Army Surplus 365 Blog

British Army Windproof Combat Smock.

Fri, 20 Jan 2012 12:41:16 +0000

We all know this one. We’ve seen this in use for countless years in its various guises as combat jacket, combat smock, Combat windproof, Combat Parka.

I love my windproof smock. Its ended up being like a handbag, with my torch, pens, old tobacco tin of bits, tape measure etc etc all in its pockets. It’s warm, and goes well over a base layer and fleece or jumper. It gets abused when I’m going about my normal routine as well as fishing. I usually wear a Norgy (Norwegion Army fleece top) underneath, which makes a brilliant warm layer. Its gets cold in Norway! Or I’ll wear a British army fleece. Sometimes I layer up both the norgy and the fleece if I’m sat still when Pike fishing in the winter, and that’s nice and toasty.

I’ve had about three of these over the years. Tough as they come, they will outlast any jacket you care to mention from the high street including all the fancy shmancy ones from camping or walking brands that may have lots of special properties, but will not suffer the abuse a combat smock can take. Remember, these jackets are built for purpose, for combat. They are not designed to let you down or come apart.

Whilst they are not waterproof, they will hold off a light shower, however, that’s when you can throw your Goretex shell jacket over the top.

Of course not everyone likes wearing DPM (camo), but there’s always the Desert version.

Till next time.

Bones.

Army Surplus 365

Combat Trousers,standard issue for the clubber and the tradesman.

Mon, 12 Dec 2011 18:49:30 +0000

Apparently its now official that combat trousers are returning to the high street, the height of fashion during the 90's is definitely making a return. With many stores, including us, offering camouflage prints but it is the combats we are noticing a marked increase with. It remains to be seen however if the combats will become once again regulation issue for the 20 somethings and the clubbers.

Combat trousers are without doubt both a very popular item of fashion clothing and work wear, having extra pockets on the side and the rear they can hold many items of equipment without the need to carry a bag. For use as work wear they are often made of durable fabric which gives them increased durability and strength. For casual wear they come in an abundance of materials, styles and colours making these a popular choice of clubwear and even gym wear.

While there may be variations in style and colour etc, one feature remains constant and that is pockets. Most combat trousers will have a number of small, medium and large pockets along the legs and standard pockets are often a little larger also. Comparing them to regular trousers combats tend to be much looser fitting and a little larger which allows for easy movement.

If you are looking to buy a pair of combat trousers then you need to check out certain features depending on what they are to be used for. If this is for work wear or outdoor pursuits then the material needs to be fairly tough and durable in order withstand this kind of activity. The seat and the knees often have a double layer of material which is important if you are going to be spending time sat down or kneeling on open ground outdoors. These features are also good for workwear as strain is often placed on these areas by bending and stretching.

Ripstop fabric is often used in today's modern combat trousers and it is this material that gives them their toughness, this material can withstand abrasions and small tears without a larger tear forming. This is something you need to be aware of as not all modern combats will be made of this material, so you do need to check it out.

Besides the material the seams should be well sewn and both the zips and buttons need to be of a good quality and well secured to the material. Some other things you might want to think about are the colours and how many pockets you are actually going to need. Do you want a camouflaged pair of combats or a plain colour, just think about these things a little as you are likely to have your combat trousers for quite a while. If your combats are to be used for clubbing and generally hanging around with your mates then you shall definitely be looking for a lighter fabric, also the the colours will probably be more important to you.

We have available online a wide range of fashion combat trousers all available in a variety of cuts, materials and colours, also available are the hard wearing rugged combats for those outdoor pursuits or work wear.

The Compass is still useful

Fri, 09 Dec 2011 21:10:29 +0000

Definition of some things is quite necessary even though we all know what they are. Sometimes we just don’t think about describing them. An example is a compass. Have you ever thought of defining a compass or do you just get up and start using it. Let me define it for you. You see, a compass is a device that is used for navigation which uses earth’s magnetic field so as to determine your geographical position. The Chinese were the first to create a compass. The Vikings of northern Europe also used a crude compass in the 12th century. Nowadays, I am sure that when someone talks of using a compass, he or she may seem backward. There has been an upsurge of technology and this may seem to render the use of compasses obsolete. For your information, compasses are still beneficial. First of all, they do not require the use of power unlike many of the current navigational devices or systems. You will be saving on energy and power when you use a compass.

A compass helps in navigating in the unknown. Obviously, it is easy to navigate from a position that you are familiar with. A compass can help you navigate from an unknown position by using a method called triangulation. Here, you first choose two different points of reference in your surroundings. For example, you can identify a landmark or rather a feature to the northwest and another to the southwest. From here, use your compass to record their directions in degrees from where you are as in your position. Try to place the two landmarks on your map. After that, draw lines from the datum points corresponding to the angle from all positions that you have recorded. You can easily know your position by seeing where the lines intersect. It is not easy for a GPS to know your position unless you are familiar with it.

A compass is also portable. The dimensions of most modern compasses are slim and compact and this gives you the ability to add one pack of any size without worrying about weight augmentation. As a matter of fact, most compasses fit in your pocket. There are other compasses that come with straps which help you hang them around your wrist or neck without losing them. Imagine being stranded in an unknown area. Your car has broken down and you cannot use your GPS system. Without doubt, you will need a compass to navigate out of that area.

Do you like being your own boss? Well, using a compass gives you this ability. Imagine being in a wilderness that is far away from town or even a village. Most probably you will not trust anyone you come across. As long as you have a compass and an accurate map, there is a high chance that you can navigate the area without asking anyone for directions. You will not even have to worry about a power source. In essence, you are your own boss and the fact that you are not talking to a stranger means you may actually save your life.

No matter how advanced technology is, a compass cannot be ruled out as being insufficient. It was sufficient during the time of the ancient Chinese and it is still sufficient now.

To View our selection of Navigation Aids Click Here!!!

Military Camouflage

Fri, 18 Nov 2011 22:40:24 +0000

One of the most amazing techniques for survival is camouflage. Camouflage is not only used by humans but also animals. With natural camouflage animals are able to hide themselves from predator and prey. People have decided to apply camouflage seen at animals to their life. From the beginning of human civilization peoples have been using camouflage in different forms.

The function of camouflage in war is very simple. Camouflage is used to hide yourself and your equipment from the enemy. Camouflage has played a crucial role in most countries in the past 100 years. It was especially important in military operations. Military camouflage is an application used on fatigues and military equipment. It became an essential part of modern military tactics. Before camouflage, armies tended to use bright colors and bold, striking designs.

The intent of military camouflage is to disrupt and outline by merging it with surroundings. It helps to make a target harder to spot or hit.

We distinguish few types of camouflage patterns. Patterns used in desert areas are beige and light brown. In forested areas military camouflage patterns are in green and brown colors. There are also patterns used in urban and snowy areas. For snowy areas camouflage pattern is in white colors so it can blend in with the snow. For urban areas grey, white and black colors are used.

Camouflage becomes an important part of modern military tactics. A different type of military camouflage is used in different countries.

There are two types of camouflage – natural and artificial. Natural camouflage is vegetation (or materials) that are native to the particular area. Second type is artificial. It is any material or substance that is produced for coloring and covering something. With camouflage sticks or face paints we are able to cover exposed areas of skin. Striping, blotching and combination are types of camouflage patterns that the sniper team uses.

In our web shop we are offering you military camouflage things. Ghillie suits, Camo cream, Face Paint, Camo tape and many other military camouflage things can be found. All prices are affordable and accessible to everyone.

army-surplus.org.uk now Army Surplus 365

Mon, 10 Oct 2011 18:06:54 +0000

The Army Surplus Store army-surplus.org.uk is now part of Army Surplus 365

On the 29th September 2011 the Army Surplus store army-surplus.org.uk became part of Army Surplus 365. We will continue to offer the same great level of service as provided by army-surplus.org.uk. We would also like to offer our warmest welcome to all of army-surplus.org.uk customers and hope that you have a pleasant shopping experience with us.

We are an ex-forces and family run business who pride themselves in providing top notch customer service.

As well as the acquisition of army-surplus.org.uk, Army Surplus 365 has also established links with Forces Reunited. Anyone visiting the Forces Reunited website will notice that all shopping links are directed to the Army Surplus 365 website.

Forces Reunited is the largest British Armed Forces Community on the web and a fantastic resource for anyone wishing to connect with old comrades or shipmates. You will also find links to the military genealogy site, which has the largest database of british military records on the web. There are also links to military dating and discounts.

Forces Reunited is a fantastic website which Army Surplus 365 is now proud to be part of.

5% OFF with Saltash Card

Fri, 02 Sep 2011 14:14:30 +0000

5% OFF WITH SALTASH CARD

Army Surplus 365 is now part of the Saltash Card scheme offering 5% off all items in store. The Saltash Card scheme is Supported by the Saltash Town Council and Saltash Chamber of Commerce.

Saltash residents who hold a Saltash Card will be entitled to the 5% discount in store.

The Saltash Card can be bought for £2 at the Guildhall Saltash, Saltash Library or at the Bookshelf, Fore Street, in Saltash.

Five Items That Every Camper Should Have

Fri, 22 Jul 2011 13:20:42 +0000

Have you ever been camping and thought to yourself - "I wish I had a.....". I'l leave the blanks to you. Here are five items that every camper should have in their kit bag. They are the kinds of items we never think of until we need them,

All-In-One Tool - The all in one tool converts in a shovel, hammer, and hatchet - handy tools to have at any campsite.
Wire Saw - A wire saw has 360 degree teeth and comes with finger rings for easy use. Great for cutting through tree branches.
Web-Tex Sol95 Sewing Kit - A sewing kit is a perfect example of the "I wish I had.." problem. A tear in your tent, shirt, trousers can be quickly fixed with a good sewing kit. This kit includes thread, needles, needle threader, safety pins, and buttons.
Jack Pyke Multi-Purpose Knife - In the tradition of the good old-fashioned Swiss Army knife, this multi-purpose knife includes knives, saws, scissors, can openers, corkscrew, screwdrivers, toothpick, and tweezers.
Web-Tex Steel of Fire Survival Knife - Do you need another knife? Can you have too many? This knife includes emergency whistle, LED torch, and an integrated 6mm firestarter.

While those five items may not be considered essential by most campers, when the time comes to use one, you'll be saying "I'm so glad I brought....along"!

How Tents Have Changed In Twenty Years

Thu, 21 Jul 2011 14:58:04 +0000

Twenty years ago, tents were cumbersome affairs that often took a while to construct. Just carrying them around was difficult. Aluminium poles, ropes, metal pegs, and the tent itself, often with a fly sheet as well. Today, tents are lightweight, come with either telescopic poles, or no poles at all. Today's tents are easily packed atop a rucksack and can be assembled ready for use in minutes.

This has come at cost - progress always does. Tents now serve one purpose: sleep. To achieve lightweight and quick assembly, tents have lost room, particularly head room. You're lucky to get a metre of head room these days. However, taking the practical approach, a tent is for sleep or to escape the elements, so it doesn't need to be large and burdensome.

The Highlander Iona 2 Tent is a good example. It packs down to a lightweight (1.7 kg) and easy to carry 53x13x13cm, yet assembles to 205x150x105cm. This is a tent that is best reserved for the warmer months, even if it is a little rainy. The sewn in groundsheet will provide protection from ground water while the 190T PU coated polyester will provide protection from the rain itself.

If you're looking for a faster setup, then consider the Highlander Rockall 2 Man Pop-Up Tent. This tent just pops up and doesn't require pegging to the ground. It weighs a little more at 2.8kg but you do get a little more head room with the dome at 115cm.

Two man tents like those two are popular with hikers because they are lightweigt and they can be set up in minutes. For single hikers, there's plenty of room for yourself and your rucksack, important for when the weather quickly changes - and you know how often that happens here in the UK.

Hiking Socks - Its The Simple Things That Make A Difference

Wed, 20 Jul 2011 14:11:34 +0000

If you do a lot of walking, you'll know how important a good pair of shoes is. When it comes to outdoor adventuring, while shoes or boots are important, so too are the socks you wear. Your feet are very important to your success when out adventuring, yet they can become injured very quickly.

The wrong socks can result in blisters on and above the heel. In the right conditions, these can become infected very quickly. For your feet, poor ventilation and perspiration control can lead to severe bacterial infections. The answer is very simple, good shoes or boots and good quality socks.

Viper Coolmax Socks resist odours and mildew while providing reinforced heel and toe areas. Being a wool mix, they breathe helping to keep your feet reasonably healthy. The fabric itself is woven to provide the best possible comfort and care for your feet.

The Mil-Com Patrol Socks are another kind of sock that are wool blended and so will provide comfort and care for your feet. These socks have good stretch features so they come in a one-size-fits-all arrangement. They are also available in black or green.

Having the right socks can make a huge difference to how much you enjoy your next outdoor adventure. If you're camping, you need socks that are easy to wash, and even easier to dry. They need to be comfortable while helping your feet breathe. Get it right and you'll have a great trip - get it wrong, and your feet will be a constant reminder of poor planning.

Practical Outdoor Uses For Security Belts

Tue, 19 Jul 2011 13:58:01 +0000

If you're into outdoor activities such as paintball, camping, trekking, mountain (or rock) climbing, fishing, or caving, then you'll know how difficult it can be to take all the essentials along with you. There's only so much you can take in a rucksack and while there are very practical vests with detachable pouches, they can be quite hot when you're exerting yourself. There are a number of alternatives you can consider, including pouches that hang from belts, or belts that have pouches already attached.

The Viper Security Patrol Belt System is one belt that has a wide range of uses. The belt system comes with:

Mobile phone holder
Notebook holder
Glove pouch
Baton/torch holder
Key keeper
Handcuff pouch

Each of those pouches and holders have a number of uses. The handcuff pouch can be used for small maps, a medical kit, compass, or any other items that you can fit in. The mobile phone holder is obviously very practical, and it has an easy release so you can access your phone quickly. The belt itself features a quick-release buckle and is available in sizes ranging from 32" to 50".

A second version of this belt, the Viper Security Belt System, has a similar arrangement of pouches with the exception of the mobile phone and notebook holders. Instead, it has a belt keeper & double mag pouch.

While security belts can be big, heavy, and cumbersome, these are relatively lightweight yet tough enough for any outdoor activities. If a security guard can chase a criminal wearing a fully laden belt, then trekking, fishing, paintballing, and camping should be a piece of cake.

Protecting Your Licenses While Trekking And Camping

Mon, 18 Jul 2011 12:28:36 +0000

Paperwork is always a hassle when you're out trekking or camping. These days in the U.K., we need licenses for just about everything.

Fishing: It's not just a simple license like in some other countries; there are different licenses for each type of fishing. Likewise, when it comes to hunting, you need a license for your shotgun, and perhaps even a permit to hunt in some areas. The question is then, What do you do with those licenses and permits?

One simple solution is to use a Viper Armband ID Holder. While designed for ID cards, you can use them for any paperwork including licenses and permits - and they are on display for any rangers to see, and easily accessible when required. The Viper armbands come with elastic straps, making them easy to put on and take off, and comfortable as well.

If the armband is not suited, then you should consider the smaller but no less suitable Viper 3 Way ID Holder. This can be hung from the neck, worn around the wrist, or attached to your belt. This ID holder will handle any 6 x 10cm cards or documents that can be folded to that size. Given our penchant for credit card sized licenses, they'll certainly fit into this holder.

