bbk

Why don't we push harder too... finish the "freedom tower"? Wouldn't that be the ultimate insult/salvation/redemption? For the American people to get knocked down, push past the bureaucratic BS, and, in honor of the fallen, complete such a project? Simply throwing barbs and small insults seems kind of stupid in the big picture.

You've obviously never have seen "the road" have you? After 40 years without cleaning that mosin will still allow me to hunt, i dont know how long an AR would last. You'd have to stock up on cleaning supplies, greases and spare parts, whereas all i'll need is spam cans...and windex. While its optimal to have actual cleaner/lube like CLP or slip, there can be many substitutes (WD40, Vaseline, etc). With emerging tech, ARs are proving to not be as finicky as people assume them to be (fail zero treatments as an example). I will agree that there is no doubt that MNs and other mil surplus have greater tolerances, and I can definitely appreciate that. But I could imagine it would be as equally difficult to find Windex or even hot water as it would be to find some type of lubrication for an AR (yes, even hot water).

This is why I was suggesting body armor and the rig as two separate systems in my earlier posts. I have the same general experience; and, like most/all units, my kit was more mission-oriented (more mobility then firepower). Regardless, unless someone is a part of a larger unit, and they are about to undertake a prolonged firefight, I don't see the point of carrying more than 6-8 magazines max (this is with 5.56/.223 in mind, not 7.62/.308). I know there are some people who would carry a whole armory on them if they could (and in theory it'd be for the best), but on average 120 rounds suffices. Of course since we're in NJ, and our magazines at most can carry 15, that is the reason why I say 6-8 max instead of some rigs I've seen that carry 12+. Again, I don't say there is anything wrong with carrying 12+, but pounds equal pain (argument of mobility vs. firepower).

I don't know about specific systems, but the tactical community is starting to use a lot of comp tactics... still, agreed, "its not the arrow..."

Heh, I was talking about chest rigs, not plate carriers. Of course PCs are going to have plenty of room for all of that stuff with the expansive real estate. Chest rigs on the other hand often do not have any space except for the necessities (mag pouches, and maybe 1 GP). As I've said, its all preference. I have a PC and chest rig for different conditions (as every situation is mission-oriented).

It really comes down to preference. While there is more freedom of movement with chest rigs, plate carriers are not as bulky/clumsy as people think. Further, finding a chest rig that has room for GPs (general purpose [pouches]) and hydration (in the form of a MOLLE attachable bladder pouch) are either rare or expensive (and/or both). Wearing a low-vis/profile plate carrier, like this: http://www.skdtac.com/Eagle_Low_Vis_Arm ... ag.566.htm And then wearing a chest rig over, like the MAV from TT: http://www.tacticaltailor.com/mav-modul ... vests.aspx While it would be hot, and take some time getting use too, the advantage is supreme. While these could work in conjunction (similar to the current deployment setup for USA-- US Army), they could also be used as separate systems. Say, going to the range (as no range is safe from asshattery), you can wear low-vis BA. And if you do paintball or are in a situation where you don't necessarily need the BA, then the MAV has its use. IMO, this might be a better alternative then buying a genuine battle-rattle plate carrier, as they can run 400+ (not including pouches, etc). That low-vis BA vest is $110, the MAV is $60-72, and then of course you would have to include pouches and BA. Which, all together might run you about the cost of just an aforementioned plate carrier. Disclaimer: I'm discussing this topic with the naivity that you can obtain body armor in a legal fashion, and that it would be used in a legal fashion. I do not, and would not, ever advocate committing any type of crime with BA, and I believe what I've shared reflects that. Also understand that I'm speaking from the perspective of someone in the military (as your question was rooted in a "SHTF" scenario, and not necessarily every day life), and my advice is based on that. Of course its not normal to walk around with BA/chest rig, but in a hypothetical situation, its not unreasonable to ask. Of course this opens up the topic to "overt vs. covert in a SHTF situation" (whether a person should keep a low profile or more open profile; how that would impact them and the perception of them; whether it would act as a deterrent or sh-t magnet; etc).

