BLACKHAWK - "World's Finest Gear"

From humble origins in 1993 as a two-man operation in CEO Mike Noell's garage, to 250 employees and 5 manufacturing facilities later, BLACKHAWK has quickly gained status as a world leader in tactical equipment for military and law enforcement professionals. From garage to worldwide operation, it's been BLACKHAWK's mission to design, manufacture and globally distribute the "World's Finest Gear".

BLACKHAWK's product lineup includes vests, holsters, knives, weapon accessories, harnesses and rappelling equipment (and recently the acquisition of Knoxx Stocks) – all sold via catalog and internet. And with unparalleled dedication to excellence through teamwork, performance and service, their mission has served to enhance operator efficiency, confidence and mission completion in every theatre around the world.

A heady accomplishment, but one that Mike, a former U.S. Navy SEAL, easily added to a long list of others during a very distinguished career. Mike is the only person in history to receive both the "Honor Man" award for top achiever in overall academic and field performance during his training with BUD/S, and the "Fire in the Gut" award given to him for exemplary effort by his fellow team members.

A Broken Strap Inspires a Soldier

BLACKHAWK was born in an unexpected place... Iraq. While Mike was serving his country in Northern Iraq in 1990-1991, he had an experience that left him wanting more out of his equipment.

While carrying 100 lbs. of gear through an enemy minefield, a strap on his pack broke, causing him to dump his gear onto the mine-ridden ground. Mike vowed that if he got out of that alive, he was going to make his own gear, gear that could save lives, not cost them.

After completing his tour of duty, Mike started the ball rolling, making and selling the gear he wished he had had while still in the SEALs. By combining research and development, collaboration from soldiers in the field, a top-notch design group, an in-house production department and the best materials available, BLACKHAWK quickly rose through the ranks to become a well-respected and world-renowned company.

Innovation and quality go hand in hand at BLACKHAWK. The company encourages customer feedback as well as employing research and development groups to constantly improve their product and create new ones. Whether it's hydration systems, entry tools, holsters, gloves, gear bags, flashlights or knives, BLACKHAWK sets the standard by which everything else is and will be judged.

For the best selection of BLACKHAWK, look to CHIEF – your BLACKHAWK authority.

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