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Overt or Covert Schizo Scenarios | Civilian Principles Podcast: Episode 5

Civilian Principles
Published on August 6, 2024
Category: Tactical & Gear
Duration: 134:37

This podcast episode delves into the nuances of overt versus covert loadouts, emphasizing that camouflage and threat projection are key in both. Participants discuss how hunting gear, earth tones, and even M81 Woodland camo can serve covert purposes by blending into civilian environments, while overt loadouts should act as a deterrent. The core principle is to be purposeful and adaptable, considering the environment and potential threats to avoid becoming an easily identifiable target.

Tags

Covert Loadouts
Overt Loadouts
Camouflage Principles
Threat Projection
"Gray Man" Concept
Hunting Gear
Earth Tone Camo
M81 Woodland Camo
Multicam
Riot Preparedness
Civil Unrest Gear
Loadout Selection
Situational Awareness

Quick Summary

The distinction between overt and covert loadouts hinges on camouflage and threat projection. Overt gear aims to deter, while covert gear prioritizes blending in. Hunting gear and earth tones can serve covert purposes, while M81 Woodland camo is now often seen as fashion. The key is to be purposeful, adapt to your environment, and avoid becoming an easily identifiable target, whether you're overt or covert.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Hosts
  2. 03:04Overt vs. Covert Loadouts Discussion Begins
  3. 04:08Mixed Overt/Covert Loadouts & Hunting Gear
  4. 07:04Effectiveness of Real Tree Camo
  5. 10:00Camouflage in Urban vs. Rural Environments
  6. 11:31Carhartt as a Civilian Tactical Brand
  7. 12:17Earth Tones for Concealment
  8. 14:00Common Camo Patterns & Perception
  9. 16:44M81 Woodland Camo in Society
  10. 19:00Real Tree for Evasion & Low Profile
  11. 20:36Threat Projection & The Gray Man
  12. 23:37Vehicle Identification & Stickers
  13. 26:04Covert Loadouts as Camouflage
  14. 29:06Rethinking Overt vs. Covert Loadouts
  15. 31:35Camouflage for Enemy Forces
  16. 35:02Modifying Tactical Gear for Covertness
  17. 38:17Backpacks and Concealment
  18. 38:29Making Yourself a Hard Target
  19. 39:15Modern Covert Loadout Perceptions
  20. 41:24When to Use Overt vs. Covert Loadouts
  21. 43:14Personal Experience with Gang Violence
  22. 44:37Covert vs. Overt as Camouflage
  23. 46:15Avoiding Dangerous Situations
  24. 48:49Covert & Overt as Stages of Crisis
  25. 50:48Overt & Covert are the Same: Camouflage
  26. 51:07Purposeful Loadout Selection
  27. 53:48Show of Force vs. Evacuation
  28. 55:03Multicam Perception: Police vs. Civilian
  29. 56:44The "Easy Loot Drop" Mentality
  30. 61:03Camouflage Based on Location
  31. 63:07Everyone Can Be a Threat
  32. 64:31Perception of Full Kit Loadouts
  33. 66:07Purpose of Overt Loadouts
  34. 67:37Purpose of Covert Loadouts
  35. 69:23Perception of Full Kit in Public
  36. 71:00Assessing Threats in Public
  37. 73:49The Full Kit Loadout in Public
  38. 75:02Mindset of Potential Threats

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main difference between overt and covert loadouts?

Overt loadouts are visible and designed to project capability and act as a deterrent, often involving visible tactical gear like plate carriers and visible magazines. Covert loadouts prioritize camouflage and blending into the environment, aiming to be unremarkable and avoid signaling intent or capability, making the wearer a difficult target.

How can hunting gear be used for covert preparedness?

Hunting gear, such as a turkey vest, can serve as a covert option because it's less conspicuous than tactical chest rigs but still allows for carrying essential items. Patterns like Real Tree camouflage are also highly effective for concealment in natural environments and less likely to draw suspicion in public.

What is the 'Gray Man' concept in tactical preparedness?

The 'Gray Man' concept focuses on being unremarkable and blending seamlessly into the civilian environment. This involves avoiding overt tactical signaling, such as specific tactical brands, excessive patches, or tactical-looking gear, and instead opting for common, everyday clothing that doesn't draw attention.

Why is camouflage important for both overt and covert loadouts?

Camouflage is crucial for both overt and covert loadouts as its primary purpose is to provide a moment of pause or confusion for potential threats. Whether overt or covert, the goal is to manage how you are perceived, either as a deterrent or by blending in, to enhance survivability.

How does the environment influence the choice of camouflage?

The environment dictates the effectiveness of camouflage. What works in a forest (e.g., Real Tree) may not work in an urban setting. Understanding local culture and how different patterns are perceived (e.g., M81 Woodland as fashion vs. Multicam as tactical) is key to selecting appropriate gear for covert or overt applications.

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