GEAR & PRODUCT TESTING
ASSEMBLE YOUR OWN EDC DECOY KIT
An EDC decoy kit can provide an extra layer of security by helping to protect your important items whenever you're away from home or in unfamiliar surroundings.
ROCKY S2V PREDATOR BOOTS: THE IDEAL RUCKING BOOT
The Rocky S2V Predator boots have been hailed as one of the best boots for rucking and everyday military-style use. I wanted to put it to the test because I do a lot of rucking and a lot of military-style training.
BRITISH BELT KIT: COMBAT STANDARD
The British Belt Kit is a standard-issue load-bearing system used by British armed forces, designed to provide soldiers with a practical and efficient way to carry essential equipment. Typically made from durable webbing material, the kit includes a wide belt with multiple attachment points for ammunition pouches, utility pouches, first aid kits, and other necessary gear. Its modular design allows for customization based on mission requirements, ensuring soldiers have quick access to their tools while maintaining mobility. The British Belt Kit’s simplicity and reliability have made it a longstanding choice for infantry operations and training environments alike.
BRITISH DPM COMBAT SHIRT: OPTIMAL SUMMER WOODLAND UNIFORM
The British DPM Lightweight Combat Shirt is designed to provide enhanced comfort and functionality for soldiers in warm climates and high-intensity operations. Constructed from lightweight, breathable materials, it helps regulate body temperature while maintaining durability. The shirt features a camouflage pattern effective in woodland and temperate environments, along with reinforced elbows for added protection during tactical movements. Its moisture-wicking fabric ensures moisture is quickly evaporated, reducing chafing and allowing for extended wear without discomfort. Overall, the DPM Lightweight Combat Shirt offers a practical balance of comfort, durability, and tactical advantage.
CZECH M10M GAS MASK: MY LONG TERM EXPERIENCE
The CZECH M10M Gas Mask delivers reliable protection in high-threat environments, making it an essential piece of gear for anyone serious about safety and preparedness. Designed with a durable rubber facepiece and a wide, clear visor, it provides excellent visibility and a secure, comfortable fit for extended wear. Its dual-filter system ensures superior filtration against chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) hazards, keeping you safe from a wide range of airborne threats.
Lightweight yet robust, the M10M allows for easy breathing without compromising protection, whether you’re in tactical operations, emergency response, or survival situations. The adjustable straps and ergonomic design accommodate various head sizes, providing stability during movement and active scenarios.
BRITISH DESERT OPS WAISTCOAT: SERIOUS SOLDIER SURPLUS
The desert ops waistcoat is a versatile, lightweight tactical garment designed for optimal functionality in arid environments. Constructed from durable, breathable materials, it typically features multiple strategically placed pockets and compartments for carrying essential gear such as magazines, communication devices, and first aid supplies. Its camouflage patterns are specifically adapted to blend with sandy and rocky desert terrains, enhancing concealment. The waistcoat’s adjustable straps and abrasion-resistant fabric ensure a secure fit and long-lasting durability, making it an essential piece of equipment for military personnel and tactical operators engaged in desert operations.
CONDOR SHOTGUN AMMUNITION POUCH: LONG TERM USE AND TIPS
The Condor Shotgun Ammunition Pouch is an excellent and highly practical option for carrying and deploying shotgun shells efficiently. It can hold up to 25 shells, providing ample capacity. The pouch securely covers the shells to protect them from the elements, while its design ensures the user can access the ammunition quickly and with minimal effort when needed.
MRE STAR: A FRESH RATION OPTION
MRE STAR is a small Florida business that makes high-quality MREs. They sell to both local and international customers. Their MREs are a reliable option when surplus ones are hard to find or boring.
FRENCH CCE CAMOUFLAGE PATTERN: A UNIVERSAL CAMOUFLAGE FOR THE REST OF US
France has been using the CCE pattern consistently since the 1990s, and in my assessment, it remains just as effective and practical as our longstanding classic M81 woodland pattern. Both patterns offer solid camouflage capabilities suited to their respective environments.
FIGHTING LOAD CARRIER “FLIC”: SETUP AND BEST PRACTICES
The FLC (Fighting Load Carrier) vest has been a reliable option for more than ten years and continues to serve as a solid surplus choice, especially for beginners looking to build their gear setup. Its proven durability and functionality make it a practical starting point in adaptive combative training.