I am a former soldier and law enforcement officer, and I think that it is great that a regular guy is trying to be prepared! You are doing your duty as an American citizen by preparing yourself to serve and protect your community and the nation. You do fall under the unorganized militia in current U.S. Militia Law. Refer to 10 U.S. Code § 246 - Militia: Composition and Classes. I am happy to be subscribed to your channel.
Did you enjoy watching me attempt some drills for the first time ever? We all suck at first. But without getting out there and pushing yourself, you'll never improve. Make sure you get training and spend time behind the trigger in order to improve your efficiencies. Gear can't fix your skill level. But, if you are interested in the gear shown in this video, here are some relevant links: Plate Carrier: Premier Body Armor (Core Plate Carrier & Stratis LVL IV Plates): premierbodyarmor.com/magic Use code "MAGIC" to get 10% off of your order! CamelBak ArmorBak: amzn.to/3u5TX1N Petzl Headlamp: amzn.to/3nmLJyA Baofeng UV-5R Radio: amzn.to/3utUA5F Baofeng Cat Tail Antenna: amzn.to/3HVw3eW Baofeng Extended Battery: amzn.to/3AdT7nH Radio Microphone Camo: amzn.to/3bx8Bsx (Not Maxton) Viperade Radio Pouch: amzn.to/3npsQec HSGI Triple Shingle R Pouch: amzn.to/3yqMe0X Tourniquet Pouch: amzn.to/3bvwwZi Gen 7 Cat Tourniquet: amzn.to/3bsqCbj Condor Dump Pouch: amzn.to/3NszqLu VooDoo Tactical Double P Pouch: amzn.to/3y0njzN KA-BAR Becker BK18 ( No Link ) Battle Belt: Raptor Tactical Odin Mk III Belt: tinyurl.com/4rmf8nnv Raptor Tactical Small Utility Pouch: tinyurl.com/mwumjc47 Safariland Flex Drop Leg Adapter: amzn.to/3NsmlBZ Safariland QLS System: amzn.to/3y3lEJG Safariland 6300 Series: amzn.to/3uvFI6P Safariland 7300 Series: amzn.to/3xYWZ95 Datrex Emergency Water Pouch: amzn.to/3y23Lv3 HSGI Taco Kangaroo Pouch: amzn.to/3brGMlb HSGI Taco Single R: amzn.to/3OO3B16 HSGI Taco Single P: amzn.to/3OuoMFs Belt Loop Hook (For Gloves): amzn.to/3NrrgTK Mechanix Wear Gloves: amzn.to/3OuUi6r KA-BAR USMC Fighting/Utility (No Link) Refuge Medical SOB Kit: www.refugemedical.com/products/sob-small-of-the-back?_pos=1&_sid=103634ae7&_ss=r&variant=40694592962729 Use code "MAGIC" to get 10% off of your order! Need to add CBRN protection to your loadout? Check out MIRA Safety here: alnk.to/ehXmdlR Use code "magic10" for 10% off of your order! Ballistic Eyewear: Gatorz Eyewear (Specter Inferno Lenses): bit.ly/3OEkdrN Use the code "PREPPER15" you'll save 15% off on any order!
No I didn't watch the whole video. 2, I'm an old Army vet, get rid of all the extra crap. Rifle, LBE, 210 rnd bandolier, personal first-aid, and that's all you need. You want to get in shape, hump your LBE with 6 full mags, and a full bandolier 5k three times a week.
Man I really enjoy your videos because I totally relate to you...I'm not former military or law enforcement, just a normal middle-aged guy who is trying to learn and do the things to protect himself and his family when things get crazy. Thanks for inspiring us normal-folk in our prepping efforts!
I just find it funny when people think just because they are or where in the military or law enforcement that’s they are end all be all a bunch of my friends where in the military and I can out shoot out run out fight and out smart them all we have tested this because I had enough of them bosting and showed them up I never joined the military because when you have to ask if you can shoot back at the bad guy that’s a joke of a military to me been shooting from the time I was 6 years old and always been fit and strong so don’t let people stop you from becoming the best you can be just because they where military remember if you pay tax’s you sign tho checks
@@MagicPrepper Don't let anyone shame you into buying or wearing gear the way they want you to. Gear, weapon systems, and setup are individual choices for civilians and veterans. My gear, My choice! I'll just say that whatever gear you do buy, try to get good quality stuff. Buy once, cry once. By the way, I love 'battlefield pickups'! The dead don't need the gear anymore.
More of us need to do things like this for sure. No need for military X.P. when we can just put ourselves through the same drills. As long as were consistently honest with ourselves we can do speed drills and marksmanship practice all by ourselves so long as we at least know the basics to begin with.
Proud of you for getting out there and learning and most of all showing your in progress training. Most people would never show their first time learning. Keep it up.
Yea I have never opened a door with a predetermined hostage scenario in play with a .308 AR-10 needing a lefty transition to clear an unknown threat. I was completely out of my element. But wow do you learn from those experiences!
hey man, you have decent kit, as someone who has been on the kit journey and a combat veteran I have this to say. if you have a superior mastery of basics and tactics you will have the advantage on the field. my suggestions... 1. don't get caught up in this one rifle mindset. if i go out I'm taking 2 - 3 rifles with me. an AR for close engagements out to 300 meters. i have an upper set up for day and an upper set up for night. i have a 6.8 with thermal for night that gets me out to 600 meters with terminal effectiveness and a bolt .308 set up for long range. 2. do you need plates? plates only work if the guy shooting at you can actually shoot, the reason we wore all that body armor was more for shrapnel from ied's than it was to protect from bullets and our armor was a bunch of Kevlar with front/rear and side sappies. if you are expecting to get shot or you are going to be in cqc then plates may be a good idea, however if you are running a .308 that will get you out to 800 why not use that tactical advantage and keep out of your enemy's effective range while keeping them in yours. 3. ounces turn to pounds, pounds equal pain.... try some lighter load bearing equipment like a chest rig that can be worn slick or over a plate carrier so you can adjust to your environment, same thing with the rifle set up. 4. never ditch your water, never. ditch plates before water and throw a change of socks 9in a plastic bag) in your camel back sleeve 5. superior tactics and fundamentals will win a gunfight over high speed gear and kit every time, that should be your focus, only carry what you need to complete the mission, that being said your belt is way too cluttered you need to drop a rifle taco and those 2 other pouches, the TQ is good but your ifak should be on your LBV or attached to an assault or 24hr/day pack. i have a very small bleeder/blowout kit on my lbv and a tq on my belt and a full blown ifak+ on my day pack. all those admin pouches that carry glow sticks or your compass and maps, food(lol) ext. should be in a day pack that you can drop and recover during and after a firefight. extra mags and ammo as well. at the end of the day you need to adjust your mindset, your fighting load is for fighting not survival and you will not survive rolling around with all that on, you need to store your survival gear in a pack and you need to shift your focus from gear and kit to tactics and strategy, your mind is your best weapon and asset. also try learning primitive skills so you feel more comfortable with leaving certain items out of your pack and lightening your overall load
Thanks for all of this advice. I definitely understand what you mean! I get into a mindset often of "if this is all I have" but I see what you mean by being more strategic in the choice of gear based on use. That's why there is so much redundancy on my PC and belt. But this comment section definitely has me reconsidering some of these options. Thanks for the info and I will be making changes based on this and other's suggestions.
@@busted_dyna8580 lol we used to take the brown and black boot socks and cut the part that would show off and then sew it to white work boot socks so we would still be in regs
If ounces equal pounds, why are you carrying 3 guns? How about training with a group of people that can cover different roles. Have a gang. You aren't Jason Bourne.
