View Full Version : Blue Force Gear SOC-C Padded Belt System
Always trying something new.
I often use training classes as a test bed for testing guns, gear, and accessories. At carbine courses in the past I usually wore my SWAT gear or some sort of body armor, plate carrier, or chest rig that I was testing at the time.
At Pat Rogers’ 3 day Carbine Operator’s Course last month I decided to change gears and try a padded belt system and suspenders.
I have used several different padded belt systems over the years, from the old Eagle Industries Military Web Belt Pad to current designs. Padded belt systems have never worked well for me. My complaints about the padded belt systems I have used is they all tend to be bulky, cumbersome, moved around too much, had a tendency to ride up in the area of the back or on my support side, and weren’t all that comfortable.
Because I never found a padded belt system that worked for me, I have always used a Wilderness Instructor’s Belt to hold up my pants and directly attach my tactical holster and thigh mounted gas mask pouch directly to the Wilderness Instructor’s Belt, as is illustrated in this pic from Pat Rogers‘ 2007 carbine course:
(Photo Credit - Zak Smith Demigod LLC. - Pic used with permission)
http://demigodllc.com/photo/EAG-Carbine-2007/small/D101_5331_img.jpg
Having the holster and other gear mounted directly to my trouser belt provides a stable platform, but fatigues and causes discomfort to the hips and lower back after being worn for several hours.
Recently I acquired a Blue Force Gear SOC-C Lightweight Duty Belt http://www.blueforcegear.com/product.cfm?type=cat&cat_id=6&prod_id=149, SOC-C Modular Padded Belt http://www.blueforcegear.com/product.cfm?type=cat&cat_id=6&prod_id=116, and SOC-C Low Profile Suspenders http://www.blueforcegear.com/product.cfm?type=cat&cat_id=6&prod_id=138 and figured I would run this set up during all 3 days of Pat’s class.
All 3 pieces of the Blue Force Gear padded belt system were typical Blue Force Gear top notch quality (in construction, materials, features, and design). The padded belt had enough padding to be comfortable, but not so much that it was overly bulky or cumbersome. The underside of the padded belt and low profile suspenders is lined with a mesh material to aid with cooling / wicking, the outer side of the padded belt is lined with two rows of MOLLE webbing.
The padded belt has a lot of adjustment and is easy to adjust. I wear a 29” waist Levis and I still have approximately 4” of adjustment left (I have the belt system adjusted so I have just enough room to fit it over a light jacket).
The lightweight duty belt attaches to the padded belt and is held firmly in place with Velcro. Once attached and adjusted the duty belt and padded belt feel like it’s one belt, not two separate belts.
The low profile suspenders are comfortable, low profile enough to be worn under armor without discomfort, and feature an elastic yoke that kept the belt from riding up in the back when doing a lot of movement (ie. prone to standing, kneeling to standing, running, etc).
After running the Blue Force Gear SOC-C padded belt system and suspenders for all 3 days of Pat’s class, I found the system was extremely comfortable, I had no issues with fatigue or discomfort in my hips or lower back, easy to don / easy to dof, the belt didn‘t move around, the suspenders were very comfortable (almost didn’t even notice them).
Definitely changed my opinion on padded belt systems, and probably one of the most comfortable gear systems I have ever run in a training class.
