I like everything about these shorts except for the elastic. If you are a 39 DO NOT order these in 38 and expect the elastic to fix the "problem". The elastic is positioned well forward so when the shorts expand they expand in the front and you get a crease across the front of your legs about crouch level.  Looks like crap.  I'd rather they had no elastic. Once you tighten your belt the elastic won't stretch anyway.  The good news is I now have extra motivation to lose some weight.

Update:  I couldn't wait to lose the weight so I ordered a size 40.  I would now give these shorts 5 stars.  And if you have the correct size for your body the elastic is perfectly placed.  I also ordered a size 40 in a 5.11 Taclite shorts.  The 24-7 has it all over the 5.11.  I carry a Ruger LCP in a DeSante holster in my front right pocket.  In the 5.11 I have major trouble getting the LCP out of the pocket.  With the 24-7 I have NO trouble.  The elastic lets the pocket expand at the top and I can easily draw and re-holster my LCP.
Also, the 24-7 has a knife pocket on each side of the shorts.  The 5.11 has a single knife pocket on the front of the right front pocket. With a knife in place it makes it even harder to draw your weapon.  When you put your hand in the pocket you feel the hard knife against the back of your hand.  The knife will also dig into anything you have in your right front pocket when you sit down.

5 stars for 24-7
3 stars for 5.11