Survival kits info.

[LostOutrider]

I have several supplemental kits that tend to change depending on what I am heading out to do, how long I plan to do it, how many folks are going with me, what season, etc. Below is my basic, grab-and-go kit that is the bare minimum I'll step into the wild with.

http://www.wilderness-survival.net/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=411&stc=1&d=1217260856

1. metal signal mirror wrapped in cardstock & double-layers of electrical tape
The paper prevents scratching and provides a durable writing surface if needed. The top layer of tape peels off like it was coming off the roll and provides water-resistant binding.

2. plastic hooded poncho

3. mylar emergency blanket

4. US Mil Small Arms Ammo pouch (2 ALICE clips on the back) wrapped in roughly 20' of paracord.
I added the paracord primarily to tie back those annoying grenade flaps that stick out from the sides of the pouch. Well, and I'll wrap just about anything in paracord if I can.

5. wire saw (rings removed)

6. LED pen light w/ AAA battery
The battery is reversed in the light so that it doesn't accidentally drain out.

7. Magnesium fire starter

8. Small multi-tool. pliers, scissors, file, knife blade, screw tips

9. Combo whistle, compass, thermometer w/ 3' paracord lanyard

10. Aspirin bottle w/ iodine tablets, benadryl, tylenol, tylenol PM, & immodium
Each type of pill wrapped in a small baggy so they don't mix. That also helps muffle the rattling.

11. Altoids tin with: sewing kit, fishing kit, 50' of 6# test fishing line, loose gauze (tinder/reduce rattling), packaged tea bag, wiresaw rings & safety pins
The tea is critical. You get bonus points if you can come up with why.

12. First Aid kit: gauze, adhesive bandages, 2 full lighters.
Don't know if you can see it or not, but I wrap the lighters in about 30 or so feet of 6 lb. test fishing line.


Items not shown:

1.5 oz of Germ-X. Sits nicely under the flap.
half a pencil
Leatherman multi-tool worn on my belt next to the kit. The one in the kit is a cheaper, smaller tool.
canteen w/ metal cup worn opposite the kit. What I carry my water in depends on why, when, and where I'm out.

[Army Ranger Rick]

Greetings guys & gals! Caio from sunny Italy!

Yea I know it's been awhile since I posted anything here. And so I thought I'd drop in to say "hello" and to let ya all know that my Ranger Digest website (www.***************.com) has been revised and updated since July 7th 2008.

Though it's not yet completely done, I'm still working on it, but most of the important stuff that I wanted to post has been put up online.

In particular, come check out these new topics & tips (below) that I am sure most of you will find interesting.

Survival Kits
Survival Weapons
Fish Kit Tips
S.A.R. Aircraft
Signaling for Help
Zips & Sparks
Staying-A-Float

So I hope you will take me up on my offer and com'on by and check'em out, I promise you won't be disappointed.

Wish I had more time to spend chatting on forums, but I have numerous projects that I am working on as well as teaching some basic survival classes here in Italy.

I will try my best to log on here from time to time, but if I can't....don't worry eventually I will. Or if you want to contact me to ask me a question about my new tips, try contacting me through my website.

Enjoy my new tips, take care for now.

"Army Ranger Rick" Tscherne

US Army, Retired (1972-93)
Author, The Ranger Digest Series (I-IX)
Developer, SOS Survival Kits
Owner, The Ranger Digest.Com

[RangerXanatos]

Aren't tea bags a type of pain reliever. Also I believe you can put them over your eyes to remove baggy eyes. I guess it's great if you think you might meet the amazon women and want to impress them. :)

[crashdive123]

Hey there Army Ranger Rick. You really should contact the administrator of this site and inquire about advertising rates on here.

[MickToren]

Hey guys, I'm gonna be heading out to Colorado in about two weeks and I am in the middle of assembling a small survival kit. I received an Army ROTC scholarship to attend CU-Boulder, so I'll be in mountains quite a bit. Hiking, Mountaineering, Skiing, etc. I want a small kit with the comfortable essentials.

As a base kit, I went with the Doug Ritter-designed Adventure Medical Pocket Survival Pack.

Contents, as copied from Adventure Medical Kits website.
1..... Signal Mirror, Rescue Flash™
1..... Spark-Lite™ Fire Starter
4..... Tinder Quick™ Firestarter
1..... Whistle, Rescue Howler™
1..... Waterproof Survival Instructions
1..... Duct Tape, 2" x 26"
1..... Scalpel with Handle, Sterile, Disposable, #22 Blade
1..... Compass, Button, Liquid Filled
1..... Aluminum Foil, Heavy Duty, 3 Sq. Ft.
1..... Waterproof Paper
1..... Fresnel Magnifier
1..... Safety Wire, Stainless Steel, (6 ft of 0.020")
1..... Sewing Thread, Bobbin #69, Nylon
1..... Nylon Cord, #18, Braided, (10 ft. 100lb test)
1..... Sewing Needle, #18, Chenille
4..... Fish Hook, #10
2..... Split Shot, Lead B
1..... Snap Swivel, Size 12
1..... Pencil
1..... Pocket Survival Pak Contents List
4..... Safety Pins

I decided to group and re-package the components though. The kit broke down into three, thin 3"x5" resealable ziplock bags.

I also added a small medical kit to the survival kit. The contents are stored in another resealable 3"x5" ziplock bag.
4 Advil Caplets
2 Hart Triple Antibiotic Ointment Packets
2 Histaprin Antihistamine Caplets
4 Hart Sterile 2"x2" Gauze pads
3 PDI Sting Relief Medicated pads
2 Butterfly Closures

In addition, I added 20 Katadyn Micropur MP-1 water purification tablets to the kit. Those are stored in a 3"x5" ziplock bag too.

It's all stashed in a grey water-resistant, 3.25"x5"x2" camera/iPod/electronics pouch. The pouch has a nylon Velcro secured loop on the back in order to attach it to belts or other gear.

My question is, how can I improve this kit?

[crashdive123]

First - welcome to the forum. Second - congratulations on your ROTC scholarship. Is the kit you listed to supplement other gear while you're hiking or skiing?

[Sarge47]

My question is, how can I improve this kit?

Learn how to use it.

Also visit my Blogs: "Pop Quiz Part II", "For the Newbys",
& the book review on "98.6 Degrees: The Art Of Keeping Your A$$ Alive." Then read through the "Sticky" on "Survival kits" found right here on this forum.

http://www.wilderness-survival.net/forums/showthread.php?t=1256

Hope that helps.:cool: (Anybody out there notice how well I kept my cool? Rick will be proud.)

[Sarge47]

So what's your next question? What kind of knife should you buy perhaps?:rolleyes:

[crashdive123]

Now, now Sarge.:D

[Sam Reeves]

I'd carry a Bic lighter and a Visine bottle filled with alcohol. The alcohol can be used as a fire starter or to clean minor abrasions.

Get you several feet of 550 cord. You never know when you'll want to tie some down.

[klkak]

Learn how to use it.

Sarge you communicate so well.

My first life/survival/bushcraft instructor (Grandpa) said "If it's in your kit and you don't know how to use it. It's useless"

I use that saying to this day. Hence my forum signature.

[Gray Wolf]

Welcome, at a first glance of your list, I would replace the Spark-Lite Fire Starter with a Swedish firesteel, which RobertRogers can point you in that direction. Next, Sam is correct, get rid of the Nylon Cord, #18, Braided, (10 ft. 100lb test) and get yourself a 50' hank of Mil Spec 550 paracord which has 7 strands of cord inside it, lots of uses. I would also get a box of wet-tinder ask Rick he can point you in the right direction. More later...

[Sarge47]

Ok, I've removed Ranger Rick's illeagal URL from his post. I've also redirected Mick Toren's "Survival Kit" post here as well. He's only posted the single post & has not come back on since, although I know for a fact he's been reading the answers to his thread. "Rules is Rules" & if he's truley going into the ROTC he's going to have to get used to following them.:cool:

[klkak]

Here are a couple of pic's showing my kit and the contents. I am not soliciting suggestions for improving it. This is my kit and it works for me. I just thought I'd share what after several years of exploring Alaska I've come to value and carry on my person. I have other equipment that I carry in my pack or on my ATV but this is what I keep on my body when I step off the pavement. This kit lives in my truck so it is always with me.:D

This kit covers
Fire
Water
Shelter
Protection
Direction
Detection
Signaling
Sanitation
First aid

[crashdive123]

Since you're not soliciting suggestions, I'll just say - I like it.

[klkak]

Since you're not soliciting suggestions, I'll just say - I like it.

Master Chief, I can except constructive suggestions from the likes of you, Rick, Sarge, Beo, Trax, Coot, The ladies, Hope, Chuck and all the other serious minded student of the outdoors. I just wanted to scare off any "wannabe". :D:D:D

[klkak]

By the way, I am very intimidated by your avatar. I feel like its looking right through me. All you people with wolf avatars are evil or something and the fact that your avatar is looking right through me has nothing to do with my paranoia.

[crashdive123]

Master Chief, I can except constructive suggestions from the likes of you, Rick, Sarge, Beo, Trax, Coot, The ladies, Hope, Chuck and all the other serious minded student of the outdoors. I just wanted to scare off any "wannabe". :D:D:D

Well in that case - I still like it. As far as the avatar goes - it's harmless, just feeds on owls.:eek::D

[crashdive123]

In all seriousness though....You've got a kit that you've been using and tweaking for quite awhile to get to where it meets your needs. That's something that we should all strive to do. It's kind of like your signature...

[klkak]

Well in that case - I still like it. As far as the avatar goes - it's harmless, just feeds on owls.:eek::D

Get your blood thirsty eyes off my owl!

[nell67]

Great kit klkak.

I agree with you,that avatar of his just isn't right,glowing all red and everything,must be part of his Jedi ritual before he eats owls..

[klkak]

Thats it, wait till my baby owl grows up into a giant winged predator. He'll swoop down out of the night sky and scratch those red glowing eyes out. Muaaaaa Ha Ha Ha Ha, Fear not the night but what hunts in the night. Muaaaaa Ha Ha Ha Ha....,

[crashdive123]

Does anybody have any good owl recipes?:D;)

[klkak]

No but I have a great grilled wolf recipe!

Skin and gut
Wash down with white vinegar and water
Hang in cool dry place for 2 weeks
De-bone
Cut meat into 1" x 2" squares
Marinate in Italian dressing for 24 hours
skewer alternately with green peppers, onion and pineapple pieces
Place on hot grill and baste with teriyaki sauce to perfection
Serve with fresh green salad and seasoned rice
Cold Miller Chill goes good with this meal

[klkak]

No but I have a great grilled wolf recipe!

Skin and gut
Wash down with white vinegar and water
Hang in cool dry place for 2 weeks
De-bone
Cut meat into 1" x 2" squares
Marinate in Italian dressing for 24 hours
skewer alternately with green peppers, onion and pineapple pieces
Place on hot grill and baste with teriyaki sauce to perfection
Serve with fresh green salad and seasoned rice
Cold Miller Chill goes good with this meal

It's a joke my fellow Wolfpackians. No need to tar and feather me.:rolleyes:

[crashdive123]

http://www.mysmiley.net/imgs/smile/animals/animal0019.gif (http://www.mysmiley.net) MOM! The owl got big and is pickin on me!

[nell67]

It's ok Crash,I'm still hunting my owl recipe book,when Trax gets here,he'll take care of that mean old owl,and we'll have a nice supper to boot :D

Bet he's a tough old bird though,gonna have to boil this one for a LONGGGGGGGG time...

[klkak]

I love you guys

[nell67]

LOL,you'll delete that post tomorrow!!!!!!!:eek::D

[crashdive123]

I love you guys

Too late Nell - it's now captured forever.:D

[klkak]

I have a tour tomorrow so no pick'n on me when I'm not here to defend myself.

[nell67]

LOL,I shoulda done that but you know,if he's had a little nip,and then see's that in the morning,then he's gonna be like Oh My God,why did I say that (delete,delete,delete).I woulda felt bad for him,cuz I had quoated him then.

Now if he is sober and sayin' it,thats ok.






deleted posts seem to running rampant around here,eh?

[klkak]

I just drank a fifth of cool aid. Dare me to drive...,

[crashdive123]

Kool-aid's not bad....takes the edge off cheap liquor.

http://www.geocities.com/Colosseum/Park/2070/ohyea3.GIF

[wildWoman]

Heavy on the heavy metal...I'll take a picture of my "kit" and post it, will take a few weeks though to get the film out, developed etc, you'll probably laugh yourself silly as it is very unmanly. But hey, us bush chicks got survival kits too ;)

[klkak]

You must be referring to the Smith & Wesson .44 magnum. Yea it's a "biggerboomer".

[Ole WV Coot]

If it works for you I wouldn't even try and suggest anything. I started with a truckload and over the years cut out a lot. Going deep in the hills I never go alone on an ATV. I carry plugs, cement, even a couple of extra valves and tools. Summer I carry my 45 and also a Ruger single six mag loaded with snakeshot in a fender bag. I guess maybe too much. I seem to use most everything and if you're like me have to furnish something for someone that "forgot" a needed article. I can do with less but pack right and my Rincon can provide everything including a bed. I can get a nice nap on it. I only need a fanny pack & cell phone for walks since my legs have a limited range.

