Armory Sponsor
Posted: 8/6/2015 5:21:05 PM EDT
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Okay so here's the deal. I'm thirty years old and have only recently gotten into guns/shooting over the last five years or so. I was never in the service, and do not want to appear like I was. I have a great respect for our service members and if I could go back to when I was younger I would have enlisted in High School.
Anyway, I want to get some gear but don't want to be mistaken as a former "operator". Those guys have some cool sh*t and they've earned the right to look bada$$... I have not. I just need some suggestions on what would be functional for shooting competitions (IDPA/USPSA/3GUN) and would also double for hunting or emergency scenarios. I'm open to suggestions in all categories, packs, belts, vests, boots, the whole kit. I just don't want to look like some clown that is trying too hard. Thanks in advance. |
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Okay so here's the deal. I'm thirty years old and have only recently gotten into guns/shooting over the last five years or so. I was never in the service, and do not want to appear like I was. I have a great respect for our service members and if I could go back to when I was younger I would have enlisted in High School. Anyway, I want to get some gear but don't want to be mistaken as a former "operator". Those guys have some cool sh*t and they've earned the right to look bada$$... I have not. I just need some suggestions on what would be functional for shooting competitions (IDPA/USPSA/3GUN) and would also double for hunting or emergency scenarios. I'm open to suggestions in all categories, packs, belts, vests, boots, the whole kit. I just don't want to look like some clown that is trying too hard. Thanks in advance. I wouldn't worry about that. Good gear is good gear. Wouldn't sacrifice good quality because your worried about that. |
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I wouldn't worry about that. Good gear is good gear. Wouldn't sacrifice good quality because your worried about that. Quoted:
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Okay so here's the deal. I'm thirty years old and have only recently gotten into guns/shooting over the last five years or so. I was never in the service, and do not want to appear like I was. I have a great respect for our service members and if I could go back to when I was younger I would have enlisted in High School. Anyway, I want to get some gear but don't want to be mistaken as a former "operator". Those guys have some cool sh*t and they've earned the right to look bada$$... I have not. I just need some suggestions on what would be functional for shooting competitions (IDPA/USPSA/3GUN) and would also double for hunting or emergency scenarios. I'm open to suggestions in all categories, packs, belts, vests, boots, the whole kit. I just don't want to look like some clown that is trying too hard. Thanks in advance. I wouldn't worry about that. Good gear is good gear. Wouldn't sacrifice good quality because your worried about that. Ditto, I used to be the same way but I realized that they wear that shit for a reason. I didn't realize that till after I wasted money, so buy some good gear from the get go. |
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Pants/Shirts - comfortable shit, preferably stuff that's moisture wicking (anything not cotton basically). Buy 5.11 if you want but many other brands work just as well and don't scream tacticool. Shoes - really up to the individual and their feet. Solomon makes good stuff, so does Merrell Belt - You can get a riggers belt or you can get a competition gun belt Hat - don't need to be a super duper operator cap with velcro for days. Your favorite baseball cap, or even a boonie/tilley hat will work well. Really anything to help keep the sun off of you Eyepro - get some good ballistic lensed glasses. I like Oakleys but I also get them for pretty cheap so I'm biased. Earpro - Peltor Tac6 are good, Howard Leight Sport Impacts are also good if they fit your head. the rest of the stuff, you have to figure out for yourself based on your needs. Your post isn't specific enough for anyone to really give you any meaningful suggestions beyond "I like XYZ brand/item, buy that!" The only way you show up looking like a try hard/poser is if you're wearing combat pants and shirt with a plate carrier/ with gobs of useless crap on it that will only get in your way, topped off with an operator cap, beard, and slathered with a nice collection of motto kill patches or fake team roster patches. Of course then your use of proper vernacular and lingo better match your equally ridiculous appearance to really seal in the ensemble. |
