Featured RE Factor Tactical’s Navigator Band David Reeder September 28, 2013 Join the Conversation At RECOIL, we review every product fairly and without bias. Making a purchase through one of our links may earn us a small commission, and helps support independent gun reviews. Learn More Find out more about how we test products. RE Factor Tactical, manufacturers of the “Survival Operator Band”, have a new 550-cord wristband out; this one features a Suunto compass. RE Factor Tactical is named for the “Relative Effectiveness” Factor used to articulate the relative power of an explosive's demolition power, measured in equivalent units of TNT. The name is not terribly surprising given the backgrounds of the principals involved in REFT (they are all former SOF personnel – the original Tactical Operator Band, for instance, was developed by a Green Beret SERE Level C graduate). The Navigator Band retails for $32.95. It is handmade, available in black, ranger green or tan and is made of “550” parachute cord. The plastic side release buckle that features a hidden handcuff key to be used in the event of “illegal restraint”. The compact compass itself features an illuminated dial and rotating bezel. It has been placed on the side of the band (not the top, watch-fashion) so it can be referenced without having to turn over the wrist. “We had a couple of customers asking about the reasoning behind the use of the Suunto over a cheaper model in our new Navigator Band. The reason is simple, Suunto makes some of the best navigation pieces in the world. This band is not a last ditch effort item and the Navigator Band is designed to allow you quick reference of direction while conducting Operations. Anyone who has spent time in a combat zone knows the importance of navigation and the ability to tell cardinal directions quickly and accurately. We placed the Suunto compass on the side of the band to allow you the ability to glance at the compass while holding a rifle, steering wheel or while running. Cheaper versions of the compass take a long time to find North and their North is usually off by quite a bit.” RE Factor Tactical Here is the handcuff key at work: You can purchase your REFT Navigator Band here. Why you can trust RECOIL Since our founding in 2012, RECOIL remains the premier firearms lifestyle publication for the modern shooting enthusiast. We deliver cutting-edge coverage of guns, gear, accessories and technology. We go beyond basic reviews, providing no B.S. buyer’s guides, hands-on testing and expert analysis on everything from firearms and survival equipment to watches and vehicles. Our reviewers are the backbone of our operation and come from diverse shooting backgrounds: Former law enforcement, military veterans, competitive shooters, seasoned hunters and plain old firearms enthusiasts. Furthermore, we’re not just gun experts, but dedicated journalists who adhere to the strictest standards of our profession. At RECOIL, editorial independence is the foundation of everything we publish and the cornerstone of reader trust. Our editors, writers and content creators make all editorial decisions independently, free from outside influence. That boils down to: advertisers don’t dictate our coverage, the outcomes of our reviews or what we recommend in our buyer’s guides. First and always, our commitment is to our audience—ensuring every review and article is accurate, unbiased, and driven by real-world experience. Whether you’re selecting your next firearm, upgrading your gear, or exploring the latest innovations in the shooting world, RECOIL provides the trusted insights you need to make informed decisions. Learn more about our Editorial Standards and how we review products. NEXT STEP: Download Your Free Target Pack from RECOILFor years, RECOIL magazine has treated its readers to a full-size (sometimes full color!) shooting target tucked into each big issue. Now we've compiled over 50 of our most popular targets into this one digital PDF download. From handgun drills to AR-15 practice, these 50+ targets have you covered. Print off as many as you like (ammo not included). Get your pack of 50 Print-at-Home targets when you subscribe to the RECOIL email newsletter. We'll send you weekly updates on guns, gear, industry news, and special offers from leading manufacturers - your guide to the firearms lifestyle.You want this. Trust Us.
