Scout Camouflage Part 1

In modern times camouflage has become more about Unit/army identification than actual concealment, with the exception of a few specialties. It is worn as a uniform and less for its concealment as is seen by the Ukraine/Russian conflict where one or both sides is wearing bright colored tape over the top of their camouflage uniform.

True camouflage about concealment but is more than just blending in—it’s about becoming invisible to the eye and undetectable to the senses beyond just visual. For scouts, mastering camouflage is critical for survival, reconnaissance, and taking the tactical advantage when you are alone or in a smaller unit than your adversary.

Know Your Environment

The foundation of camouflage, just like situational awareness, lies in understanding the "baseline" of your environment—the natural state of the terrain, vegetation, lighting, and ambient conditions. In short, don't dress like your in the desert when your in the jungle. The baseline is what you must mimic to disappear. Whether you're in a dense forest, arid desert, or urban sprawl, failing to match the baseline makes you stand out like a sore thumb.

Study your surroundings or the location you will be in. Note the dominant colors, textures, and patterns. Is the ground littered with leaves or sand? Are there sharp contrasts in light and shadow? Understanding these details allows you to blend seamlessly. For example, a scout in a deciduous forest in autumn needs earthy tones and irregular patterns, while a desert operative might prioritize sandy hues and smooth textures. Match the camo you choose to the environment you will be in.

Testing

Test your camouflage under realistic conditions. Take a pouch or piece of clothing in the patterns you are considering and place them in the environment. then take some steps back and see how they look from different distances and light to see what works best.

You can also sit or stalk through the terrain and have a partner observe you from different angles and distances. Use binoculars or Night vision optics to simulate an enemy’s perspective. Adjust based on what stands out. Testing ensures your setup holds up under scrutiny.

The Seasons

Unless you somewhere like the desert or the jungle chances are your environment is going to change with the seasons so you will need to factor this in and go through this process for each season.

The 9 S's of Camouflage