Does Tactipup actually fulfill on the promise of “over-built” tactical dog gear?
Fluffillow has found that, yes, Tactipup does fulfill on the promise of making reliable tactical gear for your dog. The company makes American-made collars, harnesses, leashes and more, which are designed specifically for working dogs and adventurous pets. This article delves into the practical details and real-world performance of their products.
Table of Contents
- Who is Tactipup and what do they offer?
- Tactical Dog Collars
- What We Think of Tactipup Tactical Dog Collars
- Tactical Harnesses and Leashes
- Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Tactipup and what do they offer?
Tactipup specializes in a variety of products designed for dogs, emphasizing durability, customization, and tactical utility.
Collars
Tactipup offers various types of tactical dog collars in multiple sizes (1-inch, 1.5-inch, and 2-inch collars), handle collars, Fi compatible collars (for the Fi GPS dog tracker), and collar accessories. These collars are designed with military-grade materials (webbing and metal) for durability and functionality, catering to the unique needs of working dogs. However, they also look very cool and are on-trend with tactical fashion thanks to TV shows like The Terminal List. Some collars come with personalization options, allowing for names and phone numbers to be embroidered directly onto the collar. All Tactipup dog collars are flat collars (no martingale collars), some with built-in handles in case you need to quickly secure your dog.
Leashes and Harnesses
Tactipup’s lineup also includes tactical harnesses, nylon leashes, and biothane leashes. The tactical harnesses are designed with top-mounted grab handles and sturdy buckles to keep dogs secure, especially in demanding environments. The harnesses are suitable for various sizes and breeds, offering features like easy attachment/detachment for leashes and personalized patches for customization.
Accessories
Beyond collars and leashes, Tactipup offers dog goggles, personalized dog patches, rewards and toys, gear for humans, and gift cards. These accessories complement their primary products, ensuring that dogs and their owners have everything they need for training, work, or leisure activities.
Tactical Dog Collars
A tactical collar is a type of dog collar designed for durability, functionality, and often for professional use with working dogs, such as those in police, military, search and rescue, and similar roles. Unlike standard pet collars, tactical collars are made from robust materials like heavy-duty nylon or other reinforced fabrics, which can withstand harsh conditions and rigorous activities. To help you with your buying decision, we recently created a round-up of the best tactical dog collars on the market.
Key Features of a Tactical Dog Collar
- Material: Typically made from strong materials that can endure tough environments without fraying or breaking. Materials like military-grade nylon are common.
- Hardware: Buckles and D-rings are usually made from metal (stainless steel or brass, for example) for added strength and durability. The hardware is designed to resist rust and corrosion.
- Adjustability: Many tactical collars offer adjustable sizes to ensure a snug and comfortable fit, which is crucial for the dog’s safety and comfort during activities.
- Handle: Some tactical collars include a control handle, allowing the handler to quickly and easily control or restrain the dog if needed. This feature is particularly useful in training or high-risk situations.
- Attachment Points: They may also feature attachment points for IDs, badges, or other equipment. Some come with Velcro panels for attaching patches or identification.
- Reflective or Glow-in-the-Dark Elements: For working dogs that operate in low-light conditions, these collars may have reflective stitching or glow-in-the-dark elements to enhance visibility.
What We Think of Tactipup Tactical Dog Collars
We tested Tactipup’s Tactical 1.5″ Dog Collar, chosen because it has received overwhelmingly positive reviews from customers.
Pros
During our testing, we found that the collar is extremely durable and well-made, with high-quality materials that can withstand rough play and outdoor adventures. The customizable options, including different camo patterns/colors, font colors, and the option to add a flag patch, allow pet owners to personalize the collar to their liking.
The collar fit comfortably with a secure closure, ensuring that our test subject stayed safe. The embroidery field for custom text is 4 inches long, allowing for personalization with multiple words if desired. We discovered that the font colors are vibrant and the stitching is precise, adding a touch of uniqueness to each collar.
