Viper Tactical Elite Jacket & Trousers

Viper are a sister company and the ‘Tactical Arm’ of Thatchreed Ltd. They have launched a glut of new products, many of which are available in their own V-Cam camouflage pattern which is similar to Multi-Cam. On test the Viper Tactical Elite Jacket and Trousers. Incidentally, while both garments complement each other, interestingly they aren’t manufactured from exactly the same material. This results in the jacket being of a slightly less rugged build but is still tough enough to be used for general purpose all-weather hunting.

TOP HALF

The jacket is manufactured from a water resistant micro shell material - (100% Nylon Taslon). The lightweight top has a relatively short waist length cut with a bungee adjustable waist. The adjustable peaked hood can be stashed away in the collar therefore when not deployed gives this section of the jacket extra padding and protection. It fastens up at the front with a two-way YKK zip and the cuffs are part elasticated including rubber strengthened Velcro strap adjusters.

For regulating body temperature underarm zippered vents are also incorporated into the build. Stowage is plentiful and well-appointed with a total of six zip-closed external pockets. The layout being one utility on the right sleeve, two on the left (including Velcro insignia pads), two hand-warmers and another on the left breast. There are also extra strengthening panels along the outer edge of the forearms and all zips have draw-cord pull assists.

BELOW THE WAIST

In contrast the trousers are manufactured from a harder wearing and heavier ‘ripstop’ material consisting of a 60/40% polycotton mix but also have more features and stowage. The high waistband features wide belt loops including Velcro strap side adjustment that compliments the front Velcro top fastening point with full zippered fly. This area is also slightly elasticated to offer a very comfortable fit and the trousers have a reinforced seat.

Stowage is catered for by two side handwarmer pockets, two rear button downs, two deep cargos with Velcro fasten down overflaps. Also on either leg there are smaller utility pockets with Velcro fasten down overflaps positioned on the front upper thigh and just above the ankle area. At this position there’s also Velcro fasten down ankle adjuster straps. While that sorts out stowage and security, cleverly integrated into the build are external ABS knee pads which also have substantial amounts of internal padding.

This section can be cinched close to the area they’re designed to protect by Velcro fasten down retention straps positioned to the side and outer edges of the trousers. Also to ensure an even more tailored fit internal knee pad adjuster straps are built into the inside of the hand-warmer pockets designed to raise or lower the ‘knee sections’ to suit your build. Double stitching is used in key ‘high stress’ areas of both garments and considering the amount of stowage both offer, particularly the trousers; you’ll not be found wanting in keeping smaller accessories close to hand.

PRICE: SRP£59.95 and £42.95 respectively
CONTACT: Thatchreed Ltd 01234 740327 www.viperkit.co.uk

FOR: Build quality, stowage, comfortable Effective camo pattern
AGAINST: Not a lot
VERDICT: A nice set of camos for all needs