Defensive tactics with external carriers

[MEbbHD]

The department I work for just switched over to External Carriers for our vests with Molle webbing. Most officers have moved the majority of their equipment from their duty belt to the external carrier. During recent conversations with one of the defensive tactics instructors we have realized this has put an entire different spin on how you need to train and strategies that have always been used without an issue. I am curious what other agencies who use these vest have done to change their tactics and what has worked best.

[Lady Blue]

Don't expect any replies. There are some things that we do not discuss in an open forum, and anything that could impact officer safetytops the list.

[just joe]

Our vest carriers are vest carriers--they are not festooned with pockets or equipment.

[tanksoldier]

Not going to discuss the differences... but there ARE differences and users need to practice DTAC with the vest ON to find out how things are different.

[John from Maryland]

One of our officers was bounced around the Intoximeter room like a tetherball when a suspect grabbed his outer carrier. After examining the issue, we decided that awareness was probably the solution to the issue. Suspects can certainly grab for a Taser or a microphone cord. Likewise, they can grab for an exterior carrier. I would be interested to know if anyone has developed specific tactics, but recognize the need for discretion on a publicly viewed forum.

[Erik]

I'll say this, just make sure to have everyone spend some time in the mat room to make sure the placement of their gear works in practice as opposed to merely looking good in a given location. Many folks find it necessary to move stuff around.