Man, what I wouldn't give for just a brief interuption in water service. Just enough to quell the looks and the mumbled comments ending in words like "crazy".

Yes, one day men and women of the preparedness mindset will breathe free. <img src="/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />

Your "Butch" example is not only the antithesis of keeping a low profile, but it's also an open invitation to a whoopin' <img src="/images/graemlins/blush.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />

Yep. Right up until everyone forgets a year or two later. <img src="/images/graemlins/wink.gif" alt="" />

After Sue and Ors' comments, I'm going to try to work up a nice urban carry that gives a lot of value for the space without looking like you stepped out of a shack in Montana with your AR-15. There has to be a way (even in summer) to look socially acceptible with your gear.

Probably want to leave the body armor out of that kit <img src="/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />

In regards to another post in this thread, I feel fortunate that the nature of my work does not require me to wear a suit or carry a briefcase (both just aren't my style).

Although someone at work seeing a fixed blade knife might cause a stir <img src="/images/graemlins/laugh.gif" alt="" />

IMHO;
Another form of survival is "Survival of the Species".
I believe that going to extremes in any direction has a negative impact on species as well as Personal Survival.
Camo gear, clothing, and carrying a K-BAR knife to work or walking through Wal-Mart, makes you stand out from the crowd rather than concealing the fact that you are prepared.

It is my sad lot to carry a brief case to work. Sometimes I carry a day pack instead. Neither draws much notice or comment. Even the tan Maxpedition Monsoon bag I'm looking at might be acceptable to polite company. After all, that is the first place we have to survive. The jungle comes after.
Besides, the chicks (including my wife) don't dig guys too far from center. Within that range the is plenty of room for
individual expression and utility for survival.

worn one for a few year's ,Cruise ship's , travel and in the field.Advantage three compartment's less chance of dumping all your gear.Hidden compartmentt,passport ,cash,GUN <img src="/images/graemlins/shocked.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />Can't be cut off like a fanny pack. http://www.butler-creek.com/adtemplate.a...bcatky2=2000025

You don't roll with a utility belt? I got over caring what the coppertops thought about my "bat kit" a long time ago.
I have a 1 3/4 " wide nylon web with a spec-ops flashlight holster, multi-sheath (w/leatherman), and phone holster.
I am a systems administrator and work in an office building.
In most places in New Mexico, people live a lot closer to the ground and don't look at you too funny for having all that stuff with you. I also carry a mini RSK in my pocket at all times...
But then I wear an aramid shirt and have nomex goves in my pocket when I (am forced to) get on any commercial flight. I have actually been questioned because of my prepared state. Can you imagine... Apparently the government does not like you to be more prepared than they are (which most people in this forum are no doubt approaching).
Being pollitically correct will not help you transport your genes into the future (the ultimate goal of suvival), being prepared will.
Let them laugh and look and point... Just remember that you have NO obligation whatsoever to help them when things get sour and when it's all over you will be telling the story to your offspring while others may not be able to....
Ahh... The wisdom of the Mob... I wonder how many people who ended up in the superdome would have laughed at you in your "bat belt" before they spent a few days in the "shelter" vs how many would laugh at you afterwords?
The wisodom to make good decisions is what you get right after you go through the expereince that would have benefited from that wisdom....

I was once decked out with my multitool pouch and few others hanging from my belt. We were on our way out for the day on a sunny Saturday. I asked My Better Half if I looked stupid. To my pleasant surprise, she replied, "No, you look prepared." That's one of the many reasons we've been married 14 years.

-- Craig

The "dork" comments don't stop, but they still use my gear. Shrug. I'd rather be prepared. <img src="/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />

-- Craig

New-be here loves this EDC string...
Blending-in is pretty easy here in the Midwest where a farmer in ancient coveralls walks with the well dressed business person; it's a sight you get used to. It must be business dress in big cities where a belt pack might stand out most. Here's an option, a "Karate Ankle Belt" designed to carry weights in separate internal pockets. It looks a bit bulky but I'll bet an industrious person could come up with a working EDC ankle-bag design that would both fit and conceal more stuff, and also allow the business man to carry without having to wear a belt bag. So how do we accommodate the business dress ladies with their EDCs? How about the poofy hair styles from the 60s? The EDC wig, or platform shoes made by Leatherman?