Speaking as both a soldier and a SWAT team member... I can say that in the ARMY, you get what they issue you. On occassion, you may sneak a piece of gear (that wasn't neccessarily authorized) by your platoon sergeant but usually, you made do with what you had. Our Department purchases us some pretty decent gear to include Colt Commandos w/ Surefire M500's. That being said, we still have to purchase a great deal of tertiary gear that isn't neccessarily thought of as being "needed" by the administration. Mostly lighting and load bearing equipment that makes life a little easier in the field.