Massad Ayoob Praises the "Shoot-Me-First" Vest. The Advantages of a Concealment Vest. Critical Mas53

Although it has been scoffed and ridiculed, Massad Ayoob loves the Concealment vest. It has been dubbed the "Shoot-Me-First" vest, but Massad hasn't seen any examples of anyone wearing one being "Shot First." Mas explains the advantages and gives a demonstration of the benefits of the many pockets.
Note from Mas "I realized too late that at 7:36 I flubbed and said "Ted Yost" (the master pistolsmith) when I meant to say "Tom Yost" (the former IDPA National Champion in Stock Service Pistol). I hope you'll accept my apology."
-Apologetically, Mas
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Critical Mas(s) with Massad Ayoob is a show that provides expert analysis over a wide range of contemporaneous topics related to civilian and law enforcement self-defense, the use of force, and second amendment issues, provided by a renowned and established author with a career spanning decades in training law enforcement officers and the public at large, who is frequently called upon to provide expert witness testimony.
ABOUT MASSAD AYOOB:
Massad Ayoob has been handgun editor of GUNS magazine and law enforcement columnist for AMERICAN HANDGUNNER since the 1970s and has published thousands of articles in gun magazines, martial arts publications, and law enforcement journals. He is the author of some twenty books on firearms, self-defense, and related topics, including “In the Gravest Extreme” and “Deadly Force,” widely considered to be authoritative texts on the topic of the use of lethal force.
The winner of the Outstanding American Handgunner of the Year Award in 1998, Mas has won several state and regional handgun shooting championships. Ayoob was the first person to earn the title of Five Gun Master in the International Defensive Pistol Association. He is the current President of the Second Amendment Foundation. He served 19 years as chair of the Firearms Committee of the American Society of Law Enforcement Trainers, and several years as a member of the Advisory Board of the International Law Enforcement Educators and Trainers Association. In addition to teaching for those groups, he has also taught
for the International Association of Law Enforcement Firearms Instructors and the International Homicide Investigators seminars.
Mas has received judicial recognition as an expert witness for the courts in weapons and shooting cases since 1979, and served as a fully sworn and empowered, part-time police officer for 43 years, mostly at supervisor rank. Ayoob founded the Lethal Force Institute in 1981 and served as its director until 2009, and now trains through Massad Ayoob Group. He has
appeared on CLE-TV delivering continuing legal education for attorneys, through the American Law Institute and American Bar Association, and has been retained to train attorneys to handle deadly force cases through the Armed Citizens Legal Defense Network. Ayoob served for two
years as co-vice chair of the Forensic Evidence Committee of the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers. He also appeared in each episode of Personal Defense TV (Sportsman’s Channel).
0:00 - The "Shoot-Me-First" Vest
1:00 - Other Names
2:30 - The Pockets
5:35 - Concealment
7:10 - Different Brands
9:30 - Has anyone been "Shot First?"
#MassadAyoob #WilsonCombat #CriticalMas

[@MBowler]

Sandwiches: two is one. One is none.

[@commiesarehorrible7622]

Tactical sandwiches

[@longgone9869]

@@commiesarehorrible7622 You beat me to it

[@biglar155]

@@jonathannieve6544 Some say that carrying your sandwich aiwb with mayo already applied to the bread is very dangerous. Others will say that it's the way God, Oscar Mayer, and Hellmann intended. Now, I've heard that some city police departments carry their sandwiches with mayo applied but sealed in two zip-lock bags until they are going to eat them.

[@travisbond635]

Hell yeah.

[@blantant]

Never forget the backup sandwich

[@radiofreedom7840]

I was honestly expecting him to pull out a backup vest, because... you never know when you might need one.

[@writerinfact1768]

@@pcarrierorange One for me, one for my son; he wears it nearly every day.

[@duanebouchard8736]

Mine folds up into itself, and makes a travil pillow

[@johnevans388]

Surprised he doesn't carry any medical supplies. I pack bleed control granules, chest seals and FFDs in my pockets when travelling.

[@PlayingInVestapol]

🤣If he'd said that I would have died laughing.🤣🤣

[@Struthio_Camelus]

Or back-up cargo pants - because you never know...

[@madd_lad_matt]

Remember, switching to your backup sandwich is faster than reloading.

[@That-Dude]

I never knew this was associated with concealed carry. I legitimately grew up always associating it with older fishermen, hunters, and photographers just like you said in the beginning of the video.

[@tuseroni6085]

yeah i always associate it with fishers, he just needs a hat with some lures attached to it and some of those big boots (gaiters i think they are called)

[@erickhuntsman240]

thats because mossad ayoob and bill wilson are dinosaurs perpetuating high value tomfuddery

[@q-man762]

It's Ok to say fishermen! A fisher it a large member of the weasel family.

[@That-Dude]

@@q-man762 it's autocorrect....

[@robertsadler9079]

I bought one (fisherman's vest) when I was a teenager back in the early Nineties from Banana Republic. I may even still have it somewhere. It was so incredibly useful and I and used it for travel.

[@expressarch]

As an archaeologist, I wore one of those vests on the job for almost 40 years. Better weight distribution than a pack.

[@overbuiltlimited]

If by better you mean putting all the weight on your mid and upper back rather than your hips (like a properly worn pack) then you're right.

[@shadytreez]

Looking to get a bug out vest now.

[@NitroNinja324]

Thought you would've carried everything in a satchel. Goes better with the leather jacket and fedora, right?

[@STHHCalebBrewster]

​@@NitroNinja324 😂 you're playing with the most powerful genetic weapon like a child who just found their parents gun

[@Wastelandman7000]

Yep. Kind of civilian load bearing kit.

[@jimmobley533]

As a teenager I traveled to Kenya with my father in the mid 1980's. My father wore a photographer's vest on the trip (just for photos, no guns). One afternoon we were walking the beach in Mombasa. A group of about a half dozen locals in their late teens/early 20's came up to us. One of them offered to hold my father's vest so that we could get in the water. My father took his cigar out his mouth and said "no thank you". After that the nice guy who offered to hold the vest asked "what you got in there? a pistol?" My father smiled, but said nothing. They moved along and we did not see them again.

[@jimbrown9885]

Just some adolescent beachgoers looking to do a good deed on their spring break from engineering university.

[@blondiejoemanco226]

@@jimbrown9885 lol, they were on their way to engineering university.

