The things they carried

Status
Not open for further replies.
Here's my kit contents:

A number of years ago when I started traveling about for work in a company truck, I became aware that I needed to put together an assortment of things to have "just in case", like I do in my personal truck. This evolved into a fanny pack that holds enough to get me by in any number of circumstances.

high energy food bars & trail-mix
personal medications
small first aid kit (plus sunblock wipes,super glue,butterfly closures,eye drops,etc.)
leatherman multi-tool
LED mini mag-light w/extra batteries
NAA .22mag w/assorted ammunition & shot shells
matches/lighter/magnifier glass/ magnesium bar flint & steel
compressed fuel tablets
two bright glow sticks
compass w/mirror
small notepad & pen
approx. $50 small bills
fixed blade knife & small wet stone
canteen on belt w/tin cup & purification tablets
about forty feet of parachute cord
three "space blankets"
two large trash bags
four large zip-lock bags
toilet paper
whistle
wrist watch
small whiskey flask
large silk bandanna
small fishing kit (line,hooks,flys,split shot,small bobber)


I generally have a jacket, hat, and sunglasses along with me. I always have a small Swiss army knife and a decent lock blade folder on me.

That's about it. It's a good enough assortment to make me feel good about having it along.....and I do! That was the whole point in putting together a kit small enough to be portable and always have it near.


Hank
 
You might consider a small folding aluminum can opener (P-38 type that was formerly included with military C-rations). I believe you can still find a commercial version from Coleman outdoor products. Weighs next to nothing.

Canned food is easier to scavenge in an urban/suburban environment than fresh fish...

Much more elegant than trying to beat a can open with a rock.
 
A good (lock blade) pocket knife will open cans just fine. The lid metal isn't that thick and a sharp tip will pass right through. Pull the blade back out, advance, and push down again. 15 strokes or so and a standard can is open. Learned that in scouts.... I think. I learned it anyways. Just don't cut your fingers off.

Of course if you are effete and have dollar(s) to blow you can get a can opener that is basically a p-38 with a stamped sheet metal spoon on one end. That way you aren't stuck eating off your knife once the can is open. :)
 
The P-38 can opener sure is a good tool considering its size. Both my Swiss Army knife and my Leatherman have can openers on hem. I sure do consider a can opener among "essential" items.

As far as a small fishing kit is concerned, it may have limited usefullnes depending on your location. The main reason that I included one in my kit was that fishing would be a viable souce of food in many areas that I frequint. I have a small pole and gear set in my truck just for that reason.
 
Effete?

Of course if you are effete and have dollar(s) to blow you can get a can opener that is basically a p-38 with a stamped sheet metal spoon on one end. That way you aren't stuck eating off your knife once the can is open.
Hey, I resemble that remark!

:D

I have the aforementioned p-38 + spoon openers. And an opener on my utility knife in the Jeep. And an opener on my leatherman (belt). And an opener on my cheap Chinese hobo knife (Jeep). And real p-38s and real p-51s (Jeep).

I do not, however, have an opener on my machete, my hatchet (Jeep), my hunting knife (Jeep), my Buck 110 folder (Jeep), my Gerber Silver Knight (front pocket), or my Kershaw Leek (outer pocket).

Clearly, I need to have more openers handy when I'm in the Jeep. I guess I'll add a p-38 to my keychain.

Did I ever mention that there's no such thing as too many knives?
 
I'm more and more intrigued by the idea of the bug out kit in a pelican case, as presented by Ed Ames. I really do like the idea of a dedicated revolver, waterproof case, and plenty of supplies to get someone through a 30 day crisis. Whatever kind it might be.

Arfin, do you carry a flashlight? Also, I was carrying a Leek, but I have replaced it with a Junkyard Dog, which seems much more suited to heavy-duty (survival, work etc) tasks.

I told everyone in the thread earlier that I wanted a Fenix P2D Q5 bin, but now I've found that the Olight T10 Q5 has better throw and equal brightness, and probably better construction. So that will be a christmas present for me.

I think carrying the minimum amount of stuff to be prepared, whether or not you can have a handgun, affords peace of mind. A super bright (180 lumens in this case) light is a good thing to have, too.

Just for fun, you guys might wanna look into a monocular scope for the kit(s) or even EDC. Fun item. There is a nice one for 25 on EDCdepot.com.
 