Having your documents handy is ideal should you ever need to show them. Holders are also ideal because they keep all of your necessary licenses in the one place. ID holders will also keep your licenses relatively dry and there's little risk of accidentally losing one. We need licenses for everything these day, so we also need holders that can securely look after them, and ID holders are one of the easiest and cheapest ways to go about it.

Must Have Military Footwear Accessories

Sun, 17 Jul 2011 23:20:49 +0000

If you have military footwear such as parade shoes or military boots, then you're going to need a ready supply of accessories. While footwear accessories generally fall into the laces and polish category, they're not the only accessories available.

That's not to say that laces are not important. You should have several pairs of spare bootlaces on hand at all times. They take up little space in a rucksack, and you really don't know when you're going to need them. Boot polish is simply a must have. If you want your boots (or parade shoes) to go the distance, then you need to keep them clean, apply plenty of protective boot polish, and to keep them shiny. Boot polish is especially useful for keeping the uppers water resistant.

Web-Tex have a neat little boot care kit that comprises boot polish, spare laces, both a small and large brush (application and polishing) and polishing cloth to finish the job. It all fits neatly into a small pouch that can be put in your rucksack.

If you do a lot of walking, or a spend a lot of time wearing your boots, you'll know how smelly they can become over time - and your feet as well. You can eliminate that smell by using special insoles. The Viper Four Layer Insole is a washable and breathable comfort insole that is dour-free and has anti-bacterial properties. These insoles provide support and comfort to your feet, and to everyone else's noses.

Military boots and parade shoes can be an expensive investment so you need the right accessories to look after them. Of course, while we can provide those accessories, you'll have to do the work yourself.

Planning A Holiday In Northern Scotland - We've Got The Woolies You Need

Sat, 16 Jul 2011 14:24:10 +0000

It may be the middle of summer, however popular holiday getaways like those offered in the north of Scotland still get cool. With an average daytime temperature of around 15c, your still going to need some winter woolies. Even you plan on doing a little trekking, and that regions is famous for great walks, then you need the right sort of woolies.

Northern Scotland is not the only place in Britain where it still gets cold in summer. Having the right clothing for the conditions is a must. Your jumper or jacket needs to be at the least, water resistant, if not fully waterproof. They need to be lightweight - the last thing you need is large bulky jumper or jacket burdening your load when you warm up. Of course, that latter is equally important. If you're going to wear a jumper or jacket, it needs to be one that can keep your body heat locked in.

The Jack Pyke Lightweight Fleece Top is ideal for day trips. It is long sleeved with a neck zip. Being lightweight, it's easy to pack on top of your rucksack - handy for when you need it. If the weather is cooler then you may need something a little warmer.

The Jack Pyke Countryman Jumper is a great alrounder. It has a full zippered front allowing you to wear it fully opened or closed. The jacket is windproof, waterproof, and reversible and features both internal and external zippered pockets. With a 30% wool blend, it will certainly keep you warm under most conditions.

Staying warm is important since loss of body heat can cause a range of problems, the most notable being disorientation. If you out trekking then this is one problem you can ill-afford. Taking a lightweight jumper or jacket could mean all the difference to your survival should the temperatures fall suddenly - and we all know how often that happens.

Load Carrying Vests For Essential Extras

Fri, 15 Jul 2011 14:27:31 +0000

Camping and trekking can be demanding, especially when you're limited in the supplies and equipment you can take with you. The military has it all planned for their personell. Trousers have extra pockets, rucksacks are designed to utilize every inch of space, both on the inside and the outside, and for those essential extras, the military designed special load carrying vests.

The Desert Tactical Load Carrying Vest is a genuine British issue vest - the same vest that British soldiers wear when on patrol in Afghanistan. These vests are lightweight and come with several pockets already built in. What makes these vests special are the pouches that can be attached to them. Each pouch has been specifically designed to do a job, and to fit neatly onto the vest in such a way it doesn't overburden the soldier, allows freedom of movement, and easy access to the contents.

Pouches include a water bottle pouch, medical pouch, small and large utility pouches, and ammunition pounches - and that's just a small sample. For domestic use, these pouches can be used for anything. The water pouch is ideal for a water bottle and the medical pouch is ideal for a small medical kit, or essential medication that you need to have close at hand.

The real benefit of a load carrying vest is that you get to choose which pouches best suit your needs. They are easily attached to the vest, and with velcro openings, are easy to access when ever necessary. The vests are sold in Grade 1 As New Condition and would be perfect for those that need to carry those essential extras.

101 Uses For Binoculars

Thu, 14 Jul 2011 13:30:45 +0000

When I was growing up, my favourite 'toy' was an old pair of binoculars. I could watch the birds in the trees, the animals in the woods, and even my friends as they played in the park. Now that I've grown up a little, I still have a pair of binoculars (several actually) and they still come in very handy. I could give you a long list (like 101 uses) of where they come in handy. Instead, I'll give you my favourite four.

Sport - Binoculars are one of the best tools for getting close up action in any sport. Whether it's football, cricket or horse racing, having a close up of the action really does add to the entertainment.
Hunting - While out hunting, it always pays to spot your prey from a distance first, and that's where a good pair of binoculars comes in handy.
Trekking - If you like to get out into the back country and do a bit of trekking, then binoculars provide a closer look at the countryside.
Sightseeing - Perhaps my favourite. If you are going to go on holiday, especially if it's to somewhere new, then be sure to take your binoculars. You can't always get to every place you would like, but a good pair of binoculars means you can still get a close up view of everything, even if it's from a distance.

When it comes to binoculars, an army issue 10x50mm is all you need. These binoculars come with a case, neck strap, and cleaning cloth and feature fold down eye cups for those who need to wear spectacles. At £19.95, they are inexpensive yet tough enough to handle a lot of treatment. More importantly, they do the job.

Joggers - Use GPS To Track Your Speed And Distance

Wed, 13 Jul 2011 13:15:10 +0000

Every day there are millions of people jogging around our streets, parks, and sporting grounds. While many know how long they have been jogging each day, few know how far they have jogged (in miles) or what sort of speed they have been jogging at. Research has shown that while walking and jogging are good for you, you gain the best results by really getting that heart rate up.

It's become very easy to gain all of that information, however, it often requires several different devices at once. A pedometer to measure your distance, a heart rate monitor to measure your effort, and a good guess (or good maths) to measure your average speed. Now, you can do away with all of that with a simple watch. The Garmin Forerunner 110 GPS can provide all of that information at a press of a button.

The Forerunner 110 uses GPS to determine how far and how fast you are running while a heart rate monitor can measure how many calories you are burning up through your efforts. At the end of your jogging session, you can connect the device to your computer and download all of the information. This makes it very easy to compare each day's workout, and to see if you are improving.

There's no denying the benefits that people receive through running, jogging, and walking. However, you will gain more benefits by being able to measure each session and by setting goals designed to increase your heart rate over time. The Garmin Forerunner 110 GPS is the perfect tool for measuring you exercise sessions. Being a unsex device, it's suitable for everyone.

Camp Cooking While Not Damaging The Environment

Tue, 12 Jul 2011 12:53:31 +0000

If you're out trekking and camping, then one concern that many people have is that they leave as little impact on their environment as possible. Digging holes and lighting camp fires does have an effect on that environment, even if only marginal. However, multiply it by hundreds of campers and that effect is no longer marginal. Modern campers live by a simple rule - take in what you need and take home what you take in - and that includes cooking meals.

Rather than lighting some form of camp fire, you can buy portable cookers that fold up flat for transport. Not only that, the fuel source is packed flat and it burns completely so it leaves no residue. That means there are no ashes to bury, and you don't have search the camp area for fuel. Your camp cooker is also safer when it comes to any risk of forest fire - always a risk when you light a camp fire.

Mil-Com produce an excellent little Portable Cooker - it folds up to a tiny 11.5 x 9.5 x 6.5cm - smaller than a notebook computer. The Mil-Com Portable Cooker Refills come in a pack of 8 fuel tablets. They are easy to ignite and produce a good supply of heat, perfect for cooking any meal while out camping. These portable cookers are ideal for a quick setup. For example, for a hot midday meal. They are also quick and easy to pack away ready for you to continue your journey.

Being able to trek and camp without having any significant impact on the environment is becoming important. For those trekkers who are conscious of their impact, portable cookers and the portable solid fuel tablets may be the perfect addition to your next trip. They are lightweight and easy to transport in a rucksack and would come in real handy if you suddenly find yourself stuck for a day or two away from resources.

UV Eye Protection For Outdoor Action

Mon, 11 Jul 2011 12:45:24 +0000

Ultra violet (or UV) rays from the sun can affect the eyes and skin no matter where you are - even the North Pole. It's a simple equation, if you can see the sun, then UV rays are a danger. In the middle of summer, those UV rays can even penetrate cloud cover and do significant damage. To protect your eyes, you need a good pair of sunglasses.

Our Viper Tactical Glasses are perfect for the task. These glasses meet the ANSI Z87.1 safety ratings and have a UV classification of UV400. If you're a little trendy, these sunglasses come as a set that includes interchangeable smoke, grey, high contrast yellow, and clear with multi-layer reflective tint lenses.

In order to keep your sunglasess (and spare lenses) safe, the Viper Tactical Glasses come in a tactical hard shell case. The frames prescription quality and you will also receive a cleaning cloth made specifically for glasses, and a microfibre bag designed to keep your sunglasses dust free.

Whether it's summer or winter, eye protection is vital. Sunlight bouncing off snow can cause severe glare - in fact, any bright sunlight can. For many people, that bright glare can result in eye strain, headaches, and even severe migraines. Protect your eyes with sunglasses - and we suggest the Viper Tactical Glasses - they look fashionable, protect your eyes, and are very comfortable to wear.

There's Never Enough Pockets In Your Clothing

Sun, 10 Jul 2011 12:39:58 +0000

There's one thing that annoys most hikers - there are never enough pockets to store everything. One of the better inventions to come out of the military were the shorts that included extra pockets at the thigh. They're called cargo pockets. These are deep pockets that are large enough to carry maps and compass; medical packs; or even pre-packaged foods.

Army Surplus 365 have the military current issue Desert Camo Shorts in stock. These are classed as used but in Grade 1 Condition. They have a back pocket, the traditional two hip pockets, and two deep thigh pockets. They are ideal for trekking, camping, or even the beach.

You can match your camo shorts with a current issue Desert Shirt Combat Jacket. Don't let the long sleeves put you off - you need the long sleeves to protect your arms from the sun - and you can always roll them up if they get in the way. These shirts have two generous breast pockets that can be used for maps, compass, mobile phone, or food items like gum. Like the shorts, these are also in used Grade 1 condition.

With shorts and shirt, you have a total of seven pockets, surely enough to carry most of your immediate requirements. If you need more, then you should consider a rucksack. Otherwise you'll be weighing your clothing down, and that will restrict your freedom of movement.

Quality Shoes For Your Budding Cadet

Sat, 09 Jul 2011 12:28:52 +0000

Being a cadet in the UK is one way of developing teamwork, leadership, and strong citizenship ties for youngsters without having to commit to any long term military ties. In fact, being a cadet has proven to be the making of many youngsters, helping them break out of traits such as shyness and being easily intimidated. While being a cadet is a serious undertaking, it's not necessarily a cheap one.

Military surplus stores have a wide range of products that cadets require including military parade shoes. If you're going to be on parade, then you want to look your best - and that's from top to toes.

The Scimitar Cadet Parade Shoe is ideal for young males involved in Cadets. It is made from black leather uppers, has a PVC sole and is available in sizes ranging from 3 to 12. Most importantly, it is only £25.00, which is a good price for leather shoe.

Cadets are not just for males. In fact, young ladies are entering the cadets in increasing numbers. For those young ladies, there are the Grafters Ladies Cadet Shoes. These too are made from black leather with a PVC sole. The size range is from 3 to 9 and at £29.99, is well priced for a ladies leather shoe.

When buying your shoes, don't forget that shine is highly important in the Cadets. You can add a tin of Web-Tex Black Boot Polish for just £1.65. This is a good quality black shoe polish designed for military use. It will help protect your shoes, giving them a much longer life.

Joining the cadets can be one of the best things your child can do. It helps to develop a wide range of skills in an environment that is demanding and disciplined, yet for many, thoroughly enjoyable. Don't let costs be a barrier. Check out what military surplus stores have available - you'll find you can save a lot of money.

Taking Care Of Personal Hygiene While Roughing It

Fri, 08 Jul 2011 15:05:54 +0000

Every weekend there are tens of thousands who are out camping, even in the midst of winter. Right now we're in the middle of summer and that means any form of physical activity is going to create sweat, and after a couple of days even your own mother is going to reject you. Unless,of course, you have the right personal hygiene gear with you.

One of the best personal hygiene products on the market is the Web-Tex Wash Kit. This kit has everything you need while out camping, even if you have short water supplies. The kit includes:

Toothbrush & toothpaste
Body wash
Shaving cream & razor
Removeable acrylic shaving mirror
Packed in pocket-size zipped pouch compartment.

The pocket sized zip pouch makes it easy to cram into your rucksack, or to even hang it from one of the straps. It will also fit neatly into any thigh pockets if your trousers have them. You can use your own toothbrush, toothpaste, bodywash, razor, and shaving cream once the initial supply runs out.

Staying reasonably clean while camping is important. Roughing it does bring a lot of inconveniences, however, cleanliness doesn't have to be, and shouldn't be, one of them. The Web-Tex Wash Kit is priced at only £9.95 so it's certainly affordable for everyone.

Keeping The Water Out While Fly Fishing In The UK

Thu, 07 Jul 2011 12:19:02 +0000

Fly fishing is a sport that requires a lot of patience, years of learning, and a willingness to get a little wet on occasion. While you can fly fish from the river bank or from a boat, keen fly fishers like to wade out into the water to get a little closer to their prey. The problem is, unless you have expensive fly fishing trousers, you're going to get wet.

While it may be the middle summer right now, the UKs best trout fishing is often found in mountain lakes, and that can get mighty chilly, especially if you're wet. For those are really keen, a good pair of long wellies will keep your lower legs and feet dry, while a pair of Jack Pyke Waterproof Chaps can help keep the rest of your legs reasonably dry.

To get the best results with your chaps, wear them outside your wellies and keep them in place with a tight elastic strap. That will prevent water getting into them keeping you dry, or at least, relatively dry - when wading out to do some fly fishing, there's no such thing as staying completely dry.

Lake fishing is demanding enough, fly fishing adds many more demands. While getting wet comes with the sport of fly fishing, you can at least reduce how wet you become. This leaves you free to enjoy a day's fly fishing. More importantly, it leaves you free to concentrate on casting that fly.

Compasses for Guides, Scouts and Orienteering

Wed, 06 Jul 2011 13:11:56 +0000

There are some group activities that require strong map reading abilities. Orienteering is one sport that is centred on map reading and youngsters involved with Guides or Scouts are taught early on how to read maps. One essential tool for map reading is a good compass, and military surplus stores are the perfect places to find them. From compasses hanging from a handy lanyard to the professional boxed compasses, military surplus stores have them all.

For Guides or Scouts, the ideal compass is the Compass on Lanyard that's available for £2.99 from our Army Surplus store. This is a simple small compass that hangs from a lanyard. If you're looking for something a little more sophisticated then the Web-Tex Military Compass should do the job.

