Reading online reviews is akin to being led across the street wearing a blindfold. You instill a great deal of trust in a publication or a single critic.

They could give a product a five-star, standout review. Yet when your order comes in the mail, you find out it works better as a doorstop. And you already have one of those.

Before spending hard-earned cash, it’s only natural to seek out these second opinions. However, some opinions are more reputable than others. Why? The respected critics harbor a vast knowledge about products within their industries and easily become trusted sources.

So, where do you turn? Here’s a list of six best of the best.

Name: Bryan Black

Website: ITS TACTICAL

What he scopes: Knots, knots and more knots. His Knot of the Week feature ensures that no rope remains unknotted and no knot remains unearthed. Other reviews include more survival-type items.

Why we like him: His uber-polished site launched in early 2009, quickly beoming the destination for the tactical community. He even has his own iPhone app!

Most Popular Post: “40 Unique Places to Stash Firearms”

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Name: Jeffrey Jacobs

Website: Gear Geeks Review

What he scopes: A healthy diet of tactical gear, watches, weapon accessories, Maxpedition gear, military clothing and an assortment of other doodads.

Why we like him: This eight-year Marine Corps reserve veteran now works in armed security and is an outdoor enthusiast. So, he has gear experience on and off the clock.

Latest video:

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Name: John Weibull

Website: Tactical Gearhead

What he scopes: From boonies to coffee makers to tactical checkbook covers, random is the name of the game. If it’s tactical in the least bit, it’s getting reviewed.

Why we like him: Variety. With a new post about once a week, there’s a steady stream of new content and insights.

Latest video:

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Name: MM

Website: MilitaryMorons.com

What he scopes: About six times a month, he posts in-depth reviews of military footwear, apparel and gear.

Why we like him: Since he’s never had military or law enforcement experience, he gives a civilian perspective on military gear he likes. There’s rarely (if ever) a negative review. There’s also an awesome number of product photos on this site.

Latest Video:

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Name: Rob Curtis

Website: GearScout

What he scopes: Anything and everything military-related.

Why we like him: For more gear news and less opinion, Gear Scout is our milblog of choice with amazing high-def and original photography.

Best Tweet: @GearScout – Brits combine “custard” with Kevlar to make body armor 3x lighter, 10x tastier http://bit.ly/df0CxJ #Military #Gear Fri Jul 09 2010 17:46:59 (Central Daylight Time) via PEAR Services_Twitter

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Name: The Monkey

Website: MIL-SPEC MONKEY

What he scopes: Tactical wear gear, equipment, weapons and customized products.

Why we like him: His art and design background gives him heightened attention to details otherwise overlooked.

Latest video: