OldSolduer said:
RFHC you wouldn't get jacked by me, just a very mile reprimand....there are some personnel is key positions that need "education" (reality check) on why troops do what they do when it comes to web gear, tac vests etc.
They do it because it works for them. I say let them do it.
See... this goes along with my "utilitarian view" of tactical equipment.
Here's how I see it; and this comes from working as a machinist. If you take your job seriously, and are professional, you want to make sure you do your job to the best of your ability. In trades dependent on tools and equipment, this means having the best/right equipment for the job. Some employers supply equipment which is suitable to get the job done, but sometimes you want equipment which will help you work more efficiently, quickly and/or comfortably... This is when you pull out of pocket to get what you need.
This equipment doesn't have to be the most expensive, just what works for you, since you're the one using it. But either way, you, as the professional should know, or will learn with time, what you need. And if you don't, all you have to do is merely pay attention to those around you who have more experience doing the same job, and see what they use... use this as a basis and develop your own needs.
There are a lot of companies out there who allow this, and even give allowances for it. I worked for a shop which gave yearly tool allowances for hand tools, measuring equipment and storage, and when you're done working there, no matter the reason, you kept what you bought... in the event you required it for your next job (I have a lot of tools). This may not work for the CF, but if such equipment is retained, then it can be reissued when a member wants to spend some cash on the same piece of kit... thus saving money.
So, in summation; The kit we carry, no matter the trade, element, rank, etc, should reflect our needs to get the assigned job done, and should not be dictated by the parade state of the unit... The enemy doesn't care what we look like on parade and our ability to do our job, no matter the trade, should be paramount. Simple as that.