>>1118053It's been expressed a little in this thread already like
>>1118150 and
>>1118197 have said, but it's not black and white. Some mil-surp gear is excellent, and some of it is shit, it just depends.
I love the USGI current issue sleep system. The cold weather bag is heavy and bulky, but the bivy and patrol bag (basically a 40F bag) are light, simple, durable and honestly better than many bells-and-whistles civilian versions. (Pic related)
In terms of packs, I wouldn't fuck with them personally but some people love them. I've tried them on small outings and they are definitely something designed to carry 100lbs more than I ever intend to take inna woods, and I'd rather have something with more of an eye towards comfort and my target packweight. Doesn't mean people with ALICE or whatever are wrong, it's just my take.
You can get good and cheap fleece jackets, wool socks, undies, thermals, and hats all for a slightly cheaper price and that will last a little longer.
Old school military boots are a bad idea though, and new ones are basically tan versions of civilian stuff at the same price and quality.
The TLDR version is have an open mind, but it's neither all amazing or all shit. Just keep in mind what you want to do with it.