The Web-Tex Military Compass also comes on a lanyard, however, it is a little larger and comes complete with mini rule, ideal for measuring distances. This compass is well suited to orienteering, or for older teens involved with either the Rangers or the Explorer Scouts. The Web-Tex Military Compass comes with complete instructions on how to use it and can be purchased for just £9.99.

Succeeding at any outside adventure that involves map reading relies on a good compass. When looking for compasses, don't forget to look at military surplus stores. The armed forces in the UK are provided with some of the best quality equipment when it comes to items like compasses, so buying any item that is surplus to their requirements is always going to be long lasting and tough - more importantly, you know it's going to do the job.

Staying Hydrated While Trekking

Tue, 05 Jul 2011 13:58:48 +0000

If you are into outdoor activities, then you'll know that one of the most important requirements is water - and sometimes plenty of it. While out trekking, camping, climbing, or caving, the one resource you're not likely to have on tap is water - at least, not good clean drinking water.

Staying hydrated is very important. If you become dehydrated, you can become disorientated and that leads to a whole range of problems. The problem for many people is the question of how to carry enough drinking water to last without overburdening themselves. Often, two litres is enough to last two days if you're careful in your use.

Hydration packs are becoming popular because they allow you to carry your water on your back. If you also have one or two water bottles hanging from your belt, and they can carry up to a litre each as well, then you'll find you'll have plenty of water for most one or two day trips. Of course, if the weather is hot, then you will need that extra water.

For those involved in activities such as mountain climbing and caving, you need to be able to carry water in such a way that it doesn't impede your movement. Having it on your back is less of an impediment than having it hanging from a belt. Think carefully about your water supplies the next time you venture out - you need to carry the right amount if you intend to survive.

Get The Right Padding For UK Rock Climbing

Sun, 03 Jul 2011 12:21:29 +0000

Rock climbing is both a thrilling and dangerous sport. Whether you're climbing the man-made walls at an indoor rock climbing centre, or out in the wilds climbing the best that nature has to offer, you need the right clothing and the right padding. Elbow and knee pads are particularly useful, especially if you're a novice making your first climb on real rock.

Indoor rock climbing centres are focused on safety. You normally have a control rope that will save you should you slip, and soft padded landing areas for your decent. You also have clearly marked hand and foot holds to follow. In nature, you have none of those luxuries. To make matters worse, the rock (and ground) can be very unforgiving should you make a mistake.

Army Surplus 365 have a range of special elbow and knee pads that provide plenty of protection for those vital areas, yet also allow for a full range of movement - an important consideration when rock climbing. Over time, you'll find that your knees are an important part of your climbing, and that you can do away with the knee pads. However, those elbow pads will always be welcome the next time you bang an elbow on the rock your climbing.

Knee and elbow padding is also an important consideration for skateboarding, roller skating, roller blading, and bike riding. By providing those joints with full protection, you'll be able to continue participating in those activities, even after an accident.

The Right Headlamps For Caving In The UK

Sat, 02 Jul 2011 12:29:23 +0000

One sport that doesn't receive a lot of publicity is that of caving. In the UK, there are a lot of caving groups and a lot of caves just waiting to be explored. Caving is different to many other sports - it is done underground and often in dark, cold, and damp conditions.

You need the right equipment if you want to be successful in caving, and that includes lighting. Headlamps are the preferred option as they provide light in the direction that you are moving while keeping your hands free. The Sportsman range of headlamps are available in three sizes - the 2mm, 3mm, and an LED model that is growing in popularity.

LED torches have up to 10,000 hours of bulb life, and can take some severe knocks before becoming damaged. The downside is that these lights don't always have a lot of depth. They are also a lot kinder on batteries compared to traditional headlamps.

The 2cm and 3cm Sportsman Headlamps come with spare bulbs while all three come with spare batteries. They are all weatherproof and are worn using elasticated headbands. While they are ideal for caving, they also have a wider application such as camping. If you have ever tried to put a tent up in the dark, you'll know how welcoming a headlamp can be - you get the light you need where you need it most while having your hands free to get the job done.

Successful Hunting Relies On Quick Access To Cartridges

Fri, 01 Jul 2011 12:55:28 +0000

Hunting is a popular sport across all of the UK and one of the more popular forms of hunting involves shotguns. Rather than firing a single bullet, they fire a cartridge loaded with pellets. Shotguns typically don't have magazines. Each shot has to be manually loaded into the gun's breach. To be successful then, you need to have easy access to those cartridges.

Double-barrelled shotguns do make life easier - you get two chances to hit your quarry. However, you still have to reload after firing that second cartridge. Jack Pyke have a simple Neoprene Stock Cartridge Holder that will hold six cartridges of either 12 or 20 guage. It has a velcro fastener which makes it easy to wrap over your belt or a shoulder strap.

If you need something a little larger, the Jack Pyke Pro-Sport GP Cartridge Bag can hold 70 cartridges and comes with a small four cartridge easy access holder. This makes reloading a lot easier and a lot faster - the cartridge bag can be fixed to your belt or shoulder straps leaving your hands free to do the more important tasks, such as hitting your target.

Hunting is a sport that requires a lot of skill, the ability to camouflage yourself somewhat, and the ability to stay reasonably quiet. Being able to reload quickly and quietly can make your hunting trip a lot more successful - and a lot less frustrating.

Getting The Right Clothing For Paintball Fun

Thu, 30 Jun 2011 13:21:31 +0000

Paintballing is a lot of fun and it is drawing bigger numbers every week. There are hundreds of paintball game zones all over the UK - most provide some protective clothing. All you need is clothing that is comfortable, loose, and easy to wear. Some paintball businesses only provide a small array of protective clothing. If you intend joining them then you're going to need to provide quality protective clothing of your own.

Shoes are one area that paintballers need to think carefully about. You will be wearing them for long hours and traveling across a wide variety of terrain. You may even need to undertake some climbing. With that in mind, comfort, support, and long wearing are important.

Military boots are ideal for paintballing - they are long wearing, designed to be worn for long periods of time, and offer features such as good tread for grip, and water resistance. They also offer flexibility for climbing and running when required.

Good quality socks are also important when wearing military boots. Military socks are designed to breathe, absorb moisture, and to reduce the amount of sweating in the feet. There is nothing worse than, at the end of a day, to take your shoes off only to face the smelliest socks on the planet.

Wear the right combination of socks and boots and your paintballing day will be full of fun. At the end of the day, while your feet won't be smelling like a bed of roses, they won't smell like the local sewer either.

Side-Bags Ideal For UK Hiking Day Trips

Wed, 29 Jun 2011 12:04:20 +0000

One of the growth areas in outdoor activities is the one day hiking or biking trip. Across the UK there are now designated hiking trails all carefully mapped out. Maps also describe how long and how flat the terrain is. A hiking trail may be described as a one day easy trail - this is ideal for beginners and families. If you are going hiking (or biking), then you need to take some essentials with you and Mil-Com Side Pack is ideal for some of these essentials (and at £4.49, a real bargain).

Side-bags are easy to carry. They are not too large so you can't fill them with heavy items. They include shoulder straps, which keep your hands free. They are perfect for carrying items such as sunscreen, insect repellent, a small medical kit, your wallet (or purse), maps, and medications. The closing straps make it easy to open to retrieve anything you need and close down securely to prevent loss.

If you are going on a family hike, these side bags are small enough that everyone can carry one, even youngsters old enough to carry a school bag. The Mil-Com Side Pack is made from durable cotton and is available in black and olive green.

If the side pack in not quite large enough, then the Mil-Com Large Pack (also well priced at £8.94) is similar in design but larger. You can carry extra water and food in this larger pack. You're really only limited to the amount of weight you want to carry. If you are looking to take a lot with you, then you may be better off looking at rucksacks, but for those day trips, a side pack (small or large) is ideal.

Four Essential Camping Products

Tue, 28 Jun 2011 11:31:46 +0000

Camping is a lot of fun for a lot of people. It's so easy to leave home and arrive at your camping spot only to find you have left something behind. Here are four camping products that should form the basis of every camping rucksack. If you have these four products, then you can still enjoy your camping trip.

Steel Tent Pegs - Tent pegs come in handy for a lot of different jobs, not just tents. They can be used to moor a boat, hold a fishing hand reel and hold down a tarpauline that's protecting your gear. A pack of 12 steel tent pegs will sit easily in any rucksack.
Rubber Mallet - If you have tent pegs then you really should have a rubber mallet. While they look big and cumbersome, they are really quite small and will definitely fit into most rucksacks. The peg extractor hook on the base makes the tool worth carrying on its own.
Purlon Rope - With tent pegs and a rubber mallet comes rope, and purlon rope is ideal. It's water resistant, doesn't stretch, shrink, or rot like most ropes, and comes in a variety of sizes. Like the other essentials, a couple of cord of purlon will easily fit into a rucksack.
Shelter - That only leaves a roof over your head. Of course, it would be a strange camping trip if you left your tent at home, but it has been known to happen. An MC MIL-COM Basha Shelter folds up unto a small package and can be stored in a rucksack together with the pegs, mallet, and rope. Even if you haven't left your tent at home, these shelters are quick and easy to set up, perfect if your hiking and camping and need some afternoon shade.

These products all fit neatly into a rucksack with plenty of space left over for other necessities. You may leave something at home on your next camping trip, but at least you'll have four camping products that have a variety of uses.

How Military Surplus Is Graded For Quality

Mon, 27 Jun 2011 12:36:26 +0000

When buying military surplus clothing and equipment, there are three 'grades' that may apply. Generally speaking, we only sell the top grade clothing or equipment - these are products that are brand new and have never been issued yet alone used. Not all products fit this description and they are marked as either Grade 1 or Grade 2.

Grade 1 products are either new but with slight defects (that don't affect the intended use), or items that have been issued and either worn once or not at all. Products marked as Grade 1 are closely inspected to ensure they meet our quality standards and that they are fit for the use to which they were intended.

Grade 2 products are those products that don't fit into that Grade 1 category. These products may be used slightly and may have minor marks, however, like Grade 1 products, Grade 2 products are fit for their intended use - any blemishes are cosmetic in nature and not technical.

A careful check of our website will show that almost all of our products are currently in the new and unused category. The benefit of buying Grade 1 or 2 products is that of price - these products are often well discounted compared to many other sites. When buying military surplus items, keep an eye on the quality of the products being purchased. If they are marked as Grade 1 or Grade 2, you will at least know what those gradings mean.

Military Style T-Shirts Just For Kids

Sun, 26 Jun 2011 11:48:48 +0000

While the grown ups can kit themselves out for camping and hiking in military gear, that doesn't mean the kids have to miss as well. If you have children, you'll know how much they want to look and dress like their parents. If they are going camping, they want to look the part. Wearing a Dora outfit just doesn't cut it when roughing it for the weekend.

There is a wide range of military style t-shirts including the popular Kids English Oak T-Shirt . These are available in a range of sizes - XS (3-4 years), S (5-6 years), M (7-8 years), L (9-10 years) & XL (11-12 years). Made from 100% cotton, they are easy to wear and even easier to wash.

The Kids Camo T-Shirt is another popular t-shirt printed with British Army jungle camouflage pattern. This too is made from 100% cotton and in the same sizes as the English Oak t-shirt. These t-shirts are particularly popular with youngsters that like to pretend they're little soldiers.

T-shirts are ideal for camping holidays. The are lightweight being made from cotton, can be folded into small bundles - a child can easily carry four or five in their rucksack and still have space for any other necessities. Being made from cotton, they are easy to handwash and will dry quickly - a real bonus when you're out camping.

If your little ones want to look like the grown ups when out camping, consider the range of children's military t-shirts that are available.

Finding The Best Footwear For A British Walking Holiday

Sat, 25 Jun 2011 12:35:46 +0000

We may live in a fast world where everyone has a car and where we think nothing of hopping aboard a jet to fly around the world, we still love our walking holidays. Britain has some of the best walking holidays in the world and we are still one of the most active nations when it comes to walking holidays. Walking is easy, you can travel at your own pace, and with the right shoes, is quite painless. Of course, with the wrong shoes, you're not going to get far before walking becomes a painful nightmare.

Hiking boots are perfect for a walking holiday and some of the best are made by Jack Pyke. Their Countryman Boots offer comfort where you need it, good grip, and they're weather proof - ideal given the sudden changes in weather throughout the UK.

When selecting walking boots in the UK, those boots need to be breathable for warm days while also providing warmth for when the weather suddenly turns chilly - and we know how often that happens. The Countryman Boots have a Waterproof breathable Breathatex® lining as well as a 3M Thinsulate insulation layer - these add comfort as well climate control for you feet.

Your feet are your most important asset when considering a walking holiday. You can carry refreshments, spare clothing, and maps on your back. What you can't carry is a spare pair of feet. Look after them and they will look after your holiday, and the best way to look after them is by wearing good quality boots.

Let Jack Pyke Improve Your Hunting Success

Fri, 24 Jun 2011 11:06:27 +0000

There are many different ways to go hunting in the UK. For some, it's the chase with dogs and horses. For others, it's the stealth and the surprise attack. For the latter group, stealth relies on a number of factors, one of which is your ability to camouflage yourself. Jack Pyke are renown for their camouflage clothing and accessories and you can purchase a wide range of these products through our military surplus store.

Camouflaging oneself while hunting can range from the basic straw stuck on a hat to the complete top to toe range of camouflage regalia. Camouflage shirts in English oak, camouflaged balakavas to hide your face (and polished pate), and camouflaged trousers complete the basic kit. You can add to this with a camouflaged ammo bag, camouflaged hide, and even camouflaged gloves, vests, and t-shirts.

Our Jack Pyke range can help to camouflage you to a point where another person would not recognise you in the woods. However, we can't do much for noise, and that's the second important component when hunting. If you're struggling to get to your target, there is one alternative - the Jack Pyke bulk roll english oak hide.

This allows you to sit back and wait for your targets to come to you. These are especially useful for bird watcher/hunters, and for specimen anglers who target their quarry really close in to the bank.

Need camouflage on your next hunting trip? If so, check out our range of Jack Pyke camouflage equipment and clothing.

Walk The Hadrian's Wall Path In Comfort

Thu, 23 Jun 2011 14:15:36 +0000

One of the most famous landmarks in the UK is the Hadrian's Wall. For a real touch of the past, you can hike and camp along the 84-mile Hadrian's Wall Path. This takes you across the border country where you can experience some of the most breathaking scenery around. The walk itself can be tough since the entire length is exposed to the elements. You can do it in style, walking for several hours a day and stopping in pubs at night, or you can tough it out by rambling the path and camping out at night.

Of course, to achieve this with some degree of comfort, you need the right equipment. This is where a good military surplus store can come to the rescue. You can fully kit yourself out with the right equipment - equipment designed to be carried on long marches, so it's not going to weight you down or make life uncomfortable.

Depending on your needs, you can find tents, sleeping bags, and sleeping mats, all designed to fit into or across a rucksack - you can find a full range of rucksacks as well. When it comes to clothing, they can fit you out from head to toe. Shoes, socks, trousers, and even underwear suited to camping and hiking.

When it comes to food and water, you can kit yourself out with water carriers, portable cookers, lighweight pans, and the various utensils required while out camping. I've only touched the surface here since there are hundreds of items you could take on a camping hike. What is important is to determine your needs. Consider that fact that you are going to be carrying most of what you take on your back, then find the most lightweight equipment - and that means finding a good military surplus store.

