cyne's Halo 2A ODST

[CYNE 739]

INTRO: REFERENCE THREADS, FILES AND OVERALL DETAILS

MY GOAL WITH THIS THREAD IS: To document my journey as explicitly and thorough as possible, with as many photos as possible and a cost/time breakdown spreadsheet.
(please note that I am Australian, and will be pricing everything in AUD) (basically suck it up if you're not Aussie)

Time/Cost Excel Table​

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MY GOALS WITH THIS COSPLAY ARE:

• To make a Tier 3 accurate suit.
• Use 3D printing methods for the hard armour.
• Create a proper, in-universe accurate BDU. Relevant patches, camp pattern, leather ribbing etc.
• Include lights inside the helmet to provide a see-through effect.
• Create a microphone-to-speaker system and vice-versa.
• Include working helmet flashlight.

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COMPLETED BUILD

Saved for future use

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QUICK LINKS

• PART ONE: REFERENCES, ARMOUR SCALING AND PREPARATION
• PART TWO: UNDERSUIT
• PART THREE: SHINGUARDS
• PART FOUR: CHEST PIECE
• PART FIVE: SHOULDER PIECES
• PART SIX: HELMET
• PART SEVEN: STRAPPING AND SECURING
• PART EIGHT: PAINTING, WEATHERING AND DECALS
• PART NINE: POUCHES & MISCELLANEOUS DETAILS
• CLOSING THOUGHTS AND TIME/COST BREAKDOWN

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THREADS
Dagger06 's thread will be the main build reference thread, as they've done such a detailed report of their journey and provided pictures along the way.

Halo 2 Anniversary ODST - A return to form

Photo by PostConBlues So after a long absence, I've decided to return to the world of Halo costuming. A combination of meeting some local Halo cosplayers as well as Halo: Outpost Discovery reignited my interest. I debated between doing Vale or the Halo 2 ODST, but after various commitments...

www.405th.com

SpartanSweed 's thread will be the secondary build reference thread, as he did the 3D printed method, and has awesome deployment photos.

H2A ODST build

It’s new suit time! In an effort to have a suit that is both easier to transport and easy to wear, I’ve decided to build the incredible looking ODST from Halo 2’s anniversary. Armor files are in the works but first on the to do list was the helmet! The files are Turbos and they’re absolutely...

www.405th.com

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Rookie425 's thread is EXTREMELY useful for the separation of components for references, so stoked I uncovered this. I shall be taking some closer reference shots, as I've got years of experience in SFM.

In-Engine Armor References [Source Film Maker]

Whew. Sorry that took so long, but I've been all over the place as far as my availability over the past months between commissions, personal projects, and a final decision to start writing "that novel" if only I could remember what "that novel" was supposed to be about. Anyways, for this round...

www.405th.com

And lastly Lieutenant Jaku 's thread is useful for the plethora in-game reference images, even though the project itself seems to have died off

H2A ODST Planning/Build

So as the title says I'm planning to make an H2A ODST, so step 1 gathering reference, you'll notice most of these photos are of the back because that's what seemed to be missing online. I'm planning to do foam but seeing as I don't own a printer it may be a while before I actually start...

www.405th.com

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List Of Other Build Threads;
Slayer241489 's Build

Halo 2/Halo 3 ODST hybrid; foam build

Hey guys, I made some halo 3 odst shoulder and chest out of foam from the armory and slapped them onto my previous halo 2 odst cosplay as a last minute halo 3 odst cosplay for halloween and twin cities con this week. I plan to work put more work into it as the year goes by so it looks more...

www.405th.com

Halo 2 Anniversary ODST build foam; 2nd cosplay with foam

Hey y'all, I've seen very little cosplays of the Halo 2 Anniversary ODST. I really like the design of these guys and it looked like something that would have been simple to do and more comfortable for moving around in at a convention for 7+ hours. Got the helmet going along with all the pieces...

www.405th.com

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OTSDerpy 's Build

ODST MK III; “Halo 2 Anniversary”

So I’m going to try something that has been started by many MANY cosplayers, but never really...fell through. If you don’t know what that is, then let me tell you that it’s the “H2A ODST” from the “MCC.” (Master Chief Collection) So far I did a pretty decent job on starting a template...

