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Over the past 2.5 years I have been designing a new vest. It has taken a lot of time, hard work, and energy but it is finally here. There are lots of vests on the market but I feel like we have added a solid option that is durable, comfortable, and well thought out. Please check it out and let me know what you think!

https://groundedbrand.com/products/impact-vest

Looks good, does it have striker pocket's ?

Pro's:  Looks like a good, functional, light-weight vest.  For a run 'n gun hunter, it looks much more appealing than some of the "it will carry the kitchen sink" vests available nowadays.   :icon_thumright:

Con's (potential):  One concern I personally would have is the zipper system shown,...  specifically, the zipper running so far down the side of the primary pockets.  I am prone enough to losing stuff as it is using compartments that only zip across the top.  I would be constantly worried about inadvertently leaving the zippers open.  On the other hand, I do like having all the compartments with zippers rather than buttons, latches, or velcro closures.    :)

(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50855761638_3e1092853b_o.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2ktX59w)

Quote from: Greg Massey on January 20, 2021, 10:01:02 AM
Looks good, does it have striker pocket's ?

Looks like there's spots for four pots and four strikers on that one side. I like that a lot! For a long time I've wanted a vest that was built just for pot people, like eight pots and 20 strikers I wish this vest had the same pocket layout on the other side.

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210120/1d89411d716f21be5e53650372dfab87.jpg)


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Glad the pictures in the pockets were added. Anytime I look at a vest and cannot tell the configuration and/or organization of the vest I am quickly turned off.

Looks like a nice vest to me.

Nice looking vest.  It appears to be well thought out and the quality looks good in the pics.  Good luck in your business venture!

Looks like a real nice vest.....best of luck

Looks like a nice thought out vest but for that kind of money you would think it would have a lifetime warranty

Quote from: davisd9 on January 20, 2021, 10:31:20 AM
Glad the pictures in the pockets were added. Anytime I look at a vest and cannot tell the configuration and/or organization of the vest I am quickly turned off.

X2 ... I'm also concerned about the small web straps holding the vest together ...

I certainly wouldn't mind testing it out for you...


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I'd like to try it

Looks good.. Cheers to selling and success!

Very nice looking vest, I do agree that zippers on both sides of a pocket are what I prefer instead of a full zip to open.

It would be nice to have an option of the vest minus the cushion. I have a hard time giving up my Hunt Comfort Fatboy and normally carry it in the bird pouch

Quote from: slicksbeagles1 on January 20, 2021, 12:22:41 PM
Looks like a nice thought out vest but for that kind of money you would think it would have a lifetime warranty

This is my take also. Double what I'd consider paying..  Good luck on a great vest, just not in my $ wheel house.

I'll admit, I tried to find something that I don't like about it... but I came up empty handed. 

I can see myself trying this one out. 

The only outstanding question I would have is regarding size.  I see it's adjustable but how does it fit small framed folks and women?   

Does the box call pocket have a sleeve to keep the paddle separate/quiet?

Looks like a nice vest. Just wondering if you considered a waist belt similar to a backpack. A good waist belt takes all the weight off the shoulders and transfers it to the hips. The original Cabelas tater vest had a great waist belt and one of the Tenzing vests did too. But those are both discontinued and I'm not aware of any other vest with a backpack style waist belt. It just seems that is something more people would want, but maybe it's just me.

Looks to be well thought out, now if you get into making a "Hip Pack" I'd be interested. I carry a turkey lounger so no seat pad needed and have a sling for toting a tom out so no game bag. Of course this is why they make the hip packs for some of us.

Here's my Badlands Hip Pack, worked great to begin with but the magnetic tube closures I lost some calls... I now have the Avian X Sling Pack, on my second year with that but still looking for something better.


MK M GOBL

Looks like a nice vest. Excuse MK Gobl, he must have thought you asked about his fanny pack.

Vest looks nice. Agree with others, for the money, need to stand behind your product. Looks like a new venture , only hats and vest shown on website, step up and offer a serious warranty. If your testing shows it holds up to 2 seasons of hard hunting, offer a 5 year guarantee against defects. Where are you making this vest? I am interested in buying.   

The two zippers in the back, what are they for?
Does it have loops to hold the hose of a hydration bladder on the shoulders?
I've never liked magnetic seats but sounds like this vest has overly heavy magnets. Strong enough it won't come off running through the woods?
What length box call can that pocket support?
How deep does the pocket go that crow call is sticking out of?
Price point is pretty high. Your competition at that price includes a kickstand.

Looks interesting to me. Just curious on one size, since I'm 6'5" 280. A lot of osfa doesn't work. And a video of the vest would be a big help.

