BlackHawk STRIKE Radio/GPS Pouch Review

The Truth Revealed: BlackHawk STRIKE Small Radio/GPS Pouch

The BlackHawk STRIKE Small Radio/GPS Pouch is a seemingly simple piece of kit, but in the world of tactical gear, even the smallest item can make a huge difference. Manufactured by BlackHawk, a name synonymous with ruggedness and reliability, this pouch aims to provide a secure and accessible way to carry essential communication or navigation devices on any MOLLE-compatible platform. This pouch promises to withstand harsh conditions and keep your gear secure.

I needed a reliable way to carry my handheld GPS unit during search and rescue operations without it flopping around or getting snagged. I’ve tried stuffing it in pockets or clipping it to my belt, but those solutions are either uncomfortable or leave the device vulnerable. The BlackHawk STRIKE Small Radio/GPS Pouch looked like the perfect solution.

Unboxing, the pouch felt immediately sturdy. The 500 denier nylon, whether solid colors or CORDURA nylon in MultiCam, inspires confidence. It’s lightweight but feels like it can take a beating.

I considered several other options, including similar pouches from Condor and 5.11 Tactical. Ultimately, I chose the BlackHawk STRIKE Small Radio/GPS Pouch due to BlackHawk’s reputation for quality and the pouch’s straightforward design. I was also swayed by a colleague’s positive experience with other BlackHawk products.

My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The BlackHawk STRIKE Small Radio/GPS Pouch appeared well-made and practical. Now, it just needed to prove itself in the field.

Real-World Testing: Putting BlackHawk STRIKE Small Radio/GPS Pouch to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the BlackHawk STRIKE Small Radio/GPS Pouch during a three-day backcountry navigation training exercise in the Cascade Mountains. This involved hiking through dense forests, scrambling over rocky terrain, and navigating in varying weather conditions. My GPS unit, a Garmin GPSMAP 64st, fit snugly and securely within the pouch.

The pouch performed admirably in challenging conditions, including light rain and dusty trails. The strap closure kept the GPS unit firmly in place, preventing it from bouncing around or falling out, even during rigorous movement. Using the BlackHawk STRIKE Small Radio/GPS Pouch was intuitive.

Initially, weaving the MOLLE straps was a bit fiddly, but once attached, the pouch stayed firmly in place. No issues or surprises arose during my first use.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, including multiple search and rescue operations, the BlackHawk STRIKE Small Radio/GPS Pouch has proven to be remarkably durable. There are no signs of significant wear and tear. The stitching remains strong, and the nylon fabric hasn’t faded or frayed, even after exposure to sun, rain, and mud.

Cleaning the BlackHawk STRIKE Small Radio/GPS Pouch is simple. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. Periodically, I’ll use a mild detergent to address tougher stains.

Compared to previous attempts at carrying a GPS unit, the BlackHawk STRIKE Small Radio/GPS Pouch is a significant upgrade. It provides superior security, accessibility, and comfort. It’s a clear win.

Breaking Down the Features of BlackHawk STRIKE Small Radio/GPS Pouch

Specifications

• The BlackHawk STRIKE Small Radio/GPS Pouch is constructed from either 500 denier nylon (solid colors) or 500 denier CORDURA nylon (MultiCam). These materials offer excellent abrasion resistance and water repellency, ensuring the pouch can withstand harsh environments.
• It features a strap fastener/closure type, providing a secure method of retaining the device within. The strap is easy to operate, even with gloved hands.
• The pouch has a depth/thickness of 1.75 inches, offering sufficient space for most small radios or GPS units without being overly bulky. This allows for a streamlined profile on your gear.
• The width of the pouch is 2.75 inches, providing a compact footprint on your MOLLE platform. This ensures it doesn’t take up excessive space and allows for efficient use of available real estate.
• The height of the pouch is adjustable from 4.5 to 7.5 inches, making it compatible with a variety of radio and GPS models. This adjustability adds versatility to the pouch, allowing it to accommodate different device sizes.
• It utilizes a MOLLE/PALS attachment type for secure and versatile mounting options. The integrated straps weave easily through MOLLE webbing, ensuring a stable and reliable connection.
• The pouch is designated as “Small” in size, indicating its suitability for compact devices. Despite its small size, it offers ample protection and accessibility.

These specifications are important because they directly impact the pouch’s durability, functionality, and compatibility. The 500 denier nylon ensures the pouch can withstand rough handling and environmental factors. The MOLLE compatibility allows for easy integration with existing tactical gear.

Performance & Functionality

The BlackHawk STRIKE Small Radio/GPS Pouch performs its job exceptionally well. It securely holds a radio or GPS unit, providing easy access while preventing accidental loss or damage. The pouch is reliable and user-friendly.

One of the pouch’s strengths is its adjustability, allowing it to accommodate various device sizes. A minor weakness is that the strap closure, while secure, can be slightly cumbersome to operate with very thick gloves. The BlackHawk STRIKE Small Radio/GPS Pouch exceeded my expectations.

Design & Ergonomics

The BlackHawk STRIKE Small Radio/GPS Pouch boasts a straightforward and functional design. The materials used are high-quality, and the stitching is robust. It has a comfortable weight.

The BlackHawk STRIKE Small Radio/GPS Pouch is user-friendly. The MOLLE attachment system is relatively easy to use, and the strap closure is intuitive.

Durability & Maintenance

The BlackHawk STRIKE Small Radio/GPS Pouch is built to last. The 500 denier nylon and reinforced stitching suggest it can withstand years of hard use.

Maintenance is simple. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth is usually sufficient.

Accessories and Customization Options

The BlackHawk STRIKE Small Radio/GPS Pouch doesn’t come with any specific accessories. Its primary function is to securely hold a radio or GPS unit.

It is compatible with any MOLLE-compatible platform, offering a wide range of attachment options. You can easily attach it to vests, backpacks, belts, or any other gear with MOLLE webbing.

Pros and Cons of BlackHawk STRIKE Small Radio/GPS Pouch

Who Should Buy BlackHawk STRIKE Small Radio/GPS Pouch?

The BlackHawk STRIKE Small Radio/GPS Pouch is perfect for military personnel, law enforcement officers, search and rescue teams, and outdoor enthusiasts who need a reliable and secure way to carry a radio or GPS unit. This is for anyone who requires easy access to communication or navigation devices in the field.

Someone who primarily operates in urban environments and doesn’t require MOLLE compatibility might find this pouch overkill. A simpler belt clip or pocket solution might suffice.

There aren’t any must-have accessories, but a small carabiner could be useful for securing the strap closure in particularly demanding situations. Adding a small length of paracord as a dummy cord from the GPS to the molle webbing is good insurance against losing the device.

Conclusion on BlackHawk STRIKE Small Radio/GPS Pouch

The BlackHawk STRIKE Small Radio/GPS Pouch is a well-designed and durable piece of tactical gear that delivers on its promise. It provides a secure and accessible way to carry essential communication or navigation devices on any MOLLE-compatible platform. The BlackHawk STRIKE Small Radio/GPS Pouch gets the job done.

At a price of $34.55, the value is justified by its quality construction and reliable performance. This is a reasonable price for the dependability offered.

I wholeheartedly recommend the BlackHawk STRIKE Small Radio/GPS Pouch to anyone in need of a dependable radio or GPS carrying solution. Secure your gear and focus on the mission—grab your BlackHawk STRIKE Small Radio/GPS Pouch today!