MOLLE Panel Alternatives: Other Ways to Get the Same Result

Are there other ways to mount MOLLE gear?

Alternative mounting involves attaching MOLLE-compatible pouches directly to the vehicle’s existing interior surfaces or a secondary storage container without using a dedicated mounting panel. This can be done using heavy-duty industrial adhesives, 3M Dual Lock fasteners, or by bolting a smaller, localized bracket to a specific point on the vehicle’s frame.

This method is generally lower cost than buying a full panel because it eliminates the need for a large mounting surface. It works best when you only need to secure one or two items, such as a first-aid kit or a flashlight, rather than a full array of gear. This approach stops making sense when you need to mount multiple items in a large area, as the lack of a unified panel makes it difficult to keep gear organized and accessible.

Can I use modular storage containers instead?

Using modular storage containers involves placing gear inside a hard-sided box or a soft-sided bag that features MOLLE webbing on the exterior or interior. Instead of mounting gear to the vehicle’s surface, you mount the gear to the container, which can then be moved or stored in a different location.

The cost of this route is comparable to buying a panel, as you are essentially trading a mounting surface for a storage volume. This beats a MOLLE storage panel when you need to keep your gear contained and protected from dust or moisture, or when you need to move your entire setup between different vehicles. It stops making sense when the primary goal is “grab-and-go” access where you need to see and reach every item instantly without opening a lid.

Should I look for used MOLLE mounting hardware?

Looking for used MOLLE mounting hardware involves sourcing pre-owned panels or brackets from secondary marketplaces or overland forums. Because many enthusiasts upgrade their setups, there is a consistent flow of used hardware that has been well-maintained.

Buying used is often the most budget-friendly route, as it allows you to acquire high-quality, heavy-duty panels for a fraction of the original price. This is the best option for those who want a high-end brand like Rago Fabrication or Front Runner but want to avoid the “new” price tag. This route stops making sense when the shipping costs for a heavy metal panel outweigh the savings, or when the used item shows signs of significant vibration fatigue or mounting point misalignment.

Comparison of MOLLE mounting alternatives

When is buying a MOLLE storage panel the right choice?

Buying a dedicated MOLLE storage panel is the right choice when you require a permanent, high-density mounting surface for a large amount of gear. It is the correct choice if you need to maximize the utility of a flat surface, such as the side of a truck bed or a cargo van wall, where a single-point mount is insufficient. It is also the correct choice when you require a standardized, reliable surface that is guaranteed to accept any MOLLE-compatible pouch on the market without the risk of DIY mounting errors.

Reviewed by the TacticalVestPro editorial team. TacticalVestPro writes these guides from the 6 most-reviewed molle storage panel listings in our retail dataset, not from manufacturer copy.