The entire belt system as I used it for Pat’s class:
http://i278.photobucket.com/albums/kk99/USMC03_photos/Blue%20Force%20Gear/DPP_0003.jpg
Underside, note the mesh material. Very comfortable:
http://i278.photobucket.com/albums/kk99/USMC03_photos/Blue%20Force%20Gear/DPP_0007-1.jpg
Adjustment under the lumbar pad:
http://i278.photobucket.com/albums/kk99/USMC03_photos/Blue%20Force%20Gear/DPP_0004.jpg
To attach the duty belt to the padded belt, you just lift up the Velcro outer flaps on the padded belt. Also note the extra piece of Velcro on the flap, it attaches to the Velcro strip on the Safariland 6004:
http://i278.photobucket.com/albums/kk99/USMC03_photos/Blue%20Force%20Gear/DPP_0005.jpg
For magazine pouches, I used an ATS Triple M4 Mag shingle http://www.atstacticalgear.com/cgi/commerce.cgi?preadd=action&key=ST-7340, with an Extreme Gear Labs PiMP double pistol mag pouch, and Loppy dump pouch http://www.extremegearlabs.com/mm5/merchant.mvc?Screen=CTGY&Store_Code=EGL&Category_Code=Magaz, :
http://i278.photobucket.com/albums/kk99/USMC03_photos/Blue%20Force%20Gear/DPP_0006-1.jpg
http://i278.photobucket.com/albums/kk99/USMC03_photos/Blue%20Force%20Gear/DPP_0001.jpg
S/F,
Jeff
BushmasterFanBoy
06-01-09, 22:31
I've been running a similar setup (sans suspenders) since Feb. and I have to agree with your conclusions.
Here's some pics of my belt, I think the adjustment feature is clear by the size of my waist. :eek:
http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd283/Burke888/DSC_015.jpg
Prior to this, I had been running a bare belt/chest rig combo, and I find the BFG belt to be a huge improvement. This belt is just plain comfy, I've yet to run into any gear comfort issues, at all.
I have been using one a little since March. Had it at a Pat Rogers class and at a Larry Vickers class. I find it comfortable and had no problem wearing it all day for each day of the classes. I have the suspenders.
For the Pat Rogers class I actually attached the holster strap to my real pants belt since I want to be able to take it off without taking off the holster, but for the LV class I attached the holster to the BFG padded belt inside. I am not using the BFG duty belt -- mainly because it was not out when I got the padded belt so I bought a Tactical Tailor duty belt. I will be picking up the BFG light duty belt for this soon.
Rockin' the Blue Force Gear padded belt in a recent EAG Tactical Carbine Operator's Class:
http://i278.photobucket.com/albums/kk99/USMC03_photos/Pat%20Rogers%202009/DPP_0014-1.jpg
http://i278.photobucket.com/albums/kk99/USMC03_photos/Pat%20Rogers%202009/DPP_0017-1.jpg
S/F,
Jeff
I really like that set up but I have one question. I dont run a drop leg pistol holster. I have a regular Bladetech kydex. Is there a way to use my holster with out the outter pade getting in the way?
IrishDevil
06-09-09, 19:50
While I haven't used the Blue Force rig yet. I've used the DOH belt loop with other molle belts, specifically the ATS War Belt, works well.
I really like that set up but I have one question. I dont run a drop leg pistol holster. I have a regular Bladetech kydex. Is there a way to use my holster with out the outter pade getting in the way?
I don't know. I know Blade-Tech makes an off set belt loop mount, that may possibly work. You may want to give the guys at Blue Force Gear a call.
S/F,
Jeff
While I haven't used the Blue Force rig yet. I've used the DOH belt loop with other molle belts, specifically the ATS War Belt, works well.
IMHO the DOH is the best Bladetech solution for any modular belt (including ours) and works quite well without turning your holster into a drop leg rig. When I use a BT holster on my belt I run it on a DOH.
Below is a photo of a Bladetech DOH mounted to the inner belt of our SOC-C Modular Belt.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v342/stephen_101st/Gear/DSC02499.jpg
IMHO the DOH is the best Bladetech solution for any modular belt (including ours) and works quite well without turning your holster into a drop leg rig. When I use a BT holster on my belt I run it on a DOH.
Below is a photo of a Bladetech DOH mounted to the inner belt of our SOC-C Modular Belt.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v342/stephen_101st/Gear/DSC02499.jpg
Now thats tight.
http://i278.photobucket.com/albums/kk99/USMC03_photos/Blue%20Force%20Gear/DPP_0002.jpg
I've been running a Blade-Tech dropped and offset holster on my ICE Tactical Padded MOLLE belt. While it is an option, I don't think it is the best option. Mine tends to cant inward toward my leg a little more than I would prefer. While I don't think the platform is "unstable". I believe a 6004 setup is more stable. Of course if you don't want anything whatsoever strapped to your leg, then the Blade-Tech holster would be the way to go. The holster is well built, I just prefer to have the stability the shroud and leg strap provide on the 6004. Just my thoughts.
