Hill People Gear Snubby Kit Bag Review

Over the last couple-few years I haven't gone for a run without wearing my Hill People Gear Snubby Kit Bag on my chest. For me, it's how I like to carry my personal stuff when I am on a run, race, or jog.

It's kind of a unique bit of kit. It's a harness that securely holds a small, two-pocket, 500D Cordura, bag to my chest. It's always accessible and it never jostles or jounces.

The only thing I have against it is that nobody else wears anything like this when they run so the little pack stands out. It's different enough that people ask about it. 

I never know where to put my wallet, keys, and phone when I run. I tried SPIbelts and still love them but I was looking for something that kept my stuff both immediately available and also close enough that Bluetooth can clearly transmit from my phone to my wireless Bluetooth headsets.

My SpyderGrip system only lets me carry my phone comfortably and snugly between my shoulders.

I love running in my Black Diamond Magnum 16 Pack a lot because it's the perfect size, has a lot of cinching so there's never any flopping, and it accepts my CamelBak bladder and has fittings for the drinking hose and everything.

It's perfect but all the stuff I carry are on my back and not readily accessible. At the time, I also had my Virginia Concealed Carry permit and running armed was something I found compelling sometimes during late night and early morning runs.

Last year I ran a lot of 5ks very slowly: In Praise of Being Dead Last in a Race, Still Not Dead Last and I Gained a Wee Bit in Both Pace and Time, and My Last 5k in the Series was my Fastest by Half-a-Minute!

The bag is pretty small and solidly-built. You can get it coyote, ranger green, or foliage grey, which I have.  Here's my personal bag. It looks brand new. 

If you notice below, I bought the optional elastic stabilizer strap. It comes with the Runner's Kit Bag which is a little larger but just as low-profile. It's worth buying as it really keeps the kit snug during runs.  You'll see two plastic quick-release buckles below.

One is to release on of the H straps to make it easier to put on and take off the Snubby Kit Bag. The other quick release buckle is for the stabilizer strap. You can get in and out of it without them but it's much-appreciated. 

If you'll notice below, there is padding between the back of the pack and your chest. There's no air flow there so you'll always end a run or a walk with two sweaty squares on your chest. 

 The padding is good because it allows you to not care very much about the pointiness or bulk of the items in the pouch.

The two-pocket bag is connected to an H-harness and connected to a mesh nylon square in the back. There's plenty of breathability and the size of the patch does an amazing job of spreading any load.  It's also thin enough that it's comfortable when I  wear the Kit Bag underneath of my pack assortment of running-packs, including the chest strap.

Below, you'll see that there are two pockets. There's on front-zippered access flat pocket with two interior slot pockets with dummy cord loops above them and what Hill People Gear call their quick-access concealed pistol compartment but most of the time I just use it for additional storage. I put my phone in the the bottom, radius-zipped pocket and my bulky keys and wallet in the front-zippered slash pocket.

The so-called quick-access concealed pistol compartment zips all the way open, as you can see below, and has a strong piece of Velcro loop along the back so you can either affix a holster with Velcro back or you can use the dummy cord loop for other  retention options such as a MIC holster with paracord.

As you see below, I have a Kydex holster with a Velcro backing for my wee little Kel-Tek P32.

The snubby version of the Kit Bag maxes out, I think, with a Glock 26 or maybe a Glock 19-sized pistol, but that would surely Bogart all the bag's volume. Since the bag is so small, I prefer to be very careful with what I put in the bag. Also, I don't really carry anymore.  But here's what it looks like peeking in:

I considered whether to include my firearm in this article but I really didn't want to go there as firearms are very controversial and decided not to.

Either way, I might have bought the Snubby Kit Bag because it is a super-convenient way to conceal carry a very tiny pistol while running or being active; however, even in my post-concealed carry years, I am still in love with this kit bag.

In fact, I love these kit bags so much that I just ordered and will review soon the blaze orange Original Kit Bag version 2. It's got a lot more room and will work beautifully for things I do that require I keep stuff at-hand.

All About Hill People Gear (HPG)

Hill People Gear (HPG) is renowned for creating rugged, practical gear designed for outdoor enthusiasts, law enforcement, and anyone needing dependable equipment. Based in Colorado, HPG focuses on delivering solutions for “hands-free carry” with products like their Kit Bags, backpacks, and load-bearing systems. The company is known for its commitment to quality and durability, using high-strength materials like 500D Cordura to ensure their products withstand tough environments.

