New materials and technology often enable new innovations in design. A perfect example of this was a new Cordura laminate, called Squadron, paired with advancements in laser-cutting technology, which enabled new design capabilities that didn’t exist previously.
However, for us, when new materials and technologies are developed, they must be thoroughly tested and vetted in the backcountry. In the reality of real world conditions and hard use, new materials don’t always live up to their marketing claims.
Going back to 2018-2019, we started using Squadron for our K3 Crib Load Panel. After extensive internal testing, as well as seeing how this new material held up through hard-use by our customers’ that packed countless heavy loads with the K3 Crib Load Panel, we knew that we wanted to expand the use of Squadron as we designed and developed K4.
We started using this new laminate material and laser-cutting technology to create panels for the K4 Frame that increased the durability and performance of existing accessories, such as improved one-handed operation for the K4 Hipbelt Pouch, and also created opportunities to create new accessory designs, such as our K4 Nalgene Holder, K4 InReach Mini Holder, and K4 Elk Call Kit.
No only does our use of laser-cut MOLLE increase the performance and capabilities of our K4 Accessories, but it also extends the versatility of non-Exo accessories that can be used with our packs.
Want a handgun holster that works perfectly on our packs? Ivory Holsters has built an amazing solution for your sidearm.
Want a bear spray holster that mounts on the K4 Hipbelt? Our friends at FHF Gear and Marsupial have some great options for you.
Want to mount a quick-access medical or stop-the-bleed trauma kit? There are some great options from Live The Creed, and others.
With the new materials, new technology, and new design capabilities, the use of laser-cut MOLLE is an important, but understated advancement for K4 Pack Systems.