[@drdabsmore945]

​@@jimbrown9885Same group of people who used to run through your mother.

[@hideshisface1886]

In my country they are still known as 'fisherman's vest'. But honestly - almost every fisherman, biologist or archeologist has one. And seems like every other man gets it as a free upgrade the second they hit 40. This thing pretty much never runs out of space. It is just convenient.

[@tacticalskiffs8134]

Not a fisherman's vest, Those do have all the pockets, but they are set up completely differently. The most obvious variation being that they start at about the front ribs so that one can wade in to a reasonable depth. I only mention it because a lot of vests that are far too long, and otherwise not specifically set up for FF are sold as such, and people should go to specialty stores to at least see what a fishing vest looks like, even if you buy one at a cheaper location when the time comes.

[@firebush1343]

Can confirm never wanted one before but just turned 40 and It looks appealing all the sudden.

[@danells5399]

I wore a tactical vest similar to the one you showcased today on your channel every workday for years (20+ yrs.). I worked in hospital engineering and found that the vest was a must to comfortably carry an assortment of job related items such as a leatherman, surefire lite, knife, wallet, phone, pens, etc. Special note: I got lucky. I found the ideal design when I purchased my first vest. It was made and sold by Columbia (no longer available). The critical feature that made all the difference was that the upper collar was a sewed-on piece of 2" strip of black neoprene that absorbed and evenly distributed all the weight across the shoulders that a fully loaded vest subjects the wearer to. This made the vest comfortable to wear all day long. Fortunately, I'm one of those guys that hate to shop and when I find something that works, I purchase more than one. I still have 2 more new ones in my closet (color: light cream and green). They are outstanding for traveling as you have all your documents right at hand when needed. Side note: I never zip the vest up. Too restrictive. Always kept it open. Also, the material is rip-stop tough and they last forever. Columbia should take note of my comments. They had a winner here and they should have kept it in their inventory. Thanks. -D

[@nichevo1]

Can you provide the name/model of the Columbia garment? How I miss my Banana Republic safari vest from my teens...

[@thamomentum]

@@nichevo1bam you're welcome - Men’s PFG Henry’s Fork™ V Vest

[@xbioman7882]

Your ability to deliver this monologue with a completely straight face is amazing.

[@ColoradoStreaming]

I lost it at the deadpan cargo pants line.

[@Wastelandman7000]

And you'd never want to play poker against him LOL

[@philipgreen1440]

A black vest would have been more appropriate with the black shirt, but then there wouldn't have been anything to talk about.

[@alexgman1988]

Saying “backup sandwich” without even a suggestion of emotion is worthy of an academy award.

[@johnelder4273]

Dude is "the king" of dry humor. Love this guy.

[@ThePoorBoy]

"Backup sandwich" is the best laugh I've had all month. Thanks, Mas! And a big thank you to you and Ken and Bill for creating what is becoming an indispensable (and dare I say critical!) archive of knowledge for future generations of freedom-loving people.

[@ryanfischer5011]

Totally agree, and he did it with a straight face.

[@hansblitz7770]

NOPD was so corrupt they had the "ham sammich" (a confiscated gun in a plastic bag) dump it on somone in case of a bad shoot.

[@charlesmullins3238]

Yep the sandwich put me down….then the hardcopy sent it out the window…lmfao absolutely legendary

[@warren3665]

I know! I about fell out of my chair. Lol

[@zerofox9900]

Came here to post this. Hilarious.

[@DocStrangeSelig]

I am both a photographer and a concealed weapon carrier. I have used photo and fishing vests for decades. I am rethinking my uses after this video. I have found your videos to be extremely helpful and informative. Thank you.

[@relevantinformation6655]

I used a similar one that was canvas and netting as a working photographer decades ago. Stands up to Vietnam jungles and the like. Still have it as a souvenir of working in 23 countries. Some rather “sketchy”. Fantastic channel.

[@DocRun1]

Am I the only one who was laughing hysterically at the shear amount of stuff he just kept pulling out of the vest? And bravo on keeping a completely straight face. 😂

[@Great_Wall_of_Text]

It's easy to keep a straight face when you are dead serious : )

[@numbr17]

I don't know how he did it with a straight face.

[@ownlydown5933]

It doesn't seem that Farfetch if your going for work... Even like normal work like at retail.

[@rainbowGZUS7]

@@ownlydown5933 you have autism if you bring that much shit to a retail job with you everyday.

[@leroyhileman4284]

Love it, thanks Mas. I can't believe how much crap my wife outs in her Walmart vest before going to work!

[@acars9999]

I read Massad's articles in Guns & Ammo (or shooters world) when I was a kid - and I am 54 years old. He is a LEGEND,

[@kenbrown1847]

Agreed and I'm 58

[@jefftraboulsy8631]

He is an absolute class act.

[@cpowell6564]

Me too! 58...loved Massad's Guns and Ammo

[@dtna]

Yep... Massad, Louie Awerbuck, Pat Rogers and Clint Smith. Legends.

[@7come11two]

American Handgunner

[@johnbrady9946]

Thank you for all your hard work. You’re a real blessing.

[@DDGVET4]

I wore one of these vests to jury duty because it was in mildly cool weather and provided just the right amount of comfort plus I could carry plenty of snacks to eat, writing and reading materials while lanquishing in the jury pool waiting room. Anyway, when I entered the building to go through the metal detector the first thing the deputy asked was "Are you carrying"? I knew it was because of the vest. Then I took the vest off and handed it to him I said "No, it was to keep from having to take everything out of my pockets to go through the metal detector."

[@xtcxtwo1]

I always entered through LASC side door. Ocourtesy.

[@bloodybritbastard]

That's actually a bloody good idea.

[@DDGVET4]

@@xtcxtwo1 Some people have all the luck. I on the other hand am not one of them.

[@christophernolen4117]

I can’t believe folks are still wearing this thing…we had a couple of low vis security guys at the church I attended and they would wear these ridiculous vests..I approached one of the guys and told hi uhhh I thought you guys were supposed to be low vis..blend with the congregation..you might as well have a security cop uniform on…he’s like what do you mean? Dude, it’s like you’re wearing a bad toupee or something!

