I agree with Candice... to a point. If you are making honest to god tactical items, designed to be used in possibly a COMBAT situation.... you will be using at least a #69 nylon thread, 92 is you can get it and it works in your machine. MY rotory hook machines will not play nicely with that weight of thread, though the ols 27 and 128 with a vibrating shuttle handle it easily. also BAR tacks are used in a lot of places ( MOLLE strips ) and you will need a zig zag stich for that..... if you are doing it for strength in seam say to fastem the straps on... you are actually better served with a "box X" ( think seat belts) but true MOLLE strip will need bar tacks.
Also if you are going to be doing more than the few pieces, not only will you not want to drop the feed dogs, you will want a walking foot and/or needle feed. this type of work is REALLY much easier and better done with a true industrial machine.
if you need to ask specidic question on methods and practices for working with heavy build ups and taped edges etc... there is a forum I can recomend that deals strictly with DIY tactical gear.
Good luck
Dan
Last edited by greywuuf; 07-26-2012 at 10:05 AM.