@@WilliamWonka second brand was Blackhawk’s serpa holsters. Someone there thought it would be a good idea to put the release button/tab right over where the trigger is.
You guys have great stuff! In 1987-1991 when I was in the Marines I had Vietnam era Allis Web belt, suspenders with shoulder pads. Rook sack in back. My M-12 NYLON flap holster for my Colt 1911A1. My M-12 mag pouch. My 2 M-67 M -14 mag pouches. 2 M-67 plastic canteens. My K-Bar, SOG SOCOM SEAL KNIFE. BOONIE HAT. WE HAD M 70 FLACK JACKETS! I WORE MY GILLY SUITE. GREAT VIDEO TAKES ME BACK 33 YEARS! SEMPER FI ARMY!
I swear this video and the instructor in the video are great. Yes, I am sure many of us already know some of this information but you never know what information, big or small, you will come across to. Seriously, the information given is quality information that educates well-round different people. I like the point made about how your war belt and body armor need to complement each other. I am sure that goes without saying from law enforcement officers to military specs. We all have worked with that 10 percent, you ask yourself, "how in the hell did they make it here."
Love your videos, and thanks for your service. I have a severe scoliosis and for that reason getting as much weight off my back as possible is very important to me. Furthermore, standing at only 5'4" tall with a short torso even for someone of my height, chest rigs, plate carriers or tactical vests hang real low on me; so low in fact that I can't wear a tactical belt with any of those. Those are two reasons I avoid wearing anything over my shoulders whenever possible. Currently, I have two cummerbunds set up with as much as 6 M-4 mags, a pistol holster, 2 spare pistol mag pouches, a white light, an external tourniquet holder with shears, a knife and a full rip away IFAK with an extra tourniquet inside. I also have a separate water bladder pouch I can throw over my shoulders if needed. The bladder pouch also has room for 4 extra M-4 mags for a total of 10 as well as room for coms. Once I throw a rifle over my shoulder, that's about all the weight my back can handle for any length of time. All this to say that one can carry a surprising amount of gear on a single cummerbund or belt.
That's a really nice setup. Just finished packing out my personally built IFAK and waiting on my war belt. Problem with being a former grunt and upgrading your personal kit, you want to buy so much stuff you'll never use once your out unless your doing LEO/Contracting/PSD etc.
I've worn serpa holsters for about 7 years, currently I wear a duty belt with a safariland 7ts. Friends don't let friends carry stuff they don't train with. I've never had issues with serpa, or safariland. The important thing is always training yourself to be better. To me it never matters what gun, or gear or holster, as long as you're proficient with those items.
Ghost well you have training And you have used it for a long time the issues with it are with new users there are way better holsters than serpa for new users
Im more scared of a dude with a 450 dollar PSA, an aimpoint, and 2k worth of ammo through it than a dude with a KAC and 20 bucks worth of ammo through it
have I stressed how much I LOVE this channel . every video I watch I am amazed at the similarities between your rigs and mine . the location of items is uncanny .right down to the rubber bands on the cats ... probably just because that's what works . I have started adding a cat to my rifle stock on the off side for buddy aid . that way I don't have to put down my weapon system for to long while administering aid . I would say I agree on about 95% of the thing you review in your vids . this is an extremely high number as I usually trust no one but experience .. in short you rock . keep up the great work . and help to educate the sheeple of our glorious nation . THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE .
If you're worried about running open top pistol magazine pouches, get a Tactical Tailor Magna Magazine Pouch. It's compatible with either single stack or double stack magazines, can be run open top or closed top, and (my favorite part) it has a magnet inside to help hold onto the magazines. You could probably hang upside down with it open and will be ok.
One tip that I was given for war belts is for your rifle mags, keep the area on your vest above that mags location clear, reason being if you need to do an emergency reload and your in an awkward position, you have nothing obstructing you from easily grabbing that mag. BUT then again, personal preference.
I've watched many videos on war belt set ups and your video is the only one that talls about the belt alongside the rig. The way my belt is set up is almost how yours is set up to complement my rig. I learned alot of good stuff when it comes to setting up a rig when I was in the marines I was in 3rd recon bn and 2nd MARSOC so I learned alot of great information like the information you show here
Any idea which belt is inside the sleeve after 0:50? I was a rigger and I dealt with jump/pilot gear and mission specific gear for an eod attachment we had with us. I learned alot of non traditional stuff and im also trying to build out a nice civilian Backcountry setup for when I leave commifornia next month
When he said he wants to keep weight off the plate carrier the first thing I thought of was all the shit we have to put on our IOTV, or whatever the current system is.
lol they deleted my reply from my other account. Guess my floppy battlebelt comment was too much for these high-speed operators. guys, your advice is good, don't get butthurt because your friends need to build a better belt. belts that don't hold their shape and curl like the one in your video rub and chafe. they don't hold your equipment right in the right places and they can send you to sick call for hip sores. the belt needs to hold it's shape and some stiff padding would resolve the issue in this belt.
Now theres you a truth bomb..."If you need one Tourny, your probably going to need a couple more"! I never have less than two and often times I have three on me when things might get "hot and smokey". Another stupendous video!!!
When I was at the 160th at Campbell my wife worked at ATS. I have the same war belt you just reviewed with all the attachments from ATS and love it. Tell Mike and Jimmy Sonny and Amie said hi.
I am a mil sim paintball player from canada. I love your vids and use almost all your tips and tricks with my gear. Your the man and thank you from my family and i for your service and sacrifice
Got a cheap ($15-$20) nylon/velcro leg holster that works just fine. Two options for securing sidearm inside the holster. 1. Button closure. Just fine and dandy when you're in an area that is expected to be reletively safe, however it does provide a slight resistance when drawing the sidearm as you have to un-clasp the buttons, then draw. 2. Option 2 is velcro closure. Instead of buttons, a velcro strap secures your sidearm in the holster so even if you're running, jumping, doing a handstand, your sidearm is secure. And provides no resistance when drawing your sidearm, ya just yank it out, velcro releases, no problem. Works great. And with some good ol' ingenuity and maybe a little paracord, I'm sure you can easily transition the holster from leg to belt/molle very simply, if you want to.