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I wouldn't worry about that. Good gear is good gear. Wouldn't sacrifice good quality because your worried about that. Bingo. As long as your setup is functional and doesnt have a myriad of hoosie doesits and zippidy doos that have no application for you all is well. |
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I wouldn't worry about that. Good gear is good gear. Wouldn't sacrifice good quality because your worried about that. Quoted:
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Okay so here's the deal. I'm thirty years old and have only recently gotten into guns/shooting over the last five years or so. I was never in the service, and do not want to appear like I was. I have a great respect for our service members and if I could go back to when I was younger I would have enlisted in High School. Anyway, I want to get some gear but don't want to be mistaken as a former "operator". Those guys have some cool sh*t and they've earned the right to look bada$$... I have not. I just need some suggestions on what would be functional for shooting competitions (IDPA/USPSA/3GUN) and would also double for hunting or emergency scenarios. I'm open to suggestions in all categories, packs, belts, vests, boots, the whole kit. I just don't want to look like some clown that is trying too hard. Thanks in advance. I wouldn't worry about that. Good gear is good gear. Wouldn't sacrifice good quality because your worried about that. This...those guys use that stuff for a reason. Go with solid colors instead of camo if it makes you feel better. |
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Bingo. As long as your setup is functional and doesnt have a myriad of hoosie doesits and zippidy doos that have no application for you all is well. Quoted:
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I wouldn't worry about that. Good gear is good gear. Wouldn't sacrifice good quality because your worried about that. Bingo. As long as your setup is functional and doesnt have a myriad of hoosie doesits and zippidy doos that have no application for you all is well. But hoosie doesits and zippidy doos are so operator 
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This...those guys use that stuff for a reason. Go with solid colors instead of camo if it makes you feel better. Quoted:
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Okay so here's the deal. I'm thirty years old and have only recently gotten into guns/shooting over the last five years or so. I was never in the service, and do not want to appear like I was. I have a great respect for our service members and if I could go back to when I was younger I would have enlisted in High School. Anyway, I want to get some gear but don't want to be mistaken as a former "operator". Those guys have some cool sh*t and they've earned the right to look bada$$... I have not. I just need some suggestions on what would be functional for shooting competitions (IDPA/USPSA/3GUN) and would also double for hunting or emergency scenarios. I'm open to suggestions in all categories, packs, belts, vests, boots, the whole kit. I just don't want to look like some clown that is trying too hard. Thanks in advance. I wouldn't worry about that. Good gear is good gear. Wouldn't sacrifice good quality because your worried about that. This...those guys use that stuff for a reason. Go with solid colors instead of camo if it makes you feel better. And, for the love of all that is considered Holy, please don't feel the need to cover every square inch of velcro with morale patches. A flag or two is one thing. But, looking like you ran through the Mil-Spec Monkey warehouse wearing David Letterman's velcro suit is another thing. |
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Okay so here's the deal. I'm thirty years old and have only recently gotten into guns/shooting over the last five years or so. I was never in the service, and do not want to appear like I was. I have a great respect for our service members and if I could go back to when I was younger I would have enlisted in High School. Anyway, I want to get some gear but don't want to be mistaken as a former "operator". Those guys have some cool sh*t and they've earned the right to look bada$$... I have not. I just need some suggestions on what would be functional for shooting competitions (IDPA/USPSA/3GUN) and would also double for hunting or emergency scenarios. I'm open to suggestions in all categories, packs, belts, vests, boots, the whole kit. I just don't want to look like some clown that is trying too hard. Thanks in advance. I agree with others, don't sacrifice quality, they wear certain things because they're great. If you really wanted, you can get your gear in less 'military' colors, like multicam and such. Maybe stick with black