[klkak]

In a Texsport dry bag on the ATV I carry: Sat phone, "real" tool kit, siphon hose, first responders first aid kit, 10' x 10' tarp w/several ft of line on each grommet, fleece sleeping bag, change of clothes, 12 volt compressor w/tire plug kit and other odds & ends I've found necessary for repairing an ATV.

In my pack I carry: Wetterlings hatchet, larger folding saw, a Noah's tarp, combat casualty blanket, 50' of 1/4" plasma line, extra gloves, T.P., large knife, bivy bag, light fleece blanket, Rain gear & wind stopper fleece jacket, extra ammo, extra AA batteries, EMT exam gloves, Stethoscope, CPR shield and any thing else I decide to through in there.

I know it sounds like allot of stuff but the bag on the ATV only weights 30 lbs and my pack weights about 15 lbs. My vest might weight 10 lbs

Small game season opens here on the 10th. So I'll also be carrying my Buckmark pistol or BL-22 rifle. Just in case I happen upon some spruce or ruffed grouse. The snowshoes are open all year but I don't shoot them until there is a freeze or two.

[Rick]

Hey! The new CPR guidelines no longer require mouth-to-mouth so the shield doesn't have to be carried.

Tacmedic or AD, keep me honest here.

[crashdive123]

Rick - you're absolutely right about the new CPR guidelines. When I was reading about them I got the impression that the change was due more to encourage people that would be otherwise unwilling to perform CPR due to fear of the mouth to mouth part of it rather than it being more effective.

[Ole WV Coot]

I still have a few shields and carry one. I guess the new method works, don't know if I could last very long with it. I do know the mouth to mouth works but at rate of speed now recommended I don't know. Glad I'm not the only one that carries a "real" tool kit. 30lbs is nothing on my Rincon. I keep a full change of clothes, sealed. and more than I can list here. If you travel deep into the hills on an ATV you can easily take anything you need and I can't second the real tools enough. I have a Leatherman that stays in the bag, haven't used it, would rather have the Klien tools and always a "WV Credit Card", 4ft of 1/4" hose for gas.

[Rick]

I was under the impression it was two fold. 1) residual oxygen remains in the lungs and it's more important that blood be flowing to the brain both to provide oxygen but just as importantly to remove CO2. 2) What you said. Sort of gets rid of the yuck factor.

[jrock24]

Very nice kit.

[Army Ranger Rick]

Hi Sarge,

Hey listen, sorry if I broke one of your forum rules, and so now I got a "catch-22" question for ya...

I stopped by here a few days ago and posted some info (above)about some of my new survival tips that I posted on my website on July 7th 2008. But only after a few of your forum member here stopped by my site, sent me an email and invited me to stop by to talk about them.

Well like I mentioned in my posting above, I really don't have a lot of time of to chat online nor on forums. But I found out about what you ddid (removed my website URL) from the same forum members who contacted and invited me stop by here to talk about my new tips.

And so no offense but let me see if I got this straight so I don't violate anymore forum rules...If I was NOT the owner of "The Ranger Digest.Com" and someone else posted my link and URL here on your forum that would be ok. But because I am the owner I can't, is this correct?

If this is correct, what stops me or anyone else who owns a website from using a fake user name and just posting a message here saying "Hey ya all, did you see those latest new survivl tips on www.*****************.com? Check'em out.

I wasn't trying to sell anything here on this forum, no more than what www.wilderness-survival.net is trying to sell by having this forum on their site. I was only accepting an invitation from some of your forum here in letting you all know I've posted some new survival tips on my site. In particular these new tips below:

TOPIC MY COMMENTS
Survival Kits..............No, it's not the same ol'survival kit bs list that other sites talk about, it's something a bit different.

Survival Weapons......Some new survival weapons that anyone can make and use more effectively than some old slingshot or spear from a tree branch.

Fishing Kit Tips.........What other sites fail or don't want talk usually discuss or talk about.

S.A.R. Aircraft..........What is rarely almost never discussed or talked about on other sites.

Signaling for Help......A few new signaling techniques that I'm certain almost all of you have never thought about.

Zips & Sparks..........Just my opinion and what others may not know about zippo lighters, spark-lites and the four-finger-fire starter.

Staying-A-Float........Something, small, compact, lightweight and can be easily carried in your pocket or packed in a small survival kit that'll keep your @ss afloat in an emergency.

And so that's all I was trying to do, to make you and your forum membersl aware of these new survival tips of mine and to get some feedback from ya all.

And so if I can't post my URL here because I am the website owner, does that mean someone else can post it here?

I am not looking for a firefight, just trying to find out the rules engagement in posting some information here, that's all. And if I can't post my URL here along with these tips, then I guess your viewers can always "google" my name or the name of my site or kits to find out where these new survival tips are located. Am I correct, Sarge?

Well thanks for your time in allowing me to ask this or these questions here on your forum, appreciate a response back, take care for now.

"Army Ranger Rick" F. Tscherne

US Army, Retired (1972-93)
Author, The Ranger Digest Series (I-IX)
Developer, SOS Survival Kits

[nell67]

Hi Sarge,

Hey listen, sorry if I broke one of your forum rules, and so now I got a "catch-22" question for ya...

I stopped by here a few days ago and posted some info (above)about some of my new survival tips that I posted on my website on July 7th 2008. But only after a few of your forum member here stopped by my site, sent me an email and invited me to stop by to talk about them.

Well like I mentioned in my posting above, I really don't have a lot of time of to chat online nor on forums. But I found out about what you ddid (removed my website URL) from the same forum members who contacted and invited me stop by here to talk about my new tips.

And so no offense but let me see if I got this straight so I don't violate anymore forum rules...If I was NOT the owner of "The Ranger Digest.Com" and someone else posted my link and URL here on your forum that would be ok. But because I am the owner I can't, is this correct?

If this is correct, what stops me or anyone else who owns a website from using a fake user name and just posting a message here saying "Hey ya all, did you see those latest new survivl tips on www.*****************.com? (http://www.*****************.com?) Check'em out.

I wasn't trying to sell anything here on this forum, no more than what www.wilderness-survival.net (http://www.wilderness-survival.net) is trying to sell by having this forum on their site. I was only accepting an invitation from some of your forum here in letting you all know I've posted some new survival tips on my site. In particular these new tips below:

TOPIC MY COMMENTS
Survival Kits..............No, it's not the same ol'survival kit bs list that other sites talk about, it's something a bit different.

Survival Weapons......Some new survival weapons that anyone can make and use more effectively than some old slingshot or spear from a tree branch.

Fishing Kit Tips.........What other sites fail or don't want talk usually discuss or talk about.

S.A.R. Aircraft..........What is rarely almost never discussed or talked about on other sites.

Signaling for Help......A few new signaling techniques that I'm certain almost all of you have never thought about.

Zips & Sparks..........Just my opinion and what others may not know about zippo lighters, spark-lites and the four-finger-fire starter.

Staying-A-Float........Something, small, compact, lightweight and can be easily carried in your pocket or packed in a small survival kit that'll keep your @ss afloat in an emergency.

And so that's all I was trying to do, to make you and your forum membersl aware of these new survival tips of mine and to get some feedback from ya all.

And so if I can't post my URL here because I am the website owner, does that mean someone else can post it here?

I am not looking for a firefight, just trying to find out the rules engagement in posting some information here, that's all. And if I can't post my URL here along with these tips, then I guess your viewers can always "google" my name or the name of my site or kits to find out where these new survival tips are located. Am I correct, Sarge?

Well thanks for your time in allowing me to ask this or these questions here on your forum, appreciate a response back, take care for now.

"Army Ranger Rick" F. Tscherne

US Army, Retired (1972-93)
Author, The Ranger Digest Series (I-IX)
Developer, SOS Survival Kits
ARR,your link to your site can be in your signature,but not in your post.
It benefits you more if you hang around and post more often that way,since it will show up with each post you make.

[Army Ranger Rick]

Thanks Nell67 for that AAR, now I understand a little bit more on how your or this forum works, or at least the rules on posting a URL.

Unfortunately, and no offense to anyone here, but I have another life beyond a computer keyboard, screen and the internet. I am a physically active person and not the to sit down type. The only time I usually visit forums, chat rooms and surf the net is when the weather is a bit lousy outside, like now here in Northern Italy where I live.

Anyway, thanks for that input and advice, appreciate it. I'll be back, that is if I don't get kicked off here like at ETS. To learn more about that incident you'll have to surf my site.

Gotta go, but feel free to contact me off-line, take care ya all.

"Army Ranger Rick" F. Tscherne

US Army, Retired (1972-93)
Author, The Ranger Digest Series
Developer, SOS Survival Kits

[crashdive123]

Rick - this isn't the story I read at the time of the changes, but it makes the same points. http://www.collegian.psu.edu/archive/2008/04/08/new_cpr_guidelines_passed.aspx

[crashdive123]

I am not looking for a firefight, just trying to find out the rules engagement in posting some information here, that's all. And if I can't post my URL here along with these tips, then I guess your viewers can always "google" my name or the name of my site or kits to find out where these new survival tips are located. Am I correct, Sarge?

Army Ranger Rick - Nell's advice is probably the best to get your website out there to the members of this forum. After all, how much time does it truely take to log on once or twice a week and share some great info on survival. As you know by the contacts you have recieved on your website, that some (maybe even many) members of this forum have visited your site. I have, and have enjoyed my time there. Check out our blogs. One member has done a review of some of the stuff on your site.

Please don't take this as a salvo across your bow.

Crashdive123
United States Navy (Submarines) Retired

[Rick]

Your assessment was pretty close, RR. It's designed to keep folks from logging on and spamming the forum. Your assumption that anyone can log on under a false name is also correct. However, we usually see through MOST of that and ban them. You control what you can, you know?

Do as Nell suggests, post it in your signature. Then it will appear on every post you make.

[Rick]

For anyone that might be interested.

http://handsonlycpr.eisenberginc.com/

[Gray Wolf]

The only time I usually visit forums, chat rooms and surf the net is when the weather is a bit lousy outside, like now here in Northern Italy where I live.

WoW, 5 posts since Nov '07 (including these two) weather must be great most of the time in Northern Italy (or business must be slow). :rolleyes:

[Rick]

Mick - Doug Ritter is one of the best around so you have a decent to good kit starting out. It's important to get out and try the kit out. Find out what you are comfortable with and what you need more practice with. You need to be able to perform the basics in any situation. Fire, Shelter, Safe drinking water, Navigation, Signalling and Food. You don't have to be an expert overnight. Pick one you are comfortable with, study the available information on it and above all practice.

I concur with the others on the 550 cord to replace the braided cord and I don't see anything to boil water or carry water in. The best way to sterilize water (not the only way, of course) is to boil it. Based on what you posted, you will want a way to melt snow and acquire a warm drink so something metal (can, canteen cup, metal cup, etc) will be needed.

[klkak]

I'm not going to leave the CPR shield behind just because. How many chest compression does it take until all the O2 is used up? In the area where I roam it could be a long time until a helicopter with an EMT shows up.

[klkak]

I still have a few shields and carry one. I guess the new method works, don't know if I could last very long with it. I do know the mouth to mouth works but at rate of speed now recommended I don't know. Glad I'm not the only one that carries a "real" tool kit. 30lbs is nothing on my Rincon. I keep a full change of clothes, sealed. and more than I can list here. If you travel deep into the hills on an ATV you can easily take anything you need and I can't second the real tools enough. I have a Leatherman that stays in the bag, haven't used it, would rather have the Klien tools and always a "WV Credit Card", 4ft of 1/4" hose for gas.

The 30lb bag is nothing to my Arctic Cat 500 manual either. Its what I carry day to day. If I'm going to be out for more then a day or two I will carry more stuff as needed. As far as the "WV credit card" the Arctic cat has a 6 1/2 gallon tank. If I'm going more then 50 miles round trip I'll carry extra fuel. I can do about 150 miles on one tank. I try to ensure I have 3 times the fuel needed to make the trip.

[Rick]

Klkak - Your point on time and distance are more than valid. I hadn't considered that!

[Ole WV Coot]

At 4 1/2 gal capacity I guess I should carry extra fuel also. My mileage dropped with new Mud Lite deep tread. The Rincon 650 has a great ride but no engine braking and about 18mpg but gives the old back a new lease on life. I made a trade off for comfort.

[trax]

Okeldie dokeldie kiddies,

I like the kit a lot klkak!

I agree with crash on the koolaid use!

It's against my "religion" to cook either owls or wolves!

This has to be the easiest I've been to get along with in a long time. Of course, it's already ten in the morning and I'm not drunk yet, so that could all change when the DT's kick in.

[klkak]

Okeldie dokeldie kiddies,

I like the kit a lot klkak!

I agree with crash on the koolaid use!

