My Official Review of Nat's Molle Panel!

Who am I? Nobody! Why is it official? Because I said so! Don't like it? Oh well!

Alright everyone, this is for Nats Molle Panel that goes behind the rear sets of the Double Cabs, Linky here and here.

So my first impression?

F#CK YEA!

Why?

Well for starters I love being able to have a custom set up for what ever I choose. This allows me to use ANY molle system pouch/bag/accessory out there and its a pretty big market thanks to the US Military and Preppers. If theres not a pouch, bag, or accessory available you can SEW UP YOUR OWN! The possibilities are d@mn near endless!

As for the actual product from nat:

At first I was disappointed. For starters you have to drill into a brand new product because its not 100% plug and play. See photos below:

Stock panel:

Needed Holes for the Seat Latches:

___________________________________

Now that may have been a design choice incase you decide you are just going to take the seats out like some have, because you don't want extra holes in it if you don't need the latches. If thats the case then I have no idea how to secure this thing then because I did not get any hardware and the holes and slots didn't line up properly for my panel. But don't let that discourage you from getting one, it is a SOLID product and can be installed without the seats as others HAVE DONE IT I could not find an official write up for it though.

(threaded hole is BEHIND panel)

(behind panel again)

(a little low)

These panels give you AMPLE space behind the seats and hug the rear of the cab with anywhere from 1.5 to 1.75 inches to spare. Some have asked for a hinge down the bottom to use the space behind it, you could modify the panel yourself and install hinges if you know what your doing. This opens up a little more then 7" behind the seat and the rear of the cab with some wiggle room for bags (since the seats are made of fabric and flex)








One downside I have discovered is that since the panel is made of metal and is thicker then the webbing of the normal molle system straps you WILL NOT get a full molle weave lock with stock straps. This leaves the bottom of the pouches slightly floppy. You can easily remedy this again by using your ability to sew (or watch youtube and learn how to sew) slightly longer straps you make yourself to give you the extra length you need for a full weave lock. Again not a big enough deal IMO to warrant not getting the setup.


The panels are cut from Aluminum and come in a brushed aluminum finish you can leave it bare or paint it. They are very light and easy to maneuver into position with just one person. They are built solid and I have no worries of it crumpling or failing due to even the weight of an air compressor.


Some have said you will need Dynomat (or whatever brand you like) to deaden the sound from the rear seats. I have not found this to be the case in MY TRUCK, I also still have stock tires and left the seats installed. IF you remove the seats I would definitely suggest some sound deadening mats.

Lets Recap:

Pros:
Customizable,
Lightweight,
Strong Market for Pouches/Bags,
Built Solid,
Increases Storage Space Behind Seats Tenfold!

Cons:
Standard Molle System will need longer straps for a FULL WEAVE LOCK,
No Clear Mounting Points or Hardware,
Needs SLIGHT Modification if you plan on still using the back seats.

In my humble opinion the pros significantly outweigh the cons. It only took me about 45mins to install (not including painting) because I had to drill out holes for the seat latches and take it out and drill some more little by little until it lined up perfectly.

I hope this helps some of you on the fence about asking Nat for one.


Extra photos full the h3ll of it!




(IFAK one on each side of the truck)

 

Didn't realize there was enough space for ammo cans behind the rear seats. Thats awesome.

 

I'd say even the full size would fit. I'll try it and snap another photo

 

I need one of these badly, is nate making plans to have more made?

 

You'll have to ask him.

 

Also...



WIN!!!

 

You could rig a way to bolt them along the bottom if you wish.

 

Nice write up, thank you.

 

Thanks for the write up! I've seen these and have been on the fence. I think you just helped me make up my mind. I know things can't be perfect, and I usually customize thing I buy anyway so I know I'd be drilling once I buy, but this makes everything so much clearer.

 

Nice write-up. I agree the lack of mounting holes was a pain for me. However, I ended up doing it myself and it turned out fine. Just measure a bunch of times and go slow and just about anyone should be able to manage it. I have the JBL upgrade, so I had to have my panel cut to fit. I also had to trim the existing plastic bin that covered the subwoofer, in order to provide protection for the cone. When I go camping, I fold the seats down for the flat surface to pack things on top of, as well as easy access to the panel items. I didn't want anything punching holes in my cone or resting on the amp. It isn't the prettiest "custom" job, but it works for my needs.

 

Does the guy who made yours make them for the 3rd gen?

 

@SquirrelyPatriot Do you know of anyone that makes these? Im interested in doing this for my 3rd gen Tacoma

 

@Brenden J I don't know if it will fit a Gen 3, but there is a potential group buy in the future (one just finished) for the newer version of this panel.

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/molle-panel-2nd-group-buy-for-2nd-gen-dc-rear-seat.410254/