A load bearing vest is your second best friend when trying to navigate the perils of the battlefield – your weapon system being number one, of course. You might have to use issue gear, but probably you are able to customize your loadout with pouches and such. If you can wear your own stuff, make sure your combat vest and its accessories are warproof, as your life definitely depends on it. Do not cheap out!

Using your own gear has all sorts of benefits – you have the same kit everywhere you go, at every training exercise, course, force on force drill, and everything you do on your own to hone those individual skills. This way you learn to use your gear, and how to operate while wearing them. When you have worn your gear everywhere and through everything, you’ll know what works best for you and what does not, and you can adjust your kit accordingly.

Modular tactical vests are easy to put together. Just attach MOLLE pouches on the PALS webbing, and that’s about it. A military tactical vest usually has pouches for magazines, first aid gear, grenades, and such. Utility pouches expand the combat vest for carrying other mission critical items.