Product Preview: Range Utility Belt

posted on November 17, 2016
** 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. **
belt.jpg

The object was to assemble a general-purpose, gun- and gear-bearing apparatus that would be suitable for training, competition and field use, yet would be a trimmer, more discreet package than a pack, vest or chest rig. My plan was to use a competition-style over belt, as worn in action pistol and 3-gun events, as a foundation, but to allocate some real estate, usually reserved for extra magazine pouches, for a multi-tool, dump pouch or other equipment. In this way it would be a versatile, easily configured assembly of gear that, if necessary, could be donned quickly and over top of my pants and belt.

My vision changed somewhat when I considered the advantages of using PALS webbing (Pouch Attachment Ladder System) for attachment, compared to popular competition setups that might use screws and plates or a hook-and-loop security belt. Conveniently, I came across 5.11 Tactical’s VTAC Brokos Belt, which is essentially a belt sleeve made from durable nylon and breathable, athletic-style mesh, with an interior that pads and supports the wearer, and an outer surface that is lousy with PALS webbing (511tactical.com, MSRP $75). I already owned a 1.75" rigger’s belt with a Cobra buckle, so the Brokos seemed like a great option. I also picked up a Large Drop Pouch from 5.11 (MSRP $25) because, really, what’s a utility rig without a dump bag?

Bravo Concealment BCA Holster

For a holster and magazine pouch I turned to a trusted favorite from Bravo Concealment (bravoconcealment.com, MSRP $70). I’ve used the company’s BCA holster and magazine pouches for everyday carry of several of my personal firearms, and I’ve always been impressed with the retention the molded Kydex provides, despite being an open-top design, and the comfort of carry provided by the angled belt loop wings, which do a good job accounting for the natural contours of the carrier’s body.

The challenge came in trying to attach the holster and magazine pouch to the Brokos belt. My BCA holster has 1.5" belt loops for everyday wear with my leather gun belts. The loops’ size does not work well with PALS straps, and they are too small for the wider riggers belt. The solution came in the form of the Bawidamann PUP system.

Bawidamann PUP

Andrew Bawidamann is an artist and blade designer who saw a need in the tactical market for a system to make any piece of kit PALS compatible. Hence the PALS Universal Platform, or PUP for short. The PUP comes in two sizes, mini or standard, with one or two backstraps to be woven through ladder webbing. The platforms can be purchased blank or pre-drilled, the latter featuring an array of 13/64" holes. In either case, Bawidamann sends a pack of Chicago screws and rubber spacers for attaching gear to the platforms.

For the utility belt project, the Bawidamann PUP proved to be the linchpin that held it all together. The system interfaces perfectly with the grommets that are prominently featured on many Kydex holsters and sheaths, and allowed me to easily mount my BCA and magazine pouch using two Mini Pups apiece (bawidamann.com, MSRP $35). Once assembled, my range utility belt proved comfortable and, thanks to the PUP, easily customizable.

Latest

Ortgies Pistol Ihtog 1
Ortgies Pistol Ihtog 1

I Have This Old Gun: The Ortgies Pistol

One of the lesser-known, German-made handguns from the early 20th century, the Ortgies pistol has a fascinating history stretching from the end of World War I all the way to the conclusion of World War II.

New For 2025: Taurus GX4 Strike Bravo

In a collaboration with Strike Industries, Taurus USA has launched its GX4 Strike Bravo, which combines elements of its popular micro-compact handgun with a chassis-frame design capable of accepting a stabilizing brace.

PenFed Touts Successful Three Quarters In 2025

In a quarterly update to members, PenFed Credit Union CEO James Schenck highlighted the company's strong financial position while also sharing some of his financial insights.

2026 NRA Youth Education Summit Applications Open

Applications are now open for the 2026 NRA Youth Education Summit (Y.E.S.), an all-expenses-paid, six-day leadership and scholarship program for rising high school juniors and seniors.

I Have This Old Gun: Colt-Burgess Rifle

There was a time when firearm manufacturers were primarily known for producing only one specific type of gun. In fact, their fame, reputations and, often, their fortunes hinged upon it.

The Rifleman Report: The Misrepresented Armed Citizen

Despite what mainstream news outlets would have us believe, most armed citizens are thoughtful, deliberate, responsible Americans whose foremost concerns are the well-being of themselves and their families.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.