Blackhawk Mag Harness

Guns Magazine, April, 2001

The Blackhawk chest harness system is multi-purpose, capable of holding 30-round M16 mags, AK-47 banana clips and M14 mags with equal ease. We found our PAL mags fit as well. The harness consists of adjustable, padded, crisscross shoulder straps with 1.5" side release buckles. Suspended from the shoulder straps, covering the chest, are four mag pouches and two accessory pouches on the left and right sides.

Each of the four pouches holds three M16 and AK mags or two M14 or FAL mags. Each pouch has a divider to prevent the mags from noisily rattling when quiet movement is imperative. The two end pouches can hold any other gear -- compass, radio, first aid kit, etc. There is a snap-opening pocket that can be used for storing a map or secret plans to invade Sweden.

The quality of the Commando Chest Harness is in keeping with Blackhawk's tradition of excellence. All edges are bound and double-stitched and the material is the finest 1,000-denier Nytaneon nylon. There is a quick-release waist strap with a belt loop attachment system. The harness comes in olive drab or woodland camo and retails for $123.95.

We found the adjustments on the harness more than adequate for different body types. It would easily fit over a ballistic vest. The padded shoulder straps were comfortable, even when the four pouches were stuffed full of M16 mags, a total of 360 rounds. The weight was not unbearable -- no pun intended -- at around 20 lbs.