Considered by many to be the most rigorous and highly trained military force in the world, Navy SEALs work in sometimes hopeless conditions to carry out special operations. This branch of the military was established by President John F. Kennedy to perform a variety of operations of unconventional warfare. Because of the nature of their work, Navy SEALs use only the best equipment to increase the chances of success and safe returns. Although some of this equipment is top-secret or restricted, many items that are regularly used by Navy SEALs are available to the general public.
Weapons
As a military branch, it’s natural that SEALs carry a variety of weapons. Missions can vary from quiet reconnaissance to explosive takeouts. Because of this, many styles of weapons might be in a SEAL arsenal. Common weapons include carbines or assault rifles, machine guns, concealable handguns, sniper rifles and even missile launchers. In most of the United States, this gear requires a permit to own and many deadly weapons are not available to the general public. One fun way to explore SEAL weaponry without the dangers is to purchase a plastic replica or even to build an accurate model.
Clothing
Clothing is an approachable way to explore Navy SEAL equipment since there aren’t restrictions and these items are less expensive than weapons, vehicles, or special gear. SEALs are equipped with some remarkably effective clothing, including pants and shirts made from durable materials with reinforced stitching. Even items such as socks and belts are specifically constructed for naval activities. If these basic items aren’t interesting enough, try out some tough all-weather military boots or specially-designed Luminox watches. Although some SEAL clothing is specialized for specific applications, much of it is qualified for sea, air and land. Some factors to consider for all these environments include waterproofing or water-resistance, durability through pressure and temperature differences, resistance to abrasion and dust and comfort despite any of these elements.
Vehicles
A collectors item only for the really dedicated, SEAL vehicles are among the most powerful and expensive. One famous item is the SEAL Delivery Vehicle, which is a small submarine that is designed to be as close to undetectable as possible. Some are large enough to hold up to six people, but some missions have been carried out by fewer personnel. Piloting a personal submarine isn’t a practical choice for most civilians, but replicas and models are fun ways to enjoy them anyway. However, a Humvee or desert vehicle might be a more practical collector’s item. These vehicles were designed to replace Jeeps and can be outfitted with a variety of essential equipment. For more fun, try out a Light Tactical All Terrain Vehicle, which can be as small as the average 4-wheeler or a bit larger to hold more people and equipment. Although expensive and not always practical, military vehicles are a great conversation piece.
Other Gear
Although SEAL stands for Sea, Air, Land, the successes of aquatic activities stand out as some of the more unbelievable tasks the SEALs have completed. To safely perform underwater missions, SEALs have to have the best in scuba, wetsuit and water-safe equipment to perform their jobs. SEALs rely on other items as well, though. According to one of the SEALs who participated on the raid that stopped Bin Laden, there are a number of items that SEALs carry with them almost everywhere, including water bottles, small point-and-shoot cameras, bolt cutters, tourniquets or first-aid supplies, helmets, night vision goggles, body armor, knives and multipurpose tools such as Swiss Army Knives. Although they come in handy for life-saving missions, most of these tools have everyday uses as well and are easy to obtain from stores. Even casual shops like My Gift Stop carry these kinds of useful items.
Whether you’re looking to outfit yourself in some of the most effective equipment in the world or you just want a few collector’s pieces, Navy SEAL gear is top of the line. Simple apparel items augment one’s closet with durable options, while equipment and home decor items are both interesting and educational.