www.405th.com

SnakeandNape 's Build (Drop-dead gorgeous helmet)

Halo 2 Anniversary ODST

Have always been a big fan of how the ODST looked in halo 2 and have finally decided to start working on 3d printing a set of the armor. I found the 3d files on thingiverse.com if anyone else is interested. Right now I have the helmet printed off and will be working on the chest next.

www.405th.com

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List Of Other H2A Cosplayers (without build threads)

• FuriousFido
• Dat Boi Builds
• ReclaimerODST

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FILES
Titlewaves files have been recommended to me by Sweed, and they look like they're perfect.

Helmet File (Etsy)​

Armour File (Etsy)​

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The file package also includes images of strapping guides, which is a very nice bonus.

If Titlewaves files are too expensive for an entry-level build, there is a free helmet file in the armory.

Halo 2 Anniversary - UNSC ODST

This is a comprehensive zip file including numerous files from multiple artists. Contents of zip-file: halo-2-anniversary-unsc-odst-helmet.pdo Modeler: Satchmo III PRINTABLE FILES halo-2-anniversary-unsc-odst-helmet.stl Modeler: Satchmo III

www.405th.com

Apart from the 3D model from Strider and Titlewaves printable files, the only other body files that I could locate are the Classic Halo 2 ODST .pdo files, located below in the armory.

Halo 2 - UNSC ODST

This is a comprehensive zip file including numerous files from multiple artists. Contents of zip-file: halo-2-unsc-odst-chest.pdo Modeler: Ruze789 halo-2-unsc-odst-helmet.pdo Modeler: Ruze789 halo-2-unsc-odst-shin.pdo Modeler: Ruze789...

www.405th.com

This way someone on a budget could potentially print out a helmet, and pep/foam-work the armour.

mardJaderp 's pepakura unfolds (incomplete)

Pepakura - H2A ODST Cosplay

I've known about 405th for awhile, but it wasn't until now I decided to scroll through the threads. Recently I've gotten into the ODSTs more than the Spartans, but I more specifically gotten into the Halo 2 (Anniversary) ODSTs. For some reason, I find them a bit more appealing than the Halo 3...

www.405th.com

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RELATED PROPS
I plan to use my NERF MA40 repaint as my prop; even though it's not accurate to what the ODST's use in Halo 2, it will suit the vibe of the cosplay, while also not detracting from the Tier 3 application. Potential weapons to create are either the Sniper or BR, however I will cross that bridge when I come to it.

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DEADLINE
My deadline for this project is to be finished before April 2025, as I'll head up to the Gold Coast for Supanova and meet some of the 405th!
I find it good to have a deadline, it'll really push me to complete this build and not let it sit around. HOWEVER, if I do not complete it by that deadline, I will not be rushing and simply move the date to the next con.

Once the build is completed, I will pour effort into making this tread as easy to read as possible, as I am very prone to walls of text.

 

[CYNE 739]

PART ONE: REFERENCES, ARMOUR SCALING AND PREPARATION

REFERENCES
As far as I know, this is official 343 reference art for the Halo 2 Anniversary ODST, made by Sergey Samuilov. Note the minor differences between these images and Abimael's interpretation.

Sergey Samuilov's Model (ArtStation)​

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A commissioned 3D model by Abimael Salazar for Sierra 107, for extreme high-res detail and actions poses. While it's not official Halo art, the artist has mentioned that they have tried their hardest to make it "as close to the original as possible."

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Abimael Salazar's Model (ArtStation)​

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The remastered Day At The Beach cinematic that was cut from Halo 2; useful for surface reflections, wear, movement and out-of-sight pieces on the suit.

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This official rendered poster, useful to see light catchments/textures.

