Description
Rothco ACU Digital Camo Cross Draw Molle Tactical Vest
What is Molle?
Molle (pronounced like the name “Molly”) became widely use in the early 2000’s, intended to replace the ALICE (All-purpose Lightweight Individual Carrying Equipment) which was used since the Vietnam conflict. Molle stands for Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment and was derived from the use of PALS (Pouch Attachment Ladder System) webbing, which is heavy duty nylon strips stitched onto tactical vests, backpacks, and other gear, to allow various Molle compatible pouches, pockets, or holsters to be easily secured to your tactical gear.
Though patented in 1996, by the US Army, early Molle designs were not widely accepted due to the lack of durability and a ball and socket design in the frame and rucksack belt causing numerous lower back injuries. These issues were resolved in future designs and Molle has become the standard issue for all military personnel backpacks and gear since the beginning of the 2001 Afghanistan/Iraq conflict.
Molle Outside the Military
The Molle system in now being widely used by other industries, more suited for the everyday person.
Hunting – Whether hunting elk or waterfowl, your hunting needs are ever changing and the Molle integrated vest, for example, allows hunters to easily interchange pockets, pouches, or holsters, depending on their hunting needs that season, without buying a whole new vest.
Backpacking – If you’ve ever backpacked with gear that doesn’t fit right or with loose items swinging off your backpack, it is no surprise the benefits of Molle into backpacks. Additionally, whether you’re going on a day hike or spending a week in the backcountry, Molle allows a single pack to be modified for your specific backpacking needs.
Medical Field Staff – Depending on each situation, EMT’s and medical field staff need to be prepared for a wide range or situations. Thanks to the Molle system, medical field staff and EMT’s can pre-fill pouches that can easily and quickly be secured to their packs as needed.
Tools compatible – Molle has become so popular, that even tools, such as knives, multitools, scissors, and other items have been strategically designed to easily attach to backpacks or vests.
Tactical Vest Durability and Makeup
Tactical vests are typically constructed out of polyester which is noted to be more durable that other material. The weight of polyester (and other fabric) is measured by the “Denier” which is a unit of measures based on the length and weight of a yarn or fiber. Standard fabric ranges from 40D-80D so the Rothco Cross Draw Tactical Vest at 1000D for example, is definitely suited for high durability. Tactical vests also usually include nylon mesh on various areas. The nylon mesh allows for a higher strength to weight ratio, does not absorb water, and provides breathability to the user for a more comfortable mission.