It's against my "religion" to cook either owls or wolves!

This has to be the easiest I've been to get along with in a long time. Of course, it's already ten in the morning and I'm not drunk yet, so that could all change when the DT's kick in.

It means alot to me, you saying that.

[Rick]

Ah oh, man hug time.....

[Army Ranger Rick]

The following information is from "The ************.Com" website and taken from/under the "Survival Kit" page;

...I am a firm believer that all survival kits should come with a plastic bag too. So should you need to open up your survival kit and remove some of the items and you can’t get it all back inside, you can place the items in the plastic bag and then into your pocket. After all, once you find yourself needing to use your survival kit you're going to have to carry the items in your pocket anyway. Am I right or wrong? So it just makes sense that all survival kits should come with a plastic ziplock bag.

Now there’s only one survival kit that I know of that already comes in a plastic bag and it's called a Pocket Survival Pak™. The developer by the name of Mr. Ritter claims his survival kit is "...a practical and affordable pocket survival kit that could someday save your life™. Two years in development, this kit will fit comfortably in your pocket and contains only the very best high quality survival gear. Perfect for campers, hikers, scouts and pilots."

Well all I have to say about Mr. Ritter's kit is that as experienced and knowledgeable as he is in knowing the difference between a good and bad survival kit. I am very disappointed in what he choose and left out of his own kit.

For example there’s no flashlight, no knife, no water container or water purification tablets. But instead he chose a surgerical blade over a knife and some aluminum foil for boiling water instead of a condom & water purification tablets."

NOTE: Due to the length of this topic and article I have only posted a few paragraphs here from that survival kit page, to read the rest of the article you will have to log onto "The **************.com."

The bottom line, to chose to carry some aluminum foil in place of or instead of some water purification tablets and a container in a survival kit is a no brainer - it's terrible poor choice. The only time aluminum foil would be useful is if you were in a cold weather winter wonderland so you could use it to melt snow without having to worry about filtering and purifying the melted snow into water.

In the December edition of Field & Stream someone did an article on five different survival kits and one of them was on Mr. Ritter's survival kit. Though he is a very reputable and knowledgeable survival guru, the same items that I just mention about that his survival kit lacked was also noted in that same article too. If he were to add, delete and replace some of those items I believe he would have a pretty decent survival kit.

Of course this is only my opinion and you know what they say about opinions, don't you. "Opinions are like a--holes everyone has one.'

[crashdive123]

I'm not a fan of pre made kits. I suppose they have their place, but I prefer to assemble my own, based on my needs. As far as aluminum foil only being useful in a winter survival situation to melt snow - I've got to disagree.

[crashdive123]

Here's a few uses of aluminum foil as a multi-use item.

Form a cup or bowl to boil water (or melt snow as stated above)
Fishing lure
Foot warmer
Funnel
Heat reflector
Wind screen
Signaling
Snow goggles
Solar oven

I'm sure there are more, but this is just off the top of my head. To say "The only time aluminum foil would be useful is if you were in a cold weather winter wonderland so you could use it to melt snow without having to worry about filtering and purifying the melted snow into water." is IMO incorrect.

[Army Ranger Rick]

Guys, you need to back up a bit, you're reading in between the lines in what I just wrote here.

I didn't say aluminum foil [in general] is useless. I said "to choose aluminum foil over water purification tablets and a container is a no brainer and a terrible choice."

You're "speaking to the choir" here in knowing what you can use aluminum foil for in a survival situation. All those uses you just mentioned I concur but only to a certain point.

I am talking about which is better to have, a store bought survival kit that comes with aluminum foil or one that comes with some water purification tablets and a container.

To put together your own or chosing a store bought survival kit that comes with just aluminum foil for boiling water [for drinking purposes] is a very poor choice and a waste of money. Why? Just to name a few reasons...

To boil water you need fire, water tablets and a container you don't neet any fire. Granted it, you can only purify enough water based on the number of water tablets you have or carrying in your survival kit.

But aluminum foil can only be used so many times before it becomes "brittle" and "breaks."

Don't believe me, then I suggest you go to your kitchen cabinet and pull out some aluminum foil and try boiling water in that same sheet [of aluminum foil] a few times to see how long it last. And over a hot "open campfire" and not on an open stove where you can control the heat and flame.

There are a lot of survival myths out there, so instead of reading and passing on these same myths that you personally have never tried out. I suggest you test them out for yourself to see what works and what doesn't work. I have, and so that's why I posted this aluminum foil myth on my website (The ************.Com).

The same goes for those who think you can boil water and cook food in one of those "pocket survival tins." Check out the photos on my site as to what happens when you try it.

The bottom line, yes, you can use aluminum foil for many things in a survival situation. But I wouldn't use aluminum foil nor chose a store bought survival kit that comes with aluminum foil just because the manufacturer or the survival kit developer [like Mr. Ritter] says you can use the kit's aluminum foil for:

Fishing lures
Foot warmer
Funnel
Heat reflector
Wind screen
Signaling
Snow goggles
Solar oven

I rather put together or buy a survival kit that comes with:

some real fishing lures...
a fire starter that will really warm up my tootsies if they get cold...
build a heat reflector or wind screen out of some rocks, logs and tree brances...
and use a real mirror or a real fire for signaling...

I personally don't and have never carried a lot of survival gear to the field, not before I entered the military, not during my 21 years in the military and not after I retired from the military in 1993.

So as far as me using aluminum foil....never used it - never will. I'd rather pack and carry some water tablets & a container or an old military plastic canteen, cover and canteen cup [for boiling water] than to pack and carry some aluminum foil that won't last very long.

And the only reason why a survival kit manufacturer, developer or seller would throw in some aluminum foil and tell you you can use it to boil water, for signaling, etc, is to cut down on their expenses in selling you their [most likely overpriced] survival kit.

There, I hope I made myself a bit more clear here.

Whoops! Time to go, gotta cut and run now, got a few orders I gotta take care of that just popped up on my screen and then I'm heading to the beach here on Lake Garda - Italy.

Nice talking to you guys, I'll be back when I have some more free time which is NOT often. If someone has something to say or add to my comments above and wants a reply back, it's best you contact me off this forum via email.

Thanks for your time fellas, take care.

"Army Ranger Rick" F. Tscherne
Author, The Ranger Digest Series (I-IX)
Developer, SOS Survival Kits
Owner, www.therangerdigest.Com

[Beo]

Well I gotta say my 16 year old son loves ARR's gear, and I'm ordering him some more. I have found the teens love his digest and he explains it better than the Ranger Handbook, I know they are different but being an old Ranger I still carry mine as old habbits die hard. But I read his digests all the time. His necklaces I got for the teens my son runns the woods with and in since they're hunting for a survival box and first aid box for their pack I'm gonna check his site.
Let me tell you from a guy who at first doubted his gear... I was wrong, shoulda known a Ranger wouldn't make bad kit or pass out bad info.
So... ARR... Lead the Way, bro.
Beo,

[Beo]

Oh yeah, don't anyone tell my boy, ya know him here as the blackmailing lil Trooper, that I read the Ranger Digest... he thinks I only read my Ranger handbook, but the digest is good :D

[crashdive123]

Army Ranger Rick - It seems (to me anyway) that you take when somebody disagrees with you kind of personal. Thanks for the clarification on the tin foil in a kit, BTW Mr. Ritter did not give me the ideas for tin foil, experience did.

[91g-dub]

I have a couple of "kits" that I've built/assembled over the years. They are all works in progress and I am constantly tinkering with them. They all serve different yet similar purposes.
I have an EDC kit in the bottom of my backpack that is always with me. I have a Get Home Bag in each of my vehicles.
The contents of these kits came from my own experience and from looking at other people's kits. I am not above stealing someone else's ideas :D
As a visitor/member of a few different survival type websites I am constantly gathering information and reviewing what others have posted. For me it's just part of the learning process.
Is my build your own kit better than the store bought ones? For me it is. Are store bought kits good? For some folks I'm sure they are.
I have seen the kits that are mentioned above, both of them are good for their intended purposes, neither one is a complete kit in my opinion. I really don't think there is a one size fits all regarding this issue.

Just my .02

[Beo]

An experienced outdoorsmen will always build their own kit, and for them it is what they feel they need and better than store bought. But that does not mean store bought or internet ordered are not good. for me I make my own and take from a few store bought, for those just getting into the wilderness and outdoors a good store bought and internet ordered is a great start until they get some time under them.
Since my son is now doing his own thing with his buddies for small overnighters and weekends I will order one, pick one up at Bass Pro, or most likely get one from ARR on his site. His site and this site keep my son and his friends interested in survival and the outdoors which is good thing.
Beo,

[Beo]

Tsk tsk Rick, remember he is entitled to his opinions, like the rest of us. If he lives in Italy and likes it, then great for him. Wish I were going skiing there in the winter.
He's proud of his accomplishments and if his Army retirement check and most importantly the money he makes from his site and products keep him going and make him a good and comfortable living then my hats off to him.
Actually starting a site and drawing from his 20+ years in the Army and Rangers was in my opinion pretty smart. Even doing the Ranger digest was smart and it alone makes good money, hmmmm I need to do something like that... oh yeah I'm a published author :D See a grunt can make it.
I seem to remember you closing a similar post for things like that.
Beo,

[Beo]

For the record Rick I was joking with ya and understand why you closed that post and appreciate it really.

[Rick]

I don't have any problem being told I'm wrong. I might have been so I deleted it.

[Beo]

Awe Rick I was joking bro, come on its FRIDAY!!!!:D

[Rick]

More to the story than just your post. I just thought it was the better thing to do.

[klkak]

Trax: Um, you good? cause I'm good.

KLKAK: Yea, yea I'm good.

Trax: Good, Now don't ever speak a word of this to anyone.

KLKAK: Oh ok, not a word.

[sh4d0wm4573ri7]

I have the sk by Mr. Ritter, And only because I wanted to test and check out its contents. I make my own kits and add and remove some things constantly. Mr. Ritters kit is a bare bones starter kit and while lacking several items my opinion is that it is a very good starting point. Please give him an applaud he made a basic affordable kit , and make no mistake his instruction sheet tells you straight forward YOU NEED TO ADD SEVERAL ITEMS TO MAKE IT COMPLETE. A fixed blade knife is recommended as well as a cooking vessel,water purifier, container etc the items in the kit are good quality though not necessarily my choice all in all he does not try to mislead you he did a good job made it affordable and includes the fact that you need more in a survival situation . Ranger Rick has some decent stuff also and alot of good advice and tricks , however Ranger Rick that saw you include , lol only use I have found for it is to hang myself after dealing with the frustration of trying to use it on wood. I would reccomend the Ritter kit as a good starting point for a psk add a fixed blade knife, condom , water purifier, and a small cooking vessel and your on your way to a decent kit , just my opinion though .

[Army Ranger Rick]

sh4dwm4573ri7 WROTE:


"Ranger Rick has some decent stuff also and alot of good advice and tricks , however Ranger Rick that saw you include , lol only use I have found for it is to hang myself after dealing with the frustration of trying to use it on wood. I would reccomend the Ritter kit as a good starting point for a psk add a fixed blade knife, condom , water purifier, and a small cooking vessel and your on your way to a decent kit , just my opinion though."

MY COMMENTS: I agree, Doug Ritter's survival kit is a good "starter kit." But.... based on the price that he is asking for his kit.... As a survival kit developer and seller myself he could have easily acquired and included these missing survival items (a knife, mini LED lite, water purification tablets, etc) in his kit for the same price.

I am not going to be surprise if he acquirers and includes these missing items in his survival kit later on, especailly after he reads postings like these on other survival sites and forums.

As for the wire saw that comes with my SOS Survival Kits.... As I mention on my website under "Survival Wire Saws"....There are not a lot of very good wire saws on the market, a lot of them are nothing more but "cut up toothless spiral wire saws." Oh they'll cut through wood like butter but only when attached to some 5,000 wood cutting machinery. But to use them as a handsaw they suck, they cut terribly.

The wire saws that come with my SOS Survival Kits are manufactured by BCB International, a leading UK military / outdoor survival manufacturer and supplier.

Since choosing the BCB wire saw over five other wire saw manufacturers, I have only received one or two complaints (not including yours) about it's cutting capability. Unless someone knows another lightweight wire saw manufacturer that I don't know about, the BCB Int'l wire saw is the best lightweight wire saw on the market because it actually has "teeth" and is not made of some "twisted toothless spiral wire."

To see what I mean and what I am talking about, check out the different types of wire saws that I show on my website (The **********.Com) under my "Survival Wire Saw" page and you'll see what I am talking about.

Again, if someone knows a better lightweight compact wire saw, please let me know where to find it and I will be happy to check it out and test it and if it's better than what I now sell I will replace it.

One thing you should know about cutting wood with a wire saw...

As a general wood cutting rule you should never use a wire saw to cut anything thicker than your wrist or arm. Why? Because the thicker the wood - the shorter the strokes and the more time you'll waste trying to cut through it. To save time, energy and burning up precious calories. Cut only 1/2 to 2/3 through the wood and then break it the rest of the way with your foot or by slamming it up against a tree or rock. Works for me every time.

