View Full Version : What do you consider necessary to have in your weapons system?
I've noticed a peculiarity on gun boards, albeit to a lesser degree on this one. Everyone talks about the weapon, ammo, and training, but few talk about the system of parts, tools, and accessories required to sustain operations with said weapon. To me, the rifle and the technology mounted on it are only a small part of the big picture of what's needed for an AR-15.
Below is my list of what I consider my weapon "system," in no particular order. My goal is that, should SHTF, everything needed to run and maintain my AR is ready to go in one location.
Hard Pelican case with custom-cut foam
Soft rifle case (for short-term transportation)
Cleaning supplies (Namely CLP, Eezox, SLiP 2000, trigger grease)
A good cleaning rod, stored with AR in hard case
Spare batteries for optics
Torque wrenches (for both optics and minor weapon assembly, such as muzzle-device installation)
Spare Pmags (6x 30 round magazines and 20 round magazines per AR - with cutouts for storage in the hard case, plus an additional 6 of each in reserve per AR)
LuLa loaders (not required, but it saves a ton of time)
A good sling (although I am currently slingless at the moment)
A log book for each upper and lower receiver, citing round counts and maintenance
Bipod (I prefer the Atlas)
Weapon-mounted light
Spare BCG/bolt, firing pins, receiver extension springs, buffer, and grips
Leatherman/AR multi-tool
Does anyone else have a similar setup? What do you consider integral to your AR system?
Make sure you have a vehicle to carry it all too, those Pelicans are going to be heavy...
"What do you consider integral to your AR system?"
Nothing but a basic le6920 a few extra mags and some ammo.
I have a long flight case with all that crap in it.
Except for the Pelican case... I don't know why that would be needed.
http://i210.photobucket.com/albums/bb201/trixiebud/brake2_zps7bd935e1.jpg
I have a long flight case with all that crap in it.
Except for the Pelican case... I don't know why that would be needed.
http://i210.photobucket.com/albums/bb201/trixiebud/brake2_zps7bd935e1.jpg
I got the Pelican simply because it was a known quality and there were several examples of setups available I could use to form my own. It's very easy to custom-cut the foam to store everything perfectly and keep it organized (as well as watertight in transit), whereas it's much harder to do with a soft case.
What kind of case is that (specifically, besides being a "flight case")?
http://www.guns.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/How-You-NEED-to-Outfit-Your-AR-15.jpg
proper attire and lots of skittles
What kind of case is that (specifically, besides being a "flight case")?
It's some Rhino somthing case. It was an equipment case for something unrelated that I made into my gear case. The foam in the lid holds a 1 pc DEWEY rod, and all the other crap is laid in there long rather than stacked so I can always get to crap without digging.
Heavy... but it works good.
Combat Rifle Accessories (http://www.everycitizenasoldier.org/id33.html)
I notice you don't have a way to carry all that stuff while actually in contact. Is it your intent to carry the pelican case with you while low crawling, firing and maneuvering etc?
This is what I consider my "go kit" actually the pic needs to be updated but am waiting on some new stuff
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v453/currahee/MGL2A_zps60f8c087.jpg
it all fits in here- I think all my "tactical gear" should be in one place and ready to go (this is stored next to my safe) preferably in something that doesn't scream GUN very loudly
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v453/currahee/MGL3A_zps95da0744.jpg
Custom cut pelican case foam is a liability more than useful. It looks cool and is functional when s doesn't htf, but I'd rather not waste all that space for very specific items.
You'd be better off getting a soft case that perfectly fits into your pelican. Larue has such a system (storm case actually, but owned by pelican).
Custom cut pelican case foam is a liability more than useful. It looks cool and is functional when s doesn't htf, but I'd rather not waste all that space for very specific items.
That's my thought exactly. I suppose they have a place for travel/flight... but regular use, not so much.
I notice you don't have a way to carry all that stuff while actually in contact. Is it your intent to carry the pelican case with you while low crawling, firing and maneuvering etc?
That's actually what I'm currently working on. I'm still in the research mode, but I'm open to suggestions. I'm still debating between belt vs a vest-based system (leaning towards belt).
Any suggestions?
Although, it looks like you've got more of a bug-out-bag than a weapons loadout. I try to keep stuff not directly related to my weapon in a sling bag (I'm currently using a 5.11 RUSH MOAB 10). My goal is that any weapon I have has it's own set of kit. That, coupled with my BOB bag, allows a bit of versatility between loadouts.