Awesome video! I'm a 40-year-old without military or any basic training, but like most who suffered normalcy bias, 2020 with the global pandemic coupled with the break down of the social order from coast to coast was my wake-up call. But in terms of survival, this video is a must watch in building a load out. I'm personally keeping things lite and simple.
We do camp outs with our weapons and our kits. This is to simulate doing work after SHTF, where you may have to set up camp and spend a night out in the woods. It’s one thing carry a AR. It’s a entirely different thing running a chainsaw and hauling wood out with a AR and a chest rig. We did a video on this back in the winter. If you get a chance MP toss that gear on, pick up your rifle, and grab a tent and head out in the woods for a night or two. You will learn much. Peace.
I got my first AR 15. I am having the alarm company come tomorrow to make sure everything is working. I’m cleaning my garage this weekend so I can fit my car in the garage. I’m looking to set up a hiding spot for my gun as well as practice shooting it and always getting more ammo. I got a second big dog. As a female who lives alone I wanna do what I can to be safe when SHTF.
Hide it in the walls that only you know how to open, furniture hide away compartments are good too. Your first AR? Nice. Don't listen to the weaklings about weight and the bullsht less is better because it ain't. Seriously. Prepare for you, and shop for drum mags. Ah yeah, snail drums or beta mags and you will see that more is better. This principle applies to more than one long gun also. If your AR is turning into a smoke wagon and getting cherry hot...let it cool down while you go to work with a scatter gun or, your choice backup tool. Shtf fast? Crazed hordes in the suburbs? In defense for yourself or children against torture and sadistic cruelty and loss of life? Scatter gun will drop 'em 20 at a time close quarters combat. Worse case Battle scenario, verses best case to meet it head on.
Make sure the hiding spot is in either a central location that's easy for you to get to from anywhere in your residence or where you spend most of your time in your residence(or your bedroom, can't really go wrong there). For example, you could easily modify the under side of a table or a couch with a false bottom. Or simply buy a wall fixture that looks like a decoration, there's a few companies that make them and they're not too hard to find online if you want to order one. You should also have loaded magazines stored with it, no less than 2. There is a caveat to this if you prefer more, "there's no such thing as too many magazines". You should try to practice shooting once a month, or at least once every couple of months. Just a few mags(2-4, more is fine if you've got the money and time to spare) is enough to dust off the gun-shyness and practice shooting from all 3 primary positions, standing, kneeling and prone. You should spend about 60% of your ammo, time, effort, etc. on shooting offhand while standing, shooting from a supported stance is easier and incurs less fatigue(shooting fatigue is real and your aim WILL get very wobbly very quickly). So you should naturally practice where your weak points are. With that said, practice at varying distances. Start close from 25-50 yards and gradually move up to 100-200 as you get familiar and confident. Most people won't ever shoot beyond 300 yards, and many couldn't to save their own lives lol. So once you're proficient, take it as far as your practice space allows and you'll only be better for it. You stated that you're a woman, so I would assume you're not going to be fitting your AR-15 with all manner of "tacticool" and unnecessary accessories. I recommend a bipod, sling, weapon light and a low-medium(lower for urban and higher for rural) power optic as necessities. Fancy stocks, foregrips, laser sights, etc. are nice at the range, but you're investing in a SHTF set-up, so simple is better and that means less weight. "Ounces make pounds", you should try to remember that quote when building your rifle in addition to your kit. I also recommend disregarding the guy above me, you don't want drum mags. They're expensive, heavy and very few brands function reliably. I would say Magpul, Lancer and steel or aluminum Colt brand GI mags are your best options for reliability, durability and longevity. If you take my advice and get a bipod, I recommend getting some 20 round magazines. They allow greater maneuverability when deployed in the prone position, they don't stick out as far as 30 round magazines. I also recommend having like minded people around you, I'm not trying to be sexist or trying to scare you, but if and when things do get bad, you don't want to be alone, especially as a woman. And I'm not talking about COVID lockdown bad, I'm talking about law and order has ceased to exist bad. Stay safe, stay vigilant. For better or for worse, we're all in this together.
Drum mags work. As always it's operator choice on magazine capacity. 10 mags of 20 rounds each or two 100 round drums AND some 30 round mags huh?! Weight problem- shoulder sling and bipod legs. Operator choices.
@@lemyers605 SOME drum mags work. The 60RD Magpul and 50RD X Products drum mags are the only two that come to mind that I'd recommend, and the latter is very expensive at around $250. The 60RD SureFire mags are supposedly used by some special forces but civilian end users often call them junk and unreliable because of FTFs. Those awkward 100RD KCI and off brand drum mags are best left for the range, they're not designed for duty use and although some are reportedly durable, have been known to also have FTF issues and aren't praised for reliability. This isn't a matter of opinion, if you're recommending something that is known for having reliability issues, to someone for emergency situations like SHTF when they're depending on their gear for life or death situations, you're putting their life at risk. 20 and 30RD magazines are battle proven, and there's easily half a dozen or more brands made of various materials from aluminum, polymer, steel and hybrid mags like Lancer, that are legendary for reliability. Drum mags and various other "high capacity" novelty magazines are virtually all known to have reliability issues under even light use. I'm not trying to be argumentative or incendiary, but please pull your head out of your ass. What could possibly possess you to recommend something so heavy and unwieldy to a woman? Not only that, but she stated she lives alone, so why on God's green earth would she need something like that? The last thing you want to do is put yourself in a position where you need that volume of fire, let alone any fire in the first place. You're trying to survive in SHTF/self defense, not Alamo yourself in your home. This is preparing for real life scenarios, not some action hero or zombie movie bullshit. She's one person, if a mob of looters attack her home, it doesn't matter how many drum mags she's got, she's out manned and likely outgunned and you're telling her that some drum mags will allow her to not only protect a perimeter larger than she can manage on her own AND successfully engage multiple threats? No, you'd be dead wrong. You avoid fighting but prepare for it, you're not going to have the resources, manpower or the government funded supply line to wage war and most people don't have automatic capabilities to justify laying down that much fire. Your suggestions are unreasonable and quite frankly, unrealistic. Save the "operator" talk, you sound like a LARPER. Especially when you're talking some bs about swapping to a shotgun when your barrel gets "cherry hot" after becoming a "smokewagon". What kind of fantastical bullshit are you even on about? Why would you and how would you do that with a semi automatic rifle? It takes hundreds of rounds to achieve that, with full auto and constant mag changes. What kind of World War Z scenario are you imagining that would require that? And running your rifle that hard destroys your barrel, you want to keep your weapon system in fighting shape to keep you alive, not bricked and useless. You don't have the luxury of an armory to change barrels, and unless you've got a designated machine gun you can't swap your barrel out in the shit anyway because an AR-15 isn't designed for that. You're confusing fantasy with reality my friend, that's not how it works out here lol. Please refrain from giving this kind of advice outside of a movie pitch, good intentioned or not, it will get someone killed.
@@Let_The_Foolish_Take_The_Lead Females are strong. One will not have to fight alone in your all inclusive mob mayhem scenario. No one's choice of Firearm they are operating will be ridiculed in that time. Beta reliable. For the strong woman have a pistol for each hand. It is standard.
I’d recommend the mechanix gloves that have the full leather palms. With the ones you have I’ve learned from working in the woods, that when they get wet they break apart faster. The full leather palms seemed to last longer and have slightly better heat protection.
