Glossary of Tactical Gear

Tactical Gear: Specialized equipment built for military, law enforcement, and security professionals, now widely adopted by civilians. Carcajou Tactical designs field-tested, Canadian-made tactical gear for both professionals and serious enthusiasts.

Body Armor: Protective gear engineered to absorb or deflect ballistic or stab threats. Available in soft and hard armor, with NIJ-certified protection levels.

Tactical Vest: Load-bearing gear, often plate-compatible and MOLLE-integrated, used to carry mission-critical items. Every Carcajou Tactical vest is built for durability and configurability.

MOLLE (Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment): A customizable attachment system using heavy-duty PALS webbing to affix pouches and accessories for flexible mission setups.

PALS (Pouch Attachment Ladder System): The nylon webbing layout used in MOLLE gear, enabling secure and modular pouch placement.

IFAK (Individual First Aid Kit): Compact trauma kits designed for rapid deployment during medical emergencies in the field.

Flak Jacket: An early type of ballistic protection vest, dating back to WWII, made from ballistic nylon and metal plates, a precursor to modern body armor.

Kevlar: A high-strength aramid fiber introduced in the 1970s, known for its bullet-resistant properties. Used in soft body armor and tactical applications.

NIJ (National Institute of Justice): U.S. body that rates ballistic protection levels (e.g., Level IIIA, III, IV), ensuring performance standards for armor and equipment.

Hard Body Armor: Composed of ceramic or steel plates, designed to stop rifle rounds. Heavier and often used in high-threat environments.

Soft Body Armor: Lightweight and discreet, made from materials like Kevlar. Worn under uniforms and ideal for handgun-level protection.

Tactical Boots: Footwear engineered for rugged terrain. Features include slip-resistant soles, waterproofing, reinforced toe boxes, and shock absorption — all found in Carcajou-approved boots.

Duty Belt: A reinforced belt used to carry essentials such as firearms, CEWs, radios, and tools. Often integrated with MOLLE attachments.

CEW (Conducted Energy Weapon): A non-lethal self-defense weapon, such as a TASER, designed to induce neuromuscular incapacitation.

Concealment: The tactical use of camouflage or gear placement to reduce visibility and signature, crucial for recon and survival.

Ergonomic Features: Design elements that improve comfort, fit, and efficiency, especially for extended operations in the field.

Ripstop Nylon: A tear-resistant fabric commonly used in tactical vests, boonie hats, and pouches — known for durability and lightweight strength.

GORE-TEX: A waterproof and breathable membrane, ideal for keeping gear and apparel dry while remaining ventilated.

TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane): Used as a protective overlay on tactical boots and gear, enhancing abrasion resistance and structural integrity.

Vibram TC5+: A high-traction rubber compound used in premium outsoles, offering superior grip and durability in tactical and hiking footwear.

EVA Midsole: A shock-absorbing, lightweight foam midsole, often found in tactical and athletic boots for enhanced comfort and agility.

Ballistic Protection: The ability of gear or material to resist penetration from projectiles like bullets or shrapnel, based on level ratings.