You have the right idea. There are some grunts here who could probably give you a better break down, but generally speaking that's how the configuration has generally worked (body armor + MOLLE bib). With the popularity of MOLLE though, many plate carriers now double their duties, and people put pouches directly on those systems. Honestly, you don't want to lug around hard plates. If you're that concerned, get soft armor, and a chest rig or battle belt config. If you need something that stops higher powered rounds, you're probably in a situation that you won't get out of in one piece. Pounds equal pain. My disclaimer: I do prefer the feel of plate carriers compared to chest rigs. I have used both in the field, and, simply, carriers are my personal preference-- so, I'm not questioning that. Instead, I'm just saying you probably don't need a plate carrier + plates.

G20?

And I was a part of that convo too, jeez, my apologies for bringing it up again. It seems like it'd be GTG, but yea, I'm not going to put myself through that hassle at this point. What really intrigues me about the BC is that if I ever had to use my rifle in-doors in an HD scenario, I wouldn't inadvertently daze myself. And, on a normal basis, at the range, esp indoors, I'm not a PITA to everybody else. I didn't realize how loud my current brake is until my buddy took a go at it. Oh well, sorry for bringing it up again. Hopefully we'll hear something definitive soon.

To add, if you really want some space-age stuff, Spikes Tactical is selling some interesting BCGs. Along with the default type, they have hard chrome and nickel boron (which utilizes the vaunted Fail Zero treatment). Far too expensive for me considering they would probably be backups ($175 and $225 respectively), though I would love to try out a BCG with the Fail Zero treatment. As for staking, as it was said, its probably one of the more important things to look at when getting a BCG. Even if its not staked properly, you can do it yourself (there are plenty of do-it-your-self guides on vetted forums).

I'm sure a good number of you have heard about the Battle Comp 1.0 from BCE. I've read through the pages and pages on M4C and AR15 (and other random links on the interwebz), and the word seems to be that the manufacturers cannot confirm whether or not the Battle Comp is NJ legal: (In response to a question from rauchman, a member here as well): Has anybody contacted NJSP or any other authorities regarding the legality of the comp? I'm holding out for the 1.5 (as I have 14.5bbl), but I don't want to get my hopes up if its not legal to began with. TIA.

I'm a big fan of stippling myself, and its about time a company came out with some OEM grips for pistols. Its a far better fit, IMO, then rubber grips or a sleeve because its abrasive without feeling totally alien. And in the case of sleeves, it doesn't totally change the grip on the pistol.

So, basically its stippling?

Yea, its a funky design. If I recall, it is an original Magpul design that was replaced on the public market by the UBR model. The stock in the picture is either an iteration of one of the two, the M93A and M93B Carbine stock, both which were a part of the MSS projects (Modular Stock System). Pretty high speed stuff, and a PDF describing it in full can be found here: http://www.magpul.com/pdfs/mss_m93b.pdf

Should be interesting, and I might be check it out if I can somehow carve my way through the humidity that has me moving like molasses. From my understanding, this type of phenomenon (the lights) is not a good thing (considering it's a by product of some harmful stuff). So, if the lights go out for good, I guess 'good luck'

I would recommend Mechanix too. I've been using Hatch gloves forever, though I am probably due for some new ones-- and would probably go with Mechanix myself.

I use gloves depending on the weather. If its rainy and/or cold out, I would. I have experienced cold, but not wet yet at my outdoor range (though I have in all climates in my previous life). Ultimately, I really don't wear gloves for "shooting" per se, but for the other conditions I might deal with (like the weather, or if I'm going to be on the move and have to use my hands to navigate around, etc). But if I knew I might ever shoot with gloves on, I think it would be good to at least practice a bit as it changes up a bit.

