Buying equipment for my brother in Iraq

[wacki]

My brother is in Iraq right now. I'm sending him some care packages. My communication with him is limited but I asked if he needed any equipment. He asked for a new holster for his M9 9mm Beretta Pistol as he hates the one he was issued and there aren't places to buy spare equipment where he is at. He called his current holster a "miami vice" style. He also said he could always use more ammo pouches for the M4 he recently picked up.

Any suggestions on make/models? I know a lot about shotguns but I don't have a whole lot of experience with other forms of weaponry and their accessories. So I need all the advice I can get.

Also, are there any other questions I should ask him?

 

[rero360]

I highly suggestgoing with tactical taylor, their equipment is a little on the pricy side, but it is well worth it, I have all tactical taylor gear because i didn't like the issued gear and I love it all,their pouches are awsome, the modular holster is great, the blackhawk serpa holster is another favorite with us guys. for some background, I'm in a MP unit going through mob. at fort dix, been in the field for over a month now and will be out in about a week and will be in Iraq by this time next month, was infantry for 5 years and now a MP.

also if your brother has rails on his weapon, he might like the grip pod, I just got mine for my SAW, and I love it, 150 bucks (I think 70 would be a fairer price) the blackhawk three point sling is a worthy item, or the tactical taylor single point sling, if he has the M4 with or without the 203, or the M16.

other than that, maybe an ACOG if he hasn't been issued any optics.

maybe I'll run into your brother over there

 

[ugaarguy]

Ask him what style of holster he wants. By "Miami Vice" type I'm guessing it's a shoulder holster. Would he prefer a belt holster, or maybe a drop leg that put the holster down on his thigh? Once you know what he wants style wise we can throw a few recommendations at you.

-Ask how he is on socks, underwear, t-shirts - those are little things that make a huge difference. Thorlo Combat Boot, or Smart Wool Hiking socks are awesome
-Does he need a good surefire or streamlight style flashlight and/or a supply of batteries for one?
-Does he need a pocket knife, sheath knife, or leatherman type tool? Knife sharpener?
-Baby wipes, body wash like men's dial and old spice are great, blades for his shaving razor, shampoo, see if there are any toiletry items he wants
-Ask about snacks like beef jerky and granola bars
-A good cigar (for me anyway) is great touch of home when I have time to smoke one, but I realize not everyone does that
-Ask if there are any books he'd like for when he has down time

Ask us if you need more info, there are quite a few here who are or have recently been in theater. Thank you for taking care of your brother too.

 

[MountainBear]

Understand that my opinions are derived from hunting, not combat, but I have had excellent luck with the Blackhawk Industries products. I have used them in hunting and CCW, they have not failed me yet. Thank him for protecting our freedoms...
God Bless America and those who protect her.

 

[Tower.58]

Holsters...

You might try posting the question about the holster at http://www.combatcarry.com/ in the "Concealed Carry Holsters & Carry Options" section. THR is great, but you can probalby get better holster specific advice at the Combat Carry forum. There are several custom holster makers who frequent that board who will probably help you out.

Good luck, and god bless your brother.

 

[DougW]

Blackhawk is approved and used by our guys. They have great stuff. I sent some extra's to my son who is in Iraq right now.