Videos

US to Arm the Kurds with Heavier Weapons, Against Wishes of Turkey

The United States is going to provide the Kurd forces in Syria with heavier weapons as they prepare to attack the key Islamic State stronghold of Raqqa, U.S. officials said Tuesday.

The Trump Administration’s decision is not being met with much happiness in Turkey as the government of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan views the Syrian Kurdish group also known as the YPG is an extension of Kurdish terrorist organization that operates in Turkey.

The U.S. sees the Kurds as its most effective battlefield partner against IS in northern and eastern Syria.
After lengthy deliberations, the administration approved plans to provide additional weaponry to the Kurds. A full list wasn’t immediately available, but officials had indicated in recent days that 120mm mortars, machines guns, ammunition and light armored vehicles were possibilities. They said the U.S. would not provide artillery or surface-to-air missiles.
The U.S. officials who disclosed the Trump administration decision weren’t authorized to publicly discuss the matter and demanded anonymity. They described no firm timeline, with the American intention to provide the new weapons to the Syrian Kurds as soon as possible.
Senior U.S. officials including Gen. Joseph Dunford, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, have met repeatedly with Turkish officials to try to work out an arrangement for the Raqqa assault that would be acceptable to Ankara. The Turks have insisted that the Syrian Kurds be excluded from that operation, but U.S. officials insisted there was no real alternative.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is to visit President Donald Trump in Washington next week. An Erdogan adviser, Ibrahim Kalin, met on Tuesday with Thomas Shannon, the State Department No. 2 official.

Back in April, the Turks launched an airstrike on the Kurds’ bases in Syria and Iraq. The Turkish military said it killed at least 90 militants and wounded many others. The Kurds released a statement saying that 20 of its fighters and media activists were killed in the strike, which was followed by cross-border clashes.

US military officials feel, and rightfully so, that this won’t help the cause of moving the ISIS group out of Raqqa.

To read the entire article from the Business Insider click here:

Photo courtesy Reuters

US Raising the Stakes in Somalia, Despite Losing Navy SEAL Last Week

The US is going to raise the pressure on the al-Shabab terrorist group despite the loss of a Navy SEAL operator and two other wounded in an operation last week.

U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) said that the battle took place in Barii, a small town 40 miles west of Mogadishu. It was reportedly a Somali-led operation, U.S. forces reportedly came under fire when American aircraft were used to help deploy Somali commandos. Navy SEALs have been advising the Somali units.

There was also an international conference occurring in London at the same time. This is intended to increase the security and government reform in Somalia. The aim is to create a new international partnership agreement to stabilize Somalia. The aim is to stabilize the country and turn things over to Somali forces with an exit strategy for the allied countries by 2020.

In early March, the Pentagon requested new rules of engagement for its operations in Somalia to remove constraints on airstrikes and raids targeting people suspected of being al-Shabab militants. On March 24, General Waldhauser reiterated the call for more flexibility in decision-making to fight al-Shabab, saying that “it’s very important and very helpful for us to have [a] little more flexibility, a little bit more timeliness, in terms of decision-making process. . . . It allows to prosecute targets in a more rapid fashion. . . . [I]f we were given . . . those permissions and authorities, [it] will be very helpful to us.”
On March 29, President Trump granted wider scope to launch U.S. military operations by designating Somalia an “area of active hostilities” where war-zone targeting rules will apply for at least 180 days. Subsequently, General Waldhauser appeared ambiguous about the new authorities, stating “we have not been given loosened rules for authority to strike. What we have been given is we’ve been given authority to assist AMISOM forces that are on missions where, if they cannot take care of the situation on their own, then we are authorized to assist them there. We are also authorized to develop targets on our own and take appropriate action if required.”
Just a few days later, on April 24, a letter written by USAID’s Office of U.S. Foreign Disaster Assistance requested the geographic coordinates of aid groups working in Somalia. “Due to the need for increased operational security in Somalia, and based on best practices in other complex emergencies, humanitarian and development organizations may want to provide information about their fixed locations in Somalia for deconfliction,” it stated.

The US has furnished training and equipment to the Somalis, has helped pay for the security forces and has been conducting raids on located al-Shabab forces. The US is planning on stepping up the tempo despite the loss of the Navy’s special operator to weaken the terror group and to further bolster Somalia’s forces.

To read the Washington Post entire article click here:

Photo courtesy of AP

Robin Sage, Prospective SF Students Should Study Up on Pineland

“Free Pineland!” This is the cry many a prospective Special Forces student will hear during their final phase of the Special Forces Qualification Course (SFQC) that culminates in the premiere Unconventional Warfare (UW) exercise in the military, Robin Sage.