That's my thought exactly. I suppose they have a place for travel/flight... but regular use, not so much.
Not even for flight/travel. My issued m4 with optic and m9 sat in a pelican case with no cut outs, just sandwiched between two foam layers. I dragged that case through multiple airports, down and up gravel hills, palletized it a few times, and overall went through 5 different countries and 6 different types of aircraft.
Not a scratch (from baggage handling). Tons of scratches from every day use though.
The only use, imo, for custom cut foam at the individual level is to look cool.
Failure2Stop
05-30-13, 12:24
The classic definition of "system" is the base platform (rifle/carbine) and attached/attachable devices needed for employment.
The definition of "kit" is what is needed to maintain and store the system for a specified period of time. This usually includes user-capable repair parts that does not require specialized tools. A "kit" may or may not include equipment such as magazine pouches, depending on buyer intent.
The armorer's kit is what is needed to disassemble/assemble/repair all components at at a specific echelon of capability/responsibility.
So, my system is:
Carbine
Magazines
Day Optic
Night Optic
IR Laser
BUIS
Sling
Visible Light Device
My kit contains:
Hard Case (relatively unnecessary except for storage)
Soft Case
Cleaning Kit
Spare Bolt
Spare LPK
Batteries
Multitool
Armorer's Kit Contains:
Vice (attached to workbench)
Specialized Tools
Gauges
Sealants
Hammers
Punches
Roll-Pin starters
Files
Screw-Drivers
Hex and Torx Sets
Torque Wrench
Magnet
Pliers
Adjustable Wrenches
The only use, imo, for custom cut foam at the individual level is to look cool.
I've always looked at it as the "I watched too many Hit Man movies" case. ;)
I've always looked at it as the "I watched too many Hit Man movies" case. ;)
It does look pretty awesome. But I always wonder how they assemble a "sniper rifle" without tools and somehow it has amazing accuracy. I mean it's not an AR upper and lower, the barrel and optics also come off from the receiver in those movies.
pointblank4445
05-30-13, 12:46
it all fits in here- I think all my "tactical gear" should be in one place and ready to go (this is stored next to my safe) preferably in something that doesn't scream GUN very loudly
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v453/currahee/MGL3A_zps95da0744.jpg
I also put my gear in "discreet" bags/cases as not to draw attention to myself or vehicle, but I would be wary of using that DeWalt bag. Short of people leaving leaving purses/wallets or electronics (iPhones/iPods) in plain view, tools are probably one of the more popular items taken from vehicles in our area. Back when I worked as a general contractor, we were strongly encouraged to carve (not Sharpie) our initials into our DeWalt tools and note SN's so they'd be easier to find at the pawn shop later.
AlphaKoncepts
05-30-13, 13:07
Depends on the use of the rifle. My H.D. setup is different from my 3 gun setup and I am about to build an SPR... so load outs would be way different for each.
ridgerunner70
05-30-13, 13:16
I have a long flight case with all that crap in it.
Except for the Pelican case... I don't know why that would be needed.
http://i210.photobucket.com/albums/bb201/trixiebud/brake2_zps7bd935e1.jpg
I have access to cases like this in a variety of sizes. Never thought of this.
I have access to cases like this in a variety of sizes. Never thought of this.
They're priceless. I used to use the rubbermaid totes, but they just don't hold up.
I take this case, my deployment bag (pack), Targets, Ice chest, Guns of course,... and Shooting mat.
That's actually what I'm currently working on. I'm still in the research mode, but I'm open to suggestions. I'm still debating between belt vs a vest-based system (leaning towards belt).
Any suggestions?
Although, it looks like you've got more of a bug-out-bag than a weapons loadout. I try to keep stuff not directly related to my weapon in a sling bag (I'm currently using a 5.11 RUSH MOAB 10). My goal is that any weapon I have has it's own set of kit. That, coupled with my BOB bag, allows a bit of versatility between loadouts.
Thant is my go-to weapons bag, range bag, pack for a three gun match bag etc. The only thing in it not weapons related is an MRE for when I forget lunch at the range. There is some stuff in there that would get taken out of I was BOing.
As far as belt -vs- chest rig. I think low profile chest rig or bandoleer is the way to go. You should already have mag pouches and holster for your pistol and a comfortable way to carry it discretely. The chest rig + rifle is for when you want to go less discrete. I think 3-4 mags, BOK and com gear are what need to be on a chest rig, maybe a multitool or knife (if you don't already have that on your person). People will say it is quicker to put on a belt than a chest rig, but I find it's so close as to be a wash and if you factor in changing out of CCW first the chest rig wins hands down. Also- it is possible to add a couple of things (discrete rifle mag or BOK) to a decent belt without going overboard.
note: I have spare batteries, some spare parts and a clearing rod ON my rifle to keep it in the fight. My bag has some more, a couple of tools, and cleaning kit in it.
