compatibility with standard MOLLE webbing allows them to be used with a wide range of MOLLE-compatible pouches, holsters, and other accessories from various brands. This versatility makes them a valuable addition to any tactical or outdoor gear setup.
Pros and Cons of Tethrd Clipees 2 pk.
Pros
- Lightweight and compact: Adds minimal weight and bulk to your gear setup.
- Easy to use: Simple push-to-release mechanism allows for quick and convenient access to gear.
- Durable construction: Molded plastic is surprisingly resilient and holds up well under moderate stress.
- MOLLE compatible: Works seamlessly with standard MOLLE webbing on a variety of gear.
- Inexpensive: Offers a cost-effective solution for organizing and attaching gear.
Cons
- Not suitable for heavy loads: May not be strong enough for attaching extremely heavy tools or equipment.
- Plastic construction: While durable, plastic is not as robust as metal alternatives.
Who Should Buy Tethrd Clipees 2 pk.?
The Tethrd Clipees 2 pk. are perfect for saddle hunters, backpackers, hikers, and anyone who uses MOLLE-compatible gear and needs a lightweight and convenient way to attach accessories. Their ease of use and minimal weight make them an ideal choice for those who value efficiency and organization in the field.
Those who regularly carry extremely heavy loads or require bombproof attachment points may want to consider alternative options such as steel carabiners or heavy-duty MOLLE straps. The Clipees are designed for lightweight convenience, not for extreme-duty applications.
A must-have modification is perhaps a length of paracord tied to each Clipee. This would act as a lanyard to prevent dropping the Clipee in the dark or in thick brush.
Conclusion on Tethrd Clipees 2 pk.
The Tethrd Clipees 2 pk. are a surprisingly effective and versatile accessory. They provide a simple, lightweight, and convenient solution for attaching gear to MOLLE webbing, making them a valuable addition to any outdoor or tactical setup. While they may not be suitable for extremely heavy loads, they offer a practical balance of strength, convenience, and affordability for most users.
At $11.49 for a two-pack, the Tethrd Clipees 2 pk. represent an excellent value. They are a small investment that can make a significant difference in the organization and efficiency of your gear.
I would definitely recommend the Tethrd Clipees 2 pk. to anyone looking for a lightweight and easy-to-use MOLLE attachment system. They are a simple yet effective solution that can streamline your gear setup and make your time in the field more enjoyable. Upgrade your gear organization today and experience the convenience of the Tethrd Clipees 2 pk.!