Navy SEALs VBSS Commander 1991

Updated: 9/1/26

This represents one of the legendary Navy SEALs VBSS setup in the early 1990s. The reference is based on a book called SEAL Combat Boarding Manual, Paladin Press, ISBN 0-87364-686-X. This book is considered as the Bible of the Navy SEALs VBSS gear collection guide. We have been examining the gear set in this book for decades. A special thank you to the input from great collectors and friends around the globe; we are thrilled to share this exciting photo album with everyone. It is still a work in progress. We will keep adding new images and update. If you wish to contribute, it would be greatly appreciated. For all dedicated collectors looking to complete this collection set, please refer to the Q&A section below. We also plan to add a session here where we can post photos of your collections.

Gear list:

Reference: SEAL Combat Boarding Manual. Paladin Press, ISBN 0-87364-686-X.
US Navy Flight Deck Helmet with Modified Motorola Headset, dual comm set up. (SWG Replica).
Standard sand wind goggles, Kroops skydiving goggles, Gargoyles ballistic glasses.
UDT life vest.
AOA TP1E body armor with flotation bladder.
AOA TPIE curved front and back armor plates. (Special thanks from Mr. H).
Modular assault Vest with QRV snap pouches, and slim backpack.
SPIE Harness.
Troll Whillans Sit harness.
ALICE military web belt.
Eagle Industries old gen SAS P226 holster.
Leatherman Multitool.
Operator made coiled pistol lanyard.
Bianchi leather pistol mag holster.
Olive drab ABA M14 drop leg pouch.
M17 gas mask bag, holds MCU2P gas mask.
ALICE military pouches: water canteen pouch, M16 mag pouch, first aid kit pouch.
M6 bayonet.
American handcuff.
Zip-Tie handcuffs.
Signal Mirror.
SDU-5 strobe with IR cover.
Safety light stick (1990s), Pencil flare, Signal flare.
Magic marker.
Various carabiners and bungee retention cord.
Motorola MX300R radio.
Motorola MX300R Handmic.
HST-4A satcom, KY57 Encryption unit, connection cable. (Photo from googles images / Ebay ).
CWU-27/P Nomex flight suit.
Nomex flight gloves, Military cattlehide leather Heavy duty work rappelling gloves, Black D3A leather gloves.
Seiko 7548 dive watch.
Hi-tec Magnum boots.
Adidas GSG9 boots.
Ordnance: M116A1, M7A2 CS, MK3A2. (Photo from googles images).
MP5-N machine gun. (Photo from googles images).
H&K 3 point MP5 sling.
Sig P226 pistol. (Photo from googles images).
Gunshot medical kit.
IV medical kit.

Q&A:

Q: What is the purpose of SWG creating this page?
A: Our objective is to curate a comprehensive showcase of every piece of gear associated with this iconic setup, thereby resolving the ambiguity often found in the black and white, blurred photographs. We aspire for this album to serve as a valuable resource, and we hope that one day a dedicated collector can facilitate the assembly of all items in one location.

Q: What are the steps to create a dual comm Motorola headset?
A: The images depict a non-operational replica we constructed. The process is quite intricate, and the parts are challenging to source due to their age. We intend to create a DIY page in the future. Stay tuned.

Q: Do you have more details on the TP1E body armor flotation bladder?
A: Unfortunately, SWG does not have access to the mysterious TP1E flotation bladder. We can only locate the inflation tube. The bladder can be custom-made for the teams. We would appreciate any extra information you might have on it.

Q: Are GSG9 boots disintegrating?
A: The soles of the GSG9 boots are deteriorating rapidly; they don’t last long, buy at your own risk.

Q: What about the Motorola MX300R self-destruction?
A: The skin of the MX300R radio is coming apart. White glue can be used to reattach it. Applying silicone spray can help prolong its lifespan.

Q: I can't seem to find the troll sit harness?
A: The troll harness shown in the boarding manual is an early generation model. It lacks holster adjustment straps on the waist belt. A solid white color harness is nearly impossible to obtain. SWG has observed some harnesses dyed in black.

Q: Is the modular assault vest an ABA vest?
A: No, it is not an ABA vest. It is a QRV vest. The QRV MP5 panel has a square bottom, unlike the flat bottom of an ABA pouch panel. The two small QRV pouches do not have snaps at the front. Additionally, the QRV vest features a smaller radio pouch at the back, which cannot accommodate an MX300R radio. The operator must cut open one side of the pouch to fit the radio inside.

Q: Are there any manufacturers creating dummy ordnance for this gear set?
A: Yes, many companies produce dummy ordnance and 3D print replicas based on the materials featured in the boarding manual. If you're fortunate, some surplus stores or auction websites occasionally offer inert ordnance for sale, though it can be quite pricey.

Q: Does the Radio Backpack not have a side pocket?
A: The QRV backpack is designed to be slim. Unlike an ABA backpack, it does not include side pockets.

Q: Finding the radios is very difficult?
A: You are correct. However, we have noticed a variety of different 3D radio models featured on numerous 3D printing websites, e.g. the MX300R radio. Perhaps there will be a 3D printed model available in the future.

Q: Is the Eagle Industries P226 holster different from mine?
A: The Eagle Industries P226 is an earlier generation model; the snap closure strap is securely sewn and is not adjustable like the later versions.

Q: Which model of the ABA drop leg pouch should I choose, M16 or M4?
A: First, it’s olive green based on the reference photo, not black. It’s a M14 pouch panel, as the M16 pouch cannot accommodate two M116A1.

Q: What type of first aid kit pouch is recommended for me?
A: There are two kinds of GI first aid pouches (long and short); opt for the long one.

Q: How can I invertedly attach the M17 gas mask pouch to a web belt?
A: SWG added an ALICE clip mounting webbing bar on the back of the gas mask pouch for easy attachment. Some straps are also removed.

Q: Will the signal mirror fit inside a SDU-5E pouch?
A: Yes, but it may be very tight and difficult to snap the pouch closed.

Q: Can you recommend a good brand of airsoft MP5 BB guns?
A: VFC, a Taiwanese company, produces excellent airsoft MP5 BB guns that are full metal, gas blowback, and highly realistic.

Q: Can I add to this album?
A: Absolutely, the album isn't finished yet, and we welcome your contributions to support our community.

Q: Specwargear, you are mistaken!!
A: This webpage has been created to the best of our knowledge. If there are any errors, we would appreciate your input. We welcome your comments.

Q: After checking this album, I have further inquiries.
A: SWG invites your questions, please feel free to reach out to us.