[@johnstupid327]

they ask everyone that

[@travistibbs1530]

Me: Ok, ok, I love lots of pockets, too. Massad: “… backup sandwich.” Me: Oh, Massad, you have raised the bar more than I had anticipated. Massad: After clearing unimaginable flight survival supplies, still has firearms within the vest. Me: I need one.

[@baker90338]

As a kid whom had parents whom owned one, it’s really really good.

[@michellebarnhill5130]

I need 4 of these...in different colors!!

[@MrBenjaminleduc]

holdout sandwich

[@duanebouchard8736]

Excuse me do you have any Grey Poupon Mas " But, ovcourse, it's in the 9 mil pocket

[@biglars7269]

Thanks Massad, I have been a fan for many years and really value your opinion. I love the sarcastic dry humor! Keep up the good work!

[@BigDogDaddyD]

Thank you for another good video. While I was active duty (and retired) Marine Corp, movies on base were free to service people and their dependents. But the snacks were not. So I would load my "sportsman's vest" with snacks and drinks for the kids, and later grandkids, when I took them to the movies. My favorite line when they asked for popcorn or other things was to tell them, "I do not love you enough to spend my money on you here."

[@shinigami1925]

I laughed out loud at "backup sandwich". Awesome. Will always remember the day I sat down for my first CCW class, back around 1990, and instructor (and LAPD legend) Larry Mudgett walked in wearing a very similar vest, and proceeded to place 24 different weapons on the table. No one had a clue he was carrying anything before he did that.

[@matthewgruba8040]

Me too. LOL

[@gregorydamario7977]

But you knew better from then on.

[@bloodlove93]

i did something similar with tripp pants once hid a couple dozen knives

[@mattw7949]

Naw... I carry my sandwich in a custom fast-draw. Don't wanna be messing with pockets in a real SHTF hunger attack.

[@ericktamberg670]

As a detective in Brazil, I often wear vests of this type. Specially in Homicides, many times people confused me with a journalist - and told me things that were not be told if I was recognized a police officer. People tends to talk more freely with a reporter than a cop. It was far easier to collect testimonials from witnesses with a mini cassette voice recorder that I carried in one of these pockets. I have two vests bought in 90's, with four pockets designed to carry 35mm camera filmes. They are perfect to carry speed loaders.

[@MrLlama999]

I think because of the photography roots.

[@tristanhallmark2724]

Watching you and hearing your commentary unpacking that vest has got to be the funniest, most convincing 4 minutes of any video on KZbin

[@mikevaldez7684]

Very impressive. I've never heard Massad or this channel before. But the presentations are excellent. A very professional, clear concise & intelligent exposition. I thoroughly enjoyed it. 🙋🙏

[@j2kersh]

I don't think the importance of the backup sandwich has been discussed enough in the EDC world. Thank you for bringing this important topic to light. I have a "magic vest of holding" by Columbia that I love because of the many and various pockets. I will be adding a spare PB&J into the pocket rotation, perhaps with a tactical polymer case for bread protection.

[@r2db]

The "tactical sammich" is highly underrated as it often increases all player stats such as agility, intellect, stamina, etc. The lack of a backup caffeinated beverage might be an issue for some, however.

[@richarddeszo1699]

How about a kydex sandwich holster!😛

[@dansherman1980]

Agreed was almost like seeing PB&J in squeeze bottles for the first time.

[@TediumGenius]

"Magic Vest of Holding" AH HAHAHAHA!!! I was thinking of the Coat of Many Colors... but you nailed it! Massad's sense of humor is perfect. Just what I needed this morning...

[@annoyed707]

If you take the wrong turn in the wrong conditions you may be glad for a backup sandwich.

[@68fmj51]

Several years ago I would wear my “shoot me first” vest every time I had to fly anywhere. Prior to going through security it was easier to stuff everything in my vest and put it in the plastic bin to be scanned. That way I didn’t have to have my wallet, keys, etc. laying loose in the bin. I could just grab my vest and shoes and get through the security checkpoint quicker.

[@InquisitorJack]

I do the same thing with my carry on backpack. Much easier than plastic bins

[@coleydavis8456]

@@InquisitorJackexcept they make you pull all of your electronics out of your bag to be scanned separately ugh 😤

[@bwofficial1776]

There's a company called ScottEVest that makes jackets and vests full of internal pockets. I have one and do exactly what you said. No fussing with emptying pockets plus it frees up space in the carry-on. Super practical and also great in amusement parks.

[@chaplainong]

I use my vest this way when I travel. Even shove my belt in a large pocket. I wear cowboy boots. Otherwise I’d put my shoes in a pocket!

[@HotVoodooWitch]

@@coleydavis8456 I fly 2x/month and the only time I'm asked to remove my phone from my bag is when I'm "randomly selected" (😖) to do so. I have TSA PreCheck, though.

[@harpomarx7777]

I wear the "Banana Republic" Safari Travel Vest, nearly identical to yours. I don't carry a waist weapon, but I do put my Bersa Thunder CC .380 in the large lower pocket on the outside, right side, and my small-of-the-back holster in a large pocket overlaying the pistol pocket, which prevents printing. I had to laugh out loud as you unpacked yours; very funny presentation. I came up with this solution all on my own before viewing this video .. and it just authenticated my choice. Thanks, Mas!

[@rb67mustang]

Many years ago, I had a vest similar to that one and it was used as a photography vest; it was perfect and worked quite well.

[@johnelder4273]

I wore a 5.11 vest as a cover garment for years while working as a U.S. Probation Officer as did many other federal and state officers out west. I never heard of someone being "shot first" as a result but I was correctly identified, by a child of 6 or so, in a government housing project one evening. The kid looked me up a down and said "You're Willie's probation officer huh?" I just nodded and said "yeah". So much for being "discreet". LOL!

[@slackleashdogtraining3598]

I wore photo vest today to the dog park; a young man (25yr old) “Made me” in 10 seconds but he’s been in and around the “system” most of his life. So there is that. It won’t preclude me from wearing my photo vest though; as I believe he is an anomaly.

[@johnelder4273]

@@slackleashdogtraining3598 Yeah, the criminals, especially the parolees and former inmates will spot us in two seconds. But, they are savvy enough to know that we are more trouble than we're worth and will likely move on to a softer target. Crazy people, like 18 year-old mass shooters, probobly won't realize you are armed. So, I really don't see a downside. You are broadcasting that you are armed to "all the right people" and not alarming the sheep. I've actually "been made" just by my stance and habit of looking the room over. Retired LEOs "stick out like a pig turd in a pan of milk" and I don't know if that's good or bad but I've never been robbed.

