5.11 Tactical Celebrates 20th Anniversary

by
posted on February 16, 2023
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
511 Celebrating

5.11 Tactical, a global innovator of purpose-built gear, is celebrating its 20-year anniversary in 2023. The company officially launched on Jan. 29, 2003.

“Since 2003, it has been a privilege empowering customers to Always Be Ready,” said 5.11 Tactical CEO Francisco J. Morales. “Whether they depend on our gear in the line of duty or for everyday use, we’d like to say thank you for counting on us as we pass this milestone and look forward to the future.”

Founded in California, 5.11 Tactical got its start from a pair of rock-climbing pants named after the Yosemite Decimal System for assigning a rating to a vertical ascent’s difficulty. Class 5 reflects the climb will be technically difficult, with protection and belays required. The number 11 indicates the route will feature vertical walls most of the time, with occasional overhangs, and enthusiasts can expect their holds to be small.

The long-lasting quality of those pants was reflected well in the company’s name, and eventually other consumer in other pursuits discovered their durability and functional features. As a result of that unexpected demand, the brand expanded its product offering and grew in popularity, especially withing the public safety, self-defense and military arenas. The company’s Apex Pant is a sterling example of the durable build and features packed into all of its gear.

“Serving those who serve will always be at the forefront of what we do,” said Morales. “Whether it’s through brand partnerships, special events like our annual 5.11 Days celebration, or simply developing dependable gear, we will always strive to support public safety professionals and military personnel and show our gratitude for their service.”

Today, the company works directly with end users to design purpose-built gear for enhancing the safety, comfort and performance of those who serve, outdoor adventurers, training enthusiasts and customers who wish to live the brand’s mantra of "Always Be Ready." 5.11 Tactical products can be purchased online, through authorized dealers and retailers, as well as at more than 100 company-owned retail stores across the United States.

Latest

smith & wesson performance center model 19 carry comp moss
smith & wesson performance center model 19 carry comp moss

Unlocking The Future: Smith & Wesson's "No Lock" Revolvers

The future is shaping up to be a good one for fans of Smith & Wesson revolvers. The iconic American company had released 14 new models thus far in 2025 at the time this was written mid-year. And, with one exception, they have all shared a common feature—no internal lock.

The Armed Citizen® Oct. 6, 2025

Read today's "The Armed Citizen" entry for real stories of law-abiding citizens, past and present, who used their firearms to save lives.

FEMA Notes Decline In Disaster Preparedness

A recent report from the Federal Emergency Management Administration (FEMA) noted a decline in local government preparedness for natural disasters, putting increased pressure on individuals to prepare themselves for emergencies.

Army Announces Type Classification Of New Infantry Rifle, Machine Gun

In May 2025, the U.S. Army’s Soldier Lethality Project at the Picatinny Arsenal in New Jersey announced the official type classification of SIG Sauer’s M7 rifle and M250 automatic rifle, previously known as the XM7 and the XM250, respectively.

RXR22: Savage Arms Redefines The Budget Rimfire Rifle

Savage Arms has a long history of producing affordable and accurate rimfire rifles, but with its RXR22, the company is bringing a new level of affordability and modularity to rimfire rifle fans.

SARCO: A Lifetime Covered Up With Surplus Firearm Parts

When it comes to selling gun parts and gun-related military surplus, Charles “Cholly” Steen has been at it for longer than almost anyone. It all started when, as a 5-year-old, he began stashing odds and ends in the drawers of his clothes dresser.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.