I've been working on a pocket kit. It is based on the BCB "Ultimate Survival Kit". The contents are as follows:

Francis Barker (SAS) button Compass
BCB Explorer button compass
AMK Rescue Flash Signal Mirror
Fox 40 Rescue Howler whistle
Doug Ritter Freedom Photon w/lanyard and hat clip
Spark-lite sparker w/ tinder cubes (5)
K1 “Sparkie” Flint/Steel/Magnesium in sheath
BCB stormproof matches (6)
Strike anywhere matches (6)
Leatherman Squirt P4 mini multi-tool (includes: pliers, wire cutters, wood/metal file, screwdrivers, awl, etc.)
Derma-safe folding saw (2 3/4in long) for metal or wood
BCB Commando wire saw
Spool of nylon thread (50ft of10.5lb w/ 1 large needle)
stainless steel utility wire (6 ft)
Scalpel Blade
Fresnel Lens Magnifier
550 paracord (8ft)
type 1 paracord (8ft)
small fishing kit (4 medium hooks, 2 split shot, 1 snap swivel)
safety pins (4)
pencil
survival instructions
small roll of duct tape (2ft)
heavy duty aluminum foil (3sq ft)
P32 can opener
pieces of waterproof notepaper (2)
travel drive
small game snares (2)
paper clips (2)
plastic cord stopper (1)
band-aids (8 = 4 regular/4 small) /alcohol wipes (2)
seasoning packet (1 beef / 1 chicken )
Katadyn Micropur water purification tablets (6)
bottle liners (2)
 

Attachments

  • PSK tin 2.jpg
    PSK tin 2.jpg
    66.3 KB · Views: 56
Doug, that's a nice kit. I really like that saw, the Derma-Safe one. Isn't there some redundancy with two saws though? Guess you feel it's that important.

I saw a cool "pocket chainsaw" that is basically paracord with a length of sharp chain. Could be very useful for heftier cutting activities.
 
Oh yeah...any containers for holding water during purification?
 
conwict,

Definitely some redundancy with the two saws. The difference is that the Derma Safe saw will also cut metal, whereas the BCB wire saw is only good for wood. Also, from what I've read the wire saws seem to be somewhat flimsy, so it might not be a bad idea to have both. Pocket chainsaws seem a little too large for this pocket kit, but I carry one in my regular emergency kit. If I run out of room, and need to add a more important item, I could remove one. I don't have much in the way of water containers, but I do carry a couple of Playtex bottle refill bags in the kit, along with some Katadyn water tabs. As mentioned above, I carry a larger bug out kit with a couple of surplus 1 quart canteens in my car. One of these canteens would work well with the 1 quart water tabs I carry in my kit. I continue to refine my pocket kit to fit my EDC needs. Whereas previously I had thought of the kit mostly as an outdoors survival kit, now I think of it more as a combo wilderness/office pocket kit. I've added a little cash, some meds in a couple of pill fobs, and some everyday office use things like paper clips, rubber bands and Fisher Bullet Pen to the kit. Currently it's stuffed full, and I may have to do a little rearranging if I decide to add anything else.
 
Last edited:
I have a BOB (Bug Out Bag) which is mostly a trauma med kit with Quik Klot and Israeli battle dressings and the like. But I have a very complete list for in-home long term survival or conversely on the road long term survival.

Here's the LONG LIST:

Pre Event Actions:

1. Learn about the natural disasters that could occur in your community from your local emergency management office or American Red Cross chapter. Learn whether hazardous materials are produced, stored or transported near your area. Learn about possible consequences of deliberate acts of terror. Ask how to prepare for each potential emergency and how to respond.

2. Talk with employers and school officials about their emergency response plans.

3. Talk with your household about potential emergencies and how to respond to each. Talk about what you would need to do in an evacuation. If someone in the family has a critical job, expect them to be gone.

4. Plan how your household would stay in contact if you were separated. Identify two meeting places: the first should be near your home—in case of fire, perhaps a tree or a telephone pole; the second should be away from your neighborhood in case you cannot return home.

5. Pick a friend or relative who lives out of the area for household members to call to say they are okay.

6. Draw a floor plan of your home. Mark two escape routes from each room.

7. Post emergency telephone numbers by telephones. Teach children how and when to call 911.

8. Make sure everyone in your household knows how and when to shut off water, gas, and electricity at the main switches. Consult with your local utilities if you have questions.

9. Take a first aid and CPR class. Local American Red Cross chapters can provide information. Official certification by the American Red Cross provides “good Samaritan” law protection for those giving first aid.

10. Reduce the economic impact of disaster on your property and your household’s health and financial well-being:

Review property insurance policies before disaster strikes – make sure policies are current and be certain they meet your needs (type of coverage, amount of coverage, and hazards covered – flood, earthquake, etc.)

Protect your household’s financial well-being before a disaster strikes— review life insurance policies and consider saving money in an “emergency” savings account that could be used in any crisis. It is advisable to keep a small amount of cash or traveler’s checks at home in a safe place where you can quickly gain access to it in case of an evacuation.

Be certain that health insurance policies are current and meet the needs of your household.

11. Consider ways to help neighbors who may need special assistance, such as the elderly or the disabled.

12. Make arrangements for pets. Pets are not allowed in public shelters. Service animals for those who depend on them are allowed.