and ranger green type colorations? Packs wise, I like the Goruck backpacks, they come in various sizes, super durable, come in civilian friendly black, or other colors if you want. They dont scream super tactical. I like the way it's organized on the inside, just a big open pack, with minimal organization. Alternatively, if you don't want to spend that much, the Tactical Tailor Urban Operator is another high quality pack that I enjoy using every now and then. Another alternative, the Tactical Tailor Removable Operator pack (or fight light version) is good, the milspec Monkey variant or grey ghost variant's of the same packs are good smaller options as well. Belt wise, I used to wear a 1.75 inch tactical tailor riggers belt, but didn't like how the buckle dug into me. Since then, I went with a more low profile 1.5 inch belt from Vagabond Sitching: http://www.vagabondstitchingcompany.aradium.com/ I dont remember which version it is. But it's plenty stiff enough to hold a holster and your pants up. Never had any problems with it. Though there are plenty of belt makers on the market, it seems like every company has their own take on the rigger/cobra belt. Though, if you're looking for a MOLLE 'war/battle' belt, I look no further than the HSGI sure-grip belt. Super solid, doesnt sag even with a good amount of load on it, holster/mags/etc. Gear wise: Chest rig:The Haley Strategic D3 chest rig is a good rig for an all-in-one solution (If you don't want to piece together a kit) for rifle/pistol, and even shotgun, if you place a shotgun shell card in the 'Stuff-it' pouch. It's low-profile-ish, and gives you access to 4 rifle (expandable to 6), 2 pistol, plus some accessory pouches for other crap. Otherwise, i've always been happy with the Tactical Tailor MAV series, either their regular MAV, 2 piece MAV, or mini-MAV (make sure to get the fight light one, far superior to the classic one). That'll allow you to piece together your kit and adding pouches based on your needs. If you're new to MOLLE gear, the MAV isn't a bad place to start. Holster: There are many good ones on the market, my personal favorites are the Safariland ALS / 7TS ALS holsters. Reasonably priced, really durable and quick, with some retention built in. Comes in many different flavors depending on your handgun. Magazine pouches: Depending on what you're running, Tactical Tailor is a good place to start for tactical nylons. They have single magazine pouches with open tops and bungees, flapped double magazine pouches, etc. Choose your poison. Otherwise, if you want to spend a little more, the HSGI Taco pouches are a good universal solution for many magazines, and allow for very quick reloads. Anyway, I could talk gear all day. It's 2AM and i'll leave you with my sleep deprived ramblings. |
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Welcome to the gear madness (second stage of black rifle disease, I think...).
Just a couple of suggestions. First, really focus in on what you want to use this stuff for before opening up the cash flow (and it will flow). Personally, I made the mistake of jumping in thinking more .mil (force of habit) than civilian situations, and have now swung the other way. Specifically, I started getting gear that looked more like I was going back on deployment (impractical in my AOR), and only later settled on wanting a more low-pro setup that is primarily for home protection and evac of the family during natural/man-made crisis, and ended up paying a premium for the mind-shift when I could have avoided it by putting a little more thought into it initially. Secondly, versatility/modularity is a good option when talking gear. You have more options with a slick plate carrier and a chest rig that attaches to it then with an all-in-one plate carrier, for example. Lastly, timing can be critical on saving cash. Some of the top brands have consistent sales that can be sizeable (like Tactical Tailor's Founder's Day sale, where all gear is 25-40% off), especially around the holidays. So put some thought into what you specifically want it to do and not do, shop around for the gear that meets that specific requirement, and then try to resist the "buy" urge until a good sale comes along (Black Friday will be here before we know it). And again, welcome! |
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No need to worry about looking like a veteran, use the best gear possible. As long as you aren't going around wearing patches or metals you didn't earn and telling people you are a ex-seal no one will care. I have some top of the like gear, including NV goggles, ops-core helmets, Crye camo, etc... And have never once had someone get upset that I was not in the military, but I do have people asking about my gear, what it cost and saying how impressive It is.
