ZombieHunter_EKY
05-03-2007, 02:01 PM
Found this over on warrilfes.com
written by CJM
Hello everyone, I recently migrated here from FS and wanted to share some of my knowledge with you all. I hope you get something out of it, the following ost took me 3 days to type, edit and write up when I originally made it.
I have noticed the same questions popping up over and over and over again. What is the best <insert piece of gear here>, who makes the best X, what should I carry, what should I ditch, how much should I carry, why should I carry X, etc.
To combat this and give a whole load of good info I am gonna make this thread. It is for the Prepper starting out and the already squared away Prepper as well-everyone can learn something!
Gear is essential to any mission, be it walking your property, hunting, getting out of dodge/bugging out, rescue operations, or just general use. Alot of it with the proper knowledge can save your life, but dont think just b/c you have tons of the best gear and your gonna run off to the woods (ala RedDawn) that your gonna be fine.
You have to know how to use the gear, whats its for and how to improvise with it if need be. Remember your in the field and may have to make due with much less than you normally ever would and perhaps even the best laid plans dont work out at first or at all and you maybe left with just your pack. I know it sounds cliche to have nothing but your pack-however this list should allow you with the proper knowledge to get to wherever your going or int he event you cant or get there and problems arise-set up a new basecamp and live there if need be, course I cannot think of everything either so evaluate what you need to carry. Obviously if you live in florida your not gonna need cold weather gear and if you live in maine that jungle sleeping bag in the winter is gonna kill you.
Before we do anything Go read the book: SAS Survival, this book will explain how to live off the land, fieldcraft, hunting/fishing, what plants to eat/not eat, etc and is a priceless hunk of paper! Everyone should own one!
Gear is referred to in lines or stages. Usually this goes from light, medium and heavy gear.
The basic principle is you have these 3 lines, each sort of like a module of stuff you carry and use and may replenish.
The reason behind this idea is so your never left with nothing, for you never know when you may have to ditch almsot everything to evade and escape certain problems or you may have to ditcht he gear b/c your caught in a rapid, or running from a large animal or person intent on doing harm to you.
One thing if for certain you cannot live out of a ruck forever and keep going and its really a bad idea to store everything you can in said ruck or pack as if you ditch or lose it your without a paddle and in a pretty bad situation.
Now the lines explained,
Everyday carry and small kit:
Refers to gear you should have on you at all times, usually in your pockets, on your belt, in a fanny pack or an altoids kit (more on that later).
Line 1: Small stuff
The gear you want on you no matter what, incase you gotta ditch everything else you still can make due with this stuff.
Line 2: Your fighting gear and sustinence
Your basic fighting load, a vest or harness of some sort, your long arm and pistol with at least 4-6+ mags for the long gun and 3-5 for your pistol. Along with some basic sustinence and most important of all WATER.
Line 3: Longterm and long lasting
Your long term gear, this stuff will keep you going for a good period of time so long as you can get food and water. It is designed to help you reach your destination on foot of need be.
Your first Everyday carry gear should consist of the most basic stuff, you want basic things that in a pinch could really help you out and in that pinch maybe even save a life.
I personally carry with me in one way or another whenever possible the following:
Leatherman Wave multi-tool and thier bit kit (small bits the tool takes like phillips, slotted, torx, hex, etc-they realyl come in handy) - You really want a multi tool, gerber, SAK, Victorinox, and Lealtherman are all top brands. You should choose the one that best suits you and your needs, as no one tool will do it for everyone.
Gerber Infinity LED Ultra - This little flashlight last's 100 hours, takes (1) AA battery, is bright enough for alot of stuff and its very compact at a mere 3" or so long and 1/2" wide. I highly recommend it as a task light..
Mini LED keychain - these are a godsend, they last a long time due to a lithium battery, are decently bring and very small. I have quite a few, mostly in red and white. White is for task work and red is for night (you dont want people seeing you).
GI issue Can opener with spoon - Yes the leatherman already has an opener on it, but a backup is quite handy and it has a sppon on it for eating. While not the best it comes in hand and can be put on your ring of keys. There is also a smaller versionc alled the P-38 without the spoon.
BSA Hotspark (or other small swedish firesteel, etc) - Basically a small firestarter you strike your knife or my favorite a trimmer hacksaw blade to make sparks and ignite fire.
