WANTED: The "PERFECT" Survival Vest.....????

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11-13-2009, 10:01 AM
Sourdough

WANTED: The "PERFECT" Survival Vest.....????

The pockets on "Tactical" Para-military vests stick out too far, are the wrong shape, and don't close securely. Over-all I like the Filson Model #32 "Original hunting vest" as far as number of pockets, secure flaps, pocket shape, pocket location. however it is just plain uncomfortable, it hangs funny, as if it was designed for really fat hunters, with massive bellies. Well I guess they know their market. I am willing to pay up to $250.00 for the perfect vest. Ideas....???:)
11-13-2009, 10:07 AM
Ken

There is no perfect vest, Hope. Everytime I've thought I've found it, I thought of about 100 changes that would make it better. You could always take out a mortgage on the cabin and have one custom made. :innocent:
11-13-2009, 10:09 AM
Ken

I've found some decent designs here:

http://www.basspro.com/webapp/wcs/st...8000_175000000
11-13-2009, 10:10 AM
owl_girl

cant you just fix the pockets yourself?
11-13-2009, 10:13 AM
BENESSE

Check these guys out. My brother has ordered tons from them:

http://www.lapolicegear.com/
11-13-2009, 10:21 AM
Sourdough

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ken

There is no perfect vest, Hope. You could always take out a mortgage on the cabin and have one custom made. :innocent:

Yes, that is my plan. To take the Filson #32 vest and have it modified to fit. But I wanted to see what else people like. Kevin is going to have one custom made, I might get on board with that project. The "Fishing Vest" have pockets that stick out too far. For me the back pockets can stick out 2" however the front pockets can not stick out more than 1" to maximum of 1 1/2" and there can be NO side pockets to restrict arm movement.
11-13-2009, 10:29 AM
Ken

So many different types of things to carry.....

There's the absolute necessities that pack small - firestarter, compass, mirror, whistle, etc.

Then there's the more bulky water purification - from straws to purifiers - never mind the water. You've said before that potable water isn't a concern where you are, but...........

Add in some rations, the binoculars, and maybe a cell phone or GPS, and you're gonna' be looking at some bulky pockets.

What are you planning on carrying? Other than your firearms, of course. :innocent:
11-13-2009, 10:33 AM
Icemancometh

Have you checked out a 5.11 Tactical Vest? Has numerous pockets, inside and out. 2-30 round mag pouches, hidden pistol slot on the inside. The pouches don't seem to stick out far at all.I like mine, sturdy and well made.
11-13-2009, 10:37 AM
Pal334

Now, I will sit back and watch. If Sourdough comes up with "THE"vest, I want to invest . It seems like no matter what I get, there is at least that "one more" change
11-13-2009, 10:59 AM
Sourdough

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ken

What are you planning on carrying? Other than your firearms, of course. :innocent:

For me things in the survival vest would be sealed so as to be waterproof, and never used accept in an emergency. I envision small waterproof inserts the size of a sandwich (No thicker) containing first-aid stuff, another packet for a space blanket, etc.. My need is daily, and I don't want to be removing the contents of the pockets to dry everything after a hike in the rain. I want to "KNOW" that the contents are sealed, and just hang to the vest to dry.

The "Man'Bag" thing does not work on a snow machine, or a D-8 Cat Dozer, or swinging a chainsaw with a 48" bar. I want something that does NOT impede movement, and is worn all the time, not just on a 2 hour weekly trail walk.
11-13-2009, 11:02 AM
Sourdough

Quote:

Originally Posted by Icemancometh

Have you checked out a 5.11 Tactical Vest? Has numerous pockets, inside and out. 2-30 round mag pouches, hidden pistol slot on the inside. The pouches don't seem to stick out far at all.I like mine, sturdy and well made.

What part of the original post did you miss.....? Tactical vest are fine for tactical tools.
11-13-2009, 11:07 AM
Ken

http://shop.tacticalthings.com/images/Mesh-Vest.jpg ?
11-13-2009, 11:09 AM
2dumb2kwit

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ken

http://shop.tacticalthings.com/images/Mesh-Vest.jpg ?

That tan on looks like the one I got from wal-mart,on clearance for $17.97!
11-13-2009, 11:15 AM
pocomoonskyeyes

Well Sourdough, the best vest I have been able to find is the Scott e vest. It doesn't even look like a fishing vest, but has tons of pockets. This is the website, look around as they have jackets and vests that may "fill the bill" for you. They even accept some input in making their vests better or more use oriented modifications.
http://www.scottevest.com/
11-13-2009, 11:27 AM
Icemancometh

Quote:

Originally Posted by Sourdough

What part of the original post did you miss.....? Tactical vest are fine for tactical tools.