As for actual gear I would start with some tactical clothing like Crye, 511 or whatever clothing that is flexible, durable and has lots of pockets. I would skip the chest rig and go right to the plate carrier with a couple mag pouches, fold up dump pouch and a small IFAK. Steel plates if you're on a tight budget but ceramic is better if you have the cash. That should cover you for most run and gun shoots and can easily be tossed on for home defense. Obviously there is way more gear out there and the limit is only your budget, I probably have as much in gear as I do firearm. It is expensive but if you ever Do have to defend yourself you will be glad you passed up buying that 3rd or 4th ar15 and instead bought a plate carrier |
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Welcome to the gear madness (second stage of black rifle disease, I think...). Just a couple of suggestions. First, really focus in on what you want to use this stuff for before opening up the cash flow (and it will flow). Personally, I made the mistake of jumping in thinking more .mil (force of habit) than civilian situations, and have now swung the other way. Specifically, I started getting gear that looked more like I was going back on deployment (impractical in my AOR), and only later settled on wanting a more low-pro setup that is primarily for home protection and evac of the family during natural/man-made crisis, and ended up paying a premium for the mind-shift when I could have avoided it by putting a little more thought into it initially. Secondly, versatility/modularity is a good option when talking gear. You have more options with a slick plate carrier and a chest rig that attaches to it then with an all-in-one plate carrier, for example. Lastly, timing can be critical on saving cash. Some of the top brands have consistent sales that can be sizeable (like Tactical Tailor's Founder's Day sale, where all gear is 25-40% off), especially around the holidays. So put some thought into what you specifically want it to do and not do, shop around for the gear that meets that specific requirement, and then try to resist the "buy" urge until a good sale comes along (Black Friday will be here before we know it). And again, welcome! This is sound advise IMHO..... Although I am partial to ESSTAC Gear as a whole. CP |
Hey, us taxpayers paid for all that cool gear they get to wear.
Stop getting wrapped up in appearances and embrace the convergent evolution that leads all interested parties to similar, quality gear. No, you don't need to go all out and look like your preferred SEAL/SF/PJ/etc... role model, but don't fret if some of your gear is similar or identical to that used by military folks. As long as you're not claiming to be one when you are, in fact, not, then you have an issue. |
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I wouldn't worry about that. Good gear is good gear. Wouldn't sacrifice good quality because your worried about that. Quoted:
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Okay so here's the deal. I'm thirty years old and have only recently gotten into guns/shooting over the last five years or so. I was never in the service, and do not want to appear like I was. I have a great respect for our service members and if I could go back to when I was younger I would have enlisted in High School. Anyway, I want to get some gear but don't want to be mistaken as a former "operator". Those guys have some cool sh*t and they've earned the right to look bada$$... I have not. I just need some suggestions on what would be functional for shooting competitions (IDPA/USPSA/3GUN) and would also double for hunting or emergency scenarios. I'm open to suggestions in all categories, packs, belts, vests, boots, the whole kit. I just don't want to look like some clown that is trying too hard. Thanks in advance. I wouldn't worry about that. Good gear is good gear. Wouldn't sacrifice good quality because your worried about that. Used military gear is a great value. It is battle tested, and garage sale priced. Better then buying knockoff airsoft stuff from China. I really wish I had got into gear a lot sooner. So much easier to go shooting without shoving mags in back pockets, everything buried in a range bag, etc. If you are buying it to use, I would not worry. I think the issue is when you buy it to pose/pretend, so you will be fine. A good, inexpensive rig is the FLC, can be worn as a chest rig, described here |
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Depending on your environment, check out the M81 woodland stuff. There's plenty of top-quality options (not as many as multicam though), and there's so many woodland fashion items no one is going to assume you're military because of a little woodland camo.
Most gear markers also offer items in solid colors (OD, foliage, gray, and tan). I've got plenty of OD and Coyote gear that I got cheap and spraypainted to match central Texas. ATACS is another good option, but ATACS never really caught on and it's getting harder to find. Awesome camo though. --------------- As another civilian I do understand where you're coming from. There are plenty of far better men than me who have fought and died in multicam, UCP, etc.., and I feel a little out of place similiar colors (even without any tapes, flags, unit patches, etc.). |
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Decked out in camo head to toe generally = squirrel. Others may disagree. Stick to solid neutral colors. Don't be that guy with morale patches. It looks silly. Other than that, there is reason why certain guys use certain gear. It works. Just ask yourself "what are my needs and uses?" Something that makes sense for a SEAL in a maritime environment may not make sense for an infantryman, and what makes sense for a swat officer may not make sense for an citizen. Be realistic about your needs and your capabilities and you won't wind up wasting money on useless equipment or looking silly to professionals. Nothing wrong with looking to them for placement, brands, etc. crye, Solomon, ops core, LBT, etc are all very popular across the spectrum for a reason. Good luck!