A lot of great stuff you've got!! Some ideas to think of if you're interested: Time stamp: 4 minutes in I noticed a few things (You seem to primarily shoot right handed, so some adjustments to your: shoot, move, communicate.. as well as adjustments from life experience): You have your radio bottom right on waistline, move to left- along with your Maxton PTT (non dominant side- ALWAYS keep dominant hand on rifle when possible- you nvr know when you need to turn down radio or talk but still want finger on trigger guard, ready to go)... In the same rotation, move your pistol mags to the left waistline (to take place of where your radio was)... Keep in mind, this will remove spacing for your TQ (on your right side) by putting your mags there- which is fine, actually perfect, because cross reach for P-mags is never good- non dominant hand draws mags (plus You ALWAYS want your TQ to be accessible to both hands)- have it take the place of where your knife is... Of course now your knife doesn't have a home- it's your last ditch effort, tuck it inside plate carrier- concealed allowing you to potentially get jump on someone attempting to take you as hostage- but leave enough to grab handle of knife comfortably and confidently with right hand... Dump pouch is perfect local The flashlight is reflective- if you intend on keeping that on your chest, put some tape over it... you're doing nothing but flashing reflective metal around giving your location away (unnecessarily), also if you intend on using the flashlight you also need cover to cover yourself (poncho) while using flashlight to say look at a map... that poncho (new addition- encourage helikon tex, "swagman roll poncho"- great addition to keeping warmer if it gets cool at nights (especially in the Dakotas) Flip your medkit upside down on your belt.. reaching behind you with all gear on is a pain enough, pulling up to where plate carrier already is will be next to impossible.. pulling down is going to make it that much easier.. ...Lastly, ziptie EVERYTHING down, go through your molly webbing and ziptie ALL POUCHES and attachments down, last thing you want is to be moving and discovered you snagged/pulled loose and now have potential to lose equipment flapping around...
@@MagicPrepper I was hoping to get to the point without seeming short and rude... messages are always difficult to read/understand someone's mood during delivery (especially when you don't know the individual)... I promise my message was intended with the most positive supportive interests of making your kit functional and convenient accessibility (especially during times of high stress).. all of those things I mentioned may be very different from the set up you have now, but do serve a purpose.. especially for the intention of keeping your dominant hand free for shooting... We were taught: ¹)Med (like TQ, most important)- keep accessible with both hands... 2) unless you are 100% proficient at being ambidextrous to keep all firearms capability to center or right of body 3) radios/ dump pouches/ mags/ utility pouch are secondary needs, they go on non dominant side (but then you put your kit on routinely and utilize it and manipulate those objects to get muscle memory built up)...
@@TingTingalingy I wasn't blaming the employees. I'm literally indicating the food. it's garbage and poor diet is strongly correlated with other bad choices
I prefer less weight from what you have. When I served we did not have body armor. We had a Flack vest, but we didn't have to wear it half the time. Web gear was belt, suspenders, 2 mag pouches, bayonet, canteen/iodine pills, 1 Carlisle bandage and fanny pack. ( inside fanny pack was C-rat,(now stripped down MRE) socks, underwear, T shirt) and a poncho below the fanny pack. Then I have a light weight carrier for my 260 Remington AR10 2 liter bladder and iodine pills, 2 mag pouches, 1 MRE, TANTO KNIFE. Then condor EXO VEST level III light weight plates at 3.2# each, 3 mag pouches ifak kit water bladder/iodine pills, radio pouch with headset, long range antenna w/coax connection cable. Side plate pouches and plates compass and pouch. 1 mre stripped down. Lastly a heavy armor set. (KDH MILITARY ARMOR )BUT using a Condor EXO plate carrier, level 3a soft armor front, back and sides, side plates Iii+ and front/rear III+ (3.5# each) armor, 3a groin armor, shoulder armor and rump armor. 2 liter water bladder, ifak kit, radio pouch, coax cable to long range antenna, headset. Compass and MRE., iodine pills
Great humility MP! I’m the same! Just a normal guy building his preps. I finally broke down and ordered some armor. Armor is like an admission that rounds are incoming, which is an assumption of self defense situation. When i practice at the range, it’s easy to get lost in the fun of shooting without being shot at.
As an ordinary civilian who's been slowly getting into this over the past few years, you are inspiring. Thanks for putting yourself out there to show us your gear.
12yrs USMC, and over 30 in Law Enforcement...I appreciate the fact you made it clear right at the beginning you had no LE or Military experience....Keep up the good work bro!
Hey magic, only adjustment I would consider on this kit is a moving the comms cable should be in front of any water bladder you have because water could block or weaken the signal. Thanks for the education vid as always man 🫵🏾👑
I was going to say the same thing. I’ve always run the pistol side of my carrier slick. If you need to get to that thing quickly, you don’t want anything in the way to get hung up.
I second this about the caatail antenna. Even more important to get that outside the water blader if you were running steel plates. Water will definitely weaken your transmissions for sure between the bladder and Ceramic/Poly plates. Also ditch the second knife. You can always buy a second sheath and move the knife from PC to belt or vice versa. Remember, Ounces turn into to pounds and pounds equal pain. you never want to carry more than what is essential. Maximize Ammo, Water and Calories
First off if your gear works for you and your mission, good for you. I’m not trying to say this is what you should do, but since you asked here are a few things I would look at: TAPE SWITCH-I think you will find with time and experience you will change or move the white light tape switch. With adrenaline flowing you will clamp hard with your grip and you may have a light ND at the wrong time (I almost learned a permanent lesson from this in Baqubah) Maybe use tail cap switch or move the switch close to your thumb but not where you would normally rest your thumb. You can also use a switch like a unity hot button which would help . OFFSET SIGHT-I saw in the video you were room clearing using limited penetration on the funnel. From my experience again adrenaline is going and most joes had a hard time staying in the optic in a dynamic environment like inside a building downrange. I know your lvpo is 1x capable but since you already have back up irons why not set them at 45 offset to give you a more open sighting system while clearing? Or better yet offset a red dot instead? I think you will find your SA will open up while conducting a very high risk procedure like room clearing. KNIFE PLACEMENT-Where that knife is, it isn’t your knife in a fight, it’s OUR knife. If you are going to have a get off me knife in front I would recommend a much smaller inconspicuous knife like a SOCP or similar. Also try and keep that space above the mags kind of clear. NAV PRODUCTS?-I didn’t see a compass, map case, pace beads etc. if this is a SHTF rig might want to put some nav gear in an admin pouch. I use my compass even in an urban environment. It’s much quicker to send a bearing in relation to others position than to try and describe where I am, especially if all the terrain looks similar. TQ PLACEMENT-Try and place it where you can grab it from either hand or have another staged on the weak side. They make pouches/TQ holders that go centerline right below the mags on the pc. A lot of dudes are running those and they work pretty good. Try something like that and drill into your head that is the primary TQ spot so you aren’t flapping around when seconds count. Finally….where’s the bass man?
As a former infantryman my advice to you MP is find ways to cut down the weight of your kit . Switch out that heavy Legion for something lighter like a G19 or a M18. And 3 pistol mags is plenty. One in the gun and two spares on the belt or chest rig . Ounces add up to pounds and pounds really suck when ya got to hump it .
Great points. I can just switch the grip module on the Legion and bring it back to M18 weight just about. I will probably do that. The G45 fills that roll well already luckily. Yup I have seen the comment on the pistol mags a couple of times now. Starting to get the impression that less is more ;)
I definitely see the benefit to go with a 5.56 rifle over the 308, then for sure, cut down a pistol mag or two. I understand why the extra mags, especially due to the fact there is less rounds for the primary weapon. Carry more ammo and less weight with a 5.56 and fewer pistol mags, but then again, if this is a SHTF set up, the idea is to stay close to home or there abouts so the extra weight may not be a huge detriment, but in times of traveling or bugging out so to speak, weight savings may be more important than capabilities with range and ammo count.