I re-read the OP and I didn't miss a thing. Just because it is called "tactical" doesn't mean it has to filled with such. Pockets on the 5.11 are not thick. The mag pouches as I called them are no thicker than a sandwich.
11-13-2009, 11:32 AM
Pal334

I googled the vest you mentioned. It does look good. But I think I see your issues with it. Just a couple questions. Is one of your problems with it, the length? What would the length be that you are looking for? Like a waist length etc.How about the fit? You mentioned beer bellies (as I suck mine in :). Do you want it more form fitting? I am asking, because you will obviously use a vest such as this more often than I would, and I want to learn from your experience. Unless I am way off mark, maybe a good "sewer" could make some of the changes you like. Although, come to think of it, they may be few and far between out your way.
11-13-2009, 11:44 AM
SARKY

Check out the CamelBak vest, has a bladder built in and you can put pouches, holster where ever you want. It fits me lke a glove and i'm 5'11' and 170 lbs.
11-13-2009, 11:47 AM
aflineman

I wear one of these every day in the winter. I really like it. It is a Berber lined vest with many pockets inside.
http://www.duluthtrading.com/search/...cessor=content

This vest has always intrigued me. I like the load bearing belt inside.
http://www.duluthtrading.com/search/...lts/71007.aspx

These Cruiser vests are OK, but I prefer a Surveyor's vest (I use one for hunting and hopefully soon for work). I think they may be to bulky for what you want though.
http://www.benmeadows.com/search/vest/8984/

If you want one custom made, I would talk to Tactical Tailor first. US made, and they have worked with me on a couple of custom projects. This was with Logan (the original owner) though. Since he was killed in a crash last year, I don't know if the company still does custom stuff.
http://www.tacticaltailor.com/index.aspx
11-13-2009, 12:07 PM
Sourdough

Quote:

Originally Posted by Pal334

I googled the vest you mentioned. It does look good. But I think I see your issues with it. Just a couple questions. Is one of your problems with it, the length? What would the length be that you are looking for? Like a waist length etc.How about the fit? You mentioned beer bellies (as I suck mine in :). Do you want it more form fitting? I am asking, because you will obviously use a vest such as this more often than I would, and I want to learn from your experience. Unless I am way off mark, maybe a good "sewer" could make some of the changes you like. Although, come to think of it, they may be few and far between out your way.

The thing I like best about the Filson #32 is the back of the vest, and that the pockets are NOT Velcro closure, but button down. Note also that the pockets when closed do not have a gap where small things cold fall out. Waist length is good for sitting on machinery. Yes, more form fitting, but not tight, but a straight hanging garment. The best feature of the tactical vests, is that they are so adjustable for fit. I am hoping Kevin can jump into this conversation. Pal, see if you can post a photo of the Back of the Filson #32 Thanks. I like the trimness of the Travel Vest that Poco suggested, however the travel vests that I have are made of light weight cotton, which is nice for travel, but would not hold up like heavy waxed Tin cloth. It is most important that the front pockets not restrict arm movements. My best vest so far is a Filson Tin Cruiser "COAT" that I cut the sleeves off of. Like Ken, I have about 30 vests, some good, some suck, none perfect.
11-13-2009, 12:09 PM
Old GI

Quote:

Originally Posted by Sourdough

The pockets on "Tactical" Para-military vests stick out too far, are the wrong shape, and don't close securely. Over-all I like the Filson Model #32 "Original hunting vest" as far as number of pockets, secure flaps, pocket shape, pocket location. however it is just plain uncomfortable, it hangs funny, as if it was designed for really fat hunters, with massive bellies. Well I guess they know their market. I am willing to pay up to $250.00 for the perfect vest. Ideas....???:)

Hey SD. I'm looking for THE vest as well. But, Full-Figured-Freedom-Fighters need vests, too.
11-13-2009, 12:20 PM
Sourdough

Quote:

Originally Posted by Old GI

Hey SD. I'm looking for THE vest as well. But, Full-Figured-Freedom-Fighters need vests, too.

In fairness to Filson, the Model #32 vest is made to be worn on top of rain gear, and a wool coat, and other foul-weather clothing.
11-13-2009, 01:12 PM
crashdive123

Have you looked at the military style load bearing equipment harness? You can attatch whatever style pouches you like and in a variety of configurations that will not restrict movement. They are nothing like a tactical vest, more like suspenders with a belt.
11-13-2009, 01:31 PM
Sourdough

Quote:

Originally Posted by crashdive123

Have you looked at the military style load bearing equipment harness? You can attach whatever style pouches you like and in a variety of configurations that will not restrict movement. They are nothing like a tactical vest, more like suspenders with a belt.

