Slings: Soldiers are purchasing their own slings because the issued variant does not provide the flexibility or comfort they require. Soldier purchased or fabricated tactical slings for the M4/M203 that allowed the weapon to be slung on their back or hung on their chest so they could respond to contact faster.

Tactical sling preferred by soldiers

Sustainability

Desert Camouflage Uniform: The most prevalent comment on the DCU was the need for pockets on the sleeves. Soldiers realize they will wear IBA in almost all environments from now on. The pockets on the front of the DCU are all but useless. Many soldiers have already had a tailor sew pockets on their sleeves. A similar suggestion was made for the pant pockets. The current pockets are frequently blocked by the protective mask carrier and the thigh holster. Soldiers suggested moving the pants pockets to the front of the leg.

The durability of the uniform was questioned due to the propensity of the thread to give away especially in the crotch area. Soldiers felt that dirt was to blame for the high failure rate. Soldiers did not receive an opportunity to have their uniforms laundered for over 30 days of combat. When they did get the opportunity, many refused it because of the perceived likelihood that their uniforms would be lost. Interestingly, we heard a request for a hand-powered platoon or company level washing machine (e.g. a wash board) from several different soldiers and units.

Soldiers also thought the collar was too wide. When we asked why this was a problem, the

soldiers responded that they felt the collar did not present a neat/aesthetic appearance.

T-shirts: Soldiers are purchasing coolmax-type t-shirts because of the wicking properties. The shirts keep the skin dry thereby keeping the soldier warmer when it's cold and cooler when it's warm. Under Armour is a popular brand. The soldiers are also knowledgeable about silk weight underwear.

Socks: A very important item of equipment that generated a good deal of discussion especially among the lightfighters. Many received the black wool/poly pro blend which were too hot for this environment. Some received the Wright sock (tan outside/white inside), which shrunk too much after washing. Soldiers within 3ID had received the dark green sock that was selected and continued to judge it as superior. Again, soldiers felt if they could just keep their socks clean they could better protect their feet.

Belt: As soldiers begin to hang additional equipment from their waist, they need a more robust belt. The belt of choice is a heavy nylon web belt with Velcro fastening and an extraction loop such as Blackhawk's CQB Riggers Rescue Belt.

Gloves: The nomex gloves provided with the rapid fielding initiative were too thick and warm for this environment. Soldiers preferred the air crewmen or mechanic style nomex. Other popular gloves include moto-cross or batting style gloves. Some soldiers purchased HellStorm gloves from Blackhawk.

Camelback: Everyone agrees that the camelback-type hydration system is the way to go. Soldiers stopped even using their 1 qt canteens once the NBC threat subsided. However, the camelback variant that we distributed to the 82d was not rugged enough. The most common comment was that bladders ruptured easily with no way to exchange them. Soldiers' personal experience with camelbacks they've purchased is much better. It seems either we purchased a lower quality version or we received a bad lot. Camelback also offers an NBC variant now that should be considered for future purchases.