There's little doubt that 5.11 make some fine clothing, which is primarily aimed at the police and security field. However, we sports shooters can also benefit from what are some touh and highly practical designs. Their Tactical shirt and trousers offers some good duty-type wear, but if you want a bit more then their new TDU range (Tactical Dress Utility) is worth a look.
TDU is a take on the old US Army BDU (battle dress utility) range of clothing. Our example is made from rip stop cloth and finished in Digital Woodland camo pattern, but solid colours - black, brown, TDU green and khaki and, dark navy are also available.
The trousers feature a siz-pocket build with two large cargo pockets on the leg, which contain inside dividers for individual items as well as the .511 Back-Up Belt System carriers. Removable knee pads are included and the build is tough with triple stitched seams and bar tacking in all high stress areas. The waist band is elasticated and self adjusting and the closure is by zip with button and a press stud.
The long sleeved shirt offers the same build and is more of jacket length with two front pockets and 5.11's hidden document slots under the outer pockets. Likewise there are integral elbow pads too, with closure being by buttons with an over flap. All the material is Teflon-treated to improve stain resistance.
We have been trialling our TDU suit for a few months now and it's tough. If you're looking for some hard wearing and practical hunting/shooting clothing this is it...
This article appeared in the October 2007 issue of Gun Mart, and is reproduced here with permission.
You can buy 5.11 TDU Clothing directly from this site.
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