Part of my problem is: heavy clothing, I wear just a shirt in the summer when it is 78* above here, and six parka's when it is -41* below zero. So as I see it, for me, I want the survival vest to fit over a summer shirt. Then just wear what ever outer clothing as necessary over top of the vest. I do find it interesting that companies have "NOT" brainstormed the market for this survival vest, something between the tactical vest and the travel vest. I want something that can be worn to church or to a restaurant and does not scream "Military" Weekend Warrior.
11-13-2009, 01:48 PM
Pal334

Made me work for this one :)

Here is a view of the back. I think I like it. Perhaps a bit of tweaking by a good "sewer" and would be good to go. There is also a link here for a discussion about the vest. They seem to share your opinion about the oversizing. As the vest is, what other "mods" would you recommend?
I had never thought about this subject before, only used a vest for Tactical occassions (and actually hunting). But your concept of daily wear does make a lot of sense.

Here is that forum site for those interested:

http://images.google.com/imgres?imgu...%3Den%26sa%3DG
11-13-2009, 02:47 PM
Sourdough

Pal, That forum is spooky. Maybe I need to fly down to Seattle for a custom fit.
11-13-2009, 03:23 PM
Rick

Some more ideas

http://www.wilderness-survival.net/f...ght=vest+kllak

and another including the one Klkak wears.

http://www.wilderness-survival.net/f...=survival+vest
11-13-2009, 04:22 PM
Pal334

Quote:

Originally Posted by Sourdough

Pal, That forum is spooky. Maybe I need to fly down to Seattle for a custom fit.

Well,, since you are reluctant to install that outhouse door, maybe their fashion advice will help drawing a lady :)
11-13-2009, 06:56 PM
Sourdough

Klkak, What yo thunk......Did you swing by Mt. View Sports......?
11-15-2009, 08:52 PM
BENESSE

Quote:

Originally Posted by pocomoonskyeyes

... the best vest I have been able to find is the Scott e vest. It doesn't even look like a fishing vest, but has tons of pockets.

Poco, I LOVE this vest!!!!!
Wasn't even aware the company existed, so thank you for bringing it up. It's really hard to find a women's version and men's S or XS just don't cut it.
11-15-2009, 08:55 PM
crashdive123

Quote:

....and men's S or XS just don't cut it.

Ain't that the truth.
11-15-2009, 09:06 PM
pocomoonskyeyes

Quote:

Originally Posted by BENESSE

Poco, I LOVE this vest!!!!!
Wasn't even aware the company existed, so thank you for bringing it up. It's really hard to find a women's version and men's S or XS just don't cut it.

AW Shucks, Tweren't nuthin'.:blushing: I can't really take credit for "finding it" though. A month or two ago I was looking for a "survival vest",and someone posted a link to it. Did you watch the video of all the stuff the guy pulled out of his vest?? I was flabbergasted at the amount of junk he had in there!! And it didn't look all that bulky loaded down either. It could easily replace a day Pack.
11-15-2009, 09:30 PM
BENESSE

Quote:

Originally Posted by pocomoonskyeyes

Did you watch the video of all the stuff the guy pulled out of his vest?? I was flabbergasted at the amount of junk he had in there!! And it didn't look all that bulky loaded down either. It could easily replace a day Pack.

I was mesmerized by the video. Well done, polished.
Since I hate carrying purses and travel a lot, I know this vest will become an indispensable part of my wardrobe.
11-15-2009, 09:36 PM
2dumb2kwit

Quote:

Originally Posted by BENESSE

I was mesmerized by the video. Well done, polished.
Since I hate carrying purses and travel a lot, I know this vest will become an indispensable part of my wardrobe.

Finally!
Someone other than Rick, talking about their wardrobe.:innocent:
11-15-2009, 09:57 PM
aflineman

Quote:

Originally Posted by sjj

I have been very interested in this thread. The right "survival vest" is a topic close to my heart. Sourdough has correctly & specifically identified the need/purpose of his quest - which is paramount to his question. He wants something that he can wear everyday at the homestead working and to the store and church. He needs something that isn't restrictive to arm movement for chopping wood and doesn't scream paramilitary to the public. He wants something that is designed to be worn over a shirt and/or under a jacket. This is a worthy quest and I have studied all the suggestion given throughout this thread, plus done some additional investigation on prospective vests.

I personally believe Sourdough was spot on in his belief that the survival gear in the vest should be individually segmented and waterproofed. This is with the understanding that this gear is NOT used daily; rather, kept on one's person all the time. For me, I would want a combination of completely waterproofed gear in "certain" pockets never to be touched unless needed or inspected - and one or two pockets for everyday use items. In other words, I would not want a vest that has no daily use pockets if the vest is a "daily use" vest as Sourdough desires. It is entirely possible that for these purposes some of the permanent flat packaged gear could be best retained in "interior" vest pockets as opposed to the outside pockets. All depends on size of pouches, fit of vest, and resulting comfort.

