Tactical Field Notebook Covers

By Denise Duff - Store Manager (Factory Store)

I was asked to write an article on our Field Book Covers and 3 Ring Binder Covers and I thought “What a great idea!” I knew from working at the Oromocto store for the past 9 months that our Field Journal Case with Checklist Protector is one of our most popular items. So I knew there was quite a need for them amongst military members. After really thinking about my task I became more than a little nervous. I wasn't sure if I was "qualified" to write about Field Journal Covers. The owner, Mark Wheeler, had a great suggestion to help me write my article, he told me to “talk to the experts”. Mark suggested that I "interview" the soldiers, the people who use our Military Field Book Covers, Squad Leader Book Covers and 3 Ring Binder Cases. Over the past couple of months I have been talking to the soldiers who come into the store and this is what I have come to learn...

First – Military members who use any one of our Field Journal Cases love them! If they are responsible for having an information journal they want a Field Journal Case protecting it. I think everyone at some point has had the frustration of trying to write on wet paper. We all try to find ways to avoid it; I know many people who use not only the Tactical Book Cover but also RITE paper (a waterproof paper) and RITE pens (a waterproof pen) to get around this problem. It has also been such a wet spring it really reinforces the importance of having something such as a 3 Ring Binder Cover to keep those important notes and documents dry. Mud and dirt is also a problem during field operations and our machine washable Field Book Covers makes sure they are easy to care for. As I have learned do not put your Field Journal Case in the dryer because extreme heat can damage the waterproofing; just remember to hang it up to dry after washing it.

The funny thing is I have so many soldiers coming in to our Oromocto Store look at the Field Book Covers and say I have one similar to this and I'd love to have the newer version but mine is still good. “It seems as though they last forever!” I have been told. We have had many people tell us how they have had their 3 Ring Binder Covers for 10 or 15 plus years and are still in great shape. So, after talking to many soldiers, I've decided the new recruits are the ones that are buying the Field Book Covers mostly. I cannot recall how many times someone on a new course comes in looking for a Field Journal Cover on the recommendation of someone who already owns one. We love to hear that our products are so useful to soldiers out in the field and that they pass the good word on to new recruits.

The smaller Field Journal Cases are great for working in the field and tight quarters. They can fit into most pockets, Berry Pouches and Pat Pouches. The nylon pull tab makes it easy to get at the Field Book Covers quickly. They help to keep your notepads and checklist protectors organized. If you are a troop working outside in the field then one of the smaller Field Message Book Covers are great. Also if you are in and out of the tanks and need the convenience of having your arms free then the Leg Board Panel is a great option for you.

The larger Zippered 3 Ring Binder Covers are great for anyone who needs to brief a group of soldiers out in the field. I've been told that the paper work out there can be a "nightmare" and with the help of a good case like a Tactical Leaders Admin Case it makes life a little easier when out in the elements. These cases are so versatile that they are great no matter if you are on course like the RECCE, INFANTRY, MACHINE GUNNER or even your MCPL or SGT course. We all know how organization in any line of work can reduce a substantial amount of headaches. I can remember one guy who was excited because our 3 Ring Binder Cover had two pockets for markers one row for permanent markers and one for non-permanent. So it sounds like whether you are out in the field briefing, on a course or working in Garrison on a daily basis one of these cases is a must have.

Last but not least – It is that time of year when many courses are on the go. If you’re considering purchasing a Field Note Journal or Junior General Case you can come into our Oromocto Mall location or place an order online (www.cpgear.com). Both are great places for one stop shopping. While your there you can purchase other field essentials and many items to fill up any one of our cases with anything from Fisher Space Pens, Rite in the Rain paper, Field Message Pads, Page Protectors and even a carabineer to attach keys. Hope to see you soon!