Hi all,
With the recent discussions re orange packs, vests etc .....
Saw these online while looking for a gift for a non-CAP SAR friend who just earned his NASAR SARTECH 3. Let the discussion commence. :angel: >:D
http://www.forestry-suppliers.com/product_pages/Products.asp?mi=48581 (http://www.forestry-suppliers.com/product_pages/Products.asp?mi=48581)
https://www.forestry-suppliers.com/product_pages/Products.asp?MI=48580&title=Tablet-EX-Gear%20Stirling%20Chest%20Pack (https://www.forestry-suppliers.com/product_pages/Products.asp?MI=48580&title=Tablet-EX-Gear%20Stirling%20Chest%20Pack)
Enjoy all, and wear your sunglasses so you don't get permanent retinal damage. ;D
The only issue I see, as this is for a non-CAP SAR person, is putting pouches on the side panels. People normally walk with our arms hanging more of less straight down, swinging fore and aft to maintain balance. There usually isn't more than an inch or two clearance between the arm and the body. Putting pouches there means either the arms will be constantly hitting the pouch(es) or keeping the arms bowed to avoid hitting the pouch(es), expending valuable energy. Also, if you'd need to quickly swing an arm out to catch yourself, hitting the pouch would change the swing and could cause a miss.
(http://s.ecrater.com/stores/36328/4a8bfad037567_36328n.jpg)
For what you get, it's a bit pricey. The tactical orange molle vest I got from dutyapparel.com had more options, was ANSI Class II, and with the discount they give CAP and the exchange rate, I got the vest and 2 pouches + shipping for less than these. Like arajca said, the molle vests allow placement of pouches on front and back, so they feel much more comfortable. If you feel this will best meet your needs, however, then by all means grab one. There is no right or wrong where these are concerned, only personal preference.