From someone that spent 12 hours day/night for years inside a duty belt full of mandatory trinkets: too much stuff. Gun, ammo (pistol only), flashlight maybe. Put the rest of the stuff elsewhere or it will kill your mobility and your back. You will be combat inefficient after a few hours with that gear. Half of that stuff belongs inside a small patrol bag. A light patrol bag is the way to go. Your rifle setup is on the right track, IMO. Godspeed.
Love the video and even more so, the host of recommendations and ideas from the comment section. One thing I'd change out for sure are the gloves. For the price and how long Mechanics gloves last, I find better value and durability in IronClad gloves. I used those a crap ton when I used to work in the Shipping/Yard/Receiving department at Menards. When handling and help loading lumber, patio blocks, rebar, all while getting rained on, summer heat, winter cold, the IronClads lasted the longest and we're the most comfortable. Shame they don't sell them anymore at Menards like they used too. Amazon has them though. For those who live in different environments in different areas of the country, obviously our kits will differ, but since I'm far up north and it gets cold often with long winter months, I've obviously changed out or added different gear to fit me in my environment.
My 2 cents, great vid as usual and good kit. My only advice is to train with your kit as often as possible. That is the only way to figure out where to make adjustments. Practice reloading from every pouch. Everyone out here can throw out advice about how to adjust your rig. But only you will know what adjustments will make it better for your use.
Great video and I like to see what other people’s load out ideas are and how they incorporate the items into their systems. I try to go as light as possible
Yea I am trying to get things lighter all of the time. The new plates and plate carrier made a huge difference. I went from 11x14's to 10x12's for the purpose of weight savings.
I agree. Web gear from the 60's and 70's ...much lighter than all the add on people do....iodine pills work to, instead of hauling a water purifier.....takes to long compared to the pills.if your on the run, and they hunting you, the pills work much faster. Fill canteen insert pills, put lid on loose, shake, seal the. Run
Same. I have an ultralight 308 (with the exception of the criterion barrel, which I refuse to compromise on). No bipod or vfg, tried both, disliked both. Tiny little 7075-t6 "thumb rest" that actually goes in the crook of the support hand. V-seven aluminum enlightened handguard, J-B welded on, because ceramic thread locker failed. Skeletonized 7075-T6 grip, stock rubber replaced with foam and duck tape, True Velocity polymer case ammo. Anyway, yeah, every attempt to lighten has been made. RDS is set far forward so I can pull it back (to the side of my shoulder) for CQBing around corners. BUIS are ultralight 7075-T6 that's no longer available. 2 mag pouches on stock, 1 with a spare 29-round Pmag (aluminum extension for taking abuse from going prone, or emergency reloads), and the other with tourniquet. Custom camo tape to allow venting heat, but also still giving good concealment. Adjustable gas block, JP light-weight bolt and standard captured spring. Scope is aimpoint pro with ard on a Nightforce ultra light scope ring. All components that can be V-Seven Titanium, are. Bolt catch is S-7 Tool steel.
Oh yeah, sling was simplified. Removed a piece of steel that added unnecessary weight. Flashlight is an Amazon red light I gorilla taped on, takes 1 AA. My support hand thumb presses to turn on/off. Flash hider is lighter and thinner than A2 bird cage, sharp for punching through obstacles.
@@MagicPrepper But yeah, if you have the money, look into this stuff. I have a cheap "back up lmg" 308 that kind of sucks. Like, it works, it'll get the job done, but it's not fun, it doesn't feel good to charge, etc. It's just not on the same level. You do get what you pay for some times. Imo, the JP bolt and captured spring are the two best upgrades I made, which is funny, since they didn't improve the weight much at all. They're just 22nd century smooth. Something you'd think came from the future.
Thanks for the update. I decided to go for closed mag pouches (or at least have a retention) after watching a footage from Ukraine where the guys were retreating under enemy fire and one of them lost his AK mags while crawling.
Land nav training. Map, Compass, protractor, mechanical pencil. Keep the items in your kit. Whether you choose military style land nav or civilian style. Just be proficient at it. Nice kit.
A change I would make if it was me, is a multi tool in place of the kangaroo mounted pistol mag, also I would 100% ditch the 5 hour power drink and add a calorie bar or 2. Also If you want the ability ro run the belt as a stand alone. Look into getting a H harness for it. Will carry alot more comfortable. And the harness will easily fit under the plate carrier when needed.
Yea I like the multi-tool idea but I do carry one for my EDC which is one me while wearing the kit so I wasn't sure if that covered that base or not. The H harness might be a good idea as well. Thanks for the suggestions!
Depends on the H harness or plate carrier though. I tried my RTS plate carrier over my Condor H harness and it was very uncomfortable. However, the H harness by itself on a belt with a heavy load out, I found to be extremely comfortable and my body didn't feel sore anywhere at all nor did I feel like the belt was trying to air out my butt crack everytime I had to bend down or stuff like that.
My 2 cents...if you're an older guy I'd switch to 556, increase ammo mags, add a lifestraw or vero system or both, lose the water bladder, carry a canteen, carry a Glock 17 or 19 and try to offload the wants vs needs. Honestly, you look seriously weighed down and probably in greater shape than most, but can you picture yourself hauling all that on foot for an extended length of time? Maybe you have experimented and have no problem. Keep up the great videos!
Loved it brother. I run a G45 with threaded barrel with same x300 in a crappy condor drop-leg, safari land is on my wishlist. HSG dump pouch, set of 3 double tacos and basic 5.11 pistol mag pouches. I haven’t made it to medical/blowout bag yet but slowly getting there. You have put a lot of thought into it and I’m sure this video will get 100k views! Peace and Prep on!
It's always good to see someone else's load out. While yours and mine have a lot of differences there are still many similarities. I am a LEO, EMT and spent 9 yrs as a Career Firefighter so my equipment and set up came from those backgrounds. I, like you, am not prior or current military and so I don't kit up as if I am a Special Forces Operative, it wouldn't be prudent. I appreciate the fact that you based your set up on the actual training you have and the skill set you have developed. Keep doing you, I appreciate that you share your journey.
Great video two thumbs up👍👍. Without reading what other people have written this is my perspective. In a crisis situation Murphy’s Law always comes to play with a sadist twist. Don’t limit your inventory to one of a single item but have two as a quasi-twin back up rollout system. After all things get stolen, breakage, confiscated for the courts to sort out at a later date regarding legal issues. Might want to get kneepads and a space blanket including a non-camo duffel bag to put all your gear in to keep the lookie Lou’s out. The space blanket is good for a clean surface for cutting a deer or a clean operating surface for surgical use instead of being in the dirt. Unknown what the anti-heat imagery optic value it is but something to ponder on with Magnets/duck tape if it’s for that.
Literally awesome too see your skill set grow 👊👊 Great Job MP...my kit(s) are designed for me, 308 WIN is my hunting rifle, not my in my QR or rec kits. I run a pretty basic M4 reckey kit, always Churchill 12 for breaching or up close and kissing. I served 12 years in the Marines, love the fact you brought up the dump pouch, trust me, a very necessary accessory 👍, Thank You Brother, be safe
Looks heavy for a 145# guy like me... Your water system is well thought out, but after 20 years in the Marines, I will ALWAYS have 2 quarts of water on my belt. Lack of water is such a show stopper, and we go thru it so fast. I know how hot ND can be in the summer. Thanks for bringing us along.