[@BirdDogey1]

I was with a buddy driving to a Clippers game. Hood rats were yelling It’s the pOlice.

[@ms.annthrope415]

@BirdDogey1 hood rats don't say police. They say, IT'S DA PO-PO!

[@GreatNinjaman]

​@@ms.annthrope415 Not in Virginia. It's pronounced "POH-lees". Note the emphasis on the prefix letters.

[@nateschlegel8448]

Wilson combat should start making their own vests. I’d buy one immediately!

[@maxmaxim5635]

Will be over-priced. Just buy a good one and put a Wilson Combat patch on it.

[@Freekniggers]

No you wouldn't.

[@mikeyncali]

Well it would take years to come out if this guy is designing it 👍🏼👍🏼 he is the Banks of self defense 👍🏼👍🏼

[@rmp5s]

I would too!

[@thickoc4539]

Lol, 600 bucks.

[@eliasrodas7336]

had me chuckling when displaying the amount of pockets that vest has, thank you

[@gscop1683]

Nice job Massad! Im 70yoa, 40 years in LE. Instructor since 1993. These vests are perfect for many things, and many circumstances! Have to say....the "back up sandwhich" was priceless! Thanks!

[@richdemanowski2575]

Love seeing someone who takes "always have a backup" seriously.

[@maxmaxim5635]

Watch it, man! I've got a sandwich - and a back-up sandwich!

[@maxmaxim5635]

Food for thought - literally.

[@taylormahan1744]

Thanks again for all of your experience and insight. I have been following your work since the 1980's.

[@markh.6687]

Mr. Ayoob is truly an American treasure. And yes, even as a civilian with pockets full of everything except a firearm, I found myself thinking of hunting/fishing/photographer vests to give me room for all my 'stuff' over the years. (Also, having a backup sandwich is NEVER wrong).

[@thedeathwobblechannel6539]

Slim Jim and other beef jerky are viable options sir

[@franktipton2763]

I wear a vest everyday and have for the last 20 years. I've been a LEO in the Air Force as well as Deputy Sheriff in 2 of these united states. I usually wear an IWB or vertical shoulder holster. I make all of my own holsters out of leather, except vertical shoulder holsters. They may not be as fancy or expensive as brand name holsters,but they are every bit as good. I've been a fan of yours for many years and have read your books and I have great respect for you. Thanks for this particular video as I can show it to some friends who won't go anywhere with me if I wear my Shoot Me First vest. Again, thanks.

[@terrywolff3141]

When I first started carrying concealed I had an Officer stop me on the street because I was printing through my shirt and after checking my license suggested I get a Photographers vest. Since this was in 1990, I found a great one at Banana Republic...

[@vonphilp]

Content suggestion: Let’s say as a conceal carry person I am called upon to defend life and do so. What if other conceal carry individuals nearby misunderstand the situation and think I’m the bad guy for shooting someone, and then shoot me? With more and more people starting to carry, I think it’s a legitimate concern. Concealed carry people mistaking other concealed carry people as the bad guy. I would love to see Massad address this topic!

[@troy3456789]

Observe, Orient, Decide, Act (and we do not get to choose what others do). If they attack you, you treat them as you would any other attacker, with the same level of careful shot placement. Always keep your head and eyes up and about when out and about.

[@graywind4326]

@@troy3456789 No thug in history ever wore one. Lots of cops do. So worry not.

[@stuckgrenadepin.225]

This is where your training and (hopefully) theirs kicks in. If you have to use your firearm, you should be very vocal by giving form and intelligible orders for the assailant to stop what they are doing (put the gun down/drop the knife/stop, get down, put your hands up/etc…) you yell for someone to call the police and an ambulance if necessary, and show the emotional control that a criminal wouldn’t have through you actions and demeanor. Stay as calm as you can. By asserting yourself in that manner people are more likely to view you as an “authority” and follow your commands or at the least, not shoot you.

[@garyfullmer4353]

I've been carrying since I was a young man when concealed carry was really becoming a thing. At that point most people buying firearms were still people that had families that had been firearms owners for generations. You got your training through learning the wisdom of your father uncles and elders. I earned every merit badge having to do with firearms in. Newer gun owners seem to be going for as much training as they can get. Most firearms channels stress ownership because it's the thing to do but also because they're very often advertising for professional instructors. Many firearms dealers are now offering training classes at their facilities. It's just good business but the right thing to do as well with encourage people to get training. Point being in large part people who are carrying these days are those who have been caring for a long time or those who are new who are seeking out instruction. Encourage all those who own firearms to seek as much training as they can get. Then you use situational awareness and your own good judgment. Don't insinuate yourself into a situation where you can either run or hide. I would say that statistically speaking that law abiding concealed carry owners shooting at one another is something that has a very low probability of happening. People are getting more training becoming more savvy and understand that you should exhaust every opportunity before you draw your weapon. The chances that you will ever be in a situation to stop a shooting are extremely rare and therefore the chances that you will be in a situation to stop a shooting where there will be someone else there carrying with whom you'll get into a confrontation is extremely low. Really I only see one thing most people can do which is encourage everyone who carries to get as much training as possible. Then if you're in a life and death situation rely on your most powerful asset your brain. I think therefore the chances of law abiding concealed carriers getting into a firefight by mistake is extremely low.

[@stuckgrenadepin.225]

Also, not looking like a criminal always helps. Be clean, wear decent clothing. Don’t sag your pants, don’t wear clothes that are associated with gangs/thug culture, be friendly and respectful as you go about your day.

[@ocomfv9946]

Just wandered across your video and wanted to say thanks an intelligent and professional presentation. Never heard it called "shoot me first vest". But I wore one identical to the one in you video for well over a decade, closer to two. Everyday rain or shine hot or cold. With a Glock 17, 2 mags and a tanto. Plus Duck tape, paracord, first aid kit, gloves, glasses, ect.,ect., and never felt uncomfortable. Again thanks.