After many months of training, in some cases over a year, prospective Green Berets put all that training to the test by parachuting into the fictional country of Pineland. The former government of Pineland was a friendly one to the United States.

Following a coup that deposes the legitimate government, the SF students work with an eclectic mix of role players, former SF soldiers and soft skill MOS soldiers to raise and train a guerrilla force that will fight the enemy government troops and attempt to restore the Pineland government. They’ll teach them the basics of patrolling, raids and ambushes, communications, and medical training.

The fictional country of Pineland encompasses 15 counties in North Carolina including Alamance, Anson, Cabarrus, Chatham, Davidson, Guilford, Hoke, Montgomery, Moore, Randolph, Richmond, Rowan, Scotland, Stanly, and Union counties.

This unique training and unconventional warfare, or UW, training environment allow instructors to stress the candidates, assessing their ability to think on their feet and accomplish their team’s assigned missions. The political instability of the area, coupled with working alongside guerrillas who may act (and frequently do) outside of the rules of warfare while engaged in open warfare will place the teams in frequently faced “real-world” situations.

Robin Sage, derives its name from the town of Robbins, N.C., a central area of operations for the exercise, and former Army Colonel Jerry Sage, a World War II veteran and an Office of Strategic Services, or OSS officer who taught unconventional warfare tactics. Steve McQueen’s character Hilts in the film “The Great Escape” was based off Sage.

The enemy soldiers or OPFOR (Opposing Forces) for the exercise are generally members of the 82^nd Airborne Division from Ft. Bragg. They provide a good test for the SF candidates to take on. They’re well trained and motivated to make things as interesting as possible. We’ll delve more deeply into the civilian role players in a follow-on post.

Other units from Bragg supply the soldiers for the guerrilla force or “G-Force” that the teams will work with. They are frequently what I referred to earlier as soft-skill MOS’ or non-tactical soldiers. Finance clerks, typists, truck drivers, mechanics etc. They know their own jobs extremely well but as for sleeping on the ground under a poncho hooch, going on an ambush or a raid, doing a recon of a target and moving as a unit tactically thru the Uwharrie Forest, especially at night…never. That’s the built-in factor that makes it more difficult. The SWC (Special Warfare Center) isn’t going to give the student A-teams a platoon plus of hard-charging airborne infantry types from the 82^nd as a G-Force.

SF student medics treat one of the members of the guerrilla force during Robin Sage. (US Army photo)

The guerrillas will take their cues from the G-Force commander, a retired SF operator who will be a difficult guy to win over, as one would be in the real world. Of course, the events are sequenced faster than they would be in the real world because of time constraints in the course. But this is a very challenging part of the exercise and a deal breaker for some.

The students are formed into ODAs (Operations Detachment Alpha, popularly known as A-Teams) – along with similar lines with weapons, engineers, medics and communications sergeants as well as a Team sergeant and an Operations and Intelligence Sergeant to real Special Forces A-Teams. Depending on the number of students in the class, the candidate’s detachments may have 3-4 rather than two officers and up to 15 enlisted men.

During their final instruction in Unconventional Warfare prior to infiltration of Pineland, the SF candidates will study guerrilla warfare, sabotage, intelligence, and subversion. The detachment enters “isolation” which is a planning and preparation phase. They conduct mission analysis and plan their infiltration, linkup plan, and subsequent activities.

No one is allowed in or out without being mission cleared during isolation. At the end of isolation, the team presents a brief back to the command element to show that they’re ready to complete the mission. It is in no way like the Operations Orders given by conventional units prior to an operation as each team member will take part.

The teams will infiltrate the denied area of Pineland usually by an airborne operation, but sometimes by helicopter or truck movement if the weather does not cooperate. After infiltration, there is always a long foot movement over rough terrain to test navigational skills and moving under a heavy load. The team will have to move hard and fast to make the time arranged to contact the guerrilla band.

Using their contact plan developed while in isolation, the students must affect link up with the G-Force. Once that has been accomplished, they proceed to establish rapport with the guerrilla band leaders that we referenced above, which was referenced above.

The student A-Teams must assess the overall security of the operational area and the guerilla basecamp, assess the training and support requirements of the resistance, and then… usually, after a brief and awkward ceremony welcoming them to the resistance, proceed with training and employment of the resistance group.

The training requirements are often challenging. In a real-world resistance movement, the guerillas would no doubt be hardened and used to living on the ground. The guerrillas assigned for the exercise usually have to be taught much of the basics that field soldiers take for granted. Many have never carried a rucksack other than a time or two in basic training. This is a great time to build a real rapport with the G-Force.