Nice vest, most questions I seen have been asked, box call pocket length; paddle sleeve, zippers etc. My bigger concern is one size fits most, but then you offer a return, would hope so. I like vest to run big so can have light jacket under it for early spring hunts in the north. But like more open back for the later run and gunning, so I am hard to please, like most at that price. So I have your website bookmarked to watch for any new details down the road.

Looks good. Might have to wait until some other people can review it before buying it, but I like the way it looks.

Quote from: Greg Massey on January 20, 2021, 10:01:02 AM
Looks good, does it have striker pocket's ?

Hey Greg, thanks for the question. The striker go inside the pot call pocket. There are 4 striker sleeves inside that pocket. I did this so you would only have to open one compartment when getting a pot call out.

Drew

Quote from: Sixes on January 20, 2021, 07:48:04 PM
Very nice looking vest, I do agree that zippers on both sides of a pocket are what I prefer instead of a full zip to open.

It would be nice to have an option of the vest minus the cushion. I have a hard time giving up my Hunt Comfort Fatboy and normally carry it in the bird pouch

Thanks for the reply. I will take that into consideration on my next run!

Drew

Quote from: CALLM2U on January 20, 2021, 08:18:25 PM
I'll admit, I tried to find something that I don't like about it... but I came up empty handed. 

I can see myself trying this one out. 

The only outstanding question I would have is regarding size.  I see it's adjustable but how does it fit small framed folks and women?

That's a great question. I am 5,9 135lbs so call me a lightweight haha  :blob10: It fits me well. Much like a medium size tatr 2 or tatr 3. I knew coming into this that sizing would be a big concern for folks so I insisted on offer free returns. If you get it and don't like the size request a return label and send it back!

Quote from: Gooserbat on January 20, 2021, 09:23:44 PM
Does the box call pocket have a sleeve to keep the paddle separate/quiet?

Long story short no it does not have a sleeve to separate the lid and the box. This was a feature that was tossed around but ultimately did not make the cut. Its fully padded and elastic on the ends to hold the call in place.

Drew

Quote from: merriamsman on January 20, 2021, 09:45:54 PM
Looks like a nice vest. Just wondering if you considered a waist belt similar to a backpack. A good waist belt takes all the weight off the shoulders and transfers it to the hips. The original Cabelas tater vest had a great waist belt and one of the Tenzing vests did too. But those are both discontinued and I'm not aware of any other vest with a backpack style waist belt. It just seems that is something more people would want, but maybe it's just me.

That is something that was not considered for this vest. I appreciate the thought and will for sure think about adding that to products down the road!

Drew

Quote from: MK M GOBL on January 20, 2021, 10:18:37 PM
Looks to be well thought out, now if you get into making a "Hip Pack" I'd be interested. I carry a turkey lounger so no seat pad needed and have a sling for toting a tom out so no game bag. Of course this is why they make the hip packs for some of us.

Here's my Badlands Hip Pack, worked great to begin with but the magnetic tube closures I lost some calls... I now have the Avian X Sling Pack, on my second year with that but still looking for something better.


MK M GOBL

Thanks for the comments. What do you not like about the Avian X bag that you have been using?

Drew, do you plan to make any face masks? If so I have lots of inputs on that from which me and other hunters have discussed.

Is this vest made in America?

Looks nice! I like a lot about it.
2 main things are:
1) it's a strap style vest and has a game bag (rarely use one but if I ever do carry a decoy I can stuff it or extra clothes for cold days in there
2) it's pretty light weight and looks like it would be cooler on hot days.

Also, the padding inside that allows room for some air to circulate but still gives support and cushion if you're sitting against a tree for a long time, the pot call and striker pockets and storage, inside pockets for gloves, facemask, other things like a energy bar or snack.

2 main things I see that turn me off:
1) seat attachment
2) box call pocket and storage

Add a speed seat like the Tat'r 2 and I'd like it much more. Magnets are ok but not a fan of flopping seat in the instance you have to real quick run one down. I like a seat that's fast out of the way and ready to go when I need it but don't like em flopping when I have to move or slide around a tree to get in position on one. Seat looks nice and comfortable though!

Also, add a vertical long box sleeve on the right inside of the vest opposite of pot call side. I don't carry a long box all the time but when i do it would be great to have a spot for it. Add a box call silencer with the sleeve that separates the paddle again like the Tat'r 2 and it would have my attention!

One other thing that turns me off a little are those zippers. I do not like the ones on the Ol' Tom vests and tried liking them and these features remind me of those a lot. But, my go to vest is my older Tat'r 2 and it's not perfect by any means but out of all the vests I've tried (pretty much all) I'm fine the zippers on those pockets because it also has the little hook and loop on the pockets. So, sometimes I'll leave them half zipped with just the top open and if I'm prospecting I can slide my hand in real quick and grab a striker or pot call, or when I'm sitting I can just hook it and not worry about it being in the way and or stuff falling out.