[@seeratlasdtyria4584]

Over the years (more than a half Century) :) I've accumulated 5 or 6 of these "safari" type vests, several in heavier construction long sleeve versions such as seen in John Wayne's "Hatari"; several in lighter weight, short and mid length sleeved/sleeveless versions. Depending on where I was at the time, I was assumed by people around me, as being everything from an African safari "Bwana"; a heavy pipe smoking (tobacco lol) field engineer, a clay pigeon/upland game fanatic, to , er, a fisherman :) However, when engaging in one of my particular lines of work, I invariably concealed a brace of weapons in my custom fitted dual shoulder rig most often deployed under a business suit or formal jacket. As I think about it now, I can only recall ever using one of these vests/jackets to cc a pistol once- in Vegas when unexpectedly formally requested to act as 'consensus' security chief (for obvious reasons they couldn't agree on relying upon one of their own respective bodyguards) for a group of 'out of town' but nationwide Gentlemen's club owners/operators' (yes, THOSE guys) during that year's Adult Entertainment convention's National 'Exotic Dancer' Finals held in Caesar's Palace; essentially a nationwide 'talent' competition of the best girls from each of their respective territories. Hosted by then SNL comedian "Father Guido Sarducci", as you might well imagine, it's become one of my most enduring memories: Visual and otherwise lol. HOWEVER, given all the crazy things I've used these vests/jackets for- I HAVE NEVER, even once, employed one to carry a "backup sandwich" RFLMAO. Thumbs up Mas.

[@theancientartofmodernwarfa1850]

I got my first such jacket during my first tour in Iraq. In military circles, they were known as Iraq Jackets. One day, in loading up all those pockets for an event (non-combat) I was warned to be careful, because you could hurt yourself by trying to carry everything that would fit in the jacket! This video comes close to fulfilling that warning.

[@LuckyCharms777]

Yeah, I’m not going to the Middle East and wearing the proverbial undercover CIA agent photographers vest. At worst, you might be targeted as CIA/military, at best you might be targeted as a photographer for theft of your equipment or for ransom kidnapping. Clearly I’ve seen too many movies, but you never know. 😂

[@fscottfscott5369]

Old buddy of mine (70yrs old) used to carry a fanny pack with a 1911 in it. RIP Bill...

[@Daniel_Size_12]

I just started to carry. Thank you so much for all your valuable info. I have watched most all your videos. I hope to meet you one day. You are a great man.

[@lawrencefieselman3803]

I always enjoy your videos and, more importantly, I learn something. You present the facts in a straightforward and very understandable manner. Thanks and keep up to the good work.

[@josephcrouch1214]

I laughed like crazy about the story of the kid on the bike. My dad wore one every single day, and he was a psychologist.

[@michaelbumbera4350]

As a photographer and a CCW carrier I found vests like this very practical and valuable....when not wearing one of these I have an assortment of colorful and patterned Hawaiian shirts that pretty well break up the outline of even my biggest revolvers..I carried a 4 inch Colt python for many years...unnoticed....long before the days of the hi cap wonder nines a couple speed loaders in the pockets of a vest like these was very reassuring with that big Colt!

[@TheUsername55555100]

The most beautiful revolver ever made. Do you still have it?

[@michaelbumbera4350]

@@TheUsername55555100 Sadly no..illness forced me to part with it and the rest of my meager collection.....it was fun while it lasted..getting old,,well, you have heard it before ,,you learn to accept and to adapt!

[@TheUsername55555100]

@@michaelbumbera4350 I'm so sorry to hear that. Which grip did you have on it? What are you carrying nowadays?

[@michaelbumbera4350]

@@TheUsername55555100 Had pachmayr grips....again..due to health I am house bound..don't carry..got a big German Shepherd instesd

[@TheUsername55555100]

@@michaelbumbera4350 I’m sorry, I should have read more carefully because you did say “and the rest of my meager collection.” German Shepherds are as beautiful as a Colt Python!

[@kileyoleary5756]

Pure Gold my friend, pure GOLD. Thank you.

[@bombasticbusterii6926]

Dear Mr. Ayoob, I just found your channel and I am over in Fayetteville, Ar. I was instantly impressed with you and your presentation. That was after just one video! My son is a studying gun smith and very knowledgeable. I instantly sent a share. Maybe we will see you sometime! Take care!

[@stevensimpson2245]

Been using a Banana Republic Photographers Vest for about 30 years both in my LEO career and family fun. It great not only as a camera utility vest but outstanding for concealed carry. Yes, the pockets carry a lot of stuff. I use it for work (District Attorney Investigator) when needed and vacations. It Carries a lot of stuff and hides it as well. Also, I been a cop for a long time. I’m not aware of any “Shoot me First Incidents” with this as a cover garment.

[@jonathanraven5939]

Me too

[@LuckyCharms777]

Ah, Banana Republic. I wish they still had travel and safari clothes. The fricking Gap ruined that company after buying it.

[@tmaddrummer]

The TSA Nightmare Vest! These vests have been popular for at least 30+ years. Thanks and Blessings Mas.

[@DavidLLambertmobile]

I remember Banana Republic 1980s era jungle vest. They began common with ccw users, PIs, cops.

[@exploringhistory5796]

I can see where these vests can easily replace an urban backpack for many people. I’ve been considering one of these for outdoor activities. As a pipe smoker, I hate having two pipes, containers of tobacco, cleaners, and a lighter sitting on my passenger seat. It makes sense for me to load them in a vest. As for concealed carry, the vest makes sense for those of us concerned about dressing around a holstered firearm. I’ll prob check out the 511 vest. As retired LE, I can attest to the good quality of their apparel: our uniforms and jackets were replaced with 511. Good video as always!

[@ScottB289]

I have been using the same CampCo vest for over twenty years. It's a great vest and after so many years an old friend.

[@halverde6373]

I wore vests like that my entire 45 year career as a HVACR repairman. 80% of my tools resided in there.

[@MrSumGuns]

You got more items in that vest than a tactical bag could ever carry. Awesome video.

[@erictwickler4247]

My vest has fewer pockets but provides good concealment. I have trained with people who have had the benefit of your trainings! Invaluable information. Thank you!

[@stevieg4201]

Thanks for the video Mass, I’m hooked brother, love what you do. I’ve never heard of a shoot me first incident in the north east (where I live, cape cod) with a vest, in IDPA we call them tactical fishing vests haha, yours does hold a lot of stuff

[@Elnu01]

I have been carrying concealed for years (we are about the same age). Vests have been very helpful for concealment.

