How to Use MOLLE Correctly
How MOLLE Makes Customizing Gear Easy
MOLLE is extremely popular among military personnel. This gear system offers an unmatched level of security and customization.
What is MOLLE – and what’s the best way to use it? We’ve answered all of your MOLLE-related questions below.
What is MOLLE and What Does It Stand For?
‘MOLLE’ stands for ‘Modular Lightweight Load-Carrying Equipment.’ Pronounced like the name ‘Molly,’ the term is used to describe a particular style of tactical equipment that is identifiable through its grid-shaped pattern of straps.
A tactical bag, for example, may be equipped with MOLLE pouches. This means the bag would have wide rows and columns with pouches. Gear can be strategically placed throughout these pouches for easy access.
Are MOLLE and PALS the Same Thing?
You may have heard MOLLE used interchangeably with the term ‘PALS.’ This term refers to the ‘Pouch Attachment Ladder System,’ and it describes the grid-shaped pattern of straps itself. The PALS system was actually patented by the United States Army Natick Soldier Research, Development and Engineering Center.
So, what’s the difference? PALS describes the grid system itself, while MOLLE describes the gear that contains the grid.
How Does MOLLE Work?
MOLLE straps allow you to tuck small or medium-sized pieces of gear on your bag by weaving the straps through the grid. By tucking each piece carefully, your gear will remain secure while still being fairly easy to access – that’s why MOLLE is so popular.
MOLLE uses webbing that is heavy-duty and made from Nylon, so you can rest assured that your gear will stay secure.
You’ll find plenty of gear that is explicitly describes as MOLLE-compatible. This means that the gear was designed to fit easily into the straps of MOLLE gear.
Why MOLLE is Great For Everyday Carry
‘Everyday Carry,’ or ‘EDC,’ is a term used to describe gear that a tactical professional brings everywhere they go. This umbrella term might include your weaponry, flashlight, medical kit, or anything else that comes on every trip, every mission, and every outing.
MOLLE is a particularly helpful system when assembling your EDC equipment. If you know your regular EDC rollout of gear, you can keep it attached in the same space each time, rather than having to repack it in a complex bag with confusing pockets and straps. If you want to add or remove an item, you can simply remove it from the MOLLE straps without having to change any of your other gear.
Plus, if your EDC is MOLLE-compatible, you’ll have an even easier time getting organized for your tactical adventures.
What Accessories are Compatible With MOLLE?
One of the great things about MOLLE is that you’ll come across countless pieces of gear that are perfectly compatible. Below, we’ve suggested some of the best gear you might find.
Radio Pouch
Communications gear is crucial. In high-calibre missions, it’s the only point of contact you might have with your team. For that reason, you can’t afford to drop or lose your radio gear. MOLLE radio pouches have heavy-duty construction and securely latch onto your tactical bag.
Magazine Pouch
It can be tricky trying to determine the best place to keep your extra rounds of ammunition. Thanks to MOLLE-compatible magazine pouches, you’ll be able to store your magazines safely without having to worry about them coming loose or getting lost.
Holster
Most officers and military personnel keep their holster around their waist or by their knee. If quick access isn’t necessary at all times, you might consider getting a MOLLE-compatible holster for safe storage.
Storage Pouches
MOLLE makes storage easy. Storage pouches are sleek are robust, and can fit anywhere on your pack. For small items that are easy to lose or don’t have a specific home, we can’t recommend MOLLE-compatible storage pouches enough.
Canteen Carrier
Staying hydrated and well-fed on exhausting missions is a must. A MOLLE-compatible canteen carrier provides comfort and ease and makes it easy to fuel yourself
First Aid Kit
We recommend packing a complete first aid kit and learning how and when to use each piece. Attaching your gear to the straps of a MOLLE bag will make accessing that gear much easier.
How to Attach MOLLE Components
Fortunately, using MOLLE is pretty easy. Here’s a quick guide if you’re not sure what to do:
- First, make a plan. Use the grid system to your advantage and decide how each item should be spaced out. Consider aspects like size, weight, and ease of access.
- Next, insert each strap through the top row of webbing. Pull each strap through all the way to secure the pouch to the top row.
- Don't forget to weave the straps through the webbing back to the pouch.
- Then, continue interlocking so each side is covered.
- Finally, snap everything in. After that, test your gear to see if it is secure and won't fall off. Tighten anything that is loose.
READ MORE: Proper Cleaning Techniques for Tactical Gear
Conclusion
It's no surprise why MOLLE is so popular among tactical personnel. It's easy to use and customize, and it's reliable for even the most intense excursions.
At PSP Corp, we have some of the best MOLLE-compatible gear you can find. From bags to pouches to individual pieces of gear, we've got everything you're looking for.