Edit: just read what someone posted about modularity and scalability. Huge thumbs up to this. Being able to scale your equipment up or down as needed is a huge advantage. |
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ATACS is another good option, but ATACS never really caught on and it's getting harder to find. Awesome camo though. I find ATACS aesthetically pleasing, but I would not consider it effective. It has the undeniable problem of blending into one solid color at any appreciable distance, which totally defeats the purpose of camouflage in the first place. Solid colors are poor choices when one wishes not to be noticed (urban use may differ). Adults worrying how other people perceive them is silly. If the gear works and fits your needs, do what you want. |
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Some stuff I've had good luck with, in no particular order:
Howard Leight Impact Sport earmuffs Tactical Tailor Mini-MAV and pistol/rifle pouches Raven concealment pistol holster and mag pouches The Wilderness belts Bladetech pistol holster and mag pouches VTAC slings Merrell shoes |
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Another thing you might want to remember is that most people can't tell the difference between actual military uniform items and a pair of camo cargo shorts from Old Navy. Seriously. Why do you think so many people use NCStar scopes on their AR's, or think Uncle Mike's holsters are just as good as Safariland or Bianchi, or think that a guy shooting up a theater while wearing a black tactical vest is wearing military-grade body armor?
You're pretty much damned if you do, damned if you don't. If you wear head-to-toe MutliCum, with the latest gear from HSGI, Crye, and Kifaru, some people are going to think you're a wannbe Tier 1 bad-ass. But, even if you just buy an old USGI 6-mag bandoleer to carry some mags and an IFAK, some folks are still going to think you must really be a Navy Force Recon Ranger. There are a lot of people who think that anything more militant than a recycled Wal-Mart grocery sack means you're trying to play gunslinger dress-up. The best thing you can do is evaluate your own needs, wants, and finances, and then balance those three to come up with a system which works best for you, regardless of how someone else feels about it. After all, they aren't likely to be the one defending your home from thugs breaking in for your wife's jewelry at 3 am, or keeping it secure in the aftermath of a weather-related disaster, or thwarting an invasion of brain-eating zombies. |
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From a guy who has never served, but has great respect for those that have; I will admit that I would prefer gear that skews on the tactical side because of my appreciation and the fact that I just plain like the way it looks. I also don't want to buy crap but don't have the budget to buy everything I want. I have to balance my wants to my needs and make compromises. Do I want a plate carrier and plates? Hell yes, and maybe some day I will own one. Realistically, my needs are best served with a simple IIIa vest, so that is what I have. Some tactical stuff fits my needs very well. a couple examples, I have a nice V-Tac two point sling. I have found that I like this set up because when I hunt in thick difficult country I have access to both hands but have ready access to shoulder my rifle quickly. Another example is my 5.11 messenger bag. I got it because I liked the tactical style, it works as a great range bag, and most importantly was one of the few bags that would fit my 17" laptop. Funny thing is that several times in the airport I have been approached by military personnel who assumed I served just because of my bag. I would then explain that, "nope, just liked it and it fits my laptop" and would usually buy them a beer or coffee in appreciation of their service.