Now, I hope what I wrote and explained here SOMEONE won't take offense to my comments and think I am defending my SOS Survival kit. Again, if someone knows another type of wire saw that's a lot better than what I am now selling, let me know where to find it and I'll check it out, order it and test it.

Fair enough?

[Ole WV Coot]

I believe this horse has been ridden into the ground before, or I took an extra long nap a few months ago. I also have a survival kit for sale, the kit has a Frost knife I got a bunch from a TV channel and will pass along your choice. If sold out I will substitute one of equal value. my kit is only $29.95 and includes the knife, you add the other components of your choice. The knife is guaranteed for 30 days or until the box is opened, whichever comes first. Contact me quickly feeding the fat UPS man waiting for the pickups will increase the price.

[Sarge47]

sh4dwm4573ri7 WROTE:

(Quote) "Ranger Rick has some decent stuff also and alot of good advice and tricks , however Ranger Rick that saw you include , lol only use I have found for it is to hang myself after dealing with the frustration of trying to use it on wood. I would reccomend the Ritter kit as a good starting point for a psk add a fixed blade knife, condom , water purifier, and a small cooking vessel and your on your way to a decent kit , just my opinion though." (Unquote)

MY COMMENTS: I agree, Doug Ritter's survival kit is a good "starter kit." But.... based on the price that he is asking for his kit.... As a survival kit developer and seller myself he could have easily acquired and included these missing survival items (a knife, mini LED lite, water purification tablets, etc) in his kit for the same price.

I am not going to be surprise if he acquirers and includes these missing items in his survival kit later on, especailly after he reads postings like these on other survival sites and forums.

As for the wire saw that comes with my SOS Survival Kits.... As I mention on my website under "Survival Wire Saws"....There are not a lot of very good wire saws on the market, a lot of them are nothing more but "cut up toothless spiral wire saws." Oh they'll cut through wood like butter but only when attached to some 5,000 wood cutting machinery. But to use them as a handsaw they suck, they cut terribly.

The wire saws that come with my SOS Survival Kits are manufactured by BCB International, a leading UK military / outdoor survival manufacturer and supplier.

Since choosing the BCB wire saw over five other wire saw manufacturers, I have only received one or two complaints (not including yours) about it's cutting capability. Unless someone knows another lightweight wire saw manufacturer that I don't know about, the BCB Int'l wire saw is the best lightweight wire saw on the market because it actually has "teeth" and is not made of some "twisted toothless spiral wire."

To see what I mean and what I am talking about, check out the different types of wire saws that I show on my website (The Ranger Digest.Com) under my "Survival Wire Saw" page and you'll see what I am talking about.

Again, if someone knows a better lightweight compact wire saw, please let me know where to find it and I will be happy to check it out and test it and if it's better than what I now sell I will replace it.

One thing you should know about cutting wood with a wire saw...

As a general wood cutting rule you should never use a wire saw to cut anything thicker than your wrist or arm. Why? Because the thicker the wood - the shorter the strokes and the more time you'll waste trying to cut through it. To save time, energy and burning up precious calories. Cut only 1/2 to 2/3 through the wood and then break it the rest of the way with your foot or by slamming it up against a tree or rock. Works for me every time.

Now, I hope what I wrote and explained here SOMEONE won't take offense to my comments and think I am defending my SOS Survival kit. Again, if someone knows another type of wire saw that's a lot better than what I am now selling, let me know where to find it and I'll check it out, order it and test it.

Fair enough?
1st just let me say that I, for one, welcome your comments and your presence here on this forum. It's really great to have someone with your experience here to share with this group, especially with a lot of the young ones that show up here from time-to-time. We just recently had another one that intends to become a Ranger.

2nd, the rules state that any url linking to your own personal web-site cannot be posted in the body of your text, but rather in your signature, which is better anyway as then it comes up automatically every-time you post. Please notice that I'm editing your posts where you've included the link to your site in the body of the text and, in one instance, edited it into your signature. I feel that any choice of survival gear will be a matter of personal choice & therefore interested parties should view EVERY possible choice available, & that includes your kits & manuals as well. So, in saying that, I truly hope you'll add your link to your signature as to give anyone here who might be interested a chance to personally visit your Web-site. I've visited it & really enjoy it!:D

3rd, I agree with your view on Aluminum foil as being a poor substitute for a water pot & also agree that the army canteen with cup is much more preferable. I recently used foil to bake potatoes & also a separate set-up to cook steak, onions, & mushrooms over a campfire. While it worked out just fine it's safe to say that the foil was not going to be any help after the 1st use for much of anything. Although it can have other uses as the former Navy vet, Crashdive suggests.;)

Finally, it's great to hear from you again, please don't be a stranger...Ranger!:rolleyes:

[SARKY]

Like most commercial kits, they are flawed. In fact i don't even find them to be a good starting point. Why waste my money on an over priced kit that i am going to gut anyway? My everyday kit is housed in a specops brand drycell on board which easily fits into a BDU pocket or can be hung on a belt. in this i have a small fixed blade knife(cold steel mini pendelton hunter), a locking folding blade knife (swiss army hunter model), a small led light, flint and steel, whistle, compass, condom, iodine tablets, small firstaid kit, some heavy duty aluminiun foil, OB brand tampoons (tinder for my fire starting), 550 cord, a spool of 60 lb. test spider wire fishing line, some hooks, and a small plant ID and survival book.
This may seem like a lot but it all fits in this small pouch. My main survival kit is much more extensive, most of it fitting into a spec ops brand pack rat pouch. This pouch along with my water filter, poncho, cooking kit, spare socks and undies, and a 2.1 liter water bladder fits into a Kifaru E&E (escape and evasion) pack.
My advice is figure out what you need/want to carry, find a container/pouch/pack that fits your needs and build your kit.

[crashdive123]

Sounds like a nice little kit SARKY. Why not head on over to the introduction section and tell us a bit more about yourself. Thanks.

[Rick]

I think it depends on your skill and experience level, Sarky. I would agree with you but I'd rather see a novice have a survival kit of any type than nothing at all. Hopefully the kit has some instructions for the novice.:p

[Ameriborn]

I'd rather see a novice have a survival kit of any type than nothing at all

That is the most true statement I have ever read.

My little brother (Whom is 14) while we were out hunting in Southern Ohio, actually lost track of time and it turned dark on him. He couldn't see a thing at night, but he remembered his survival kit, which contained only a few items. (Fire Starter, tinder, whistle, LED Light, small flashlight, water purification and an emergency poncho I believe was all that was in it) and he needed to use the Flahslight to find his way home. He started walking witout it, remembered it, used the flashlight only to find he was going the wrong way.

[SARKY]

Hey Marcraft.... you don't really carry all that stuff on your back into the woods????
Damm! I thought I carried a lot of stuff!

[SARKY]

hey Army Ranger Rick, I went to your web site and i've gotta say what were you thinking when you list 550 cord as a luxury item??? I'm a retired SERE (Survival, Evasion, Resistance, Escape) Instructor, and we lived or died by our use of 550 cord. It's not like the stuff weighs so much or takes up a lot of space!

[Beo]

How I missed this thread is beyond me.
Klak I like your kit alot, love the vest especially as its on you so losing things would be hard to do. Only thing I'd change... nah, nothing I really like it.
And Crash's avatar looks like he's on a sub with that glowing red light flashing and the big horn going Ahhhooooga Ahhhooooga!! :D

[Bibow]

when i'm not paying attention it looks like somebody wearing a red cloak oh yeah nice kit

[SurvivalkitsUSA]

hey Army Ranger Rick, I went to your web site and i've gotta say what were you thinking when you list 550 cord as a luxury item??? I'm a retired SERE (Survival, Evasion, Resistance, Escape) Instructor, and we lived or died by our use of 550 cord. It's not like the stuff weighs so much or takes up a lot of space!

My Dad always told me you could never have enough 550 Cord. Its the best out there for the size and price.

[Army Ranger Rick]

Hi ya all.

I know it's been awhile, but I just stopped by for a few minutes to say hello and to post a comment here....

Sarky wrote: "Hey Army Ranger Rick, I went to your web site and i've gotta say what were you thinking when you list 550 cord as a luxury item??? I'm a retired SERE (Survival, Evasion, Resistance, Escape) Instructor, and we lived or died by our use of 550 cord. It's not like the stuff weighs so much or takes up a lot of space!"

Me, personally, I don't really consider 550 Paracord to be a "must have or die" survival item. Sure it's a nice to have, no doubt about it. But before I ever heard of the stuff, like when I was a kid growing up hunting & fishing back in the 60's. I use to make shelters, animal traps and go fishing without it by just using regular ol' rolled up copper wire and nylon fishing line.

And so that's why I consider it (550 paracord) a luxury item like some of that other survival stuff that I list on my site. You know as the rule goes..."the less you know about survival, the more stuff you need to pack & carry - the more you know, the less you need."

If I'm carrying a BOB or small pack, sure I, too, carry some 550 paracord with me along with my solar-handcrank am/fm radio that most people DON'T think it's a necessity.

But I do, because if I'm alone and all by myself in the boonies, which I sometimes like to get away by myself, I don't like listening to myself talk.

Oh, there's nothing wrong with talking to yourself if you're all by yourself, as long as you don't ask yourself questions and answer yourself back.

And so that's why I take & pack my radio and some paracord too, but only if I am carrying a small pack or BOB.

BTW, being you're an ex-ol'SERE instructor, I got a question for you....What do you think of those "Survival Weapons" ideas on my site? Those few items that I suggest you pack and carry in your pocket survival kit? The cement nails, some duct tape, thick rubber bands and a few screw eyelets so you can make a couple of those weapons.

I'd like to get your feedback on my simple improvised survival weapons, as I have never seen anyone else come up with these ideas.

If you haven't yet made any of these weapons, make'em and try'em first and then let me know what you really think of them. Ok?

Really, I'd like to get your input and feedback as I am planning on submitting these ideas thru the US military channels.

Okey-dokey?

[klkak]

Hey ARR, One of those weapons you show on your web site my Grandfather taught me to make back in my preteen years. Its the stick and rubber band arrow or rock launcher. It wasn't a great leap from it to making a crossbow which I started doing when I was about 14. When I saw the pic's of it on your web site it brought back some memories. When my grandson comes over this weekend I think I will teach him how to make one. Thanks for making me remember.

[SARKY]

I don't think that I can agree with you Rick. A crappy kit could be even more dangerous than no kit at all. If you give a novice false confidence with a kit that will fail them, they will more than likely put themselves in a more dangerous situation thinking that the kit will get them out of it. Where as with no kit at all they know pretty much where they stand in the survival situation. Something is better than nothing only if it will work.

[mcfd45]

I thought I would post what is in my kit that I am trying to pull together (I am well aware I need some more stuff) I plan to use this in my car since i am rarely away from my car. RIght now it is in a olive drab messenger bag thingy. I don't plan to go hiking through the woods with this but to have it ready if needed for anything.

I carry in it
2 space blankets
6 snap glo sticks
small bottle of hand sanitizer

1 fishing kit that contains
12lb test line
30lb test line
assorted sinkers
a few jig heads
a dozen or so hooks of various sizes
some swivels
everything is on safety pins and in a small plano box.

swiss army knife
nail clippers (personal phobia lol)
needles and thread
one of those 5-in-1 whistle things with some matches an striker in it
a pack of fuel cubes for easy fire starting.
100' of 550 cord
roll of ducktape (collapsed the tube inside)

first aid kit in a plano box
bandaids
alcohol prep pads ( fire or cleanse wounds)
triple antibiotic
steristrips
2 suture sets
2 chlorapreps for cleaning wounds (better than alcohol, it kills virus' as well)
hemostat
scalpel
tweezers
some gauze pads (2X2,4X4)
and most important the knowledge of an EMT
(thinking i need to add some meds)

I would add to this kit some items from work.
Surefire G2Led and batteries
Leatherman kick
Nalagene water bottle
gerber folder knife
EMT shears (cuts anything under the sun)

I am still building my kit. I know i need more in the ways of H2O and hunting.
The area I live in (where the kit will see use) is next to a major river I have fished for years. I plan to focus on using the water resources available to me. I am still building this kit and would welcome any advice.

[chiye tanka]

Sounds like you've got a good start. What are you storing it in?

[Sarge47]

Sounds like you've got a good start. What are you storing it in?

Uh, C.T.: He posted the answer, here it is: "Right now it is in a olive drab messenger bag thingy."

OK Boys & Toys, here's what you've all been waiting for, Sarge's Survival kit in order of importance:

1.) Your brain!
2.) The knowledge, both physical and academic, that you store there!
3.) Your Clothing!
4.) The proper components that covers all 8 purposes: a.) fire & light;
b.) signaling; c.) Navigation; d.) water & food collection e.) shelter
& personal protection; f.) medical; g.) knives & tools; h.) multi-purpose
items.

