Gear is not what makes the man, especially not the fighter - but gear is a great aid to us in self defense and survival. The right gear, good gear, can make your life that much easier.
Concealment vests, solid and reliable footwear, etc. are key elements for how many of us "dress for success" when appropriate.
The right clothing is essential for survival in harsh conditions.
A nice gear-bag to stow all your off-body kit in helps keep things organized so you can find stuff when you need it.
You can spend hundreds of dollars on all these items - and they are well worth it. Or, occasionally, you can get lucky.
I've got a favorite thrift store that I visit occasionally to get cheap books (First Editions are a hobby and side-business for me, and this is a great source) and just have a look-see at what they have.
A couple months ago I found a really nice reversible lightweight synth-fleece vest, no label but of high quality manufacture, that makes a really nice cover garment. Paid around $5 for it.
Today, I stopped by there again, and managed to make several good finds.
I found a very nice PolarTec brand cold-weather hood/neck covering - in excellent shape, no stains, tears, or busted stitching. Excellent piece of kit, $1 - for an extra buck each I grabbed two good watch caps, one Old Navy synthetic fleece in "friendly" yellow, and one of wool. I'm big on watch caps, and am always glad to have a few around.
I found a fairly spiffy Old Navy bag, sort of a "messenger" style but a little larger - Faux surplus gear, made out of canvas and actually very sturdy. Lots of pockets, and "stylish" enough to blend nicely, and still "tactical-ish" enough to make me happy. Around $5.
Found another interesting vest, this one for $15 - black with OD green interior and edge binding, multi pocket, fairly well made nylon vest, "modern urban wear" of some sort. Drapes well, should make a nice cover garment (looks "faux-tactical", which just blends as being hip) - and has the interesting feature of having a small backpack built into the back. No idea how much it can support, but am going to put it to the test. Even if that aspect of it is crappy, its another good vest - emergency fall-backs in case something happens to my KAVU Baranof.
And, last but certainly not least - on my way to check out I happened to see a pair of boots that looked nice, so I checked them out. A brand new (I mean brand new, clean, un-scuffed, perfectly clean soles and still the "new shoe" smell) pair of Rocky 9" Basic duty-boots - a MSRP $230 "tac" boot - and in my size. The price you ask? $29.
So a Thrift Store may not be anything like the equal of your local tac-gear shoppe, but keep your eyes out - you never know what you might find.
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