using a bug out bag

what is a bug out bag? After a natural disaster, you often hear people talking about having a “bug out bag”, but what is it and why do you need one? Having a bug out bag in our home or vehicle could mean the difference between life and death during an emergency.

A bug out bag is a portable emergency kit that’s designed to last you for three days. These are also referred to as 72 hour emergency kits. They need to be portable and have all the things you need to survive during a disaster.

What should your bug out bag contain? What you actually pack in your survival kit will have to do with your own needs as well as where you live. For example, if you live in area where hurricanes are common, you’ll need supplies related to surviving a hurricane.

But if you’re in an area that is more likely to be dry, you’ll want to have a different set of items. In general, though, you’ll want to have a first aid kit, a three day supply of food that doesn’t require real cooking, and a change of clothing.

It’s also a good idea to have a system for shelter, a bedroll, light sources, and tools to help you start a fire, stay dry and warm. It’s also important to have supplies for any personal needs. For example if you have small children, you may need diapers and baby wipes, toys to keep kids occupied, and children’s medications.

When would you use a bug out bag? There are many situations that might warrant the use of an emergency kit. For example, you might have a gas leak in your home or a fire requiring you to leave it. You could also need to evacuate due to flooding or another natural disaster.

And, unfortunately, it’s important to plan for instances such as terrorist attacks, nuclear disasters, or chemical spills that may require you to leave your home and find alternate shelter. Your kit won’t be designed to take care of long-term changes, but it will give you time to seek something more permanent if needed.

A bug out bag needs to be easy to grab and go. Most people purchase a back pack for their bug out bag because it’s easy to carry and allows you to have your hands free. Even small children can carry their own bug out bag that has essentials.

When you have a 72 hour emergency kit, you’ll be able to have peace of mind knowing you’re better prepared for a disaster. Having a bug out bag for each member of your family will protect you during an emergency that requires evacuation.

bug out bag checklist When you want to be prepared for an emergency, it helps to have a bug out bag checklist. A bug out bag is a kit designed to help you evacuate and survive for at least three days. This can be the difference between survival and certain death. But it only works if you have the items you need.

The following items are recommended for a bug out bag to take care of your survival needs:

* Sturdy backpack to hold items * Sleeping bag * Plastic sheet * Tent or tarp for shelter * First aid kit - including nonprescription and prescription medications (a three day supply) * Children’s medications (if applicable) * Feminine hygiene items (if applicable) * Baby wipes and diapers (if applicable, though baby wipes are useful for cleaning up for all ages) * Change of clothing - including pants, a short sleeve shirt, a long sleeve shirt, socks, underwear, a jacket, work gloves * Rain coat or poncho * Emergency blanket * Flashlights * Camping lantern * Batteries * Candles * Water-proof matches * Flares * Three day supply of food – such as granola bars, protein bars, trail mix, dried fruit, canned tuna, canned chicken, Vienna sausages, beef jerky, juice, candy, Meals Ready to Eat * Three day supply of water - about four liters per person * Can opener * Utensils for eating * Shovel * Axe * Knife * Rope * Duct tape * Solar powered radio (with back up batteries) * Toilet paper * Hand sanitizer * Soap * Shampoo * Dish soap

* Entertainment items – such as a deck of cards, knitting supplies, a book to read, paper, pen * Personal documents – including legal documents, insurance policies, birth certificates, car titles, copies of prescriptions, etc. * Cash – at least enough for three nights in a hotel * Pet items – including food, water, cat litter, leash, bedding * Other items as needed for children such as formula, pacifiers, bottles, etc.

Now that you’ve looked at this bug out bag checklist, you may be feeling a little overwhelmed. But it’s important to know that you don’t have to purchase all of this at once. If you can add a few items each week or month, you’ll eventually collect all you need.

When it comes to food, make sure you create a menu plan so that you know what you’ll eat each day. And every six months you’ll want to check expiration dates and replace food that’s near the end of its shelf life.

You’ll need to have a bug out bag for each member of your family. Even children are capable of carrying their own packs with some essentials. This helps them to feel more self-reliant and confident during an emergency.

Once you’ve collected these items, you’ll need to keep them in an area where you can easily access them in an emergency. A bug out bag checklist can help you to keep in mind what you have and what you still need to purchase as you prepare for survival needs.

choosing the best bug out bag backpack

When you’re putting together a 72 hour emergency kit, it’s important to choose a high quality bug out bag backpack. You’ll be asking a lot of your backpack to help you survive over a period of days during an evacuation. It’s important to make sure the pack is up to the task.

The first consideration is size. You’ll want a pack that you can realistically carry when it’s full and that has as much storage space as possible. The best backpacks have extra compartments for holding a sleeping bag and smaller pockets for items you need to get to quickly.

It’s also helpful if there are places where you can clip emergency equipment to the outside of the pack. This eliminates the need for you to empty the entire backpack when you need to get to an item.