Bic Lighter - while butane lighters are refillable and zippos are ok (they eventually evaporate the fuel) a bic will last for some time and only needs to be dried if it gets wet. I usually carry on me a mini bic in the leatherman pouch and a fullsize in my pocket.
I also usually carry a piece of 8x11 pc paper out of habit for jotting down notes or whatever. Also carry a mechanical pencil (wont break) and pen too.
The atloid or survival pocket kit : Designed as a mini kit for the times when you have nothing else, get lost in the woods or whatever ailes you, for basic survival at any cost.
Most people tend to make these out of whitmans sampler containers or altoid tins, some of us take advantage of using a small otterbox as the NRA offers periodically a small kit for 13 bucks (the contents are worth well over $25)! I personally use the NRA sized kit with my stuff in the otterbox it comes in (with the foam insides removed). The otterbox is waterproof and locks securely to boot.
Inside these kits people often stow things to make fire, small knives, mini bic lighters, drinking tablets for water treatment, asprin, small fishing kits, etc.
My Kit: After reading this you wont believe me as to all the stuff I fit into it-pictures to follow if I get time and want to try and take it apart (it aint easy getting back together!)
The stuff inside my kit is tried and proven to be worthwhile it saved my rear about 2 or 3 times now (nothing major), and it really helped.
(1) 55gallon contractor trashbag black - use it for shelter, or whatever else you can figure out. In a pinch it makes a really good hooch (tarp/tent), a sleeping bag or whatever else you can figure out.
Mini bic lighter
Blastmatch firestarter - this gizmo makes a really good shower of sparks and is springloaded so you can use it with one hand. it works really well but can break so be carefull! Although it takes up alot of usuable room inthe box its worth it as its the easiest and most comfortable starter I own.
Mini pen knife - nothing special, just a sharpened mini pocket knife with scissors, blade and file I found. It is razor sharp and probably could do some light to medium work but thats all its their for.
Bag or cotton balls smothered with petroleum jelly - these little guys make superb firestarters and compact quite nicely. I have ten of them stored in my kit.
Rite in the rain paper (3x5) - this stuff is water proof paper and is quite heavy, could be used to start fires too. I carry 4 sheets of it.
NRA starflash mirror - simple signal mirror, about 2x3".
Fishing kit - some small hooks, fake worms, weights, about 20 feet of 10lb line, nothing special but it helps and all of the stuff has multiple uses.
15 (approx) Saftery pins, assorted sizes - use for whatever you can come up with, fish hooks, clothing repairs, etc.
Strike anywhere matches - cut down to about 1/2 the size 20 (approx)
Folding razorblade - this is super sharp and is a really good tool, I get them at http://www.countycomm. for about 2 bucks a pop. You could also just use a single edge razor although this is much safer as it has a handle!
Carpentars Pencil - jotting down notes, woodshavings for fire, tougher than a normal pencil. I cut it down to about 2" long and left it unsharpened for the woodshavings I can use for fire if need be.
30 Feet 50lb fishing line - this is for heavy duty stuff, making bunny and or small animal snares, setting up a hasty hook, whatever you can come up with.
Small container of floss (the kind you get from the dentist) - use this as field expedient sewing thread, suters (dont recommend), or whatever else. Make sure you have a few sewing needles too (I carry 2)
Small survival whistle - get a really compact whistle and use it for signal for help or whatever, comes in really handy if you lost and hear voices-just use the whistle and they will be able to find you, yelling is harder as you cannot tell the direct as easy.
Potable aqua (1) -yes I know it makes water taste worse than dirt, and it is onyl good for awhile once opened but its the most compact stuff youc an get for a kit like this. You could use katadyn micro tabs but they wont fit as easy.
Advil/tylenol/asprin (approx 20 tabs) - I personally carry advil as not only is it a pain reliever, fever reducer-but its an anti inflamatory (think muscles!). It really helps in the long run. If one could find room you could also have some pepto bismol incase you drink, eat or feel sick. I have yet to find a way to sandwich it into the case.
Size 3" long nails - these are for whatever you can come up with, be they a spearpoint for spearing fish, repairing soemthing, heling pitch your hasty hooch/tent as stakes, etc. I wrapped mine ina bout 30 feet of mason line (small yellow nylon string) so I have some extra rope!
Few bandaids and butteryfly closures, nothing major but every bit helps!
