2023 Infantry load out

[Dave0317]

So, it’s 2023 and most Army units still require you to stick to an SOP built off the old school FLC, but issue something more like a plate carrier and chest rig option. On top of that, there is not an issued MBITR or 152 pouch. Pistols are now issued to more of the infantry than ever, but no pistol Mag pouches.

How do you set up your stuff? I find I have to supplement with at least a couple personal items to hold stuff I am required to have. I’ll post a couple pics of load out options. Discuss pros, cons, etc.

Mission is Mech Infantry tasked with prepping for the entire spectrum of operations and must train the entire METL.

 

[Dave0317]

Option 1, attach pouches to plate carrier. With all the mandatory BN SOP stuff, this leaves no room for pistol mag pouches, grenade pouches, admin items, etc.
Canteen pouch on right side could hold a canteen when camelback is not used for whatever reason, or could be used to stash NVGs during the day.

 

[Dave0317]

Option 2, use the TAPs system to maximize room.

This allows the addition of pistol mag pouches and a GP pouch to hold things like headlamp, extra batteries, whatever.

Could swap the GP pouch for two grenade pouches.

The chest rig allows for much more room for other stuff because you have all your mags in a single row close to your body. All the other pouches can be layered across the front.

Thermacell in the MBITR pouch just to fill the pouch a bit.

Anyway, what pros and cons do y’all see?

I may set up a third method and post that later, and add my pro/con thoughts as well.

Will also update further down the road as I get some field time with these systems.

 

[HighTower]

Hi Dave!

NSN'd OCP Pistol mag pouches do exist, I currently have a double shingle on a 45degree panel on my AWS SMU belt, (so as to prevent the top of my thigh from slamming into my magazines while running (im short, so sadly that is a thing at my 11 and 1 position on my belt)

That is to say that Belts should be considered if individual unit SOP allows for them. My current unit is, but iv had prior units not allow them. Individual mileage may vary.

As long as we are playing in the rules established, the TAP is the superior option due to expanded PALS real estate, BUT it quickly can suffer from creeping of pouches to the point where Balance becomes F'd due to being front heavy... (not even a loaded camelbak will balance it out) and anything attatched to the front generates more push off distance from the ground in the prone position.

TLDR, belt as a third option to pull from the TAP or the Vest itself.

TAPs are functional, but can suffer from overloading.

S/F

P.s. did you switch branches by any chance? 03anything talking about OCP 11B/11M gear/mission makes me think a fellow 2 brancher is present, I try to find other Marines in my Guard unit, kinda like Highlander lol.