Sunday, February 1, 2009

In Afghanistan, soldiers routinely carry loads of 130 to 150 pounds for three-day missions. How the gear breaks down:

Helmet, full body armor: 35 pounds

Weapon: 7 pounds or more

Ammunition: 15 pounds

Rucksack (empty): 8 pounds

Flashlight: 1.2 pounds

Water: 9 pounds

Food: 10 pounds

Batteries: 8 pounds

Sleeping bag and gear: 6 pounds

First aid kit: 1 pound

Extra clothing: 3 pounds

Additional ammunition, grenades, mines, flares, other demolition gear: 32 pounds

Radio (if required): 1.5 to 20 pounds