In my experience, most of our 45-man G-Force came from one unit, all were clerk typists, finance clerks and similar MOS’. But their leaders bought in right away, and the young soldiers, although completely out of their element became very willing and motivated participants. It made our job much easier and more enjoyable. One of the young men, had his eyes opened, he eventually re-enlisted to get reclassified and go thru SF. Some of the other student detachments weren’t so fortunate.

As the training progresses with the guerrillas, they’ll be tasked with a few softer DA (Direct Action) targets. Raids, ambushes, and some reconnaissance. The missions get harder as the timing gets accelerated. There will frequently be a couple of missions on-going at any given time. Each of the students will rotate through a leadership position of the team and will be evaluated under the stress of leading a half-trained guerrilla band.

Upon completion of Robin Sage, the students give back to the communities in the area by doing a day of Civic Action work. It may be as simple as cutting and stacking firewood for some of the families, adding a porch or in our case, repairing a roof as well as a host of other activities. Those small gestures of goodwill make for the continuing work the SF community has in the area such a success.

Normally the team will work with not only the guerrillas, the armed band of the resistance but the auxiliary and the underground, which are key components to the resistance and very valuable tools for the prospective SF soldiers.

Special Forces’ bread and butter is the working with and building rapport with indigenous forces. Nearly every other mission that SF is tasked with will have that as a key component. Therefore, language and cross-cultural communications are very important. Robin Sage is the culmination of the entire Special Forces Qualification Course as it prepares the prospective Special Forces operator for a variety of missions and most importantly how to work with indigenous forces.

Everything they will face in Robin Sage will be just the tip of the iceberg that they’ll face in the real world. Special Forces is the premiere UW fighting force in the world. The lessons the soldiers are learning go all the way back to the hard-earned and difficult days of WWII and the OSS. Upon completion, it is back to Ft. Bragg where they’ll join the regiment and don the Green Beret for the first time.

Free Pineland.

Photo courtesy US Army

Roy Benavidez MOH Epitomized What A Special Operator Is

He was wounded 37 times by bullets, shrapnel, a bayonet, and a rifle butt but his only thoughts were on those others who were hit on that day in May 1968. His actions saved eight other men’s lives in Vietnam on that day. He was awarded the Medal of Honor for his bravery but it wouldn’t be for 13 more years. Because nothing ever came easy for Roy Benavidez.

Benavidez was born in 1935 outside of Cuero, Texas to a Mexican sharecropper father and a Yaqui Indian mother. Both of them would be dead of tuberculosis before Roy was eight years old. He was moved to his grandparents with his younger brother and he grew up with eight other cousins in the household.

He struggled in school before dropping out in the seventh grade. He worked odd jobs to help support his family; in a tire shop, on farms in the area, even shining shoes in the bus station.

Everything began to change for him in 1952 when he joined the National Guard. Three years later he enlisted in the Regular Army. He married his wife and joined the 82^nd Airborne Division in 1959. Like many other men, he moved down the street and joined Special Forces.

On his first tour of duty in Vietnam in 1965, he stepped on a landmine and was airlifted out to the states where he was told that he’d never walk again. Determined to prove the doctors wrong, he’d sneak out of his bed and began a furious nightly regimen where he’s crawl to a wall and slowly force himself up to a standing position. He recalled in a speech the agony he’d go thru to walk again.

“The doctors were initiating my medical discharge papers, but at night I would slip out of bed and crawl to a wall using my elbows and my chin. My back would just be killing me and I’d be crying, but I get to the wall and I set myself against the wall and I’d back myself up against the wall and I’d stand there — like Kaw-Liga, the Indian. I’d stand and move my toes, right and left…every single chance I got — I got. And I wanted to walk — I wanted to go back to Vietnam because of what the news media was saying about us: that our presence was not needed there; they’re burning the flag.”

A year later in July 1966, he walked out of the hospital accompanied by his wife, determined to resume his Special Forces career.

Benavidez returned to Vietnam in January 1968. He was assigned to Detachment B-56, 5^th Special Forces Group at Loc Ninh, an SF base along the Cambodian border.

On May 2, 1968, Benavidez, a devout Catholic was attending a prayer service when he heard that a 12-man patrol had inserted into a hornets’ nest of NVA, numbering between 1000-1500. The patrol of three Americans and nine Nung tribesmen was shot up and calling for immediate extraction. The ensuing battle would last for over six hours.

