Essential items of kit for a newby

[emilianoksa]

I have just attended my first game and learned one or two things.

I will be playing mainly CQB and will not need much to start with. I've narrowed it down to eye, mouth ears, throat and hand protection and a decent two point sling that will convert to one point.

I am not asking for specifics on any of these, but I would value your advice on some of the cheaper stuff available in the UK. I will not be economising on eye protection but for all the rest I will be looking at brands like Viper, 8Fields, Emerson, Nuprol, ACM etc. Most of it I'll probably buy from Patrol Base. I will eventually get a plate carrier and pouches when I know what gun I'm going to buy.

Is this stuff OK or can I get cheaper and/or better on ebay? Will a £15 two point sling hold 3kilos and will a £25 plate carrier hold gear securely.

I can't afford to buy the real thing, but I don't want to invest in rubbish that will let me down.

Your advice would be much appreciated.

 

[Immortal]

Save yourself a few quid and skip Patrol Base. These people are much cheaper for the same stuff: taiwangun.com

Worth looking on eBay too, loads on there especially if you're looking for something specific.

As far as if something is any good, check youtube for reviews. You'll soon get an idea of what's worth it or not.

Consider the value of anything you hang or attach to yourself and buy accordingly.

For example; I wouldn't sling a £500 rif on a £5 sling

 

[Duff]

Good pair of boots/shoes environment dependant.

 

[Gepard]

'Gun first, gear second' is generally the advise I give. Getting your own eye pro is up there though along with good boots.

If you want full head protection in one piece get a paintball mask. The Dye i4s are great and would work well in CQB. 

Surplus army gear will work fine for Airsoft. Branded items aren't always the greatest quality. If you're looking at a certain item have a look for some reviews before you buy. The ones you mentioned produce gear in the 'utter garbage' to 'good' spectrum so it's good to know what you're buying. 

Second hand is generally cheaper so have a look in the classified section to see if someone's flogging something you want. Patrolbase tends to be pretty pricey so have a look around and see if you can get it any cheaper elsewhere.

I've picked up a lot of gear on eBay so its worth having a nosey on there from time to time too.

 

[emilianoksa]

Thanks to you all for your advice.