I am being shipped out to basic in a couple of days and just trying to tie up some loose ends on my knowledge of what I'm getting myself into so I don't seem so ignorant going in... First question: Do you get to decide what weapon or weapon class you get to carry while overseas? (i.e. M16, M4, etc; or Rifle, Sniper Rifle, Support, etc.)

Second Question: Are you allowed to purchase your own weaponry and utilize it overseas? I have a feeling that's going to be a no, but I thought it was worth asking.

Third Question: Are you allowed customization to your liking/will or is it basically whatever they give you? (i.e. reflex scopes, standard scopes, NV scopes, green dot, lasers, etc.)

Final Question: I am currently coded as 18X so if there are any experienced 18X's out there could you answer this; are there any major differences in the equipment and/or weaponry that the SF's carry compared to standard army personnel?

I realize that these might seem like stupid questions and I would really like to make it known that I'm not one of those individuals joining the army thinking life is like a video game and that you can 'choose/customize' your own equipment, but these questions are one of the few big questions I have been left unanswered by my recruiter and I feel like it is necessary to find the answers to them. Thank you for what I'm sure will be a rapid response to my inquiries.

M JONES

Question :
1. No, you will be assigned the weapon the Chain of Command decides you will use.
2. No, only in very rare cases would you possibly be allowed to carry a personal weapon.
It is more likely, if you were to make it to SF, you will carry a weapon modified to your liking. Getting a privately owned weapon out of and back into the country would require you to smuggle it. Not a real good idea, unless you'd like an extended tour of Leavenworth.
3. No, for the most part. You'll be issued what you need.
4. Yes, SF uses some different weapons from outside the normal supply channels.

How does the Chain of Command decide what you will carry? Would that be based on your performance during the marksmanship courses during basic?

You will be a Rifleman when you get to your unit. They won't really care or be impressed by how or what you did in Basic Training. It's just that, Basic. Your real learning comes after you finish your training, when you get to your unit.
After you've had a chance to prove youself to your CoC, you may be moved up to 203 Gunner, SAW Gunner or the M240 team. All those are rungs on the responsibility ladder. Of course,I knew guys who spent four years as a Rifleman. No dishonor in that.