Three attempts to extricate the team by helicopters were driven off by intense ground and anti-aircraft fire. Grabbing a medical aid bag and armed with only a knife, Benavidez leaped on a rescue chopper and off they went.

The helicopter got to within 75 yards of the trapped men and Benavidez jumped from the hovering Huey and raced to the trapped team coming under withering fire. He was hit in the leg and knocked down. But he continued to the team and blasted by a grenade blast suffering shrapnel wounds to his face, arm, and back.

Reaching the trapped team, four men were already dead and the rest were wounded. Benavidez treated the wounded, grabbed an AK from one of the dead men and passed around ammunition. Then he directed air strikes around the perimeter to keep the NVA at bay.

Calling in a Huey to evacuate part of the dead and wounded, he was shot again in the leg. Ignoring his own wounds, he dragged the dead and wounded to the chopper, he provided covering fire. The chopper moved to the second group of men for extract with Benavidez under it, firing at the enemy.

NVA fire increased and smashed into the Huey, killing the pilot and sending the Huey crashing into the ground. Benavidez had made it to the dead team leader and removed the classified documents from around the man’s neck. He was then shot in the stomach by an NVA soldier and another grenade tore into his back and shoulders.

Despite this, and now coughing up blood, he crawled to the downed helicopter. There they formed a small perimeter and passed out the remaining ammunition. He continued to direct air strikes from F-4 Phantom jets and helicopter gunships to push the NVA back. Several of the strikes were danger close.

The North Vietnamese fire increased and mortar rounds were falling everywhere. All of the wounded including Benavidez were hit again. The American helicopter pilots were ready to attempt another rescue attempt.

Grabbing a seriously wounded American SF team member, he hoisted him over his shoulder and lurched toward the waiting helicopter. An NVA soldier believed dead, leaped up and clubbed Benavidez with the butt of his Ak-47, breaking his jaw and knocking him to the ground. As the NVA soldier lunged at Benavidez with his bayonet, Roy grabbed it with his right hand and used his Bowie knife in his left. Pulling the enemy soldier forward he stabbed him but not before suffering a slash to his right hand and his left arm being run thru with the bayonet.

Again, he attempted to drag his American comrade to the helicopter and then noticed two more NVA run from the jungle in the blind spot of the American door gunners. Benavidez grabbed an AK-47 and somehow managed to drop both of the enemy soldiers.

He then made another trip into the perimeter and brought out the team’s interpreter before finally being pushed into the helicopter and lifting off. Holding his intestines in with one hand, he held his dying teammate’s hand with the other.

Having almost bled out on the helicopter, Benavidez slipped into near unconsciousness. A doctor felt for a heartbeat and not registering one, indicated that he should be placed in a body bag with the dead. Benavidez, unable to speak because of the broken jaw, spit in the doctor’s face to let him know he was still alive.

He was then taken into the hospital where the doctors began to treat his myriad of injuries. He had seven gunshot wounds, one of them went thru his back, destroying his right lung and exited just beneath his heart. He had 28 shrapnel wounds in his back, neck, head, legs, feet, and buttocks. Both arms were pierced by a bayonet as well as his hand. His jaw was broken and the back of his head smashed by the enemy’s rifle butt. None of the doctors expected Benavidez to survive. They were wrong.

His wounds were to take a year to heal and he went back to Brooke Army Medical Center. His commander wanted to put Roy in for the Medal of Honor but instead opted for the Distinguished Service Cross believing that he’d at least receive that before his wounds would kill him. Benavidez was awarded the DSC by Gen. William Westmoreland the Chief of Staff of the Army.

Years later after the war, his commander tried to get the Army to reconsider and upgrade Benavidez’s award to the Medal of Honor. But was told that no other American had survived and could confirm his deeds.

Far away in the Fiji Islands, an American, Brian O’Connor who had been the radio man that called for that first frantic call for extraction, read about the development in the newspapers. He wrote a detailed description of the fateful event on that day in May 1968 and that Benavidez was responsible for saving the lives of eight men.

The Pentagon reconsidered and in 1981, President Ronald Reagan presented Benavidez the Medal of Honor. Reagan turned to the press and said, “If the story of his heroism were a movie script, you would not believe it”.

The official citation for Benavidez’s Medal of Honor can be read here:

President Reagan urged Benavidez to speak to the young children of the USA, something Roy took to heart and enjoyed immensely. He spoke about getting an education, learning a trade and love of country.

Here is a YouTube clip of one such speech he gave and it shows the humbleness and patriotism of the man.

Fast forward several years, my path would briefly cross with Benavidez as he was still helping with the American SF’ers hurt. While on a deployment to Central America with the 7^th Special Forces Group, my ODA commander suffered a terrible injury which would result in him becoming a quadriplegic.