The Hadrian's Wall Path is easy to walk if you're kitted out right. Talk to us and we'll help you put together the best camping and hiking kit for your needs.

The Rock Climbing Protection You Need

Wed, 22 Jun 2011 11:16:45 +0000

If you enjoy rock climbing, abseling, or the more adventurous mountain climbing, then you'll know all about safety and the need for protective clothing. At the same time, you don't want to be restricted in your movements, especially when your life may depend on being very nimble. Two areas that do require protection are your knees and elbows - damage either of them and you could be in big trouble.

Army Surplus supplies include knee and elbow pads that are well suited to outdoor activities. More importantly, they are designed to allow for a free range of movement rather than being restrictive and uncomfortable.

Viper Neoprene Knee Pads are perfectly designed for those outdoor activities. They are not overly padded using a soft padding rather than a hard shell like protective cover. Being reinforced, they are designed for rugged outdoor use and the one-size-fits-all approach means you won't be buying too big or too small.

The Viper Neoprene Elbow Pads are of similar makeup although obviously designed for the elbows instead of knees. Your elbows are particularly important when climbing as they are used a lot to help you hold your weight.

When next you venture out for a spot of rock climbing, let a Viper protect your knees and elbows - one solid knock and you'll be glad you did.

Ensuring A Good Night's Rest When Camping

Tue, 21 Jun 2011 13:24:32 +0000

What sort of camping do you enjoy? For some, it's a relaxed-feet up-throw-a-line-in-the-water type adventure while for others it's hard work, trekking from one camping site to the next. For the latter, being able to relax and get a good night's rest is very important. The last thing you need is to wake up in the morning feeling stiff and sore and hardly able to go on - or go back.

Sleeping bags are an important addition to any camping kit and there are a wide range from which to chose. Some people also include an air mattress in their kit, however, they can be heavy to carry and they do require inflation and deflation - all time-consuming activities.

Sleep roll mats are ideal although you won't get the same level of comfort as an air mattress. You will get convenience as they roll up easily and can be carried on top of your rucksack. Sleep roll mats have a number of benefits. First, they provide protection from any rocks or lumps in the ground. They also provide protection from cold rising from the ground in winter. Being made from solid rubber, they do have just enough give to make for a comfortable night's sleep.

If you put a sleep roll mat together with a decent sleeping bag, then you'll have the complete camping sleep package. You will wake up reasonably well rested and ready to take on the next leg of your adventure. Better still, the two can be rolled up and put away in minutes so there's no frustrating time wastage. Need a good night's sleep when camping? Take the right gear to begin with.

Desert Boots - Comfort At An Affordable Price

Mon, 20 Jun 2011 13:16:31 +0000

Hiking boots don't have to cost the earth. However, hiking boots do need to be a good fit, provide good support for the feet and ankles, and be comfortable for the rigours that come with hiking. Mil-Com Desert Boots offer all of that plus more.

When it comes to quality, the Mil-Com brand is all you need to know. Their footwear are all well made from quality materials and are designed to be worn all day - every day. Their desert boot is made from sand-coloured cow suede, has a cambrella lining, and a padded cow suede collar for extra comfort.

These boots are excellent for long hikes over rough terrain. The sole provides good grip and is made from oil-resistant rubber. Bronze eyelets add strength when lacing up. While these boots offer quality and comfort, they are available at a price that everyone can afford - less than £35.00.

If you enjoy hiking, then you know how hard that activity can be on your feet. You need footwear that is not going to cause blisters or make your feet sweat, especially if you are going to be wearing them for hours at a time. Military boots are designed to look after a soldier's feet while providing flexibility and easy movement. Mil-Com are a leading brand of military boots and their desert boot is perfect for any outdoor activity.

Military Trousers, Comfortable And Practical

Sun, 19 Jun 2011 12:09:49 +0000

Military trousers have been designed with a number of purposes. While the military is not necessarily renown for comfort, their trousers are well designed and easy to wear. Military trousers come in a number of designs ranging from straight black through to camoflage patterns for jungle or desert.

One of the more popular products are the British lightweight trousers. Being lightweight poly cotton, they are suitable for use from mid spring through summer and into autumn. They come with four well-placed pockets, especially the thigh pocket which is ideal for maps.

The heavyweight black trousers are ideal for the cooler months being made from 100% cotton. You can comfortably wear long winter underwear under them when the days are cold. Where the lightweight trousers have four pockets, the heavyweight have six including that handy thigh pocket for maps.

All military trousers come with belt tabs and either waist or side adjusters. Belt tabs are not just handy for keeping a belt in place, they can also be used to hang lightweight pouches, especially quick release medical kits.

Camouflage trousers come in both the British and U.S. designs. Those made from 100% cotton are pre-shrunk so you can purchase exact fits.

6 PLCE Pouches For Those Essential Extras

Sat, 18 Jun 2011 12:37:06 +0000

Pouches are not luxury accessories when it comes to hiking or camping through some of the UKs back country. In fact, some of these pouches are essential. That makes sense since they are designed to carry items that could be essential to your survival. Here are six PLCE pouches that you should consider taking with you the next time you go hiking or camping.

PLCE Desert Utility Pouch - Your utility pouch can be used to carry any of those essential extras such as medications
PLCE Desert Water Bottle Carrier Pouch - Features a quick release fastener for when you need a quick drink
PLCE Desert Medical Pouch - A medical kit is an essential part of any of any outdoor activity
PLCE Desert Small Utility Pouch - A smaller version of the utility pouch
PLCE Desert Knife Torch Pouch - Has a velcro fastener for easy access to your knife or torch
PLCE Desert SA80mm Ammunition Pouch - While designed for ammunition, this pouch can be used as an extended utility pouch

Pouches fit easily to the back or sides of rucksacks, shoulder straps, or belts are feature tabs designed for quick release or easy access. While the military have specific uses for these pouches, your use is only constrained by your imagination.

Quality British Military Surplus Products

Fri, 17 Jun 2011 13:39:47 +0000

Mil-Com have been supplying a wide range of products to the British military for many years now. They have developed a reputation for providing quality products, the type of products our military personnel can rely on when put to the ultimate test. You don't have to be a member of the military to access these products. Army Surplus 365 carry a wide range of Mil-Com products in categories such as clothing, footwear, camping, backpacks, and equipment.

Our range of Mil-Com patrol boots are popular because of the quality of the materials that go into their manufacturing. There are not too many boots that can boast a padded cow suade collar or oil resistant rubber soles.

The Airjet range of rucksacks are also popular. They are not as large as some of the traditional rucksacks, but then these rucksacks are designed for fast movement, not long slow treks. They make great hiking rucksacks for those not intending to camp out.

While boots and rucksacks are popular, Mil-Com also supply compasses, medical kits, military socks, and portable cooker refills just to name a few. When looking for quality products at a military surplus store, look for any carrying the Mil-Com logo. At Army Surplus 365. We take pride in the range of quality products we carry, especially those that carry the Mil-Com logo.

What To Look For In An Army Surplus Rucksack

Thu, 16 Jun 2011 11:05:23 +0000

Rucksacks are a must for anyone who intends on going camping, more so if you need to hike to get to your camping spot. Rucksacks sit on the back and are used to carry almost all of the equipment, food, and water required while camping so they need to be well designed. Military rucksacks have been designed specifically for the rigours of war providing a British soldier with everything they need whilst not impeding their progress.

The moment you look at a menu full of rucksacks you're going to wonder which model is right for you. There are a number of issues you need to consider before making a selection - some of these issues include your own physical size and ability to carry weight. Here is a good example of a large rucksack. It can carry 120 litres and has detachable side and back pouches. If you are not physically fit and strong, you will struggle to carry one of these on your back.

You could opt for a 3/4-size backpack such as this Web-Tex PLCE System - 3/4 Size backpack. This is rated at 90 litres and while it doesn't hold as much as the full size backpack, it could be easier to carry. Although 3/4 sized, it still comes with the detachable side and back pouches.

Other areas to look at when buying a backpack is whether or not there is padding in the shoulder straps, and whether or not they are going to be comfortable. You should also ensure your backpack isn't going to impede your arms in any way. Army surplus backpacks are designed to provide soldiers with maximum freedom - a real requirement when involved in any skirmishes. You can also rely on army surplus equipment to be hard wearing and long lasting.

Zippo Lighters - An Army Friend For Life

Wed, 15 Jun 2011 10:17:34 +0000

Zippo lighters have a long tradition with British military personnel. There are several accounts of these lighters saving people's lifes, having deflected enemy bullets while sitting in their breast pockets. Being made of good quality metal, it's not hard to believe some of these stories either.

These lighters are still popular today, both as collectors items and as useful tools for the military, campers, and hikers. Being refillable, they are easy to use yet virtually wind resistant. Creating a campfire is certainly made easier through the use of a Zippo lighter.

Today, you can buy Zippo lighters in a number of different finishes. They are all the same basic rectangular shape with the same operating mechanisms. The differences are the logos engraved onto the front. Current logos include the British Army, the Royal Marines, the Royal Navy, and the RAF to name a few.

The Zippo lighter was invented in 1932 and quickly became popular, especially amongst the millitary. There are lighters from the 1940's that are still in working condition today, a testimony to the quality of their makers. That quality remains today, in fact, little has changed from those original Zippos, but then, the principle is simple - a container for the lighter fluid, a piece of flint, and a wick - put them all together and you have the famous Zippo lighters, perfect for any outdoor activity requiring a camp fire.

Never Leave Home Without A Good First Aid Kit

Tue, 14 Jun 2011 11:20:18 +0000

If you are going camping or hiking, then there is a good chance you are going to be miles from any sort of help, particularly medical help. While a good first aid kit can only help to stabilise any serious injuries, they are always handy for those minor scratches, bruises, and insect bites. First aid kits come in a variety of sizes, and while they contain a basic set of first aid supplies, you can supplement them with first aid items of your own - especially medications you need to take on a regular basis.

Never under estimate the value of stabilising an injury until professional help is found. First aid kits generally contain triangular bandages, handy for imobilising an injured arm. Quality kits also contain bandages that can be used to stem major bleeds - they also help to keep the wounds clean.

First aid kits are one of those items that you never seem to need until you don't have one. Yet you can purchase a small travellers first aid kit for only £9.99 while a Web-Tex Large First Aid Kit sells for only £29.95. That's really a small price to pay for a little peace of mind.

When considering a first aid kit for camping or hiking (or any other outdoor event), select one that is easy to carry, easy to find, yet not too bulky. Army surplus first aid kits generally have belt loops making them easy to carry and easy to access - Many of them are either water proof or water resistant as well. Never leave home without a good first aid kit - you just never know when you'll need one.

Never Get Lost While Hiking

Mon, 13 Jun 2011 11:10:04 +0000

Hiking, climbing, mountaineering - they're all popular year-round activities. Unfortunately, they are also activities that lead to a loss of life, often due to a simple wrong turn. Getting lost while hiking should be a problem of the past given the modern technology that is available in the form of GPS units.

Take the Garmin Foretrex 301 GPS unit. It is lightweight and is worn on the wrist like a watch. This leaves the hands free, handy when climbing or skiing, yet is easy to read. What makes a unit like this a useful companion is its backtracking feature. Called TracBack, you can use it to backtrack your way either to your starting point, or up to 500 way-points that you can set and store.

What is particularly useful for regular adventurers is the ability to hook the unit up to their computer (via USB) and to then upload and store their favourite trip. The next time they venture out, they can download that trip to follow the same path.

GPS is everywhere these days. In our mobile phones, in our cars, and now in lightweight devices that we can take on our adventures. Being lightweight, they are unobtrusive and waterproof, and they have the potential to save lives. If you are heading out to an area that you've never visited before, then you may find a Garmin outdoor GPS to be the perfect companion. You won't get lost, and your family can relax with the knowledge your taking the latest technology with you.

Containers For Carrying Liquids

Sun, 12 Jun 2011 11:27:35 +0000

Hydration is very important. And, of course, you'll need containers for carrying liquids that hydrate your body and keep you energized for your missions. But not all liquids hydrate, though that doesn't mean you won't drink them. You'll need carrying containers for them too.

Surplus liquid carrying containers are available online and you can order them right now. Get them at the right price and move on.

Solar Camp Shower - Not all liquids are for drinking and hydration. When in the field or on your tactical mission, you'll need to take a shower. This 5-gallon shower bag will do the trick.
Camouflage waist bag and water bottle - Perfect for those long hunting trips where you'll do a lot of walking.
Web-Tex 58Patt water bottle and cup - Made from PVC to last. 58 pattern.
Web-Tex Aquatex Hydration Pack - You wear this one on your back. It contains shoulder straps, a sternum strap, and sits comfortably upon your shoulders with a tube that runs from the water pack to your mouth so you can drink and stay hydrated hands free.
Jack Pyke Mug - British soldiers are notorious for drinking coffee and tea. This hunters green stainless steel drinking cup will keep your beverage hot or cold.
Jack Pyke stainless steel flask - Sometimes a mug just isn't enough. Store your hot or cold beverage in a stainless steel flask. Available in 330 ml or 480 ml hunters green.
Jack Pyke aluminum drink bottle - Made of aluminum and it holds 500 ml of any liquid. Color: Hunters green. Features a screw top with attached carabiner. This is the perfect container for carrying a lot of water or your favorite beverage while in garrison or on a tactical mission.

Be sure you have the right liquid container for every mission. Get it at surplus.

What Are Flyers Goggles Good For?

Sat, 11 Jun 2011 12:29:52 +0000

What can you do with flyers goggles? Are they just for flyers or can you use them for other purposes? Here are 10 ways to use flyers goggles (even if you aren't an aviator).

Wear them while riding your motorcycle or non-motorized bike. You're traveling at high speeds. All kinds of things can fly into your eyes. Protect them with flyers goggles.
Ever go fishing and find yourself in a swarm of pestering bugs? Those bugs can sometimes fly right into your eye balls. But not when you are wearing flyers goggles.
Skydivers also wear goggles. You're falling and falling fast. Be sure to wear your goggles. Winds can whip your eyes and make it difficult to see the ground.
Skiiers need goggles too. Don't have your ski goggles? Wear flyers goggles instead.
Wear them on your UK soldiers tactical mission. Whether in the jungle or the desert, you need to keep your eyes protected from the elements. The desert is often characterized by high winds and flying dust. You don't want to get caught up in a dust storm without goggles.
Hunters need goggles too. Wear them to keep carbon emissions from burning your eyes or to keep weather elements away from your vision tools.
Play tennis? Ever get hit by a tennis ball in the eye? You can protect your eyes with flyers goggles.
Baseball players can also wear goggles. You'd hate to have dust fly up into your eyes as you are batting. A strike out due to lessened vision could cost you the game.
Wear your flyers goggles while you play volleyball - especially beach volleyball.
Wear your flyers goggles while you work in your toolshed. While you'd want to wear special protective goggles if you are performing certain tasks such as welding, you could wear your flyers goggles to keep sawdust out of your eyes when using your chainsaw.

Flyers goggles come in handy for all kinds of tasks. You should have at least one pair around for when you need them.

What Exactly Are Footwear Accessories?

Fri, 10 Jun 2011 16:21:41 +0000

Every UK soldier, hunter, and outdoor sportsman will at some point find him or herself in a situation where simple footwear accessories will prove to be a necessity. You want to have your footwear accessories on hand when that happens.