Thugzz Deluxxxe 's Camo Pattern File

ODST Camo 2 Smaller - A repeatable pattern of the Halo 2 Anniversary ODST Camo. 8k version available upon request.

www.405th.com

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The following will be the main reference images I will work off of. (Links to models located in the INTRO)

Front views. (Official left, unofficial right)​

Rear views. (Official left, unofficial right)​

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The main differences to note are;

• The pouch sizes/placement, particularly noticeable around the belt area.
• The side-hip pouch having different styles/colours.
• The black latex material on the sleeves. (official has 2 straps, unofficial is a strapless solid patch)
• The hex pattern on the shoulder drops/waist cape. (Official is more puffy and defined, unofficial is more flat)
• The weathering patterns on the armour.
• The darker colours used on the pouches/straps.

There are essentially 3 layers to the Anniversary design;

• The BDU (Boots, gloves, jacket and pants)
• The shoulder attachment and waistcape.
• The hard armour.

Below are the orthographic views, these will help with how I can visualise the movement and way the middle and outer layers connect and interact.

Red = Visible, Orange = Underneath/Hidden

 

[CYNE 739]

PART TWO: UNDERSUIT

BDU
This jacket and pants combo seems to have accurate colours and semi-accurate camo pattern, however I will end up custom painting the lightest colour into the pattern to make it 1-to-1 match with in-game (see camo pattern above in THREADS). I will need to find some ribbed latex material to cover the side legs, shoulders and forearms to match the references.

MFH ACU Ripstop Field Jacket Night Camo

Buy MFH ACU Ripstop Field Jacket in Night Camo is now for sale at Military 1st online store. We offer the latest trends in military clothing and tactical equipment, and delivery across Australia

www.military1st.com.au

MFH US BDU Combat Trousers Night Camo

MFH US BDU Combat Trousers in Night Camo Camo are for sale now at Military 1st, an online based outdoor store. We offer the latest assortment of army style trousers and quality shorts. Fast delivery within Australia.

www.military1st.com.au

The BDU has arrived: and unfortunately I bare bad news. The jacket and pants do NOT match up colour wise AT ALL, even though on the site the product images and the camo name are the same. Very disappointing for me.

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To avoid further disappointments and to get the camo 1-to-1 accurate, I will now order a plain navy blue BDU set. This way I'll have the base base camo colour, then I can paint on the other one/two colours from this camo pattern reference.

ODST Camo 2 Smaller - A repeatable pattern of the Halo 2 Anniversary ODST Camo. 8k version available upon request.

www.405th.com

ARMY COMBAT UNIFORM SUIT - NAVY BLUE

ARMY COMBAT UNIFORM SUIT

www.militarysurplusworld.com

Propper BDU Coat Polycotton Ripstop Dark Navy

Propper BDU Coat in Dark Navy is on sale now at Military 1st, online based outdoor specialist. We provide an immense assortment of army surplus and camouflage clothes. Fast shipping across Australia.

www.military1st.com.au

Propper BDU Trousers Button Fly Polycotton Ripstop Dark Navy

Propper BDU Button Fly Trousers in Dark Navy colour are in stock now at Military 1st, an online based tactical store. We offer a variety of top quality combat trousers and tactical jackets. Delivery across Australia.

www.military1st.com.au

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GLOVES
There are many gloves that are perfect, however I've chosen the two best; The materials/texures are in the right spots and the hard plating positions match the in-game reference images. Will need to paint the knuckle armour a slight metallic grey to match references, and perhaps paint the fingertips to be a different, cooler colour.

Airsoft Elite Gloves Black - Viper Tactical

We are the UK's central location for all good Airsoft supplies. Featuring Clothing, Safety Equipment, Torches, Tracers, Chronographs, BB's, Batteries, Spares, Magazines, Lasers, Scopes, Sights, Luggage and more! All items in stock and at rock bottom prices in our Airsoft Online Shop!

www.airsoftcentral.co.uk

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Gloves from AliExpress arrived, perfect sizing and colours. Very satisfied.

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Painter's tape applied, now to do a few layers of bright metallic silver spray paint.

Then sealing it off with a semigloss clear coat.

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BOOTS
These boots are cheap and fairly accurate, perfect find.

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Picked them up, they have the perfect texture, shoe cap, outsole and colouring.
Only one thing needed to be altered; taking an exacto blade to the company tag, and simply cut them off.

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The only thing that makes these boots not Tier 3 eligible is the midpanel lining; on the in-game references, the panel and stitch line divert in a 90 degree angle towards the outsole.