In the typical snafu of the passing between the Army and the VA, his benefits were put on hold. Benavidez, who was made aware of the situation jumped in and immediately set things straight, going straight to the head of the VA and said he’d contact then ex-President Reagan if need be. The VA benefits kicked in immediately.

We thanked him and Roy would have none of it. “If I can’t use this medal to help out fellow SFers, then it isn’t worth anything,” he said. He was still bringing guys to the chopper in a way. I still have the autographed picture he gave me. It is one of my prized possessions.

Benavidez died from complications of diabetes in 1998 but his legend will live on. He’s the consummate Special Operator. And on this day 49 years ago, he showed the never quit attitude that the Special Operations Forces pride themselves on. He often finished his speeches with this closing.

I’m asked hundreds of times: Would you do it over again? In my 25 years in the military, I feel like I’ve been overpaid for the service to my country. There will never be enough paper to print the money nor enough gold in Fort Knox for me to have to keep from doing what I did. I’m proud to be an American; and even prouder — and I’m even prouder that I’ve earned the privilege to wear the Green Beret. I live by the motto of “Duty, Honor, Country.”

Photo courtesy Roy Benavidez Facebook

Rucking Tips, Hitting the Hills and Getting the Fit Right

We’ve been getting more messages and questions about rucking and as a result, I have got out on the trail with a 45-pound rucksack myself a lot more than usual which has been fun.

We’ve posted some tips based on our experience that we feel will be of good value to you. I don’t claim to know it all, but after many years in SF, these tips and techniques worked for me and hopefully, they’ll work for you as well.

Your weight should be packed up high between the shoulder blades. If your ruck has radio pouch up high, that is where the sandbag or weight plates belongs. I prefer sandbags because it will mold to your pack and back and doesn’t have any sharp edges that can rub you on a ruck.

On this particular practical exercise I used the waist strap on my rucksack, that way, the weight rides on your hips and you can loosen your shoulder straps a tad so that the weight isn’t all on them.

While saying that, I got some emails about using bricks…yes, of course, you can use them, and for the purposes of my last few rucks, I put a load of bricks in my ruck that should get you up to weight. Most of the bricks in ruck weighed between 5-6 pounds so they do take up quite a bit of room.

We covered boots in a couple of our earlier articles. I have several pairs that I take on hikes depending upon the conditions. For the purposes of this practical exercise, I wore my heavier duty Merrell Sawtooth boots. This course has quite a few rocks and rocky outcrops at the top and bottom of the loop so those boots are a perfect fit.

Part of the trail I used goes near or next to a road that is heavily traveled, especially on the weekend. A word to the wise, walk facing traffic, it is much safer and if you’re carrying a green rucksack next to a wooded area, a driver may not see you. Be safe.

The closed loop trail in “Purgatory” gives plenty of varied terrain so it was up and down some steep hills. I took my SFAS Cadre walking stick (The staff of Ra) on the course. But unlike Mr. Jones’ medallion, mine has a large snapping turtle skull attached. It makes for good conversation on the trail.

It does help with your balance, takes a bit of stress off your knees and hips on the upside of slopes as well as crossing scree. If you take a break to enjoy the view, (not recommended for Selection candidates) it will serve as a leaning post. And last but not least, it makes a heckuva deterrent for that one angry dog that seems to always show up when you are in the middle of the woods.

I’ve had this one for a long time, and I fashioned a 40mm practice grenade cap on the bottom to keep it from wearing out. However, it did get stuck between two rocks at the very end of the trail and I had to back over a boulder to retrieve it. And you can see it on the video. So much for being cool…

Again when it comes to increasing speed, I don’t recommend that you run with a rucksack on your back while in training. It puts way too much stress on your knees. There will be times on steep downhill, you can pick up a shuffle for a few steps but as for running a distance with a rucksack while prepping for selection…DON’T.

From our last article on rucking, “They’ll be times in your selection course or the qualification course that you’ll have to make up time or want to pick your pace, especially on the downhill slopes. At those times, you’re going to have to do what you must,” Learn to increase your speed without running. Running with a ruck will hurt your knees and back…take it from the guy with two arthritic knees and an arthritic back to boot.

Lengthen out your stride and generate power with your legs and your speed will come naturally without resorting to running. But in the course…do what you must, to pass.

The standard is a 15-minute mile pace to pass the courses, you should be aiming to go lower than that. Our pace was a bit slower due to the rocky terrain out there and the steeper hills, many of which you won’t find during the selection courses in the US.