You’ll also want to make sure you choose a bag that’s lightweight, but sturdy. Getting a backpack that has an interior aluminum frame will guarantee that it will be sturdy and that the weight will be distributed evenly across your body.

A pack that doesn’t seem very heavy at first can seem much heavier after hours of walking. You’ll want to be as comfortable as possible. In addition to a sturdy frame, look for padded shoulder straps that are wide and distribute weight across your shoulders.

It’s also important to have a strap around the waist that can help secure the pack to your body and shift some weight to the lower body. Make sure the straps can comfortably fit around your waist and are adjustable.

Many backpacks are water resistant and come with rain covers to protect them in major wet weather. A rain cover may not seem that essential, but it can protect your valuable survival items and keep you alive.

When it comes to your budget, there’s a wide range of prices for backpacks. You’ll want to purchase the highest quality pack you can afford. If money is tight, it might be necessary to get an economical backpack to start with and then save up for a better one.

Many backpacks have the added feature of being compatible with a hydration system. This feature is incredibly important when you’re working to get enough water during a disaster. This feature can help you to stay hydrated without having to dig out water bottles.

You’ll have a bladder inside the pack that holds water with a long tube that works like a straw with a valve on the end. This allows you to drink water while you continue to walk and have your hands free.

Choosing the best bug out bag backpack is essential to be able to store your important survival items and carry them with you during an evacuation.

collecting bug out bag essentials

When you want to be prepared for an emergency, it’s important to collect bug out bag essentials to keep you safe during an evacuation. A bug out bag is simply a kit that can help you survive for about three days during a disaster.

There are many essential items that you’ll need to put together to create a functional bug out bag. First, you’ll want to have a heavy duty backpack. The best backpacks for bug out bags have metal frames to help the weight be distributed evenly on your body.

This makes it easier for you to carry your kit for long distances if required. These backpacks also have a lot of space where you can store items that you need to have with you in an emergency.

Another essential item includes a first aid kit. You’ll need to have a kit that includes bandages, scissors, external medications, instant cold packs, fever reducers, stomach medicine and antiseptic. You’ll also need to include a three day supply of any prescription medicines you take.

If you have a family with children, you’ll want to have children’s formulas as well. You don’t want your first aid kit to take up all the room in your pack, so make sure you have the essentials in a compact form. You should also include toiletries and hygiene items.

Food is another essential item for your bug out bag. You’ll need a three day supply of food that you can eat without cooking. You may want to add gel fuel for warming up foods such as soups, but that’s not necessary.

Foods good for bug out bags include protein bars, trail mix, Meals Ready to Eat, canned meats, and soups. You may also want to have high sugar items such as hard candies to help you get quick energy. If you have canned foods, make sure you have a manual can opener in your pack.

In addition to food, it’s important to have a three day supply of water. In general you’ll need 4 liters of water per person for three days. It’s best to keep it in smaller containers to distribute the weight.

You’ll also need clothing and bedding to stay warm and dry. It’s a good idea to have a plastic sheet or tarp to protect you from moisture. It’s also a good idea to have items such as a tent or tarp to create shelter if needed.

It’s a good idea to have equipment such as an emergency radio, knife, rope, duct tape, axe, shovel, and pen and paper. These items can be invaluable during a disaster.

Finally, you should make sure you have some cash and copies of important personal documents such as IDs, car titles, home deeds, wills, marriage certificates, and birth certificates. You’ll want to keep documents in a waterproof container to keep them safe from harm.

When you have bug out bag essentials in your home, you can rest assured you’ll be ready for an emergency that requires you to leave your home.

should i purchase a bug out bag kit?

If you’re interested in being able to survive an evacuation, having a bug out bag kit can be very helpful. While some people prefer to collect their own items, a kit can help you to get what you need all at once economically.

Many bug out bag kits actually include first aid kits, food supplies, and other essential

equipment. All the items are packed in a watertight backpack that you can simply grab and go in an emergency.

Some kits are designed for a specific type of emergency. For example, there are kits designed for earthquakes and hurricanes specifically. If you live in an area where these disasters are likely, you can get a bug out back tailored to your needs.

Some kits include protection from the elements, flashlights, heavy duty gloves, glow sticks, a compass, and blankets. This can be the perfect way to get started with your survival equipment. But you’ll find that with any kit you also need to add some of your own items.

For example, a bug out bag kit may include food but you’ll still need to add your water supply. You’ll also need to add your own clothing, prescription medications, and items to help you pass the time. It may also be a good idea to add a sleeping bag.

You’ll also want to add an emergency radio, your personal legal documents that can’t be purchased in a kit. You may also need to add supplies for children such as diapers, formula, comfort items, and toys.

Even though there’s no one kit that can meet all of your needs, purchasing a bug out bag kit is an excellent idea for making sure you have a good basic set of essentials. For many people the idea of gathering many items for a 72 hour emergency kit is overwhelming.

When you purchase a kit, you can get most of the items you need and only have to add a few personal items. It may actually cost you less money to purchase a kit than it would to purchase items individually.

