I have seen some really crappy gunhandling at matches; wear your plates.
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I have seen some really crappy gunhandling at matches; wear your plates.
Just don't wear it and try to shoot me while I'm in uniform and we're good. Have fun, we're not North Korea.
I guess that's really all I have to say on the issue?
All of these are such great points. Especially the not getting shot in the chest by a stray bullet! Makes me want to get one tomorrow.
I just dont want to look like I am trying to be military or LE when I am not. Don't want to be that guy. Nobody likes that guy. I appreciate all of the input you guys have given me. It is something I will look into.
As you go about your gear buying expedition and ponderings, nibble on this:
Professionals don't make fun of the civilian dude that can shoot, has decent gear, has applicable gear, and knows what the **** he is doing with it.
The people that get embarrassed are those that don't.
Figure out how to wear it properly (plate placement, etc.), and you're already ahead of 80% of people who are issued them. Don't hang stuff off it you don't use (not just for appearance, don't because it's smarter), and from their focus on not replicating every public range stunt that makes you want to wear a plate carrier at the range to begin with.
Honestly, the best designs for civilian applications are the ones that look the least military. A relatively slick plate carrier in a solid color is cheaper and more practical than the sort of wannabe kit you're trying to avoid, so simply focusing on having the capability you need and leaving behind the weight, cost, and hassle of unneeded items.
I tried to set mine up like what Pat Rogers recommends, so just a kangaroo triple pouch, TQ, and a BFG 10-speed on the back. I'll get some photos of it later today.
I think the line gets crossed when I see folks in classes wearing full on CIRAS rigs with pouches all over it, as civilians. At some point you went from "protection" to full retard. That said, I wouldn't own armor if it weren't for a few upcoming classes, so I could go either way on NEEDING it or not.