For competitors looking to break into The Tactical Games, understanding the gear used by elite-level athletes is a huge advantage. The Tactical Games combines fitness challenges and shooting proficiency, creating unique demands on gear that isn’t just high-performance but also highly adaptable. In this article, we’ll dissect the setup used by seasoned competitor Austin Aylward, who regularly takes the podium in the Elite Division, to help new athletes get a grasp of what gear is both popular and effective for these types of events.

Key Gear Components for The Tactical Games

1. Battle Belt and Pouches

• Belt: Austin uses an ESSTAC belt setup, complemented by Warrior Poet Society’s 1.5″ Inner Belt. The outer belt stays secure without excess movement, a critical feature for rapid gear access and comfort during high-mobility events.
• Pouches: For magazine pouches, he uses ESSTAC pistol mag pouches, which he’s found reliable. For rifle mag pouches, he initially experimented with G-Code before settling on ESSTAC for a consistent setup. Key advice here is to test different options and understand any break-in periods required, especially for rifle pouches which may need a little extra flexibility for smooth reloads.

2. Holster Setup

• Austin’s choice of holster also comes from G-Code, a trusted brand known for quality and adaptability in tactical sports. He’s amassed a variety of G-Code holsters and accessories, allowing for easy customization. For new competitors, investing in a modular holster system can be useful, especially when changing firearms or modifying belt configurations as preferences develop.

3. Plate Carrier and Armor Plates

• Carrier: Austin’s plate carrier is also from ESSTAC, designed for robust support and comfort. He modified his carrier personally to ensure a better fit, underscoring the importance of a snug, tailored fit for comfort, especially when running or during high-intensity physical challenges.
• Armor Plates: Austin originally used AR500 steel plates, known for durability but heavy. Later, he custom-made plates with yoga mat layers for comfort, creating a hybrid soft-hard plate that offers mobility without sacrificing protection. Custom or hybrid plates can reduce the harsh impacts, like those felt during burpees, where heavy plates can bruise or knock into your body.

4. Primary Weapon: Rifle Setup

• Rifle Model: Austin’s primary competition rifle is a Bravo Company Manufacturing (BCM) MK2 chambered in .223 Wylde with a 16-inch ballistic advantage barrel and a 1:8 twist. This setup is a balanced choice for precision and speed, performing well at mid-range with common .223/5.56 ammunition.
• Sights: Austin uses offset iron sights on his BCM, initially required by rule and kept for versatility. For optics, he relies on a Vortex PST Gen 2 Viper 1-6x scope, which provides clarity and accuracy at various ranges. The reticle is a simple MIL reticle, avoiding complex “Christmas tree” patterns to keep a clear field of view, aiding in quick shot placement and effective range estimation.
• Trigger: Austin uses a CMC single-stage trigger across his rifles, customizing the flat face to eliminate unwanted trigger kick-off. A high-quality trigger with a smooth pull can drastically improve shot timing and accuracy under stress, making it a worthwhile upgrade for competitors.

5. Additional Rifle Accessories

• Magpul BAD Lever: Used to improve speed when handling the bolt, a BAD lever allows shooters to lock back the bolt and drop it with their trigger finger, increasing efficiency in malfunctions and reloads.
• Grip and Stock: Austin’s rifle includes a B5 Systems pistol grip, chosen for its ergonomic fit, enhancing weapon control during rapid shooting or quick transitions.
• Custom Sling: A sling is crucial for mobility, and Austin’s is custom-built with bungee sections to reduce the strain of carrying the rifle hands-free. The added flexibility in the bungee can also improve rifle handling in dynamic movements like sprinting or scaling obstacles.

6. Pistol Setup

• Custom Adjustments: Austin’s pistol features several customizations, including his own stippling on the grip for better hold and a modified thumb safety, adjusted to fit his personal grip and comfort preferences. These modifications help with recoil management and provide a consistent point of control.

Why Customization Matters in Tactical Competitions

For The Tactical Games, versatility is essential. Austin’s approach to customization speaks volumes about the importance of tailoring gear to fit individual needs. From modifying “armor” plates to ensure comfort in high-impact activities to adjusting triggers and safeties, these custom touches are critical in minimizing downtime and maximizing efficiency. Beginners should consider that while high-quality gear is essential, making personal modifications based on hands-on experience will often yield the best results.

Gear Recommendations for New Competitors

For those just starting in The Tactical Games, here’s a quick checklist inspired by Austin’s setup:

1. Battle Belt with a reliable retention system for pouches and holsters (consider brands like ESSTAC or G-Code).
2. Plate Carrier that’s both comfortable and secure—ensure a snug fit to prevent chafing.
3. Lightweight Armor Plates or padded plates to mitigate impact during movement-heavy events.
4. Rifle in .223 Wylde with a quality scope like the Vortex PST Gen 2 for a balance of close- and mid-range capabilities.
5. Single-Stage Trigger for responsive, clean shots; consider brands like CMC for reliability.
6. Custom Sling that supports active movement, ideally with some bungee flexibility.

Final Takeaway

Austin Aylward’s insights provide a comprehensive look into the gear required for success in The Tactical Games, highlighting the blend of endurance, precision, and adaptability that competitors need. While specific brands and products are popular choices, customization and personal adjustments are equally important. New competitors should focus on reliable, high-quality gear and be ready to modify and adapt their setup as they gain experience. Embrace a setup that complements your skills, and remember: the best gear is the one you’ve tested and trust to perform under pressure.