On the outside of the case (now this is critcal) you have some wasted space. I chose to put several layers of duct tape on the box (with the hindge area cut out so the box opens) so you have some tape and that stuff comes in really handy! Also I made a rope handle out of some paracord, about 10 feet of it!!! Really helpfull!!)
Gear Line 2: The Fighting Load, this gear is for fighting not survival.
This gear consists of vest, weapons, comms, and some other stuff you should have:
A good solid load bearing vest or harness, and a buttpack - I cannot help you with what you need-only you can determine which ones you want.
Depending on your weapons you will adjust the magazine and ammo values accordingly:
-Main weapon, be it of the carbine type (AR/AK, etc) or heavier rifle (FAL/M1A, etc)
-6 to 8 mags (+1 in gun), 1-5 stowed in your pack, loaded or unloaded (your choice)
-1 or more magazine of tracers - you decide why you need them
-1-3 bandoliers of ammo for your rifle.
-Sidearm in a proven caliber, 9mm, .45ACP. To a lesser extent .40 S&W, .38/.357
-An extra 1-5 mags for your sidearm
-A possible backup sidearm in a perhaps the same or a smaller caliber with an extra mag and some ammo
-Extra ammo for sidearm(s)
-Bug repellent - 100% deet if possible, dont use on anyone under 12! I use outdoorsmans off in a manaul pump bottle, compact and good stuff. Spray on your clothes-not on your skin!!!
-Camopack for face
-Radio/Walkie talkie - FRS/GMRS radios
-Small radio - GP4L as it takes 2 AA batteries, has multiband reiceiver (SW/FM/AM), light, clock, and lasts long time! http://www.countycomm.com
Batteriers:
+/- Depending on your needs:
AAA (8)
AA (8)
Extra set for any electronic scopes, or other devices you use.
Solar charger if possible, brunton makes a really good model but it isnt light nor is it small.
Weapon Cleaning Gear - I like an otis as they are super compact and superbly made and rugged; also carry the following
* Rod/Pull Through
* Bore Brush
* Chamber Brush
* Patches
* CLP
-More water tabs
-A few flares
-550 cord about 100-150 ft
-Binoculars (discretionary)
-Good water bladder like a camelback or platypus
-Poncho Liner - Woodland Camo USGI
-Poncho - Woodland Camo USGI
-Stripped MRE's (approx 3-5)
-Mountain house meals or similar
First Aid Kit
* Gauze Bandages
* Mil-Compress
* 2 Suture Kits
* Motrin
* Lomotil
* Burn Cream
* Q-tips
-Snake Bite Kit
Messkit or
-Canteen USGI
-Canteen Cup USGI
-Canteen Cup Stove USGI
-Canteen Carrier w/ Water Tabs USGI
-Trioxane/hexamine/esbit Tabs
Gear Line 3: This is really starting to get heavy, so watch out if your not quite fit!
This is your 3rd line gear, the heavy stuff! It is meant to sustain you out of your pack (with suplementing from your surroundings) for a max of two weeks. It is imperative you understand you dont take this pack and run off into the woods and expect to survive with only the contents of thie pack!
This is also my list and will vary from yours, all of this fits in or on a large alice or similar pack.
-150 to 250+ ft of 550 cord
-Platypus 2 Liter container
-Water Bladder - Camelback Storm in Ruck
-Water Purifier - I use a MSR sweet water good for 200 gallons, but the best is a katadyn, the 13k one.
-Sleeping Bag - I use a snugpak hawk 9 rated to 23F/14F (coldest!)
-Sleeping Bag liner - I use a cocoon silk liner, it adds 10F to your bags warmth and keeps the bag cleaner, well worth it.
-Fleece sleeping bag - part of my 3 tiered system, use it onthe inside or outside of your main bag when you really are cold.
-Sleeping Pad - Thermarest prolite 4, expensive but has a great insulating quality and compact
-Tent - I use mountain hardwear pct 1, 3lbs packs 17"x4". A good solo tent!
-Tarp - british basha, use as expediant shelter for you tentless people...works well! USe aluminum gutternails for stakes!
-Bivy Shelter I use a cabelas XPG bivy sack
-4-6 pair of socks USGI
-2 set of cammies (top and bottom) (your wearing one now and ditched your jeans I hope)
-OD Fleece ECWS top
-Fleece ECWS pants
-1 OD Tee Shirt
-1 OD underarmor style shirt
-Mtn house freeze dried or MRE's, carry as much as you think you need than double it!
