Yes this system cost me a lot of money but I can only do this once...it will take me 10 years to save to upgrade some of it.
How I saved money...H'mmm...Just think of a desert...no Walmart, strip malls, fast food eateries, movie theaters and nightclubs, and theme parks...very limited number of eligible or desirable women, no rent (live in tents)or utilites bills, grocery bills (eat MRES and T rations 3 times a day), no car exepenses, no phone bill, no beer or alcohol tab, no summer vacatiion, no fees for fitness center, solarium (sun was freee, all 18 hours of it) or gym fees (sweat 20 pounds off walking), and finally no enjoyment in life! Just a searing, wind swept, sandy @!^ desert!
Received tax free income, hardship pay, iminent danger pay, and basic pay and allowances. Single with no wife, girlfriend,, kids, dogs, cats, fish or any other pet.... do not smoke, drink, gamble or indulge in any other habits.
Now see how I saved for this gear?