Small bottle of CLP, a rag, a rod (in case I need to poke that crappy steel cased ammo if I happen to be shooting it that day), multi-tool, small notebook, pens, extra batteries, adjustment tools (for sights, optics, etc), flash light, tape, extra ear/eye pro, and some other things I'm forgetting probably. On the outside, on the shoulder strap, is where I keep my other two pairs of ear pro.

+1 for Colorado. There are some towns that are trying to NJify themselves, but CO in general has their minds in the right place (and the citizens are vehement about this-- which is obvious considering the amount of active duty, NG, Reserves, Vets, and defense contractors are out there). As for the state, DTC is booming-- as is the population and business. And whether its the plains or the mountains, Colorado has either. If you're a shore/ocean kind of person, it can get a bit boring... but I personally loved waking up to the sun coming over the plains, and setting over the Rockies. And during the spring and summers, seeing the storms out to the east in Nebraska and Kansas was really something... in the pitch black, you would see flashes of lightning (kind of reminded me of mortar fire at night)-- but no thunder... quite spooky at first, but pretty amazing.

Playing devil's advocate, what if regular Joe, a US-born citizen, happened to forget his wallet for whatever dumb reason, and is pulled over. The officer then asks for proof of immigration status; and even though the vehicle might be insured to Joe's name-- it couldn't be verified because he doesn't have his wallet (no photo ID like a DL or CAC). What measures could be taken by the authorities at that point? (Aside from getting a ticket or whatnot for failure to exhibit documents.) I'm all for clamping down on illegal immigration, but I'm just curious where that thin line is drawn. The overwhelming sentiment in regards to this topic reminds me faintly of the feeling towards the PATRIOT Act. While the PATRIOT Act was/is a hell of a tool utilized towards a specific mission, the public, and I've seen it first hand, has seen how it can be abused (albeit most of the abuse was coming from the Federal level, and not the local [AFAIK]). I'm sure Joe in the prior example would be fine as soon as he was able to prove he's a US born citizen (or naturalized, or on a legit visa, etc)-- but what would his treatment be like between the time he's suspected of being an alleged illegal to when he can prove he's legit? And, ultimately this is where the argument lies, would an individual of certain backgrounds be asked certain questions or be more suspected then individuals of the more dominant groups? I'm not saying that the system is racist, blah blah blah-- I'm simply pointing something out that is on the minds of people (namely minorities). Of course everything lies in what the law states (which I'm not fully versed). I'm not trying to interpret or point out deficiencies or anything of the sort. I'm simply curious what this generic (and plausible) scenario would possibly result, as it could have far-reaching implications beyond just illegal immigration, but policing society as a whole.

I've never heard of 'camo' sights. You could always rattle can stock sights to match though. If you do, just make sure to not color the sights themselves-- best to keep them black so they're actually useful.

I support my knife guys. Regardless of application, there seems to be plenty of interest (to include classes from MDTS). However, I do agree that maybe it should be a subforum under 'Accessories' etc. I think this for the same reason sirsloop stated-- to not dilute the forum too much. But hey, I trust the mods will come to the best solution.

I ran an HWS, switched to an Aimpoint, but have the Millet DMS 1 as my backup (run it with the PEPR mount too). Pretty solid, clear glass... but it's a bit long compared to other variable power scopes, meaning it's a bit heavy (with mount, almost 2 lb). SHTF, I would probably throw it on my AR, or at least consider it strongly (pounds are pain unfortunately).

I'm pretty sure this is how the show had it planned from the get-go. I mean, how could they honestly do drama-filled team competitions (and possible eliminations) with a team consisting of two? I think Tara leaving early did throw a bit of a wrench in there, and forced them to change some things around. Regardless, this is when it should get interesting-- and I'm looking forward to how it works out. I think JJ has it, with Blake, Chris, and Kelly in the running. My darkhorse pick is Peter.

Manbearpig As for coyotes, gosh, I freaked for a second the other night when I thought I heard some (turns out it was a couple foxes). Still, nothing more annoying then a swarm of prairie dogs. Good thing we don't get that infestation here.