I'm sure many of you have already noticed, but there seems to be a blending of equipment categories these days.  I think what is happening, is that various folks, who are training, for various reasons, have found airsoft and mil-sim equipment to be very close to their needs.  And to be expected, really, there is some back-lash from "main-line", or "mil-spec" dealers, who feel their toes are being stepped on.  So topics, such as Somo Gear vs Invisible Sights have been transferred here.  

And I for one think this is a logical move.  It gives the member/customer a choice in products, without all the argey-bargey.  If you want/need mil-spec equipment, you can read of that in another forum.  If you want/need mil-sim or hybrid equipment, you can read about that here.    And the hope is that more airsoft/milsim dealers will pick up on a broader range of products and advertise them here, even as site sponsors.  

On the IP stuff.  I have seen a few vendors actually put their own logos, or put the original ones on, under license.  I think this is good trend and hope to see it expand.  That way we can continue to enjoy alternative products.

On quality and/or actual usefulness with Real Steel even.  We are seeing a steady improvement in some categories, as the more discerning players are demanding RS characteristics for their weapons accessories and equipment.  For example the past quality of viz/IR lasers has been shown to suck, when engaged in a 24-48 hr scenario training event.  So some vendors are upping their game.  This has caught the attention of some of us, looking for alternatives to high-priced mil-spec stuff.  

The hope is, we can discuss that here, and see what works, and what doesn't.