Im no tier 1 operator or anything, but the one thing that was always pushed into my head from my time in was lighting. Having a weapon light is great, but carry a backup. Holsters for them are relatively inexpensive and dont take up alot of room on your belt. 1 is none, 2 is one. Just something to consider as well.
i have mine on my belt. ddint have a holder for me to put it on my vest. i just have a front and back plate cause my side wraps are too loose. kinda a skinny guy
I agree man. I use a Serpa and I've never had my finger end up on the trigger! It's all about trigger discipline and practice! Those morons who shot themselves probably didn't have proper trigger discipline or training with their holster! It's all about repetition! :)
Slyder81 Ditto I have 4 Serpa holsters for my 2 handguns that mount to both my Black and Tan tact vests! They are positioned on the upper left part of each vest for a horizontal right handed draw! If the weapon does discharge before it clears the holster(I’m a dumbass if it does) then the chance of the round hitting me are slim to none!
I was just going to make a comment on this haha. You hit all my points, and I think it is a great holster. Besides it being popular I also think the SERPA gets so much sh1t because there is a video of some idiot shooting himself in the leg trying to be fast. I believe that is the only video showing the holster where he shot himself where no other video does.. The hand placement on the draw is EXACTLY the same as a kydex anyways, well it should be ... i.e. booger finger straight on the frame/off the trigger as you pull it out and you finger should slide along the holster as you clear the weapon from the holster... If anything the SERPA is SAFER because you have to depress the release, again which is lined up with the frame, also again.. what you should be doing on any draw until the muzzle is in a safe direction.
I really like my Serpa holster. I have others as well but the fact the gun is locked in until that button is depressed is piece of mind knowing someone else couldn't just take my gun, though that would be very slim chance or embarrassing as hell, lol. A lot of people aren't stupid, their just untrained or uneducated. Honestly when I first got mine, to practice quick draws and such, I always practiced on an empty chamber but had a loaded mag. I did this until it was all muscle memory, especially on my trigger finger or booger finger (lmao) is placed. Once there then I practiced with one in the tube. My finger doesn't go on that trigger until that gun is extended in front of at the target. What sucks about the Serpa holster is that it cannot fit my M&P with a weapon light. However using my drop leg Condor holster, it's adjustable and it will allow me to holster my pistol with a weapon light. There are definitely some higher quality holsters that work better, but I'm happy with what I have and I've become efficient with my gear. I've trained for two years now with my gear and I can still get better, just shows training with your equipment is important.
Good video. But I don't care if the firearm is unloaded... I haven't been shot through my screen yet. 😜 your thoughts on keeping body armor and kit carrier separate? I.e. Plate armor, then wearing the kit on something carried by h-harness?
Yeah, that stuff always cracks me up as well. The only thing I can think of as to why a professional does that on a video is to impart good habits onto those who don't handle firearms professionally.
I did have my plate carrier and kit carrier separate when I was training up for Afghanistan in 2009 with my unit B. Co. 1-187th In., and it worked good for a while. However, once I was in Afghanistan and my position in the squad had changed; from Grenadier to M240 gunner, putting on my kit over top of my body armor started to become a pain. In addition to that, later in 2010, when we were down in Kandahar as opposed to Paktika, putting on my kit over my armor became more of a pain as I was carrying 200rds on my M249, 2 - 200rd drums on my kit, and 2 - 100rd "nutsacks" on my kit, and a 100oz water bladder. Given that, to me, it was a gigantic pain in my ass. Other shooters though my have better experiences with their gear. My squad leader at the time arranged his gear on his armor and got it to where it was very well balanced; as I had put it on to go on a quick escort mission for my Plt. Sgt.
Along the lines of taking as much weight off your shoulders as possible, I've got 3 rifle mags and 3 pistol mags as well as a tourniquet, IFAK, 6354 ALS on a midride QLS on my battle belt. That way I carry only the essentials on the plate carrier such as 4-5 rifle mags, another trauma kit, and a bag in the near future. Just because I'm not jumping out of helicopters or doing any of that cool stuff.
My 2 cents on tourniquets, I run with 4 (one for each limb) you never know what can happen, better to have too many than not enough as long as they don't obstruct access to other vital items or gear. And remember tourniquets don't work to stop neck wounds! Lol
Thanks Mike. Yea, I was trained the same theory of 4 with one for each limb. Even if you don't get hit, then you have available for your soldier next to you.
Do you recommend some form of suspension for the war belt? I found mine would sometimes drift up or down with a lot of maneuvering. If I cinch it down too tight, it hampers motion. The suspenders I added are minimalist, so they tend not to get in the way. Like your thoughts on this. Thanks.
It varies by person, body type etc. I need suspenders with my battle belt. I bought British battle belt surplus suspenders with 9€ and use them with my HSGI rig. Wandering belt without those, starts to push my trousers down during the day which is very annoying.
Man, I know your question is three years old now but have you ever tried just regular belt keepers. They basically connect your personal belt to your duty belt. I have done both military and civilian law enforcement and I have had great success with them. I typically use a minimum of six keepers, eight if my gear placement allows it. I also prefer the velcro over the button type. I think they allow for a little more flex when bent over.
hey i have a question: what folding knifes do you prefer or what knives in generell do you like most for tactical/military Operations? hope you will make a Video about this :)
Pascal H if you're an American civilian then you won't want something huge, unless you're in Alaska. Look at the Fox Dart for a folder and the le picour, or something like that, for a fixed karambit. Both are small and legal in most places in the US.
If it has an edge and won't break in your hands, it is good. Lots of people have misconceptions that knives are used for silent kills. That basically never happend. Whenever you need silence, a silenced handgun is used, which while loud, is no louder than the guy screaming and struggling against you if you were to approach him. The knife is only used for utility like cutting straps and rope, and for defense when an adversary is totally on you and you cannot get enough space to safely use your firearms. Get knife that you can carry with you every day.
I just set mine up. ATS belt fits like it should and is comfortable as Hell...considering I am carrying enough hellfire to defend my position. Great video, Make more.
Ordered the war belt. And inner belt. With the corona stuff going on ill see it when i see it. I plan on using the ITW fast mag pouch for pistol and rifle mag. A dump pouch. My leatherman my safariland for glock 19 with light. Paid 10 bucks for it. And a IFAK. Not using too many frags and bangs these days.
TigerLand Paintball I have a brocos belt. I went to my local hardware store and got some velcro tape. I'll wear a velcro loop underbelt for my pants and have the hook velcro tape strips lined inside the brocos. works a treat. Had it for months with no issues.