Just my initial thoughts, would like to see one in person one day in the case I have to replace what's working now.

Quote from: Gobble! on January 21, 2021, 09:17:48 AM
The two zippers in the back, what are they for?
Does it have loops to hold the hose of a hydration bladder on the shoulders?
I've never liked magnetic seats but sounds like this vest has overly heavy magnets. Strong enough it won't come off running through the woods?
What length box call can that pocket support?
How deep does the pocket go that crow call is sticking out of?
Price point is pretty high. Your competition at that price includes a kickstand.

Thanks for the questions and comments. Yes there is a loop for the hydration pack to hang from. The longest box call that can be put into the box call sleeve is 9.25 inches long. The crow call pocket is 6inches deep.

Please let me know if you have other questions!
Drew

Quote from: haystaddle on January 21, 2021, 10:04:50 AM
Looks interesting to me. Just curious on one size, since I'm 6'5" 280. A lot of osfa doesn't work. And a video of the vest would be a big help.

Ive had that question a good bit. The adjustment is huge but I do know that it won't fit everyone. I do offer free returns so there should not be any hesitation to purchase it regard the size. If you don't like it let me know and I will get you a return label.

Quote from: Matt76cmich on January 22, 2021, 08:55:06 AM
Looks good. Might have to wait until some other people can review it before buying it, but I like the way it looks.

Thanks! I will have some videos coming out on it before too long. Hope you enjoy!

Drew

Quote from: davisd9 on January 22, 2021, 09:35:59 AM
Drew, do you plan to make any face masks? If so I have lots of inputs on that from which me and other hunters have discussed.

David, yes I am. Lets talk one day and discuss I would love some input on face masks.

Drew

Looks nice! I really like the fact that you can carry 4 pot calls as well. I too would like to see a video on it!

Quote from: FLGobstopper on January 22, 2021, 10:45:29 AM
Looks nice! I like a lot about it.
2 main things are:
1) it's a strap style vest and has a game bag (rarely use one but if I ever do carry a decoy I can stuff it or extra clothes for cold days in there
2) it's pretty light weight and looks like it would be cooler on hot days.

Also, the padding inside that allows room for some air to circulate but still gives support and cushion if you're sitting against a tree for a long time, the pot call and striker pockets and storage, inside pockets for gloves, facemask, other things like a energy bar or snack.

2 main things I see that turn me off:
1) seat attachment
2) box call pocket and storage

Add a speed seat like the Tat'r 2 and I'd like it much more. Magnets are ok but not a fan of flopping seat in the instance you have to real quick run one down. I like a seat that's fast out of the way and ready to go when I need it but don't like em flopping when I have to move or slide around a tree to get in position on one. Seat looks nice and comfortable though!

Also, add a vertical long box sleeve on the right inside of the vest opposite of pot call side. I don't carry a long box all the time but when i do it would be great to have a spot for it. Add a box call silencer with the sleeve that separates the paddle again like the Tat'r 2 and it would have my attention!

One other thing that turns me off a little are those zippers. I do not like the ones on the Ol' Tom vests and tried liking them and these features remind me of those a lot. But, my go to vest is my older Tat'r 2 and it's not perfect by any means but out of all the vests I've tried (pretty much all) I'm fine the zippers on those pockets because it also has the little hook and loop on the pockets. So, sometimes I'll leave them half zipped with just the top open and if I'm prospecting I can slide my hand in real quick and grab a striker or pot call, or when I'm sitting I can just hook it and not worry about it being in the way and or stuff falling out.

Just my initial thoughts, would like to see one in person one day in the case I have to replace what's working now.

Those are some awesome thoughts. I appreciate you sharing them! Thanks for the kind words regarding the vest.

On the speed seat. I agree 100 percent. I looked into putting it on this vest however Cabelas has a patent on it. Not only only that but actively pursued Dick's Sporting Goods in the past couple of years for infringement. So the speed seat was out for me. But I do agree with you that it is currently the best deployment system on the market.

To be honest I never really considered a long box but have had several people ask about that recently. It may be something that I look to incorporate into the next vest. I will also say that I know this vest is not for everyone as we all have our own preferences. Hopefully I can this feedback from you and others and produce more products to meet those preferences.

Drew

Looks like some great design features- what are the two zippers on the back for?

Quote from: turkeykiller22 on January 22, 2021, 09:36:14 PM

Quote from: FLGobstopper on January 22, 2021, 10:45:29 AM
Looks nice! I like a lot about it.
2 main things are:
1) it's a strap style vest and has a game bag (rarely use one but if I ever do carry a decoy I can stuff it or extra clothes for cold days in there
2) it's pretty light weight and looks like it would be cooler on hot days.