Water and hydration are very important as we keep harping on in every piece. On this morning, it was cool to start, but by the time we were beginning our third loop on the trail, it had warmed up significantly and right after the final video segment, I peeled off my light jacket and was pretty sweaty. I drank quite a bit on the trail, more than I thought by the time I was done. Stay hydrated and stay the course.

One questioner asked if you can incorporate rucking with land navigation practice…Absolutely! In your training for selection, getting used to rucking where ever you go is great practice. It will build up your endurance while getting you used to carrying your ruck everywhere.

If anyone else has any questions, feel free to send them along to [email protected] or at my Twitter page @SteveB7SFG and I’ll be glad to answer them and we may use it in our next video.

Photo courtesy of US Army

Special Operations Gear Review – Merrell Sawtooth: Perfect Desert Boot

We’re always looking for an edge. That’s what Special Forces guys do, anything that will make your job easier, or yourself a little more comfortable, that’s the ticket, right? And having a piece of equipment that works, is tough, comfortable and the troops like is like nirvana.

Like I said in an earlier piece, in Special Operations, your boots and your feet are your lifelines. Depending on where I’m going and what I’m doing, will have a lot to do with what boots I’ll be wearing. About 10 years ago, while working in Morocco, I had a follow-on job elsewhere in the desert-type area and I knew I’d be doing a lot of walking on rockier, rugged terrain.

One of my buds there recommended the Merrell Sawtooth and it was a good,… no great piece of advice. As soon as my job was done over there, I came home and ordered a second pair, which remains with me today.

Although these are discontinued, they can still be found here and there on-line, so while they’re dying off, they aren’t dead yet.

I’ve taken these hiking over rocky terrain from “Purgatory” here in Central Massachusetts to the White Mountains and Appalachian Trails of New Hampshire and in the desert rocky environments of the Middle East as well as Mexico. They are good in a woodland type environment, in the mud, see the pic of rucking on a rainy, muddy day below but are at their best in a desert, dry, rough environment.

Another point in selection criteria was the fact that these can blend in well in an urban casual environment and didn’t stand out as a military type boot. While that may not be a big point for many guys, sometimes when trying to be as low-key as possible, wearing military boots isn’t the preferred method.

The construction of them and the specs from Merrell are:

UPPER/LINING

Strobel construction offers flexibility and comfort
• Nubuck leather and mesh upper
• Nubuck/Ballisticore Bellows tongue keeps debris out
• Breathable Mesh Lining maintains foot comfort by ventilating
• EVA removable footbed

MIDSOLE/OUTSOLE

Grade 7 Nylon Insole for trekking
• Compression-molded EVA foot frame provides cushioning
• Merrell® Air Cushion in the heel absorbs shock and adds stability
• 5.5mm Sole lug depth
• Vibram® Chisel Sole/Trek Rubber
• Weight: 2 lbs 14 ozs.

These are some really tough boots and they can take a lickin’ and keep on tickin’. They’re constructed with the military type of guys in mind and are built to last. They have the rounded, protected toe cap and its held up remarkably well thru the years.

The tread is thick, wide and has incredible gripping power when traveling over rocky, uneven terrain. And after years of abuse, they look like brand new. They have outstanding ankle support, with it coming right in the spot you need it most.

As with most of Merrell’s boots, I’ve found that the sizing is about a ½ size too small, order up a half size and you’ll be good to go. These boots, unlike the MOAB require a break-in period. They’re stiff for the first 10-20 miles or so, especially right behind the toe, however, mine were worn going for a couple of hour hike with no blisters. Once they were broken in, they’re extremely comfortable.

One issue with the boots is they’re prone to leak a bit when in a wet environment. I put some waterproofing on them and although it interferes with the breathing of them, in the northeast, it isn’t as big of a deal with the cooler temps and the water has stayed out.

I’m still up in the air over the footbeds provided by Merrell. Many people have complained about them having much too little cushioning. I’ve found that it wasn’t a problem for me, however, like I do with many other boots, I’ve added a heel cushion pad in them and never have a problem.

I’ve seen several complaints from guys who’ve had trouble with the eyelets and those coming off and getting ripped out when lacing the boots tightly. Again, I’ve never had that problem with both pairs I’ve owned. I’m not saying those problems don’t exist, but just that I haven’t experienced them.

Overall, I think these Merrell Sawtooths are outstanding boots. They’re the perfect blend of combat and hiking boots and will still give you the low-key look to blend into any casual environment. I wish Merrell would recommence manufacturing them although as I said, with a little digging they can still be found on-line in a few spots.

