REVIEW: Ballistic Off-Body Bag (BOBB)

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Nobody will seriously deny that the tactical situation across Europe has significantly worsened in recent months. Against this background, the statement that our equipment is one of the few factors we can control in a combat situation is more relevant than ever. A new product from Las Vegas-based provider for tactical training and personal protection, "Progressive F.O.R.C.E. Concepts" (PFC), gives us a clear tactical advantage: The "Ballistic Off-Body Bag," or "BOBB" for short.

At first glance, a relatively inconspicuous, conventional shoulder bag, it conceals, in addition to an easily accessible vacuum-formed Boltaron holster, a ballistic protection package. Just moments before walking in the summer pedestrian zone in a t-shirt, shorts, and flip-flops, the wearer is able to engage in combat and protect the potentially lethal chest and abdomen ballistically within seconds in a threatening situation. This is what sets this holster combination apart from conventional concealed holsters. The ballistic component also allows the weapon carrier to take a much more offensive approach against an opponent, which would be prohibited without body protection.

Of course, the BOBB does not replace a classic protective vest. But let's be honest, who constantly wears a protective vest in extended personal protection, during covert operations, or in leisure time? These are the application scenarios where the Ballistic Off-Body Bag demonstrates its clear superiority over other concealed holster systems. And precisely these aspects can make the small but decisive difference, for instance, in an ongoing "Active Shooter" situation.

Access to the weapon is gained by pulling down the front element of the bag, which is secured with Velcro on three sides, forcefully from the handle at the top. This opens the two ballistic panels and exposes the holster. The weapon can be drawn in a modified "Cross Draw" without having to overcome further holster-mounted security features. This simple yet ingenious design also ensures that drawing the weapon does not take more time, even for the uninitiated, than with conventional concealed carry methods. On the contrary, with some practice, accessing the weapon can be done quicker than with many other concealed holsters.

When the opportunity arises during the firefight, the bag is brought to the center of the body with the support hand. Subsequently, the ballistic protection package is positioned over the chest and abdomen using the pull system on both sides of the carrying strap.

This consists of two panels classified as NIJ IIIA, roughly comparable to the German SK1, meaning it provides protection against soft-core handgun ammunition like full metal jacket or hollow point.

The holster is attached to interior MOLLE loops via screwed mounting brackets. It can also be independently replaced with holsters from other manufacturers, as long as their dimensions do not exceed the width of the bag. The Ballistic Off-Body Bag can be ordered with specially made holsters for any common handgun in the U.S. The designer/distributor Progressive F.O.R.C.E. Concepts draws the line at rather exotic models on the American market.

As an example, let's mention the Walther P99, now widely used by the police in several German states. It doesn't play a big role among professional American gun carriers. Therefore, PFC currently sees no need to offer the BOBB with a holster for the P99. However, the included holster can be easily removed and replaced with alternative options (as shown in the photo with a "Bianchi Model 82" attached using shortened plastic handcuffs).

Both sections of the bag feature elastic loops for up to 6 spare magazines and equipment. Furthermore, the bag has enough space to store materials for initial medical treatment, such as tourniquet, chest seal, nasopharyngeal airway, etc. This eliminates the need for carrying an additional IFAK (Individual First Aid Kit), always a problem during covert operations in civilian clothing.

Moreover, the front element has a generous interior Velcro area, allowing for the attachment of "Friend" identifiers ("Police," "MP," etc.).

All in all, an innovative, well-thought-out ballistic holster system with high tactical value for civilian personnel and private gun carriers.

For further information in English, visit the distributor's website: pfcloadout.com

For information in German, visit: www.Facebook.com/TacSurv

or contact via email: [email protected]

Photos: BERIS-Foto & Video, Tactical Survival Concepts (TacSurv); Text: TacSurv