Patrik Orcutt 12.16.24
First Spear is a company that had first come onto the tactical market back in 2010 and ever since has been producing high quality, American-made, Berry-compliant gear for the Special Operations community, Tier 1 Military, and Law Enforcement teams. Based outside of St. Louis, their team is made up of experienced industry professionals and former U.S. service members. “FirstSpear” is the translated namesake of the Primus Pilus, the Senior Centurion of a Roman Legion. FirstSpear dedicates our efforts to present-day Centurions, those willing to sacrifice to preserve our heritage and secure our future. It is an honor and a privilege to support those who serve at the tip of the spear! So, today we are going to take a look at one of their more simple yet important products in the First Spear Line One Belt constructed of a BioThane material and finished in a rich mahogany colorway.
First Spear provided this belt to me over a year ago and while I am allowed to keep this product indefinitely, it will not change my opinion on any of their current or future offerings. First Spear has not been allowed to preview this review prior to its publication. As I just mentioned I have been using this belt for over a year and it’s been out used a gunbelt, to many few social gatherings, and even a wedding.
First Spear Coverage on AllOutdoor
Specs – First Spear Line One Belt (BioThane) – Rich Mahogany
- Material – Made of urethane-covered nylon (BioThane)
- Buckle Material – Metal
- Width – Measures 1.5 inches (38mm)
- Color Options – Black, Grey, Brown, Tan
- MSRP – $87
- Country of Origin – USA
Biowhat? First Spear Line One Belt (BioThane) – Rich Mahogany
The First Spear Line One Belt features a minimalist yet highly functional design. It is constructed using BioThane and let’s talk about that material a bit more as prior to using this belt, I had no idea what this was. Biothane is a synthetic material made by coating a polyester or nylon webbing with a layer of thermoplastic or polyurethane, offering a durable and waterproof alternative to leather and other traditional materials. Known for its resilience, Biothane is resistant to wear, abrasion, water, and harsh weather, making it ideal for products like pet collars, leashes, harnesses, and Tactical Belts. Its advantages include being easy to clean, odor-resistant, flexible, and available in various colors and finishes for customization. However, it does lack the luxurious feel and natural aesthetics of leather, and over time, heavy use in extreme conditions might cause the outer coating to crack or degrade.
Comfort and Fit: First Spear Line One Belt (BioThane) – Rich Mahogany
Comfort is a critical factor for any belt, and the First Spear Line One Belt performs as you might expect in this regard. The BioThane material is flexible enough to contour to the user’s waist without compromising its structural integrity. Unlike traditional leather belts, the Line One Belt does not stretch or deform over time, maintaining a consistent fit. This also means the belt offers zero stretch which has become a bit of a fad with a few of the newer gunbelts hitting the market in the last few years. The buckle system allows for sizing adjustments, ensuring a snug fit but I have found that the buckle loves to get stuck when inserting it into the eyelet of the belt when dawning this belt. I suspect this is from the BioThane being relatively grippy.
Durability and Performance: First Spear Line One Belt (BioThane) – Rich Mahogany
Durability is where the First Spear Line One Belt truly shines. After a full year of wearing this belt there is very little wear on it with zero sag you see in traditional belts. That’s really all there is to say about this and moving on.
Practicality and Versatility: First Spear Line One Belt (BioThane) – Rich Mahogany
The First Spear Line One Belt’s versatility is one of its strongest attributes. It functions effectively as an everyday carry (EDC) belt, a duty belt for tactical applications, or a utility belt for outdoor adventures. The slim profile and neutral aesthetic make it suitable for pairing with casual or professional attire, while its rugged construction ensures it can handle the demands of heavy-duty use. Like mentioned before i even wore this belt to a friends wedding this past summer and I didn’t look out of place. I’m not sure if that says more about the belt or the wedding but regardless you can dress it up or down. One notable aspect of the belt is its compatibility with a variety of pouches and holsters. The BioThane material provides a sturdy platform for mounting gear, and its rigidity prevents sagging even when carrying heavier items.
Drawbacks and Limitations: First Spear Line One Belt (BioThane) – Rich Mahogany
While the First Spear Line One Belt excels in many areas, it is not without its shortcomings. One potential drawback is its price point. The belt is positioned in the premium segment, which may deter budget-conscious buyers. While the durability and performance justify the cost for many users, those with less demanding needs might find more affordable alternatives. A good quality nylon belt is about half the price of this belt, but it will wear out faster over time. I’d also like to see First Spear offer this belt with a few more buckle color options. I think a brown belt with brown hardware looks a bit silly and would be way better with gunmetal grey or black.
Conclusion: First Spear Line One Belt (BioThane) – Rich Mahogany
The First Spear Line One Belt is a high-performance belt that delivers on its promises of durability, practicality, and versatility. Its robust construction and low-maintenance design make it an excellent choice for a wide range of applications, from everyday wear to tactical and outdoor use. While the price and absence of a quick-release buckle may be drawbacks for some, I believe the belt’s overall quality and performance justify its price. If you want a high-quality bet that will last a long time and can be worn from the range, to the club, and then to church, this is a pretty good contender.
