Overview
Recommended Gear List: Many people have asked “what gear do I need to get started?” In order to save time and money, we’ve added the list and links below. We will continue to expand and update this list.
Within the program we will show you why this gear will benefit you, and the options that are out there, but if you have any questions please contact us.
The products in this list are not mandatory. There is a plethora of gear choices and our only standard is that your gear is safe. This is simply an example of choices that will work for you.
Gear List
Below is a list of our recommended gear and overall requirements for each phase of the program.
PHASE 1 & 2
GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS FOR PHASE 1 AND 2
Below is a list of gear recommendations for Phases 1 and 2. Although we can supply magazine pouches and pistol holsters for classes, we recommend you invest in these items as you progress through the program and are always happy to help give recommendations on gear.
PISTOL (9mm or greater required for testing)
BELT (external duty belt with inner belt system recommended)
PISTOL HOLSTER
5 MAGAZINES (with the ability to carry at least 45 rounds on your person)
DUAL MAGAZINE MAG POUCH
FLASHLIGHT AND FLASHLIGHT HOLSTER/POUCH
Ammo – 9mm
Pistol (Secondary)
Our Recommendation:
Glock 19, Glock 17-Compact, Glock 43x, Glock 48 – Subcompact
Polished factory trigger with Zev race bar and spring kit (Leave the stock striker spring)
Trijicon HD or HD XR Tritium Sights
Pistol Light: Streamlight TLR 7A for Glock 19 or Glock 17
Pistol Light: Streamlight TLR 7 Sub for Glock 43x/48
Hand Held Flashlight: Streamlight ProTac 1L-1AA
All accessories are either in stock at Able Shepherd HQ or available for special order through Able Shepherd, please contact us for details.
Holster
Standard:
OWB: Positive Retention: Safariland GLS 578
IWB with Red Dot: Milt Sparks Versa Max 2
IWB without Red Dot: Milt Sparks Criterion
Option 2: Pistol Mounted Light
OWB w Retention: Safariland ALS for Streamlight TLR 7a
IWB: L.A.G Tactical (Liberator, Super Nova) for Streamlight TLR 7a (we are currently working on a custom holster we can recommend)
All recommended gear can be purchased at Able Shepherd HQ building, or reach out to us and we can special order most everything.
Mag Pouch
LAG Tactical M.C.S Double Pistol Mag Carrier/Flashlight Holder/ Tourniquet Holder
These can be purchased at ASHQ or individually purchased from LAG Tactical
Belt - Inner and Outer Custom System
Attack Pack/Able Shepherd Double Belt System
This belt system is sold at Able Shepherd HQ
PHASE 3 & 4
GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS FOR PHASE 3 & 4
Below is a list of gear recommendations for Phases 3 and 4. Although we can supply magazine pouches and pistol holsters for classes, we recommend you invest in these items as you progress through the program and are always happy to help give recommendations on gear.
PRIMARY AR RIFLE PLATFORM (5.56 or greater required for testing)
CHEST RIG/PLATE CARRIER WITH ABILITY TO HOLD 6 MAGAZINES
7 PRIMARY MAGAZINES
Ammo – 9mm + 5.56
AR Platform (Primary)
Our Recommendation: Daniel Defense DDM4 V7
Iron Sights: Back-up sights (Daniel Defense fixed rear) – Magpul Flip Up Front
Single Point Sling: Custom built by Able Shepherd available at Able Shepherd HQ
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- Single Point Sling Adapter End Plate (if your primary does not already have one)
Red Dot Sight: Recommended Trijicon MRO.
-
- Red or Green (Personal Preference)
- Standard or HD (Standard only a “dot” HD with a 2MOA and 68 MOA reticle)
- Lower 1/3rd mount
- (If you are looking for alternatives we can also recommend EoTech or Vortex Sparc AR )
Weapons Retention Device: R2S System from Matchpoint USA. We are currently working with suppliers and local design firms to design and create a replacement
Mounted Weapon Light: Stream Light TLR-7a
Alternative: Protac Rail Mount with Monstrum Scout Light Mount
-
- Mounted at 45º on ejection port side
All accessories are either in stock at Able Shepherd HQ or available for special order through Able Shepherd, please contact us for details.
Chest Rig / Plate Carrier
Standard Recommendations:
-
-
- Fight Light MAV 2 Piece (Tactical Tailor)
- 6 mags on chest, using 3 double stacked HSG Mag Pouches
- Nothing in front of pistol draw path
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Optional Setup:
-
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- Fight Light MAV 2 Piece (Tactical Tailor)
- 4 mags on chest, using HSG single mag pouches on your chest, with 2 AR mags carried on your belt
- Nothing in front or pistol draw path
-
Ballistic Capability:
Plate Carrier: Warrior Assault Systems DCS or V1 Carrier
Plates: Shot Stop GT2
Shooters Cut – Front
SAPI Cut – Rear
All Gear is either available at Able Shepherd HQ, or can be special ordered through Able Shepherd. Please contact us for details and questions.
GENERAL
Pistol Safe
Firearms Cleaning Kit
Our comprehensive cleaning kit provides all the necessary items to service your pistol and rifle. Can be purchased at Able Shepherd HQ or call for details.




Visit our YouTube page for gear reviews and product demonstrations.
The Custom Cut Belt
Jimmy illustrates the process of custom fitting and cutting your inner belt as part of the Able Shepherd everyday carry solution. Video demonstration of how the belt is adjusted to accommodate an inside the waistband holster as well as the very simple transition to the duty belt.
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DISCLAIMER: Always obey all firearm safety rules when handling, shooting, cleaning, and storing firearms. Only practice live fire training at shooting ranges designed and appropriate for shooting live ammunition. The tips, opinions, techniques, and strategies on this website are for training purposes only. Only practice the techniques and strategies with trained and qualified professionals in an environment suitable for such training. Techniques and strategies on this website related to security protocols should be implemented by trained professionals in conjunction with a comprehensive security scheme. Techniques and strategies related to defending against active shooters and other violent encounters are constantly changing and evolving. Able Shepherd therefore does not guarantee any outcomes. The contents of this webpage and associated photos, video, graphics, or other materials may describe or reenact active shooter scenarios or other violent scenarios which may be disturbing to some viewers. Viewer discretion is advised.