Bending over and going through your toolbox or bag every now and then to get the things you need when being on duty and working on something could be a hassle.
This is when tactical belts do the trick. But, first of all, what is a tactical belt?
It is a durable belt on which you may attach pouches or organizers used to hold tools or other duty paraphernalia to quickly access them and to carry them hands-free.
Table of Contents
Everything About Tactical Belt
There are many types of tactical belts and accessories which serve various purposes but a simple tactical belt definition would be a multipurpose hard-wearing belt used to carry or attach things.
Types and Purposes of Tactical Belts
1. Categories based on purposes
- Trainer or Instructor Tactical Belts
These types of belts are designed for professional trainers or instructors. When trainers give instructions while conducting training for mountain rescue at high elevation, these are attached to secure systems and with formal training, it can also serve as an emergency rappel.
As a robust belt, this design comes with a carabiner clipping mechanism and triple-reinforced stitching. Therefore, it can handle at least 5,000 pounds.
- Tactical Rigger’s belt
These are about 1.75 inches wide and are made for rappelling. They feature some sort of V or D-shaped rings with which a carabiner can be attached.
Due to the requirement to handle heavy weight and harsh conditions, these belts also feature triple-reinforced stitching and a buckle that can handle at least 5000 pounds of breaking strength. However, these are not designed to bring along work tools.
- Tactical gun belts
Usually more rigid and thicker than regular belts, a military gun belt is intended to support your pants and your gun. Therefore, when a firearm is holstered to the belt, there is no sign of stretch, twist, or sag.
A tactical gun belt rig must be extremely stiff to carry firearms, which explains those attached stiffeners or double-reinforced leather to the belt.
While some people who wear tactical belt rigs may experience reduced comfort, tactical gun belts will guarantee good function.
- Tactical duty belts
Duty belts measure at least two inches wide and are intended to carry a load of around 15 pounds. Like the gun belt, it must be extremely rigid to keep duty belt from sagging and be able to hold heavy pieces of equipment.
A 2’’ tactical belt is the largest type. These belts are ideal for holding gear around the waist and outside garments.
Due to its bulkiness, it is not preferable for outdoor or training use. This style is most suited to be used as a uniformed officer or an army tactical belt or as an armed civilian duty belt.
2. Categories based on design
- Frame buckle belts
A frame buckle belt is a synthetic or genuine tactical leather belt. It features a frame and may have one or two prongs. The frame buckle fastens the belt by inserting the prongs through the holes that are punched on it.
- Snap buckle belts
Often constructed from plastic, these are usually seen on bags, harnesses, and other things that need an easy but secure fastening mechanism.
It is the design commonly seen in a military police duty belt because it is durable and easy to use. However, these have much thicker structures which might not fit well with the belt loops on regular pants.
- Hook and loop buckle belts
Among tactical belts, this is the best choice for most wearers. Since they’re manufactured from a single material, they’re very tough and won’t break easily.
- Magnetic latching belts
As for tactical belt designs, magnetic latching belts are relatively new. These are not intended to rappel or anchor yourself at a fixed point.
These incorporate the use of magnets to attach gear or equipment and how strong they hold depends on the magnet strength.
- Webbed belts
This tactical webbing belt is generally called a military belt, yet suitable for causual wear. This belt ensures good tensioning and friction for wearers due to the webbing and buckle design.
In contrast to regular belts, which have pins, these are known to have no holes in the cord to wear a tactical belt customized to the proper size.
Different webbing and buckle with a higher level of tension will result in additional durability. Some of the quality and robust belts can be used for concealing and carrying purposes.
These are intended to be worn for casual, everyday use and are not designed for rappelling, anchoring, or carrying heavy equipment as a military gear belt.
Why You Need a Tactical Belt
It is essential for individuals working in professions where one can be required for a variety of reasons.
Tactical belts have already been utilized for many years to support weapons, hold safety equipment, and carry pouches loaded with necessities.
They also have become an integral part of protective suits for law enforcement and military officers around the world.
Do Tactical Belts Go Through Belt Loops?
It depends on the type of tactical belt. Wide and thick belts are typically incompatible with belt loops while casual, thinner ones may be threaded through them.
FAQs
What are the things to consider when choosing a tactical belt?
- Material
Consider its durability and strength. Opt for high-density material such as a tactical nylon belt.
Made of a tear-resistant breathable material, a nylon tactical belt also dries fast, which is suitable for high temperature or precipitation weather conditions.
- Extra features
If you can, look for MOLLE-compatible loops because they provide additional storage.
- Release Feature
Quick-release features help easily detach the buckle. Check if the buckle is sturdy enough to support the weight of the attachments securely.
- Fitting
Make sure you purchase a belt that perfectly fits you. Consider the length needed so that you can make simple adjustments.
- Attachments
Tactical belts usually come with pouches, attachments, and pockets for basic storage purposes.
- Price
Cheap tactical belts may be the best option when you’re on a tight budget; however, they are usually of low quality.
There are also inexpensive ones that are quite popular such as a Condor tactical belt or a Ronin tactical belt.
It is better to choose one to make the most out of your money.
What are belt keepers used for?
As an essential part of a law enforcer’s equipment, belt keepers and the belt’s hook and loop lining are made to safeguard the duty belt to the interior belt to avoid sliding or shifting.
The extra security provided by the hook and loop keeps the belts linked together and brings more stability and ease of mind while in use.
Conclusion
It’s not just policemen and soldiers that need tactical belts; civilians can also benefit from them. There is a wide variety of tactical belts to choose from, but it all depends on what you would use them for.
Now that you know the answer to “what is a tactical belt?” and its different types and purposes. Is a tactical belt necessary, and if so, which one? You’re free to research your options!
John Cotton is Safecallnow’s copywriter. He is an authority on research and reviews. He is responsible for locating information and guidance on riot and disturbance control equipment, training equipment, correctional products, watch house products, tactical equipment, government regulation information, and more. His work guarantees a high level of proficiency and authority.