Also, the padding inside that allows room for some air to circulate but still gives support and cushion if you're sitting against a tree for a long time, the pot call and striker pockets and storage, inside pockets for gloves, facemask, other things like a energy bar or snack.

2 main things I see that turn me off:
1) seat attachment
2) box call pocket and storage

Add a speed seat like the Tat'r 2 and I'd like it much more. Magnets are ok but not a fan of flopping seat in the instance you have to real quick run one down. I like a seat that's fast out of the way and ready to go when I need it but don't like em flopping when I have to move or slide around a tree to get in position on one. Seat looks nice and comfortable though!

Also, add a vertical long box sleeve on the right inside of the vest opposite of pot call side. I don't carry a long box all the time but when i do it would be great to have a spot for it. Add a box call silencer with the sleeve that separates the paddle again like the Tat'r 2 and it would have my attention!

One other thing that turns me off a little are those zippers. I do not like the ones on the Ol' Tom vests and tried liking them and these features remind me of those a lot. But, my go to vest is my older Tat'r 2 and it's not perfect by any means but out of all the vests I've tried (pretty much all) I'm fine the zippers on those pockets because it also has the little hook and loop on the pockets. So, sometimes I'll leave them half zipped with just the top open and if I'm prospecting I can slide my hand in real quick and grab a striker or pot call, or when I'm sitting I can just hook it and not worry about it being in the way and or stuff falling out.

Just my initial thoughts, would like to see one in person one day in the case I have to replace what's working now.

Those are some awesome thoughts. I appreciate you sharing them! Thanks for the kind words regarding the vest.

On the speed seat. I agree 100 percent. I looked into putting it on this vest however Cabelas has a patent on it. Not only only that but actively pursued Dick's Sporting Goods in the past couple of years for infringement. So the speed seat was out for me. But I do agree with you that it is currently the best deployment system on the market.

To be honest I never really considered a long box but have had several people ask about that recently. It may be something that I look to incorporate into the next vest. I will also say that I know this vest is not for everyone as we all have our own preferences. Hopefully I can this feedback from you and others and produce more products to meet those preferences.

Drew

Drew, good morning. I have the new Badlands vest I bought last year. It has the Speed seat. They must have tweaked it to get around the patent, but It is the exact type of seat. Something to take a look at...good luck

Congrats Drew, you are already sold out of the Bottomland in your new vest line. Best of luck.....

Quote from: Bridger on January 23, 2021, 06:13:37 AM
Looks like some great design features- what are the two zippers on the back for?

Hey Bridger, one zipper is for the orange flag for when hunting on public land. The other zipper to for a water bladder. The bladder pocket also has a loop in to hang the bladder from.

Thanks!
Drew

Quote from: Tom007 on January 24, 2021, 05:15:07 PM
Congrats Drew, you are already sold out of the Bottomland in your new vest line. Best of luck.....

Thanks! I am very thankful for this opportunity and for the support that everyone has shown. It is very humbling to say the least.

Drew

Quote from: turkeykiller22 on January 24, 2021, 08:36:26 PM

Quote from: Bridger on January 23, 2021, 06:13:37 AM
Looks like some great design features- what are the two zippers on the back for?

Hey Bridger, one zipper is for the orange flag for when hunting on public land. The other zipper to for a water bladder. The bladder pocket also has a loop in to hang the bladder from.

Thanks!
Drew

Drew,

Thanks for the reply, I was hoping that was the answer.  This vest is really well thought out. Looking forward to checking it out in person.

-John

looks like a very nice vest....would even like to see it made a bit lighter for a run and gun hunter who might say only carry one or two pots

Good looking vest , any idea when you will have the bottom land pattern back in stock ?

 Very nice looking vest, I like it. There are a couple things I noticed that may be an issue for my style.

I set up against a large tree, typically my shoulders are touching the tree and my butt pushed away from the base of the tree. This allows me to get my knees higher and that acts as the perfect rest for my heavy gun. Makes my profile smaller and allows me to hide my call in my lap while calling.

With that being said: I would invert the nice large triangle padding in the back to have the larger piece at top. I would also move the two buckles holding the game bag to the back. Maybe push them more out to the side.

The pot call pockets may be small, not sure. I travel/hunt with my pot calls in a hamburger patty container, Rubbermaid, separated. Not sure if this would fit in those pockets. The striker pockets, are they snug enough that the striker doesn't rub the bottom of the pouch? The rubbing would cause them to smooth out and not be as effective calling. More sanding, my pot is at least 25 years old, the less sanding I do the better.

Again, I like this vest. I like the silicon bands on the shoulder straps! Seat looks comfy. Looks to be well built.
I will need a new vest in 1 or 2 more seasons and will be looking at these when the time comes!

Overall, Good job!