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PATCHES
While I have decided to focus on the undersuit, one of the things I thought would be really neat is adding some UNSC/Helljumper patches to the BDU. I have ordered a few of each of the below; if I don't use them for my cosplay, I'll be using them on my jackets or bags!

HALO TACTICAL GRAY/BLACK UNSC PATCH SET - HALO30/40/42 | eBay

3 Patch set as shown in scan. High Quality Embroidered Patch set in Mint Condition.

www.ebay.com

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HALO UNSCDF PATCH - HALO7 | eBay

Find many great new & used options and get the best deals for HALO UNSCDF PATCH - HALO7 at the best online prices at eBay! Free shipping for many products!

www.ebay.com

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https://www.etsy.com/au/listing/939478970/halo-inspired-orbital-drop-shock-trooper?ref=cart

https://www.etsy.com/au/listing/1351192255/custom-callsign-patches-your-own-text?ref=cart

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I'll be sure to attach them in appropriate areas; spots that make sense, while being covered when wearing the armour (as from all reference images, there is no sign of UNSC or Helljumper patches). This way I'll (hopefully) still be able to retain a Tier 3 accurate suit, while making just the undersuit itself it's own costume, separate of the armour.

If I don't get my hard armour done in time for the con/don't want to risk taking it on the flight with me, then I'll still have a soft parts costume I can wear.

These are the Halo related patches, and I will end up using the "HELLJUMPER", ODST and UNSCDF patches for the BDU.

 

[CYNE 739]

PART THREE: SHINGUARDS

saved for future use

There will be 3 different prints for each leg; the kneepad, the front of the shin and the back of the shin.

 

[CYNE 739]

PART FOUR: CHEST PIECE

saved for future use

 

[CYNE 739]

PART FIVE: SHOULDER PIECES

saved for future use

These will be a simple, single 3D-print for each of the shoulder pieces. The public library's printer is super good, no ghosting whatsoever.

 

[CYNE 739]

PART SIX: HELMET

RESEARCH
I have reached out to Branfuhr Studios to see if a full helmet commission is possible, as the two 3D printers available to me don't have an ideal bed space for a helmet print. (Both are 250x250x250). Branfuhr has responded, it's on their list to make a Halo 2 Anniversary ODST helmet. However it will be at least a year until it would be available.

If it's too expensive of an investment for me, I'll have to use the printers I have access to in the meantime.

Even if the whole helmet commission doesn't proceed with Branfuhr, I would try and get the visor from them once my helmet is complete.

Custom Color Halo Helmet Visor | Branfuhr Studios

The next batch of visors will be done in April. Follow my Facebook and Instagram pages for updates. Branfuhr Studios. This listing is for custom color requests only. Please message first to inquire about availability prior to ordering. These are custom made and will need to wait until the next...

www.branfuhrstudios.com

Their purple tinted visors are the perfect colour for a H2A ODST, and they can hopefully get those visor lines super accurate.

I'll hopefully just be able to send them the visor buck, and they'll work their magic!

 

[CYNE 739]

PART SEVEN: STRAPPING AND SECURING

This is where the middle, in-between layer of the cosplay will be crafted.

I am curious about the hex patterned cloth, seen around the thighs, crotch and under the shoulders. I feel that's what's missing from all the builds I've seen, and it's necessary for my own build so I can achieve that Tier 3 rating.

Possibility:​

https://www.joann.com/p/yaya-han-cosplay-stretch-fabric-black-scuba-hexagon/15469265.html

 

[CYNE 739]

PART EIGHT: PAINTING, WEATHERING AND DECALS

PAINTING
saved for future use

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WEATHERING
saved for future use

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DECALING
The decals I will need are "ODST" lettering for the front and back of the chest armour to match the in-game references.

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Other than that, I would love to put a 405th logo on the centre of one of the shoulders, as long as it wouldn't affect my tier.

I would love to then add my own personal logo on the opposite shoulder, as long as it wouldn't change my tier.

 

[CYNE 739]

PART NINE: POUCHES & MISCELLANEOUS DETAILS

REFERENCES AND RESEARCH

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I will need alot of pouches for this build, because there are;

• 4x Small V1 Pouches
• 9x Small V2 Pouches
• 2x Big V1 Pouches
• 1x Big V2 Pouch

There is also a much larger double-mag pouch on each side of the hips not included in the image.