Check out our collaboration with Trex arms trex-arms.com/store/t-rex-arms-orion/ It has belt retainers if you want to use them. The Gen 2 is coming out soon, but you can get an idea of the belt and what we did to completely negate that constant riding up while crouching or going prone.
Law enforcement does three things with their belts to keep in place. 1. belt keepers. 2 using a belt with Velcro exterior and a duty belt with Velcro interior or 3. putting the belt through your belt loops. Now, many tactical duty belts in law enforcement come with Velcro on the interior so you can Velcro it to a inner belt. However, adding Velcro to belts is just as good. The other thing is to have just the right belt. With just the right belt, it'll fall around your hips due to the weight but also won't sag if fit right.
The brand of your ALS holster is an ALS Safariland holster also the point of a vest (in police work atleast) is to take weigh off your duty belt so you dont get as bad of back pain
Actually it is a Safariland ALS holster. We have several other videos that cover our body armor vest setups. You can find them in our video archive. Thanks for watching, TR
This Marine gotta replace his 6yr old serpa holster next month😟. You just talked me into switching to ALS holsters. This 0311 Rifleman thanks you for your advise 👍😘
I suggested to a company one time that made both war belts and plate carriers the idea of connecting the war belt to the plate carrier using a rigid attachment system which would transfer a lot of the weight of the plate carrier from the shoulders to the waist just like a good backpack with waist strap does.
Excellent question. I actually used to carry my pistol in a leg holster, just like back in the school house. However, fast forward to our 5th year of the Global War on Terror, and we changed many of our tactics. Instead of always landing right on the "X," we started doing more and more "5k Offsets." This allowed us to land the helo outside of Earshot, and then walk silently up into the target neighborhood with being detected. Wearing a Leg Holster wore my leg raw. If you don't believe me, go out and try doing a 12 mile road march with a leg holster on... You'll convert to a belt holster also. Hope this answers your question. Thanks for watching. Strength & Honor, TR.
Serpa holsters... funny stuff right there! Our department banned them years ago. Of course this crazy guy bought before the ban. It is now a great dust collector. Trying to teach the young ones correctly..Thank you sir!
Whats wrong with hearing from experienced people about how they use their kit and their logic in doing so. Most kit is standardised on the most part but people tinker with it to make it work best for them.
Thank you Sir! Awesome video, you have shown me the light! Now I have a good idea and direction as for my battle/war belt. Thank you for your service!... nothing but love from a California Patriot‼💯🦅✝🇺🇸
You cant, its a controlled item by the ATF. You can however get something like a TRMR grenade that uses shotgun or pistol caliber blanks. Its reusable, is loud, and if using the "magflash" shotgun shells makes a very bright flash
Far as I know it's commercially for sale to LEOs only (I've seen some at select few gun shows) but if you do manage to get your hands on one you'll have to fill out a Form 4 and pay Destructive Device tax. Also, depending on your state laws they may have something forbidding the use of flashbangs so it's always important to check. Also, let's say hypothetically you are able to get some flashbangs. Throwing one in your house will blow out all your windows and wreck any tv screens, computer monitors, etc as well as set off your smoke alarm. You also have the added benefit of pissing off all your neighbors. What this means is you better have a damn good reason for throwing one because police WILL investigate. If you ask me, it's really really unnecessary to own them for anything other than cool guy points (assuming you're not military or LEO). Even if you are able to successfully use one in a defensive scenario, the backlash in court probably isn't worth it. Remember, there are always two fights: the one for your life and the one for your freedom.
***** It's the same concept as wanting to procure select fire machine guns or rifles. Flashbangs are clearly intended to be used for offense. So yeah, I wouldn't ever plan on using one in a rule of law scenario, but I definitely don't want to have to scavenge for that kind of stuff after the shit hits the fan.
Easily made at home. As are smoke poppers. I recommend you figure out a few ways of how to make them, different materials, etc, write that down and keep it in your files. Then assemble a small stock of those materials and keep them in storage with anything else you care to have around. From there should you ever actually need them, you can make them, but you don't have ostensibly offensive/illegal items laying around that could at best degrade, or at worst be found or cause an accident. Skills over stuff.
And Schu have you ever had the retention mechanism fail? one of .my soldiers did, luckily in the barracks not on patrol, we literaly had to cut the holster apart to get the gun out.
There have been a few incidents where people have had their finger slip into the trigger guard and had an ND due to the position and action required to operate the retention mechanism.
m4jedi serpa holsters have saved officers lives! I'm sure if you search hard enough you can find a malfunction in anything. If that's the case don't carry a gun because sometimes they malfunction 😉. I personally have never seen a Serpa malfunction, and no other officer I work with has had one. I'm talking like 100 Serpa holsters over the course of 8-10 years. I'm going with the odds. For gun retention a Serpa is the hardest for a bad guy to take out of your holster, and extremely easy for the operator to unholster. I am speaking from a LEO standpoint. I have had 4 holsters in my career and the Serpa hands down is the best for LEOs.
There is no ALS holster for the gun I will be carrying I've tried the Safariland holsters and the retention screw came lose so I went with a Black Hawk Serpa.and it works. I have been practicing and seems to be working as expected. The pistol I have started using is a Para p 13 45 Though I also have a ruger American 45 with light.
where you been all my life....lol...well..at least the last 5 yrs. I need this "War belt" or some call "Battle belt". for awhile now I been fighting my side holster dragging my pants down and I'm not fond of this holster anyway and you answer my prayers finding something that is solid. I look forward into buying some of the items you mention. I didn't think about having a leatherman tool on your belt. Good thinking. LOVE LOVE the velcro medical kit. That's good tactical thinking. Thank for sharing to this Oregon dude.
Thanks for the video, and introducing me to ATS, good people over there. I picked up the war belt, and the bleeder pouch, which I've been looking for the right one for awhile. Well, I found it with them among other things. As always, Karl I got much out of all your videos. Looking to get an ALS holster next. hoping they have a 1911 model. Thank you, sir.
I like the ATS gear as well. Just purchased their First Responder bag from the website. No other CLS bag comes close to quality & features. Just wish they’d be open Saturday. The customer points system is quite nice though, keeps u coming back.😁👍👍
Where do you keep your oil bottle and pull through for your weapon? Most army units like the oil bottle close by to help keep weapons working better during firefights. I’m Brit doctrine we have to keep it on us at all times.