[@kingbird56]

Thank you for pointing out that there are no documented cases of wearing a vest resulting in a shooting of a concealed carrier. I've worn concealment vests for years and have heard the "shoot me first" thing about vests and fanny packs, but never had anyone offer proof. I've never had anyone ask if I was carrying when wearing a vest or fanny pack (including LEOs). Sometimes gun folks assume too much about how or what criminals think.

[@LastStar007]

As well as how often CCW citizens are on the scene of a crime. Statistically, it's just not *that* likely, and the people who are serious about self-defense steer clear of anything shady in the first place.

[@YellowPaint100]

Agreed! To me ppl like that are just extreme! They make rules out of the exception. The same for self defense in hand to hand combat. These types can always always always find a way for the criminal to win. ☝️😯 ohhh you never know!!! Well ok, ☝️😮 oh I'll see ya later! Geez Louise!!!

[@derekeastman7771]

To be fair, I’m not sure that level of detail is reported in after such situations. I.e., even if somebody were to be shot wearing one of these while carrying, I’m not sure that information would ever become public.

[@UncomplicatedFellow]

​@@derekeastman7771 yeah how would they report or collect that data? That's a weird take to assume that somehow we would know how many people have been shot based on any type of clothes, even most gangbangers ain't shooting a nerdy white guy in a gang affiliated hat. If anyone is the shoot me first guys it's the guy with the Glock shirt or that nine line or grunt shit.

[@KenTenTen]

That's right. I believe this is just 'gallows humor' at its finest. (Good name, by the way)

[@JasperHunt-hq7pu]

I love your propensity for fault tolerance

[@MarshmallowBoy]

I click for the knowledge, I stay for the voice.

[@scottlewis2372]

I'm sure you are telling the truth regarding the "shoot me first" cases, but it sure doesn't fall into a "grey man" idea. I literally laughed out loud at "backup sandwich". Thanks, Mas. Love your content.

[@la5081]

What if you get one in grey? (Asking for a friend...) lol

[@RemoteViewr1]

I think the grey man idea is interesting buy somewhat over rated. I will happily trade it off, very happily for carrying a practical life saving med kit items, like a couple tourniquets. Ymmv

[@la5081]

@@RemoteViewr1 and a backup sandwich…

[@shadowgarr7649]

​@@RemoteViewr1 Carried a small first aid kit on my belt for years w/o a need. Some time ago, used most of the contents and needed more at an accident scene.

[@RemoteViewr1]

@@shadowgarr7649 Hreat real life example. Thanks for posting!

[@alistairmscott]

Massad Ayoob and Paul Harrell jacket pocket collab video needs to happen!

[@paulc.cowanjr.9499]

Thank you for backing me up to my family. I have had my vest for 20 +years and love it so much I named it "Pockets". My 30 year old kids dislike it alot. and kid me whenevr I wear it. Same as my wife. Who won't be seen with me wearing it. I STILL love "Pockets"

[@ronaldrose7593]

Thank you for sharing this informative video. I like the multiple pockets. Stay safe out there. 🤗

[@johnsmith-js9nv]

Massad Ayoob and Paul Harrell should get together and do a garment review to see who can carry the most armament and accessories.

[@ericsarchive7718]

Throw Wranglerstar into the mix and I'm with you.

[@NorthwoodsShooter]

I love the old 5.11 vests. They do exactly what you say , and are so utilitarian in nature.

[@bombomos]

5.11 has the same name branding as Surpreme

[@DavidLLambertmobile]

Banana Republic back in the 1980s sold 1000s of jungle vests. I remember the printed catalog. I said then how practical a simple OD vest would be. Ayoob, in a few 1990s 1980s magazine photos has nylon vests.

[@Frankie5Angels150]

Essentially the real man’s version of a purse!

[@kevindblew6822]

Two things beyond my thanks for a great video: 1. I bought a similar vest (3XL)in 2019 and then lost 100 pounds by the next year when I flew to Nairobi. Now an XL, I decided to keep the bigger vest to augment my carry-on luggage constraints. Similar load as yours though I’m adding your suggested items! 2. Great historical tie back to the safari and photo vest origins. Bonus: Paleontologist? Rolled into TarPit Laughing!!! RITL!😊

[@xavierlaraserra]

This video is gold Mas! One more subscriber here!👍👍

[@longgone9869]

I imagine I may have been identified as a concealed carrier but I’ve never heard of anyone being shot because they were wearing one. Even at that the only person to identify you would have to be someone who is apart of our gun culture because the general public is oblivious to what goes on around them

[@blakep4329]

Anyone that's about to shoot a place up probably isn't going to be putting too much thought about who to shoot first if they're not wearing a police or security uniform.

[@NoNo_IStay]

I'm 30, I could never pull this off unless fishing 😆

[@gijoe508]

Get yourself a big set of aviators and a trucker hat and you will look the part

[@bombomos]

General public doesn't do mass shooting. So the person who is gonna be looking for carriers are people who plan to carry out mass shootings. From what statistics show, mass shooters avoid any place that they believe or show signs of having people carrying. So with that in mind the advertising yourself as a carrier is a double edge sword. Most mass shooters will stay clear of that area.... But on the off chance you get one of the more insane ones, he will most likely gun you down first. The biggest example I can think of is a husband and wife shooting up a Walmart. Carrier didn't know their was two shooters. So as he goes after the husband, the wife sees him and guns him down before he can even make a move. Being loud and proud of you gun skills is nice, but being a grayman is always better. I'd never put a Glock sticker on my car

[@Valorius]

There is a certain style of dress that screams out I am a tactical Johnny shoot me 1st.

[@thenarrowpathoftruth9443]

This is positively the most entertaining video I have ever seen Mr. Ayoob do. I laughed at the back up sandwich and the backup book. And all the while doing it in his hyper-serious low tone voice. It made it twice as funny. Great job. I wasn’t expecting you to bring a smile to my face.

[@theprogram863]

I'm trying to figure out what that softcover book was. Tragics Gro- something.

[@jonlaw7657]

I agree 1000%!

[@em1osmurf]

old enough to have been in situations where each item would be invaluable, i saw the ironic humor in the vest, if you "needed it, but didn't have it". and bologna and cheese are emergency rations everywhere. his serious tone was genuine.

[@Thumper17]

​@@theprogram863 Tragic Ground by Erskine Caldwell. The hardcover was Desert Star by Michael Connelly

[@theprogram863]

@@Thumper17 Thanks!