All About Kit Bags

The HPG Kit Bag series, including the Snubby Kit Bag, is specifically designed for carrying essentials close to the body. These bags are worn on the chest with an H-harness, allowing easy access to contents without disrupting other gear. Each model in the Kit Bag lineup varies in size and features, with options for concealed carry, storage organization, and different color choices to suit personal preferences and tactical requirements.

Off-Body Carry

Off-body carry offers a unique way to securely carry essential items, including firearms, when traditional waistband options aren’t practical. The Snubby Kit Bag from HPG is a popular choice for runners, hikers, and cyclists who need quick access to their gear but don’t want to carry it in pockets or a waistband holster. Off-body carry with a kit bag provides versatility and is ideal for those who value mobility and accessibility in active situations.

Hill People Gear Kit Bags: Full Lineup and Competitors

In this expanded review, we’ll delve deeper into the Hill People Gear (HPG) Kit Bag lineup, as well as explore notable competitors’ kit bags and chest rigs, offering a comprehensive guide for outdoor enthusiasts, runners, hikers, and everyday carry (EDC) aficionados.

Hill People Gear Kit Bag Lineup

HPG offers a variety of Kit Bags tailored to different activities and preferences. Here's a detailed list of the most popular options:

1. Snubby Kit Bag

   • Purpose: Minimalist, designed for runners or light-duty EDC.
   • Key Features: Compact size, dual-pocket design, and a quick-access concealed pistol compartment.
   • Ideal For: Runners, urban commuters, and those who prefer a low-profile bag.
   • Buy the Snubby Kit Bag.

2. Runner’s Kit Bag

   • Purpose: Lightweight, streamlined for running or fast-paced activities.
   • Key Features: Elastic stabilizer strap for secure fit, breathable harness system.
   • Ideal For: Trail runners and endurance athletes.
   • Buy the Runner’s Kit Bag.

3. Original Kit Bag

   • Purpose: Versatile, with ample storage for various outdoor and tactical needs.
   • Key Features: Larger capacity, multiple organization pockets, blaze orange variant for high visibility.
   • Ideal For: General hiking, camping, and tactical scenarios.
   • Buy the Original Kit Bag.

4. Recon Kit Bag

   • Purpose: Tactical use with enhanced MOLLE webbing compatibility.
   • Key Features: MOLLE panel for modular attachments, slim profile.
   • Ideal For: Law enforcement, military, or advanced outdoor users.
   • Buy the Recon Kit Bag.

5. Heavy Recon Kit Bag

   • Purpose: Combines storage and heavy-duty modularity.
   • Key Features: Extra capacity, robust harness system, reinforced material.
   • Ideal For: Extended outdoor expeditions.
   • Buy the Heavy Recon Kit Bag.

6. V2 Kit Bag Models

   • Purpose: Updated versions of Original, Snubby, and Runner's Kit Bags with refinements.
   • Key Features: Improved zippers, color options, and strap designs.
   • Ideal For: Users who prefer updated features.
   • Explore V2 Models.

Competitors’ Kit Bags and Chest Rigs

If you're exploring alternatives to HPG's Kit Bags, several brands offer comparable quality and features:

1. Mystery Ranch Chest Rig

• Purpose: Tactical, multi-purpose chest rig for versatile load-carrying.
• Key Features: PALS webbing, durable nylon material, integrated hydration sleeve.
• Ideal For: Tactical users and outdoor enthusiasts.
• Learn more at Mystery Ranch.

2. Maxpedition AGR Compact Chest Pack

• Purpose: Compact EDC chest pack with tactical styling.
• Key Features: Water-resistant construction, modular compatibility, ergonomic harness system.
• Ideal For: Urban and tactical users.
• Shop Maxpedition AGR.

3. Tasmanian Tiger Modular Front Seat Panel

• Purpose: Tactical chest rig with vehicle-compatible features.
• Key Features: MOLLE system, quick-detach buckles, robust material.
• Ideal For: Vehicle-based operations and outdoor activities.
• View Tasmanian Tiger products.