I'm very minimalistic, your setup has too much going on for me but if it works for you, that is all that matters. I love seeing other people's loadout and taking notes. Even if I see a setup that's not for me, it still give it a thumbs up. I rather see my 2A brothers and sisters armed to their liking instead of seeing them defenseless. Anyways, thanks for the video and I got your back brother 🤙
Agreed. I generally don't add bipods and I think he would have been better off putting together a V-Seven inspired build to shave weight. I also don't generally like LPVOs, but everyone has different preferences. I usually set my stuff up for CQB or very sneaky ops, because loud = dead in the age of thermal cameras and weaponized commercial drones. First two layers of defense: don't be detected, don't be zero'd in on.
Hi all gidday from Australia 👊 Man U guys r so lucky with the amount of gear u have available we r very jealous. Over here only licensed sporting shooters r allowed handguns and ONLY at the pistol range, if u r caught with ur handgun anywhere but on the way to or from the range u will prosecuted, fined and lose ALL ur weapons permanently !! No semi auto centre fire weapons allowed at all, no semi auto or pump action shotguns allowed at all, 10 round max capacity mags for ur bolt action gun and there was talk of also banning lever action guns as well? In one of our states the government is trying to pass legislation banning people from reloading their own ammo unless u have a “manufacturers “ license?? I think it’s their less confrontational way of disarming us slowly as even factory ammo supplies r a bit patchy?? And don’t get me started on fuel prices as we r around $2.35 per litre an going up regularly 👎 Anyway stay safe guys🤙
Looks like a really tight battle rig - great for going into a fight or walking patrol. Have you doubled it up with a backpacking rig? After all, it is common for preppers to have good battle rigs and good packing rigs (bugging out most often, but when foot power is how you get to and from your homestead from points of interest like community markets for trade, etc) there can and may be times when you need to both be the tiger and the mule at the same time. A side by side of this with your mule-rig and the compromises you would make if you had to do both would be interesting to see - especially since your rig here shows that, apart from the ceramic plates, you tend to run heavy. This is something I'm still working on myself - as I'm a backpacker by practice, not an operator, and while I've got the plate carriers and the rest, I'm trying to figure out how to blend to the two into something that works - as my vehicles each have a get-home pack AND a plate carrier rig with all the fixing (though the big guns are in the less efficient "pistol" versions in .223 due to state laws limiting vehicle guns to "handguns" as the AFT defines them in any given week) and they still feel like two separate systems - one for dealing with bad things that the police won't handle and one for just packing home (which is regularly 22 miles away from where I'm parked, so a decent jaunt on foot, especially in harsh weather). Likewise, I've got the carrier and the rest in my bedroom for the bumps in the night uses AND a pack in case I have the need to go on walkabout for a few weeks (to scavenge, find game, retrieve/visit family (18 miles away) - but I've not found a good blend between packing and security. I've tried just taking out the back plates - but that has NOT been very satisfactory (not due to the loss of security, but the terrible fit and pull of an unbalanced rig AND that the shoulders are doing too much service for too many straps). For those who use their belt more when packing to carry weight on their hips (which most people do, I'm just blessed to be more shoulder than anything else and I'm shoulders only most of the time) there would be a lot of conflict there as well. My current compromises involve putting more weaponry on the pack itself that I would normally like for the get-home and the complete dropping of the carrier for the longer-term bag at the house. So, I would love to see an in depth video of someone else working through the struggles and compromises - especially since your tactical rig is much more detailed than my much more basic loadout.
So my backpack rig is a different set up. If I am going all out with a pack but need the defensive capabilities, then I run a chest rig with no armor or anything. Otherwise, my big ole bug out bag is a standalone system with plenty of mag carrying options and the like. That video is.... on it's way.
Marine Vet here - Good loadout, if you really want to know how it all works go sign up for Tactical Games. I’d start with a skirmish (one day event). It’s gonna test skill plus fitness and weapons handling. You are gonna realize that battle rifle is way to much to be running around with, and you’d need a 5.56 for tactical games. Go check it out, it’s a super fun time with mostly current law enforcement and tons of veterans that are all super helpful people. You’ll get a real understanding of how it all comes together under time pressure and physical stress without actually being shot at.
Thanks Scott I appreciate it! You are probably right and I might be making some changes here soon. I agree that a milsim style event would be a great experience. Wish there were more here ND! But, I might make my way to one further away anyways! Thanks again.
@@MagicPrepper even those of us that did it. Times change and threats change. Better Tools, equipment, gear, optics, helmets, armor (like your light plates), night vision, lights (IR), silencer options change too. We are always changing. I have learned one thing though: and that is not to try and do it all (gets heavy).
I'm former Pasadena Swat and Marshall Division and I think that you did a great job with your gear and your smart to prepare . Good luck and God bless you and your family . It's a good idea to get your family into training with you so you learn how to work as team . Excellent job .
Great video! Your channel is different from others, some are all up in your face about what individuals should do and you’re very modest. Thanks for doing what you do!
Thanks for the informational videos, great content and explanations. I noticed that I get alot of fatigue and inflamation in my hip when using a thigh holster for durations over 30 minutes. I prefer a lower hip holster. I carry a Rtak3 infront of my holster that lays across the front of my belt. I attach my KaBar to the left side shoulder strap. I really like your admin pouch with water purification. You might want to add a small survival blanket to it. YMMV Thanks for all you do.
Yea I used to wear a lower hip holster and made the switch for better draws. I needed the extra rigidity for consistency but I get what you mean about the thigh pressure. Also, great idea on the mylar blanket in the pouch!
Your setup is good and on point. I like how you are keeping weight in mind . One recommendation I would make is to run a multi tool on your kit. I do run a MUT multitool which also can be used as a cleaning kit for my AR. Something to consider.
I really appreciate your thinking and the content of your videos. My thoughts on this topic. Unlike the military or police, we as preppers will not have the luxury of a resupply. Meaning we have to carry everything we need. Like you said you might get hung up for an extended period of time. My kit, I carry more loaded mags, and my cargo pockets will have the five C’s. I also have a resupply of ammo,MRE’s,a small solar rechargeable battery for tac lights and comms in my assault pack. Just good for thought. I don’t expect to see too many good samaritans when the SHTF. Keep doing what you do and good luck to you in the upcoming unknown.
Ex military here. First, I’d like to commend you on a very well thought out and executed kit setup. Over the years, I’ve watched channels with individual sporting the latest tacticool kit, totally impractical for reality. Recently I changed my plate carrier to a slick configuration. Now, I use a belt system similar to the old army LBE as my primary kit. I also have a backup chest rig, each can fit over my slick plate carrier. Check out the video from Blue Jean Operator for a full explanation.
As a former military enlisted, unless you join a special unit, you'll learn more as a civilian than most training you'll get in the military. I learned more in 1 year as a civilian interested in the hobby than I did in my first 3 years in service. It wasn't until I started doing some more extracurricular stuff like air assault, sapper school, and deployment training that I learned more involved warfighter training. As far as the weapon platform and gear... we really weren't able to chose what's best for ourselves. Being able to change your kit with more and mostly better options than the military will allow you to utilize is great. I will say the ballistic helmets, carriers, plates and optics were pretty nice. If I had any idea how much that stuff costs as a civilian, I would've probably tried to acquire more gear before I left.
Looks solid. We have several of those same radio pouches for our Moto XTS2500 radios. They’re a knockoff of the Maxpedition pouch but they seem to be decent quality. Our teenage boys haven’t busted ‘em yet!
Nice to see a .308 in the mix. I love my 5.56 guns but depending on location, a .308 makes more sense. I have a couple different loadouts but one is my heavy kit for my DD5V3.