What exactly is meant by "accessories?" In reality, it means anything that isn't defined by shoes, boots, or socks. here is a short list of items that could be on your footwear accessories list:

Boot laces
Boot polish
Boot bag
Insoles
Boot care kits

None of these items are particularly expensive, yet they will be used. Most likely, they'll be used over and over again. And because they are inexpensive, you'd do yourself well to stock up on them. That way, you'll them available when you need them - no matter when you need them.

The only item on this list you should order only of, and that's only if you have just one pair of boots, is the boot bag. You should order one boot bag per pair of boots, actually. There's really no better way to ensure that your military or hunting boots are taken good care of.

Besides a boot bag, you'll want to have several pair of boot laces on hand in case yours break or become so weather worn that they need replacing. In fact, you should keep your extra pair of boot laces in your boot bag. And you'll also want several cans of boot polish. You'd hate to be a day before your inspection and need to polish your boots when you discover that you're out of polish. And those insoles, they're the perfect accessory for keeping the feet comfortable on long ruck marches.

It isn't much, and they really small things, but those footwear accessories could really be the difference between staying comfortable and having your feet take on a bad case of murderer's revenge.

Surplus Scarves

Thu, 09 Jun 2011 16:35:37 +0000

When it comes to protecting the neck and shoulders, even for military personnel, hunters, and wild outdoorsmen, nothing does it better than a scarf. Why not get your scarves at surplus prices?

Scarves are easily forgotten. You're busy. You're trying to get together all of your essential gear and move on out into the field. If you are UK soldier, that essential gear could include your weapons and weapon cleaning equipment, webbing, essential military clothing like boots and uniforms, knives and other essential tools, etc. If you are a hunter, then you are likely thinking about guns and ammo, camouflage clothing, knives, traps, and other hunting tools. But not scarves.

Here's a tip: Put your scarves with your your other equipment. If you keep all of your equipment together, then you won't have to worry about forgetting anything.

Here are three surplus scarves that you can add to your military or hunting gear field bag:

Web-Tex Scrim Net Scarf - Available in black, green, or camo. From one of the leaders in military brand names.
Web-Tex Shemagh - 43" X 46", these shemaghs are tassled, made of cotton, and available in red/white, black/white, green/black, and sand/black.
Jack Pyke Fleece Scarf - Nothing feels better around the neck than fleece. Available in black, green, or camo.

Get your scarves at discount surplus prices, then store them in a safe place where you'll never forget them.

UK Surplus Webbing

Wed, 08 Jun 2011 17:19:42 +0000

Soldiers and hunters all need webbing. You can't get away from it. Where else can you but to an Army Surplus store and get your necessity webbing items at a discount?

Just check out all the best UK Army webbing at ArmySurplus365:

Viper Key Keeper - From one of the best brand names in Web gear, it clips to your belt.
Web-Tex Concealment Vest - This lightweight mesh vest with detachable hood. One size fits all.
SA80 Rifle Sling - Adjustable and padded.
Viper Special Ops Vest - Stacked with all the right add-ons, adjustable, and padded. Great vest.
Desert Tactical Load Carrying Vest - For all your desert missions.
PLCE Desert Utility Pouch - Grade 1. Perfect for carrying your necessary cargo.
PLCE DPM Water Bottle Carrier Pouch - Where else are you going to put it?
PLCE Desert Water Bottle Carrier Pouch - You need a water bottle carrier, especially in the desert.
PLCE Desert Medical Pouch - Every soldier needs the basic first aid medical pouch.

There is much more UK webbing at ArmySurplus365. Get all your tactical supplies at a discount and add the right carrying puches to your UK tactical soldier vests.

Dog Tags And Epaulettes

Wed, 08 Jun 2011 16:04:24 +0000

Every UK soldier has an identity, and that identity is cataloged. You wear it around your neck, on your chest, and on your shoulders. Rank, name, religion, serial number. Keep it close and you'll always protect it.

ArmySurplus365 has a good collection of dog tags and epaulettes for all types of military personnel. In the epaulette department, here's what to offer:

Lance Corporal rank slides
Lance Corporal rank slides for desert uniform
Sergeant Epaulette rank slides
Viper security epaulettes
Staff Sergeant epaulettes
Warrant Officer rank slides
And officer epaulette rank slides

This is just to name a few. There are plenty more rank slides and epaulettes to choose from and they're all at discounted surplus prices.

Now for the dog tags. Black, silver, and gold are available - all at Army surplus prices. And, of course, we also carry dog tag silencers so you can keep your tactical missions noise free.

What Color Maglite Is Right For You?

Mon, 06 Jun 2011 16:45:21 +0000

When it comes to maglites, you wouldn't think there'd be so many varieties to choose from. You'd be surprised, however. One of the most important choices you'll make is what color of maglite you buy. ArmySurplus365 has as many as 11 different maglite colors.

Black - One of the more popular color choices because black is the color of night, when you'll most likely be using your maglite. And, of course, black goes with everything.
Blue - For the more discriminating hunter who wants to flash his light in style.
Green - Green is a tactical color, which makes the green maglite popular among UK soldiers.
Grey - Grey may seem boring, but this maglite gets the job done.
Lime - The lime maglite really shines - in more ways than one.
Midnight blue - Unlike the lighter shade of blue, this dark hue blends in when other colors won't.
Pink - There's no reason the lady hunter should settle for the dull manliness of black, green, or grey. You can be an effective outdoor sportsperson and still be a lady. And it's a hot pink too.
Purple - Another ladylike color. Or, if you prefer, the color of royalty. Purple maglites are nothing to shake a stick at.
Red - Red is one of those ubiquitous colors. If you like red, then the red maglite is sure to light your candle.
Silver - It looks like a silver bullet, but the silver maglite is a brandishing metallic light source that you'll be proud to carry anywhere.
Bronze - Bronze is beautiful. The bronze maglite is tactical, efficient, and useful.

Don't leave home without a maglite - of any color. Whether your mission is a tactical one or an adventurous one, a maglite is one of those essential tools, so choose your color and let the maglite shine!

3 Equipment Holders You'll Love

Sun, 05 Jun 2011 12:55:48 +0000

Equipment holders are such a basic item they are easy to forget. Before you know it you've left home base without them and you've got to shove your most prized equipment down in a cubby hole in your rucksack or a cargo pocket somewhere. One is a lot less organized and the other very uncomfortable. Instead, try one of these special equipment holders.

Jack Pyke Neoprene Stock Cartridge Holder - Neoprene is a type of synthetic rubber that is durable, weather-resistant, lightweight, and easy to carry. That's why it is excellent material for carrying your equipment. This cartridge holder will carry 6 12- or 20-gauge cartridges and includes a fold over flap with velcro for easy opening and cartridge extraction. It is available in English Oak camo.
Jack Pyke Neoprene Stock Bullet Holder - Another standard issue stock item from Jack Pyke, one of the UK military's chief suppliers. This bullet holder is 17cm long and holds up to seven bullets rounds. It is available in English Oak camo and it also features the velcro fold over flap for easy extraction.
Web-Tex A6 Notebook Holder - How many times have you been in the field or on an important mission and went to find your notepad and it wasn't there? Don't experience that any more with this handy notebook holder. Strap it to your rucksack or webbing and pull it out when you need it. Made from 1000 denier waterproof Cordura. Also includes a full zip compartment for your pens.

A good British soldier ensures that he carries all the right equipment and that includes equipment holders that are durable and accessible.

The Necessity Of Tentage

Sat, 04 Jun 2011 13:30:57 +0000

One item that is necessary for outdoorsmen of all types - campers, hunters, soldiers, and adventurers - is tentage. You don't want to leave home without it.

Of course, there are all sorts of tents, but they all provide the same necessary function - shelter.

If you are an entrenched urban dweller, then you might wonder just what sort of creature would give up the comforts of home to head off into the woods for a weekend (or longer) and then insist on shelter. Well, we humans kind of thrive on those basic needs, even when we're willing to sacrifice on the luxuries. Shelter is a basic need. Running water is a luxury.

Philosophizing aside, the true outdoorsman takes his time to find the right tentage. Do you need a small pup tent built for two or a large family-sized hotel suite (yes, they do make the three-room cottages, pardon my slight exaggeration on calling them hotel suites)? The tent you settle on, of course, should depend on your mission and the duration of the time that you'll need it.

One tent that ArmySurplus365 recommends, and that you can get at a very good buy, is the Highlander Rockwall 2-Man Pop-Up Tent. This is the perfect tent for you and your buddy when you go on that overnight fishing trip.

The Highlander Rockwall is an olive green with the groundsheet sewed in. The hydrostatic head is 1500mm and the material, polyester. Maximum head height stretches to 115cm and it does feature taped seams. At 2.8kg, it is lightweight enough to carry on any trip, even if you are hiking long trails and up mountains. One of the nice things about this tent is that the Highlander Rockwall 2-Man Pop-Up Tent is a quick-pitch tent that you can set up in minutes, leaving you time to do the really important things that you are going camping for in the first place.

3 Specialised Military Hats

Fri, 03 Jun 2011 15:23:51 +0000

If you are in the British Navy, army, or a UK military unit and you're looking for a special type of hat that signifies your unit or the special mission to which you've been assigned, where do you go? I suggest you check ArmySurplus365 first.

The selection of military hats you'll find at ArmySurplus365 is unmatched. As an example, here are three specialised military hats that you can find on our online shopping store:

RAF Peaked Cap - Grade 1 collectors item. This current issue hat is the official head gear of the oldest indpendent air force in the world, the United Kingdom Royal Air Force. Don't just sit at home dreaming about the RAF. Order this specialised military hat today. Add it to your collection.
Navy Ratings White Cap - Grade 1. This top condition Royal Navy issue is at once recognizable. It features a white top and a blue rim, the official white cap of the Royal Navy. This hat does not come with a cap tally.
Black Beret - In some parts of the world, the beret a commonplace hat, not that special. In other parts, it signifies something great. The black beret features leather trim and is available in sizes 58-61. Order yours today and add it to your collection of military hats.

If you like these specialised military hats, you'll love ArmySurplus365's baseball caps. Get your special military hats on discount and delivered quickly.

Don't Underestimate A Good Pair Of Socks

Thu, 02 Jun 2011 15:08:12 +0000

Anyone who's ever been on a ruck march or has spent an extended period of time in the field knows the importance of taking care of the feet. And a part of taking care of the feet is wearing a good pair of socks.

Socks are for more than just comfort. They are also a health and welfare item. Wear a bad pair of socks on a ruck march or in bad weather while on an outdoor mission and you'll see just what I mean. A worn pair of socks can leave your feet dry, lead to blisters, or grind your feet down to puddy. Or at least, they'll feel like puddy.

You want your socks to fit the weather. No need to wear thick wool socks in garrison in the summer. And you don't want to wear your thin nylons on a bivouac, especially in the winter. Take good care of your socks, wear the right kind of socks for the mission, and keep your feet powdered and well cared for, and your socks will be good to you. And so will your feet.

That said, here are five pairs of socks that we at ArmySurplus365 recommend for Briths soldiers and hunters going on their next rugged adventure:

Jack Pyke Wellington Boot Socks
Mil-Com Cadet Socks
Norwegian Socks
Jack Pyke Hunting Socks
Viper Coolmax Socks

You can find these socks and more at the ArmySurplus365 store. Show your feet that you care and pick the right pair of socks.

Get The Right Underwear

Wed, 01 Jun 2011 15:36:03 +0000

There are few things so important as having the right underwear when you go out into the field. Whether you are going on a training mission or the real thing, if you leave home without the right underwear, then you will be uncomfortable the entire time. It will kill your mission.

In the summer, the best underwear are boxers. You will not get heat rash as often with boxers as you will with those tightly hugging briefs.

In the winter, you want thermal underwear.

The micro-climate 100% polyester thermal underwear set is perfect for any mission in the winter months. Whether you are a hunter going on an extended hunting mission or you are a British soldier seeking out a terrorist cell, thermal underwear can keep you warm in the most winter months. While it doesn't get cold enough the Middle East desert, even in winter, to require thermals most of the time, it does get that cold in the arctic, and whose to say that all your missions will be in the Middle East?

Just remember what your mother told you back in school - wear your underwear. You never know when you'll need them.

12 Jack Pyke Military Jackets

Tue, 31 May 2011 17:58:56 +0000

When it comes to military jackets, you have a lot of options in tems of name brand, comfort, and durability. And one of my favorite brands is Jack Pyke.

ArmySurplus365 has some of the best military equipment in the world for discriminating British soldiers and military personnel. You'd be proud of our Jack Pyke clothing. I found 12 distinct Jack Pyke military jackets, and all of them affordable and available at ArmySurplus365.

Try these jackets on for size:

There's the Jack Pyke fleece jacket - color green
We've written about the Jack Pyke 3-in-1 Hunters Jacket before
Kids Jack Pyke waterproof jacket
Jack Pyke hunter jacket - olive green
Jack Pyke hunter jacket - English oak
Jack Pyke hunter jacket - English woodland
Jack Pyke field smock
Jack Pyke English oak fleece
Jack Pyke hunter's gilet - English oak
Jack Pyke hunter's gilet - hunters green
Jack Pyke English woodland fleece
Jack Pyke English oak mesh vest

All of these jackets come a variety of sizes and at different price pionts. There is no reason why you should not pick your favorite military or hunters jacket from this lineup. Choose comfort and choose style. Jack Pyke has gone the extra mile.

British Desert Tactical Load Carrying Vest

Tue, 31 May 2011 14:24:26 +0000

Every British soldier should have the proper load carrying equipment. Whether your next tactical mission in the desert or the jungle, you don't want to leave home base without the right equipment, especially your load carrying equipment.

This item is a genuine British military issue item. Not a fake. Not a counterfeit. It's the real deal.

What I like about this load carrying vest is that you can as many pouches as you need. Of course, if you wait it down too much, you won't be able to walk - but you have enough room to carry all the equipment you'll need.

The vest is colored desert camo, perfect for the missions you'll undertake in today's terrorist-laden battlefield. Going to Iraq? Afghanistan? Syria? Lybia? Anywhere in the Middle East? Then this desert tactical load carrying vest is essential equipment for your mission. It's flexible, lightweight, and tactical in every sense of the word.

This Briitish issue vest is Grade 1, top of the line. It is the same vest worn by British soldiers every day in Afghanistan. It includes three separate panels, two large zipped dump pockets and smaller dipped document pockets. There is also a small mesh pocket as well as two pistol magazine pouches with velcro closures.

The vest is fully adjustable to fit all sizes. It even fits over body armor. Get your own British Desert Tactical Load Carrying Vest today.

Flags, Tags, And Camouflage

Sun, 29 May 2011 15:09:49 +0000

Paintball has become a very popular sport in recent years. From the Outback to the UK and even across the seas in the USA, paintballers convene to shoot, kill, and take each other's flags. Which brings me to three of my favorite military topics: flags, tags (as in dog), and camouflage.

Of course, you don't have to be a paintball fan to enjoy or make good use of these three military accessories. If you are a British soldier, you'll find them useful. Or you might just like collecting such things. Either way, you can find all of these accessories, and more, at ArmySurplus365.

Flags

From the Irish flag to the Welsh Dragon flag, ArmySurplus365 has a great selection of flags for you to choose from. Whether you need a guidon for your unit or you just like collecting the best flags in the UK, you can get them at ArmySurplus365. Here is a selection from our list of flags.

