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What do tearms MOLLE and PALS mean?

MOLLE (Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment)

It is a system originally used by the United States military, which enables the modular construction of carrier equipment. MOLLE system is usually based around load-carrying chest rig or tacticalvest. The MOLLE system was originally developed by Natick Labs and it was introduced in 1997 and became popular in the early 2000s as used by US soldiers and NATO troops.

The MOLLE system consists of PALS standard tape lanes sewn to different carrying devices, for example backpacks, combat belts, protective vests or Plate Carriers at regular intervals, into which various equipment pockets or other accessory pockets equipped with MOLLE or PALS compatible tapes can be threaded.

The main advantage of the MOLLE system is its flexibility. Users can add or remove gear pockets as needed and adjust their location. This enables the transport of goods needed for different tasks and the use of different equipment in one carrier.

The use of the MOLLE system has become more common in the armies of other countries as well as in various hobby and sports uses. It is a popular option for hikers, campers and backpackers, for example, because it enables goods to be transported efficiently and flexibly.

PALS (Pouch Attachment Ladder System)

It is a system designed specifically for equipment using MOLLE and PALS attachment systems. It is very popular especially in the military, police and emergency services because it allows for easy attachment and removal of gear and ensures that gear stays in place.

PALS consists of straps sewn to carriers and pockets for equipment and supplies attached to them. The straps are made of a durable material such as nylon and are usually 25 millimeters (1 inch) wide and are sewn into ”ladders” or “alleys” every 38 millimeters (1,5 inch). The interval between the straps is usually 25 millimeters (1 inch). The equipment pockets are attached to the PALS system with compatible straps usually using VELCRO or snap fasteners. The pockets can contain, for example, first aid supplies, weapons or electronics.

With PALS, the placement of equipment can be adapted to personal needs and it makes it easier to find equipment when needed. In addition, it enables changing and adding equipment easily without the need to open the entire contents of the backpack.

Summary

In summary, it can be said that MOLLE is a flexible and modular system of carrying equipment combined to the sewn PALS straps system that allows customization and adaptation according to the needs of the user. The systems enables easy attachment and removal of equipment, ensures that equipment stays in place, and makes it easier and faster to find equipment when needed. MOLLE and PALS systems are very popular in armies and for hobby and sports use. Today, many people use MOLLE and PALS system products in their everyday activities as well.

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What is VELCRO®?

VELCRO® stands for adhesive strip or burlap fastening. VELCRO® is a brand of a US company Velcro IP Holdings LLC, but similar products are also available from other manufacturers. However, today consumers also commonly use the name VELCRO for adhesive tapes from other manufacturers.

Adhesive stripe was invented in 1941 by Swiss engineer George de Mestral after burdocks stuck to his pants while walking a dog. After examining burdocks under a microscope, Mestral developed a adhesive strip, one side of which consisted of small hooks like a burdock and the other side of a soft loop-like material like cloth.

The advantages of adhesive stripe are easy and quick adjustability and the strength of the attachment. That's why velcro straps are especially used, for example, in military, hobby and outdoor equipment, where speed and adaptability are crucial.