Good basic chest rigs...
SPECTER Gear (http://www.spectergear.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=266)
SKD/PIG (http://www.skdtac.com/PIG-UCR-Universal-Chest-Rig-p/pig.667.htm)
Blackhawk that I have been using for years (http://www.amazon.com/BLACKHAWK-Coyote-Chest-Magazine-Pouches/dp/B000U3FWQY/ref=cm_cr-mr-title)
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v453/currahee/permanent/DSCN7718.jpg
I also put my gear in "discreet" bags/cases as not to draw attention to myself or vehicle, but I would be wary of using that DeWalt bag. Short of people leaving leaving purses/wallets or electronics (iPhones/iPods) in plain view, tools are probably one of the more popular items taken from vehicles in our area. Back when I worked as a general contractor, we were strongly encouraged to carve (not Sharpie) our initials into our DeWalt tools and note SN's so they'd be easier to find at the pawn shop later.
I am wary of using that bag, it vary rarely leaves my sight- even when locked in the car. The main purpose is to get all the stuff in one place and to and from the car without screaming GUN.
Until I can get Hermione Granger to cast a spell on something for me it's what I've got.
pointblank4445
05-30-13, 13:39
I am wary of using that bag, it vary rarely leaves my sight- even when locked in the car. The main purpose is to get all the stuff in one place and to and from the car without screaming GUN.
Until I can get Hermione Granger to cast a spell on something for me it's what I've got.
Copy that; and the bottomless bag reference:jester:
Custom cut pelican case foam is a liability more than useful. It looks cool and is functional when s doesn't htf, but I'd rather not waste all that space for very specific items.
This is why I didn't get the traditional rifle pelican case (17xx). I went with a 1660 + padded 'photography' dividers, which are flexible and attached via velcro, so it's a dynamic setup and can fit much more than just a long gun, optic, and magazines. I need to square it away in terms of setup then I'll get some pics.
Recently got the Sneakybag CRB and it really blends in. Holds a SBR, a few mags, pistol, pistol mags, handheld light, IFAK, TQ, etc. without a problem.
ETA: in the midst of configuring the 'battle box' but here's an idea of what I've come up with. I still need to play with those removable dividers to get a nice snug fit, the uppers/lowers themselves might be loose no matter what so I'll probably wrap em in bubblewrap or something. Should be able to hold 2x broken down ARs, suppressors, magazines, 2-3k ammunition, pistol, plate carrier, first line belt, clothing, boots, tools/backup parts, med supplies, lights, batts, eyes, ears, etc. No idea how much it'll weigh when packed :) But I the idea of traveling with everything in one place.
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7319/8896219096_eefdbd1a7e_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/96608534@N06/8896219096/)
Pelican 1660 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/96608534@N06/8896219096/) by mmyers0520 (http://www.flickr.com/people/96608534@N06/), on Flickr
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8554/8895604215_ecca452fd9_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/96608534@N06/8895604215/)
Pelican 1660 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/96608534@N06/8895604215/) by mmyers0520 (http://www.flickr.com/people/96608534@N06/), on Flickr
http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2858/8896222652_44d01c91ee_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/96608534@N06/8896222652/)
Pelican 1660 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/96608534@N06/8896222652/) by mmyers0520 (http://www.flickr.com/people/96608534@N06/), on Flickr
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7355/8895594085_597ea0b6b3_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/96608534@N06/8895594085/)
Pelican 1660 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/96608534@N06/8895594085/) by mmyers0520 (http://www.flickr.com/people/96608534@N06/), on Flickr
DIRTMAN556
05-31-13, 14:25
Who makes your multicam plate carrier?
Munch is a door to door tactical salesman. :p
OP, that is a pretty extensive list. The only thing I would add is probably a "Huey Lewis and the News" CD and Sony Discman to get me pumped for action.
I have a 6-10 mags, Leatherman tool, a little bottle of lube and G.I. cleaning rod tossed in a small, soft lunch box they gave me at work.
The AR gets chunked on the floorboard behind the seat.
I've been through through a BUNCH of matches and quite a few classes with that setup. I have a lunch box for pistol stuff and one for carbine stuff.
