What impact does your gear have on your performance?

[zml342]

Yesterday while practicing reloads I was struggling to get a proper index on my mag. I currently use a Fobus paddle mag pouch that I bought when I first started shooting. My question for all of you is are my struggles due to the gear that I am using or is it that I simply need to work more on my technique?

[orionz06]

Brands aside, a proper index is important. In this instance, if the gear is not letting you do something right, get new gear.

[zml342]

I'm definitely going to look into getting some new mag pouches. In the mean time I'm continuing to practice my reloads and making sure that I fully clear the garment and get that proper index.

Thanks for the advice.

[VolGrad]

I like to dog Fobus as much as the next guy but if that's what you've been using (and are used to) I doubt it was making you miss your index. The mag was in the same place it always is, right?

I do think gear makes a difference though ... to a point. Gear doesn't make you better but quality gear can allow you to reach your potential rather than holding you back.

[orionz06]

Some of the Fobus pouches I have seen cover too much of the mag so it likely may have been the gear.

[MikeyC]

Up to a point there is a direct connection between better gear and better performance. There was a massive change when I started in IDPA using a Mirage beltslide holster, and when I upgraded to a Safariland. Good gear will only get you so far if you inherently suck, but if your skills are borderline cheap gear can break you down.

[jetfire]

That's actually a complicated question. I really believe that good gear is worth what you pay for it, but with the caveat that your gear can't shoot for you. So if you're at a point where it's obvious that your gear is impeding your performance, get new gear.

Also, it depends on what you're shooting. If you're shooting USPSA or IDPA then you should definitely get the best gear; but if all you ever shoot is your carry gear, then getting different mag pouches and holsters just for range work doesn't make a lot of sense.

[zml342]

I originally bought the Fobus gear around the same time I bought my Serpa. Obviously this was long before I knew better. I have since moved on to better holsters, but have yet to upgrade the mag pouches.

I have tried positioning the mag pouch at both the 9:30 and 8:30 positions and have some problems at both locations. 50% of the time I get a good index and a proper reload and the other 50% I completely fumble.

That's actually a complicated question. I really believe that good gear is worth what you pay for it, but with the caveat that your gear can't shoot for you. So if you're at a point where it's obvious that your gear is impeding your performance, get new gear.

Also, it depends on what you're shooting. If you're shooting USPSA or IDPA then you should definitely get the best gear; but if all you ever shoot is your carry gear, then getting different mag pouches and holsters just for range work doesn't make a lot of sense.

Caleb, while I think my shooting is improving I'm wondering (with regards to reloads) if my gear is hindering my performance some. I have never tried other mag pouches so I comment as to whether or not this is true. Most of my shooting is done at the range as an EDC set up, but I have started getting into IDPA and taking more classes.

I think I will order new mag pouches to see if that helps and continue to work reloads into my dry fire routine to ensure that I can get a proper index every time.

[rsa-otc]

I agree, quality gear can make a big difference. BUT, what has not been discussed is what about your current gear is preventing you from achieving your index. Magdalene too closely spaced, held to close to the body, or to far away? How does this particular piece of quality gear address that particular problem? With out answering those questions, you may spend a bunch of money only to face the same problems.

Maybe work with a instructor /coach who could tell you how your index is falling apart and suggest a piece of quality gear that would address those issues. This maybe cheaper & less frustrating in the long run.

[rsa-otc]

I agree, quality gear can make a big difference. BUT, what has not been discussed is what about your current gear is preventing you from achieving your index. Magdalene too closely spaced, held to close to the body, or to far away? How does this particular piece of quality gear address that particular problem? With out answering those questions, you may spend a bunch of money only to face the same problems.

Maybe work with a instructor /coach who could tell you how your index is falling apart and suggest a piece of quality gear that would address those issues. This maybe cheaper & less frustrating in the long run.

I ment mags not Magdalene. Phone changed word and now I can't edit the post.