Irish flag
Skull and Crossbones flag
St. George flag
Union flag
Welsh Dragon flag

Dog Tags

We've got black, silver, and gold dog tags, plus we even carry dog tag silencers. Those are the perfect accessories for tactical soldiers, paintballers, and other military enthusiasts who want to move about freely and stealthily while sneaking up on the enemy.

Camouflage

No mission can be successful without the right tools. Camouflage is an essential ingredient to your unit's tactical success, whether on the battlefield or the paintball field. ArmySurplus365 carries Mil-Com camo cream, camouflage face paint, camo tape, nets, camouflage rifle carriers, scope covers, knife pouches, and Jack Pyke pellet pouches. We've got the best military camouflage on the Internet - or in the UK. Hunters, paintballers, military personnel, and enthusiasts can all be proud to stock their accessory cabinets with these supplies.

5 Essential Pieces Of Outdoor Equipment

Sat, 28 May 2011 14:58:21 +0000

Soldiers and hunters have one thing in common: They need the best outdoor equipment to survive. In fact, the true test of an outdoorsman is his taste in equipment. What does of equipment does he use? What brands are his favorite? And how does he use what he has?

Here are 5 essential pieces of outdoor equipment that every soldier, hunter, and outdoorsmen should have no matter what the mission:

Maglite -No mission should be undertaken without the proper lighting. Even in situations where you must practice noise and light discipline, there are ways to make use of a good light source. ArmySurplus365 in the UK has a wide selection of Maglite options for you to choose from.
Knife -Have you ever reached into your pocket to pull out a knife and found it empty? That's not a good feeling. There are all kinds of situations in the wild that require a good knife, either as a tool or as a weapon. A true survivalist takes his knife with him everywhere he goes.
First Aid Kit -Your entire team depends on you for safety. Don't risk anyone's life by forgetting to take a first aid kit. It's perhaps the most essential piece of equipment you'll ever have.
Binoculars - There are just some things you can't see with the naked eye. And there are other things that you'll want to get a better view of. Don't undertake any scouting mission without a pair of binoculars.
Outdoor GPS - In the past, you wouldn't have gone on any mission without a compass. In fact, I'd say you still need a compass for any outdoor mission. If anything, you need one as a back up plan. But today, a GPS can help you stay on track. However, they do have their weaknesses so keep that compass handy.

When you go on your next outdoor survivalist mission, be sure to take the right equipment with you.

Web-Tex PLCE System - 3/4 Size

Fri, 27 May 2011 14:56:11 +0000

The rugged life requires a durable rucksack for carrying those necessities of the field. Whether you are British soldier heading out on a new mission or a hunter going away for a weekend game excursion, the Web-Tex PLCE System can carry everything you need and more.

We're talking about a 3/4 size rucksack here. And for less than £100, it's a grand piece of equipment.

Available in DPM or green, the Web-Tex PLCE System offers a 1000D Cordura package that is a scaled down version of the full PLCE system. That means it is a 90-litre rucksack with all the same specifications of the large PLCE. In other words, it's enough of a carrying sack for the most rugged soldier or hunter when you are not headed out for a super long mission.

Here's what you get: Two zipped lid pockets, perfect for smaller survival items that you can't leave home (or personal hygiene items that you want to be able to access quickly); a small front pouch; side compression straps because you can't be too secure; padded shoulder and waist belt to make your rucksack marches more comfortable; and removable internal aluminum frame. The frame is sturdy yet light and easy to clean to being able to remove it is a necessity.

As is, the Web-Tex PLCE System 3/4 Size rucksack is more than adequate, but to the sweeten the pot, Web-Tex made the two pouches detachable and when you couple them with the detachable yoke, you'll have a 20-litre day sack. This is perfect for the single day scouting missions or day hikes when you are expected to return to camp before nightfall.

The Web-Tex PLCE System is a fine rucksack when you need a man's rugged carrier but don't need the all-out version.

Adapting to the Heat using Camping Equipment

Thu, 26 May 2011 23:59:39 +0000

The first thing that you need to keep in mind is that you need to stay hydrated. Depending on where you are, it is best to purchase your water in a sealed water bottle instead of from the tap. If you have water tablets in your camping equipment at home, you could consider bringing them with you if you are going to be somewhere that you cannot buy bottled water.

Take a hint from the locals and stay indoors in the middle of the afternoon. You will find in many warm cultures that everything shuts down in the afternoon when the sun is at its highest and then reopens when the sun goes down. Chances are you will not find much to do in the afternoon in regards to sightseeing anyways so you may as well use this time to rest. You can then spend more time out in the evening checking things out. Be aware that these cultures tend to eat their last meal of the day a bit later due to this.

If you do have to go out when it is really hot outside then you will want to move slowly and not rush to get anywhere. This will help you from getting overheated and prevent you from getting sunstroke and ruining your holiday. Nothing ruins a holiday more than having to spend it indoors and in bed because you got sick.

When it comes to packing for your warm holiday, pack clothing that is light and will breathe. One such type of clothing is made out of cotton as it is a breathable material and it will help keep you cool. As well, choosing cotton clothing in light colours will help to keep from the heat being absorbed into the fabric and causing you to heat up. A hat can help keep you a bit cooler as well, select one that is light coloured with holes in it to allow the heat to escape. Once you are home, these can be added to your camping equipment.

A personal fan can be a life saver as you can turn it on if it is electric, or whip it open if it’s a manual one, and help to keep yourself cool. This is likely something that you will have to raid from your camping equipment but having more than one is not a bad thing.

When travelling to a foreign country or any location that is hotter than where you live, especially if you are going in your countries winter, it is best to follow a few simple tips to help you stay healthy on your holiday. If you camp in the summer, you may already have some of the items you will want to take with you in your camping equipment and you can just raid that supply.

4 Types Of Sleeping Bags

Thu, 26 May 2011 16:59:38 +0000

Let let your next camping trip go sour with the wrong sleeping bag. You can purchase sleeping bag online at a good price and buy one that meets the needs of any camper. Here are 4 types of sleeping bags that anyone can crawl into.

Type 1 Sleeping Bag - A compact sleeping bag with 190T Ripstop polyester shell and compression sack side zip. It's got a drawstring hood, Hollowfibre filling, comes in olive green, and weighs approximately 900gms.
Type 2 Sleeping Bag - Like the Type 1, it too features a side zip, a compression sack, and a drawstring hood. However, it includes a cotton lining along with the Hollowfibre filling. The polymide shell is a 250gms nylon shell.
Type 4 Sleeping Bag - All the features of the Type 4 sleeping bag are the same as the type 2 sleeping bag except the polymide shell is 350gms nylon. It's also a little larger.
Warm Weather Sleeping Bag - The warm weather sleeping bag is a British jungle sleeping bag. This military issue green sleeping bag is perfect for sleeping in the summer with its lightweigh material. Comes in color green.

Find more sleeping bags and outdoor sleeping gear at ArmySurplus365.

German Para Boots, what’s the fuss about?

Wed, 25 May 2011 21:23:47 +0000

An interesting customer review which was posted on a blog!

When I first heard about how popular these are in the UK, I wondered why, after all there not even British….

But when I looked into them I was really surprised, first of all what are they for. Well originally they were designed for German soldiers who parachute out of aircraft hence the term German Para boots. But quite surprisingly they feel quite heavy to hold, again I looked into the British equivalent the British Assault Boot and they are heavier. But then I tried them on….. Well I am beginning to see why German Para boots are quite popular. They are extremely comfortable to wear and after a short while you don’t even notice the slight extra weight. In fact looking on the positive side think of the extra calories you can burn!

I also looked online and I found quite a few different sites and forums where people are extremely impressed with them. The main point that came up over and over again was how well they last, with a couple of people talking about how they lasted seven plus years! That is good for a boot. And were not talking about couch potatoes, people were using them for all sorts, from farms full of mud to bikers to working on construction sites as well as the more obvious simple recreational/trekking group.

The more I looked into them the more I found out. The German Para Boots have been through several revisions, each and every time they looked at the performance and fixed the minor flaws, so the boots you can get your hands on today are exceptional. The higher the mark, the more improvements currently round about mark 7 although earlier marks are still excellent quality, some just have a different lacing system.

Another advantage of the German Para Boots that I think gets overlooked is the available sizes. Because they are in European sizing, it is possible to get half sizes great for all us unusual people out there. All these things combine to make one hell of a versatile boot, and if you look in the right place, you can get them at very reasonable prices as well. Army surplus 365 sell Grade 1 German Para Boots for £29.99 and unlike several sites I went on they have a great range of sizes! I managed to get a size 5 which seems quite rare; I’ve also heard that supply seems to be limited, probably because the German Soldiers don’t want to give them up.

So if you want to get a pair I suggest you don’t hang about and I bet you will be converted, just like me!

Hunters, Equip Your Heads

Wed, 25 May 2011 16:25:19 +0000

You don't have to spend tons of money to equip your head with the right head gear for your hunting trip. Really, what do you need?

You need a hat, preferably one that will shield the sun from your face and eyes. You need eye protection. And that's about it. A few other accessories can deck you out a little more fully, but they're optional.

Here is a short list of headwear items that you might consider for your hunting closet:

Thinsulate hat - For less than £4, is a small item, but one you'll appreciate on those cold weather hunting trips.
BDU boonie hat - A camouflage hat with a pull string. Comfortable and affordable.
Jack Pyke lightweight mesh balaclava - For the serious hunter who wants to remain comfortable yet blend in with his environment.
Reversible boonie hat - Like two hats in one.
Jack Pyke full-length neck gaitor - Keep the neck warm and stay comfortable.
Baseball hat - Several styles and colors, not to mention brands, to choose from.
Bandana - Always a nice addition to your clothing collection.
Flyers goggles - Great eye protection for any mission.
Viper tactical glasses - The perfect piece of eyewear for your hunting mission.
Viper tactical goggles - If you like the tactical glasses, you'll love the tactical goggles. Keep the dust out of your eyes. Great for those over-the-cab standing-in-the-bed pickup hunting trips, or those jeep tactical missions.

Many of these headwear items double as hunters clothing and as military clothing. Whether you are a military tactical operative in need of protective head gear or a hunter who want to be comfortable and tactical, these headwear items will make your mission the best it can be.

8 Military Boots For Under £50

Tue, 24 May 2011 15:30:51 +0000

Anyone who has ever purchased military boots before knows they can be expensive. From your run-of-the-mill combat boots to special weather boots, military boots are some of the most expensive gear around. It's easy to understand why, too. Most boots are made of leather and they have to be carefully crafted to withstand extreme conditions. That craftsmanship spells expense, doesn't it?

Nevertheless, you don't have to break the bank on your footwear. Whether you are looking for good military boots for the combat zone or you just like to wear solid footwear on your hunting expeditions, you can find good military boots at a good price at ArmySurplus365.

Here are 8 different types of boots that you can right now for less than £50:

Combat Assault Boots, Grade 1 - These fine boots come in at £19. Very impressive.
Desert Boots, Grade 1 - Another good fit for just £19.
Genuine Army German Para Boots - Falling at just under £30, you can save 25% off the regular price of £39.99. These boots are in grade 1 condition.
Mil-Com Desert Boots - Mil-Com is one of the recognized brands in UK desert boots. You can save 6% off the regular price today and get them for £32.95. Made of genuine cow suede, they are sand colored and oil resistant.
Mil-Com Patrol Boots - £33.99. Made of super action black leather and 1150D Cordura.
Mil-Com Leather Patrol Boots - For less than £1 more you can get the full leather boot with leather lining, padded cow suede collar, and PU sole with steel shank.
Viper Tactical Boots - Regular price of £65, you can save 31% by getting these waterproof breathables at £44.95.
British Assault Boots - Down from £59.95, these all-purpose assault boots can now be had for £44.95, a savings of 25%.

Now is the perfect time to get your UK combat boots and other military boots at a discount. Hurry while supplies last and these prices are still in effect.

The Best Hunter's Jacket In The UK

Mon, 23 May 2011 16:41:42 +0000

UK hunters don't have to go far to find a superior hunting jacket. I recommend the Jack Pyke 3 in 1 Hunters Jacket.

For starters, you can choose your colour. Your options include English Oak and Hunter Green. Then, of course, is the size option. Available sizes start at Small and move upward from there to triple eXtra large (that's XXXL).

These options are just the beginning, however. The Jack Pyke 3 in 1 Hunters Jacket is a breathable waterproof jacket that is comfortable and protects you from the weather. Plus, it does what it is supposed to do - camouflage you so that smart game can't idenity you as a hunter. You'll blend in with the surrounding environment and feel more secure that you will come home with your prize.

The jacket also has a detachable fleece, which makes it flexible and versatile. You can wear it in a number of ways depending on the weather and your particular hunting mission.

Features of the jacket, which give it additional functionality that any hunter can appreciate, include:

Internal chest pocket, perfect for keeping your hunting license in a safe, secure, and conenient reachable location.
Large internal pockets for keeping shells and other hunting necessities.
Velcro sleeve adjusters, because you never know when the temperature may change, cooling or warming up with little notice.
Fold down, waterproof seat flap/game pocket.
Integrated hood - You know you'd appreciate this on your hunting trip during inclement weather.

Your Jack Pyke 3 in 1 Hunters Jacket is waiting for your UK hunting enthusiasm to drop by and snap it up - before someone else does.

Jack Pyke

Tue, 05 Apr 2011 13:26:17 +0000

Jack Pyke are well known for high quality clothing, knives and accessories for the tackle and gun clientele.

As a supplier of Jack Pyke products, you will find the entire range on our website including items in the famous English Oak camo and the new Woodland Camo.

You will find that the Jack Pyke range of products are manufactured to high standards,offered at very affordable prices. Jack Pyke have been involved in the outdoor market for over 20 years, so we have the experience, the knowledge, the resources and the feedback to offer you fantastic equipment manufactured to the highest standards using quality materials at affordable prices.

A Look At Army Surplus

Tue, 05 Apr 2011 13:24:48 +0000

A Look At Army Surplus

Simply put, an army surplus store is a store that obtains and sells surplus items from the army. Individuals from all walks of life purchase and enjoy these items. Clothing from the army usually becomes available when either a change in technology or a change of clothing requirements takes place. The clothing is no longer needed and only desired to be out of the way so that they can function well.

One of the qualities many appreciate about army clothing is that it is very well made and durable. The manufacturers are making clothing for people who will be in harsh conditions for months. Army men are in need of an outfit they can count on to perform and last as they do their duty.

Because they are made from such strong material, they are quite useful for anyone planning to be involved in outdoor activities or perhaps those who have a job that is very physical or dirty. Hunters, backpackers, scientists, and miners alike have all been known to wear this type of clothing proudly.

Those who love vintage looking wear find this fashion attractive. And there are many different items to be discovered at a shop like this. Some of the more popular selling items include: combat boots, messenger bags, aviator shades, tents, and jackets.

While it is hard to call this clothing fashionable, it seems that the army style never really goes out of fashion either. Little boys are often decked out in army gear, much to the delight of everyone who sees them. And hunters wear army-looking clothing to camouflage themselves from the animals they are hunting.

Wearing this clothing also brings to mind what it stands for. Many have friends and family in the army, and wearing this clothing will remind them of their sacrifices and loyalty. Perhaps some feel that wearing the clothing is a way to show their respect.