Since today is a rucking day with our SOFREP PT preparation program, it is almost time to strap them on, grab the ruck and head out in the rain this morning. Anyone up to going to “Purgatory”? Let’s roll…

Recycled Firefighter | Quick Look

Once and awhile while searching the internet, you come across a really cool product. A product that’s not only made in the USA, but made with repurposed material by an American firefighter. Recycled Firefighter, as the name implies, uses anything from decommissioned fire hose, to old nomex clothing and discarded combat boot leather. They produce some innovative products that not only support an American entrepreneur but have an interesting history as well.

recycled-firefighter-2 — Leather “Sergeant”

I prefer to carry a slim wallet in my front pocket and opted for the “Sergeant” model from Recycled Firefighter. Because of it’s simple, durable design, this handmade recycled combat boot leather wallet has found it’s way into my EDC. In addition, Recycled Firefighter offers traditional bifold wallets using various materials such as leather, hypalon and firehose. Some additional products include notebook covers, bags and EDC swag.

Specs courtesy of recycled firefighter.com:

Made from whole hides of American Military Boot Leather
Sewn with T-90 nylon thread
Edged with 1″ Mil-Spec Nylon Ribbon
Slim yet durable
Holds 4-8 cards, depending on the unique nature of the leather
1.5″ Mil-Spec Elastic Cash Strap (cash folded into thirds)
Fire & Water Resistant Leather
Registered Multicam and Multicam Arid Pattern Binding

Take a look at Jake’s website and help support a firefighter with a knack for making some pretty cool products from repurposed fire fighting gear. USA, USA, USA!

– Erik Meisner for LoadoutRoom.com

5.11 Ignitor Backpack | Initial Impression

For the past couple of years, I’ve searched for a sleek, functional backpack that I can strap my long range rifle to. A pack that will carry the load I need into the wood-line for hunting or a day at the range. I recently got my hands on a 5.11 Ignitor Backpack that on paper, meets all of my criteria. I had been using a 5.11 Rush 72 for my long range loadout so I’m very familiar with the quality of pack 5.11 produces. The Rush 72 is almost too big for what I needed and at the time of purchase, didn’t offer a way to strap my rifle to it.

With about half the volume of the Rush 72, the 5.11 Ignitor Backpack displaces 26.5 liters. There was no issue fitting my 20-60x spotting scope, Bushnell rangefinder, data book, ammo, Kestrel, magazines, bipod, water, gloves, hat and soft-shell with room for more essentials. An AR-15 used for mid range shooting was also strapped onto the Ignitor Backpack. The description on the 5.11 website eluded to the pack having the capacity to mount a long gun…I was wrong. You’ll need to spend another $50 for the Rush Tier Rifle Sleeve. This accessory is designed to carry a rifle while mounted to the outside of a Rush backpack. For use with the Ignitor Backpack, you will only need the extension for the muzzle. Which begs the question, why wasn’t this small part included in the first place?

Once loaded with about 25lbs of gear and a 10lb rifle, I took off on the maiden voyage. Not long into the trek, I found that more time adjusting the pack was necessary. It was obvious right away that the pack was riding high and not carrying the load on my hips. Additionally, the sternum strap was higher than I’m used to despite being on the lowest adjustment. The ergonomic shoulder straps were well padded and comfortable as was the hip belt. You’ll find a generous amount of molle webbing on the exterior as well as hook-loop for attaching name tapes or morale patches. Finally, there are enough internal and external pockets to organize items such as rifle magazines, radio, phone, first aid items, etc.

5.11 Ignitor Backpack specs courtesy of 511tactical.com

Overall Dimension: 21”H x 11”L x 9.5”W
Volume: ~ 1617 cubic inches and 26.5 litres
300D ripstop polyester body
840D nylon base
Zephyr suspension system
Compression straps
Dual side storage compartments
Stuff-it pocket
Hydration compartment
Adjustable belt panels
Wrap-around MOLLE- and SlickStick-compatible web platform
MSRP $174.99
Rush Tier Rifle Sleeve MSRP $49.99

From the layout of the pockets and zippers to the various lightweight materials used to save weight, my impression of the Ignitor Backpack is top notch. There is so much I like about the 5.11 Ignitor Backpack that I’m going to make every effort to fine tune the fit of this tactical pack. I want to make this pack work so badly due to its perfect volume and features. Over the next month and before the snow starts flying here in Northern Michigan, I plan to use and abuse this pack and get the final verdict out to our readers. Stay tuned…

– Erik Meisner for LoadoutRoom.com

Tru-Spec H2O Proof Jacket | Review

It’s cooling off outside in most of the northern US as fall is upon us and winter is fast approaching. In these “fringe” months, it can be 38F and drizzling in the morning yet clear up and reach temps in the upper 60’s by afternoon. The challenge is leaving the house with the right jacket on. In these dynamic conditions, you are literally covered with the new Tru-Spec H2O Proof jacket.