Keep it up brother, keep training. Only recommendation Id make to you to help you out from my experience as an operator is a small basic breaching kit like a crow bar at a minimum, because you may not know where you might be stuck at /fighting from. A roll of electrical tape and a multi tool, you'd be amazed at how often you use both of those items and the amount of problems you can solve. Keep fighting the good fight.
Obviously you can always switch out, add and remove equipment & ammo depending on mission objective. Always have extra socks, underwear and a spare shirt in your pack. Can't stress this enough.
Still have the old HSGI riggers belt with their "slim battle belt" from about 5 - 6 years ago. Goes on over whatever you are wearing and I've worn it all day at competitions. Dual HSGI Taco kangaroo pouches, HSGI bleeder pouch, admin pouch (that carries extra medical stuff if nothing else), TQ pouch and a inexpensive S&W full tang knife, same condor dump pouch, and another multi use utility pouch that I put a standard GI canteen in and then has a multi tool, handheld flashlight, and a set of binos in separate compartments. Then I just run a Slickster plate carrier with level IIIA stab rated plates, but they're only 1 lbs each and much more likely to deal with handguns than rifles at this point where I am. I've got a set of hybrid Level IV's if needed. Gives me 3 more mags along the side plus comms. Then along the other side I've got all the pouches filled with another CAT TQ and other assorted medical supplies. Also I have multiple placards I can attach quickly to the front of plate carrier to give me 3xAR mags, 4x BX25 or PCC mags, or 2x7.62 NATO mags depending on what I'm carrying. Or I can run the plate carrier slick and use a FLC vest or chest rig. I like having one plate carrier that can go the range from more covert to overt depending on situation. Pistol is either a P99 or PPQM1 in a Safariland GLS holster. Goto rifle right now is till my old Stag Model 3 I've had for over a decade along with an original Protac light that can take CR123's or AA, rocking the GWOT era quad rail & magpul RVG with a magpul RLS sling. That might change if I can get enough rounds through the WWSDish rifle I put together that's 1.5lbs less weight with can and optic than the Stag.
@Magic Prepper, if your knife is a "last ditch weapon", I would move it to your left side belt. Currently, it pulls in the same direction as your side arm. If in a close fight, won't you be attempting to pull your side arm? Left hand might have the opportunity to pull the knife to make space to pull a side arm or main weapon system.
Interesting point! You might be on to something there. It might not work as well with the mag pouches and stuff because the holster/pistol grip demands a bubble of space but I like this idea.
@@MagicPrepper Just switch the direction of the handle to the left instead of the right or put it behind a mag pouch to pull straight up, accessible from either left or right hand.
I don't have the most experience with CQC knife fighting, but I have heard from numerous people with a ton of experience in that realm that having multiple conspicuous knives is a bad idea as you want one hand preventing access to your sidearm and the other to create distance with your knife to allow you to finish the fight with your sidearm if necessary. With multiple knives, you create a dangerous potential outcome if your assailant gets access to the other knife given the fight goes to the ground or you create any openings to it. My way to carry a secondary knife is to use a smaller fighting oriented knife that conceals below another pouch molle that prevents it from being noticed unless you know where it is. Based on what I have been told by who I have trained with, having two full size is more dangerous than it is worth IMHO. Aside from that, nice setup thus far. I like the variety and adaptability your kit offers with or without supplemental kits to accommodate for other needs.
@@MagicPrepper yeah. I hauled plates around for a bit and my conclusion is unless you are kicking doors and doing the things its better to be able to go prone or get up and over / through barriers easier. That said i have both as well
On your holsters take out the plug so if you get water or brass in the holster it can fall through on the camelback I've ran some kind of pack attached to the PC for awhile I've reacently changed it up to a slick back with just carrying a small pack separate from the plate carrier it just makes life easier getting into the pack and getting into vehicles in my opinion. All in all a good setup 👌 appciate the video magic
What would make Umerica even better would be if we didn't have to arm-up for our neighbors, in the first place (In reality, I don't think we'll have to worry too much anyway, as old, dead-ass and lazy as our society is, anyway, most people will probably just commit suicide).
I like most of what you've done. I would recommend a couple things. 1. downsize and relocate your knives. the GIANT kabar you have on the belt is completely oversized and should be replaced with the knife that on your front panel. Consider a way of attaching a knife to the inside of the cummerbund. 2. You have a lot of weight on your hips with that battle belt, I would recommend getting suspenders to go with it to help keep the weight off of your hips. also if you don't like it being 2 piece they do sell 1 piece "war belts" that could suit your needs. 3. I recommend replacing the pistol/rifle combo taco pouch and the GP pouch on the belt with a spiritus systems JSTA pouch and a wiseman company 1R1 insert for it. you get a small sized gp pouch but also a pistol and rifle mag pouch in the same slots of MOLLE on the belt without losing mag or gp space. it may not be as big to hold as much stuff but consider you may be using a backpack. 4. Finally, I'm sure you already plan to upgrade your radio/TQ combo pouch, However, consider moving it if possible. With all that stuff on your right side, your pistol draw will be impeding it. I learned this myself the hard way in training. I'm overall impressed with what you have and happy to see you training and being prepared. We need WAY more men like you if America is to survive the next decade. Hope my critiques help!
I'd say its good breach gear if you're planning of confrontation and have a support group to back you up. Otherwise I think its really important that the load out be situational and probably grey man 98 percent of the time.
You have put a lot of thought into what you might need. It's clear your gear isn't based on ridiculous or unrealistic ideas. As someone who spent years in the Middle East, and countless hours wearing gear and pistol belts, here are some ideas; 1) Get an assault pack. I can't begin to tell you how useful it is to stow extra gear and lighten your vest. 2) Lose the Ka-Bar for something lighter. I love Ka-Bars, but it's too much. 3) Consider a stainless steel canteen and canteen cup. You can use purification tablets and you can boil water in the cup. Keep it in the assault pack. 4) Pain relievers - Even over-the-counter Motrin or Tylenol can help you through sickness or injury. 5) Compression/pressure bandages, sometimes called "Israeli" bandages. Tourniquets are great, but I would say you would reach for a bandage more often.