How did you affix your blades to your battle belt and chest rig? I see knives at Tops, Haley Strategic, and other places, but none seem to have sheaths that easily attach to gear; instead, they're just run-of-the-mill sheaths. Each of yours, however, seem like they are inserted into sheaths / holsters specifically designed for your knife to attach to the belt or chest rig.
Im just a regular Green Beret that solves problems. Sometimes legally, sometimes in the grey area, but always find a way to accomplish the mission at hand, even when it is as simple as attaching non-Molle to Molle gear. Take off the fancy clips. Then… Try Zip Ties. Thanks for watching , TR
LOVE and GREATFUL for my Serpa... especially when working large crowd events and kids trying for the stuff on the belt.. of visiting a bud and his ex shows up with the kids.. who forget their teachings from dad and reach for it from behind cause it looks cool... like all tools Serpas' have their places to be used
The Serpa is much better than a holster with no retention. That said, the next time you are in the market for a new holster, try a Safariland ALS with just the button (no hood). You'll never go back. Thanks for watching. TR.
Top I loved this video and I get it. Heres my totally off topic question. You're retired so I know you cant still be running military issued comms. So what type of comms are you running now and where did you find PTT button kit to connect it
Scotty, actually, when teaching the military, they always bring extra radios for us to train with. There are good civilian radio systems out there. I will add it to the video idea list
This is why a have a tactical caddy. He carries all my stuff and I just wear flipflops and shorts.
Billy Burd if i could only get some free flip flops so I could do a shameless plug for them... ;)
I also have a tactical daddy
Tacticaddy
My caddie is a Vegas Stripper and she carries a kilo of blow. She be Dangerous as Hell but a damn fine time.
I hope those flip flops double as body armor! And, Does your Hawaiian shirt look like a salad too?
Former infantryman, now building civilian load out for myself. Thank you for posting this content, it's very refreshing for me.
Lmao shit I’m doing one, I’m in artillery right now
@MagVair fire for effect
For anyone asking. The holster is an ALS series. Made by SAFARILAND
Came to the comments to say that. Couldn’t figure out what the second brand he was pooping on was tho.
@@WilliamWonka blackhawk serpa. Worst holsters in the industry. Have actually gotten multiple people killed.
@@WilliamWonka second brand was Blackhawk’s serpa holsters. Someone there thought it would be a good idea to put the release button/tab right over where the trigger is.
Do we know the model
@@kylecherry3156late reply but for anyone else wondering, it’s a 6354DO.
You guys have great stuff! In 1987-1991 when I was in the Marines I had Vietnam era Allis Web belt, suspenders with shoulder pads. Rook sack in back. My M-12 NYLON flap holster for my Colt 1911A1. My M-12 mag pouch. My 2 M-67 M -14 mag pouches. 2 M-67 plastic canteens. My K-Bar, SOG SOCOM SEAL KNIFE. BOONIE HAT. WE HAD M 70 FLACK JACKETS! I WORE MY GILLY SUITE. GREAT VIDEO TAKES ME BACK 33 YEARS! SEMPER FI ARMY!
Thanks for watching, and thank you for your service. TR
I swear this video and the instructor in the video are great. Yes, I am sure many of us already know some of this information but you never know what information, big or small, you will come across to. Seriously, the information given is quality information that educates well-round different people. I like the point made about how your war belt and body armor need to complement each other. I am sure that goes without saying from law enforcement officers to military specs. We all have worked with that 10 percent, you ask yourself, "how in the hell did they make it here."
Thanks for watching, TR
Love your videos, and thanks for your service.
I have a severe scoliosis and for that reason getting as much weight off my back as possible is very important to me. Furthermore, standing at only 5'4" tall with a short torso even for someone of my height, chest rigs, plate carriers or tactical vests hang real low on me; so low in fact that I can't wear a tactical belt with any of those. Those are two reasons I avoid wearing anything over my shoulders whenever possible. Currently, I have two cummerbunds set up with as much as 6 M-4 mags, a pistol holster, 2 spare pistol mag pouches, a white light, an external tourniquet holder with shears, a knife and a full rip away IFAK with an extra tourniquet inside. I also have a separate water bladder pouch I can throw over my shoulders if needed. The bladder pouch also has room for 4 extra M-4 mags for a total of 10 as well as room for coms. Once I throw a rifle over my shoulder, that's about all the weight my back can handle for any length of time. All this to say that one can carry a surprising amount of gear on a single cummerbund or belt.
That's a really nice setup. Just finished packing out my personally built IFAK and waiting on my war belt. Problem with being a former grunt and upgrading your personal kit, you want to buy so much stuff you'll never use once your out unless your doing LEO/Contracting/PSD etc.
I've worn serpa holsters for about 7 years, currently I wear a duty belt with a safariland 7ts. Friends don't let friends carry stuff they don't train with. I've never had issues with serpa, or safariland. The important thing is always training yourself to be better. To me it never matters what gun, or gear or holster, as long as you're proficient with those items.
Ghost well you have training And you have used it for a long time the issues with it are with new users there are way better holsters than serpa for new users
Im more scared of a dude with a 450 dollar PSA, an aimpoint, and 2k worth of ammo through it than a dude with a KAC and 20 bucks worth of ammo through it
have I stressed how much I LOVE this channel . every video I watch I am amazed at the similarities between your rigs and mine . the location of items is uncanny .right down to the rubber bands on the cats ... probably just because that's what works . I have started adding a cat to my rifle stock on the off side for buddy aid . that way I don't have to put down my weapon system for to long while administering aid . I would say I agree on about 95% of the thing you review in your vids . this is an extremely high number as I usually trust no one but experience .. in short you rock . keep up the great work . and help to educate the sheeple of our glorious nation . THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE .
If you're worried about running open top pistol magazine pouches, get a Tactical Tailor Magna Magazine Pouch. It's compatible with either single stack or double stack magazines, can be run open top or closed top, and (my favorite part) it has a magnet inside to help hold onto the magazines. You could probably hang upside down with it open and will be ok.
"We'll start with the belt itself, what this is is a belt"
- Karl 2017
Lol still laughing
it's hilarious but it's even more hilarious that some people out there need to be talked to like that to understand
One tip that I was given for war belts is for your rifle mags, keep the area on your vest above that mags location clear, reason being if you need to do an emergency reload and your in an awkward position, you have nothing obstructing you from easily grabbing that mag. BUT then again, personal preference.
I feel like this guy smokes some mean ribs, wears nike monarchs, and tell's you to "get some rest sport, we got a big day tomorrow".