At the end of the day, get what works, but go for quality. |
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Thanks for the suggestions guys. I guess i was just overthinking the whole civilian tactical mall ninja bit. I appreciate the support and gear suggestions. You have begun well by not misrepresenting yourself nor your experience level. None of us, no matter how experienced, "knows it all", so continue to be first and foremost honest with yourself, and then be honest with the rest of us. Ask questions, and be prepared for a wide variety of answers. Listen to the folks who have actually used their gear, as opposed tp folks who have simply bought one item or another. Take your time, and read up. Make sure to look at the Equipment Exchange portion of this web site, but be aware that a lot of folks are selling-off gear that did not work for them. Same gear might work for you--or might not. Keep reading, have cash in hand, and be ready to pounce on good deals when they come around--but only after you have reached a knowledge level where you are reasonably sure that said deal is right for you. Again, read up, be patient, and don't be afraid to ask reasonably focused questions. There are a LOT of good threads/info tacked within the pinned threads atop this forum, and I suggest you begin your reading there. |
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Another thing you might want to remember is that most people can't tell the difference between actual military uniform items and a pair of camo cargo shorts from Old Navy. Seriously. Why do you think so many people use NCStar scopes on their AR's, or think Uncle Mike's holsters are just as good as Safariland or Bianchi, or think that a guy shooting up a theater while wearing a black tactical vest is wearing military-grade body armor? You're pretty much damned if you do, damned if you don't. If you wear head-to-toe MutliCum, with the latest gear from HSGI, Crye, and Kifaru, some people are going to think you're a wannbe Tier 1 bad-ass. But, even if you just buy an old USGI 6-mag bandoleer to carry some mags and an IFAK, some folks are still going to think you must really be a Navy Force Recon Ranger. There are a lot of people who think that anything more militant than a recycled Wal-Mart grocery sack means you're trying to play gunslinger dress-up. The best thing you can do is evaluate your own needs, wants, and finances, and then balance those three to come up with a system which works best for you, regardless of how someone else feels about it. After all, they aren't likely to be the one defending your home from thugs breaking in for your wife's jewelry at 3 am, or keeping it secure in the aftermath of a weather-related disaster, or thwarting an invasion of brain-eating zombies. I went over to my Parents to go shooting and as i walked out back with a AR15 wearing a t-shirt and jeans my Mom asks "Are you going to go play Army?" ...yes mom, i own guns because i like to "play army" And as stated who cares what they think, youre the one using the gear. |
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Buy on-sale UCP gear, made by reputable manufacturers, and sold by solid dealers for a pittance. Don't worry. In UCP, *no one* will mistake you for an operator. ~Augee What is UCP? It's also frequently called "acu" or "grandma's couch" digital camp. Posted Via AR15.Com Mobile |
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It's also frequently called "acu" or "grandma's couch" digital camp. Posted Via AR15.Com Mobile Quoted:
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Buy on-sale UCP gear, made by reputable manufacturers, and sold by solid dealers for a pittance. Don't worry. In UCP, *no one* will mistake you for an operator. ~Augee What is UCP? It's also frequently called "acu" or "grandma's couch" digital camp. Posted Via AR15.Com Mobile ACU camo? I don't like that because I was not in the Army. I did buy an ACU M65 once, only because it was cheap. I got called out by an employ at taco bell who turns out was a national guard (or army) reservist, he asked if I was in? I said I'm a Coast Guard vet and he said something about wearing a uniform item out of uniform.(I knew that) Anyways, I only buy OD gear. I have black gear that I just kinda happened upon, but don't really use any more. |
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ACU camo? I don't like that because I was not in the Army. I did buy an ACU M65 once, only because it was cheap. I got called out by an employ at taco bell who turns out was a national guard (or army) reservist, he asked if I was in? I said I'm a Coast Guard vet and he said something about wearing a uniform item out of uniform.(I knew that) Anyways, I only buy OD gear. I have black gear that I just kinda happened upon, but don't really use any more. Quoted:
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Buy on-sale UCP gear, made by reputable manufacturers, and sold by solid dealers for a pittance. Don't worry. In UCP, *no one* will mistake you for an operator. ~Augee What is UCP? It's also frequently called "acu" or "grandma's couch" digital camp. Posted Via AR15.Com Mobile ACU camo? I don't like that because I was not in the Army. I did buy an ACU M65 once, only because it was cheap. I got called out by an employ at taco bell who turns out was a national guard (or army) reservist, he asked if I was in? I said I'm a Coast Guard vet and he said something about wearing a uniform item out of uniform.(I knew that) Anyways, I only buy OD gear. I have black gear that I just kinda happened upon, but don't really use any more. The thing that National Guardsman should have known and remembered is that Army Regulation 670-1, Wear and Appearance of the Army Uniform, only applies to members of the Army, not the general public. |
