I had ordered the Down Range Gear NOD (Night Observation Device) Retention Lanyard while surfing the internet shopping for items I thought I might need as I started preparing for the LMS Defense No-Light Skill Builder Course held at the Alliance PD range in Alliance, OH.
Down Range Gear Gen 3 NRL mounted to USGI helmet plate on MICH
Down Range Gear makes several items that are unique based on the owner’s experience as a Marine with combat service in Iraq. The NOD Retention Lanyard is designed to attach the NVG (Night Vision Goggle) tube to the helmet via a small side release buckle in case the mount inadvertently detaches from the helmet. They make several different versions depending on the type of helmet mounting plate. It attaches to the tube of the NVG using a tie wrap, on the helmet side a small piece of nylon with a slit is placed behind the mounting plate and sandwiched between the plate and helmet secured by the helmet plate mounting screw.
Gen 3 on the left and Gen 2 on the right- note difference in male and female end buckles
I ended up ordering from 2 different companies as 1 company did not have the color I wanted, when I received both items I realized they were slightly different. One being a Gen 2 and the second one being a Gen 3. Both were designed to be used with the standard issue USGI mounting plate. The differences are subtle but significant enough that I would not be able to use them interchangeably. I had intended to get 2 NRL’s so that I could mount one to an older PASGT helmet and the other to a MICH- in case I needed to switch helmets I would still have the retention ability.
The NRL’s were not that expensive and I chalked it up as a learning experience to contact the vendor before purchasing again in the future. When I posted an AAR (After Action Review) on Lightfighter.net, the owner of Down Range Gear contacted me offline with an offer to send me the correct versions at no charge. All he needed was an address, the type of mount I was using and what color I wanted.
Gen 2 NRL's mounted behind USGI mounting plates
I received two brand new Gen 2 NRL’s in the mail shortly thereafter and was able to change the one for the MICH so that both helmets now use the same NRL attachment system.
I am impressed by the quality of the product which fills a niche for those that need to secure sensitive items (serial numbered or just expensive) without having to resort to bailing wire or 550 paracord. The quick detach system also includes a slider that allows the user to clip the NRL to PALS webbing when not attached to the helmet.