Holt Preston 😂
Dude😳😂
😂
Karl is the Dad we all wish we had.
He's also the one to remind ypu to love the one you got.
@@mrdrprof99 mine died in October. I miss him
I've watched many videos on war belt set ups and your video is the only one that talls about the belt alongside the rig. The way my belt is set up is almost how yours is set up to complement my rig. I learned alot of good stuff when it comes to setting up a rig when I was in the marines I was in 3rd recon bn and 2nd MARSOC so I learned alot of great information like the information you show here
Any idea which belt is inside the sleeve after 0:50? I was a rigger and I dealt with jump/pilot gear and mission specific gear for an eod attachment we had with us. I learned alot of non traditional stuff and im also trying to build out a nice civilian Backcountry setup for when I leave commifornia next month
Damn you, SF dudes with your light, modular rigs. I hate you.
Sincerely, an infantry dude.
When he said he wants to keep weight off the plate carrier the first thing I thought of was all the shit we have to put on our IOTV, or whatever the current system is.
my unit lets you wear the gear u want.
G unit?
lol, i dont think i ever wore anything but a belt and plate carrier
lol they deleted my reply from my other account. Guess my floppy battlebelt comment was too much for these high-speed operators.
guys, your advice is good, don't get butthurt because your friends need to build a better belt. belts that don't hold their shape and curl like the one in your video rub and chafe. they don't hold your equipment right in the right places and they can send you to sick call for hip sores. the belt needs to hold it's shape and some stiff padding would resolve the issue in this belt.
Now theres you a truth bomb..."If you need one Tourny, your probably going to need a couple more"! I never have less than two and often times I have three on me when things might get "hot and smokey". Another stupendous video!!!
That’s actually a safariland 6094DO Holster, ALS is the retention system used
Another great video and fantastic information thank you for your service and stay safe my brother in arms. 82nd AA 🇺🇸
Thank you for serving our country sir
When I was at the 160th at Campbell my wife worked at ATS. I have the same war belt you just reviewed with all the attachments from ATS and love it. Tell Mike and Jimmy Sonny and Amie said hi.
I sure will. They are good people. Thanks for Watching.TR.
Is this the slimeline?
“I appreciate you asking...” 😂😉
I am a mil sim paintball player from canada. I love your vids and use almost all your tips and tricks with my gear. Your the man and thank you from my family and i for your service and sacrifice
Thanks for watching. Strength & Honor, TR.
I run the same belt. not only does ATS make some outstanding gear, but you really should have mentioned the excellent price point too.
Daniel Crowley Sr ats all the way!
Got a cheap ($15-$20) nylon/velcro leg holster that works just fine. Two options for securing sidearm inside the holster.
1. Button closure.
Just fine and dandy when you're in an area that is expected to be reletively safe, however it does provide a slight resistance when drawing the sidearm as you have to un-clasp the buttons, then draw.
2. Option 2 is velcro closure. Instead of buttons, a velcro strap secures your sidearm in the holster so even if you're running, jumping, doing a handstand, your sidearm is secure. And provides no resistance when drawing your sidearm, ya just yank it out, velcro releases, no problem. Works great. And with some good ol' ingenuity and maybe a little paracord, I'm sure you can easily transition the holster from leg to belt/molle very simply, if you want to.
Same here with my FNX 45 with light it works perfect
4:34 The only thing worse than a dull knife is an empty gun.
Im no tier 1 operator or anything, but the one thing that was always pushed into my head from my time in was lighting. Having a weapon light is great, but carry a backup. Holsters for them are relatively inexpensive and dont take up alot of room on your belt. 1 is none, 2 is one. Just something to consider as well.
I agree 100%. I have a hand-held light in a holder on the front of my kit.
i have mine on my belt. ddint have a holder for me to put it on my vest. i just have a front and back plate cause my side wraps are too loose. kinda a skinny guy
Friends don't let friends use serpa holsters. Hell yeah! LOL
I agree man. I use a Serpa and I've never had my finger end up on the trigger! It's all about trigger discipline and practice! Those morons who shot themselves probably didn't have proper trigger discipline or training with their holster! It's all about repetition! :)
Slyder81 Ditto I have 4 Serpa holsters for my 2 handguns that mount to both my Black and Tan tact vests! They are positioned on the upper left part of each vest for a horizontal right handed draw! If the weapon does discharge before it clears the holster(I’m a dumbass if it does) then the chance of the round hitting me are slim to none!
I was just going to make a comment on this haha. You hit all my points, and I think it is a great holster. Besides it being popular I also think the SERPA gets so much sh1t because there is a video of some idiot shooting himself in the leg trying to be fast. I believe that is the only video showing the holster where he shot himself where no other video does..
The hand placement on the draw is EXACTLY the same as a kydex anyways, well it should be ... i.e. booger finger straight on the frame/off the trigger as you pull it out and you finger should slide along the holster as you clear the weapon from the holster... If anything the SERPA is SAFER because you have to depress the release, again which is lined up with the frame, also again.. what you should be doing on any draw until the muzzle is in a safe direction.
Glad I'm not the only one defending Serpa holsters.
Train, train, and train to avoid injury.
I really like my Serpa holster. I have others as well but the fact the gun is locked in until that button is depressed is piece of mind knowing someone else couldn't just take my gun, though that would be very slim chance or embarrassing as hell, lol.
A lot of people aren't stupid, their just untrained or uneducated. Honestly when I first got mine, to practice quick draws and such, I always practiced on an empty chamber but had a loaded mag. I did this until it was all muscle memory, especially on my trigger finger or booger finger (lmao) is placed. Once there then I practiced with one in the tube. My finger doesn't go on that trigger until that gun is extended in front of at the target.
What sucks about the Serpa holster is that it cannot fit my M&P with a weapon light. However using my drop leg Condor holster, it's adjustable and it will allow me to holster my pistol with a weapon light. There are definitely some higher quality holsters that work better, but I'm happy with what I have and I've become efficient with my gear. I've trained for two years now with my gear and I can still get better, just shows training with your equipment is important.
Thanks for the information, like many watching. Knowing how to keep a war belt will be handy for the hard-core office work ahead of me.
Good video. But I don't care if the firearm is unloaded... I haven't been shot through my screen yet. 😜 your thoughts on keeping body armor and kit carrier separate? I.e. Plate armor, then wearing the kit on something carried by h-harness?