And when you purchase a kit, most items are designed to have a long shelf-life making them a good value. And if you’re more willing to buy a kit than to collect individual items, a kit will get you one step closer to being self-reliant and prepared for an emergency.

In a disaster, you can’t count on anyone else to take care of your basic needs. Having a good basic bug out bag kit can help you to be prepared for a disaster that requires you to leave your home.

a list of items and equipment for bugging out and for holding up in the wilderness

food: MREs; Freeze Dried Food ie Mountain House, Richmoore, ect. 5 DAYS SUPPLY MINIMUM water purification and storage: The Katadyn Pocket Microfilter: The most rugged, longest lasting Microfilter available, backed by a lifetime warranty. The Pocket Microfilter's solid design and construction makes it ideal for continuous use even in the most extreme circumstances. Camelbak Omega Reservoir: Camelbak's mil grade low-profile Omega baffled reservoir is designed with a reduced stack height for confined areas. The OMEGA Water Beast™ Reservoir is the ultimate delivery system for an operator's water supply. The reservoir’s proven durability, OMEGA widemouth opening, and rugged materials ensure reliable water delivery during extreme operational situations. Includes Camelbak's Big Bite Valve and HydroGuard. personal mobility: MYSTERY RANCH PACKS: Crewcab - (Personal Carry) VOLUME: 1900 cu-in (31l)- 5000 cu-in (82l) WEIGHT: 7 lbs 11 oz (3.5kg) (w/ NICE Frame) DIMENSIONS: 31-81"x12"x6" (79-206cm x 53cm x 15cm) INTENDED USE: Load-Hauling, Day Hunts, Backpack Hunts FRAME SYSTEM: NICE Frame System The Crew Cab is a variable capacity pack made up of three separate compartments and multiple components that can be configured to carry loads that vary dramatically in size, shape and weight. The Crew Cab can be collapsed into a compact daypack or expanded for three to four day backpack hunts. The Crew Cab’s integrated expandable platform area is perfect for hauling Mystery Ranch Load Cells, Pelican cases, shed antlers, weed control sprayers, entire antelope, or even multiple elk quarters. When fully compressed, the Crew Cab is a low profile 1900 cu. inches that will not interfere with active motion. Fully expanded, the Crew Cab can reach the equivalent of a 5000 cu. pack. For Backcountry Hunters and anyone looking for a system that can do it all, this is your pack. Long Pocket 400 cu-in (6.6l) ,7 oz (20g) 15.5"x5.5"x4", (39cm x 14cm x 10cm) A detachable pocket with its own frame so that it keeps its shape in any configuration. The Long pocket can be mounted to a pack using any two compression straps. These pockets are great for adding volume to your pack. and / or Tactiplane VOLUME: 6000 cu-in (98l) WEIGHT: 9 lbs 10 oz (4.4kg) DIMENSIONS: 34.5"x16"x14.5" (88cm x 41cm x 37cm) INTENDED USE: Extended Missions FRAME SYSTEM: Guide Frame

Mystery Ranch is proud to announce its winning entry in the SOCOM BALCS competition. Combining our latest fitting and stability technology with the 25 year heritage of the Terraplane internal frame packs, Mystery Ranch introduces the TactiPlane. At 6000 cubic inches, the TactiPlane is designed to function with the maximum size load a soldier can effectively haul. No other internal frame pack adapts to the realities an operator faces when carrying a load like the TactiPlane. With this pack one can carry 50 pounds in total comfort, 70-80 pounds is very reasonable and it will stabilize loads surpassing 100 pounds! NICE Hitchhiker: Add on compartment to the Nice Crew Cab. 1600 cu-in (26l) 2 lbs 1 oz (94g) 18"x11"x5" (46cm x 28cm x 13cm) The Hitchhiker locks onto the COMM 2 with four non-slip AutoLock Quick Release buckles. The Hitchhiker adds 1600 cu-in of extra space, with a 1400 cu-in main compartment and a 200 cu-in top pocket for organization. The Hitchhiker’s 3-zip access is fast and goes deep. fire starting / survival equipment: Wet Fire: (Personal Carry) The perfect supplement to any fire starter, Wet Fire can help you get a blaze going even in a downpour. In fact, the cubes actually burn longer when wet! Wet Fire Tinder is a universal lighting material that is safe, virtually odorless, easy to carry, and reliable in inclement weather. 32 cubes Sabercut Saw: (Personal Carry) The Sabercut is a lightweight, strong, multipurpose, and low profile hand saw that would be perfect for the survivor and easy to use by anyone. The Sabercut is designed to saw through the hardest wood and is so flexible that it will work well in small or confined spaces. Unlike other top quality outdoor saws, the Sabercut has a flexible blade for cutting from a variety of angles and in positions where you have little clearance. The 24-inch blade has self-cleaning, bi-directional cutting teeth. STAK Soldier’s Tactical Advantage Kit: (Personal Carry) The kit contains a one-handed fire starter with all-weather tinder, an unbreakable signal mirror, a high-decibel whistle, snap lights, a compass, a small flashlight with tactical lighting capabilities (IR, red, and green filters) and a knife all in your choice of a crushproof case or aqua bag. *MilPack Gel Fuel; MilPack Gel Fuel is a great fuel for cooking, for your survival stove, as a fire starter or to simply start a campfire. All this utility and it is still safe enough to go on an aircraft! MilPack Gel Fuel was originally designed to provide an efficient source of heat for the foot soldier and had to be safe, odorless, smokeless, non restrictive, economical, non toxic and yet friendly to our environment. With an indefinite shelf life, MilPack Gel Fuel is the perfect survival or recreational gel fuel. (Personal Carry) 20 pkts