A couple notes for your setup: 1. Bladders blow. I'm guilty of this too, but for SHTF you NEED more durable water storage. Having a higher capacity bladder stored in a bag to plus up is good, but on the carrier itself it takes too much abuse. I'm gonna be experimenting with a qore performance Iceplate in their IMS attached to the back of my Agilite K19, I think it should be thin enough that I can still strap my AMAP pack or my larger bug out bag over it as well as retain my ability to get into a vehicle without any real issues. Since taking the Iceplate out to fill it would be basically impossible without removing my carrier I'm gonna get a QD for my hydration hose with a fill adapter so I can fill it from a faucet, hose, or water bottle. Even if you don't wanna get that fancy it's a good idea to have a solid water container like a nalgene, and preferably you do actually have a space for it on your belt in case you have to ditch your carrier. I'm currently running an Arbor Arms stowable Nalgene pouch on my belt setup currently but I don't keep the bottle in it unless I actually plan on using it, in which case doubles as a dump pouch. 2. Love having a get-off-me knife, but don't really love that it's dangling on the front of your carrier like that because that's basically begging for the guy you would hypothetically want to stab with it to come up and take it and stab you instead. At minimum get it off your centerline and secure the holster a bit tighter to the carrier, at best try to tuck it into or behind your cummerbund if possible. There are tons of ways to do it some of which are products and some DIY, you can even just use shock cord if it comes down to it, but that is a quick fix for something that will very easily kill you. Also gives you more room on the upper front of your carrier for other stuff if you need it, especially if you end up with an ATAK or something 3. This one's a small one, but I wouldn't use a headlamp that has a white light option at all for admin unless there is a physical red lens you cover it with, and even then probably not. I saw the garand thumb video where he mentions it as well, but for me if there's even the slightest possibility I turn on white light when I don't want it, then I'm gonna avoid it because negligent discharges of white light at night are guaranteed to bring people right to your location if they're looking to hurt you, even if they don't have NODs. Also, clip a microfiber cloth to the front of your carrier somewhere so you can clean the headlamp as well as your optics or other lenses or screens you may get dirty. 4. This one isn't a criticism of your kit itself but of its ability to expand for more items you're looking toward in the future. Your belt has nearly no space left whatsoever, and your carrier does have space left but it's limited to the middle/back of the cummerbund which in many cases is hard to reach and manipulate. Consider ways in which can actually place your loadout better (which I know is fucking hard with 308 mags but can be done) on both the belt and carrier to free up space while still giving you the functionality you're looking for. For your belt you might reclaim a few rows of molle by switching to a True North adapter to hold your QLS mount for your holster. A lot of guys swear by that thing because of just how much it clamps itself onto your belt even in such a small form factor as well as the huge range of adjustability, and there are some good addons for it if you want them as well. As with the placement of your other knife, I suggest moving it if you can get comfortable with a different placement. You don't wanna have it in that spot in case you fall back and land on it because while it won't stab you inside its holster it can still very much hurt your back which is really bad in SHTF. I would put mine vertical either in front or behind my holster depending on what other stuff I'm carrying. Between those two fixes your belt opens up massively for more gear like a radio pouch in case you need to keep your coms but not use your carrier, a water container or a spot for your NODs when you get them while they're not on your head or helmet. As for your carrier, take advantage of the space you have in front. Don't bulk it out to the point where you can't go prone anymore, but tacos are pretty thin so with some ingenuity you can get all your admin stuff up in front without too much tactical girth added on. 5. This is another space critique, you don't have a dangler. Some people really don't like them but when they're done well they don't get in your way whatsoever and give you some much needed extra space, and some even function as fanny packs if you need to be a bit more covert. I also don't have a dangler, but that's because I have a different frontal storage solution that would just get in the way in the form of an Arbor Arms Nut Ruck, the Jedburgh (their largest size) to be specific, attached OVER the buckle on my battle belt using some clips on either side. There's a lot of reasons I chose to go this route, too many to explain in my already enormous comment, but a regular dangler is good for most people and they come in so many sizes and varieties and feature sets that there's bound to be one out there you'll like And 6. This is my last one, if you have any chance whatsoever of working in a group of people in your SHTF scenario, do yourself a favor and get the Agilite Buddy Strap. There's a lot of different ways to attach it to your kit, and it's super super super super worth it to have if someone you're with gets injured in a capacity where it's still possible to save them if you have access to the right medical treatment. It turns your injured friend into a backpack to let you keep both your hands on your weapon, and is also much more comfortable for both parties involved than fireman's carry and much more safe and efficient than having 4 guys pick up a stretcher as long as the injured person doesn't have spinal trauma. You can also do this with Tubular Nylon but the actual setup to do so is more involved, not as adjustable, and typically doesn't fit in many spots on kit that well without a little DIY magic. However, it's also lighter than the buddy strap and is multifunctional to a degree so if that's more important to you than the conveniences of the buddy strap then go for that instead, but either way if you plan on having teammates you need a way to extract them if they get injured You've reached the end of my long ass comment. If you took the time to read all this, that's cool, if not thats cool too. I love watching loadout videos to get my own ideas flowing in how I can improve my kit, and I love helping others do the same. Great work
Thanks for all of the suggestions! I've honestly made quite a few changes since this video came out and many of them are in line with this thought process. I appreciate it!
Yea... a 308 rifle has advantages but it is very very limited, you should have either a 5.56 or a .300 blackout rifle, it is way way more practical... you can carry way more ammo on your rig and still not be weighted down... in a urban fire fight where rapid fire may be needed a .308 rifle over heats very very fast... in a urban type environment a smaller caliber will have way more advantages, in the amount of ammo you can carry and the amount of ammo you can shoot rapidly in close quarters... .308 would be great option in a wide open long range type of environment... :) everything else you have looks good...
One quick tip that has to do with your gloves: Make sure to put them with the fingers pointed upwards so when it snows, the snow won't get in them and so they're easier to grab when needed
I showed one of the latest videos on this channel to a buddy of mine - the recent one with this "Bear" fellow. My buddy, an ER trauma surgeon who spent the first 20 years of his career in Detroit, was surprised to hear some Larping wannabe stolen valor chump claims to know more than he dose about treating trauma. unreal.
Stolen valor? Bear has never claimed to be in the military……and there have been plenty of medical professionals that have come out and said his classes provide great value…..of course he’s not gonna be as experienced as an ER trauma surgeon but that’s not even in the realm of what he’s teaching……he’s teaching first responders the skills to try and help save a life by being prepared to administer enough first aid to get a severely injured person to someone like your “buddy” for proper treatment without them dying first…smh…..some of you people are unbelievable….and as far as the “larping” comment….go watch his videos…..he is not “larping”…..he’s actually out in the world doing things to help people in need after they’ve been affected by disasters……I’ve been watching him for years and I can promise you there is no pretending in what he does……if you don’t know what you’re speaking on then why speak at all?
@@RichiePo I know exactly on that which I am speaking. First of all, go watch the last video with "Bear" in it. Second, Bear is the type of person who would NOT correct you if you assumed he served and would almost never qualify his "training advice" with a statement clarifying his lack of actual trauma experience, militaristic or otherwise. Why are you so defensive about someone else's opinion of a YT content creator?
I would highly suggest switching to a lighter weight 556 rifle. Most likely if your are all kitted up say maybe getting supplies or doing different missions 90% of combat will be close quarters. A 308 which I also use will be sitting at home base where I would be more likely to take longer range shots. Depending what I’m doing I’d run different rifles but 99% of the time 556. If you wanna talk more about it let me know. Keep up the good work!
Overt high vis loadouts have their place and it's good to train with it but don't let it distract from other skills like land nav (map and gps), basic hand to hand combat, weapon retention skills ( pistol and rifle), team tactics (if you have one), familiarization with LEO and military patrolling and checkpoints (how they work and how to avoid), and most importantly transitional kit - if things begin to collapse it's more likely to be local before regional or National, and gray man techniques will prove essential earlier on. It's more likely a button down shirt and ccw will be ur best friend to get home and shelter in place before any heavy kit should come out.
Really good video!!!...You have a down to earth, every guy style and that really makes learning from you enjoyable...I'm making my way through your older videos. It would be interesting to learn why you picked your homestead and any research you did before acquiring your homestead. I'm in the process of getting ready to relocate from the Northeast and would appreciate any info on your choice in location. Thank you..keep the great content coming!
Hey thanks Kyle I appreciate it! Just trying to figure stuff out without having the professional background. I chose where I am now due to circumstance mostly. Do what you can with what you have where you are they say!
Thought out pieces of kit. I would recommend swapping dump pouch real estate to Full ifak. So that way at any given time if I just have time to grab my carrier I have full med on board. Recommendation throw your tan K-Bar on the belt and look for a smaller blade for your carrier i.e. SOCP dagger for those last resort situation.
I love seeing another American being prepared for the worst! I think it's a great kit! My only reccomendations.... I would add a dedicated SMALL backpack for the camelback, extra survival supplies, and some of the non-immediately essential gear. That way, if things go off the rails, you can ditch the pack in a gunfight and really up your movement ability. Also, ditch one of the two knives. The added weight isnt worth it in my book. Final suggestion, add a leatherman on the front of the belt. You will never realize how much you use it until you have one easily available.
