The Problem With Buying "Cheap Tactical Gear"

Imagine being in the thick of action and relying on your gear to keep you safe, only to find that your bargain-bin purchases are literally falling apart at the seams. It's a nightmare scenario, and one you shouldn't let happen. But how?

By avoiding cheap tactical gear!

Today we're going over the hidden truths behind the allure of low-cost tactical equipment and guiding you towards making decisions that won't leave you vulnerable when it matters most.

Understanding Tactical Gear

Tactical gear is all about being ready for anything. It's the equipment used by soldiers, law enforcement, and outdoor enthusiasts to stay safe and efficient.

This gear isn't just any ordinary equipment. It's designed to withstand tough conditions, heavy use, and critical situations where failure isn't an option.

Unlike regular clothing or gear, tactical items are built for performance and durability. They need to handle extreme weather, rough terrain, and intense physical activity.

The materials used are stronger and more resistant to wear and tear than what you'd find in everyday items. This is because every piece of tactical gear has a specific purpose.

It can be a backpack that can carry all your essentials without breaking. Or boots that provide support and grip on slippery surfaces.

It can also be clothing that keeps you camouflaged and protected. Each item plays a key role. For people in professions where safety and efficiency are top priorities, quality tactical gear is non-negotiable.

But it's not just for professionals. Outdoor enthusiasts who hike, camp, or participate in extreme sports also rely on this gear for protection and functionality.

The right gear can make a significant difference in performance and safety, no matter the environment or activity. Tactical gear is a critical support system for those who face the unpredictable, demanding the best in performance, reliability, and durability.

The True Cost of "Cheap" Tactical Gear

Let's first make an important note: "cheap" tactical gear is not cheap just because of a low price. There are plenty of high quality tactical brands out there at affordable price points. However, the "cheap" gear we are discussing today is usually the lowest priced gear available.

When shopping for tactical gear, it's tempting to go for the cheapest options, especially as a first-timer. However, the lower price tag often comes with hidden costs that are not worth the initial savings. Let's break down why cheap tactical gear can end up costing you more in the long run, in terms of money, comfort, and safety.

Material Quality

The materials used in tactical gear play a huge role in its performance and durability. Cheap gear often uses lower-quality materials that can wear out quickly and tear easily. This gear is often made overseas in countries with low quality control standards and/or subpar manufacturing materials..

High-quality gear is made with strong, durable materials designed to withstand tough conditions and heavy use. Investing in gear made from better materials means your equipment won't need frequent replacements. This ultimately saves you money over time as well.

Personal Comfort

Comfort is key when you're wearing any piece of equipment for a long time. Cheap tactical gear often cuts corners on ergonomics and fit.

This can lead to discomfort, distractions, and even injuries if the gear doesn't support your body correctly. High-quality gear is designed with the user's comfort in mind. It makes the gear more pleasant to use and enhances your ability to perform when it matters most.

Pressure Points and Weight Distribution

Properly designed tactical gear distributes weight evenly and avoids creating pressure points. Cheap options might not consider these factors. This leads to gear that feels heavier than it is or causes pain after being worn for a while. Poorly designed plate carriers, for example, often add excess and unnecessary stress on the shoulders 

Good gear is designed to spread out the load, making it feel lighter and more comfortable. This is especially important for gear like backpacks or plate carriers that you wear or carry for extended periods. Ensuring even weight distribution and reducing pressure points can prevent pain and fatigue.

Performance and Reliability Concerns

The main job of tactical gear is to perform under pressure. Cheap gear might not hold up when you need it most.

Imagine a backpack that rips open during a hike or armor that falls through your plate carrier after just a short sprint. These are not just minor inconveniences. They can be major setbacks.

Quality gear is tested to ensure it can handle extreme conditions and use. You can rely on it to do its job, whether that's protecting you from the elements or ensuring your equipment is securely stored.

Gear Malfunction

Nothing is more frustrating, or potentially dangerous, than gear that fails when you're relying on it. Cheap tactical gear is more likely to have issues like broken zippers or snaps that come loose. It can even have seams that split.

