The Army Navy Store: Where to Find Outdoor and Tactical Gear in South Carolina

What The Army Navy Store carries and where to find locations

The Army Navy Store is a chain of retail shops that stock outdoor clothing, camping equipment, tactical gear, and military-surplus items. In South Carolina, you'll find locations in major cities and towns where locals and visitors browse everything from backpacks and boots to field jackets and survival kits. The stores cater to people gearing up for camping trips, hiking, hunting, or everyday outdoor work, as well as those interested in military history and collectibles.

Each location carries a mix of new merchandise and surplus stock—some items are genuine military surplus, while others are new-production gear made to military or tactical specifications. The inventory varies by store, so what you find in Charleston may differ from what's stocked in Greenville or Myrtle Beach. Staff at these locations typically have experience with outdoor gear and can point you toward what works for your specific activity.

Key Takeaways

• Army Navy Store locations across South Carolina stock outdoor clothing, camping gear, tactical equipment, and military surplus items for camping, hiking, and outdoor work.
• Inventory includes both genuine military surplus and new-production gear, with stock varying between individual store locations.
• Staff can help you select appropriate footwear, outerwear, and packs for specific outdoor activities and weather conditions.
• Prices for surplus items are often lower than new retail gear, making the store useful for budget-conscious outdoor enthusiasts.

Types of gear you can find there

Footwear is a major category—combat boots, hiking boots, work boots, and tactical shoes in various sizes and conditions. Some are new, some are surplus stock that has been cleaned and inspected. Outerwear includes field jackets, parkas, rain gear, and fleece layers, often in olive drab, tan, or camouflage patterns. You'll also find base layers, socks, and hats designed for outdoor use.

Packs and bags range from small tactical pouches to large rucksacks and backpacks suitable for multi-day trips. Camping and survival gear includes sleeping bags, tents, mess kits, canteens, and first-aid supplies. Many stores also stock knives, flashlights, rope, and other tools useful for outdoor work or emergency preparedness. Collectible items—patches, insignia, uniforms, and military memorabilia—appeal to history enthusiasts and collectors.

How prices compare to other outdoor retailers

Military surplus items are typically priced lower than equivalent new retail gear because they're existing stock rather than newly manufactured. A surplus field jacket or pair of boots may cost significantly less than a comparable item from a mainstream outdoor retailer. The trade-off is that surplus stock varies in condition and availability—you may find exactly what you need one week and nothing similar the next.

New-production tactical and outdoor gear at Army Navy Store locations is generally competitively priced with other specialty retailers, though not always cheaper than big-box outdoor chains. The advantage is selection and staff knowledge specific to tactical and military-style equipment. If you're budget-conscious and flexible about brand or exact specifications, surplus stock offers real savings.

What to expect when you visit

Stores are typically organized by category—footwear in one section, outerwear in another, packs and bags in a third. The layout varies by location and store size. Surplus items are often mixed with new stock, so you may need to dig through bins or racks to find your size or the condition you prefer. Staff can point you toward specific sections or help you locate items if you know what you're looking for.

Fitting is important for boots and packs, so plan to spend time trying things on. Boots especially need to be tested for comfort and fit, since poor footwear can ruin an outdoor trip. Many stores have a return or exchange policy, though terms vary by location, so ask before you purchase if fit is a concern.

Regional South Carolina locations

Army Navy Store has multiple locations across the state, with presence in Charleston, Greenville, Columbia, and coastal areas. The exact number and addresses change over time as stores open and close, so calling ahead or checking online is the best way to confirm a location near you and verify current hours. Some locations are independently owned franchises, so policies and inventory can differ between stores.

If you're traveling to a specific region—the Lowcountry, Upstate, or Midlands—a quick search or phone call will tell you which store is closest and whether they stock what you need. Calling ahead is especially useful if you're looking for a specific item, size, or type of surplus gear.

When to shop for specific seasons and activities

Fall and winter are peak seasons for cold-weather gear—jackets, insulated layers, and boots sell quickly. Spring and summer bring demand for lightweight clothing, bug netting, and camping supplies. Hunting season (fall and winter in South Carolina) drives traffic for tactical clothing and gear. If you're planning a specific trip or activity, shopping a few weeks in advance gives you the best selection.

Surplus stock is unpredictable and first-come, first-served. If you spot something you like, buying it then rather than waiting is often the smarter choice, since similar items may not be in stock next week. New-production items are more reliably available, though popular sizes and colors can sell out during peak seasons.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is military surplus gear actually used military equipment?

Some items are genuine surplus—equipment that was issued and used by the military, then sold off when no longer needed. Other items are new-production gear made to military specifications. The Army Navy Store typically carries both, and staff can tell you which is which. Genuine surplus is usually cheaper but may show wear.

Can I return or exchange items if they don't fit?

Return and exchange policies vary by location and whether the item is surplus or new. Call the store before you purchase to understand their specific policy. Trying things on in-store—especially boots and packs—is the best way to avoid fit problems.

Do Army Navy Store locations carry the same inventory?

No. Each store has its own stock, and surplus items especially vary widely. A store in Charleston may have different boots, jackets, or packs than one in Greenville. If you're looking for something specific, calling ahead to check availability saves a trip.

What's the difference between tactical gear and regular outdoor gear?

Tactical gear is designed for military, law enforcement, or professional use and often includes features like extra pockets, reinforced seams, and modular attachment systems. Regular outdoor gear prioritizes comfort and weather protection for hiking or camping. Army Navy Store carries both, and staff can explain the differences if you're unsure which suits your needs.

Are prices better at Army Navy Store than online retailers?

Surplus items are often cheaper than online prices because you're buying existing stock directly. New-production gear may or may not be cheaper than online options—it depends on the brand and item. The advantage of shopping in-store is trying things on and getting immediate advice from staff who know tactical and outdoor gear.