For me, I would first clearly identify what survival gear I intend to carry and segment it into categories and container size desired before choosing the perfect vest. I would rather fit the vest to what I want to carry as opposed to fitting my gear to a vest. I would be interested in what "survival gear" Sourdough has in mind since I have gathered he is not a big fan of "survival gadgets" :)

I am searching for a similar vest for similar purposes - except I wouldn't be wearing it to work. For me, durability is critical - but so is weight, particularly if this vest is worn under a jacket. The "tin" waxed cotton stuff is very stiff and gets stiffer when it gets cold. It does break in over time - but is primarily designed to go "over" other gear. This is why the cut of the gear is large. I would not consider the heavy duty cotton waxed tin vest suitable to be used as an underneath layering. With this in mind, I am currently thinking along the lines of Duluth's new Force Nine line of work cloths which is reportedly light, warm, designed for layering - yet with a strong outer nylon shell for durability - and lots of inside pockets. I am providing a link to the vest below.

http://www.duluthtrading.com/store/c...ture=product_4

I like the Force Nine, but went with the firehose Berber lined vest due to the weather here. I can wear it longer in the year, and it works well under a rain jacket.
11-16-2009, 12:43 PM
dscrick

1 Attachment(s)

My preference

Sourdough,

I'm not sure how you feel about Camelbaks/hydration systems, but I selected the Camelbak Delta 5 vests. I've purchased two on Ebay. They have a 3 liter hydration bladder in them, but no pockets. Just Molle webbing all around, so you can pick up any combination of pouches you like and place them on the vest wherever you want them front or back. They come in several colors and are adjustable on the sides for fit over whatever clothing you wear. I love mine
11-17-2009, 01:57 AM
aflineman

Quote:

Originally Posted by sjj

aflineman,

Is this the vest you went for: http://www.duluthtrading.com/store/c...ture=product_1

I see you are correct, that they have that vest rated for 10 - 25 degrees with two outside pockets and 5 smaller inside pockets - as opposed to the Force Nine rated at 15 - 30 degrees with a total of 16 pockets of which I can see about 5 are on the outside.

I certainly respect that you chose the warmer vest and certainly more traditional (I like fire-hose material stuff). Have you by chance tried on or seen the Force Nine? I ask this because I am very close to ordering one. I also have a real problem with sizing. I most always get an XXL in shirt and jacket for the shoulders, but have found that XXL in vest leaves too much material around the belly. If a vest has LARGE arm holes I am usually more comfortable with an XL. From the picture of the Force Nine I'm somewhat afraid that the arm holes are not large enough. Any info appreciated and welcome. Thanks.

UPDATE: Wow - I see the firehose vest is on sale for $45. Very enticing.. I'm hard pressed to believe that a Fison $175 waxed cotton vest is that much better.

Sjj,
I normally wear a large shirt and the large firehose vest fits me well. That is the size that I probably get when/if it wears out and I get the Force Nine. Though, if I was to pack it full of stuff, I might conciser an XL, just so the pockets on the inside have somewhere to expand.

Try this offer code with your order. Should get you 20% off anything over $75. Only good until tomorrow (Tuesday). T29C112BGMMZ
11-17-2009, 11:37 AM
aflineman

Quote:

Originally Posted by sjj

Aflineman,

I placed my order at 11:15 p.m. I am thankful and pleased that the code you gave - got me $20 off the total price. There is absolutely no doubt you saved me $20. Ordered the Loden (green/black) in 2XL and will report back to the group on fit/finish/quality and suitability for survival vest.

No problem. I noticed the code in my email and figured you (or someone else here) could use it.
11-18-2009, 02:30 AM
Metamorphasis

On the Filson website I happened accross this one I kinda like. What do you think?

http://www.filson.com/product/index....entPage=family
11-18-2009, 06:34 AM
Pal334

This is an interesting thread. Varying needs, and nothing seems "quite right". And I am picking up alot of good ideas.
Before I went to the sandbox the first time, I was just not satisfied with the covers / carriers available for our body armor. I sat down with with an old fashioned shoe repairman (retired Navy) and we tossed my ideas around and using his expertise with sewing and materials we came up with a design and material (a sort of canvas) that was to my satisfaction. Due to his generosity it was relatively inexpensive (under $100). My point being, maybe it would be a good idea to get the vest that is closest to ones needs and then sit down with a good crafts person and spend the time modifying it. I know it could be expensive, but for the use that has been put forward in this thread, It would seem to be a worth while investment.
11-18-2009, 07:51 AM
crashdive123

Hey Metamorphasis - how about making your way to the Introduction section and tell us a bit about yourself. Thanks. http://www.wilderness-survival.net/f...splay.php?f=14

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