Slow down there internet cowboy, stop using logic and being so reasonable. This is the internet you know.. :)
Adam M ahahaha 😜
Yeah, that stuff always cracks me up as well. The only thing I can think of as to why a professional does that on a video is to impart good habits onto those who don't handle firearms professionally.
There's a first time for everything 😀😀😀😀😀
I did have my plate carrier and kit carrier separate when I was training up for Afghanistan in 2009 with my unit B. Co. 1-187th In., and it worked good for a while. However, once I was in Afghanistan and my position in the squad had changed; from Grenadier to M240 gunner, putting on my kit over top of my body armor started to become a pain. In addition to that, later in 2010, when we were down in Kandahar as opposed to Paktika, putting on my kit over my armor became more of a pain as I was carrying 200rds on my M249, 2 - 200rd drums on my kit, and 2 - 100rd "nutsacks" on my kit, and a 100oz water bladder. Given that, to me, it was a gigantic pain in my ass. Other shooters though my have better experiences with their gear. My squad leader at the time arranged his gear on his armor and got it to where it was very well balanced; as I had put it on to go on a quick escort mission for my Plt. Sgt.
Along the lines of taking as much weight off your shoulders as possible, I've got 3 rifle mags and 3 pistol mags as well as a tourniquet, IFAK, 6354 ALS on a midride QLS on my battle belt. That way I carry only the essentials on the plate carrier such as 4-5 rifle mags, another trauma kit, and a bag in the near future. Just because I'm not jumping out of helicopters or doing any of that cool stuff.
My 2 cents on tourniquets, I run with 4 (one for each limb) you never know what can happen, better to have too many than not enough as long as they don't obstruct access to other vital items or gear. And remember tourniquets don't work to stop neck wounds! Lol
4 is 3, 3 is 2, 2 is 1, etc
I run 5 just in case I take one to the junk
Thanks Mike. Yea, I was trained the same theory of 4 with one for each limb. Even if you don't get hit, then you have available for your soldier next to you.
If I need one tourniquet, there's a strong possibility I will need multiple, that actually makes alot of sense, thanks bud 👍
Do you recommend some form of suspension for the war belt? I found mine would sometimes drift up or down with a lot of maneuvering. If I cinch it down too tight, it hampers motion. The suspenders I added are minimalist, so they tend not to get in the way. Like your thoughts on this. Thanks.
It varies by person, body type etc. I need suspenders with my battle belt. I bought British battle belt surplus suspenders with 9€ and use them with my HSGI rig. Wandering belt without those, starts to push my trousers down during the day which is very annoying.
Man, I know your question is three years old now but have you ever tried just regular belt keepers. They basically connect your personal belt to your duty belt. I have done both military and civilian law enforcement and I have had great success with them. I typically use a minimum of six keepers, eight if my gear placement allows it. I also prefer the velcro over the button type. I think they allow for a little more flex when bent over.
Leatherman is hands down the best I’ve taken stitch’s out to fixing my car awesomeness
where can someone get that exact ALS holster?
Safariland holster finder. It looks like the 6354 that Garand Thumb uses.
Thanks for the video, but where you fit the lanyard for helicopter operations?
hey i have a question: what folding knifes do you prefer or what knives in generell do you like most for tactical/military Operations?
hope you will make a Video about this :)
Pascal H if you're an American civilian then you won't want something huge, unless you're in Alaska. Look at the Fox Dart for a folder and the le picour, or something like that, for a fixed karambit.
Both are small and legal in most places in the US.
Pascal H but I asked him the same question months ago and I think he said his knife was a black hawk brand.
If it has an edge and won't break in your hands, it is good. Lots of people have misconceptions that knives are used for silent kills. That basically never happend. Whenever you need silence, a silenced handgun is used, which while loud, is no louder than the guy screaming and struggling against you if you were to approach him.
The knife is only used for utility like cutting straps and rope, and for defense when an adversary is totally on you and you cannot get enough space to safely use your firearms.
Get knife that you can carry with you every day.
If it's tactical, Never carry a folder. Nothing can go wrong with a fixed blade.
I just set mine up. ATS belt fits like it should and is comfortable as Hell...considering I am carrying enough hellfire to defend my position.
Great video, Make more.
Thanks for watching, TR
All right! Another video!
Ordered the war belt. And inner belt. With the corona stuff going on ill see it when i see it. I plan on using the ITW fast mag pouch for pistol and rifle mag. A dump pouch. My leatherman my safariland for glock 19 with light. Paid 10 bucks for it. And a IFAK. Not using too many frags and bangs these days.
Amen
Any problems with the belt drifting around due to the lack of keepers? I find mine will ride up
TigerLand Paintball I have a brocos belt. I went to my local hardware store and got some velcro tape. I'll wear a velcro loop underbelt for my pants and have the hook velcro tape strips lined inside the brocos. works a treat. Had it for months with no issues.
Check out our collaboration with Trex arms trex-arms.com/store/t-rex-arms-orion/ It has belt retainers if you want to use them. The Gen 2 is coming out soon, but you can get an idea of the belt and what we did to completely negate that constant riding up while crouching or going prone.
Ash Tutt
excellent thanks. I have thought of trying something like that, I'll have to give it a shot. much appreciated
Coyote Tactical Solutions very interesting I like the looks of the setup thanks!
Law enforcement does three things with their belts to keep in place. 1. belt keepers. 2 using a belt with Velcro exterior and a duty belt with Velcro interior or 3. putting the belt through your belt loops. Now, many tactical duty belts in law enforcement come with Velcro on the interior so you can Velcro it to a inner belt. However, adding Velcro to belts is just as good. The other thing is to have just the right belt. With just the right belt, it'll fall around your hips due to the weight but also won't sag if fit right.
The brand of your ALS holster is an ALS Safariland holster also the point of a vest (in police work atleast) is to take weigh off your duty belt so you dont get as bad of back pain
Actually it is a Safariland ALS holster. We have several other videos that cover our body armor vest setups. You can find them in our video archive. Thanks for watching, TR
This Marine gotta replace his 6yr old serpa holster next month😟. You just talked me into switching to ALS holsters. This 0311 Rifleman thanks you for your advise 👍😘
Blue pill
Serpa for life
I suggested to a company one time that made both war belts and plate carriers the idea of connecting the war belt to the plate carrier using a rigid attachment system which would transfer a lot of the weight of the plate carrier from the shoulders to the waist just like a good backpack with waist strap does.
you would lose alot of mobility that way...
