ALICE questions

[Joe S]

I've recently been considering picking up some used ALICE gear. I've only used civilian systems before, so I have some questions:

1. When I buy a butt pack, it does not come with straps. What do I need to wear the pack? the suspenders and belt? Anything else?

2. Can the butt pack be worn in conjunction with other packs?

3. What have you found to be the most useful things to attach to ALICE gear? Certain things are obvious, as far as firearm, knife, etc., but I was wondering if any of the pouches, canteens, etc. were found to be particularly worth the weight and bulk.

4. Anyone know the best/cheapest place to get ALICE gear, new or used?

Joe S.

 

[V Shrake]

The buttpack attaches to the web belt with 2 metal clips. It also has 2 eyelets at the top/rear of the pack that the suspenders attach to.

You CAN wear a regular pack with a buttpack, but you usually have to drop the buttpack and/or belt pretty low so that the backpack doesn't interfere. And if you're planning on using a civilian framed pack that has a hip belt and the whole deal, forget about wearing your web gear. The best ruck to wear with web gear would be a frame-less pack that doesn't come down too low.

The only way to find out what works best on YOUR web belt is trial and error. I personally stayed away from the buttpack, as it was a PITA. If you leave the rear of your belt open, it allows a much better fit for a framed pack. I would reccomend that you have at least one canteen/cover and cup, keep at least one large tactical folder in your pocket, or put your survival knife on your trouser belt. If you have to ditch your webbing for any reason, you don't want ALL of your eggs in that one basket.

As for best price, get lots of catalogs and price around.

 

[DBH]

V Shrake, that was a pretty good explanation of the butt pack. Also trial and error are the key when wearing your buttpack with your pack. I usually opened the buckle to allow the butt pack to slip down farther, actually on my butt, when wearing my ruck. To each his own.

Definitely shop around to get a good deal on the gear. You can usually get a good deal at Ranger joes (new), and there are probably some pretty good deals out there.

Placement of equipment is also important, I once again agree with V Shrake about knife placement, but to each his own.

Other useful items could be a SAW pouch(big and roomy), and 2 quart canteen(kind of awkward if your Web gear is pretty packed around), and the first aid/compass pouch. A field dressing, a compass, or other small items that you would like to have at a convience.

Hope that helps.