WIP, Input appreciated! 2010-2012 USMC Sangin, Helmand Province, Afghanistan (3/5th and 1/7th Marines)
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I am more of a Helmet collector myself, but every once in a while, one of them inspires me to build a Kit around it. This is currently the case with my USMC ACH. I really like this helmet, since it has a kinda rareish trials cover, and does actually fit me nicely.
An ACH is not the first helmet that comes to mind when one thinks about the Marine Corps, but there are actually a ton of references depicting Marines wearing ACHs in Helmand in the early 2010s (does anyone know why?)
I wanted to base the kit specifically on the Deployments of 1st Bn, 7th Marines in 2012. Reason being, that I have quite a bit of stuff (mainly FILBE) already. Other stuff I have already ordered.
I think there's a lot of detail to be put into this Kit, which is what makes it so intriguing to me. Sourcing a genuine Plate Carrier here in Europe will probably be the hardest part.
I have not yet concerned myself with weapons, but building an Airsoft M16 to match the kit would definitely be in the cards. Does anyone know wether the average Rifleman carried a Pistol?
Let me know what you guys think and what should definitely make the Kit List.
Kit List (WIP):
Headwear:
ACH + Reversible Marpat cover, Cateye Band
1-Hole Norotos with Rhino Mount
ESS Profile NVG in Tan
Desert MarPat Boonie
Clothing:
Desert MarPat Frog Combat Shirt + Pants
Belleville 500 Boots
Shemag
Neck gaiter
USMC Polartec 100 Fleece
USMC issue Kneepad
Random Coyote Shooting gloves
Armor:
British MTP Ballistic Diaper (Groin Protector)
(Because its like 30€ here, unlike the genuine USMC one, and it is accurate, see 4th and 8th pic)
USMC Plate Carrier gen 1 or 2
Alternatively: Scalable Plate Carrier (the OG variant)
(Depending on what I can get my hands on first, both is not easy)
LBE/Pouches:
USMC Chest rig/TAP (Clipped onto Vest)
USMC Sub Belt
2x Eagle double mag pouches Coyote
2x Eagle Frag Pouches (with clip)
Var. legacy Molle II Pouches:
2x 100rd SAW (one as IFAK, with Insert)
1x Canteen
1x Ifak Pouch
2x Frag Pouch (one for Compass)
Dutch Coyote Dump Pouch
LBT Hydration Carrier
BFG elastic mag pouches
FILBE Hydration Carrier
FILBE Sust. Pouches
FILBE Assault Pack
Grieblies, Misc.:
Streamlight Sidewinder compact II
USMC OKC3S Bayonet
Tourniquets
Medical Equipment