Keeping to the Basics

So I was reading a blog post some time ago, and the author had a very intriguing series of questions. The premise was that he had been asked by another party to write an article on basic arms, equipment, and training for a standing militia - "militia" as originally described by the US Constitution:

Every able-bodied man between the ages of 17 - 45. 

Even today, that definition is applicable to what was redefined in The Militia Act of 1903 as the "reserve militia." However, this post is not designed to discuss the definition of the militia, or even to suggest whether we need one (we do, as it is fundamental to the defending of human rights). I won't even argue the merits of women serving in militia capacities, should they so choose (they should).

What interested me were the questions the blog author asked of himself, and on which he requested input from readers:

• What arms should be considered acceptable for militia use? Considering that the M4/M/16 platform is the military standard and shares 80%  parts commonality with the AR-15 for repair, maintenance, and resupply purposes, I’m having a hard time accepting an argument for anything other than an AR-15 from a logical point of view… but I’m open to persuasion.  I’m less interested in pistols and shotguns because of their comparatively limited use.
• how expansive the ” standard kit” should be? Should it just be the rifle, mags, ammo cleaning kit, and something to carry it all, or should it include sustenance equipment?
• What should be considered a minimal level of acceptable training and competency?
• Should a minimal level of  physical conditioning be part of the requirement, and if so, what is that minimal standard?

Excellent questions! Let's tackle them, in order. But first, another definition. I shall define the militia-member, who is the subject of this line of questions, as a "minuteman." The term shall apply for both genders, and is derived from the Revolutionary War period militiaman of the same status. It should go without saying that a true minuteman would have all weapons and gear easily accessible so as to be able to be ready to fight for his freedom with these things in tow within sixty seconds of being notified.


What arms should be considered acceptable for militia use? 
I agree 100% with the author that if there was a standard, that standard should be the minuteman's preference of AR15 rifle or carbine. Sights, optics, and other accessories should be left to the personal preferences and tastes of the individual minuteman.

While the AK, the M1A, and other platforms would serve well, in the end, they would be less preferable. The AK does not have the accuracy potential, the reliability, nor the interchangeability when compared to an AR15. The M1A is heavier, harder to handle, has harsher recoil, and is not useable by as wide a variety of people. In the right hands, either platform is more than suitable... but that's a big qualifying statement.

In short - use another platform if you must. Shoot the AR15 if at all possible.


How expansive the ” standard kit” should be? Should it just be the rifle, mags, ammo cleaning kit, and something to carry it all, or should it include sustenance equipment?
Rifle. Ammo. Mags. Cleaning kit. Whatever that minuteman feels would be appropriate in a field rucksack for staying out of doors for 1-3 days.


What should be considered a minimal level of acceptable training and competency?
Be able to hit 20" targets with primary rifle out to 300 meters (one reason why the AK won't make my "approved" list).
Be able to clear malfunctions on their own rifle. 


Should a minimal level of physical conditioning be part of the requirement, and if so, what is that minimal standard?
Be able to walk/run 5k (3.1 miles) with their gear (or weight equivalent) in 60 minutes or less. 


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