Not really. It would work the same way as a the waist strap on a large backpack for hiking by supporting the weight on the hips.
Who makes your IFAK
deltaop911 Yep, same question.
deltaop911 im almost positive its atstacticalgear.com/sof-bleeder-pouch-rip-away/
deltaop911 it's the sof bleeder, I run the same one
Gents, it's from ATS. WickedSensation has listed the correct link. Ask for Jimmy, and tell him Karl sent you.
Love this bloke. Straight talking.
awesome Vid...thanks for sharing. also, what do you keep in your blow out kit??
Nunya Biznaz , we cover Karl’s med kit in an upcoming video. So, stay tuned.
Nunya Biznaz the med kit on his belt was very compact. Wonder what brand it was...?
I watched this video so many times, and it's interesting every time
Thanks for watching, TR
I prefer the term, "WAR BELT!" OOOOORAAAH!!!
Just changed my settings on my belt to make it more accessible like you thank you for this video
Why do you carry the pistol on your belt and not in a leg holster?
Excellent question. I actually used to carry my pistol in a leg holster, just like back in the school house. However, fast forward to our 5th year of the Global War on Terror, and we changed many of our tactics. Instead of always landing right on the "X," we started doing more and more "5k Offsets." This allowed us to land the helo outside of Earshot, and then walk silently up into the target neighborhood with being detected. Wearing a Leg Holster wore my leg raw. If you don't believe me, go out and try doing a 12 mile road march with a leg holster on... You'll convert to a belt holster also. Hope this answers your question. Thanks for watching. Strength & Honor, TR.
Serpa holsters... funny stuff right there! Our department banned them years ago. Of course this crazy guy bought before the ban. It is now a great dust collector. Trying to teach the young ones correctly..Thank you sir!
Thanks for watching, TR
“ what this is it a belt” me: oh I didn’t know that
I've got that almost exact set up. Same brand ats and pouches I do have a serpa and it's never been a problem
Watching youtube to figure out how to tie a neck tie is one thing. If you are going to war and watching videos on how to do it, you're screwed.
This video is so, so wrong. I have no idea where this guy got his training.
Don ald ... Probably got his training from being in Army Special Forces.. jackass
I agree 99.9%. If your team leader or crew leader has not gone over your belt by this point, your being let down, or your letting your team down.
Whats wrong with hearing from experienced people about how they use their kit and their logic in doing so. Most kit is standardised on the most part but people tinker with it to make it work best for them.
im trying to find out how to use a navy seal save sling
Very nice video mr internet man
Yes i have a question,"lets see your war face" lol.
I love this knife setup, looks handy
this shit is every airsofters wet dream
Rubilacxe not mine, I like to keep my shit simple
airsofters yeah! LOL
And i love the MUT tool, that is what i keep on most of my kits, since i typically am running an M4 or AR type platform
Do u wear ur duty belt when u go to the bar or off field.
if i ran a bar i would have a duty belt discount. 10 percent off for those that wear duty belt or body armor to bar
Thank you Sir! Awesome video, you have shown me the light! Now I have a good idea and direction as for my battle/war belt. Thank you for your service!... nothing but love from a California Patriot‼💯🦅✝🇺🇸
Same here with the exact reason I like this video. The author, I will piggyback with this patriot.
Where can I get a couple of those flashbang grenades?
Jeremy Stubbs I was wondering to
You cant, its a controlled item by the ATF. You can however get something like a TRMR grenade that uses shotgun or pistol caliber blanks. Its reusable, is loud, and if using the "magflash" shotgun shells makes a very bright flash
Far as I know it's commercially for sale to LEOs only (I've seen some at select few gun shows) but if you do manage to get your hands on one you'll have to fill out a Form 4 and pay Destructive Device tax. Also, depending on your state laws they may have something forbidding the use of flashbangs so it's always important to check.
Also, let's say hypothetically you are able to get some flashbangs. Throwing one in your house will blow out all your windows and wreck any tv screens, computer monitors, etc as well as set off your smoke alarm. You also have the added benefit of pissing off all your neighbors. What this means is you better have a damn good reason for throwing one because police WILL investigate.
If you ask me, it's really really unnecessary to own them for anything other than cool guy points (assuming you're not military or LEO). Even if you are able to successfully use one in a defensive scenario, the backlash in court probably isn't worth it. Remember, there are always two fights: the one for your life and the one for your freedom.
*****
It's the same concept as wanting to procure select fire machine guns or rifles. Flashbangs are clearly intended to be used for offense. So yeah, I wouldn't ever plan on using one in a rule of law scenario, but I definitely don't want to have to scavenge for that kind of stuff after the shit hits the fan.
Easily made at home. As are smoke poppers. I recommend you figure out a few ways of how to make them, different materials, etc, write that down and keep it in your files. Then assemble a small stock of those materials and keep them in storage with anything else you care to have around. From there should you ever actually need them, you can make them, but you don't have ostensibly offensive/illegal items laying around that could at best degrade, or at worst be found or cause an accident. Skills over stuff.
Love the video, but can you do a video on different types of war belts and your recommended use(s) for each type
What is wrong with serpa holsters?
And Schu have you ever had the retention mechanism fail? one of .my soldiers did, luckily in the barracks not on patrol, we literaly had to cut the holster apart to get the gun out.
There have been a few incidents where people have had their finger slip into the trigger guard and had an ND due to the position and action required to operate the retention mechanism.
And Schu i dont get how you can get a ND with that. I have my Finger straight wenn i push the button so there is no chance to fire .
There is nothing wrong with a Serpa Holster! I use one everyday for a living and they are fantastic, along with the rest of my co- workers!
m4jedi serpa holsters have saved officers lives! I'm sure if you search hard enough you can find a malfunction in anything. If that's the case don't carry a gun because sometimes they malfunction 😉. I personally have never seen a Serpa malfunction, and no other officer I work with has had one. I'm talking like 100 Serpa holsters over the course of 8-10 years. I'm going with the odds. For gun retention a Serpa is the hardest for a bad guy to take out of your holster, and extremely easy for the operator to unholster.
I am speaking from a LEO standpoint. I have had 4 holsters in my career and the Serpa hands down is the best for LEOs.