Not only are there traditional army surplus stores, but there are online stores that one can purchase from as well. While some appreciate being able to try clothing and gear on themselves, online stores offer much in the way of convenience. Using this venue you can shop from the comfort of your home without spending money on gas and wasting a lot of time. Occasionally auctions will be held to get rid of an abundance of army items as well.

You may not realize that thousands of military items are sold every year to the public. And not all of this involves clothing and gear. You may actually be able to purchase an army surplus vehicle if you keep your eyes open.

While certain types of army vehicles will not be sold to the public, many are, and if state or local governments do not first purchase them, you may find yourself a great deal on a rough and ready vehicle. Make sure to thoroughly inspect the vehicle you are considering. These are sold as is, and there may well be some issue that is not mentioned at the time of purchase.

Saving Money Through Army Surplus Clothing

Tue, 05 Apr 2011 13:22:31 +0000

Saving Money Through Army Surplus Clothing

Anyone who has been affected by the current financial crisis that we are going through with certainly be wanting to find some ways of cutting costs. With your own income going down and costs of various necessities going up it is certainly becoming very difficult for many regular people to keep up with their financial obligations. As such, we are all doing everything we can to save money and when we look into the option of purchasing clothing we may well do is consider the idea of going to an army surplus store.

Army surplus stores will offer us the opportunity to purchase all sorts of items that are considered surplus to requirements of the army. As such, we are able to find bargains and discounts on all sorts of different products that we might need, and certainly it is easily possible for you to find all sorts of different clothing options in the stores as well.

When you consider the sort of clothing that you can get you might wonder whether it is simply used army clothing that is therefore being sold at a cheaper price. However, this is not necessarily the case and there are a number of reasons why you the clothing on offer is so cheap.

One of the reasons is due to government subsidy. In many of the products that you might find in one of the stores that will be tax exemptions apply to them and therefore you are able to get them at a much cheaper price than you would with a regular product that has all of these taxes applied.

Another factor that will affect the price that you will be paying will be the law of supply and demand. There may well be more army clothing available than what is really required by the military and therefore the XS all surplus clothing that is in stock can be sold on to regular people at a much cheaper price.

Of course, another fantastic benefits of going out and getting this sort of clothing is simply the availability that is on offer. There are many different army surplus stores that you could go and find in your local area, and also numerous other sections of the department stores will be given over to this purpose as well.

Due to this fact, it is very simple for you to browse through all sorts of different clothing options that you might need without having to commit to travelling a long way to find a specific store. And of course, even if you are unable to find a local store in your area then the Internet is readily available to pick up the reins. A ring of military uniforms and clothing online is just as easy as going into a regular shop and there are many different online shops where you will be able to do your purchasing as well.

Certainly, opting for surplus army clothing is a great way to save money in these testing times.

What Can You Find At An Army Surplus Store?

Tue, 05 Apr 2011 13:20:49 +0000

What Can You Find At An Army Surplus Store?

Some of you might have heard about an army surplus. You might have gone by this sort of store when you were driving around. Some of you might be wondering what they carry and things of that nature. We're here to help you understand just that. Then maybe you can decide if this is the store for you.

An army surplus store is a store to get things that those who serve in the army might need. This includes uniforms. It also includes other things as well. While they sell army things, they sell things for other branches as well. On top of that, anyone can really shop here too. It's not just for those who serve.

So, what do they serve? They serve a number of items. One of the first things that they have for you to buy are things for camping. They have the canteens like they use when soldiers deploy. They have the meals on the go known as MRE's. They also have a number utility knives and so much more. Those who love to go camping often come here to get those sort of things.

Another thing that you will find is clothing. Some of them have some pretty funny shirts. You know that in the military they normally banter among the branches as to why they are the best branch and so forth. They often have shirts to talk about these things as well. This can really be nice when you are looking for a gift for that special soldier of yours.

Yet, they want to offer things to those who support the troops. That is why you will find shirts and other things that proudly display how they are related to which branch. Army moms can find the shirts that tell others that their son or daughter is in the Army. Same thing for the Marines and the spouses as well. Some of them show where they are serving at.

Veterans can find the same sort of thing. They will find those shirts and hats as well as jackets that show which branch they served in as well as which what war they fought in. This shows their pride. That is why you should stop here. It's a true store that supports their local troops.

There are also other things you can get that you might not be able to find such as the things you might like to wear come winter. These would be the thermal wear. On top of that, you can find other gear that might come in handy.

So, as you can see, at the army surplus, you can find a number of things that might say that you this is what you need. These things you might only be able to find at these stores. They go for a good cause. This is all that you can find in the army surplus... Well, almost everything. Check out your local one and see if there is something you might like.

Those Who Shop At An Army Surplus Store

Tue, 05 Apr 2011 13:18:01 +0000

Just Who Are Those Who Shop At An Army Surplus Store

The army surplus store can be a very resourceful store for many people. Some people wonder just who shops at these stores and why. There are many different types of people who shop here and we will discuss a few of them. Here are a few examples that find these stores great.

One group is of course military personnel. They shop here to get things that they might not find at a commissary. This allows them to have the things they need so that they can serve their country. They get good rates too so that they aren't paying a ton. When things go broke or missing and they are home, it's sometimes easier just getting them here rather than ordering them when they are with their unit.

National Guard members have to get their things here as they don't have a base. They have camps that they go to in order to prepare for their duties overseas. So, if they need something, they will have to go to an army surplus store near them to get the clothing and other gear that they will need.

Family and those who support a certain branch often shop here as they are proud to display that they are related or that they support that branch. Here you can find every branch and an array of clothing and other items to show your support and gratitude of them. This is just another reason that people shop here.

Those who like to go camping go here to shop for things that they can use. Here you can get thermal underwear and much more. This can help you greatly so that you won't freeze. You have pretty much state of the art supplies as those who are in the military have done this a number of times. Therefore, because they have to go do this longer than just a weekend, they go about and have it so that the things are all god to go and can weather anything.

Then there are boyscouts that go through this. They do a lot of camping and in some odd way, they are like soldiers. They take the boys on trips that are pretty extreme and hardcore at times. That is why they need the good camping gear that they will sometimes get them from these stores. It can come in pretty helpful.

The next types of people who use this sort of store known as an army surplus would be those who have served in the military themselves. They have all sorts of things that show support for those who fought in certain wars. Then, there are those POW and MIA things that people sport to remember of those who have been prisoners of war as well as those who have never been found, but who have served.

These are all of those who would be most likely the ones to go about and shop at these stores. They might be a little high end on some things when they come to price, however, you will find that you can get some of those hard to find things. So whether you are looking to support a soldier or if you are just looking to go about and get ready for a camping trip, this might be your store.

Paintballing

Tue, 05 Apr 2011 13:16:49 +0000

Clothing

Always wear long sleeves and long trousers to protect your bare skin. A genuine paintball mask that fits correctly, a hat and some gloves are also essential. Knee pads are optional, but if you feel like pulling of rambo moves they are crucial. Extra body armour can be purchased including check and leg armour. Choose clothes that are not restrictive but offer good padding. Think about what clothing suits your environment. Playing in snow is a lot different to the woods. Before you arrive in white tennis shoes remember that your shoes also need to be concealed. Paintball specific gloves have foam on the back of the hand for extra protection. You can cut the trigger finger off to help you fire faster.

Barrells

Look after your barrells and keep a range of sizes as the paint balls will change in size throughout locations. When in play you should keep a squeegee on you incase you get paint in your barrell causing you to fire curve balls. Paint ball guns are not very accurate so keeping your barrells clean is important. If you are a sniper you sould get a longer barrell that puts a spin on the balls.

Tanks

Tank covers are good for a comfortable aim as the bare tank can be slippy when leant against your shoulder. Don’t pass the psi of your tank, check the date as using an expired tank is dangerous. The tanks use propellant types of either high pressure air or liquid CO2. High pressure air is better for more accurate shots than liquid air. If your tank runs out you can carry a small 12 gram tank which you replace with the large tank.

Markers and guns.

Markers are the main body of a gun. A hopper is the container of paintballs that beed the marker. The final section of the gun is the tank. Cheap markers do not last long. After about 2000 shots you will see an inferior quality marker start leaking. Pay three times as much for a decent marker and it will last you six times as long as a cheap low value marker. Paintballs can get stuck in feeder to the marker so test your marker for features that aid the flow of your amunition.

Different Games

Each game can vary with rules depending on where you are playing. Games range from each man playing for himself to team games where flags have to be stollen. Some even play preditor when one person is the preditor and can only be killed with paint to a red area on their stomach.Team slayer

Gear Maintenance

The paint from the paintballs can eat away at your goggles so make sure they are cleaned before the end of the day. Remove the lense before cleaning both frame and lense. Your marker should be cleaned out regularly and the air tank checked for propellant. Some goggles have an antiglare coating which can be destroyed by non manufacture approved cleaning materials.

Hunting in Scotland

Tue, 05 Apr 2011 11:37:43 +0000

When it comes to clothing for hunting everyone has their own taste and favourites. Here are some tips for your selection if you are new to hunting and looking for some attire advice.

If you are deer hunting , you must wear weatherproof clothing which is quiet when you move your arms. Waxed jackets and plastic or nylon based are not recommended. Waxed jackets become nastily stiff when wet and if you are deer hunting getting wet is likely! Wazed jackets are ok for rough shooting or driven bird shooting as noise will not be a hindering factor. Non waterproof tweed and loden are not recommended as these become really heavey when wet.

The best idea is to get clothes that are soft and breathable. Cammo coloured clothing is ok for pigeon shooting and deer hunting , but definitely not acceptable for driven shooting. Don’t forget a smart plain cap in muted colours and with a peak for shadding your eyes.

When the sun has got its hat on in the summer a sleeveless 'body warmer' or gilet would be most suitable. Unfortunetly it is cold most of the time, so when it is wear two thin jerseys underneath one another and a long sleeved shirt from thin cotton.

Trousers

Number one thing to be concerned about is wearing compfy trousers that do not restrict your walk. Tweed trousers are recommended as they can handle barbed wire and tough brambles. Gore-tex have some high-wait trousers which are waterproof and breathable but easily rip on fences and brambles. All the highland keepers where tweed so take a leaf from their book. Tweed does not go dark when wet so great for keeping concealed when deer hunting don't chill when wet and cope with briars.

Footwear

Now for your feet: Waterproof footwear is comonsense. The I have found is lace up and over-ankle leather boots. They are bulky in your travel bag but are suitable for every kind of shoot, it’s a safe bet. Rubber wellingtons are useful if the weather is wet and you are low ground hunting, but otherwise they are hopeless for support and warmth.

Gloves

Always have two pairs of fingerless gloves. You need them for shooting and if one pair gets wet you have back up. Even if it is warm pigeon shooters wear them to hide their white hands.

Accessories

A cartridge bag for driven shoots with a shotgun or a cartridge belt for walked up shooters. A few other things may include soft gun slip, small knapsack to carry lunch, camera, spare jersey and to even carry a bird or two if you are at the end of a line and the keeper can't collect the bird off you immediately. Gun cleaning kit.

Take a pair of binoculars if you are deer hunting with a rifle,knife and some string if you are hunting on a 2:1 basis. Also get a small back pack to carry spare jersey. Every hunter will need a knife. Sticks are great for testing moss areas covering deep water, before you end up wet and cold test it with your stick. Woodland stalkers should take a long stick and hill stalkers a shorter one Don’t forget to wedge in your bag some insect repellent and a rifle cleaning kit. You can buy a lot of your items online for better prices, search for army surplus as those sites offer really suitable items at less specialist prices.

Improving your Paintball Game

Tue, 05 Apr 2011 11:36:26 +0000

It takes teamwork, awareness and strategy to clean up your competition on the field at paintball. Of these qualities strategy is the most important and who you are playing will determine which strategy is best to apply.Learning how to adopt tactics that can allow you to penetrate the opposition without leaving your own position open. It is not possible to guard the base attach and protect flanks at the same time so team work is crucial. It will take your awareness of your opponents position and thoughts to win. Like a game of chess you need to know your opponents abilities and their awareness and experience. Knowing their location and the environment for cover spots are fundamentals to a good result. Paintball is a game of outwhitting your opposition and reactiving fast to their movements.

The following tips will help you get a better edge on the strategy, teamwork, and awareness you need to take your game play to the next level:

1. Create a diversion by letting the opp see you at one position then hiding and moving fast to another position where you can get a clear shot. The opp will be focussed on where you were when they saw you not where you end up appearing. The faster you are at moving the more successful you will be at surprising them from a new location.

2. Just like in the movies “cover me” can work in paintballing. If you know where the enemy is hiding one team mate can focus attention on them to prevent you being shot by them while you sneak up on them for a tag. Be aware of the field layout tho as if the opp is not cornered they may move from their original position.

3. Keep an eye out of the whole area in front of you all times – not just where you are heading. Eat your carrots to get eye sight like a hawk and spot any sudden movements. The sooner you know where everyone is the more time you have to decide your next move.

4. Standing around in the same place will get you shot. The more you move the less aware your opp are to your location. Run when you see the enemy are taking over and hide as soon as they appear. Getting flat on the ground is the best cover if you are too far away from a decent object to hide behind.

5. Move up the field at any possible chance when you know its clear. Be confident in attacking forward and do not hesitate.

7. Do not reveal your new position as soon as you get to it. Pause and survey the land for perhaps a better position. Take a look at your new angle and see what it offers. You have mave found a lucky spot where snipering will clock up your kill count.

8. Keep it simple, you may feel like being Rambo and looking really cool but reality is you are more likely to be taken down. Getting shot while looking cool does not work. Take your time; remember its positioning and good shots, not atheletic flips and rolls.

9. When guarding a base try to get some hight. Clmbing a tree is a good ideas as many people don’t look up and your camo is increased. But do not stay in the same tree for too long as the opp will get wise to where you are

10. Finally communicate with your teammates as much as possible, its ten times more easy to win as a team. Even if the opp hear you shouting info at each other they will not be able to react with it.

11. Make sure you have decent attire. Freely moving clothing is important, a good pair of fingerless gloves can give you a better grip. Check out army surplus stores as you will be surprised what suitable items they offer at much better prices than paintball specific merchants.

Paintball Guns

Sun, 03 Apr 2011 11:03:02 +0000

There is a massive variety of paintball guns on the market today. The cheapest gun would start at about £49 stripped down. Then you could get a starter package that includes a hopper, air tank and mask for £99 as an entry level price. Most of the time if you are playing on a walk-on rental field you will probably be using a tippmann gun as these are the work horse guns of paintball guns. They can take a lot of abuse and are a standard within the game. Tippmann guns start at about £125.

Gun choices

Your choice of play will choose the type of gun that suites you best. Longer range sniper shots will differ to close range an quick fire shots. If you are interested in speedball rather than woodsball you are going to want an E gun, or at least a high capacity weapon that will delivery as much paint as possible. E guns use a battery operated trigger that allow you a selected number of bursts per shot. These are really appropriate in speed ball because you will want to put a lot of paint down.

Barrells

It is important to keep your barrells clean as a smooth exit for the balls create a cleaner, more accurate shot. You can buy a range of after market barrells with different styles of porting. Porting is the term for controlling the spin of the ball as the ball leaves the gun. Holes in the side of the barrell cause the ball to spin a particular way helping it to stay straight for a better aim. Different manufactures use different porting techniques but the end goal is the same. You will also find flat line barrells which are curved in shape then straighten out. This curve helps to cause extra spinning for more accuracy and increased distance.