All items should be germaine to the locale in question.:cool:

[chiye tanka]

Thanks Sarge, missed that.:o

[Sarge47]

Things I'll never include in my kit. Some of you will probably have no problem with them but I do so they stay out.

1.) Razor blades. Some "genius" figured that a razor blade would be a cool "sub" for a knife.:rolleyes: There IS no sub for a good knife!:mad: Also, somewhere on this site are graphic photos of a members slashed up hand when his razor blade went berserk! He had to have stitches! Think of that happening deep in the woods! Talk about creating your own "survival scenario".

2,) One of those "wittle itty-bitty cable saws." I've even heard somebody say they were "crakerjack!" Or maybe that was where he found his.:rolleyes: Also I'd never wear one around my neck!:eek:

3.) Those 2 chemicals Les Stroud used to start a fire. Smells like a disaster waiting to happen.

Anybody else want to contribute? We've talked a-plenty about what to include, let's hear some opinions on "survival kit no-nos".:confused::cool:

[chiye tanka]

I agree with you Sarge, I can't stand those wire saws. Never had one make it through 3 or 4 strokes.
When I lived in Mass., I was told that all the old-timers used to carry a razor blade wrapped in a hankie to field dress deer. I think that's insane.

[tsitenha]

Razor or razor blade? I do carry a straight razor with me for the obvious use and I suppose it would be capable skinning with proper experience.
I have talked to 2 doctors out mooze hunting and having field dressed, quartered a mooze with scalpels (forgot their knives somewheres:eek:) took a long time and many blade changes:D
Even those hand held cable or "emergency chain saws"
I wonder,...You loop/wrap the "saw" blade around a tree, grab the handles loops (some go around your wrist) and start cutting towards your self...
the tree is cut and as it starts to fall you realize that you are still tied to the "saw"...
now comes the good part the butt comes up a butt strokes you in the kisser.
I wonder what will be your thoughts?

[crashdive123]

Ouch???????

[Bibow]

id be wondering why the h3ll i thought i could cut down a tree with a cable saw in the first place.

[samfranklin]

Hiya Guys as I am quite new I thought i wold introduce you to me with my Tobacco tin (or around that!) Survival kit!

The Contents Are:

4 Cotton Wool
4 Vaseline covered cotton wool
1 wire saw
2 stock cubes
2 energy sweets
1 Fishing kit
1 mini maglite
1 Tampon
1 flint striker
1 Needle rapped with coarse thread!

And fill any spare space with more cotton wool

Any questions just ask!

[crashdive123]

Hello and welcome. What size is your tobacco tin?

[Rick]

What the hey is cotton wool? Is it anything like wool cotton?

[Riverrat]

Welcome....

[nell67]

Welcome to the forum.

[samfranklin]

my tobacco tin is actually a small mess tin the measurements are looking down bottom to top 8.4cm width 11.4 cm and height is 3 cm hope this helps also you might want to add some aspirin paracetomol!

Carry on Camping!

[Rick]

Do you really have a need to inhibite prostaglandin synthesis in the brain? That's way too serious for me.

[crashdive123]

The reason I asked was that somebody was looking for a small tin. That size is a bit small for what was being looked for. Thanks.

[chiye tanka]

Welcome aboard.

[sh4d0wm4573ri7]

Welcome to the forum

[RaymondPeter]

Welcome to the site

[Runs With Beer]

Welcome to the Forum Dont be Screed. This ill only hurt for a little while.

[Sarge47]

Hiya Guys as I am quite new I thought i wold introduce you to me with my Tobacco tin (or around that!) Survival kit!

The Contents Are:

4 Cotton Wool
4 Vaseline covered cotton wool
1 wire saw
2 stock cubes
2 energy sweets
1 Fishing kit
1 mini maglite
1 Tampon
1 flint striker
1 Needle rapped with coarse thread!

And fill any spare space with more cotton wool

Any questions just ask!

What, no condoms? Gee, there's something you don't see every day, a Newby starting out by posting his Survival kit. Thanks dude, I've never seen a Survival Kit before,:rolleyes: I hesitate to ask what the Tampon is for.:rolleyes:

[sgtdraino]

The tampon is, of course, for bullet wounds. Can also be used as kindling or filtration.

[Dave Johns]

Interesting selection of kit. I have a "always with me" kit, which is slightly different, but serves a similar purpose. (getting my back end from a bad spot, to a less bad spot, quickly)

4"x4" sterile gauze pads
several plain ol bandages
roll of electrical tape (millions of uses)
bic lighter
led mini flashlight
leatherman
a couple of iodine tabs for water purification
small tin of asperin and advil

This is in no way meant to be a "survival kit", but more of a "dammit where did I park the truck" kit...

comments welcome.

[klkak]

Do you really have a need to inhibite prostaglandin synthesis in the brain? That's way too serious for me.

Rick there is no call for insults and cussing in foreign languages!!!:mad:


:D

[Sarge47]

The tampon is, of course, for bullet wounds. Can also be used as kindling or filtration.
That's a relief, as long as it's not for nose bleeds......:rolleyes::eek::cool:

[crashdive123]

It's for camouflage. In the northern climates use it to simulate and blend in with snow. In the southern climates use it to hide in cotton fields.:D

[samfranklin]

The Tampon also makes good fire tinder as well as camo and bullet wounds!

Thanks for the question ask me any more if you have any!

[trax]

Nice to meet you Sam

[Rick]

Okay. What is cotton wool? Never heard of it.

[crashdive123]

I've heard of cotton pickin wool.

[nell67]

It's for camouflage. In the northern climates use it to simulate and blend in with snow. In the southern climates use it to hide in cotton fields.:D
I'm trying to imagine the size of a tampon needed to camouflage one of you guys ANYWHERE,that would be one HUGE tampon.......

[Gray Wolf]

Welcome....

[Sarge47]

Thanks for the question ask me any more if you have any!
I've just moved your thread over to the "Survival Kit Info" Sticky where I feel it belongs, understand?:cool:

[Rick]

I'm trying to imagine the size of a tampon needed

And I'm trying to get the images out of my head!:eek::eek::eek::eek::eek:

[samfranklin]

i already have a sk if you read it on the intro page it says what it had in it!

[Sarge47]

i already have a sk if you read it on the intro page it says what it had in it!
It's not there anymore, I moved it over here. The intro section is where you tell us about you, not what you carry in your pockets, understand?:cool:

[Pal334]

New guy here,, a handy looking kit

[crashdive123]

Hey Pal334 - how about heading over to the introduction section and tell us about yourself. Thanks.

[Pal334]

Already done,, still "fuddling" with it. Been "lurking for a bit, enjoying the banter

[GreatWhiteHunter]

well i am using a small vietnam era backpack.

1.hatchet
2,multi tool
3.buck knife
4.saw
5.survival fishing kit
6.binoculars
7.fire starter
8.spotlight
9.water filter
10.snare line
11.tarp
12.map
13.ar-15
14.headlamp
15.large axe

is there anything else i missed?i am already considering the clothes on my back and my shoes.:D:D

[crashdive123]

When you say survival kit, what are you imagining that you would need it for? I ask because it's intended use will be important when planning what goes in it.

[GreatWhiteHunter]

well i have it all done,and i have these things because i go into the wood alot and thats mainly where im camping

[crashdive123]

OK - you see, when you use the terminology "survival kit" I envision those items needed to keep you alive in a "survival situation" which is quite a bit different than camping. But hey, if it's done and you like it.......

[RangerXanatos]

A couple of things that caught my eye right off the bat...

1. Why the hatchet? You already have a saw and and axe...
2. I didn't see any rope listed?
3. Only one way to start a fire?
4. What about something to eat?
5. How about a whistle?
6. I hope you have a compass with that map and know how to use it.
7. Nobody's kit is perfect...

[crashdive123]

Based on some other threads GWH - #6 on RX's list of suggestions should be way up on the top of things to add.

[Sourdough]

well i am using a small vietnam era backpack.

1.hatchet
2,multi tool
3.buck knife
4.saw
5.survival fishing kit
6.binoculars
7.fire starter
8.spotlight
9.water filter
10.snare line
11.tarp
12.map
13.ar-15
14.headlamp
15.large axe

is there anything else i missed?i am already considering the clothes on my back and my shoes.:D:D


A Peterbilt 379 or a Kenworth 900 should round out the package.

[GreatWhiteHunter]

thats gay advice.the guns for food,and the hatchet is for lighter self defense

[crashdive123]

thats gay advice.the guns for food,and the hatchet is for lighter self defense

Careful which lines you cross GWH. You posted a list and asked for opinions. Remember this......if you don't like the answer, don't ask the question.

[nell67]

What Crash said!

GWH,have you checked out the posts others have posted of their kits?? Do a search and check them out if you haven't,you may find quite a few things you may need to rethink in your own kit.

[chiggersngrits]

what about a firstaid kit?

[Sarge47]

GWH, I've moved your thread over to the "Survival kits sticky" where all the other lists are. This is where it belongs. BTW, Chig. made a great suggestion about the 1st aid kit. It never ceases to amaze me how a Tenderfoot will fill the "weapons" portion of their list, yet neglect the most important stuff.:cool:

[crashdive123]

It never ceases to amaze me how a Tenderfoot will fill the "weapons" portion of their list, yet neglect the most important stuff.:cool:

But it kind of makes you wonder if it is filled in the kit or the mind. As Hope said, the AR 15 is not the platmorm for a .308.

[FVR]

Uh, hmmmm..........so, what's a survival kit? I carry a bag made out of a blanket, with a tin cup, a few rocks, a piece of steel, an old folding knife. I do carry bandaids in my wallet, but that's for my kids booboos.

My Murse.

[samfranklin]

GWH-

If you don't want any advice or comments on your kit then don't ask us if there is anything you have missed.

[dougz]

My ready pack for a S&R call:

To be worn out the door:

jacket, poly. pants and shirt, scarf, boots, snow pants, wool socks, poly. hat w/earmuffs


Lowe Alpine TFX Horizon 65 pack 35lbs, full



Shelter

1 50' nylon rope
1 100' ball of twine
1 10m. heavy wire
4 bungee cords
2 14x14 tarps
1 Woods Lite Loft sleeping bag (rated +5C/41F)
3 emergency blankets

Clothes

2 toques
1 balaclava
1 pr of poly. cargo pants
1 pr warm gloves
1 pr leather work gloves
4 pr wool socks
1 pr syn. liner socks
1 pr syn. thermal underwear
2 pr cotton underpants
1 rain poncho
1 rain suit (pant/jacket)

Light/Fire

1 80 lumin Dewalt flashlight w/ spare batt.
2 light sticks
1 emergency candle
1 emergency stove with fuel
1 magic striker w piece of fat wood
1 pack of fire sticks
1 pack of waterproof matches

Food

2 aluminum pots (.9L and 1.4L) w/lids and pot grip
1 stainless steel mug
1 knife/fork.spoon set
2 servings of oatmeal with blueberries
2 servings of trail mix
4 granola bars
1.5 L of gatorade
1.5 L of water

Rescue/ Misc

1 first aid kit (clothes scissors/ 1 soaker band./ 1 tri. band./rubber gloves)
1 pocket mask (for mouth to mouth)
1 shatterproof mirror
1 whistle
1 E Trex H GPS with spare batt.
1 multitool (pliers, saw, wire cutter, scizzors etc)
1 spare set of glasses
1 mosquito repellent
1 roll toilet paper
4 lg ziplock bags
1 10m. light (trap) wire
1 Fiskars hatchet
2 orange garbage bags
FOLDING SAW???



Thoughts?

Additions, subtractions?

[klkak]

Am I packing to much? To heavy?

That depends on how fit you are. If you can only go a couple hundred yards before having a major heart attack. Then you are carrying to much weight.

If you are on a certified search and rescue team then you should have a T.O.A that tells you what you should be carrying. Anything else is just extra crap you have to lug around.

Where is the first aid kit?

[dougz]

Whoops..

Good point..

I am 35, 6'3" 215 lbs, and I go to the gym every second day.

Try to get a 3 mile run in every weekend..

First aid kit is in the backpack in a separate pocket.

Note the extra clothes can be for other S&A members or the subject.

I am packing for a little comfort, not just bare bones survival.

[Sourdough]

Where is the first aid kit?

First Aid kit...??? more important where is the whiskey bottle. Loose the Granola bars, and pack more whiskey.....;)

[dougz]

pack more whiskey.....

Right.. Antiseptic.. :)

I was thinking..

How in the heck am I supposed to get the pots over the fire..

https://www.taigaworks.ca/cart.php?m=product_detail&p=173

I'll need some kind of lightweight grill, no?

http://www.preparedness.com/grpoststcagr.html

[klkak]

Whoops..

Good point..

I am 35, 6'3" 215 lbs, and I go to the gym every second day.

Try to get a 3 mile run in every weekend..

First aid kit is in the backpack in a separate pocket.

Note the extra clothes can be for other S&A members or the subject.

I am packing for a little comfort, not just bare bones survival.

