Why Multicam Was Replaced by OCP — and Who Still Uses It Today
Posted by AKmax Tactical | www.akmax.shop
🎯 Introduction
Multicam — the pattern that once redefined battlefield concealment — was the go-to camo for U.S. troops in Afghanistan and beyond. But why did the military decide to move on and adopt OCP (Operational Camouflage Pattern)? And more importantly, who still wears Multicam today?
In this post, we explore the reasons behind the transition and highlight the groups and environments where Multicam continues to thrive.
🟫 The Rise of Multicam
Developed by Crye Precision in the early 2000s, Multicam gained popularity for its versatility across multiple environments — from arid desert to lush woodland. It became widely used during the Global War on Terror and was officially adopted as a temporary replacement for the U.S. Army’s ineffective UCP (Universal Camouflage Pattern) in 2010, especially for soldiers deployed to Afghanistan.
Multicam offered:
• Blending capabilities across varied terrain
• Superior concealment in transitional environments
• A modern, aggressive aesthetic favored by troops
🟧 The Shift to OCP
So why was Multicam replaced?
In 2015, the U.S. Army adopted OCP (Scorpion W2) as its new standard-issue camouflage. While visually similar to Multicam, OCP is a government-owned variant — allowing the Army more control over licensing, production, and costs.
Key reasons for the switch:
• Cost-efficiency: OCP avoids paying licensing fees to Crye Precision
• Uniformity: A standardized pattern across all Army units
• Logistics: Easier supply chain management for mass production
The OCP rollout was completed around 2019, making it the official combat uniform pattern for most U.S. Army personnel.
🟩 Who Still Uses Multicam Today?
Despite being phased out as standard issue in the Army, Multicam is far from dead.
Here’s where it still dominates:
✅ 1. Special Operations Forces
Elite units such as U.S. Army Rangers, Navy SEALs, and other SOCOM elements continue to use Multicam for its performance in diverse operational theaters.
✅ 2. Allied Militaries
NATO and partner nations — including the UK, Australia, Poland, and others — issue Multicam variants or derivatives to their troops.
✅ 3. Private Military Contractors & Security Personnel
Multicam remains a preferred choice due to its global recognition and trusted effectiveness.
✅ 4. Airsoft & Tactical Enthusiasts
In civilian life, Multicam is iconic. It’s widely used in the airsoft community, by bushcrafters, and gear collectors for its cool factor and authenticity.
✅ 5. Law Enforcement
Select tactical teams and SWAT units still choose Multicam for specific mission profiles.
🟨 Final Thoughts
Multicam may have lost its place as the U.S. Army’s official camo, but its legacy and effectiveness keep it alive in tactical circles around the world.
Whether you’re training in the backcountry, collecting field gear, or just love the look — Multicam still earns its place in modern loadouts.
🛒 Explore our Multicam-ready gear here:
#Multicam #OCP #TacticalGear #CamoHistory #MilitaryStyle #AKmax