Barrell Plugs

One of the quickest ways to get in to trouble in paintballing is to be in a no-fire zone on the field without a barrell plug. These are brightly coloured (usually organge) rubber stoppers that wedge down the barrell letting everyone know that you are not able to release a shot and injure anyone. You must always use this, or a barrell sock (same principle) when in a no fire zone.

Compressed air versus CO2

A lot of rental fields you visit will have an air compressor in the gun hut to fill your air tanks with. A twenty ounce tank of compressed air will last you at least 200 to 300 balls depending on the weather conditions. Generally speaking you do not get the performance out of this air as much as you do from CO2. The reason for this is that CO2 is a lot more stable, lasts longer and releases smoother.

O-Rings for your paintball gun

O-rings are small rubber rings placed on the air tank head. This ensures a strong seal between the gas and your weapon. Make sure this is always in good order as your tank can last twice as long with a decent seal over a weak one. Also make sure you have a good burst disk valve. This is the piece inbetween the O-ring and the tank. If both these items are in good condition your gas will last longer and you can avoid visiting a pro shop to get your tank fixed.

Gloves for your guns

Grip, warmth, manovability and camouflage all need to be considered when selecting some gloves. For camo gloves Jack Pyke deliver the best, these can be found at any decent army surplus store. For flexability and grip fingerless gloves by Viper are a good choice as your trigger finger is free but you still have palm grip on your weapon.

Joining the British Army Infantry Training

Sun, 03 Apr 2011 10:59:35 +0000

Joining the British Army Infantry Training

Infantry men do all their training at the infantry training centre in Catterick in Yorkshire. The infantry are one of the teeth arms within the army. An infantry’s job is to close in on the enemy and to kill them. They have to be ready to deploy on operations the moment they leave the training centre. The main ares that are concentrated in Catterick are minor tactics, fieldcraft and a range work.Incidentally, Stirling Airsoft regularly run their Airsoft Games at Catterick so you can experience what it's like to battle in the Infantry's FIBUA Training Village without having to sign up for the Army.

The course is very physical and demanding. It is to train you to be ready for your job so you can be called upon at any time to go anywhere. You have to have a mental strength about you to be in the infantry. The course is 26 weeks long or 28 if you are joinging the parachute regiment or one of the Guards regiments. The recruitments are training by people from the regiment they are likely to join. For example a rifflemans instructor will train a riffleman’s recruite. The training staff are hard working will always lead by example. They never ask anything they can not do themselves. They are tough when they need to be tough. They are intimidating at first but the recruites get used to this and learn to do what they are asked when they are asked.

Self discipline is one of the most important things that keep the army in great shape and this will be drilled into all the new recruites from day one.You learn everything during the course you need to survive in the field as an infantry soldier. Everyday something new is taught and full one-on-one guidance is given when you need it.

The fact that the recruites are in the same boat as everyone else gives them an extra energy they may not have experienced before. Loyatly, trust and honesty gell the group together and you will soon find your self feeling apart of the family team.

After 6 weeks you earn the right to wear your own regimental berry. Up until then you will just use standard equipment that may include army surplus. At this point the training becomes a lot more challenging and interesting. The fitness program becomes progressively more demanding and you carry a lot more wait on the long runs. The shooting becomes more progressive with longer distances and different scenarios. Learning how to look after yourself under extreme weather conditions is included along with signal training, driving and much much more. Nutrition , key facts about the environment and elements will be fed into the young lads to turn them into self sufficent fighting machines.

In the last few weeks of the course the recruites will be in the battle camp. This is more demanding and pulls together everthing learned up to this point from minor tactics to the required standard of shooting.

At the end of the course you will attend a passing out parade.This parade is the mark of completing the course and becoming one of the regiment.

Hunting with a Shotgun

Sun, 03 Apr 2011 10:57:10 +0000

Small game is usually hunted with a shotgun from a close range. There are many locations within the UK where you can have a mini shooting vacation; Scotland hosting some of the best around. This article will cover some main points when hunting with a shotgun.

When choosing a shot gun it comes down to personal preference and budget. You can use pump action or semi automatic. Pump action requires you to reload each cartridge between each shot.You may find that you are more suited to one particular gun over another but only practice and experience will reveal your chosen weapon. It is important to practice shooting with your shotgun before going on a hunt as you need to get familiar with your gun. This will help with your aim. If you are keen to hunt on a regular basis you will find your aim get a lot more accurate if you use the same gun.

When on your hunt space yourself 40 yards apart but inline with all the shooters. You should not shoot more than 45 degrees to the left or right from central direction you are walking in. This pattern will allow all members of your group to have an equal share of the fun. It is also more safe.

Any shotgun is going to have quite a kick to it, the recoil from this can put quite a big bruise on your shoulder so rememebr to always position it propperly when you pull the trigger. Make sure that when you aim you have firmly placed the butt of the gun into your shoulder. Always stand side on when shooting to give you a firmer stance. Align the groves at the back of the gun with the bead at the tip of the gun. Aim just under your target before you pull the trigger as the shotgun will kick back and lift up shooting above your original target. Hold your breath as you fire to minimise movement of the gun.

Camouflage is a very important aspect of hunting, especially duck hunting as ducks have really sharp eyes and can see you from a great distance. A good camouflage specific to your environment is important. Weatherproof camo is important for keeping you dry and warm. Material such as plastic based clothing is not recommended as even small noisey movements could give your position away. There are many great stores online providing hunting wear such as army surplus shops.

When selecting your cartridges remember that larger pellets are better for close game and smaller pellets are better for longer shots. The 12 gauge is the most common, go with this if you are unsure. If you are shooting high birds a longer barrell has been known to have better results.
When shooting you must have been given clearance from the game keepers. Also if you are shooting in wetlands you must not use lead shots as the streams and water wildlife can be contaminated. Hearing protection should always be worn and your shells should always be collected.

Camping in Cold Environments

Sun, 03 Apr 2011 10:55:07 +0000

Camping in Cold Environments.

Before setting off on a fairly dangerous camping trip you should always give your friends or family a copy of your itinerary, making them aware of where you are going in case of the event where you do not return.

Clothing

Extra layers is abvious when heading in to colder climates, Make sure you have extra room in your bags to cater for this.Wool and synthetic wool are the better options for warm clothing. If cotton gets wet it will keep you warm and it will take a long time to dry out. Pack darker coloured clothing as they retain more heat from the sun. Pack many socks incase your feet get wet. Your head releases more heat than any other body part so it’s a great idea to sleep in a hat and a scarf. Attach fleece gloves or mittens to the inside of the arms in your jackets, if you lose your gloves you will regret it, but if you do you could always use some extra dry socks you have packed.

Tips for your tent in cold climates

The ground will be a lot colder in the winter so if you have the room pack an extra sleeping bag pads, a light wieght closed cell pad and an inflatable one for additional insulation. When going to sleep use your flask filled with hot water by your feet as a hot water bottle. Even though you will want to curl up in the feotus position with your head inside the sleeping bag it is best not to. If you breath inside your sleeping bag the moist will wet the inside and make your sleeping bag less insulated. Instead wear a hat and scarf with your head outside the bag. Remember that your sleeping bag will not make you warm but will only keep you warm. Eat before bed something warm, sink a hot drink in you and get some fire time.

Food and water tips for camping in the cold

Pack your water bottle upside down, then incase it freezes the mouth end will be free of ice. If you are in sub zero environments so make sure you pack it deep inside your ruck sack. Water bottle insulators are also an option. If it is really cold you can fill your water bottle with warm water so it will freeze slower.

The good news about camping in the cold is that you can burn more caleries - up to 8000 calories a day! A great way to lose wieght or enjoy endulging in food you don’t often consume. Pass on caffeinated drinks tho as these will help you lose water which is not a good idea. Crow bar in your bag plenty of hot beverages and hot soup fruit flavoured drinks, water and instant breakfast drinks. In high altitudes food will take longer to cook so plan for this with meals that don't require long boiling times. An extra camping stove could be packed to melt snow to provide you with extra water which you would have had to pack.

Back backs for camping

Sun, 03 Apr 2011 10:51:22 +0000

Back backs for camping

One of the first components to look at when selecting a back pack is storage capacity; you want to make sure that there is enough room to fit all your gear. During summer camping it is not as important to have as much space as during the winter. During the winter its obvious that you will have more clothing layers and that you will be packing a bulkier sleeping bag and possibly a larger tent.

The second thing to look at is padding; nothing is more annoying that having your back grinded by an unpadded area on long hikes.When having a heavey ram-packed bag you are going to need good cussioning. Pay close attention to padding around the hard strut running down the centre of the bag; this strut is to give the bag an upright support and can often protrude.

The next thing to look at is the hip belt, if you have a poor hip belt you are going to need another holiday to get over your tip as your body is going to hurt. The hip belt is the major part that holds of most the wieght of the pack. The shoulder straps are their to keep the bag from falling off your back. Check out the accessory straps. Look for multiple strapping to cator for as many items to be attached on the exterior of the pack.

Another component to look our for are syn straps – these are the straps you can pull to compress the contents of your backpack. It keeps your contents closer to your body and increases capacity. These are really important if you think that you may be adding to your back during your journey. You will be impressed by the amount of extra items you can pack if packed well and compressed with the syn strapps. If you are a back packer travelling for months at a time then its even more important as you are more likely to collect items on your journey.

Hiking and back packing foot wear guide

Sun, 03 Apr 2011 10:48:36 +0000

Hiking and back packing foot wear guide
Selecting Hiking Boots
You will find some people hiking in any shoes when they are not sure what they are doing, but it is important to wear the correct foot wear when treking over any abnormal terrane. Hiking boots secure your foot into place a lot more so there is less friction and not as much rubbing. Also being water proof you are better equipt through snow and streams. Waterproof boots without a separate tongue are great as they protect your foot up to the top of the laces. Look out for breathable boots as if they are waterproof but not beathable then it will feel like you are wearing trash bags on your feet. Hiking boots come in both high and low tops. If you are climbing over rocks where your feet are twisting you will need more support so go for the high tops, otherwise you are prone to spraining an ankle.
When trying on your boots try wearing two socks as you may need to wear these in extra cold climates. When tying your laces make then really tight but not so you are cutting of the circulation and always use the metal braces.If you are able to, try to walk down a steep surface forwards, making sure that your toes are not crammed into the end.
Take an old pair of running shoes with you as when you get to the base camp you are going to want to give your feet a break from the hardcore hiking boots. Running shoes can come in handy when you are running out of day light and need to get back to your camp. You can also do quite well in them if you are forced to hike in them.
Socks
Socks are really important as with the wrong pair leading to severe blisters can stop you from walking altogether. The regularly used hiking socks used to be made of wool , but as wool does not dry very quickly synthetic wool has been developed. They are very warm, dry fast and prevent blisters. As your foot health is so important when hiking it is a good idea to take many pairs, perhaps one for each day. Never opt for a cheap pair as the better the quality the less likely it is you are going to create sores and blisters.

For a range of decent hiking and back packing boots you can visit armysurplus365.co.uk

Some Essentials for Hiking

Sun, 03 Apr 2011 08:47:41 +0000

When you are intending to go hiking it is essential to know something about surviving in the wild. Just a bit of knowledge and a few items can mean avoiding an stressful ordeal in the woods or not even coming back. This quick guide is aimed at giving you the basic techniques and survival tips to help keep you safe when hiking in the wilderness.

Items needed when packing a hiking survival kit

Tinder: this is not the most important item within your kit but I would recommend it as timber, kept dry in a air sealed pack, will always gaurantee you a fast start to making a fire. If you do not pack this you can always use scrunged up bark.

Headlamp or flash light.

Compass: a crucial part of survival as without it you could end up going round in circles. Sense of direction is essential for finding your orientering your way out of a lost scenario.

Whistle: This is one of the most important items in your kit. Three loud blasts of a whistle is the call for help. Make sure you cover your ears when using as you can easily damange them.

Lighting material: A lighter is good but remember if the flint on it is wet it is useless. Matches is the best option inside a waterproof container with a stricker (cut one out from a match box)

String: Very basic but really usefull for tying things down and making a nooses, you never know when you may need it. Take at least 2 meters.

Medical kit: Either a small or large kit. A small kit would be in a plastic air sealed bag and consist of the following items; paracetamol; eye wash; small and large plasters; antiseptic fluid. The larger kits you can buy are good for their instructions which can help you treat wounds you have no previous knowledge of.

Making a camp fire.

Fire is the most important element when surviving in an environment.

You must always use dry wood for creating a fire, the best way to test for this apart from feeling it is to bend the wood. If the wood snaps then its good, else find some other.

Place two handfulls of dry small twigs over one handful of scrunched up dry bark, or timber if you have some. Then place several meduim twigs over the top. Always start off with small pieces of wood as large logs will just sufficate the fire and it’s important for the fire to breath.

Light what you have already laid down then add the larger pieces of wood as the fire gets going. A great alternative to using matches is a fire starter. Once you have lit the fire continue to add further larger pieces of dry wood in a criss cross formation to allow for room under the sticks to draw in air which will help fuel the fire. If you do not have any lighting equipment please read our other articles on making fire from no man made materials.

Military Clothing

Fri, 01 Apr 2011 08:36:46 +0000

In the early days of warfare the clothing was bright and used to unify the soldiers creating a smart and tight team feel to the military. Then as war became more tactical and less barbaric it became obvioius that to be successful camouflage was needed. In the mid 1800’s the British Army dyed their red coats a khaki color to be less visible when fighting in India. A step was made away from the bright peacock like uniform and a move towards stealth was created.

It was in the beginning of the 20th century that Britain and the United States converted to a khaki military wear.

It was the first two world wars which had a huge impact on the military and the funding in military equipment and clothing. Military camouflage material was being made in large volumes on the back of this investment and was mainly being used for shelter cover but soon became popular throughoutt he whole military clothing spectrum in World War Two. Some of the main patterns used in camouflage included swamp,blotchy, striped,spotted, barred Palm, Pea patterns and also Mimetic Cloth.

Both the US and the British made good use of camouflage clothing using them as their uniforms as standard. They were similar, although the British had their own research unit of which the famed magician Jasper Maskelyne work in. The clothing was used for all environments. Each environment requires a different pattern and also depending on the weather sometimes an alternative cloth. The US military have a very large array of camoflauge attire and changed their uniforms between every conflict since the Revolutionary War until World War One.

Vietnam and jungle warfare
Vietnam enforced a great change in the pattern and design of the Amercan uniforms as a result of the environment. This was the first time the tiger stripe pattern that was used for the infamous Green Berets. Being such a successful camoflauge it lead to the whole army taking it on as their standard uniform.

It was in 1980 when velcro was introduced to the military uniform. It did not last too long however as it was feared that the ripping noise using it would reveal the locations of troops when on operations.

During the Vietnam War, many soldiers, Marines and airmen wore flak armor vests to protect from shrapnel. They would not protect from bullets, were uncomfortable, heavy and bulky which made the troops hot. Most of them would either use them to sit on or wear them without shirts when in helicopters.

Military clothing in the desert
The ACU uniform in America was produced in response to the Gulf War. This uniform was aimed at being more comfortable and also allowing for more armor. Pockets were moved from the chest area and placed on the arms to allow for body armor. This was because homemade close range explosions were anticipated. This is a great example of the military being responsive to environemnts that own unique threats.