"I will go to the IG!" threat; how do you respond?

As a PSG and 1SG, I either dialed the number for them and handed them the phone or asked them kindly to ensure that they spelled my name right when it came time to air their grievance.

"Going to the IG" should not be a threat. The IG is a great tool to provide CDRs an azimuth check, validate policies and interpretations of regulations, and also provide other TTPs when it comes to various issues. For those Junior Leaders who are getting this from their subordinates, talk to your PSG or 1SG. The guidance may be to drive that young Soldier up there yourself.

Take them to the IG....or to your CSM....his name ends in IG

As a current Assistant IG, I felt the need to chime in. If a Soldier threatens to go to the IG, then let them go. If you're abiding by the prescribed regulations, you'll be fine. IGs aren't there to be sympathetic towards Soldiers. We are "Objective fact-finders on behalf of the CG" as outlined in AR 20-1. We don't take sides. We make sure that the standard is met in addressing an issue. After all, everything in the Army has a standard. If you're fair, consistent, and impartial in executing your duties, then you won't have any issues with the IG. Most of the time, the complaints are more along the lines of whining. But, too many IG complaints can have a negative effect though. Your complaints stay in the IG database for 30 years. As the complaints accumulate, that data will be collected and possibly pop up during a background check or when you're nominated for a Special Duty Assignment. All in all, the IG is an excellent tool to utilize that can keep you on the right path. I'd say call your IG Office and pick their brain from time to time. We aren't bad people at all. Also, from what I've seen, 99% percent of commands are doing the RIGHT thing.