Tactical Gear 101: Frequently Asked Questions

By Carcajou Tactical | Built in Canada. Trusted in the Field.

Whether you’re active duty, a civilian enthusiast, or somewhere in between, understanding tactical gear is key to building a loadout that works. At Carcajou Tactical, we believe knowledge is as essential as quality gear — so here’s a straight-talking FAQ covering the fundamentals of tactical equipment.

1. What is the primary definition of tactical gear, and for whom was it originally designed?

Tactical gear refers to specialized equipment engineered to support the demanding roles of military personnel, law enforcement, and private security operators. Its purpose is to enhance mission effectiveness, survivability, and adaptability in high-risk environments. At Carcajou Tactical, we design with these professionals in mind — with gear that performs under pressure.

2. Can civilians legally wear tactical gear? Any important considerations?

Yes, civilians can legally own and wear tactical gear in most jurisdictions. However, ethical and legal awareness is essential. Carcajou Tactical encourages all users to avoid impersonation of law enforcement or military personnel by steering clear of specific uniforms, insignia, or badges. Responsible ownership and use are core to the tactical community.

3. What types of tactical gear are generally restricted for civilian use, and why?

Two common restrictions include:

Impersonating uniforms (complete with badges or insignia), which are illegal due to the risk of falsely representing military or police authority.
Certain body armor, especially Level III or IV plates, may be restricted or require permits in regions like Ontario or specific U.S. states due to their advanced protective capabilities.

At Carcajou Tactical, we advise our customers to always check local laws before purchasing any protective or regulated equipment.

4. What’s the difference between military and outdoor gear in terms of durability and weight?

Military-grade gear — like the chest rigs and pouches we offer at Carcajou Tactical — is built to withstand combat, using materials such as 1000D Cordura and Kevlar, often making it heavier but significantly more durable.
Outdoor gear, on the other hand, favors lightweight, breathable fabrics for recreational use, sacrificing some protection in exchange for comfort over long distances.

5. What is MOLLE and how does it work in tactical gear?

MOLLE stands for Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment. This system uses PALS webbing — stitched rows of nylon loops — allowing users to attach modular pouches, IFAKs, ammo carriers, and more.
At Carcajou Tactical, nearly all our gear — from belt kits to plate carriers — is fully MOLLE-compatible, enabling users to build mission-specific setups with ease.

6. How did Kevlar impact the evolution of tactical vests?

The invention of Kevlar in the 1970s was a game-changer. It enabled the development of soft body armor that offered ballistic protection without the heavy bulk of metal plates.
Modern Carcajou Tactical vests combine lightweight Kevlar layers with optional hard plate compatibility, offering flexibility, protection, and comfort for both professional operators and prepared civilians.

7. What’s a key feature in tactical boots that enhances field performance?

High-traction rubber outsoles with deep, aggressive lugs are a must. These soles provide exceptional grip on unstable terrain — from mud to gravel — ensuring sure footing even in the worst conditions.
Carcajou Tactical recommends pairing boots with water-resistant uppers and shock-absorbing midsoles to tackle long missions or hikes without fatigue.

8. What are the four main categories of tactical gear?

Tactical gear falls into four primary categories:

Personal Protective Gear: Body armor, helmets, gloves, eye protection, and boots.
Combat Gear: Weapons, chest rigs, slings, concealment cloaks, and knife sheaths.
Communication Gear: Radios, headsets, and digital transmission tools.
Navigation Equipment: GPS units, compasses, rangefinders, and admin pouches.

At Carcajou Tactical, our gear systems are built to integrate seamlessly across all four categories.

9. What’s the difference between hard and soft body armor in tactical vests?

Hard body armor uses ceramic or steel plates to protect against rifle-caliber rounds. It’s bulky, but necessary in high-threat environments.
Soft body armor is lightweight and flexible, typically protecting against handgun rounds and designed for low-profile wear.

Carcajou Tactical vests support both armor types, offering versatility for any operational requirement.

10. Why is proper care and maintenance of tactical gear important?

Your gear is only as good as the condition it’s in. Without proper care:

Materials can degrade, especially nylon and Velcro
Straps can loosen or fail under stress
Water damage and UV exposure can weaken ballistic materials

Carcajou Tactical recommends regular inspections, proper cleaning (no harsh detergents!), and dry, cool storage away from sunlight to extend your gear’s lifespan and reliability.

Final Thought from Carcajou Tactical

Tactical gear isn’t just for show — it’s for survival, performance, and readiness. Whether you’re a soldier, officer, or civilian with a tactical mindset, choosing the right gear (and knowing how to use it) is the difference between success and failure.

Carcajou Tactical. Field-Tested. Mission-Built. Made in Canada.

Tactical Gear 101: Frequently Asked Questions