I apologize if this topic has been discussed before (I did a search on surplus and didn't see anything)...
What are your views on folks using military surplus kit? Clothes, packs, pouches, cook sets, etc...
Also, what if they were not in the military and use this kit?
Here in the states, using surplus isn't exactly frowned upon (unless you are wearing a uniform with patches you didn't earn), but you do see a lot of "he's out playing army" comments.
I'm struggling with it, only because I have a great respect for our soldiers in uniform. I don't know why it makes me pause and reflect when I use surplus. Perhaps it's because I wasn't in the military and I don't feel as if I earned the right.
On the other hand... Surplus is often rugged, tested, inexpensive kit. The thrifty part of me looks at buying surplus as a way of recycling. Better that this surplus is used than have it sit forever in a warehouse, or get thrown away.
Anyway, what are your thoughts/beliefs on using surplus?
What are your views on folks using military surplus kit? Clothes, packs, pouches, cook sets, etc...
Also, what if they were not in the military and use this kit?
Here in the states, using surplus isn't exactly frowned upon (unless you are wearing a uniform with patches you didn't earn), but you do see a lot of "he's out playing army" comments.
I'm struggling with it, only because I have a great respect for our soldiers in uniform. I don't know why it makes me pause and reflect when I use surplus. Perhaps it's because I wasn't in the military and I don't feel as if I earned the right.
On the other hand... Surplus is often rugged, tested, inexpensive kit. The thrifty part of me looks at buying surplus as a way of recycling. Better that this surplus is used than have it sit forever in a warehouse, or get thrown away.
Anyway, what are your thoughts/beliefs on using surplus?