Below are some pouches I have saved that could be used.

SMALL V1;

Condor Small Utility Pouch Black

Black Condor Small Utility Pouch is available now at Military 1st, an online based tactical store. We offer a wide range of tactical vests and MOLLE accessories, and delivery across Australia.

www.military1st.com.au

Flyye Single M4/M16 Magazine Pouch Ver. FE MOLLE Black

Buy this single M4/M16 Magazine Pouch, ver. FE, now at Military 1st, an online based tactical store. Visit our shop for a range of Flyye branded MOLLE accessories, bags and tactical vests. Delivery across Australia.

www.military1st.com.au

Helikon - Smoke Grenade Pouch - MultiCam / Black - MO-GSG-CD-0C

Genuine Products ✅ Helikon - Smoke Grenade Pouch - MultiCam / Black - MO-GSG-CD-0C ®

www.milout.pl

SMALL V2

Outdoor Tactical | 5.11 Sierra Bravo Latex Glove Pouch

5.11€‹ôö Sierra Bravo Duty Pouches are the new standard in utility storage for law enforcement professionals, tactical operators, and private security personnel worldwide. Designed to provide maximum durability in any environment and reliable accessibilit

www.outdoortactical.com.au

Single Ammo Mag Pouch

Single Ammo Mag Pouch - Finding that you're always one mag short? Maybe you don't have anywhere to keep your mags in the first place? Look no further.

www.armyandoutdoors.com.au

BIG V1

Flyye Medical First Aid Kit Pouch Ver. FE MOLLE Black

Black first aid pouch is available now at Military 1st, an online based tactical store. We stock a selection of quality Flyye branded MOLLE accessories, bags and vests, and will deliver to Australia.

www.military1st.com.au

Condor First Response Pouch Black

Black Condor First Response Pouch is on sale now at Military 1st, an online based tactical store. We offer a broad range of tactical vests and MOLLE accessories, and delivery across Australia.

www.military1st.com.au

BIG V2

Tactical Multi Purpose Pouch

Tactical Multi Purpose Pouch - If you're looking for a quality pouch that can be used in a variety of situations, you've found it. Contains a compression sack.

www.armyandoutdoors.com.au

HIP POUCH

Viper M16 Drop Leg Mag Pouch - Airsoft Direct

Viper M16 Drop Leg Mag Pouch available in our webshop!

airsoftdirect.uk.com

Condor Double M4/M16 Magazine Pouch MOLLE Black

Black double M4/M16 magazine pouch from Condor is for sale now at Military 1st, an online based tactical store. Visit our website for a huge range of MOLLE pouches and other accessories. Fast delivery across Australia.

www.military1st.com.au

I may have to purchase some type of leather material for the bottom of certain pouches as well. (ugh).

 

[CYNE 739]

CLOSING THOUGHTS AND TIME/COST BREAKDOWN

Below is the link to my pricing/time consumption table.

Time/Cost Table​

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CLOSING THOUGHTS

blah blah blah, reminiscent words, thoughtful comments. blah blah wholesome thankyou messages to everyone who helped, blah

 

[Slayer241489]

all those are really great reference threads! one of my first builds was a Halo 2 Anniversary ODST and I used those same forums as references. I think H2A is a seriously underrated version of the ODST. It feels so functional and realistic; I felt like I could breathe a lot better in it due to a lack of thigh and forearm armor.

 

[CYNE 739]

all those are really great reference threads! one of my first builds was a Halo 2 Anniversary ODST and I used those same forums as references. I think H2A is a seriously underrated version of the ODST. It feels so functional and realistic; I felt like I could breathe a lot better in it due to a lack of thigh and forearm armor.

Heyo Slayer! I did actually save your build thread when searching, might add a section in "Threads" that don't have a specific role, other than grouping all Halo 2 ODST builds together.

It's my favourite design out of Halo (hence the profile picture I made), it just screams sci-fi while also being grounded. The Halo 3 ODST is iconic, but seems too heavily armoured to be suited to a stealth role imo.