IMHO the DOH is the best Bladetech solution for any modular belt (including ours) and works quite well without turning your holster into a drop leg rig. When I use a BT holster on my belt I run it on a DOH.
Below is a photo of a Bladetech DOH mounted to the inner belt of our SOC-C Modular Belt.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v342/stephen_101st/Gear/DSC02499.jpg
Would it be possible to use Bladetech's WRS DUTY HOLSTER w/Light TEK-LOK with the SOC-C Modular belt? Watching the vid on Blade-Tech's site, I see you have to push inwards to release the retention strap. Will the holster with the WRS locking/release system be outboard enough to clear the battle belt?
link to holster: http://www.blade-tech.com/RH-WRS-DUTY-HOLSTER-w-Light-TEK-LOK-pr-1052.html
pic from Blade-Tech
http://www.blade-tech.com/product_images/d_369.jpg
Would it be possible to use Bladetech's WRS DUTY HOLSTER w/Light TEK-LOK with the SOC-C Modular belt? Watching the vid on Blade-Tech's site, I see you have to push inwards to release the retention strap. Will the holster with the WRS locking/release system be outboard enough to clear the battle belt?
I honestly don't know, but here are a couple of photos for comparison.
Safariland ALS on MLS mid-ride belt loop adapter. Not the loop velcro attached to adapter to "lock" holster in place on belt.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v342/stephen_101st/Gear/SOC-CModularPaddedBelt-3.jpg
Bladetech DOH
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v342/stephen_101st/Gear/SOC-CModularPaddedBelt-4.jpg
I hope this helps.
Stephen
Wilhelm,
Try a set of these: http://blade-tech.com/Molle-Lok-Small-Set-of-2-pr-1027.html
Stephen,
Great pics. Very useful in comparison. While I think the Blade-tech is a well made holster. At this point I prefer the Safariland, but for some purposes the Blade-tech may provide the better answer.
Question, I got the Blade-Tech holster to fit a 2.0 inch belt to go with my ICE Tactical belt. It looks as if the belt width may adjust, but I'm not sure if it intended to be adjustable. Any thoughts on this?
Safariland ALS on MLS mid-ride belt loop adapter. Not the loop velcro attached to adapter to "lock" holster in place on belt.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v342/stephen_101st/Gear/SOC-CModularPaddedBelt-3.jpg
Stephen, is that by any chance a Model 6378 holster? Or something else?
I sorta came up with the same configuration in my head to support my M&P .45, and am merely waiting for it to arrive. Hadn't thought of the loop velcro, though. That's one of those ideas that's so simple it's clever as hell. I'm also getting a Comp-Tac Settable Cant holster. Spoke to a customer rep, neither of us could think of a reason why one can't remove the belt mount and turn it upside down IOT run it lower on a belt like the above configuration.
I've enjoyed the ALS holster in an HSGI drop-leg for my 1911, but plan on seeing whether or not I prefer a lock system holster or plain Kydex just at/below the belt line.
Stephen, is that by any chance a Model 6378 holster? Or something else?
I sorta came up with the same configuration in my head to support my M&P .45, and am merely waiting for it to arrive. Hadn't thought of the loop velcro, though. That's one of those ideas that's so simple it's clever as hell. I'm also getting a Comp-Tac Settable Cant holster. Spoke to a customer rep, neither of us could think of a reason why one can't remove the belt mount and turn it upside down IOT run it lower on a belt like the above configuration.
I've enjoyed the ALS holster in an HSGI drop-leg for my 1911, but plan on seeing whether or not I prefer a lock system holster or plain Kydex just at/below the belt line.