The lead time for our product was 2 weeks, and we found it worth the wait based on the quality of the collar we received. The price point is also reasonable for a personalized, tactical dog collar of this caliber.
Cons
Overall, we agreed with positive reviews; however, we note some cons:
- If your collar is personalized with embroidery, there’s a chance the stitching can come loose with rough play or that it can fray
- The collar may feel too stiff for some dogs and be uncomfortable for them to wear
- Lead time can be up to 4 weeks, which is a long time to wait for some
Tactical Harnesses and Leashes
A tactical dog harness for a dog is designed to provide durability, control, and functionality, particularly for working dogs in fields such as law enforcement, military service, search and rescue, and other operational environments.
Key Features of a Tactical Dog Harness
- Material and Build: Tactical harnesses are typically made from strong, high-quality materials such as heavy-duty nylon or other robust fabrics that can withstand rigorous use. The construction is designed to offer extra strength and durability.
- Design Features: These harnesses often include multiple attachment points for leashes, tools, or gear. They might also feature padding for the dog’s comfort, adjustable straps for a secure fit, and reflective elements for visibility. The buckles are usually made from metal to ensure they don’t break easily under strain.
- Control and Safety: A tactical harness often includes a handle or multiple handles, allowing the handler to control or lift the dog quickly and efficiently in various situations. This feature is crucial for maintaining control in dynamic environments or when the dog is assisting with specific tasks.
- Customization: Many tactical harnesses come with options for personalization, such as patches or name tags that can be attached via Velcro. This is useful for identification and for indicating the dog’s role or any specific instructions that might be relevant in an operational setting.
- Specific Uses: They are especially beneficial for dogs that are involved in outdoor activities, extensive training sessions, or tasks that require a reliable and sturdy harness to manage the demands of the environment and the activity.
Nylon Leashes vs Biothane Leashes
Nylon tactical leashes have similar material and build and design features that include multiple attachment points, metal buckles, and reflective elements. Tactipup also offers a biothane leashes, which are great for muddy and/or wet walks.
Key Differences Between Nylon and Biothane
- Weather Resistance: Biothane performs better in various weather conditions, particularly in wet environments, as it does not absorb water. Nylon, while quick-drying, can become soggy and heavy when wet.
- Maintenance and Longevity: Biothane is easier to maintain and may last longer than nylon due to its resistance to water, odors, and general wear and tear.
- Aesthetic and Feel: Biothane has a smoother finish and can come in a variety of colors and finishes, mimicking the look of leather without the maintenance leather requires.
Cleaning a Tactipup Dog Collar
Items Needed to Clean a Tactipup Dog Collar
- One bowl of warm water
- Baking soda
- One small brush (toothbrush will work fine)
- One water absorbing towel
How to Clean the Collar: Step by Step
- Fill a bowl with warm water, dissolve 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and soak the collar for 15 minutes.
- After soaking the collar, rinse the collar to remove excess dirt before scrubbing.
- Scrub the collar with a brush, being careful around the embroidery.
- After scrubbing the collar, rinse thoroughly in clean warm water.
- Dry collar with a towel, making sure any metal hardware is completely dry.
- Allow the collar to dry overnight or until it is dry to the touch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Tactipup made in USA?
Yes, Tactipup products are manufactured in Florida, USA.
How can I ensure the Tactipup collar I order will fit my dog properly?
Follow the detailed measuring instructions provided on Tactipup’s website to choose the correct size for your dog’s collar, ensuring a snug and comfortable fit.
Are Tactipup products environmentally friendly?
Yes, Tactipup products are environmentally friendly as they use sustainable materials, energy-efficient manufacturing processes, and recyclable packaging to minimize their environmental impact.
Can I order Tactipup gear if I’m not in the United States?
Yes, you can order Tactipup gear internationally with a flat rate shipping fee. Customers may have to pay varying customs fees.
