Battle Belt Setup

Understanding the nuances of gun belts / duty belts / battle belts or whatever you want to call them is crucial for both professionals and shooting enthusiasts. In this video, Chuck Pressburg with Presscheck Training and Consulting dives into the intricacies of battle belt setups including wearing an external belt system as opposed to a belt that serves the dual purpose of holding up your pants while also carrying gear. 

External Belt versus Integrated Belt System 

External Belts: GRID® Belt versus CHLK® Belt

Both battle belts offered by Blue Force Gear (BFG) feature MOLLEminus, which allows the user to mount pouches using the MOLLE attachment system. The BFG Grid Belt is designed for range use. It has a lower price point compared to the CHLK Belt and is slightly lighter in weight. However, it lacks the life-saving equipment capability that the BFG CHLK Belt features. The CHLK Belt includes integrated hard points for safety lines and is rated to hold 3500 lbs. It's ideal for aircraft operations or mountainous terrain and features attachment points in the front and back.  

What to Mount on Battle Belts 

Typically, the minimum range belt setup will include a holster, magazine pouches, and a medical kit. Additional pouches like dump pouches or something to hold a multitool will be individual preference. When it comes to holsters, they should be mounted on the strong side. Blue Force Gear designed the Holster Adapter to work perfectly with the GRID and CHLK belts to keep the holster in the same position, preventing it from moving forward or backward when worn. 

For first aid kits, Chuck prefers to run the Micro Trauma Kit NOW! that has a horizontal footprint and reduced size dressings perfect for range use. He has it paired with the Shear Hammock that holds a tourniquet and pair of medical scissors. He also mentions the option of going smaller with the Micro Trauma Kit NOW! – Nano that has a vertical footprint or going larger with the Micro Trauma Kit NOW! – Plus for even more capabilities. For additional information on the differences in the Blue Force Gear trauma kit line of pouches and to see a breakdown of all the offerings, check out this blog article. 

For magazine pouches, Chuck mentions a few different options that he likes for his battle belt setup. The BFG Stackable Ten-Speed M4 Mag Pouch not only perfectly holds M4 magazines, but because of its design, can retain other similar sized items. This feature of the Ten-Speed line of pouches makes it the primary choice for so many users around the globe. 
Other useful gear to consider includes gloves, zeroing tools for optics adjustment, chalk for grip in hot weather, a dump pouch for tactical reloads or miscellaneous items, restraints for law enforcement use, and a general purpose pouch for survival items or note-taking materials. 

Make Your Battle Belt Setup Unique to You 

When setting up your belt, remember that your gear configuration should reflect your specific needs and tasks. Carry only what's necessary to reduce fatigue and strain. Place high-use items where they can be easily reached, even when wearing armor. Ensure your belt setup works with other gear, such as plate carriers. Consider different pouch styles based on your armor setup, such as using lower profile pouches for bulkier armor. 

Remember, the ideal belt setup is highly personal. While it's tempting to copy setups you see online, it's crucial to apply principles to your unique situation. Law Enforcement may want the Handcuff Pouch Chuck mentioned or repurpose the Boo Boo Pouch for the same needs. Regularly assess and adjust your configuration based on real-world experience and changing requirements.  

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