If I had to travel via air, bus or other shared means of transportation, a case would be necessary.
If it's an important match or an expensive class I bring an extra AR or pistol. It shouldn't take a golf cart mounted suitcase loaded with 150lbs of shit to keep a rifle and a pistol running for a few mags and a couple of days.
Who makes your multicam plate carrier?
It's a TAG Banshee
Munch is a door to door tactical salesman. :p
'Knock knock'!
OP, that is a pretty extensive list. The only thing I would add is probably a "Huey Lewis and the News" CD and Sony Discman to get me pumped for action.
To be clear, this is for 2-3 training courses only. And would be the bugout box if I had time to grab it.
For most classes and events, I'd just grab the sneakybag.
And yeah I should include a Metallica or AC/DC CD and NO Explode for when I need to get amped. :sarcastic: :laugh:
I'm a big fan of non tactical bags / boxes. If you're driving somewhere and they see ammo cans, Pelicans, rifle cases, you are generating interest.
And I'm not talking about leaving your vehicle unattended, but you just opening your trunk for something else, or looking through the back windows (Truck, SUV).
I'm the gray man.
I'm a big fan of non tactical bags / boxes. If you're driving somewhere and they see ammo cans, Pelicans, rifle cases, you are generating interest.
And I'm not talking about leaving your vehicle unattended, but you just opening your trunk for something else, or looking through the back windows (Truck, SUV).
I'm the gray man.
Agreed. That's why I use this 90% of the time. But when traveling for training, you kinda have to use a larger hard case.
http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3671/9024457479_2c3ccf0167_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/96608534@N06/9024457479/)
In Iraq I had a cleaning kit, storage bag I ghetto rigged from my 3 day assault bag, and and my excellent situational awareness of my issue weapon's status.
If you need more than that then good luck - it's overkill masquerading as attention to detail and too much access to money.
Transporting domestically on a plane may include a fancy hard case, but not exactly a necessity.
Funny I come across this thread I was actually thinking about this today in my mind when I was looking at gear I wanted to use with my newest rifle, a Remington 700.
As a general rule of thumb, I keep the following for any weapon I use:
-hard case
-soft case
-spare magazines
-sling/holster
-white light
-appropriate cleaning supplies
-spare set of replacement parts, batteries, and associated tools
-associated "tactical gear" for my weapon system
-file on laptop with the history of weapon maintenance, round count, etc.
The term tactical gear as used in this post is broad and encompasses web gear, NODS, and other special equipment used primarily for a particular weapon. For example, with my Remington I keep a spotting scope w/tripod, log book, rear bag, shooting mat, and other gear of that nature in a 3 day pack that goes to the range with me and doubles as a nice rest for my rifle :P On the other hand, I have a small nike workout bag for my AR with ear pro, fight light belt, plates, NODS, magazine holders, and the like that is specific to my AR. Gear may get moved from one bag to another depending on if I need it for a particular situation but the general idea is to have a bag for each of my weapons that has everything I need for the range in ready to go bag and whatever I have for the weapon that will not be at the range is arranged in an organized fashion that is secure but readily accessible.
That being said I have like many others on this board, found it necessary to have a large bag for transport and went with one of LBTs deployment bags I bought for $80 when they had their sale. The only thing I don't like about it is it draws a lot of attention being huge and multicam but considering it can fit multiple rifle hardcases, any associated gear and my clothes with room to spare I'll take it. Hell it can even fit little sisters :P
http://i255.photobucket.com/albums/hh160/firefox249/photo_zps1e372646.jpg (http://s255.photobucket.com/user/firefox249/media/photo_zps1e372646.jpg.html)
A bag made for baseball/softball bats works great. Most long rifles will fit and it most certainly does not scream gun when you move it.
You can pick one up cheap at any used sporting goods store or a new one for around $30.
That being said I have like many others on this board, found it necessary to have a large bag for transport and went with one of LBTs deployment bags I bought for $80 when they had their sale. The only thing I don't like about it is it draws a lot of attention being huge and multicam but considering it can fit multiple rifle hardcases, any associated gear and my clothes with room to spare I'll take it. Hell it can even fit little sisters :P I recently rolled into a hotel with one of those LBT bags. I was spending the night between days of a Redback One class. The gal at the counter said "thanks for your service", I had to politely correct her and tell her I was neither active duty nor a veteran. Little did she know there was my clothes, foul weather gear, two AR's, 15 AR mags, two Glocks, two XDm's and 20 of their mags :D AND my full HSGI belt. Those bags are HUGE and can store a bunch.