The Windmill Delta Storm Lighter 10' x 10' ripstop gromitted waterproof nylon tarp. Survival / Tactical Knives and other equipment: Special Forces Handbook Special Forces Survival Guide: Wilderness Survival Skills from the World's Most Elite Military Units [Paperback] U.S. Army Ranger Handbook Hawke's Special Forces Survival Handbook: The Portable Guide to Getting Out Alive Mykel Hawke's Green Beret Survival Manual: Essential Strategies For: Shelter and Water, Food and Fire, Tools and Medicine, Navigation and Signaling, Survival Psychology and Getting Out Alive! Marine Heat by TOPS Knives: O/A Length:11" ,Blade Length:6 1/2", Cutting Edge: 5 1/2",Thickness:1/4",Steel:1095 High Carbon Alloy. Tom Brown Tracker #2 by TOPS Knives: Blade Length: 3 1/2",O/A Length: 9 1/2",Draw Knife: 2" Blade Height: 2",Blade Thickness: 3/16",Blade Steel: 1095 High Carbon Alloy RC-58 THE SNEAKY PETE By TOPS Knives: Blade Length: 3 5/8", Cutting Edge: 3 1/2", O/A Length: 8", Thickness: 1/8", Steel:154 CM RC 58-60,Color: Tactical Black Leatherman® Super Tool 300 12 - 1.5 meter pieces of.24 ga stainless steel wire with loop on 1 end. BETADINE SOLUTION, 1/2 OZ BOTTLE x8 Cane Cutter I folding knife Straight Razor: is constructed with a 2 5/8” stainless steel razor blade with etch. The handle is stainless steel and perfect for engraving. 5 7/8” overall. 4 FULL BARS OF IVORY SOAP, one of them grated and bagged. Personal Antimicrobial (P.A.W.S) Towelettes 100 individually wrapped towelettes for hand sanitizing. The towelettes kill 99.99% of all germs on contact, sanitizing hands fast and effectively, without water. GATCO® Knife Sharpening Systems Entrenching Tool Gransfors Mini Belt Hatchet (Personal Carry) "It's small, light and perfectly balanced. It can sharpen a pencil, slice a tomato paper thin, and shave the print right off this page. It will frizz sticks for tinder; cut fine kindling and split small logs. It will fillet a fish, skin a moose, tenderize a steak, turn your pancakes, spread jam and

peanut butter; pound tent stakes and chop vegetables. And it will ride as lightly on your hip as the average hunting knife." Para Cord 550 (Olive Drab, 100 ft) (Personal Carry) GI Government Issued style. Black - Metal lensatic compass; comes in metal case. Floating luminous dial. Adjustable luminous marching line. Thumb hold and magnifying viewer. Sighting hairline. Directions on how to use a lensatic compass included. Directions include how to find a real position on map by compass, map orientation by compass, taking a/an azimuth reading, and walking in darkness and dense fog and through rough terrain. Olive Drab - Government Issued Special Lensatic Tritium Compass - USA Made 3HJP; Contains less than 27MCI (1gbq) of Tritium (3H). USA made. Glow in the dark compass. Built to the demanding specifications of U.S. fighting forces. Battle tested - shock, water, sand proof and functional from -50 Fahrenheit to +150 Fahrenheit. Five tritium micro lights allow for navigation in low-light conditions. Equipped with a magnifying lens, sight wire, and dial graduations in both degrees and mils to ensure accurate readings. Copper induction dampening system slows the rotation of the magnet without the use of liquids. Bushbuddy Ultra Wood Stove: the Bushbuddy Ultra is an environmentally-sensitive (nonscarring), high performance wood fire cook stove. Two parts to the stove - the firebox and the pot holder - nest for clean, efficient, compact storage. The Bushbuddy Ultra's key feature is its double wall firebox. Primary air is drawn into the Bushbuddy Ultra's lower intake ports, where it is preheated within the confines of a double wall. That preheated air is then delivered to the combustion chamber (firebox), resulting in a far more efficient burn. From a performance standpoint, this means that (1) fuel is burned more completely to ash and (2) fuel is burned faster. Bottom line: The Bushbuddy Ultra delivers the most fuel-efficient compact woodstove design available. Environmentally sensitive design neither flame, coals, nor ash scar the ground. Wood is burned completely to ash during combustion, and ash is contained in the firebox, allowing it to be buried or dispersed appropriately. Backpacking Light Firelite 900-SUL Titanium Cookpot: (Personal Carry) · Dimensions (height x dia.): 4.00 in. x 4.375 in. (10.16 cm x 11.11 cm) · Total Weight: 3.09 oz (87.56 g) · Pot Weight: 2.21 oz (62.71 g) · Lid Weight: .88 oz (24.85 g) lightweight campfire grill steel Spork : Cutlery Stainless Snow Peak: Trek Titanium Plate This lightweight titanium plate weighs just 2 oz. and is very strong Stainless Steel or Titanium Bowl; Titanium Cup 600: by Montbell