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The thing that National Guardsman should have known and remembered is that Army Regulation 670-1, Wear and Appearance of the Army Uniform, only applies to members of the Army, not the general public. Quoted:
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Buy on-sale UCP gear, made by reputable manufacturers, and sold by solid dealers for a pittance. Don't worry. In UCP, *no one* will mistake you for an operator. ~Augee What is UCP? It's also frequently called "acu" or "grandma's couch" digital camp. Posted Via AR15.Com Mobile ACU camo? I don't like that because I was not in the Army. I did buy an ACU M65 once, only because it was cheap. I got called out by an employ at taco bell who turns out was a national guard (or army) reservist, he asked if I was in? I said I'm a Coast Guard vet and he said something about wearing a uniform item out of uniform.(I knew that) Anyways, I only buy OD gear. I have black gear that I just kinda happened upon, but don't really use any more. The thing that National Guardsman should have known and remembered is that Army Regulation 670-1, Wear and Appearance of the Army Uniform, only applies to members of the Army, not the general public. He DID know that. That was why he asked if I was still in. |
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He DID know that. That was why he asked if I was still in. Quoted:
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What is UCP? It's also frequently called "acu" or "grandma's couch" digital camp. Posted Via AR15.Com Mobile ACU camo? I don't like that because I was not in the Army. I did buy an ACU M65 once, only because it was cheap. I got called out by an employ at taco bell who turns out was a national guard (or army) reservist, he asked if I was in? I said I'm a Coast Guard vet and he said something about wearing a uniform item out of uniform.(I knew that) Anyways, I only buy OD gear. I have black gear that I just kinda happened upon, but don't really use any more. The thing that National Guardsman should have known and remembered is that Army Regulation 670-1, Wear and Appearance of the Army Uniform, only applies to members of the Army, not the general public. He DID know that. That was why he asked if I was still in. Got ya. It sounded like he was telling you that you were wrong, despite not being in the Army. |
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Shoes: good hiking boots/shoes I personally love Vasque
Pack: hard to go wrong with a good Camel Back Holster: hard to beat the Blade Tech Eclipse as an all around/all purpose. Belt: can't beat Blade Tech Looper series If it's competition stick with belt mounted mag pouches. If it's hunting, your pack and pockets. |
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...///snip/// ....The best thing you can do is evaluate your own needs, wants, and finances, and then balance those three to come up with a system which works best for you, regardless of how someone else feels about it. After all, they aren't likely to be the one defending your home from thugs breaking in for your wife's jewelry at 3 am, or keeping it secure in the aftermath of a weather-related disaster, or thwarting an invasion of brain-eating zombies. Well said. It is a system... your system of high quality gear that includes a skillset to go along with it. |
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While I said that mostly as a joke - the point remains that a lot of good companies are selling a lot of good kit for next to nothing because it's in UCP ("Universal Camouflage Pattern"), commonly, but incorrectly often called "ACU," or "ARPAT."
Hell. I won't buy it. No matter how cheap it is, but I'm sitting on a small mountain of UCP nylon that's again... practically worthless now. UCP gear can be dyed (there are several threads on it), or spray painted for people who are interested in high quality gear, but not high quality prices, and are not terribly concerned about "matching" or having the most current camouflage patterns and aren't worried about staying under the radar of an SGM who's tickled pink that garrison has finally broken out again, but butt-hurt as shit that the Army plopped a uniform transition right in the middle of their matchy-matchy bliss. ~Augee |
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OP im in the same boat as you, at 29 and never having any service experience. What I take from all of this is that the reason the mil guys use certain items(in service, and after), is because they meet their specific needs and are some of the most well made and durable items out there. I don't get big into tactical clothing, other than a couple pairs of 5.11 pants, but the gear is worth spending some money on. Ive taken several pistol and rifle classes, and there really is no substitute for purpose made gear that meets your needs and works well for you personally. Im not saying max out your credit cards on piles of tacticool crap you don't need, just some simple, well made items that will make your training much easier and more fun.