With regard to cases, I throw whatever real padded rifle cases, soft gear cases, tool bags for muffs, eye pro, plus loose jackets, shooting mat, I have into a non descript 42" sporting zippered duffel bag while it is in my car on my way to the range or a class.
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/06/07/yvevu4aj.jpg
View it from the outside, would be thieves don't know if it is crappy clothing or interested LEO's cant take the I need to search your rifle case to check your firearm is unloaded.
Works well from the back of an SUV or pickup.
You can roll it up and store it away when at home.
Fit a friends super long Yugo SKS in a padded zippered case no problem in the duffel bag.
Even have a smaller duffel bag I put my bulldog non discreet gun case within since I think even the non discreet case screams gun or "hey there is something of value in here".
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/06/07/ehy3unem.jpg
[LIST]
Hard Pelican case with custom-cut foam...
A good cleaning rod, stored with AR in hard case
Use a case to transport your gun, not to store it.
Store your gun in a cabinet or a safe, uncased, with dehumidification or VCI, to prevent corrosion (not to mention theft).
Good point, weapons should be stored in a safe / cabinet, not a foam filled case.
Plumber237
06-12-13, 22:40
For me personally, for HD setup, range trips, and transporting:
-Quality Optic
-BUIS
-Good sling (VCAS is my preference)
-Weapon light
-SLIP 2000
-Cleaning rod
-Corrosion resistant case (in case of wet weather while at the range, it helps protect my rifle until I get home and can wipe it down and clean it.)
Jerseymike
06-13-13, 10:05
Shtf scenario. Grab your rifle, mags, as much ammo as you can carry, food and water. Torque wrench????? Come on now......
If you want a small cleaning kit run the issued Otis kit.
Torque wrench????? Come on now......
If you want a small cleaning kit run the issued Otis kit.
I actually consider that an indispensable piece of kit. I've got a few, but this one is great while in the field. It even comes with it's own roll-up pouch that holds every bit and driver you might need in a package smaller than a 12 ounce soda can.
http://www.borkatools.com/pages/atd12/mtsd.html
Shtf scenario. Grab your rifle, mags, as much ammo as you can carry, food and water. Torque wrench????? Come on now......
If you want a small cleaning kit run the issued Otis kit.
If I have time and am bugging out via vehicle, I'm packing the Pelican full of everything it can carry, where I'm going likely doesn't have what I need so I'm sure as shit taking it with me. If cars are out of the equation than that changes things in terms of load weight.
Everyone's situation is different and is in turn variant and dependent based on a plethora of circumstances beyond our control. Speaking in absolutes isn't real helpful in this discussion..
Speaking in absolutes isn't real helpful in this discussion..
Only a Sith deals in absolutes. :eek:
Only a Sith deals in absolutes. :eek:
Also people who talk about only Sith dealing in absolutes also deal in absolutes.
Also people who talk about only Sith dealing in absolutes also deal in absolutes.
Absolutely. :D
I absolutely need a LWRC rifle.
I absolutely need a LWRC rifle.
...in 300 Blackout
Sent via Tapatalk
I've never thus far had to travel by air with my equip, but to the range I pack my AR In a LaRue covert MK2 case, I managed to store my upper and lower, 4-6 mags, my ACOG or micro, and sling. In the pocket a few packets of LPK gun oil/ CLP, essential punch set, the torque or hex keys I need may need and a break down bore stick and some cleaning pads and a small smith hammer, my FSP tool is taped into one of my STR ports. I think that I can prob fit 2 ARs in the bag if done correctly I will have to try. The bag is great though and everything is interchangeable by Velcro dividers. Most of the bag is Velcro, the flap has a huge Velcro patch on the left and on the right is the pocket and and big square of molle webbing. I am very impressed by the strength of the Velcro and overall construction of the bag. I would definitely reccomend this bag for anyone looking for a great short distance travel bag that has some discreet value.
Of course I have to pack accordingly, I also have a Midway range bag that I use primarily for handguns that thing is a beast but the midway stitching is not so covert, along with my ammo bag. On a light range day I can fit everything I need into the covert bag. I am going to be doing some traveling to Tennessee in November for the HSAC1 course and need to start thinking about the best way to pack my gear for a rode trip or air travel as my methods are only short distance centered.
Depending on what the plan/ mission is, I may roll with this only.. About the only good reason to have this is the portablity.. I'd just not have the AK mag option. and chang out the optic for my Aimpoint other than the POS thats on it.
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