Only thing I'd say is grab you a small plate carrier bag that has a slot for you water blatter with a large compartment and small compartment so you can carry more food as well as more supplies
Biggest thing I learned in the marine corps is to keep the back of the carrier slick. Don’t ditch the water just start to use a small “assault pack” with your camel back and snackies. While we all focus on the run and gun you spend a lot of time with a larger pack on your back, or trying to sit/drive and that bladder makes all of the regular stuff annoying or explodes under the weight of your pack.
I would definitely consider the 556 platforms as others have mentioned. Mainly, additional ammo forthe same weight and quicker follow shots due to less recoil. I was considering the Garand Thumb Peztl idea until I came across the Streamlight Sidewinder Compact II. It comes with a head strap, quick detach helmet mount, and mounts directly to molle so it won't flop around like the Peztl. It also has white, blue, red, and IR light so you can use it once you get the NODs! I am running the Beofeng radio as well but it with an Inviso in-ear headset/mic for the minimalist/grey-man look. They are pretty affordable for what they offer on the bay.
Great video, one suggestion that I have is regarding the knife/sheath on your belt. Placing it on your lower back can have some severe consequences. One bad fall and you could potentially be out of the fight. Once those ligaments are damaged there's no going back.
One thing to point out, sometimes it may be easier to transition to pistol when going through a door that it is to move around the rifle that takes those few extra seconds. Another thing that I have on my PC is an ID patch I ordered from Amazon. They are custom and can be seen using night vision, similar to glint tape but with a name or number and such. It also allows for quicker recognition as your group grows. These patches will be next to impossible to get in a SHTF. I carry a small solar power bank, and I am switching to Baofeng batteries that can be charged via USB cable. I did a video on this not long ago. It allows for you to be in the field longer while running your comms 24hrs a day. Plus it will work to charge flashlights. Another thing I carry on my gear are energy gels made for runners. They have all you need plus caffeine. Search running gels.
I have made 2 comments. I keep thinking about the video. For the most part ur on point. I just realized what was bugging Mr. U need some kind of optic bino's or a monocular to allow u to look at distances. Also learn not to profile on a hill top. Some people will just say look thru ur scope. If ur out and about and ur weapon is slung. Looking thru the scope is a pain. Also if u happen to be looking st someone looking at u. It's completely different if u lookingbat each other with bino's and not pointing a weapon at each other.
I would like to have a AR chambered in .350 Winchester Ledgend. It’s a straight walled cartridge. It doesn’t have the range that a 5.56 or a .308 . It is quite adequate for self defense and deer hunting. It just seems like a practical weapon for my style of prepping and area. As far as your plate carrier set up I want to set mine similar. I already have my gun belt set up other then I may add more pistol mag pouches. I need a couple more CAT tourniquets. Matter of fact I’m picking up a few this weekend . I have padded inner belt I’m thinking about going with a Velcro inner belt I like it being stationary. Although I don’t have a battle rifle . I have my gear set up to be universal as far as the long arm I carry. If I carry a bolt gun I’m ready or if I do a shotgun. I’m not gearing myself for battle just defending myself and survival. Although I may end up with a AR at some point.
I have a 350 Legend chambered AR. One thing to consider is, many will jam and jam a lot. It's not the best or ideal AR round, but it does hit hard. I built mine from various manufacturers, but most of the jamming issues come from magazines and feed ramps. A single large feed ramp works better than the 300blk feed ramps. The Duramags tend to jam more so than the cmmg mags. I've had good luck with the Wilson combat Lancer mags for the 350, which is really an altered 300 blk mag. Another issue is, finding reliable 20 round magazines. The WC lancers are 15 rds, but they are expensive compared to the 20 round duramags. For hunting, I think the 350 Legend is definitely a great cartridge but it offers little advantage to those who live in area's where a bottle neck cartridge can be used, so therefore maybe a 300blk or 5.56 may be the better option. For strictly defensive purposes, I'd stick with 5.56.
My recommendation on your load out would be. 1. Take everything off your cummerbund. Put the radio where the dump pouch is located. And if you want to put the tourniquet on you left side of the cummerbund, you can. Keeping the right side of your cummerbund clear is important because if you need to go for your pistol.... you don't want anything in the way. 2. Take your glover from the belt and hook it to your hsgi mag shock cord. It'll clear up room on the belt for a tourniquet or a flash light. If you want to hook it on your belt. 3. Your pistol holster is hanging way too low. If you watch the end of this video, when you are running the pistol is bouncing all over the place. Get a higher safariland holster mount. 4. On your battle rifle you can put a magpul picatinny rail at the 6 o'clock and get a quick detach bi pod so your rifle wouldn't be so front heavy.
I've been toying with matching my sidearm & rifle caliber so I only need to carry 1 caliber. Like a 19x & a Beretta CX4 Storm or a 5.7x28 handgun with a PS90. Ultra lightweight & super effecient with ammo compatibility, but you sacrifice having rifle ballistics. Just comes down to how you choose to save weight. You save a massive amount of weight with the 5.7x28 loadout, not quite as much with the 9mm, but still lighter.
I trained yesterday w/a full kit (Plates/Chest Rig w/camelbak), something I hadn't done in over a year, and discovered something that was concerning...it took several mags before I regained confidence/familiarity shooting w/such a load. Shooting accurately, sans kit, is easy, but load 25+#s on to your body and toss in some push-ups, you'll swear you're shooting a turkey gun...you'll be surprised at how groupings open up.
Hello. I am relatively new to this and not being former military I’ll keep my comment to what I am qualified to speak to. I would suggest having a good compass in your kit. It looks like you have a Garmin watch which is great (I have two of them) but if there is an EMP or it dies for any other reason you will need a backup means of navigation. Just my two cents. We really enjoy your vids; keep up the great work!
We used water bladder packs when I was in Search & Rescue and they are great when new for a month or two but cleaning doesn't alway sanitize the hose/bit valve well enough and they can quickly become disgusting. My experience, I don't feel they are worth the expense. Cheap coms in the field break and fail quickly. Money well spent is on good quality boots, under wear, socks, hot, cold and wet weather clothing. You could be in them for a very long time. Foot care first aid. Your done if your not mobile. This is what I found being in the bush for days on end or longer. It took years to train and be proficient at it so keep up the good work.
Magic, sincerely- u hung out with the best on u toob. Rex , bear ,Shield. Mimic. I don't know enough but I learn from those I believe. I believe u. Southern preper, pinball prep ect i believe. 2 others , logoncabin and green Gregs farm. All together make an incredible team. Id love to work side by side with all of u and your family's. There's great people amongst great people. Maybe u all don't see it but I certainly do. We can fix this county/ problem together. Each brings something different and strong to the table. U don't need to believe but u should know u r needed. 👏👍🙏🙏🙏💪
Good video. On your plate carrier I would run the right side bare so nothing can interfere with drawing your pistol. I would move the knife to beside or behind the magazine because if you are on your back and someone is on top of you it is easier for them to stop you drawing your knife when it is mounted on your chest. I really like the camel back. On your belt I would add a small flashlight to your pouch, I like the Stream lights that can use either a CR123 battery or a AA battery. The flash light is the item I most frequently use. I would add a O-ring to the lighter under the fuel button to keep it from being depressed and a small ferro rod. You are running very heavy guns, but you are a large guy. If it works for stick with it. I would go for the 320 Vtac because it is lighter and if you have to rip a magazine out of your pistol the magwell on the Legion can make it hard to get a grip on the mag. I will sometime run a 6.5 Grendel if I want more range and power than a 5.56, but at the same weight.
