Posted: 7/4/2011 3:46:35 PM EDT
|
Does anyone use these during class or do they just get in the way of a sling, etc? I am going to my first rifle class in august and am taking the minimalist approach of 2 spare AR mags and my G19 and spare mags on my belt. I likely also will have a small dump pouch but nothing else except the rifle and mag in it with a 2 point sling.
Thoughts on adding a small hydration pack like the Camelbak Ambush? |
|
Of course having an additional set of straps is going to add to the tangle of webbing slightly. I use a Camelbak Grim-Loc'd to the X-harness on my MAV.
I say for you it depends on how you plan to fight. If you plan on having a hydro bladder on your gear, then train with it. Don't be embarrassed to show up at a class with it––if you don't actually use it, you'll never know if it works or not. |
|
If you're not used to it don't do it. Straps, tubes and shifting..... you are there to learn to shoot not mess with your gear. I just spent a very hot week at the Sig Sauer Academy with only jugs/bottles and got thru it just fine. (I do find it hard to believe however that I drank 16 large bottles of G2, 8 pack of Sunkist and two 24pk cases of water, I thought I'd have some for the trip home.... no such luck, Guess it was HOT!)
The only trainees with camelbaks were the MA state trooper in full gear with plate carriers. (train like you fight) Grab a drink when you load your mags. (I'd rather have a dump pouch and an UpLula as gear choices over the hydration pack) |
|
It's your call. I have trained with them and without.
Having one is very convenient (esp when your training partner...my brother...likes to hog all of the cold drinks in the cooler). I have one attached to the back of my OSOE Micro Rig and had no issues with the tubing interfering with my sling. On the other hand, as long as you have hydration available near the firing line, don't feel that you absolutely need a hydration system on your back. The deciding factor is to train as you fight. If you plan on using one in "real life," then you should use it when you train. Otherwise, it is your call. |
|
Quoted:
A hydration pack is not necessary unless you're treking far away from water sources. I don't know about that. I used one just today out walking with my 4 yr old son in 84 degree heat and humidity. Not only is it hands free, but it is easy to carry and keep other basic needs in as well. Drank about a liter of water, too. Sometimes "survival" doesn't just have to be about EOTW survival. It can just mean keeping yourself well hydrated and avoiding heat stroke. Just saying it's a pretty convenient way to carry a lot of water. |