 

[CYNE 739]

Y'know, it's funny. Was scrolling through my Instagram saved folder called "Stuff To Buy", and I just so happen to come across the Titlewave post about this armour, all the way back in February. So it really has been on my mind all year, even if I never committed to it until now.

 

[CYNE 739]

Over the Christmas holidays, I really tried to take more time to rest and enjoy activities with friends, as working 7 days a week for the last 5 months has really drained me creatively. So no progress was made on this project during that time. Thankfully, finishing up my 9-5 job at the end of January (Happy 23rd birthday me) will free up some time to focus on myself, and what I want to do with my life/put out into this world.

The closest work I got done with a Halo 2A ODST was commissioning a player mod for Helldivers 2 , since it's the main game my friends and I keep playing. If any of you are Helldivers too, enjoy it for free over on Nexus down below! It was money well spent.

H2A ODST

Halo 2 Anniversary ODST replaces SR-24 Street Scout.commissioned by @cynedesigns

www.nexusmods.com

 

[Funkyavocado]

Excited to see your progress on this!

Also thanks for the pouch list, this will be useful for my mk V build.

 

[CYNE 739]

Excited to see your progress on this!

Also thanks for the pouch list, this will be useful for my mk V build.

Glad I helped someone out with this thread already! Best of luck with your build, MK V is a classic.

Progress is slow and steady while I work 7 days, more frequent updates will come after January

 

[Crows Carrion]

Looking really good so far CYNE can't wait to see what's next!

 

[SigmaProps]

PART NINE: POUCHES & MISCELLANEOUS DETAILS

REFERENCES AND RESEARCH

​

I will need alot of pouches for this build, because there are;

• 4x Small V1 Pouches
• 9x Small V2 Pouches
• 2x Big V1 Pouches
• 1x Big V2 Pouch

There is also a much larger double-mag pouch on each side of the hips not included in the image.

Below are some pouches I have saved that could be used.

Condor Small Utility Pouch Black

Black Condor Small Utility Pouch is available now at Military 1st, an online based tactical store. We offer a wide range of tactical vests and MOLLE accessories, and delivery across Australia.

www.military1st.com.au

Flyye Single M4/M16 Magazine Pouch Ver. FE MOLLE Black

Buy this single M4/M16 Magazine Pouch, ver. FE, now at Military 1st, an online based tactical store. Visit our shop for a range of Flyye branded MOLLE accessories, bags and tactical vests. Delivery across Australia.

www.military1st.com.au

Flyye Medical First Aid Kit Pouch Ver. FE MOLLE Black

Black first aid pouch is available now at Military 1st, an online based tactical store. We stock a selection of quality Flyye branded MOLLE accessories, bags and vests, and will deliver to Australia.

www.military1st.com.au

Condor First Response Pouch Black

Black Condor First Response Pouch is on sale now at Military 1st, an online based tactical store. We offer a broad range of tactical vests and MOLLE accessories, and delivery across Australia.

www.military1st.com.au

Helikon - Smoke Grenade Pouch - MultiCam / Black - MO-GSG-CD-0C

Genuine Products ✅ Helikon - Smoke Grenade Pouch - MultiCam / Black - MO-GSG-CD-0C ®

www.milout.pl

Viper M16 Drop Leg Mag Pouch - Airsoft Direct

Viper M16 Drop Leg Mag Pouch available in our webshop!

airsoftdirect.uk.com

Condor Double M4/M16 Magazine Pouch MOLLE Black

Black double M4/M16 magazine pouch from Condor is for sale now at Military 1st, an online based tactical store. Visit our website for a huge range of MOLLE pouches and other accessories. Fast delivery across Australia.

www.military1st.com.au

I may have to purchase some type of leather material for the bottom of certain pouches as well. (ugh).

*Yoink* Totally gonna use this as a resource for pouches in the future, awesome work man!

 

[CYNE 739]

*Yoink* Totally gonna use this as a resource for pouches in the future, awesome work man!

Go right ahead, glad this thread is already helping people! O7

The links I have there are mostly Aussie domains (cause we're the best), but I'd assume Military1st have other locations.