I checked the holster and it is marked 6354-683
Stephen
http://i278.photobucket.com/albums/kk99/USMC03_photos/FDE%20LMT/35223ba9.jpg
S/F,
Jeff
Have one and like it just wish there was a way to attach it to my pant's belt. Has anyone figured out a way to use keepers yet?
Have one and like it just wish there was a way to attach it to my pant's belt. Has anyone figured out a way to use keepers yet?
Another member asked me about that and I'm going to take a look at it.
Stephen
I honestly don't know, but here are a couple of photos for comparison.
Safariland ALS on MLS mid-ride belt loop adapter. Not the loop velcro attached to adapter to "lock" holster in place on belt.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v342/stephen_101st/Gear/SOC-CModularPaddedBelt-3.jpg
Bladetech DOH
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v342/stephen_101st/Gear/SOC-CModularPaddedBelt-4.jpg
I hope this helps.
Stephen
Thank you for the pics Stephen. I had a friend order me the Blade-Tech WRS DUTY HOLSTER w/Light TEK-LOK and I'll post some pics of it attached to the belt when both items arrive.
A
http://i278.photobucket.com/albums/kk99/USMC03_photos/FDE%20LMT/af719699.jpg
S/F,
Jeff
Mine arrived today, so I threw an Eagle Duty Belt into it and hung my stuff.
Saying "Wow!" doesn't quite cover it.
BushmasterFanBoy
07-01-09, 17:13
Some new pics of the belt, I'm really digging this setup, a lightened belt beats a chest rig any day, IMHO.
http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd283/Burke888/DSC_5475.jpg
http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd283/Burke888/DSC_5474.jpg
Just FYI
Talked to Stephen earlier today about the armor package for the SOC-C belt. He informed me that the armor is in stock and ready to ship but it's not on the website yet. Hopefully this coming week. You can still call in and order, even though it's not on the website.
Prices:
$349.95 for just the armor and $449.95 for the armor, modular belt, and inner duty belt. All in stock and ready to ship from what I was told.
http://i278.photobucket.com/albums/kk99/USMC03_photos/Blue%20Force%20Gear/SOC-CArmor-1.jpg
S/F,
Jeff
http://i278.photobucket.com/albums/kk99/USMC03_photos/Bravo%20Company%20Mid-Length/3c546919.jpg
S/F,
Jeff
What mag pouches (rifle and pistol) are you running on your belt?
Some new pics of the belt, I'm really digging this setup, a lightened belt beats a chest rig any day, IMHO.
http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd283/Burke888/DSC_5475.jpg
http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd283/Burke888/DSC_5474.jpg
Failure2Stop
08-08-09, 04:26
What mag pouches (rifle and pistol) are you running on your belt?
Those are Eagle FB pouches.
Thanks.
Those are Eagle FB pouches.
BushmasterFanBoy
08-11-09, 11:30
Here's some new photos of my setup. (I was obviously inspired by USMC03's great photography) I can't explain in words just how much I love this belt. :D
http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd283/Burke888/DSC_5901.jpg
http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd283/Burke888/DSC_5926.jpg
Note the new Trauma Kit NOW and BooBoo pouch. Both great products as well.
http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd283/Burke888/DSC_5930.jpg
Here's a shot of the Trauma Kit's Contents (using the BFG refill kit)
http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd283/Burke888/DSC_5911.jpg
Recently got the armor package for the SOC-C belt, as I was changing out the foam I pull out my digital calipers and here's what I found:
Foam - .371"
Armor- .264"
I can notice a slightly slimmer profile with the armor (over the foam pads). The armor also makes the belt a little more rigid, which should support heavier loads better, the armor doesn't seem to have any effect on comfort (but this is just my initial impression of the armor insert) ..... overall I prefer the belt with the armor inserts.
Certainly thinking about picking one of these up. Anyone run a Raven Concealment on these?
Certainly thinking about picking one of these up. Anyone run a Raven Concealment on these?
