I was wondering if anyone knew when the BHI Commando chest rig started to be used by the USSF? Which groups used them? Pictures of them in use would be great as well.

don't ask me why, but you'll see the earlier models of them (made circa 94/early 95) almost exclusively used by usaf combat controllers. Then the later Us made models (95/98) started spreading between USN members. Green Berets are seen using almost only the mexican/korean/vietnam made (made after 1999). I don't think i've stumbled to a Us army soldier wearing one before 9/11 (while as i said Usaf and USN were already using it).

obviously it is a rule of thumb, we are talking about aftermarket items everyone could buy.
This is the very first model, no buckles or buttons on the pouches, only velcro (almost a direct copy of british early arktis rig, as Blackhawk seems to have taken great inspiration from british items) worn by a combat controller.


belt loops on your tan one have been probably cut off, since these rigs always had them.