[@JMartinez-lf5ox]

Wow, I though I was the only one with a vest like that. I bought one back in the early 1980s so I can carry my large Buck knife. During the fall I wear it to cover my M&P full size 40cal with an exyra mag. No one can see it. I love it , but I never heard of a CCW sandwich, love it, great video, keep up the good work.

[@rspc6132]

Thanks for this video, never really thought about a vest for CC. I am 6'1 and just under 300lbs. I always wanted to carry something bigger than a .380 without printing. My only problem now is which one to get and which one will not kill me in the Florida summer heat and humidity. Loved the back up sandwich:)

[@csps56]

Love your content Mas. Your presentation, tone, delivery are second to none. I have learned so much. What I truly admire is your vocabulary. I love hearing those SAT words that I studied 50 years ago. lol

[@GeauxRussGeaux]

I love this man as if he were the uncle I never had. God bless you, Mr. Ayoob!

[@5MinuteMaj0r]

I would let him F my mom.

[@agustintellez136]

I want a classy sophisticated yet dangerous uncle lmao. He always brings a backup sandwich too! Lol

[@roberthogan9273]

I wear a vest every day. Plenty of pockets for phone, pen, notepad, business cards, keys, wipes (for kids) and everything else you might need. Many times I've been asked if I were going fishing but I've never had anyone ask if I were carrying a firearm. Yes I even wear them through the airport without issue. Vests are great!

[@unseenentity7085]

Civilian LBE.

[@PanamaSticks]

Thank you again Mr. Ayoob. You not only gave us useful information, you made it funny! You could teach a course on deadpan humor! I'm reminded of Bob Newhart.

[@Joeatsaco69]

Been a student of yours since 1990 reading your books. Well done. I have a nice western style warm vest that I carry with.

[@fortresstabby4035]

I bought a vest similar to that for geological field school over 40 years ago. Still have it. Paleontology is a branch of geology, so perhaps the kid had some rock hounds in his family.

[@lynnkramer1211]

I have a 'photojournalist' vest and have worn it for years. I did however have trouble remembering which pocket I put certain things into. I got in some trouble at an airport when they found one single 9mm round that I had not put in my checked luggage before the flight though, so be careful about that.

[@olflatlander9380]

Mas my brother, if I may call you my brother;. A smile came across my face as I watched this video. All my life I have been asked why I carry "all that stuff". Because you never know when you might need something I would reply I've had people laugh at what I carry and then turn around and ask if they could use something I have on me. 🤠. Thanks for your work. Have a great day.

[@MichaelGray-fw3gw]

Excellent topic Mass! I've had mine for 40 years.

[@beyproctor7673]

My dad wore a vest like that but probably much cheaper. He used it the same way by carrying everything he might need on a trip or wood cutting day. The pockets are great. Even though he was also a concealed carrier I know the vest was not part of his concealment strategy. He was using it as outdoor gear. Great, functional fashion advice. Thank you!

[@dougwilliams7641]

Mas, years ago I emailed you requesting advice on flying with guns in checked luggage. I still keep a printed copy of your detailed reply in my luggage. Thank You. The trip to Dallas TX, which prompted me to ask your advice, resulted in my favorite firearm related story. I was standing at the DFW checkin desk explaining to the ‘Mark 1 Little Old Lady’ that my handguns were in a lockable but unlocked hard sided case in the suitcase which was opened and facing her. Not missing a beat in her rapid typing she said “Just zip it up Honey, this is Texas”. Thanks Again Mas

[@JustScottPaid]

I was waiting for you to pull out a pork shoulder! Very good timing, I was just looking at vests on Amazon right before this video. Thanks for sharing!

[@NewBritainDan]

So many backups I was waiting m for you to pull out a fully load backup vest. 😊

[@EricDaMAJ]

I've never heard such a story. However, I'm hesitant to take any bag or clothing I used at the range to the airport. A forgotten loose cartridge or even just gun powder residue can set off the metal detector or sniffer device. The former can get you in trouble; the latter won't but will hold you up in the line while TSA searches you.

[@larrythompson8630]

Most don’t care if you have ammo. “Toss it in trash, take it back to your car”. I make it a point to dump my carry on on table. Search under flaps, then refill.

[@marcondespaulo]

Well, I had that issue more that once. Prior to returning to my unfree country, I went to a range there and had some fun. The range clothing went in the luggage without washing. It looks to me it was the residue.

[@LuckyCharms777]

Good point. Drive or fly into Mexico with even an unknown shell casing and you’re going to have a much longer visit than you thought. There’s the story of a guy who cleaned out his truck before driving over, but overlooked an empty shell that had managed to get beneath a floor mat. It didn’t go well for him.

[@SepticFuddy]

@@larrythompson8630 A little over 10 years ago TSA at Logan Airport made me MAIL MYSELF a KEYCHAIN .357 cartridge with the chain going freely into the primer hole. Clearly no possibility whatsoever of using that thing for any malicious purpose. How they react depends entirely on the personnel lottery.

[@hedge313]

I was halfway expecting a tent and a rocket stove to make an appearance

[@WornoutRNPARAMEDIC]

Again this item by Mr. Ayoob is very right. No two of us who wear that vest ever load them just alike, but we are on the same chapter. It has been a great tool for me through the years. I highly recommend them to every gun carry guy as well as a paramedic and RN like I am both. I carry as much medical gear in mine back in my out door days before being home bound as I am now. Thanks to Mr. -Ayoob for this and so many other articles. I highly recommend that you read every word he ever has written.

[@xenoarthropod9266]

Interesting...This just popped up in my feed and I am glad it did. I got a couple of similar vests, waterproof flashlights, etc.. as promotional items from Canon when I was a teen. They were ugly and unbecoming for a teen girl but so useful to carry my camera gear. I ended up using them more as an adult when I was in the bush photographing arthropoda. I no longer care about looking unfashionable. Lol I have definitely put snacks, and backup snacks in there like yourself! Much better than lugging around a camera bag with all the snaps and fasteners. Subjects and lighting would be gone by the time I rifled through that thing for the right lens... I never thought about them as a "shoot me first" kinda thing. Just looks like a photographer's vest to me. Although, mine said Canon in red letters on the lapel and in big black letters across the back so there is that... Perhaps getting a patch or something with a camera brand name could be helpful for people worried about that.