I have a setup like that.
I have a setup like that.
Have you posted pictures? If so could you provide the link? Also, what do you think, how do you like it? Thanks Rob.
Have you posted pictures? If so could you provide the link? Also, what do you think, how do you like it? Thanks Rob.
I'm pretty sure there are pictures and comments in the first line belts thread.
I'm pretty sure there are pictures and comments in the first line belts thread.
Found it. Just looking to see how difficult it was to attach the Raven to your belt setup. Thanks.
Kentucky Cop
06-29-10, 22:17
Looking at this setup for training. Did I read it right on BFG's site?
$150 for the padded belt, $50 for the "inner" duty belt and an additional $20 dollars for the suspenders plus shipping? Do they not have a package for all 3 pieces at a slightly better rate. Its late and I am am tired. Got all excited about the belt and then saw the price. :eek:
KC
Sierrahotel83
06-29-10, 23:05
Looking at this setup for training. Did I read it right on BFG's site?
$150 for the padded belt, $50 for the "inner" duty belt and an additional $20 dollars for the suspenders plus shipping? Do they not have a package for all 3 pieces at a slightly better rate. Its late and I am am tired. Got all excited about the belt and then saw the price. :eek:
KC
http://www.blueforcegear.com/product.cfm?type=cat&cat_id=6&prod_id=182
http://www.blueforcegear.com/product.cfm?type=cat&cat_id=6&prod_id=182
In case it is not clear, that is the padded belt, inner belt, and suspenders as a kit.
Jeff do you have plans to wear this at work for warrants and such? or just as a training option? I was just inquiring to see if you planed to wear soft armor under or over the shoulder straps?
Also what plate carrier / armor system were you wearing in the first pic?
Great pix as always and you are again going to cost me $$
https://www.m4carbine.net/attachment.php?attachmentid=5397&d=1277883906
https://www.m4carbine.net/attachment.php?attachmentid=5398&d=1277883975
https://www.m4carbine.net/attachment.php?attachmentid=5399&d=1277884484
I'm waiting on my Peters Custom Holsters Spada for Glock17/TLR1 in Coyote to arrive. So far, I really like the BFG belt worn around the house, but have yet to try it in a class.....Looking forward to TigerSwan in December.
Sierrahotel83
06-30-10, 08:47
http://m4carbine.net/attachment.php?attachmentid=5397&stc=1&d=1277883983
http://m4carbine.net/attachment.php?attachmentid=5398&stc=1&d=1277884101
http://m4carbine.net/attachment.php?attachmentid=5399&stc=1&d=1277884492
I'm waiting on my Peters Custom Holsters Spada for Glock17/TLR1 in Coyote to arrive. So far, I really like the BFG belt worn around the house, but have yet to try it in a class.....Looking forward to TigerSwan in December.
Where did you get the EAG drop pouch?
Where did you get the EAG drop pouch?
I took a class with Pat back in March. He was selling them there. It is the Crye dump pouch with his logo if I'm not mistaken.
Sierrahotel83
06-30-10, 09:25
Ok cool I like the way it looks and I had seen USMC03 use one as well was just wondering where to get one... Thanks
I took a class with Pat back in March. He was selling them there. It is the Crye dump pouch with his logo if I'm not mistaken.
IIRC it's Pat's own design collaboration with a stitcher that used to work for Crye. As of right now Pat's classes are the only source for these I'm aware of. I have one and am very happy with it, and frankly wish I had another.
IIRC it's Pat's own design collaboration with a stitcher that used to work for Crye. As of right now Pat's classes are the only source for these I'm aware of. I have one and am very happy with it, and frankly wish I had another.
Thanks for the clarification. I do recall that he had said he had input on the design, but I didn't know that it was a completely separate product. It is a great piece of kit.
Ok cool I like the way it looks and I had seen USMC03 use one as well was just wondering where to get one... Thanks
Check this out. ;) https://www.m4carbine.net/showthread.php?t=48938
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