Field-tested picks

Gear that survived the field.

The stuff that made it home after the field problem, the ruck, and the inspection. No gimmicks, nothing "tactical" just for the label.

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What I actually carried

Eighteen years in, these are the ones I bought with my own money and kept using after the novelty wore off.

Pack

Mystery Ranch 2 Day Assault Pack

My everyday carry. Three-zip opening means I find the thing I need without unpacking my whole life on the hood of a vehicle.

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Mystery Ranch 3 Day Assault Pack

For when "it's just an overnight" turns into three days. It carried the load, and my back still speaks to me.

View on Amazon → Socks

Darn Tough Boot Socks

I have worn Darn Tough boot socks through more ruck miles than I care to count. Lifetime guarantee, which is longer than most of my boots lasted.

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Other gear worth the money

Notes

Rite in the Rain 3x5 Notebook

Writes in the rain, so you lose the excuse for not taking notes at the brief.

View on Amazon → Tool

Leatherman Wave+

Eighteen tools, and somebody will still borrow it to open an MRE.

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Rothco GI-Type Poncho Liner

The woobie. Blanket, pillow, emotional support. Do not ask for it back.

View on Amazon → Light

Black Diamond Spot 400 Headlamp

Has red light mode, so you can stop blinding the whole tent at 0400.

View on Amazon → Feet

Dr. Scholl's Moleskin Plus Roll

Ruck march insurance. Cheaper than the walk to sick call.

View on Amazon → Nav

RedVex Ranger Pace Counter Beads

For when the GPS dies and land nav goes back to counting steps.

View on Amazon → Water

Nalgene 32 oz Wide Mouth

Hydrate or die. The stickers are where the personality goes.

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Gold Bond Medicated Body Powder

No explanation needed. Anyone who's done a field problem in August already knows.

View on Amazon → Hands

Mechanix Wear M-Pact Gloves

Knuckle armor for every detail where someone says it'll only take five minutes.