'Blacktalon' Combat Gloves – Protectorate of Lyras
Conceptualisation
“Blacktalon” is the Lyran Protectorate's range of all-purpose combat gloves. “Blacktalon” has been specifically designed for use in all forms and at all stages of conflict, and to be practical in any given combat-related situation, with particular note being paid to combat-effectiveness enhancement in close-quarters or hand-to-hand fighting. “Blacktalon” provides a number of alternate solutions that can be selected according to the theatre of operations ranging from the fingerless Type 1, to the arctic-condition optimised Type 4.
Background and development
Military forces the world over have utilised gloves for millenia, varying from those designed as heavily armoured gauntlets for protective purposes through to examples created for insulation from the elements. Recent experiences in combat operations have highlighted to the Lyran Protectorate the problems inherent in the lack of an appropriate high-grade, standardised combat glove for issue across all force elements. Individuals had often resorted to taking gloves from the bodies of fallen enemy in areas of operations where combat handware was inappropriate to the conditions.
Recognising the impact that this was having on combat performance, Field Marshal Ward lodged a development request to the Protectorate Research and Development Commission, for a range of combat gloves that would address this notable and hindering shortfall.
The result, after a 2 year investigation into international standards, a seven month international market survey and product investigation, and a 9 month design and manufacturing process, was 'Blacktalon'.
Design
'Blacktalon' Combat Gloves include a number of conventional and nonconventional design features. The palm is artesian table cut from a selected grade of water repellent kidskin, coupled with an interweave of xyalane-treated anciniform spidersilk. Kidskin is soft and supple while affording a high tear and abrasion resistance, with the spidersilk included for its phenomenal toughness-to-weight and toughness-to-volume properties, combined with its high degree of breathability and wearer comfort. The construction of the palm and fourchettes is ergonomically curved and extensively adjustable for an enhanced grip and tactility. The utilisation of additional cross-venting to the interweave further improves grip between the forefinger, middle finger and thumb.
The rear of the hand and cuff are knit from 9 oz Port Tal Nomex interlock fabric, designed at the PR&DC’s Fabric Research Centre. Utilising a 2-ply Nomex fabrication, 'Blacktalon' offers notable performance and function over other gloves in both durability and tactile control. The 2 ply design, with asymetric underweave, increases the seam integrity, durability and tactility by nearly 50%. The 9 oz Nomex interlock is overknit with an additional 7 oz custom blend of 80% flame retardant rayon and 20% Nomex for hand support and abrasion resistance. The adjustable, elasticised wrist keeps the glove snug, and prevents grit ingress.
An injection-moulded polymer knuckle protector is fitted as standard, and also includes four titanium inserts, designed to provide maximum damage when the gloves are used to deliver blows, while simultaneously absorbing the impact of the punch felt by the wearer. On the inside, the knuckle protector is padded, further increasing comfort, and reducing felt impact.
The back of finger joints are reinforced with additional kidskin/spidersilk weave, to further improve durability in arduous conditions.
Features
Extremely high durability
Flame resistant goatskin leather woven with xyalane-treated anciniform spidersilk
Offers protection in hazardous situations without compromising flexibility or finger dexterity
Additional cross-vented interweave grip system
Very high tactility
Injection-molded knuckle protector for superior impact and abrasion resistance
Padded knuckle area inside glove
Adjustable cuff – can be custom fitted for maximum comfort
Batches custom designed to match export military uniforms, as appropriate
Ergonomic finger design
Elasticised wrist
Kidskin reinforcement over the back of the finger joints and finger tips for added durability.
Construction: 9 oz. 2 ply Nomex, 7 oz. 80% FR Rayon/20% Nomex, Kidskin/Spidersilk weave.
Meets or surpasses all extant standards for flame- and fabric cut resistance.
Export
Type 1 is as detailed above, fingerless.
Type 2 is as detailed above, fingerless on index finger, middle finger and thumb.
Type 3 is fully fingered.
Type 4 is fully fingered, with additional insulation for use in cold conditions.
All types may be purchased at NS$80 per pair.
DPRs are available, for all four marks, at NS$1.5bn.
Purchases through Lyran Arms.
