Field Notes

What Does USGI Mean? Understanding Genuine Mili...

What does USGI mean in military surplus? Learn what U.S. Government Issue gear actually is, how it differs from commercial gear, and how to identify authentic military surplus equipment.

What Does USGI Mean? Understanding Genuine Mili...

What does USGI mean in military surplus? Learn what U.S. Government Issue gear actually is, how it differs from commercial gear, and how to identify authentic military surplus equipment.

ACU vs OCP vs Coyote: Does Camouflage Matter fo...

ACU, OCP, and coyote gear differ in appearance—but not in function. For civilian use, camouflage rarely affects performance, durability, or capability. ACU often offers the best value, OCP provides more...

ACU vs OCP vs Coyote: Does Camouflage Matter fo...

ACU, OCP, and coyote gear differ in appearance—but not in function. For civilian use, camouflage rarely affects performance, durability, or capability. ACU often offers the best value, OCP provides more...

USGI vs Commercial Tactical Gear (Key Differences)

USGI vs commercial tactical gear explained. Learn the real differences in durability, materials, cost, and when surplus makes more sense.

USGI vs Commercial Tactical Gear (Key Differences)

USGI vs commercial tactical gear explained. Learn the real differences in durability, materials, cost, and when surplus makes more sense.

What Is an NSN? How to Identify Genuine Military Gear

What Is an NSN? How to Identify Genuine Militar...

An NSN (National Stock Number) is a 13-digit identifier used by the U.S. military to catalog standardized equipment. Its presence helps confirm military-spec authenticity, but it doesn’t indicate condition, usage,...

What Is an NSN? How to Identify Genuine Militar...

An NSN (National Stock Number) is a 13-digit identifier used by the U.S. military to catalog standardized equipment. Its presence helps confirm military-spec authenticity, but it doesn’t indicate condition, usage,...

How We Grade Military Surplus Gear (Condition, Wear, and What to Expect)

How We Grade Military Surplus Gear (Condition, ...

A practical guide to Issued Supply condition grades, visible wear, listing-specific disclosures, and what to review before ordering military surplus.

How We Grade Military Surplus Gear (Condition, ...

A practical guide to Issued Supply condition grades, visible wear, listing-specific disclosures, and what to review before ordering military surplus.

What “Used Military Surplus” Actually Means (Condition, Wear, and Reality)

What “Used Military Surplus” Actually Means (Co...

“Used military surplus” doesn’t mean worn out—it means issued, carried, and proven. Unlike consumer gear, surplus equipment is built for durability and function first, so cosmetic wear like fading, scuffs,...

What “Used Military Surplus” Actually Means (Co...

“Used military surplus” doesn’t mean worn out—it means issued, carried, and proven. Unlike consumer gear, surplus equipment is built for durability and function first, so cosmetic wear like fading, scuffs,...