[@camouflagepeacock6414]

I have read your books and learned so much from you over the years. I would like to thank you for sharing your knowledge with us. I got into self-defense firearms carry over 40 years ago. Never did any competition shooting, but shot once a week and also reloading my own. I always told other shooters to read your books. Became a certified NRA instructor to help spread the safety aspect of firearms. And now I see you have a great sense of humor too. I'm almost 69 now, but still ready! Thank you again.

[@doughesson]

It's interesting that,despite the changes in local laws,his information has largely remained pertinent over the years.

[@drshort49]

Great video! I've never heard or read of anyone being shot first while wearing one. Duluth Trading Company makes some good vests; I have three...two of which are insulated with Thinsulate, have armpit grommets to keep the wind out, have 13 pockets, and are constructed with heavy firehose material. The last is designed as a very good sportsman's vest and has 10 pockets. Both vests hang low enough to hide a full size handgun. I highly recommend Duluth's wares especially their cargo pants.

[@johnkruton9708]

Thanks for mentioning your experience with their vests. I’m in factory manufacturing and I love the cargo pants. Always wear them to work and outside at home. I always do my pat down when I get up from my desk at work to do a task. Wallet, notepad, hearing protection, etc etc. Love their products. I have a few of their jackets and fleece wear but they have gone away from what works. So have found other necessary coats cheaper elsewhere.

[@virgieravenhawk4847]

As a women who carries .. I found that the trout fishing vest worked well because of body type..though the arm slots were a bit to large...thank you for the lessons et al that you share...

[@bellakaldera3305]

I've worn out 4 of these, my present tactical waistcoat is blaze orange, I wear it most on deer season or on the range. I still have my first one which I had made of suede by a tailor in the ROK when I was deployed there. It is now stained with years of wear, but still functional.

[@curtisbarrow7650]

While not quite as well supplied as this one, my first one was acquired at Disney World, to carry souvenirs without having to carry bags. I now have both photography vests and CCW vests. As a further distraction at least one of the vests has a big "Great Falls Camera Club" on the back! And I am legit to wear it. An old traveling photographer tip: when going through airport security wear one of these and put EVERYTHING from your other pockets into this vest. Then fold it up and let them run it through the scanner. Just put it back on on the other end and you can redistribute it all at your leisure later. No messing around with dishes of your junk spread out and in public.. Nope, never heard of anyone getting shot first in one of these wonderful vests.

[@bwofficial1776]

There's a company called ScottEVest that makes jackets and vests full of internal pockets. I have one and do exactly what you said. No fussing with emptying pockets plus it frees up space in the carry-on. I've walked around Disney World with my SEV vest full of stuff and it was very convenient having everything at hand.

[@joserafaeldiazmarrero7668]

I like the bit with the Camera Club label -- that is one small detail about these, one of the things I'd think about it is, to not get one that tries hard for a "tacticool" look. Let it look indeed like you're into fishing or photography... or "a paleontologist" 😄

[@curtisbarrow7650]

@@joserafaeldiazmarrero7668 Of course it helps I am the past President of said Club! But I have seen other people put camera brand patches over GUN brand patches on fanny packs. Probably not a good idea for a big "I'm the NRA" logo...I also like loud Hawaiian shirts. I went a whole day out and about with my Wife once and she was surprised at the end of the day when she saw I had been carrying a full sized 1911 in a shoulder holster..all day long.

[@LuckyCharms777]

@@bwofficial1776 Nice, just checked out ScottEVest. Much better than this “look at me” monstrosity, it passes as regular clothing because that’s actually what it is. Wearing Massad’s vest, if they don’t shoot him first because they think he’s carrying, they’ll shoot him first because he caught their attention by standing out.

[@SubwayRat455]

Thank you Massad Ayoob, for all you do. I first read your articles in the late '70's and then the 1980's in "Guns and Ammo" magazine. Your articles helped me learn everything I know about firearms, and helped me in my career as an LEO.

[@debbiestimac5175]

Massad has helped me and my husband stay alive. "Don't be a crusader!" We don't venture outside our home anymore when our perimeter sensors alert to a prowler/vandal.

[@OneWildTurkey]

@@debbiestimac5175 Remotely operated floodlights are handy for many situations.

[@patriciosantibanez5458]

fantastic video. I have worn a photog vest for IDPA and it works great. Now I am going to buy an Armadillo vest and try it out. Thank you Mr. Ayoob for your sharing the info. Always learn something from you.

[@Dan-yr5iu]

Thoroughly enjoyed this. And have never thought about the “shoot me first” idea of the vest might not be valid. Always enjoy the subtle humor as well.

[@DarkFire515]

Such a shame that Eotac doesn't exist any more. I field-tested a pair of their pants around 2005/2006 along with an M65-style field jacket and some other bits of gear. I still use & wear those items to this day, despite having worn them all thousands of times over the years. Absolutely bomb proof gear. I can only imagine that their gear was such high quality that it cost too much to make and the company couldn't sustain the operating costs. Real shame.

[@longiusaescius2537]

Huh

[@cppctek]

I love that vest, I also love the fact you are a man of preparedness. My grandmother always taught me its better to be prepared for anything. Its better to have it and not need it than need it and not have it. My gramma had everything in her purse including snacks, baby wipes, book and all the same stuff. Really good to have everything you and your loved ones may need especially now a days, you never know if you could get stranded some where due to weird weather or airport delays or anything so having some snacks and baby wipes alone could really make life easier.

[@jerroldkazynski5480]

Select your situation and prepare accordingly. The proverbial bug-out bag. Or the entire vehicle.

[@Ploni.Almoni]

I have 3 of these style vests. I have worn them for years. I have the 511 which is very similar to the vest you are wearing and it has a handy snap at the top of the zipper so you can be unzipped but still snapped closed. I keep a holster and mag pouch in it that is held in place by the velcro liner on the inside pockets. The other two are from Deluth Trading company. One is lightweight, great for warm days, and I do not have any holsters inside of it. I just like wearing vests. The second Deluth vest has a shearling wool lining, which is nice on chilly days. My arms seldom get cold, and I hate/despise having my arms/shoulders bound by clothing, so it works well for me.

[@MP-le8iw]

I watched this video a few months ago and planned on buying the vest. As I browsed through a pawn shop one day, I found a used one for $15. Not as fancy as the one you have on but good enough. Thanks for the suggestion Mas.