Tactical gear is a vast and fascinating world, but let’s be honest—it can feel like learning a new language. From MOLLE systems to ballistic plates, the terminology can be overwhelming.
That’s why we’ve created this ultimate guide. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, this A-Z glossary of 140 tactical gear terms will help you navigate the jargon, understand the essentials, and make informed decisions about your gear.
Let’s dive in!
How to Use This Guide
This guide is organized into categories to make it easy to find what you’re looking for. Feel free to skim through or jump to the sections that interest you most.
Each term is briefly explained to give you a clear understanding without overwhelming you with details.
General Tactical Gear Terms
Let’s start with the basics. These are the terms you’ll hear most often when discussing tactical gear:
- Tactical Gear: Equipment designed for high-performance use in demanding situations.
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Tactical Equipment: Tools and accessories used in tactical scenarios.
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Tactical Clothing: Functional apparel designed for durability and performance.
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Tactical Accessories: Add-ons like pouches, holsters, and slings.
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Tactical Backpacks: Durable bags designed to carry gear efficiently.
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Tactical Vests: Protective or load-bearing vests used in combat or outdoor activities.
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Tactical Belts: Sturdy belts designed to hold gear like holsters and pouches.
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Tactical Footwear: Boots and shoes built for rugged terrain.
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Tactical Gloves: Protective gloves for handling gear or weapons.
- Tactical Helmets: Head protection for high-risk situations.
Clothing and Apparel
Tactical clothing is all about functionality and durability. Here’s what you need to know:
11. Tactical Pants: Reinforced pants with extra pockets and durable fabric.
12. Tactical Shirts: Moisture-wicking shirts often with hidden pockets.
13. Tactical Jackets: Weather-resistant outerwear designed for tactical use.
14. Tactical Hoodies: Comfortable yet functional hoodies for tactical scenarios.
15. Tactical Boots: Footwear designed for rugged terrain and long treks.
16. Tactical Socks: Durable, moisture-wicking socks for comfort.
17. Tactical Underwear: Base layers designed for performance and comfort.
18. Tactical Base Layers: The foundation of your outfit, designed to regulate body temperature.
19. Tactical Rain Gear: Waterproof clothing for wet conditions.
20. Tactical Cold Weather Gear: Insulated clothing for extreme cold.
Protective Gear
When it comes to safety, these terms are essential:
21. Body Armor: Protective gear designed to stop bullets or shrapnel.
22. Ballistic Plates: Inserts for plate carriers that provide bullet resistance.
23. Plate Carriers: Vests designed to hold ballistic plates.
24. Bulletproof Vests: Protective vests that stop bullets.
25. Tactical Shields: Portable shields used for protection in high-risk situations.
26. Riot Gear: Protective equipment used in crowd control.
27. Gas Masks: Masks designed to protect against harmful gases.
28. Ear Protection: Gear to protect hearing during loud activities like shooting.
29. Face Protection: Masks or shields to protect the face.
30. Neck Gaiter: A versatile piece of fabric that protects the neck and face.
Bags and Carrying Systems
Carrying your gear efficiently is key. Here’s what you need to know:
31. MOLLE System: Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment, a webbing system for attaching gear.
32. Tactical Backpacks: Durable bags designed for carrying heavy loads.
33. Assault Packs: Smaller backpacks designed for quick missions.
34. Hydration Packs: Backpacks with built-in water bladders.
35. Duffel Bags: Large bags for transporting gear.
36. Range Bags: Bags designed to carry firearms and accessories to the range.
37. Medical Bags: Bags equipped with first aid supplies.
38. Drop Leg Bags: Pouches attached to the thigh for easy access.
39. Utility Bags: Versatile bags for carrying tools and gear.
40. Gear Bags: General-purpose bags for organizing and transporting equipment.
Weapon Accessories
If you’re into firearms, these terms will come in handy:
41. Tactical Scopes: Optics for improved accuracy.
42. Red Dot Sights: Reflex sights that project a red dot for aiming.
43. Laser Sights: Devices that project a laser beam for targeting.
44. Flashlights: Portable lights for illumination.
45. Weapon Lights: Lights attached to firearms for low-light situations.
46. Tactical Slings: Straps for carrying firearms.
47. Bipods: Supports that stabilize firearms during shooting.
48. Foregrips: Handles attached to the front of firearms for better control.
49. Magazine Pouches: Holders for extra ammo magazines.
50. Speed Loaders: Devices that quickly load ammunition into firearms.
Communication and Navigation
Staying connected and on track is crucial:
51. Tactical Radios: Communication devices for the field.
52. Headsets: Audio devices for clear communication.
53. Earpieces: Small devices for private communication.
54. GPS Devices: Tools for navigation and location tracking.
55. Compasses: Traditional tools for finding direction.
56. Maps: Essential for navigation in unfamiliar terrain.
57. Signal Mirrors: Tools for signaling for help.
58. Whistles: Simple devices for attracting attention.
59. Night Vision Goggles: Gear for seeing in the dark.
60. Thermal Imaging Devices: Tools for detecting heat signatures.
Survival and Utility Gear
Being prepared means having the right tools:
