ITS Tactical in an interview: "Those who do not learn something new every day are doing something wrong"

01/30/2015By Redaktion

I'm sorry, I cannot translate the text as it contains HTML elements, image sources, and links which need to remain as they are in the original language.

ITS Tactical is a constant source of good knowledge for those interested in the practice of wild living. Tactical information can be found here as well as survival tips, gear ideas, and reviews. Few sites are as versatile as ITS Tactical. The founder of ITS Tactical is Bryan Black. We invited him for a conversation to find out how he found his way into the tactical community, what is important to him about ITS Tactical, and what the logo is meant to represent.

SPARTANAT: Brian, why did you join the Navy back then and how did you come up with the idea to start ITS Tactical?
Bryan Black: My motivation goes way back. It has a lot to do with setting a goal for myself at the age of twelve: I wanted to become a Navy SEAL. This desire was always with me. Then came September 11th, which deeply affected me, leading me to take the first step. At that point, I was not in shape and not ready for the journey, so I started training. It took two whole years to get physically there and to feel mentally prepared to sign up for BUD/S. I did well in BUD/S (Basic Underwater Demolition/SEALs), but after the "Hellweek," I suffered an injury, tearing my hip flexor muscle. That was not very good, so I dropped back to the next class. With that class, I made it to the final weeks of the second phase - and then during the Draeger Hell Week, I experienced an air embolism (air entered the bloodstream) due to a faulty breathing hose. For someone who has been diving since the age of twelve, this new setback - now due to diving - was not easy to bear ... I have always been someone who believes that everything happens for a reason. The potential long-term effects led to my exit from the Navy. I went back to school and completed my degree.

SPARTANAT: What motivated you to start ITS Tactical?
Bryan Black: When I finished my Bachelor's in Communication Science (Web Design), I had also healed from my injuries and then gave BUD/S another try - even though it meant starting all over again. I went through the entire assessment process again, only to ultimately be rejected by the Medical Boards. They decided that I was to be permanently discharged from service due to a diving accident - even though I had an honorable discharge and a possible "reenlistment code" for re-enlistment. During my university years, I ran my own web design company. With that knowledge, my Navy experience, additional journalism experience, work at a photo studio, and my already developed passion for gear and the Navy, ITS was born. At that time, there weren't many sources for reviews of tactical products. Military Morons published good reviews, and Soldier Systems Daily began "Daily Product Updates." But I knew I could also contribute something different to the "industry." Something that aligned with my passion, namely forgotten know-how and other disdained things.

SPARTANAT: One of the reasons why ITS Tactical is so successful is that you actively involve the community in your site, projects, and events.
Bryan Black: When I started, I knew everything revolved around the community. That's what I've always strived for since day one of ITS. Comments and engaging with readers through social media are key to ITS's success. I'm proud to say that we were the pioneers in our industry in this regard. Video reviews and DIY projects have also helped us connect with our viewers and captivate them. That's how our community grew...

SPARTANAT: When did you first see a reason to produce gear that doesn't exist yet?
Bryan Black: Reviewing gear gives you an idea of what you would do differently. And you know what's already on the market. Our goal with our own products was never to become a full-fledged gear company. We just want to supply a niche with products that aren't available elsewhere. For example, our ETA Trauma Kit: Around 2009, there was nothing comparable available for "civilians." The ETA was the first product I was determined to bring to market. I think having the knowledge to save your own life or someone else's is something very important. I wanted to enable people to buy such equipment freely and easily, or at least have the right medical equipment on hand as first responders to save lives.

SPARTANAT: Can you describe one of your typical workdays?
Bryan Black: Sure, although I don't think I have a typical workday. I always try to give back as much as I receive, that's how I learn and it's better for me. I like to start my day with a workout, whether it's jogging, swimming, or PT. Then it's always feeding the coffee monster before heading to work. Lately, I've been trying to clear my inbox at the end of each day. I often film, take pictures, or write something for ITS - and try to stay in a rhythm there. Even in my spare time, I try to give back, such as spending time with my son's scout troop. I'm happy to have the opportunity to witness ITS grow into what I've always dreamed of. And it gets better every day. We've been doing this for several years now, and it's no longer a one-man job. I have an equally dedicated and passionate team. And I'm proud to call all of them my friends.

SPARTANAT: Can you explain the meaning of the ITS Tactical logo?
Bryan Black: When I first wanted to draw the ITS logo, I knew I wanted to combine three elements: defense, knowledge, and humility. The shield represents defense against impending threats, whether domestic or foreign. The skull represents humility. It's essential to keep your eyes and ears open to allow the mind to absorb information. If you're not learning something every day, you're doing something wrong. The information, knowledge, and solutions absorbed at ITS help defend against future threats. In this sense, the symbol forms a closed circle.