There is no ALS holster for the gun I will be carrying I've tried the Safariland holsters and the retention screw came lose so I went with a Black Hawk Serpa.and it works. I have been practicing and seems to be working as expected. The pistol I have started using is a Para p 13 45 Though I also have a ruger American 45 with light.
are flash bangs legal for private citizens
Bastian Franke yes, they're called m-80's loL
em Burgess aren't they banned in 1966? and even if you get one do you need a lighter for these
Bastian Franke No you can get them though same folks that sell tannerite. Yes you have to light it but what real man doesn't carry a lighter? Lol
em Burgess for what should I carry one i have asthma so i didn't smoke and for other things i have a magnesium fire starter
Bastian Franke true but it's easier to light fuse with lighter...when I was younger...I carried a lighter just in case a hot chic needed a light. Lol
Greatings from Brasil.
Excelent explanations
Man, basically you have the equipment of 5 Bolivian soldiers
And thats why American SF folks can rock with the best of them and we only need a few to get 'er done!
where you been all my life....lol...well..at least the last 5 yrs. I need this "War belt" or some call "Battle belt". for awhile now I been fighting my side holster dragging my pants down and I'm not fond of this holster anyway and you answer my prayers finding something that is solid. I look forward into buying some of the items you mention. I didn't think about having a leatherman tool on your belt. Good thinking. LOVE LOVE the velcro medical kit. That's good tactical thinking. Thank for sharing to this Oregon dude.
Thanks for watching, TR
Nothing wrong with my SERPA since its conception. Lol 😈
Your right my brother. Safriland is better but way more expensive I own both.
Just wanted to comment on the extremely detailed and precise videography, your videos are a joy to watch, resolution is like being there live.
Thanks, I have a great film crew
It's funny that cops are transitioning their gear from duty belts to carriers while the tactical world is moving stuff off their vests, to belts.
I think people just realized its better to have both, thats what a full kit truly is
About to do some work in the sandbox and am rerouting my kit because you have yours set up to the tee.
"Made by ALS"
.....made by Safariland
Yep. Safariland 6354 DO. In case anyone was looking for it.
First time seeing that velcro medpack, love it!
Glad you like it!
Thanks for the video, and introducing me to ATS, good people over there. I picked up the war belt, and the bleeder pouch, which I've been looking for the right one for awhile. Well, I found it with them among other things. As always, Karl I got much out of all your videos. Looking to get an ALS holster next. hoping they have a 1911 model. Thank you, sir.
This is pretty much how I have mine set up only I have a baton instead of a knife and a issued drop leg holster instead of a hip.
Man this guy takes air soft to a different level.
Suspenders by tactical tailor were a life saver in iraq.
Dump pouches are great for taking extra fruits and drinks from the chow hall too.
Amen to that!!! Thanks for watching, TR
Excellent video...........I just got the same ALS holster in the mail today for my Glock 19. I ordered it after your recommendation in Combat Pistol.
Thanks for watching, TR
Could y’all do a medic’s setup or the gear they carry? I’m down for the making holes or stopping holes, but I’m more qualified to fix/patch holes.
I like the ATS gear as well. Just purchased their First Responder bag from the website. No other CLS bag comes close to quality & features. Just wish they’d be open Saturday. The customer points system is quite nice though, keeps u coming back.😁👍👍
What is the brand for the ifak? Really like how it’s velcro
ATS Tactical Gear.
Promo code TR10 saves you 10%
Just a question, why dump half full magazines in your pouch? Why not wait until it is empty? (4:15)
Why would you move to another room or building with a half full gun?
@@TacticalRifleman Good point. Thank you. Also how many magazines do you normally carry?
Love the top tips & advice! Love from Ireland 👌💪🔫🍀👍
Where do you keep your oil bottle and pull through for your weapon? Most army units like the oil bottle close by to help keep weapons working better during firefights. I’m Brit doctrine we have to keep it on us at all times.
On my plate carrier.
How did you affix your blades to your battle belt and chest rig? I see knives at Tops, Haley Strategic, and other places, but none seem to have sheaths that easily attach to gear; instead, they're just run-of-the-mill sheaths. Each of yours, however, seem like they are inserted into sheaths / holsters specifically designed for your knife to attach to the belt or chest rig.
Im just a regular Green Beret that solves problems. Sometimes legally, sometimes in the grey area, but always find a way to accomplish the mission at hand, even when it is as simple as attaching non-Molle to Molle gear.
Take off the fancy clips.
Then…
Try Zip Ties.
Thanks for watching , TR
LOVE and GREATFUL for my Serpa... especially when working large crowd events and kids trying for the stuff on the belt.. of visiting a bud and his ex shows up with the kids.. who forget their teachings from dad and reach for it from behind cause it looks cool... like all tools Serpas' have their places to be used
The Serpa is much better than a holster with no retention. That said, the next time you are in the market for a new holster, try a Safariland ALS with just the button (no hood). You'll never go back. Thanks for watching. TR.
What model Safariland ALS holster is that you’re running? I’m carrying a G19x with a TLR1 light and I’m going to add a Vortex Viper reflex sight soon.
Gene Harmon I have the same set-up but G19 MOS gen 4 there’s a seller on EBay that has the Safariland ALS holster for only 119.00.
Safariland 6354DO
Thanks for your response regarding flash-bangs... Is there any distraction advice you recommend for the home owner/ civilian?...
A dog
Seriously though, there are paintball flashbangs and airsoft flashbangs that might work for you
Was asking the other day in one of your other videos and just came across this, questions answered!
There you go. I try to answer all comments, but sometimes get busy. Thanks for watching, TR
Red River Tactical makes a hella nice holster
Who makes the belt that is in the multicam sleeve shown after 0:50? It has attachments for leg loops?🤔
ATS
Where does one purchase a flash bang? Or better yet, multiple flashbangs.
ALS. You’ll have to get you BATF-E explosives license first.
I just received my Tactical Mikes Bundle 1 from ATS and its perfect, fits great, custom size for me and its ready to go.
Sweet!!!
Top I loved this video and I get it. Heres my totally off topic question. You're retired so I know you cant still be running military issued comms. So what type of comms are you running now and where did you find PTT button kit to connect it
Scotty, actually, when teaching the military, they always bring extra radios for us to train with. There are good civilian radio systems out there. I will add it to the video idea list
Great explanation of you style kit. Thanks.
Thanks for watching, TR
top notch tips from a respected operator. TYVM for your knowledge and service.
Just added a pair of tourniquets to my rig. Next up, med kit. Suggestions??