These uniforms are, in essence, a RAID modified SOG type uniform. I have a RAID 5 version that I have been wearing lately and I must say that I love the utility of it. The pockets are accessible while wearing LBV's or, if you are wearing an RBA or RAV type vest, the arm pockets are easily reached (you don't put hard items in your chest pockets when wearing armor as it chafes or causes point injuries over time). RAID uniforms are available from Specwargear.com (if you don't mind waiting because our boys on the front get dibs). I had mine made from a standard BDU (which cost about $65 from a tailor + the cost of the BDU). There are lots of options available in putting a custom RAID together. Personally, I like most of the features of the new ACU, except the elbow and knee pockets for the pads. In addition, there are other features I would add the would enhance the combat utility of the uniform (like retaining straps for knee and elbow pads, adjustable bungee trouser blousers, velcroed main pocket flaps for the trousers, etc.) The new ACU seems to be a good meld of the most useful features of the RAID jacket and trousers. The digital pattern also seems to be a good mix of terrain types we would be expected to deploy to. I'm sure our personal opinion will dictate how <i><b>we</b></i> choose to adopt this new development. However, our troops will not have that choice, so their stories will be the ones I am most interested in.
TheRev
