An Cosantóir

GEAR REVIEW STREAMLIGHT SIDEWINDER €83.95 A high-intensity LED helmet or belt light that of- fers the wearer a huge amount of versatility as well as hands-free functionality. Streamlight's Sidewinder features white, blue, green and red LED bulbs, each of which feature four levels of output intensity: low (5%), medium (20%), medium-high (50%), and high (100%). The 'high' level also has a strobe function. The head of the Sidewinder can rotate up to 1850 to be easy to turn when wearing gloves. A spring steel clip attaches to MOLLE or belt and can be mounted on either side of the light. Switching the light function is designed to be seamless with one switch for 'on/off', dimming and mode-selection functions. The Sidewinder is very strong and Streamlight say that the and is designed polycarbonate lens is not only scratch resistant but unbreakable as well, and has been drop-test verified from 30 feet. The Sidewinder also includes a handy, tactile, on-body battery polarity indicator that facilitates battery replacement in the dark. Tested by Cpl Paul Millar (Inf Std NCO course student) Coming from the Inf Std course perspective, I'd have to say that the torch is ideally suited to operations and field use. It does a multitude of jobs that you would need at least three different torches to do; it incorporates easy-to-use colour changes and bat- tery saving/tactical lighting modes: it can be set with right-angle or normal torch configurations, and it can even be used as a head torch. I'd have no problem recommending it to a colleague that spends a lot of time on exercises or on the ground. The changeable brightness in all colours is a big plus as it helps save battery power on occasions when you don't actually need a full beam. Its easy to use, even with gloves on, and it takes standard AA batteries, so you don't have to worry about trying to find obscure battery types as spares in the middle of an exercise. It is a bit pricey, but considering that it's as indestructible as a torch can get, saves on batteries over its life and does numerous jobs in one, it could be the only torch you need and end up paying for itself… Rating: Brightness - 10. Battery life - 9. Ease of operation - 9. Value for money - 7. This month Team-Alpha is offering a €120 voucher to be used on their website www.team-alpha.ie For a chance to win this month's prize answer the following question: Name three of the six categories on the team-alpha website? COMPETITION ANSWERS TO AN COSANTÓIR'S REGULAR ADDRESS OR BY EMAIL TO SUBS@MILITARY.IE BY 22ND JUNE 2012. WINNER WILL BE THE FIRST CORRECT ENTRY DRAWN. LAST MONTH'S WINNER OF THE MAGPUL DVD COLLECTION WAS CPL MICHAEL BOOKLE, CVBW, CURRAGH CAMP. www.military.ie THE DEFENCE FORCES MAGAZINE gear review | 31 Sponsored by Team Alpha.ie 5.11 TACTICAL TACLITE™ use of perforated EVA foam padding instead of the traditional basic foam backings. The boots feature antibacterial and moisture wick- ing linings, keeping the wearer's feet drier during strenuous activity and are less likely to hold onto odour. In terms of comfort, the Taclite boots feature an Ortholite sock liner, a composite shank and CMEVA midsole, which are designed to work together to provide maximum cushioning, comfort and support for any possible situation. The outsole of the Taclite has deep flex grooves for great flexibility 6-INCH COYOTE BOOT €139.99 A lighter weight, breathable tactical boot, made from 5.11's patented Taclite™ mate- rial, which is a combination of suede, 1200D Cordura nylon and breathable air mesh. 5.11 have enhanced the boot's breathability with the while the multi-directional lugs provide a solid base and traction in all terrains. The fast-rope control tread and defined heel-brake help control your movements when you need it most. The zonal lacing system and the multiple notch-outs work well with the 'sausage laces' to adjust and secure any shape foot. Tested by Cpl Noel Coss (DFTC) Having worn these boots for two weeks so far, I have to say that as footwear go they are probably the best boots I have worn. The boots fit like a glove and are very comfortable to wear even for long periods at a time. They are very lightweight yet rugged and durable over all types of terrain from mountains to marshland to forest trails and urban streets. They are waterproof, keeping the feet dry but at the same time preventing overheating and sweating, letting the feet breathe. They are, in my opinion, the perfect boot in every aspect, providing value for money at €139.99, and they will suit people from the soldier to the hiker, the walker, campers, and even those who just want a good looking pair of boots for good wear or every day use. Only one simple suggestion I would have to improve on these boots would be to offer the would-be buyer a choice of colour. Rating: Comfort - 10. Fit (true to size) - 10. Durability - 9. Value for money - 8.

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