Each of these malfunctions can compromise your safety and the effectiveness of your mission or activity. High-quality gear, designed with attention to detail and stronger materials, greatly reduces the chances of these failures.

The Hidden Costs of Going Cheap

One of the biggest issues with cheap gear is that it doesn't last. You might find yourself replacing it much sooner than you expected.

This means money spent and more time wasted. High-quality gear might be more expensive upfront, but it tends to last much longer. Also, cheaper gear might need more repairs or maintenance to keep it usable, adding to its overall cost.

Customization Options

Another benefit of investing in better gear is the ability to customize it to fit your needs. High-quality tactical gear often comes with options for adjustments and additions. 

This means you can tailor it to suit your specific requirements, making it more effective and comfortable. Cheap gear often lacks these customization options. That means you have to make do with what you get, even if it's not quite right.

Risk to Safety

The most significant cost of choosing cheap gear could be to your safety. Whether it's protective clothing that doesn't protect well enough or equipment that breaks under pressure, the risk isn't worth the initial savings. Body armor that is falling through your plate carrier doesn't serve you quite well.

Quality gear provides peace of mind, knowing that it will perform reliably in critical situations.

How to Choose Quality Tactical Gear

Picking the right tactical gear is about knowing what to look for to get the best value and performance for your money.

First, pay attention to the materials. Berry Amendment Compliant gear is made fully in the USA and often has higher manufacturing and material quality than overseas and imported manufacturers. Law enforcement agencies commonly prefer and seek US-made gear.

Next, consider the brand's reputation. Brands that are well-respected in the tactical community are usually reliable choices. They've earned their reputation by making gear that professionals trust. Do they make their own gear? Is it made in the USA? Do they supply any government agencies? These are some broad questions to explore when looking at tactical companies.

Also, don't forget to read user reviews. They can give you real-world insights into how the gear performs under pressure.

Tactical Gear Brands

There are several reputable brands known for their quality tactical gear. Look for those with a history of supplying gear to law enforcement, military, and outdoor enthusiasts. These brands pride themselves on the reliability and durability of their products.

They also offer warranties or guarantees, showing they stand behind their gear.

Finding the Best Value

Finding the best value doesn't always mean going for the cheapest option. That also doesn't mean you have to spend a huge amount for quality gear. Consider the gear's performance, durability, and how well it meets your specific needs.

High quality gear is almost always going to cost more than a cheaper budget option you may find on a site like Amazon or that you saw in a "tacticool" social media ad. However, spending a bit more upfront can save you money in the long run by avoiding replacements and repairs. Look for gear that offers the right balance of quality, functionality, and price to get the most bang for your buck.

A brand we believe aligns strongly with these traits is Defense Mechanisms. Defense Mechanisms handcrafts a massive variety of tactical products from plate carriers to belts to apparel. All of their gear is made 100% in the USA, and most importantly, available at a cost-friendly price.  

A Long-Term Perspective

When you choose high-quality tactical gear, you're not just buying equipment. You're making an investment in your safety, performance, and peace of mind.

Knowing your gear can withstand the challenges you face gives you confidence. This confidence allows you to focus on the task at hand, rather than worrying about your equipment.

High-quality gear also offers better functionality. It's made to perform well in the situations for which it was designed.

This could mean more efficient storage in a backpack. It could mean better use from your body armor. Or it could be more effective camouflage in a uniform.

When your gear works as it should, you can do your job or enjoy your activity with fewer hindrances.

And don't forget the added comfort factor for future uses. Comfort might not seem like a big deal at first glance, but over time it makes a big difference.

Don't Bother With Cheap Tactical Gear

While the allure of saving money with cheap tactical gear is strong, the true costs far outweigh the initial savings.

At Top Armor, we're not just another armor dealer; we're your partners in protection. Our armor partners, LTC and HighCom Armor, have been making high-quality armor for decades. Their proven track record of performance and reliability has earned the trust of hundreds of government agencies around the globe; now we're bringing you the same top-quality armor.

Get in touch today to find out more about us and our brands!