Currently all I have is a HSGI battle belt and run their mag pouches on it, along with a duty drop holster so I don't have to draw as high to clear the pistol. I also have a micro chest rig that carries 2 rifle mags, 1 pistol mag and an IFAK. For most range days I simply wear jeans or carhartt pants and a regular shirt, on really hot days ill wear a wicking shirt to combat the sweating. My point is you can go as wild as you want with gear, if someone wants to call you out as a mall ninja just because you have a few quality items then they probably have no clue as to what theyre talking about in the first place. Although, I share your point about not wanting to wear a ton of camo and stuff because I have never served and don't want to be accused of being a "wannabe." I have great respect for all serving, some of them my own family members included, and would never purposely disrespect any of them. |
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I kind of understand where the OP is coming from. I have alot of fancy gear, tubs full of it, matter of fact. The other day a buddy of mine invited me to a range that was about an hour away. I don't make it out to the range much these days so I was excited to go and spent the cash on the practice ammo to make it happen. You might do some searching around if that idea suits your fancy. Eta: A suggestion that might fit your quest that has recently caught my eye is: It's spendy gear, but so is any other gear you throw together. Check out this video from Mac with some of the philosophy behind the system.  This is the gear you would probably find state dept. security wearing on diplomatic protection details or contractors wanting to keep a lower profile. Good luck OP |
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Quoted:
While I said that mostly as a joke - the point remains that a lot of good companies are selling a lot of good kit for next to nothing because it's in UCP ("Universal Camouflage Pattern"), commonly, but incorrectly often called "ACU," or "ARPAT." Hell. I won't buy it. No matter how cheap it is, but I'm sitting on a small mountain of UCP nylon that's again... practically worthless now. UCP gear can be dyed (there are several threads on it), or spray painted for people who are interested in high quality gear, but not high quality prices, and are not terribly concerned about "matching" or having the most current camouflage patterns and aren't worried about staying under the radar of an SGM who's tickled pink that garrison has finally broken out again, but butt-hurt as shit that the Army plopped a uniform transition right in the middle of their matchy-matchy bliss. ~Augee Well because of your suggestion I went on ebay and looked around. One thing led to another and now I ended up finding USGI gear in woodland. I still may buy a UCP rig anyways. I was going to put together another condor rig, but now I have USGI inbound. Thanks. |
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I went from crazy fully pouches out stuff to a plain Jane UW gear 4 cell rig.
Its light..built tuff and honestly fits my needs better than the greatest newest xyz brand Cartier etc. Plus they custom make them to your specs (color..mag count etc) . Mines plain OD. Simple BHI cqb holster for my glock on a riggers belt...basic blow out /ifak. And a camel back I use for day hiking. I got more stuff but its not fancy. Hell...I built my battle belt using a cpf90 hip belt...eagle drop leg..and a saw pouch as a dump bag. Its solid and all good kit. But not fancy. Of course if posted here picture wise some non mil 20 something who's never hear of ALICE gear will bitch it doesn't match or looks retarded. In the end be it paper punching or emergency use its you that has to know it works...not some dolt on the web. Free advice from a non mil 40 year old Joe no one. Ymmv. Posted Via AR15.Com Mobile |
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Solomon makes awesome boots and sneakers that you can trailrun or hike in. They have rubber bumpers so you dont smash your toe if you kick a rock.
Columbia has great clothing that works anywhere, Appalachian trail, NYC...wherever. Arteryx made AMAZING outerwear and softshells, but be prepared to take a loan or sell an organ. Carhartt make durable and rugged pants and clothes that you can wear anywhere. A surplus USGI load carrying vest works well until you know what you really like. |
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Quoted:
Okay so here's the deal. I'm thirty years old and have only recently gotten into guns/shooting over the last five years or so. I was never in the service, and do not want to appear like I was. I have a great respect for our service members and if I could go back to when I was younger I would have enlisted in High School. Anyway, I want to get some gear but don't want to be mistaken as a former "operator". Those guys have some cool sh*t and they've earned the right to look bada$$... I have not. I just need some suggestions on what would be functional for shooting competitions (IDPA/USPSA/3GUN) and would also double for hunting or emergency scenarios. I'm open to suggestions in all categories, packs, belts, vests, boots, the whole kit. I just don't want to look like some clown that is trying too hard. Thanks in advance. Based on your description, it sounds like a belt with a couple of rifle/pistol/shotgun pouches will meet your needs (I'd include some suspenders too). |
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