4. CrossFire Australia DG-3 Kit Bag

• Purpose: Rugged chest pack for outdoor adventurers.
• Key Features: Durable materials, expandable compartments, hydration compatibility.
• Ideal For: Hikers, campers, and military users.
• Visit CrossFire Australia.

5. Hazard 4 Frontline Pack

• Purpose: Advanced chest rig with modular storage options.
• Key Features: Quick-access compartments, MOLLE compatibility, lightweight design.
• Ideal For: Tactical and professional use.
• Shop Hazard 4.

6. Helikon-Tex Chest Pack Numbat

• Purpose: Minimalist chest pack with essential features.
• Key Features: Lightweight, integrated organizer, durable construction.
• Ideal For: Day hikes and light EDC.
• Explore Helikon-Tex.

7. Kifaru Koala Lite

• Purpose: Versatile chest rig for hunting and outdoor use.
• Key Features: Customizable storage, lightweight harness, camouflage options.
• Ideal For: Hunters and survivalists.
• Discover Kifaru Gear.

8. 5.11 Tactical Chest Rig

• Purpose: Multi-use chest rig for EDC and tactical operations.
• Key Features: High durability, MOLLE panels, padded shoulder straps.
• Ideal For: Tactical and urban use.
• Shop 5.11 Tactical.

9. Vanquest FTIM-5x7 Pack

• Purpose: Functional, compact pack for outdoor and urban carry.
• Key Features: Weather-resistant material, multi-compartment layout, MOLLE integration.
• Ideal For: EDC and short hikes.
• Learn more at Vanquest.

Choosing the Right Kit Bag or Chest Rig

When selecting the perfect kit bag or chest rig, consider the following factors:

1. Activity Type: Choose based on whether you'll be running, hiking, or using it for tactical purposes.
2. Capacity Needs: Decide how much storage space you require for essentials.
3. Comfort and Fit: Look for adjustable harness systems and breathable materials.
4. Durability: Opt for high-strength materials like Cordura or reinforced nylon.
5. Accessibility: Quick-access compartments and modularity can enhance usability.

Conclusion

Whether you're an avid runner, an outdoor enthusiast, or someone looking for a practical EDC solution, there's a chest rig or kit bag to suit your needs. The Hill People Gear Kit Bags stand out for their innovative design and rugged construction, while competitors like Mystery Ranch, Maxpedition, and Kifaru offer strong alternatives. Explore these options to find the ideal hands-free carry solution for your adventures.

Uses for HPG Kit Bags

HPG Kit Bags cater to a wide range of activities beyond just running or hiking. They are ideal for:

• Outdoor Recreation: Hiking, camping, and trail running.
• Professional Use: For law enforcement or fieldwork.
• Everyday Carry (EDC): As a versatile bag for urban and wilderness settings.

Features of the Snubby Kit Bag

The Snubby Kit Bag is a compact yet versatile option in the HPG Kit Bag lineup. Key features include:

• Dual Pocket Design: Organized compartments for easy access to essentials.
• 500D Cordura Construction: Durable, weather-resistant material.
• Quick-Access Pistol Compartment: Specifically designed for concealed carry (optional usage).

FAQ

Q: What is a Kit Bag?
A Kit Bag is a type of chest-mounted bag designed to hold essential items close to the body for easy access and hands-free carrying.

Q: What makes the Snubby Kit Bag different from other Kit Bags?
The Snubby Kit Bag is smaller and more compact, designed for minimalistic carry and high mobility, making it ideal for runners and hikers who need limited storage without bulk.

Q: Can I carry a pistol in the Kit Bag?
Yes, the Snubby Kit Bag includes a quick-access concealed compartment with Velcro backing to secure a holster if desired. However, it can also be used purely for storage.

Q: Is the Kit Bag waterproof?
While made from 500D Cordura, which is highly water-resistant, the Kit Bag is not fully waterproof. It can withstand light rain but isn’t designed for submersion.

Glossary of Terms

• 500D Cordura: A high-strength, durable nylon material used for its abrasion and tear resistance.
• Concealed Carry: The act of carrying a firearm discreetly, often for personal protection.
• EDC (Everyday Carry): Gear items carried daily for convenience, safety, or utility.
• Off-Body Carry: Carrying a firearm or essential items in a bag or other non-waistband location.
• Velcro: A fastening system using fabric with tiny hooks and loops for secure, quick-access closures.