Along with the running you might want to include a couple ruck-walks a week with a 40lb pack. Do at least the same distance you are running or more if you can. Everything changes with that pack on your back.

[catfish10101]

I agree, you should be taking a hike with your pack regularly to get used to doing it. This is how I got used to my fire gear (I've been a volunteer fireman for 10 years, that's all we have here), I wore my gear and a pack (breating from the scba) once a week until I was used to working with it. Was actually harder than I thought it would be.

[wareagle69]

doug you can be that big and have a knee problem or neck issues so it does come down to how much you can handle, what do you need a grill for? i carry a verry small light weight kettle in my pack and if nessecarry can use a sterno can surrounded by rocks to perch on top , but does take a while or use the ray mears method and have a jolly roaring fire and use a stick to suspend your kettle above.

[tsitenha]

Dougz, I would pare down a bit: loose
1 toque
1 14x14 tarp
trade warm gloves for warm mitts
use tarp instead of poncho (you got a rain suit)
with all those cold weather clothes do you need mosquito repellent?
the heavy wire (you got the trap wire)
personally I would go down a bit more but...

[dougz]

you should be taking a hike with your pack regularly to get used to doing it

Hmm..

Good idea..

I'll take my pack on my run route once it warms up a bit here..

I have experience with turnout gear and SCBA as well, being on my mills emergency response team..

Good suggestions, tsitenha..

Could indeed probably go with only one tarp..

But the extra clothes, shelter material, like I say, I was thinking it would be a good idea to have for other team members that might need them, or for the person we may find..

The poncho is about the size of a wallet, so it might as well stay.. Like I say, someone else might need one down the road..

As for the mosquito repellent, obviously that's for the summer.. :)

Dunno why I put that down..

Obviously the clothes compliment will be different as well..

The heavy wire I was thinking I could use for this or that, where twine, etc. wouldn't work..

What about bear spray?

Also thinking a fixed blade knife would come in handy....

[tsitenha]

A knife would be good or an ax in my case.
Can't carry everything for other team members, I used to be a donkey, (carry the load) but no more, they have to learn. Give them a list, let them be their own mule.
Extra for a victim is OK but limit it.
I use 3 sets of socks; 1 pr worn, 1 pr drying, 1 pr clean ready to replace the first; foot powder is good.

[crashdive123]

Doug - the neat thing about it is that you have a pretty good list. You have gotten some good suggestions too. Over time you will find what works best for you and refine what you bring.

[dougz]

Yup, for sure..

Can't wait for my first call! :)

I'll be on the lookout for a good fixed blade (looking at the Gerber Big Rock), a folding saw (either the Gerber, Sawvivor or the Wyoming), and a pair of mitts..

[rockymtnchief]

I used to be torn between a rain poncho and a rain suit. I ditched the rain jacket and wear the rain pants with the poncho. One less garment to pack. The reason I like the poncho better is it can be used for shelter or you can squat down, pull it around you snuggly, light a candle inside, and stay warm. (be careful)

[dougz]

Yeah, this poncho is pretty bare bones.. :)

http://www.campingsurvival.com/raingear.html

Fit's in your pocket..

The gain gear is a bit more substantial..

http://www.campingsurvival.com/threpiecrain.html

I'm keeping the rain suit in it's bag..

I took it out to size it, but there was no way I could get it to pack as compactly..

So I just returned it for a new one.. LOL

[Badawg]

I would loose the second cook pot too. It's bulk you don't really need it when you have a mug too. and do you really need 2? I just carry an MSR cup in my nalgene skin, and have never needed more. holds 24 OZ. it's like the olicamp, only i got it for 3 bucks at a surplus store.

[dougz]

I would loose the second cook pot too.

Good point..

They fit inside one another, but I could pack some food inside instead..

Note that the lid for the pot doubles as a frying pan (not that I can imagine frying anything)..

https://www.taigaworks.ca/cart.php?m=product_detail&p=173

[trax]

Dude, I don't think I've got that much stuff in my house :eek:! Hey, your call, and you can go right ahead and put them cook pots on the fire, You just cut a little switch to lift them off with, they'll get all smoke smudgy though... they've got bail handles right?

[dougz]

they've got bail handles right?

Dunno about bail handles..

The have little things on the side that you can attach a pot-gripper onto..

(that black thing beside the pots in the link I posted)

I couldn't wait for the weather to warm up, so I went out today on a 3 mile walk..

So, successful field test!

-20C and feeling fine!

Pack felt good (though I think I could have gotten it onto my hips a little better)..

Should have worn my snow pants, though!

Quads sure felt the wind..

[tsitenha]

If there are no bail handles already on the pot(s) drill 2 holes opposite each other just under the rim and fabricate a wire handle to suit. Leave enough length on the wire handle loop so that you don't scald yourself when you use it. The handle can be Stainless steel braided wire 1/16"dia., flexible and very strong. A top to the pot might be a good idea if weight is down enough.

[tsitenha]

The wire bail ends can be formed into a loop with a flemish eye and the crimped tight with an aluminum sleeve to prevent fraying and possible hand injury.

[trax]

that's pretty fancy, I was just gonna say use haywire.

[tsitenha]

Actually very fast, unravel 2 of the 3 strands about 3", with the single strand pass it through the hole, resplice the 2 and 1 strand back together into a loop, tape or crimp tight. Takes longer to type than do.

[dougz]

Hmm.. I'll see..

Dunno if I want to drill holes in a perfectly good pot.. LOL

I've whittled my pack down a bit..

I WAS going to get rid of the extra tarp..

But I thought, it weighs next to nothing, and takes up almost that in space.. Might as well hang onto it..

Was also thinking about ditching the Coughlan's emergency stove..

But it'd be nice to have inside a tent for some heat in the pouring rain/sleet..

Got rid of the Coughlin's tin of "camp heat" (diethylene glycol with wick) instead..

http://www.campingsurvival.com/cocahe.html

Got rid of the leather work gloves and the rain suit (will go into the pack for the spring/summer/fall).

Also got rid of the bungie cords (heavy, andI have plenty of twine and wire).

That's about all I can think of to part with, so far..

[tsitenha]

Don't drill the holes at the bottom:eek:
at the top man at the top 180 deg opposite each other just under the rim. LOL

[crashdive123]

This is what my pot looked like after I got carried away with the drill.

http://www.hildreths.com/IMAGES/Colander.jpg

[dougz]

Don't drill the holes at the bottom

Come on! Give me SOME credit!

Was a joke!! LOL

[tsitenha]

look above I was too late for crash :(

but a nice pattern though

[minuteman]

just wondering how many of you out there feel confident that you could survive in the wilderness with just the contents in your pockets? Also please share what you keep on your persons at all times. I keep 1 lighter, 1 generic swiss army type knife, 1 multitool, 1 flashlight and about 10 feet of cord on me at all times. I'm planning on making a more elaborate pocket survival kit. Let's hear some of your ideas.:cool:

[Sarge47]

Yo, minuteman! This subject has been done to death; go to the sticky on "Survival kits" & you'll see what I mean. I consider the question stupid, as I would never go out into the woods with what's just in my pockets; that's a "NUMPTY" thing to do.:cool:

[MCBushbaby]

Well my pockets usually consist of my blackberry, wallet, and car keys... but then again I'm in a suit and on my way to work or back from. My car emergency kit is much more extensive than anything I could possibly fit in a pocket. If I'm going dayhiking my pockets are often more prepared: fixed blade knife or multitool, altoids survival tin (too much stuff to recall), and cell phone. I've become much more of a cell phone advocate recently, as some of you may have noticed :P

[hermitman]

Well I don't keep a lot of things to survive in my pockets because of restrictions forcing me to not be able to carry certain things, but as long as you have the will you will almost always be able to survive.

[crashdive123]

Can you survive with just the cotents of your pockets? Let's see.....right now I have a fully equiped wallet, car keys, small pocket knife, lighter, bobbin of fishing line, cell phone....well actually the phone is on my belt, not in my pocket. Seems like I'm surviving just fine right now. Did you have some specific location and time of the year in mind?

[erunkiswldrnssurvival]

just wondering how many of you out there feel confident that you could survive in the wilderness with just the contents in your pockets? Also please share what you keep on your persons at all times. I keep 1 lighter, 1 generic swiss army type knife, 1 multitool, 1 flashlight and about 10 feet of cord on me at all times. I'm planning on making a more elaborate pocket survival kit. Let's hear some of your ideas.:cool:

minuteman, I specialize in "nature provides my every need". empty pockets are best used for filling with food or tools that will get you that food, and nature has that everywhere.so if you carry a pocket knife and a tuna can...
you have room for the things that you really need.

[minuteman]

I should have eloborated on my question a bit more i suppose. If you found yourself in a scenario where maybe you broke down driving through the woods miles away from town and did not have a survival kit in your vehicle. Do you think you could survive with what you have on you? If the question seems stupid to you then either you have never been in a survival situation or simply lack an imagination.

[minuteman]

No specific time or place in mind other than the woods miles away from a town. I'm trying to get some ideas for a pocket survival kit. you never know when or what events could take place where you would be forced to survive with only what you have on you.

[crashdive123]

I should have eloborated on my question a bit more i suppose. If you found yourself in a scenario where maybe you broke down driving through the woods miles away from town and did not have a survival kit in your vehicle. Do you think you could survive with what you have on you? If the question seems stupid to you then either you have never been in a survival situation or simply lack an imagination.

I don't think I have a lack of imagination, and I do my level best to not place myself in a survival situation. Personally I would not be driving a vehicle without supplies. On top of that, the best shelter you probably have if you do break down is your vehicle. I think I understand what you are looking for though, and that's cool. This thread contains a lot of information about survival kits....some big....some small. http://www.wilderness-survival.net/forums/showthread.php?t=1256

[minuteman]

I agree that nature provides, however with a few items surviving in the wild might be little easier and more barable. Out of curiosity what type of hunting weapons have you made with out cordage or with out a knife? I know there are ways. Did you flint knap a blade and use some type of vegetation for cordage. How did you acquire food? wild edibles or hunting game? Have you actually survived this way? or just making false claims? If you can do what you claim, please share in more detail how you accomplished those things. Thanks

[crashdive123]

I spent a weekend camping and had the opportunity to meet Erunkiswldrnssurvival. It is my opinion that he is very knowledgeable about wild edibles and making things in the wilderness.

[minuteman]

Sounds cool. A true survivalist can do just that, live off mother nature. I havn't quite reached that point yet, but I will. Until i learn to flint knap I will keep my pocket knife. I plan on attending a survival school in the near future. Years ago I found myself in a survival situation and know how difficult it can be surviving in the wilderness without much, but that it can be done. I don't try to put my self in survival situations, but to be prepared for one if it does happen. Case and point; the mind is ultamatley your best tool. Thanks

[Sourdough]

just wondering how many of you out there feel confident that you could survive in the wilderness with just the contents in your pockets? Also please share what you keep on your persons at all times. I keep 1 lighter, 1 generic swiss army type knife, 1 multitool, 1 flashlight and about 10 feet of cord on me at all times. I'm planning on making a more elaborate pocket survival kit. Let's hear some of your ideas.:cool:


So maybe I don't understand.....To me you are saying survive for how long .....38 years...? With just the stuff in your pockets you can survive for only 29 years. I mean surely you not talking just six months right. We are talking 30 or 40 years....right.....??????

I learned what off grid Really, really means. So what do you mean when you say survive....? How many years....come on...???

[Jericho117]

Honestly, true to myself, I believe I have the knowledge to at least survive in northeastern woodlands without anything. I have a few years experience with flintknapping and almost all of the primitive wilderness survival skills. Im an efficient hunter and gather to. As with Jungle/ Desert/ Tundra, im not so sure, I have never lived in this type of terrain so I have more expierience with forest.

[wareagle69]

well minuteman (hope you didn't get that ten dollar handle from a female) most of us folks here would never be caught w/o a kit in the vehicle especially driving down a counrty road miles from nowhere thats why we all belong here
second what i carry on my belt and in my pockets would get me thru most situations the favorite tool i would say being my pocket sized folding sierra saw can get good sized wood with it for shelters and fires next would be my swedish firesteel, then my fixed blade buck knife my leatherman wave is useful but more for work that survival but thats just me

[klkak]

What part of the world?

What type of terrain?

What weather conditions?

What length of time?

If you are going to ask a question like that at least provide some parameters!

[Sarge47]

If the question seems stupid to you then either you have never been in a survival situation or simply lack an imagination.
I smell a NUMPTY! NO! I have NEVER been in a "Survival Situation"! Why would I want to?:confused: I stay prepared enough that the odds of that ever happening are very remote; which is what ANY Survival school will teach you!
I think you're talking through your hat!:cool:

[wareagle69]

sarge even the prepared can end up in a survival situation. really old timer ya gotta reign it in sometimes, being prepared just means you have a better chance of making it thru the emergency better

[Dragonfyre]

When I go out of the house I carry my 72 hour pack. Listed below are things that are in it. Critique it if you'd like, I prefer it actually. I've needed this on more then one occasion and it's saved my rear!