X2 – Sure Fire Saint LED Headlamp: Output / Runtime High Setting 100 .0 lumens / 6.0 hours Low Setting 1 .0 lumens / 144.0 hours Weight w/Batteries 9 .4 ounces Batteries 3, 2 123A (included) AA alkaline (optional; not included) Sure Fire - M3LT-S Combat Light Extended-Range Dual-Output LED with strobe Max Output 400 .0 lumens Low Output / Runtime 70 .0 lumens / 8.5 hours Tactical Runtime* 1 .7 hours Length 8 .7 inches Bezel Diameter 2 .5 inches Weight w/Batteries 10 .9 ounces Batteries 3 123A (included) $575.00 very expensive, worth every penny Clothing: 5.11 Tactical® Mens Tactical Cotton Pants; Made of tough, 8.5-oz. 100% cotton canvas that becomes increasingly more comfortable over time. X 4 5.11 Tactical® Men's Long-Sleeve Tactical Cotton Shirt; Durable cotton canvas shirt is constructed with triple needle stitching, melamine buttons, and double layered material in high stress areas. Hidden chest pocket provide for the capacity to carry important documents and light accessories - such as knives, flashlights, and other small weapons. X4 PROFORCE Shemagh X2 Warwear® Tactical Knit Cap X2 Peruvian poncho for men, outerwear made of alpaca wool ALPACA SURVIVAL SOCKS: The Survival Sock is a terrycloth-lined, lightweight boot sock with reinforced foot arch band as well as a ribbed knit ankle support to ensure a proper fit. X7 Government Type Black Wool Commando Sweater G.I. Style O.D. Rip-Stop Nylon Poncho Black Collapsible Tactical Goggles X2 Leather Military Shooters Gloves Olive Drab U.S. 70% Virgin Wool Blanket 5.11 Tactical ATAC Gloves 5.11 Tactical Covert Fleece Jacket 4811 5.11 Tactical Tac Dry Rain Shell 48098 Russell Moccasin Grand Slam Sheep Hunter: For Extreme Conditions: sturdier and more rigid than any other Russell boot...yet comfortable to wear. A new 10” boot featuring leather lined uppers, reinforced ankle support, heel counters, triple vamp construction, waterproofed Weather Tuff leather, back pull loop, cushion collar, 9 oz. bullhide hand molded wrap around outer sole, sturdy oak leather midsole and heavy duty Vibram Montagna sole. Tougher, more

rigid, less flexible than any boot we have ever made...yet still comfortable to wear. It’s as close to a technical climbing boot as an all leather boot can be. Made to measure only. Mountain Safari "PH": The Mountain Safari "PH" was inspired by South African PH, Hans "Scruff" Vermaak of Coenraad Vermaak Safaris. The Russell Safari "PH", while the ideal boot in the vast majority of African hunting venues, was changed slightly, ideally suiting it for tougher going on steep rocky hillsides. made a bit heavier... a bit tougher... with a more aggressive sole for mountainous conditions. WEAPONS FOR HUNTING AND PROTECTION: 500 Rounds of .308 Win Ammo 200 Rounds of 3" mag 12 ga size 4 shot 200 Rounds of 3” mag 12 ga 00 buck 200 Rounds of 3” .41 mag The McMillan M3A: Designed for shooting with a scope as well as iron sights. The adjustable cheekpiece on the McMillan M3A stock positions the head for an optimum cheek weld. An optional full length upper handguard tactical rail is available for the mounting of night vision optics, forward mounted scopes, and other accessories. This transforms the M3A into an accurate, medium range tactical rifle with the benefits of magazine fed semi-auto .308 Win firepower. (1) 18" Barrel with muzzle brake. (2) The McMillan M3A stock is CNC-machine inletted for a precision fit. The action is glass bedded by hand. (3) Adjustable cheekpiece positions the head for an optimum cheek weld when using a scope. (4) Butt spacer system allows you to change the length of pull for a perfect fit. (5) Front and rear QD swivels come standard. (6) An optional full length upper handguard tactical rail allows the optics to be either forward or rear mounted. (7) purchase 5 magazines. Mossberg® 590A1: Specifications that include a heavy-walled parkerized barrel, metal trigger guard assembly, metal safety button, and an upgraded magazine tube that can easily be opened for cleaning and is readily adaptable for a magazine extension. The receiver-mounted safety is convenient for right or lefthanded shooters; simply push the button forward and you’re ready to fire. In addition, every Mossberg Special Purpose shotgun features a host of proven Mossberg features like an anti-jam elevator, dual extractors for reliable feeding, and positive shot shell extraction and ejection. Variety and adaptability are hallmarks of the 590A1 platform, with tactical configurations offered to suit any need. Stock choices include a 6-position adjustable tactical stock, pistol-grip Cruiser® models, standard full-size polymer stock, or a polymer Speedfeed® model that holds four additional shells in the stock for quick and easy reloading. Every 590A1 Special Purpose model features a drilled and tapped receiver, factory-ready for Picatinny rail, scope base or optics installation. Barrels lengths include 18-1/2" (with 5+1 magazine capacity) or 20" (with 8+1 magazine capacity), all with cylinder bore. Depending on the model, you'll find a choice of 3-Dot, Ghost Ring™, or basic front bead sights. The deluxe-equipped 590A1™ SPX™ model comes fully loaded out of the box with the features you want: a factory-mounted