-Many packets of Top Ramen with Noodles
-Gore Tex Rain Suit Top and Bottom
-1 Packet Baby Wipes
-1 Roll TP
-Small tooth brush and tooth paste (keep sealed well or ditch, bears andother critters will come after it!)
-Extra Ammo in bandoleers
-Pair Thermal Underwear (Thermax/Polypro,etc.)
-Winter Gloves
-Winter Fleece hat
-4 pair wigwam wool cold weather socks or similar WOOL socks..
-Snow Camo - I use West German 2pc coveralls
Comms/Land Nav:
Comms are super usefull in anycase, be it needing to communitcate on the squad level or even something more elaborate like a ham setup or cb. I personally like using FRS/GRMS radios as they are simple, have long battery life and pretty good range for the price.
A ham or CB setup is quite good as well but not nearly as cost effective imho for most people, although a CB radio setup in your cars and a base station somewhere is a good idea! A ham is even better if you know how to use one.
You should also get a police scanner, this way you can pick up alot of the traffic that goes on-be warned they use thier own jargin in most areas but you can figure it out if you listen to enough of it-obviously you wont be hearing code 11 every 5 minutes if its an officer down vs hearing code 19 which means a traffic stop (those arent real codes btw). Take not alot of areas use jammers in thier systems so only the police/FD/EMS can listen in, however these systems may not work or be shut down all together for any reason. You can still pic up stuff with a scanner in alot of areas too.
Another good bunch of gear to have is the old USGI sound powered telephones and comms wiring, they use no batteries unlike the newer (unfortunelty more availible) phones and are simple to operate, if you can find good oens buy'em up asap!
One item of concern however: all of your comms can be and will be intercepted if "they" want to, this means anything you say can be used agaisnt you. That is why its so important to learn the military alphabet and number system, learn how to read maps and compass's and generally know information about land nav. Even better is to each have a dedicated system of securely encoding your transmissions, while possible to decode them it is quite tough if you dont know what your dealing with.
The basic idea is to use a thick book or set of books and use letters or words based on lines, pages and sentences in the book to code and decode your message. Its a complicated process but works really well, and used mostly for totally secure comms from a base station and not in the field really as its to much of a bother unless you have time. Basic idea is we each have a copy of said book outlined with numbers on each page, sentence, paragraph and in some cases words. Then when you transmit you have a call sign for said book your gonna use the the receiver has said book as well. So for example lets use the book catcher in the rye, the secure coded tranmission would go something like this in a perfect world:
Echo 1 to echo base, do you copy.
Copy echo 1 this is echo base, go ahead.
Echo base get holden (holden was the main character in the book, you can use anyname you want for the book).
Copy, go ahead.
Echo base 22, 3, 9, 2. Repeat 22, 3, 9, 2 (in this case it refers in this format: pg 22, paragraph 3, line 9 and word 2 on line 9) complicated but it works.
Generally speaking whatever that word was the unit reported to its base that word, for all the listeners know they were speaking some sort of code and without said book you cannot decipher it. Int he case of the unit the word they said was (for sake of this example) enemy. The word would have been followed in code format till you got the entire sentence, its quite easy to get once you understand and having more than 1 book you use is a really good idea.
Land Navigation:
Land nav is crucial to survival in alot of situations, I cannot help but think that without a compass your gonan be sunk if you have to travel overland with lots of distance. Remember you probably will not be able to travel on the roads, be they highways, mainroads, or even sideroads. I would be wary of doing so as it exposes you to god only knows what. Infact I would stay clear of most roads by being 2-3 miles inland of them if you can. If you have no choice then thats another story..
As for land navigation a compass and map of your area of operations (AO) is better than a gps. The main reason is a compass never needs batteries, it doesnt need connect to a network (who knows if the GPS networkw ill still be up anyway) and is simple to use once you know the basics.
A good compass and a good map are your friends. You have 2 types of maps too, 1. Topographic (the ones you wanna use-they have contour lines that show elevation) and 2. Planemetric - or road maps, handy to have but not always needed.
Then you have compasses, I personally would buy a really good suunto compass. The military lensatatics are ok but you will have to do calcuations and it becomes a PITA. This is a really good compass for the bucks: http://www.opticsgiant.com/suuna3woodco.html
Along with your compass you need a good topomap, these can be bought in a lot of places and are even free on the web @ http://www.topozone.com/default.asp
Now I wont lecture you on how to use a compass, instead I have a nifty powerpoint slideshow that will explain: http://www.box.net/public/5hmyfnrdp
:apc:
written by CJM
Hello everyone, I recently migrated here from FS and wanted to share some of my knowledge with you all. I hope you get something out of it, the following ost took me 3 days to type, edit and write up when I originally made it.
