Bingo! I saw alot of rope slings in those pictures, alot of machining. Anyone notice, however, their load bearing gear? Lots of empty pouches...
These people, like their weapons, are improvised warriors. They have to develop a fighting mindset overnight and wake up to constant death everyday.
Say what one will about the politics of the event (Fundamentalists and their influence in the fight against Assad), but I admire the fighting people of Syria. They have no distractions, no American Idol, no McDonalds at whim, no beer when they come home to a warm, safe house. Minimal supplies and minimal arms, fighting (albeit older tech) a superior fighting force in a war of attrition. Such a war requires resolve, hardened and sharpened to a razor's edge. I may concern myself with the outcome of their fight (extremists taking over), but I respect their fighting ability in the face of such a strong enemy.
Americans? There's people that give up at life practically when their internet goes down. People that will almost kill each other over an after Thanksgiving day sale. People that scream for entitlement programs, no price gouging or "fair share". Yes, many Americans would stand up and take the fight to the enemy, but I fear a majority would not have the stomach for the fight or would turn over instantly in the face of withering firepower. Armchair commando of me to say this? Yes.