13. Ensure all immunizations are up-to-date. If we are hit with true mass causality event, the bodies may lie around for days or weeks. Rotting corpses will cause disease outbreaks.

14. If you have a disability or special need, you may have to take additional steps to protect yourself and your household in an emergency. If you know of friends or neighbors with special needs, help them with these extra precautions. Hearing impaired may need to make special arrangements to receive warning. Mobility impaired may need assistance in getting to a shelter. Households with a single working parent may need help from others both in planning for disasters and during an emergency. People without vehicles may need to make arrangements for transportation. People with special dietary needs should have an adequate emergency food supply. Find out about special assistance that may be available in your community. Register with the office of emergency services or fire department for assistance, so needed help can be provided quickly in an emergency.

15. Create a network of neighbors, relatives, friends and co-workers to aid you in an emergency. Discuss your needs and make sure they know how to operate necessary equipment.

16. If you are mobility impaired and live or work in a high-rise building, have an escape chair. If you live in an apartment building, ask the management to mark accessible exits clearly and to make arrangements to help you evacuate the building. Keep extra wheelchair batteries, oxygen, catheters, medication, food for guide or hearing-ear dogs, or other items you might need. Also, keep a list of the type and serial numbers of medical devices you need.

17. Those who are not disabled should learn who in their neighborhood or building is disabled so that they may assist them during emergencies. If you are a care-giver for a person with special needs, make sure you have a plan to communicate if an emergency occurs.

Preparedness Overview:

You may need to survive on your own for three days or more. This means having your own water, food and emergency supplies. Try using backpacks or duffel bags to keep the supplies together. Assembling the supplies you might need following a disaster is an important part of your disaster plan. You should prepare emergency supplies for the following situations:

A disaster supply kit with essential food, water, and supplies for at least three days—this kit should be kept in a designated place and be ready to “grab and go” in case you have to leave your home quickly because of a disaster, such as a flash flood or major chemical emergency. Make sure all household members know where the kit is kept.

Consider having additional supplies for sheltering or home confinement for up to four weeks.

You should also have a disaster supply kit at work. This should be in one container, ready to "grab and go" in case you have to evacuate the building. Remember to have a comfortable pair of shoes in case you need to walk long distances.

A car kit of emergency supplies, including food and water, to keep stored in your car at all times. This kit would also include flares, jumper cables, and seasonal supplies.

Stockpiling Water Safely

Stocking water reserves should be a top priority. Drinking water in emergency situations should not be rationed. Therefore, it is critical to store adequate amounts of water for your household. Individual needs vary, depending on age, physical condition, activity, diet, and climate. A normally active person needs at least two quarts of water daily just for drinking. Children, nursing mothers, and ill people need more. Very hot temperatures can double the amount of water needed. Because you will also need water for sanitary purposes and, possibly, for cooking, you should store at least one gallon of water per person per day.

Store water in thoroughly washed plastic, fiberglass or enamel-lined metal containers. Don't use containers that can break, such as glass bottles. Never use a container that has held toxic substances. Sound plastic containers, such as soft drink bottles, are best. You can also purchase food grade plastic buckets or drums. Containers for water should be rinsed with a diluted bleach solution (one part bleach to ten parts water) before use. Previously used bottles or other containers may be contaminated with microbes or chemicals. Do not rely on untested devices for decontaminating water.

If your water is treated commercially by a water utility, you do not need to treat water before storing it. Additional treatments of treated public water will not increase storage life. If you have a well or public water that has not been treated, follow the treatment instructions provided by your public health service or water provider. If you suspect that your well may be contaminated, contact your local or state health department or agriculture extension agent for specific advice.

Seal your water containers tightly, label them and store them in a cool, dark place. It is important to change stored water every six months.

Food:

If activity is reduced, healthy people can survive on half their usual food intake for an extended period or without any food for many days. Food, unlike water, may be rationed safely, except for children and pregnant women.

You don’t need to go out and buy unfamiliar foods to prepare an emergency food supply. You can use the canned foods, dry mixes and other staples on your cupboard shelves. Canned foods do not require cooking, water or special preparation. Be sure to include a manual can opener.

Keep canned foods in a dry place where the temperature is fairly cool. To protect boxed foods from pests and to extend their shelf life, store the food in tightly closed plastic or metal containers.

Replace items in your food supply every six months. Throw out any canned good that becomes swollen, dented, or corroded. Use foods before they go bad, and replace them with fresh supplies. Date each food item with a marker. Place new items at the back of the storage area and older ones in front.

Food items that you might consider including in your disaster supply kit include: ready-to-eat meats, fruits, and vegetables; canned or boxed juices, milk, and soup; high-energy foods like peanut butter, jelly, low-sodium crackers, granola bars, and trail mix; vitamins; foods for infants or persons on special diets; cookies, hard candy; instant coffee, cereals, and powdered milk.

