Trader John's Outpost — Local services in South Elgin

Like most surplus stores, this place has the opportunity to gouge their prices and take advantage of their customers-BUT NOT THESE GUYS!! Not only are they extremely friendly but, they are very knowledgeable. I anticipated this place having very little as far as selection and let me say I couldn't have been more wrong! Don't judge a book by its cover! Huge selection! I'm a bigger guy and guess what? Even my size was available and, not just with a limited amount of clothes, either. I will definitely be back, if not for anything else but, the outstanding customer service. Finally, their prices where cheaper than anywhere else that I researched. They either were very competitive price wise or much lower than anywhere else. Don't waste your time with the other places. It's almost an hour drive for me and I will still drive there beyond...

BLUF: Great place for surplus!

■Parking can be tight and is limited. ■Look for the "First Sergeant" rank insignia on a yellow sign. ■Lots of boots and clothing items. ■Camo netting, backpacks, rucks, E-tools, toys for children to construct, plastic army men, first aid equipment, humanitarian rations, mess kits, morale patches, pins, you name it. ■They constantly aquire new inventory, so checking back regularly is advised. ■PX or NEX out of what you need or just flat out don't carry it? Check here if you're able, they just might... ■Friendly enough staff, Elvis songs playing on the radio, and the surplus does all the decorating.

Overall, an oasis in the desert of Illinois...

I had an awesome time at this place. Their selection of uniforms and gear are impeccable. The people I talked to there are pretty cool as well. The smell of the place is glory and paradise. I love their availability for ALICE pouches and MOLLE as well. Some of the vests already have plates in them and I think that's pretty dope. One item that stood out to me was the Booty Camp shorts. I think that's pretty glorious, but I didn't get to buy one at that time. Overall, I love this place and the people and I...