The list author says: "So, you and your buddies are sitting around in your tattoo parlor/headquarters, throwing knives and sipping whiskey--then, you get the assignment to overthrow a third world nation's dictator. Well, you better have your gear squared away."
"Each team member should select and equip a basic tactical vest--naturally, each vest should have ballistic protection. Load will reflect weapon choice/caliber."
"Since you will be going into Indian country, you need a great knife. Nothing beats the Cold Steel line. This bowie represents the pinnacle of CS weapons--however, for a more straightforward bowie, the Trail Master would suffice."
"You will need a primary high-intensity handheld flashlight. Get several backups and distribute them on your gear. Make sure you have extra bulbs and batteries."
"You need cool shades. Make sure they have ANSI qualifications. Protect your eyes from glare and shards of metal. Hey, if they're good enough for Delta..."
"A critical decision: your team needs good boots. Chose one that wears well in all terrain (unless you know in advance how/where you will be fighting). Make sure it's waterproof. Pack extra laces."
"You need solid tactical gloves: make sure they have Kevlar, reinforced palms, and enhanced knuckles. You know why. Make sure you can manipulate your weapons and equipment with them on."
"This is just a place holder for the real McCoy. Get yourself a decent 1911 .45 ACP handgun. Keep it clean. Buy Wilson Magazines (a critical feature). Since money is no object--or your team is underwritten by the CIA--get some night sights and a flat black finish on it, with some tactical grips."
"Again, another place holder. When you get the real thing, and get it zeroed and broken in, get decent magazines, a red-dot scope, a good tactical sling, adjustable stock, and a weapon light (Surefire). And, get a good bayonet too..."
"Get a decent first aid kit. Every team member should know how to apply their own tourniquet, Quikclot, and seal a wound on the go. Make the kit small enough to pack on your person."
"Your team needs to communicate. Make sure they have the greatest range available (in a city, or rocky terrain, a 35 mile radio becomes a 1 mile radio, or less); get earpieces. Establish a primary frequency and a backup frequency. Use communications sparingly, and only when necessary."
"I know, you'll all soon be back in the tattoo lair, having a scotch and telling stories, but in the field, you might be hungry. Have at least one on you, even for an overnight mission."
"At least one team member better be prepared to do some fast breaching. You need a tool that can slam, break, wrench, and pry. Everyone should have at least a small crowbar on their person, but for bigger jobs, you need bigger tools."
"Since your team is the Expendables, you are all highly qualified knife throwers. Therefore, treat yourself right: get the best throwing knives that money can buy. Fit them with good sheaths, and have them accessible on every part of your kit (vest, belt, boots, etc.). In a pinch, great CQB weapon/survival knife. Keep 'em super sharp. Practice often."
"Everyone needs a solid watch. Synchronize as you leave the plane, boat, van, etc. Get one that's durable and reliable. In a pinch, you can trade it for local currency, to help make your getaway."
"Get a decent canteen. Do your team a favor: make sure everyone has purification tablets/filters with their water kit. Who knows how long you'll be in the field? Don't take a chance on catching a parasite: treat your water."
"You might need to gather valuable intelligence, or document atrocities. At least you can sell what you uncover to the highest bidder. Every team member needs one."
"You don't want to ever be cornered: get one. At least one team member better have one, with a good length of lightweight cord pre-knotted. I wouldn't want to be the last guy going up that rope..."
"You need it, everyone uses them, get a really good one. Maybe get two. Have some weapon specific tools with you too, and a keychain light if you need to do repairs at night/in the dark."
"Your team members will need a decent tactical holster for their 1911s. A drop leg holster should suffice, since it won't interfere with belt gear. This one is just an example: buy the best you can."
"Every team member should have a compass with them. Make sure you all study the topographical maps of the target prior to mission jump off. Chose rendezvous points/fall back sites."
