Troop Performance

Archive for the ‘Training’ Category

Infrared Tools CaTTIS

Thursday, August 25th, 2011

Here’s another product to check out at next week’s Soldier Equipment & Technology Expo & Conference at Fort Bragg. Ever have to “figure out” how to calibrate your thermal weapon sight? Infrared Tools developed the CaTTIS as an effective and consistent tool to calibrate a thermal weapon sight. It is easy to set up, easy to use, and works in all environments.

CaTTIS is available in two flavors. CaTTIS I is their original 25 meter zero target which works in all environments and uses chemical heaters for a clear aim point. CaTTIS II is the new 25 meter zero target with works in most environments and is smaller, lighter, and less expensive.

Learn more at www.InfraredTools.com.

The TACLETE

Wednesday, August 24th, 2011

The TACLETE sets the example. Although the TACLETE takes many forms he is first and foremost a public servant. Some will call him Sheep Dog, guarding his flock, protecting them from harm. Many will be relieved when he arrives, knowing the day has been saved. Ever the consummate professional, he trains his mind and body and knows his equipment inside and out. While he may not always be world class, he strives to be the best he can be; always surpassing his adversary. He incessantly seeks out any edge that could possibly save his life and ensure success. He pushes himself constantly, mastering a multitude of skills. Don’t let the name Athlete fool you, this guy’s playing field is deadly serious.

The TACLETE is adaptable. No matter his core specialty, he seeks to cross train and apply lessons learned from other fields into his day to day routine. He is prepared to operate as part of a team or alone for extended periods of time relying solely on his wits and equipment for success.

The TACLETE is dedicated. He eats, sleeps, and breathes his chosen path. He trains regularly, in all conditions. He seeks knowledge. While some will consider him a master of his craft he knows he is a life-long student.

The TACLETE is a craftsman. He uses his equipment like an artist wields a brush. He seeks out the best the market has to offer and often modifies it for his own use. He knows what works and avoids fads and gimmicks. He always has a backup. In a pinch, he can improvise or even do without.

The TACLETE is omniscient. He is the master of his domain and knows his environment. Ever vigilant, he observes, collects information, make preparations. No detail escapes his gaze no matter how small or seemingly irrelevant. He is the man on the scene before it is a scene.

The TACLETE is a chameleon. He wants to be underestimated by those around him. He has mastered the craft of camouflage and knows that it takes many forms, from selecting the right clothing and equipment in order to blend in, to how he presents himself to others. He can change his appearance in an instant by taking off his jacket, removing a ball cap and changing his gait. The quintessential Grey Man, everything he does is for effect.

The TACLETE is a Winner.

TACLETE is a portmanteau word combining Tactical and Athlete. The attributes in this depiction define the traits of a TACLETE. Natural progressions include Tacletics to describe the training of TACLETEs.

Eagle Language Training Center

Sunday, August 21st, 2011

I’m a graduate of DLI, but that was way back in the dark ages. It’s amazing what they’ve done over the last few years in the way of outreach for deploying forces. No longer is language training just the purview of Intel and SOF personnel. This video is about the Eagle Language Training Center at Fort Campbell designed to provide 16-week intensive language training courses to combat arms Soldiers.

Eagle Language Training Center from DLIFLC on Vimeo.

What’s really cool about the Eagle Language Training Center is that it offers a Cultural Immersion Center where portions of the training environment were prepared by our friends at Military Wraps. It includes a market area, common area, and a Government office which allows students to interact in a realistic environment complete with role players to practice their new language skills. Props from Tatitlek, add the finishing touches.

Long Range Services 5 Day Shooting Course

Saturday, August 13th, 2011

Learn to make long range shots from the men featured on Military Channel’s documentary, “Sniper – Inside the Crosshairs.” In a 5-day course held October 10-14, 2011 at US Training Center in Moyock, NC, Long Range Services will instruct students to make consistent, reliable long range shots. Check out the acrobat document for more info.

LRS 5-Day Event

OR – Suunto Quest

Tuesday, August 9th, 2011

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We’ve always been big fans of Suunto as they offer military versions of many of their models. The new Quest is a wristop training device and, since we assert that service members are athletes, it seems like a good fit.

Compatible with www.movescount.com, which not only offers workout programs but can store and analyze training data. Additionally, Moves Count allows you to customize what data you see on your Quest.

The Quest includes real-time heart rate monitoring, interval timers, and a stopwatch with laps, which can be recorded by tapping the touchscreen. It offers nine language options and a simple, three button interface. It is also compatible with other Suunto training tools including the Foot POD Mini for running cadence as well as speed and distance info as well as the Bike POD or Suunto GPS POD for accurate speed and distance measurement in a variety of sports.

Coming fall 2011 in Black or Orange.

www.suunto.com

OR – Fivefingers Spyridon LS

Saturday, August 6th, 2011

Coming Spring 2011 from Vibram Fivefingers is the Spyridon LS. Designed as a trail runner features a slightly beaffier sole, it comes in Olive Drab.

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www.vibramfivefingers.com

Have You Considered New Balance Minimus?

Friday, August 5th, 2011

Since the Army has banned the wear of athletic footwear that feature, “five separate, individual compartments for the toes,” a lot of folks have been looking for alternatives. Even Vibram, makers of the Five Fingers brand, knew that their shoes weren’t for everyone and developed a more more traditional alternative sole for New Balance and Merrel. While I haven’t had a chance to try out the Merrel models yet, I have had a pair of the New Balance Minimus Trail 10 running shoe since January. They run true to size and are comfortable. I generally run them without socks and they are well ventilated so guys running in areas with lots of sand or loose dirt keep that in mind. They are super lightweight and weigh about half as much as a traditional running shoe.

Tactical Distributors has the New Balance line in stock including both Men and Women’s style of the Trail running, Cross training (crossfit shoe), Wellness/Walking shoe and the Running shoe. They offer offering free overnight shipping on all NB Minimus shoes. Use promo code “FREEOVNSHIP” to receive the offer. As an added bonus, there is a 10% discount for military members.

www.tacticaldistributors.com/New-Balance

OTB Tactical Athletic Boot

Thursday, August 4th, 2011

Coming in under the radar is this new model from New Balance’s OTB Boots. The Tactical Athletic Boot (TAB) is built to AR 670-1 standards but designed for use as a trainer for events such as ruck marches, combatives training, obstacle courses, etc.

The TAB is available in Tan, with or without side zip and steel toe. They can be pre-ordered from AFMO or www.uscav.com.