Hello yall. Thanks for looking. Im a Fuel system tech on the F-16 in the ANG and recently learned that I will be deploying to Iraq this summer. Being this as it may I need some help in gear selection. I wont be carrying a weapon, just a vest and helmet. My question to you all is what do I need.

I posted this in the Deployed section also.  If that is against regs, then I'll be happy to remove one of my posts.

1. Do the issue glasses(Willy-X) hold up or is it advised to buy Oakleys'(Sun and balistic protection) and a set of googles(for sand storms).

2. Since I will be deploying in the summer is Under Armour needed(worth it).

3. Issue Boots- I have a pair of Thurgoods with steel toe. Are the Danners worth buying, or others?

4. Camel back- is it needed. I will be on a army base supporting our fighter wing, so will water be a problem that I would need to purchase one.

5. Ear protection - I was thinking about getting a set of Sordins. Granted these are probably not needed, but what is your opinion. I am a avid shooter, so it wouldnt be wastefull.

6. Gloves - the issue are black and already falling a part. Any recomendations? This is for aircraft work.

7. Maxpidition rolly polly/ D-rings for hanging shit on the Interceptor. Good idea or not?

8. Flash light- I have a G2 surfire. Up to snuff or would something better be advised.

9. Any thing else you can think of that would help out.

Thank you again for looking and helping out if you so choose to help.

RemMan

Sadly, I have not served in the military, so my limited experience with gear might not be the greatest information, but I hate seeing a post go with no replies. Especially a post made by someone headed to the box.

These are my suggestions based off of my research and experience:

1. Go with the Oakleys. You can get a killer discount if you contact Oakley directly.

2. It gets pretty cold in the Middle East, but since you're going in the summer, the UA HeatGear would probably be better. You can pick up a lower-end equivalent at Target or Wal-Mart for a fraction of the price.

3. No experience on the boots, so I couldn't tell you. Everyone will probably tell you to get Danners anyway.

4. From what I understand you should be issued two Camelbaks. I've read that a lot of guys don't use them because there is a ton of bottled water, which is apparently more convenient.

5. Don't know about the Ear Pro.

6. Batting gloves, Mechanix gloves, and gloves from Southwest Motorsports are highly regarded.

7.I'd suggest the Rolly Poly. I'm sure it will come in handy.

8. G2 should be enough. However, I understand that you don't usually need something blindingly bright, so you'll want to pick up some Photon LED's or the equivalent.

9. Read the post by Stephen, halfway down the page.


Edited to add: You'll want to have someone send you a buttload of chewing tobacco. It's like gold. You can trade it for anything.

Good luck. Be safe. Our prayers are with you.

Thank you I apreciate it.

RemMan

Absolutely get some good socks...Wigwams are my favorites.

I have a pair of Oakleys, and they have taken a beating and still look good.  I wouldn't hesitate to take them to the box.

I have a G2, and like it, but it has two downfalls...no cut-off switch, and no pocket clip.  If either of these are important to you, look at getting a E2.

Once again thank you.

RemMan

Hoplite hit most of it.

The Wiley X RFI (issue) tend to fog up in the heat, the foam gasket sealed to the eyeball is a bit interesting at times. I like the PSGs, anything that is ballistic proof will do, can be hard to get replacements, take a second set.

Loved my Bellevilles, they last and unless you have a weird size, can be exchanged regularly.

If I had a buck for every time somebody wanted my extra set of flight gloves.....they are cheap, exchangable, and last with care.

I had Under Armor, hated it, went back to the Soffee MCS standard, also didn't get stolen in the laundrey.

Moisture wicking socks, take plenty, you will wear them out twice as fast as you expect.

Had a G-2 as well, I now prefer something with a lockout cap, bought a Surefire C2 and love it with the K-3 LED Head.

Tactical Gear: Take hard look at what you will be really doing on a daily basis. The really cool tactical thigh and waist rig work great in the street, it's a killer in the Hummer, you can't get to anything and need a chest rig. I probably changed set-ups at least four times before I finally decided what worked for me.

Take care and be safe. hug.gif