72 Hour pack B.O.B. (bug out bag)
To be packed in a civilian type backpack or military style assault pack. Subdued in color, black is acceptable.
1.Poncho liner or tarp: one or both, these will be your 3-day sleeping bag/ shelter.
2.Space blanket or casualty blanket or both.
3.Lensatic compass w/pouch: USGI
4.Face paint camo: 2 colors, civilian or USGI type
5.Individual First Aid Kit: 1 tourniquet, 2 field dressings (pressure bandages) 1 sm roll adhesive tape, 6 assorted Band-Aids, 1 sm tube antibiotic ointment 1 bottle over the counter pain reliever. Additional items such as triangular bandages are highly recommended. ****I actually carry more than this****
6.550 cord: 2, 50' foot lengths or 100' minimum
7.Gloves: 1, light pair or 1 heavy pair (weather dependant) subdued in color, black acceptable.
8.Combat type knife: 6"-10" inch fixed blade.
9.Hygiene kit: 1 toothbrush, 1 sm tube of paste or powder, 1 roll floss, 1 roll toilet paper, 4oz bottle hand sanitizer, 1 wash cloth, 1 sm to med towel (both subdued in color) and 1 pack disposable unscented towelettes.
10.Fire starting equipment: 2 bic lighters or similar, 1 sparking device, 4oz of pre-made tinder in waterproof container.
11.Utility Pot: Canteen and cup.
12.Water Carrier: 2 one quart canteens or 64oz Camelback
13.Rations: 4 full 2,000 calorie meals. MRE's or homemade.
14.Small mirror: 2"x 3" min. For signaling or hygiene use.
15.Clothing: 2 pair socks, 1 worn 1 in pack. 2 t-shirts, 1 worn 1 in pack. 1 full BDU uniform (woodland camo), 1 top 1 pants 1 boonie type hat (can be what you are wearing but not recommended) 1 pants belt. 1 pair boots, Gortex lining recommended, subdued in color. 1 M-65 Field jacket (liner optional)
16.Flashlight: 1 with red, blue and green lenses. Extra batteries.
17.Documentation: personal I.D. (optional) 2 black or blue pens, sm notepad, Michigan road map. (store in zip lock bag)
18.Other inclement weather gear: Can consist of any cold/wet gear determined essential by weather projections for 72 hours and must be carried on person or in pack.
19.Other optional items: 1or 2 smaller pocket knives, digging tool (e-tool or garden trowel), any prescribed meds, small hand crank radio, 1 sm eye dropper bottle of iodine, 1 12"x12" heavy duty clear plastic sheet, sleeping bag (proper for weather conditions, must be able to secure to pack) 1 sleeping pad. 1 survival fishing kit.

I also carry a couple of those $1.00 type poncho's in blaze orange for emergencies if I'm lost and need to be found.

[Tony uk]

The only thing i might say against you kit is that you dont seem to be packing much spare clothing. Only 1 pair of socks and 1 t-shirt seem to be spares. For 72 hours that to me could pose a problem. What if you fell in a lake or similer ? You would have nothing but wet clothes other than a pair of socks (Cant ever be too much of these) and a dry t-shirt to change into (which would only get damp from the wet clothing placed on top of it.)

Just my thoughts.

[crashdive123]

Why the camo face paint?

[MCBushbaby]

Why the camo face paint?

Because he's a ninja

[crashdive123]

I don't know. Ninja's don't need no shtinkin face paint!

[ClovisMan]

Because he's a ninja
Because the guys in the movies wear it???

[MCBushbaby]

I dunno... when adding facepaint to your BOB is like saying, "CNN just said the bomb's been dropped. Time to put on the warpaint!" I'd rather have the extra hundred or so .22 rounds.

[crashdive123]

.......or it could be payback. "Hang on Honey, I'm putting my face on."

[Dragonfyre]

Because he's a ninja


Yeah, that's right! How did you know? This pack serves a few different purposes. I use alot of this stuff when I'm out hunting. I use the face paint for breaking up my BIG WHITE FACE. Your face and hands are very visible if left uncovered (like ya'll didn't know)
Mitch.Chesney says-"I'd rather have the extra hundred or so .22 rounds. "


I deleted that part out of the list for posting. I carry plenty of ammo for my rifle and/or sidearm. The camo compact is very small and takes up virtually no space. I carry a bit bigger rifle than a .22.


Is that all you guys do is bust b@lls or what?

[crashdive123]

Critique it if you'd like, I prefer it actually.

When I asked why you carry it, I was quite serious. We've had some come here and tell us all about their plans to bug out or in set up some sort of military command post and kill everything in sight. The other side of that was camo for hunting.


Is that all you guys do is bust b@lls or what?

Don't think anybody was doing that, but rather having a little fun with my question.

[MCBushbaby]

Yea, if we were really busting balls, you'd know it. Anyone care to link back to our two friends who wanted to go into the bush with just a knife? lol

[Dragonfyre]

When I asked why you carry it, I was quite serious. We've had some come here and tell us all about their plans to bug out or in set up some sort of military command post and kill everything in sight. The other side of that was camo for hunting.



Don't think anybody was doing that, but rather having a little fun with my question.



Nope, not planning on setting up a military style compound and killing everything in sight. I use it for primarily hunting purposes. Unless of course I have to hide for some reason?

[crashdive123]

OK then. Looks pretty good. Might I suggest adding some $$$, or at least a roll of quarters?

[Dragonfyre]

OK then. Looks pretty good. Might I suggest adding some $$$, or at least a roll of quarters?


Never thought of that, that's good idea. Thank you.

[klkak]

just wondering how many of you out there feel confident that you could survive in the wilderness with just the contents in your pockets? Also please share what you keep on your persons at all times. I keep 1 lighter, 1 generic swiss army type knife, 1 multi-tool, 1 flashlight and about 10 feet of cord on me at all times. I'm planning on making a more elaborate pocket survival kit. Let's hear some of your ideas.:cool:

I'm gonna use this as an opportunity to say what I keep on me at all times.

Clothes!!! unless of course I'm taking a shower or :eek: never mind.
Riggers belt
Leatherman supertool 2000
3wat led flashlight
Benchmade folding knife with 2 3/4" blade
Dakota carabiner watch
Very small swiss army knife (for cleaning fingernails and picking teeth)
Rediedge knife sharpener
Cell phone
Firesteel
Chapstik
Wallet
Keys

I'm beginning to dislike the term "survival kit"! I don't carry a survival kit with me every waking moment.

[Sourdough]

just wondering how many of you out there feel confident that you could survive in the wilderness with just the contents in your pockets? Also please share what you keep on your persons at all times. I keep 1 lighter, 1 generic swiss army type knife, 1 multitool, 1 flashlight and about 10 feet of cord on me at all times. I'm planning on making a more elaborate pocket survival kit. Let's hear some of your ideas.:cool:


NO Problem.......I NEVER...EVER....have any survival stuff in my pockets. Pockets are for earplugs and ammo....period. I have survived just fine for 62 years, with empty pockets.

[wareagle69]

I'm gonna use this as an opportunity to say what I keep on me at all times.


Very small swiss army knife (for cleaning fingernails and picking teeth)

I'm beginning to dislike the term "survival kit"! I don't carry a survival kit with me every waking moment.

must not be a plumber:eek:
kevin the term survival is commercial to me. even i the great eagle in the beginning bought many an item with the word survival in it it caught my eye and like two moose making love under a full moon i would just stop and look and the usually buy witht the thought of using or reading someday

[wareagle69]

NO Problem.......I NEVER...EVER....have any survival stuff in my pockets. Pockets are for earplugs and ammo....period. I have survived just fine for 62 years, with empty pockets.

hope don't take this the wrong way cuz i like you i really do but for some reason latley(must be the time of year) i keep pictureing you as ebenezer scroooge(or even scrouge mcduck)

[Sourdough]

hope don't take this the wrong way cuz i like you i really do but for some reason latley(must be the time of year) i keep pictureing you as ebenezer scroooge(or even scrouge mcduck)


Just telling it like it is. I kind'a feel like a trader to the forum. But I have never packed survival gear day to day. And I think people with multiple survival gear neck-less, plus an in back-pocket kit, plus belt kit, and maybe stuck in their.....:eek:...Need some help. You don't need multiple on'body kits.

Having survival gear on a boat, car, aircraft or in-home makes sense. Maybe even one small kit on you.

However some of these people are sleeping and showering in full battle dress, complete with pistol, 24/7.

In full disclosure: I hoard food, not on my person, but I am phobic about lack of food, for that reason I grant you'all survival kit nut'jobs some slack and allow for one on'person kit.

[wareagle69]

i am not overly fond of the word survival, as i have already stated i have many a time fallen for that marketing ploy, but what i carry at all times on my person or even in my halversack is to me just common sense for someone living the lifestyle that i do, more of a conveniance kit than survival kit

[Sourdough]

I take what is needed to complete the mission. To the Outhouse I take one roll of butt'wipe and a firearm.

For a 3 hour hike I just carry some extra ammo, and a snickers bar.

For a day hike I take what I might need, depending on time of year, that days weather, etc.

But I do not own a survival kit per'say. I'm going to put some small kit together for my new "Man Purse".:o:o:o

[tacticalguy]

Yeah, I hope Could survive. I keep a Leatherman Micra, Spyderco Endura, Dorcy Flashlight, and about eight feet of paracord.

[Sarge47]

Yeah, I hope Could survive. I keep a Leatherman Micra, Spyderco Endura, Dorcy Flashlight, and about eight feet of paracord.
Given that answer I don't hold out much hope for your chances.:cool:

[Pal334]

My "pocket survival gear"= An old sharp Barlow pocket knife (been with me for 30 years), pipe, tobacco and lighter (yup I am one of "those" smokers). I can sit down when the SHTF, have a smoke, clean my finger nails , study the situation and then act accordingly. No sense hurrying, good things come to those that wait.

[Leighman]

This might be prove interesting and maybe a little entertaining, too.

1976...I was about 12 and my "first" survival kit was a metal Band Aid brand rectangular box.

I punched 4 holes thorugh the back of it and threaded paracord (most likey it was cheap cotton cothes line in those days) through the holes to make a "belt loop." I crammed as much "survival gear" into it as a kid could imagine.

In those days, every survival "expert" advised packing those little aluminum foil squares of beef bouillon so I added them along with matches, a candle stub, chapstick, fishing line, hooks, .22 shells to make sinkers, a fire, and a whistle, etc...

It was July/August in eastern Kentucky and I decided to "inventory" my gear. Imagine my surprise to dump out the contents only to find one big nasty, melted glob of semi-useless crap!!!

Thankfully, I grew wiser as the years passed.:D

[MatthewnOK]

I'm trying to put my first survival kit together. What I'm looking for, which is probably unattainable, is one that is
1: Comprised of parts that can be found at stores
2: Costs less than $100 dollars
I already have some equipment I carry everyday on my belt, and/or have stashed in my closet including
Gerber multi-tool
Case pocket knife
Inova x5 flashlight
50' 550 para
Swedish Fire-steel
US canteen with little bag cup and cup stand
Gerber fixed blade knife
I know I need alot more stuff, and more importantly knowledge. Thanks in advance,
Matthew

[crashdive123]

Interesting that you picked $100 dollars. Interesting in that there is a thread about preparing a kit for $100. Here's the link.

[MatthewnOK]

Interesting that you picked $100 dollars. Interesting in that there is a thread about preparing a kit for $100. Here's the link.

I just picked $100 as a nice round sum. I forgot to search for threads I'm sorry, my mistake.

[crashdive123]

As I get older I seem to forget more.:eek: Try this one.:D http://www.wilderness-survival.net/forums/showthread.php?t=4953

[MCBushbaby]

If we're talking BOB or 72 hr kits, you might want to peruse here (http://wilderness-survival.net/forums/showthread.php?t=5067). The guy on the zombiehunters forum seems to have his act together (pictures as well, so you get an idea of size and scope)

[MatthewnOK]

As I get older I seem to forget more.:eek: Try this one.:D http://www.wilderness-survival.net/forums/showthread.php?t=4953

Don't feel bad, I forget stuff all the time :D
Thanks for the link.

[Kankujoe]

I also remember making a "survival kit" out of a tin bandaid box when I was a Cub Scout. I think it was a project that my Cub Scout Den did together. Did the same type of project several times as a Boy Scout & as a Leader. Again, did the same thing in the military.

Over the years I have made several revisions of my earlier "survival kits." My current kit is actually a series of kits. I have them for my computer bag, business travel bags, BOB, vehicles, bicycle, kayak, RV, etc. Some are stand alone, some are meant to be combined depending on activity, weather, season, and travel plans. I suspect none of my kits will ever be truly complete.

[Bladesypher]

Ok, I'm staying at a cottage for a few days, I'm going to be doing a lot of hiking so I put together a survival kit. On my person I'll be carrying a reliable folding knife, a mobile phone, a zippo lighter and a paracord survival bracelet. In the survival kit I'll also be carrying there's about 10 foot of paracord, a backup lighter (I would use a Flint and steel but mine ran out and I need to buy a new one), a whistle, a compass, a leatherman multi-tool, some anti-septic and a few plasters. I won't be staying over-night and I don't have any water purification but boiling will suffice if it comes to the crunch. So what do you guys think?

