What is "MOLLE"?

How Does it Work?

When it comes to most gear, functionality is the name of the game. Sure, style is vital, but a tactical backpack is only as functional as its items inside and on it; hence, utility always takes precedence over appearance. While most gear-hauling apparatuses (i.e., backpacks, duffel bags, rucksacks, etc.) can carry a certain amount, some have been provided with techniques to organize better and improve their baseline capacity, such as modularity systems.

There are many different modular systems on the market, some of which are proprietary and others that are more generally available. MOLLE is one of the most extensively used ones you may have heard of, especially if you've dabbled in the field of tactical pouch gear. This system, which was developed for military usage, is famous for many reasons, including (but not limited to) its general versatility, the extensive range of compatible gear, and more. If you've ever wondered what MOLLE is and how it works, you've come to the right spot because the following guide delves into the nitty-gritty of its history, functionality, and even modern uses.

Brief History of MOLLE Gear

It's no secret that when on official duty, military members wear a different uniform that is standardized (at least to some extent) for each service member. There are a variety of causes behind this. It makes it easier to discern between "friendlies" (allied forces) and hostiles, for starters. It also serves to unite members of a particular military staff in the same way that, say, a sports team's jerseys do. However, these uniforms serve a third, more practical purpose: uniformity makes it easier to outfit vast numbers of men with interchangeable gear, making the uniform a more versatile tool in the military's armory.

It's no secret that when on official duty, military members wear a different uniform that is standardized (at least to some extent) for each service member. There are a variety of causes behind this. It makes it easier to discern between "friendlies" (allied forces) and hostiles, for starters. It also serves to unite members of a particular military staff in the same way that, say, a sports team's jerseys do. However, these uniforms serve a third, more practical purpose: uniformity makes it easier to outfit vast numbers of men with interchangeable gear using tactical MOLLE pouch, making the uniform a more versatile tool in the military's armory.

MOLLE 

MOLLE (Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment) is a load-bearing modular system that enables the attachment (and subsequent customization) of various pieces of gear, small pouches, MOLLE straps, dump pouches, tactical bags, hydration compatible, utility pouches, radio pouches with adjustable shoulder strap, and other MOLLE backpack pouch, and so much more. MOLLE was initially designed for NATO armed forces, particularly the US and British armies. Still, it is currently used on a wide range of gear and equipment, including civilian products (meaning not just at surplus stores).

Pals

PALS (Pouch Attachment Ladder System) is the most defining and essential feature of anything claiming to be MOLLE compatible. When someone says "MOLLE grid," they're referring to PALS (Pouch Attachment Ladder System), which is the most defining and essential feature of anything claiming to be MOLLE compatible. Though it was initially designed for rucksacks, vests, body armor, helmets, and even vehicular organizational systems (such as those found hanging from the back of a vehicle's driver and passenger seat), the ladder webbing system is now an intrinsic part of all MOLLE-ready gear. Any MOLLE-ready pouches, packs, tools, and a variety of other sorts of equipment can be attached to the interwoven webbing, which is identified by sewn "loops."

Benefits of MOLLE pouch

Suppose you have a MOLLE backpack, for example. In that case, you can attach MOLLE-compatible knives (folding or fixed with a MOLLE-ready sheath), multi-tools (several are available from Leatherman, Gerber, and other brands), first-aid emergency triage kits, ammo pouches, food containers, and the list goes on and on. Only two factors limit the system: the number of MOLLE-ready modular attachments available and the amount of weight you can carry. Aside from that, there are many methods to make MOLLE work for you, whatever your carry needs and tastes are. Some of the most well-known and influential are listed here.

EDC

EDC: The main advantage of MOLLE in the EDC sector is the ability to customize your everyday backpack or tote. A MOLLE grid lets users carry more than the bag's internal capacity allows and can be customized for convenience, style, and even personal safety and self-defense (having an easily-accessed self-defense weapon can be hugely beneficial in a pinch). When used correctly, including a MOLLE system into your daily carry can be one of, if not the most, valuable tools in your armory.

Hunting

Hunting: Hunting is likely the second most obvious application for MOLLE, as it is closely related to tactical and military applications. However, it must be stated that a MOLLE modular system can be beneficial while hunting. For starters, pouches can hold extra ammunition and game-dressing instruments, such as a fixed blade knife that you won't want to keep inside your backpack after it's coated in viscera. However, it can also be used to support critical equipment easily accessible for better convenience.

Tactical

Tactical: MOLLE is the bread and butter of the tactical realm, as it was designed specifically for this purpose. That implies that the bulk of MOLLE-compatible pouches, equipment, and gadgets are designed for tactical use. Furthermore, the modular system was created with speed, organization, customization, and other factors in mind. As a result, tactical applications are the perfect fit for MOLLE's entire enchilada.

Outdoors

Outdoors: You don't have to think about soldier responsibilities to make good use of MOLLE. MOLLE modularity is employed to create a variety of outdoor gear, including hiking backpacks, off-roading storage systems, and more. And the only thing that limits you is your imagination. There are even MOLLE pouches built mainly to accommodate water bottles, allowing you to free up space inside your pack for extra gear, snacks, or whatever else you need.