Since 1996, Tru-Spec has filled the need for high quality yet affordable military and law enforcement uniforms. As a result, thousands of military, law enforcement and emergency service workers depend on Tru-Spec products daily. Manufactured in their state of the art facility by over 1000 employees, Tru-Spec continues to lead the way in innovation. All the while listening to their customers feedback to further enhance the finished product. The Tru-Spec H2O Proof Jacket is one such item.

2 main components comprise the H2O Proof 3 in 1 Jacket. A waterproof outer shell along with an insulating inner liner. In snotty weather, saying dry is the key to maintaining warmth. And with a 2-layer waterproof breathable outer shell, this is easily achieved. I’ve been an avid skier for more than 40 years which makes me old and wise. Because of this, I’ve owned jackets consisting of the all the waterproof fabrics on the market from various manufacturers. I have found that most jackets fail to maintain their waterproofness due to seam failure. To combat this common problem, Tru-Spec utilizes an environmentally safe Bemis seam tape on all panel joints.

The outer shell has several features that will be appreciated by LEO and military users. First are the side zippers that can be opened up to expose a holstered sidearm or radio. These zippers have a snap flap at the hem line to secure under the holster keeping the jacket in place. Heavy duty waterproof zippers are used for the main and side pit zips. Traditional zippers are found on the 2 front hand pockets, 2 chest pockets and the rear pockets. A unique feature of the Tru-Spec H2O Proof Jacket is the detachable ID panels located within the chest pockets and rear cape pocket. Additionally, the hood can also be detached and stored in a large rear lumbar pocket when not needed.

truspec-4 — Waterproof side zips for access to sidearm

While the outer shell is keeping you dry, the inner insulating liner is trapping body heat to keep you warm. The meat and potatoes of this jacket is the machine washable quilted synthetic insulation. The insulating layer can not only be used alone on dry days, it can be zipped into the outer shell as a 3 in 1 system. The main zipper can be used to attach the two jackets together along with collar and cuff snaps. Once connected, the user has a heavy-duty waterproof work coat. The insulating layer incorporates the same side zipper openings to retain the use of a duty belt or holster. Another nice feature is the soft touch fabric that lines the collar and chin when fully zipped up.

I’ve been able to use the Tru-Spec H2O Proof Jacket for over a month in Northern Michigan and have concluded that this is a solid service jacket. Although the waterproof outer shell is all business when it comes to keeping you dry, it lacks a little breathability while conducting strenuous activities. While working on one of my job sites this fall, I was up and down ladders all day and had to quickly open the pit zips to ventilate the jacket. In all fairness, I’m comparing this to my Mammut Alpine shell that features a superior breathing Gore-Tex Pro material and a much higher price point. The waterproof zippers are amazing and seem to stand up well to repeated use. Overall, the jacket is a little heavy as compared to others I own which I assume will translate into durability on the job.

If you are a LEO, contractor or military professional and are looking for a versatile jacket for all conditions, take a look at the Tru-Spec H2O Proof 3 in 1 Jacket. Tru-Spec offers the 3 in 1 jacket in both black and navy colors. Other jackets in the H2O Proof line are available in Coyote as well.

Features of the Tru-Spec H2O Proof Jacket courtesy of truspec.com

100% tactical nylon shell construction
100% nylon Cumulus jacket construction
Quilted synthetic insulation in jacket
Zippered front closure with standup zip-through collar
Detachable hood rolls and stows away with wraparound chin guard, flexible wire brim and hook volume adjustment
Breathable, waterproof and windproof
Bemis tapes seams for a completely dry interior
Dual lower hand pockets feature zippered closures and waist drawstring access
Two chest pockets with pull-out ID panels and zippered closures
Back features a cape opening with zippered closure and a detachable ID panel
Back pocket on the waist
Jacket and liner each have size zippers for fast duty belt access and improved ventilation
MSRP $244.95

– Erik Meisner for LoadoutRoom.com

Daniel Defense MK18 with Surefire SOCOM Suppressor

Watch as Loadout Room writer, Mike Jones, runs his Daniel Defense Mk18 with Surfire SOCOM Suppressor. For a more detailed look at the Daniel Defense Mk18, check out his detailed review HERE.

– Scott Witner for LoadoutRoom.com