Picatinny rail, LPA/M16-Style Ghost Ring combination sight set, and removable M9 bayonet/scabbard combination. Other 590A1 versions include the 590A1 Mariner® model with Marinecote™-finished barrel and receiver for added corrosion resistance for marine applications, extreme wet weather or humid environments and a reduced (13") length-of-pull 590A1™ Compact model perfect for smaller stature shooters. TRACKER MODEL 425 .41 MAG. REVOLVERS WITH RIBBER GRIPS: these rugged, durable revolvers also make a practical choice for backpacks and tackle boxes, especially where there are bears and other predators around. Extremely comfortable to fire and easy to control - the Tracker Series continues to grow in popularity thanks to its high level of accuracy, rock-solid performance and near-indestructible construction. (Personal Carry) Wiggy’s Sleeping Bag Antarctic Product #: 6.3.1 A -60 degree bag. I believe the Antarctic model is the only -60 degree bag made in the world. The loft averages 10 inches, and the weight for a regular length, wide body model is 6.5 pounds. The long wide body weighs 7 pounds. Adding the Flexible Temperature Range Sleep System (FTRSS) brings the temperature range down to -80. Sizes Available: Regular/Wide Body (80" x 34") X-Long/Wide Body (90" x 34") Mountaineering Closed-cell foam Sleeping Pad In a separate bag or lite day pack Special Operations Forces Medical Handbook: RMI Item Number: 1984 Remote Medical International: Adventure Medical Kits Expedition: RMI Item Number: 1753 KIT CONTENTS: MEDICAL INFORMATION "Comprehensive Guide to Wilderness & Travel Medicine"(1) "Illustrated Guide to Life-Threatening Emergencies"(1) ESSENTIAL EQUIPMENT SAM® Splint(1) CPR Barrier MicroShield® (1) Cavit® Dental Filling(1) 86F - 100F Thermometer(1) 96F - 107F Thermometer(1) Duct Tape 5 Yards (2")(1) Splinter Picker Forceps(1) Potable Aqua Tablets(50) Sawyer® Extractor(1) EMT Shears(1) Scalpel #11 Blade Sterile(1) Space Blanket(1)

WOUND MANAGEMENT ITEMS Double Antibiotic Ointment(10) Antiseptic Towelettes(6) Tincture of Benzoin(3) 20cc. Irrigation Syringe(1) Povidone Iodine Solution(1oz.) (3) Wound Closure Strips (1/4x4)(20) Cleansing Pads w/ Lidocaine(5) BLISTER ITEMS Moleskin and/or Molefoam(1) Spenco 2nd® Skin (3x4) (2) Non-woven Adhesive Knit (7x4) (2) INFECTIOUS CONTROL ITEMS Nitrile Examination Gloves(4) Antimicrobial Hand Wipes(2) Infectious Control Bag(2) BANDAGE MATERIALS 4x4 or 3x3 or 2x2 Sterile Dressings(31) Non-adherent Sterile Dressing(3x4) (4) Adhesive Tape 10 yards (1" & 2")(2) Strip & Knuckle Bandages(15) 8x10 and/or 5x9 Trauma Pads(30) Conforming Gauze Bandage (3")(2) Cotton Tipped Applicators(4) Elastic Bandage w/ Velcro® (3")(2) Triangular Bandage(1) Sterile Eye Pad(2) Bloodstopper® (1) MEDICATIONS Extra Strength Tylenol®(40) Antihistamine(10) Motrin®(40) Sting Relief Pads(4) Aloe Vera Gel 100%(1) Oral Rehydration Salts(6) Afrin® Nasal Spray(1) Glutose Paste(1) Mylanta® (8) Cortisone cream 1%(6) Tinactin® Antifungal Cream(6)

