I think technically that makes sense in-universe, but it is indeed a terrible design. If the flashback had a T-51 with something classic like the Fallout 1 assault rifle I would have done the pointing at the screen meme.

T-60 armor was something brand new to the west coast in the current day era of the show. Normally I might not be as nitpicky, but the show goes out of its way to introduce the armor as something brand new to the area.