Okay... how many different ways can we make a pair of pants? I mean, let's be real: you need to have two legs, the ability to take them on and off conveniently and a comfortable fit. Everything else is icing on the cake, right? Wrong. As anyone who has watched uniform evolution knows, clothing takes on a whole new meaning and functionality when it comes down to design features. This week I've got the pleasure of reviewing a pair of Range Pants made by Tru-Spec and marketed through Brigade Quatermasters. I say "pleasure" because - on the range which is what they were designed for (as it was reported to me) - they've proven quite handy and comfortable. Here's why...
First and foremost, I find myself in need of waistbands that move a little with me as I get older. As much as it pains me to say that, the waist in these pants is elasticized. Rather than having the crimped elastic like is found on some other brands (without naming any well known names), these pants actually have a section inside the waistband that slides together and apart as the elastic stretches or contracts. This is just as comfortable as other methods but leaves a neater appearance (and does a better job of hiding how much your gut is stretching the waist out).
As with other designs, the pants secure with an inside button above the zipper topped off by an outer snap. Five sturdy belt loops are placed around the waist fitting any belt up to 1.75" wide. You could probably squeeze a 2" belt through them, but you'd be really stretching the stitching.
If you look at the picture to the right, we can talk about pockets...
- The back pocket. The only thing in the design of these pants that I'm not a real fan of is how some of the pockets are pinned at one corner and velcro-closed at the other. That aside, these pockets are roomy and provide some options other pant designs don't. The back pocket is plenty large enough to hold the largest redneck wallet from hell.
- What to label this? I use it for a marker, pen, or grease pencil at the range. There is one on either side (every pocket you can see here also exists on the other side) so you can carry multiple marking tools as may be necessary.
- Front pocket. Duh. These are nice and deep so whatever you have in them doesn't easily "jump out" if you're running.
- Cargo pocket. These are big and open wide enough to make it easy to stuff things in or get things out. Inside each is a sewn in compartment divided in two - about right to hold extra magazines or a compact flashlight without it bouncing around so much. By putting items into those sewn-in inner pockets, you end up with less "bucket pocket" and more organization. Thanks to the design of the sewn-in compartments, you can fill them and still have room left over to put more stuff in the cargo pockets.
- Knife / cell phone / magazine pocket. One other either side.
I've been wearing the pants as part of my regular wardrobe for about two months now. The canvas material is thicker than that used in many other types of tactical pants, but not uncomfortable. It softened up nicely after a couple washings and these pants have become one of my favorite pair. An examination of the stitching and seams shows no wear or tear. The few frayed threads I've found are those that are common on new pants. These "Irish pennants" get quickly cut or burned off (it's almost like Basic training and breaking in new BDU pants).
If you're in the market for this type of garment, check them out. I don't think you'll be disappointed.
Stay safe!
