Hatch Knee Pads Style Comparrison

Features:
-XTAC
Thermal plastic urethane (TPU)
High-density foam for shock absorption
Lightweight TPU and Cordura® nylon construction
Cool Max™ inner surface for moisture wicking
Non-slip inner surface to keep pads in place
Adjustable straps w/velcro closure
Hatch Rapid Deployment clips for quick on and off

-Centurion
Thermal plastic urethane (TPU)
High-density foam for shock absorption
Lightweight TPU and Cordura® nylon construction
Adjustable straps w/velcro closure
Hatch Rapid Deployment clips for quick on and off


Cost:
-XTAC
$25.99 at US Cav
-Centurion
$19.99 at US Cav

Positives:
-XTAC
I really liked the non-slip coating these knee pads had, it really seemed to help hold them in place throughout a variety of maneuvers. This feature seems to let you back off a little on tightening the straps to hold them in place. I love the rapid deployment fasteners.

-Centurion
The feature I most liked about the centurion pad was the standard size. I felt like my knee was better protected and felt less tension against my knee cap while having my leg in the straight position. These seem to be a better fit for larger knees. I love the rapid deployment fasteners.


Negatives:
-XTAC
As you may notice in the picture my knee appears slightly bent while wearing the XTAC pads and that is due to the fact the pad seems to made in a way that makes it more difficult to straighten your leg out. I didn't really care for this as well as the non-traditional look of these pads.

-Centurion
I really wish the centurion pads had the same non-slip coating on the inside that the XTAC pads have. This feature would have really completed this knee pad.

Overall:
-XTAC
Great pads just wish they were the traditional size.
8 out of 10
-Centurion
Hatch's best pads I just wish they had the non-slip coating.
9 out of 10

Magpul MOE M16/M4 AEG Grip

Features:
Beavertail design
Anti-slip texture
One-piece construction
MIAD A1 style size
Fits M16/M4 style AEG

Cost:
$35.00 (www.airsoftgi.com)
$32.99 Parafrog (in store)

Positives:
The main feature I really like about this grip is the beavertail design. Initially I did not think it would really make any difference in comfort, I assumed a grip is a grip is a grip. I can really feel the difference it makes as soon as I pick it up. Secondly the anti-slip coating is great as well even though it is not something that is immediately noticeable.

Negatives:
The main complaint I have with this grip is specifically with the breather holes which it has on the bottom. The holes are really large which lets in dirt and debris that could cause problems down the road. Additionally I have some concerns about these holes and the role moisture plays on the motor.

Overall:
I really like this grip however after weighing the negatives with the price and the fact that it is more expensive than its real steel counterpart this grip is not a must have in my book.
6 out of 10

PCU Level 5 by ORC Industries

Features:
100% Nylon
Light weight
Windproof
Water repellent
Hood stows in collar
Velcro wrist closures
Two zippered internal mesh pockets
Arm pockets w/velcro closure
Bottom hem equipped w/cinch cord
Hood equipped w/cinch cords

Cost:
$96.99 (www.orcind.com)

Positives:
The thing I like the most about this jacket is the fact that it is light weight. This allows it to be worn even in warmer conditions for rain protection or just in those situations where you need your arms covered w/running the risk of over heating as often happens in airsoft games. I typically do not use the internal mesh pockets to stow gear and usually keep them unzipped in warmer conditions to accommodate for additional air flow.

Negatives:
The stitching which secures the velcro the flap on my left pocket closure is coming out and needs to be resown but this issue is not too severe given that the jacket is almost two years old. Anything more than light rain will soak through this jacket.

Overall:
Overall I really love this jacket and I wear it frequently.
I would give this jacket an 8 out of 10.

Oakley Hot Weather Assault Boot 8"

Features
Made in U.S.A.
Brushed Leather & Canvas
Moisture wicking liner
Lightweight vulcanized rubber cup sole
High G-Last, Roomy box toe
651 grams

Cost:
$185.00 (www.oakley.com)
$135.00 (www.usstandardissue.com) (govt. discount rate)

Positives:
Very comfortable boot which feels more like a tennis shoe on the foot than a combat boot. These boots keep my feet from getting sweaty but don't let in a lot of moisture if you're in a wet environment. I have had these boots for almost two years now and I have had zero problems out of them. I wore them when I deployed to Iraq and I am extremely glad that I had them.

Negatives:
The Oakley logo on my pair is a subdued logo which appears to just be stamped into the leather on the outer heel, this logo quickly fades from view as the boots are broken in. This could be viewed as a positive or a negative, and I believe this has changed in the latest model.

Overall:
These boots lose marks on price despite the fact I think the quality makes up for it.
I give these boots a 9 out of 10.