Buy a box of MRE entrée’s – 72 packages of main course MRE meals and keep them at home. They will fee a familty of four for about a week. It’s no frills eating.

You may need to survive on your own after a disaster. Local officials and relief workers will be on the scene after a disaster, but they cannot reach everyone immediately. You could get help in hours, or it may take days. Basic services, such as electricity, gas, water, sewage treatment and telephones, may be cut off for days, even a week or longer. Or you may have to evacuate at a moment’s notice and take essentials with you.

You probably won’t have the opportunity to shop or search for the supplies you’ll need. Your household will cope best by preparing for disaster before it strikes.

First aid:
Sterile adhesive bandages in assorted sizes
Assorted sizes of safety pins
Isopropyl alcohol
Hydrogen peroxide
Antibiotic ointment
Latex gloves (2 pairs)
Petroleum jelly
2-inch and 4-inch sterile gauze pads (4-6 each size)
Triangular bandages(3)
2-inch and 3-inch sterile rolled bandages (3 rolls each)
Cotton balls
Scissors
Tweezers
Needle
Moistened towelettes
Antiseptic
Thermometer
Tongue depressor blades (2)
Tube of petroleum jelly or other lubricant
Sunscreen
Aspirin
Anti-diarrhea medication
Antacid
Tagamet
Decongestant
Cough Suppressant
Space Blanket
Mole Skin & Foam
Epi-pin
Snake Bite Kit

Tools:
A portable, battery-powered radio and extra batteries
Flashlight(3), extra bulbs(6) & batteries(12)
Oil Lamps (Hurricane)
Signal flare(6)
Candles
Matches
Lighters
Waterproof Matches
Magnesium Fire Starter
Paraffin
Leather-man Tool(2)
All Purpose Knife(2)
Duct tape
Scissors
Plastic sheeting
Whistle
Small canister, A-B-C-type fire extinguisher(2)
Compass(2)
Work gloves (2)
Paper, pens, and pencils
Needles and thread (2)
Wrist Watch
Honing Stone & Oil
Hatchet
Shovel

Kitchen items:
Manual can opener
Mess kit
Fork & Spoon
Knife
Frying Pan
Pots
Plastic Forks, Spoons, Knives
Heavy Duty Paper Plates
PUR Drinking Water System
Extra filters for PUR Water Filter
Water Bottles
Propane Stove
Propane Grill
Extra Case(s) Propane
Heavy Duty Tin Foil
Trioxane Stove
Trioxane Fuel
Sterno Fuel
ZipLoc bags (Lg & Sm)
Cooler

Food:
Vitamins
Summer Sausage
Beef Jerky
Slim Jim
Peanut Butter
Hard Candy
Freeze Dried Dinners
Canned Veggies
Canned Meats
Canned Soups & Stews
Bulk Flour
Bulk Grains (Wheat, etc.)
Coffee
Tea
Sugar
Salt & Pepper

Water:
(1 gal. per person per day)

Sanitation and hygiene items:
Washcloth and towel
Towelettes
Soap
Hand sanitizer
Liquid detergent
Tooth paste and toothbrushes
Shampoo
Deodorant
Feminine Supplies
Razor
Shaving cream
Lip balm
Sunscreen
Insect repellent
Heavy-duty plastic garbage bags (to go potty in)
Toilet paper
Medium-sized plastic bucket with tight lid
Disinfectant
Chlorine bleach
Shovel (for a latrine)

Documents:
Personal identification
Cash
Emergency phone numbers
Maps of the area

Misc:
Extra pair of prescription glasses
Candles
Extra set of car & house keys
Reading material, books, etc.
Games for the kids

Clothing (no cotton):
Heavy, Waterproof Boots
Wool Socks
Rain gear
Hat w/ visor
Gloves
Sunglasses
Capelin Pants (4)
Wind pants
Polypro Shirt (2)(short sleeve)
Polortek Shirt (2)(Long sleeve)
Polartek Pants (2)
Polypro Boxers(5)
Gortex/Thinsulate Parka
Gortex/Thinsulate Bibs

Shelter:
Sleeping bag
Sleeping pad
Tent
Small Tarps
Large Tarp
Folding Chair
Nylon Cord

Here is the ultimate retirement survival vehicle (link)

http://www.sportsmobile.com/ultimate.html

With optional extra large fuel tank + auxiliary tank and "Jerry" Cans on the rear effective single "fuel up" range is about 1200 miles.
 
good

Doug Ritter's..i heard about that.but i am not familiar with that.so how is your experience with that.? please reply me.
 
Another version . . .

I enjoyed reading through this thread when it was first around, and it provided a good basis for coming up with the 'Altoids' kits I made up for myself and some friends as Christmas gifts. Rather than cut & paste, here's a link with the info on the kit.

Cheers!

Shadan7
 
Status
Not open for further replies.
Back
Top