OTHER ITEMS Safety Pins(3) Accident Report & Pencil(1) Waterproof Matches(1) Pill Vials(7) Manufacturer: Adventure Medical Kits Manufacturer Item Number: 0100- 0465

1

how to make a survival kit out of an altoids tin (and two more life-saving diy projects)

2

the pocket kit Fitting inside an altoids tin, this kit is easy to keep on hand at all times This is ideal for anyone who wants to have the essential survival gear along each time they head into the field. Everything fits in the Altoids tin (above). It fulfills all the component groups (see "Make Your Own,-¿ last slide) except for shelter and protection, but add a survival blanket to your pocket and you'll be covered. Keep clicking through the following slides for details on all of this kit's components.

3

fire and light From left to right: Steel striker with Mini-Match magnesium fire starter. One side of the starter is magnesium and the other is flint. You scrape shavings off the former and then light them with a spark from the latter. Waterproof-windproof matches with a striker, placed in a mini zip-seal bag, then rolled and taped. 5 Tinder-Quik fire tabs, which light even when wet. They're great for stuffing in all the extra spaces of a survival tin to eliminate rattling. Candle. I cut a 1/2-inch-diameter emergency candle down to the height of the Altoids tin, so it fits in one corner. Photon Micro-Light II, a bright LED flashlight. water and food From left to right: Water bag. A Reynolds Oven Bag does the trick, cut down to fit in the tin, with a 1-quart marking as a guide for using iodine tablets. 20 Potable Aqua water purification tablets, repackaged in a mini glass vial. 50 feet of braided fishing line wound on a round sewing-machine bobbin. Fishing tackle kit in a plastic tube. Inside are assorted hooks, swivels, and split shot. 10 feet of 24-gauge snare wire.

4

signaling and navigation From left to right: Custom-made signal mirror. Commercial versions are all too thick to fit in this kit. I used a durable, ultrathin piece of plastic called mica (locksmiths slide this between a door and jamb to push the lock back). I glued on a piece of Mylar film, rounded the corners, and made a sighting hole. 20mm AA liquid-filled button compass. It's the best-quality instrument that will fit in the tin. tools and medical supplies From left to right: Commando Wire Saw, a small survival cable saw. 2 X-Acto knife blades, without the handle. You should always have a real knife on your person; these blades are for backup. Small packet of antibiotic ointment. 2 butterfly closures.

5

multipurpose From left to right: Several yards of nylon string. 2 magnetized sewing needles for sewing or making an emergency compass (floated in water on a leaf, the needle will face north). Small piece of glue, cut off a glue -gun stick. Small laminated card with instructions for water purification tablets and fishing knots. Fresnel magnifier. This lens can start a fire by magnifying the sun's rays to a point on your tinder, causing combustion. Safety pin, for repairing clothes and straps. 2 feet of aluminum foil for making a cup, signaling, cooking fish, etc. the day hunter This kit, designed to ride on your belt, is ideal for most deer hunting trips This holds more and larger components than the pocket kit, and you can carry it on your belt. The pouch is 6x4x2 inches, with a zippered compartment inside and another on the flap. And many of the small items are packed in a tin, which is bigger than the Altoids tin used in the Pocket Kit, measuring 4 3/8 x 3 1/4 x 11/16 inches. Keep clicking through the following slides for details on all of this kit's components.

6

fire and light From left to right: Mini-Match magnesium fire starter with steel striker. 12 waterproof-windproof matches with striker. Small disposable lighter. Tub candle (also called a tea light). 6 Tinder-Quik fire tabs. CMG Infinity LED Task Light flashlight. water and food From left to right: 24 Potable Aqua water purification tablets, repackaged in a small glass vial. 24 P.A. Plus tablets to neutralize the iodine taste from the above, repackaged in a glass vial. Small water bag as in the pocket kit but not cut down. 50 feet of 20-pound braided fishing line. Fishing tackle kit in a tube containing 12 assorted hooks, 6 swivels, 6 split shot, and a small jig or lure. 20 feet of 24-gauge snare wire.

7

signaling, navigation, and tools From left to right: StarFlash signal mirror by Survival Inc. It floats and is enclosed in an unbreakable Lexan polycarbonate. Liquid-filled, fixed-dial compass by Brunton. Partially serrated Spyderco folding wallet knife (chosen for size and shape of kit). Survival cable saw. 2 X-Acto knife blades. medical and multipurpose From left to right: 2 butterfly closures. Small packet of antibiotic ointment. Thread for making repairs on clothing. 2 magnetized sewing needles. Fresnel magnifier. Tick tweezers. Small golf pencil. 3 sheets waterproof paper (for leaving notes). Laminated instructions for water purification tablets and fishing knots. 6 safety pins. 2 feet of heavy-duty aluminum foil.

