Many years ago, Ian Hillson owner and founder of Tactical Kit found himself stuck in a 9-5 job, working for an Insurance company. Not wanting to be stuck behind a desk for the rest of his life he decided he wanted to pursue a career in something he felt passionate about.  Being a keen airsofter for over 10 years, he spotted a gap in the market to provide high end, good quality equipment and that’s how Tactical Kit was born.

“I remember when I first got into Airsoft, it was challenging knowing where to buy equipment. I would get recommendations from friends to go to sites just to find they would have no stock. Then if I found a site and the size was wrong and needed something changed the customer service was poor to say the least,” says Ian. “I knew if I was to create a site I would need to do something about this.”

Over the past 3 years, Tactical kit has gone from strength to strength, from stocking just a few brands, they now boast over 39 brands from companies like 5.11, Blackhawk, Surefire, ESS, Magpul. In addition to the well-known brands, with Ian’s contacts, he’s also been able to source equipment that other retails can't like EOTech Holographic sights and Aimpoint.

“Airsofters like having Gucci gear, being able to meet the demand has meant I can within reason get hold of anything they need," Ian claims.

The website had proven to be so popular but feedback suggested that at times it was challenging to find what they were looking for, so the decision was made to give the site a facelift.

In addition to the website, Tactical Kit has also made the leap on Facebook and Twitter too. For those who want to keep up to date with daily updates you can become a fan and those of you who use twitter can watch #tacticalkit.

As part of the facelift, Tactical Kit are also running a prize draw: for every order on the site over £50 who use the voucher code “FREEHAT10” will receive a free 5.11 2010 Limited Edition Contractors cap with one lucky winner receiving a Surefire E2 Torch. Apparently stocks are limited, so make sure you get yours soon enough before they run out.

So where is Ian now? Well, he’s no longer stuck behind a desk 9-5. From their Peterborough based site, he is busy fulfilling customer orders and looking at new areas to branch into. He had finally said goodbye to the rat race.

Still being a keen Airsofter you will find him most weekends being a Marshall at Urban Assault, RAF Upwood making sure games run smoothly.

“Now I get the best of both worlds, I get to play airsoft and supply my customers with the best possible equipment at the best possible price.

What kit do you run?

Magpul M4 with Systema workings, EoTech Holographic sight. My favourite rig is a Tactical Tailor MAV. I like the contractor look and run with 5.11 Tac Light Pro pants with Warrior Wear Ops Jacket oh and 5.11 boots.  I also wouldn’t leave the house without my Blackhawk Serpa drop leg holder for my Glock.

The airsoft team I run with is F.S.G (Fire Support Group) these were the guys I’ve been playing with since I got into the sport. I usually play at RAF Upwood, Bulby Hall Wood for our woodlands games and been to The Mall in Reading a few times, well worth a visit.

If you would like more information about Tactical Kit you can visit their website www.tactical-kit.co.uk, email sales-at-tactical-kit.co.uk or speak to Ian directly on 01733 331276.