[crashdive123]

Bladesypher - I really don't know enough about your level of knowledge, experience, age, length of trip, terrain, weather conditions, etc. to offer advice (you never did an intro).

[Bladesypher]

Bladesypher - I really don't know enough about your level of knowledge, experience, age, length of trip, terrain, weather conditions, etc. to offer advice (you never did an intro).

Apologies. I'm going away for four days. I'll be staying in a cottage at night but through the day I'll be hiking over mountainous terrain. I have a fairly good amount of knowledge and experience. I've been studying and practising survival skills for about a year.

[crashdive123]

OK - I'm assuming Newcastle, Washington???? (I don't like to assume). If you're going for a day hike, dress appropriately and have a blast. You said
I won't be staying over-night and I don't have any water purification but boiling will suffice if it comes to the crunch. What are you going to boil it in? You may want to add something to carry water in and a couple of protien bars. I always ask myself - what would I need if I had to spend the night?

[MCBushbaby]

ALWAYS CARRY ENOUGH WATER, ESPECIALLY IN WINTER

4 quarts per day minimum, 6+ with arctic or mountaineering

[Bladesypher]

Newcastle in the uk, I'll be staying in Penrith which is in the lake district. Thanks for reminding me about something to boil water in, it'ssomething I should have noticed. I'll have water on me too. Mitch I'll add a couple of protein bars to the kit. Cheers

[doug1980]

I'm still kinda new here but when I start hiking this Spring I'm going to add a day to the hike and bring gear accordingly. Never know what might happen to delay your return.

[crashdive123]

On New Years Day my wife and I are being dropped off on a barrier island (being picked up late that same day, but as I said, I always plan for - what if I have to spend the night. Two purposes for this – 1) to have a blast exploring an island with a large feral horse population and 2) to scout out (and convince my wife) some camping possibilities. Here’s what I plan on bringing.

Metal canteen cup
Fixed blade knife
Folding knife
2 hacksaw blade knives with duct tape scales
LED flashlight
2 Chemical light sticks
Leatherman Wave
2 Space blankets
4 Chemical hand warmers
1 plastic painters tarp (about 9X7 and very thin)
Compass
Map of island
Chart of surrounding waters
Whistle
Mirror
4 nails wrapped in fishing line
Pen wrapped in duct tape
Paper
6 safety pins
4 heavy duty sewing needles
2 bobbins wound with braided fishing line
Portable Aqua (water purification tablets)
6 fishing hooks
6 small lead sinkers
2 1 gallon zip lock bags
50 ft paracord
1.5 ft of surgical tubing
First aid kit
Fire kit
1 Swiss Tech drinking bottle (32 oz)
2 hydration packs (one 2 liter, one 3 liter)
Appropriate clothing
Rain suits
4 protein bars
Picnic lunch
Camera
Cell phone

Sounds like a lot, but fits nicely in our Camelback Packs.

[Bladesypher]

I envy you crashdive, my adventure is puny in comparison to yours, enjoy yourself ^^

[crashdive123]

Nah. Just a little exploring. I tend to bring a bit more when my wife is with me. I'm kind of protective that way.

[klkak]

On New Years Day my wife and I are being dropped off on a barrier island (being picked up late that same day, but as I said, I always plan for - what if I have to spend the night. Two purposes for this – 1) to have a blast exploring an island with a large feral horse population and 2) to scout out (and convince my wife) some camping possibilities. Here’s what I plan on bringing.

Metal canteen cup
Fixed blade knife
Folding knife
2 hacksaw blade knives with duct tape scales
LED flashlight
2 Chemical light sticks
Leatherman Wave
2 Space blankets
4 Chemical hand warmers
1 plastic painters tarp (about 9X7 and very thin)
Compass
Map of island
Chart of surrounding waters
Whistle
Mirror
4 nails wrapped in fishing line
Pen wrapped in duct tape
Paper
6 safety pins
4 heavy duty sewing needles
2 bobbins wound with braided fishing line
Portable Aqua (water purification tablets)
6 fishing hooks
6 small lead sinkers
2 1 gallon zip lock bags
50 ft paracord
1.5 ft of surgical tubing
First aid kit
Fire kit
1 Swiss Tech drinking bottle (32 oz)
2 hydration packs (one 2 liter, one 3 liter)
Appropriate clothing
Rain suits
4 protein bars
Picnic lunch
Camera
Cell phone

Sounds like a lot, but fits nicely in our Camelback Packs.

Any time I'm being droped off on an island I make sure I have my sleeping bag and tarp with me.

[crashdive123]

Good point. Will probably add wool blanket (weather's pretty mild).

[red lake]

ALWAYS CARRY ENOUGH WATER, ESPECIALLY IN WINTER

4 quarts per day minimum, 6+ with arctic or mountaineering

Good grief you must be a camel. I suggest buying a filter for areas there is water. areas there is not look for alternative such as melting snow in a ziploc bag inside your coat or in a pot over a fire. It is way lighter than carrying 6 gk of water.

[MCBushbaby]

Rather than stopping every couple hours to melt enough snow to refill your single 2L reservoir (ETA - >1hr), it's better to carry two 2L reservoirs and two 1L water bottles and refill at camp when you are settled. It also allows you to forgo filters, stoves, fuel, etc. while dayhiking. Hydration has a lot to do with moderating your body temp in winter. Drinking 32oz before bed keeps you warmer than without. Really amazing stuff, water

[Gray Wolf]

On New Years Day my wife and I are being dropped off on a barrier island...

I'd like to get together and do a 1 or 2 day outing with you and yours with me and mine. I think we all would have a good time.

[crashdive123]

I'd like to get together and do a 1 or 2 day outing with you and yours with me and mine. I think we all would have a good time.

Agreed. Still working on TDW. While she enjoys going out for some strolls in the woods, haven't been able to get her camping lately. She's softening a bit though.

[chiye tanka]

GW and Crash, if it's not a private trip, count me and mine in. We've both been itchen to get out.

[crashdive123]

Sarge - Move to Survival Kits & Survival Products

[skunkkiller]

nice kit but i didn't see any fishing kit.I do like the vest .

[klkak]

nice kit but i didn't see any fishing kit.I do like the vest .

My kit is designed around what I feel is most important to me in my environment.

Fire
Shelter
Water
First aid
Signaling
Protection

Food only becomes an issue for me after 3 or 4 days. In which case I have the firearm and the ability to snare.

[Nativedude]

Here is what is in one of my BOB's:
http://i238.photobucket.com/albums/ff58/Nativedude1/jpeg_BOB_bag05_jpg.jpg

[Austin Barlow]

Hey all,
I tried to get through all 38 pages, I didn't want to repost any information, but such a thing would take me more hours than i have to spare. I'll be posting images and information on my survival tin and kit in the near future, but for now I thought i'd share a juicy improvement in the candle department. A lot of people seem to like tea candles and the like, and I think they're great, but they aren't wind proof and they aren't compact. I recommend trick birthday candles. They relight when you blow them out and can really only be extinguished by two very moist fingers. One will burn for 8-10 minutes.:eek: very nice!

[SARKY]

If we're talking BOB or 72 hr kits, you might want to peruse here (http://wilderness-survival.net/forums/showthread.php?t=5067). The guy on the zombiehunters forum seems to have his act together (pictures as well, so you get an idea of size and scope)

I've been to that forum, this guy does have a lot going for him ....But I have many questions which he hasn't responded to. I also have a lot of problems with the gear he has and how he presents it. 1: most of he gear is high end, how many of us can afford all that high end stuff? second he doesn't seem to think that anything else will do. I would love to be able to afford some of the goodies he has. I point of fact my pack is a Kifaru (Navigator, slightly larger than his and a front panel acess as opposed to top load) He also says that his BOB is 38 lbs fully loaded in winter configuration ( with a 12 lb wood stove?) I doubt it! My kit is 40 lbs without water and can carry up to 10 liters in my kit or about 24 more lbs totaling 64 lbs!
Lessons learned from Katrina et all.... A 72 hour kit ain't gonna cut it!
With just a few extras it is very easy to extend you kit to a week or better.
My kit totals a little over 5000 cubic inches, you my think this is too large, but I live in earthquake country and so I have a full set of clothes in my kit including boots. Just in case I have to get out of my house in the middle of the night in nothing but my tidy whities.

[LostOutrider]

Drinking 32oz before bed keeps you warmer than without.

Except for when I have to snug out of my sleeping bag at 3 a.m. to to pee. Little known fact, but 100% of my body heat escapes through the fly on my long johns between the hours of midnight and 5 a.m.

Getting older isn't fun.

[Austin Barlow]

Hey all,

Let me start my post of by saying that I am not a fan of the square Altoids tin. First off, I find it difficult to put a lot of my naturally curved things into it and more importantly it isn't water proof. While this can be fixed by a layer of electrical tape, once that's off you'd better hope you don't have to worry about getting soaking wet. My best friend had the misfortune of everything in his tin getting ruined when he traveled through a swampy area in Costa Rica. So about 6 months ago I thought I'd give the seemingly smaller Altoids sours tin a try. I was able to fit everything from my old tin and then some into it and even without electrical tape the container remained water proof.

In this post I'm going to show you guys both my wallet which contains some very valuable survival tools and my tin.

First my wallet:
It's a SwissGear Leather Wallet, it works wonders for my set up. (see image wallet.jpg)

Inside I have the Tool Logic Survival Card (see image survivalcard.jpg) which features:
-An emergency whistle (which i can access simply by opening my wallet and blowing on it.
-a toothpick (it's like a small shank, very sharp)
-tweezers
-a small magnifying lens
-a button compass (you can remove it from the card by unscrewing the attached area)
-a knife with a serrated edge (It's quite nice)
-and a metal match (it's just like the Light My Fire fire starter, and is also removable)

I also have the Victorinox Swiss Card Lite (victorinox.jpg) which features:
-a pen
-tweezers (redundant, I know)
-a pin
-scissors
-4 different types of screwdrivers
-a magnifying lens (slightly larger than the Survival Card's)
-a red LED light (you are able to replace the battery)
-a straight edge knife (this thing is sharp and you can draw it with a flick of your thumb the way it's positioned)
-and a ruler on the side

My last wallet survival tool (excluding the obvious cash and cards) is a credit card sized fresnel lens which is pretty self explanatory.

See my next post for information on the Altoids tin and its contents.

[Austin Barlow]

The first image is a view of both sides of my empty Altoids tin. I used a hot glue gun and half a glue stick to create rings along the bottom of the tin so that I could melt it into an adhesive if needed and also to create non-slip barrier for when I place it on uneven surfaces.

The second image shows the contents of my tin. It looks like a lot, but I made sure to go for quality over quantity. I have confidence that if I have this tin, my wallet (and preferably my cell phone), I could survive quite a few ordeals (keep a level head about this, there are plenty of disasters where not even the best BoB will save you).

The tin includes:
-Wire Saw
-A packet of salt (salt is vital to one's survival)
-2 Water Purification tablets (good for one liter each)
-5 yards of floss (yes that round looking thing to the right of the purification tablets is all floss. Can be used for anything from sewing to lashing)
-a P-38 can opener (the survivalist prepares for anything and everything possible, including finding a can of tuna in the woods)
-2 straight razor blades
-A fishing kit (contains 2 small snap swivels and 2 medium snap swivels, 2 small hooks, two medium hooks, 2 clothes pins, 1 small weight and a very small glow stick)
-6 feet of stainless steel utility wire
-a 50' spool of 10.5 lb nylon test line that can double as thread and fishing line
-a condom wrapped in 4 twisty ties (to take up less space and combine with the sandwich baggie for a solar still)
-3' of duct tape
-A spark-lite fire starter (I swapped it in for 4 strike anywhere matches that were in my old kit. This is a godsend)
-1 metal/wood saw
-1 wood saw
-2 sandwich baggies
-2 pieces of tinder quik
-a button compass
-a trick relighting birthday candle (I highly recommend one)
-a small piece of tinder fungus (hey I had the tinder fungus and I had some room, why not?)
-20 feet of high strength (20 lb test) sewing thread, and then your basic hotel free sewing kit
-2 immodium pills
-2 aleve pills
-2 sets of 3' of brass wire
-2 small fishing weights
-a large heavy dude needle
-a small piece of flint (took it off the bottom of my extra orange matchbox)
-7 butterfly closures
-1 packet of neosporin
-5 strike anywhere matches
-a striker
-and cotton to fill all the tiny nooks and crannys that were left

Lastly, I have a photo of the finished tin, just to show that all that really can fit into it. I wrapped the tin with 3 feet of electrical tape, which can be used for lashing or a tournequette if you're really desperate.

Let me know if you guys have any questions or comments,
I'd be glad to get some feedback. :)

[klkak]

So how do you hold on to those itty-bitty saw blades?