Does the military still use paper maps? how do they store them? in hanging racks, aluminum or cardboard tubes?
We still use paper mapsWe have map rooms with huge storage draws so we can store them flat and well organizedMost people never see these librariesAnd we always bring paper maps on missions at least for back upWe have to have something to fall back on if the GPS fails or if the GPS is jammed And the maps don't come laminated, we laminate them.
Peter D has it rightNothing really all that special it is just a frame that is made of a higher quality aluminum than your typical 6061 al that is allNo carbon fiber at the sub $2000 price range anywayYou need to get upwards of $4k before you get carbon fiber in Mtn bikes generally.