8

the wilderness hunter This fanny pack could save your life on extended hunts in remote country A medium fanny pack carries larger components and includes all the basic groups. It also lets you carry 32 ounces of water. I picked this particular model because it holds a bottle on each end, which helps balance the weight. Keep clicking through the following slides for details on all of this kit's components. fire and light From left to right: Princeton Tec Attitude flashlight with 3 ultrabright LEDs. 25 waterproof-windproof matches in a waterproof vial. Doan magnesium fire starter (it's much larger than the one described in the previous kits but easier to use). Pink Lady candle (sold at most camping stores). Waterproof match case filled with cotton balls (not shown) soaked with petroleum jelly for use as tinder. They light with one spark. 2 small green Cyalume light sticks.

9

shelter, personal protection, and medical supplies From left to right: Heavy-duty all-weather space blanket. With grommets around the outside, it can be used as an emergency tarp. Emergency poncho. Pack of antibacterial wipes. 40-foot hank of parachute (a.k.a. 550) cord. This has the greatest utility for survival purposes. Just 1/8 inch in diameter, it is a nylon shroud with seven inner nylon lines. These strong lines can be separated and used for building shelter, for making nets and snares, as fishing line, etc. Forty feet provides you with 280 feet of the inner lines plus the shroud. Waterproof pouch with 1 extra pair of socks and 1 extra pair of underwear. Small medical kit. I started with a 7x4-inch first-aid pouch from EMS and organized the contents in zip-seal bags, putting bandages and wound-management items in one packet, lip balm and medicine in another. water and food From left to right: 2 full 16-ounce Nalgene water bottles (not shown). Frontier water filter, a small straw-type filter that lets you drink directly from a stream or lake. Titanium Snow Peak Sierra cup with folding handles. In the Tin: bottle of 50 Potable Aqua water purification tablets and fishing tackle kit with braided line, (I packaged these components together they don't find their way to the bottom of the bag). 1 MRE entr¿¿e. 3 granola bars, 2 tea bags, 4 sugar packets, and 2 bouillon packets (in zip-seal bag).

10

signaling, navigation, and tools From left to right: StarFlash signal mirror. Skyblazer signal whistle. U-Dig-It folding trowel. Suunto Woodsman A-30-L orienteering compass (this type of compass is for navigating with a map). SOG SEAL Revolver knife. It has a large clip-point blade on one end and a saw on the other. This is not a folder but a fixed-blade knife in which the handle covers the end not being used. multipurpose From left to right: Various sizes of zip-seal bags. 2 garbage bags. Fresnel magnifier. Bandanna, which can be used to prefilter water, as a pot holder, or even as a bandanna. Several feet of heavy-duty aluminum foil. 1 travel roll of toilet paper. Magnetized sewing needles. Several safety pins.

11

make your own: three steps to a life-saving kit

1. Think about skills Focus not on the components but on the tasks you'll want them to perform. In a survival situation, you'll need to do most of the following: build a fire, construct a shelter, get and purify drinking water, gather food, signal for help, navigate back to civilization, and administer basic first aid. Once you know what types of functions you must be prepared to carry out, you can select the proper items.

2. Pick your tools Choose at least one component from each of the groups below. Some items can meet the requirements of more than one. Fine-tune your selection to match your location or the season, and remember that you may want more than one item from certain categories. For example, I always bring at least three ways to start a fire. Fire and Light: matches, disposable lighter, flint and striker, magnesium fire starter, tinder, candle, and a magnifying lens. For the latter: flashlight, headlamp, and chemical light sticks. Shelter and Personal Protection: survival blanket, poncho and rain gear, tarp, tube tent, parachute cord, headnet, hat, extra clothes, sunglasses, sunscreen, lip balm, and bug repellent. Water and Food: basic needs are water purification tablets or a filter, and a water container. Add snare wire and fishing kits for food collection, plus emergency rations, a small cup or pot, and a small stove. Signaling: signal mirror, whistle, smoke signals, flares, dye markers, and emergency strobe. Navigation: compass, maps, and GPS unit. Knives and Tools: knives, saw, trowel, and shovel. Medical: first-aid supplies for wound management, like bandages and first-aid ointment. Plus antibiotics, pain medicine, and personal medications. Multipurpose: aluminum foil, wire, duct tape, large garbage bags, bandanna, surgical tubing, zip-seal bags, dental floss, sewing thread and needles, glue stick, and safety pins can all fill more than one function. Miscellaneous items include a survival manual, knife sharpener, thermometer, pencil and paper, toilet paper, and a cellphone.

3. Build your kit Determine what size kit you want to carry, then decide on what you'll pack everything into. This can be a tin, a waterproof container, or a soft case such as a belt pouch, waist pack, or backpack. For mini kits, I usually prefer a tin, like the kind that Altoids come in; since you don't have room for a cup, you can use it to boil water. To make a mini kit, select the smallest components from each group. Be innovative when choosing items. Repackage them compactly if necessary, and whenever possible, select things that can perform more than one function.