Grelmar and I were chatting today about chest rig VS Belt and another friend just asked me if a chest rig was mandatory?
Also you make no mention of a Holster I assume it's required.
Is downloading 10 round mags to 5 rounds OK? Why not 10 rounds?
What in your experience does not work what should be avoided?
Last year most guys had chest rig/plate carrier set up and I remember at least one guy using a belt, everything is ok. I'll say bring and use what you have and see what other set up exists and go from there.
Holster is required for your pistol, whatever type you have is good.
That course is to make you practice mag changes so whatever your mags hold, bring them (you'll see why the last day !!