61. Multi-tools: Compact gadgets with multiple functions.
62. Tactical Pens: Writing tools that double as self-defense weapons.
63. Paracord: Strong, lightweight rope for survival situations.
64. Fire Starters: Tools for starting fires in any condition.
65. Survival Knives: Durable knives for outdoor survival.
66. Water Purification: Tools for making water safe to drink.
67. Emergency Blankets: Lightweight blankets for warmth in emergencies.
68. First Aid Kits: Essential for treating injuries.
69. Trauma Kits: Advanced medical kits for serious injuries.
70. Tourniquets: Devices to stop severe bleeding.
Training and Simulation
Practice makes perfect:
71. Tactical Training: Exercises to improve skills and readiness.
72. Airsoft Gear: Equipment for simulated combat.
73. Paintball Gear: Gear for paintball games.
74. Training Ammo: Non-lethal ammunition for practice.
75. Dummy Rounds: Inert rounds for training purposes.
76. Tactical Drills: Exercises to improve tactical skills.
77. Simulation Gear: Equipment for realistic training scenarios.
78. Reactive Targets: Targets that react when hit.
79. Shooting Gloves: Gloves for better grip and protection.
80. Training Vests: Vests used in tactical training exercises.
Miscellaneous
Here are some additional terms you might encounter:
81. Camouflage Patterns: Designs for blending into the environment.
82. Concealed Carry: Carrying a weapon in a hidden manner.
83. Duty Gear: Equipment used by law enforcement officers.
84. Field Gear: Gear used in outdoor or combat situations.
85. Load-Bearing Equipment: Gear designed to carry heavy loads.
86. Modular Systems: Customizable gear setups.
87. Quick Release Systems: Mechanisms for quickly removing gear.
88. Tactical Patches: Emblems or insignia worn on gear.
89. Velcro Panels: Surfaces for attaching patches or accessories.
90. Zipper Pulls: Extensions for easier zipper use.
Brands and Manufacturers
Knowing the brands can help you make informed choices:
91. 5.11 Tactical: Known for durable clothing and gear.
92. Blackhawk: A leader in tactical equipment.
93. Condor Outdoor: Affordable and reliable tactical gear.
94. Crye Precision: High-end tactical apparel and equipment.
95. Eagle Industries: Specializes in military-grade gear.
96. First Spear: Innovators in modular tactical systems.
97. G-Code: Known for holsters and firearm accessories.
98. Haley Strategic: High-performance tactical gear.
99. Maxpedition: Durable bags and carrying solutions.
100. Oakley SI: Tactical eyewear and apparel.
Materials and Technologies
Understanding the materials can help you choose the right gear:
101. Cordura Fabric: Durable and abrasion-resistant.
102. Nylon Webbing: Strong material used in straps and belts.
103. Kevlar: Lightweight and bullet-resistant.
104. Ballistic Nylon: Heavy-duty fabric for protection.
105. Ripstop Fabric: Prevents tears from spreading.
106. Waterproof Materials: Keeps gear dry in wet conditions.
107. Breathable Fabrics: Allows airflow to keep you cool.
108. Moisture-Wicking: Pulls sweat away from the skin.
109. Anti-Microbial Treatments: Prevents odor-causing bacteria.
110. UV Protection: Shields against harmful ultraviolet rays.
Tactical Gear for Specific Uses
Different scenarios call for different gear:
111. Law Enforcement Gear: Designed for police officers.
112. Military Gear: Built for combat and durability.
113. Hunting Gear: Includes camouflage and specialized tools.
114. Outdoor Survival Gear: Essential for wilderness adventures.
115. EDC (Everyday Carry) Gear: Compact items for daily use.
116. Tactical Gear for Women: Designed to fit women’s needs.
117. Tactical Gear for Kids: Smaller gear for young enthusiasts.
118. Tactical Gear for Dogs: Protective gear for K9 units.
119. Tactical Gear for Airsoft: Equipment for simulated combat.
120. Tactical Gear for Paintball: Gear for paintball games.
Maintenance and Care
Taking care of your gear ensures it lasts longer:
121. Gear Cleaning: Regular cleaning to maintain performance.
122. Gear Maintenance: Routine checks and repairs.
123. Waterproofing: Protecting gear from moisture damage.
124. Repairing Tactical Gear: Fixing small issues before they worsen.
125. Storing Tactical Gear: Proper storage to prevent wear and tear.
Advanced Tactical Gear Terms
For the pros, here are some advanced terms:
126. Ballistic Helmet: A helmet designed to stop bullets.
127. Plate Carrier Cummerbund: The side panels of a plate carrier.
128. Drop Leg Platform: A holster system attached to the thigh.
129. Chest Rig: A lightweight alternative to a plate carrier.
130. Battle Belt: A heavy-duty belt for carrying gear.
131. Suppressor Cover: A cover for firearm suppressors.
132. Magazine Clamp: A device to hold multiple magazines together.
133. Sling Mount: Attachments for firearm slings.
134. Rail System: A mounting system for firearm accessories.
135. Quick Detach (QD) Mount: A fast-release mounting system.
Niche Tactical Gear
Here are some specialized terms:
136. Tactical Lanyard: A cord for securing small items.
137. Battery Pouches: Holders for spare batteries.
138. Admin Pouch: A pouch for organizing small items.
139. Dump Pouch: A pouch for quickly storing empty magazines.
140. IR Strobe Light: A light for signaling in infrared.
Conclusion: Your Tactical Gear Knowledge is Complete!
Congratulations! You’ve just navigated through 140 essential tactical gear terms. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, this guide is your go-to resource for understanding the world of tactical gear.
Now that you’re armed with this knowledge, you’re ready to make informed decisions, upgrade your gear, and tackle any challenge that comes your way. Stay safe, stay prepared, and keep exploring!