I have noticed the same questions popping up over and over and over again. What is the best <insert piece of gear here>, who makes the best X, what should I carry, what should I ditch, how much should I carry, why should I carry X, etc.
To combat this and give a whole load of good info I am gonna make this thread. It is for the Prepper starting out and the already squared away Prepper as well-everyone can learn something!
Gear is essential to any mission, be it walking your property, hunting, getting out of dodge/bugging out, rescue operations, or just general use. Alot of it with the proper knowledge can save your life, but dont think just b/c you have tons of the best gear and your gonna run off to the woods (ala RedDawn) that your gonna be fine.
You have to know how to use the gear, whats its for and how to improvise with it if need be. Remember your in the field and may have to make due with much less than you normally ever would and perhaps even the best laid plans dont work out at first or at all and you maybe left with just your pack. I know it sounds cliche to have nothing but your pack-however this list should allow you with the proper knowledge to get to wherever your going or int he event you cant or get there and problems arise-set up a new basecamp and live there if need be, course I cannot think of everything either so evaluate what you need to carry. Obviously if you live in florida your not gonna need cold weather gear and if you live in maine that jungle sleeping bag in the winter is gonna kill you.
Before we do anything Go read the book: SAS Survival, this book will explain how to live off the land, fieldcraft, hunting/fishing, what plants to eat/not eat, etc and is a priceless hunk of paper! Everyone should own one!
Gear is referred to in lines or stages. Usually this goes from light, medium and heavy gear.
The basic principle is you have these 3 lines, each sort of like a module of stuff you carry and use and may replenish.
The reason behind this idea is so your never left with nothing, for you never know when you may have to ditch almsot everything to evade and escape certain problems or you may have to ditcht he gear b/c your caught in a rapid, or running from a large animal or person intent on doing harm to you.
One thing if for certain you cannot live out of a ruck forever and keep going and its really a bad idea to store everything you can in said ruck or pack as if you ditch or lose it your without a paddle and in a pretty bad situation.
Now the lines explained,
Everyday carry and small kit:
Refers to gear you should have on you at all times, usually in your pockets, on your belt, in a fanny pack or an altoids kit (more on that later).
Line 1: Small stuff
The gear you want on you no matter what, incase you gotta ditch everything else you still can make due with this stuff.
Line 2: Your fighting gear and sustinence
Your basic fighting load, a vest or harness of some sort, your long arm and pistol with at least 4-6+ mags for the long gun and 3-5 for your pistol. Along with some basic sustinence and most important of all WATER.
Line 3: Longterm and long lasting
Your long term gear, this stuff will keep you going for a good period of time so long as you can get food and water. It is designed to help you reach your destination on foot of need be.
Your first Everyday carry gear should consist of the most basic stuff, you want basic things that in a pinch could really help you out and in that pinch maybe even save a life.
I personally carry with me in one way or another whenever possible the following:
Leatherman Wave multi-tool and thier bit kit (small bits the tool takes like phillips, slotted, torx, hex, etc-they realyl come in handy) - You really want a multi tool, gerber, SAK, Victorinox, and Lealtherman are all top brands. You should choose the one that best suits you and your needs, as no one tool will do it for everyone.
Gerber Infinity LED Ultra - This little flashlight last's 100 hours, takes (1) AA battery, is bright enough for alot of stuff and its very compact at a mere 3" or so long and 1/2" wide. I highly recommend it as a task light..
Mini LED keychain - these are a godsend, they last a long time due to a lithium battery, are decently bring and very small. I have quite a few, mostly in red and white. White is for task work and red is for night (you dont want people seeing you).
GI issue Can opener with spoon - Yes the leatherman already has an opener on it, but a backup is quite handy and it has a sppon on it for eating. While not the best it comes in hand and can be put on your ring of keys. There is also a smaller versionc alled the P-38 without the spoon.
BSA Hotspark (or other small swedish firesteel, etc) - Basically a small firestarter you strike your knife or my favorite a trimmer hacksaw blade to make sparks and ignite fire.
Bic Lighter - while butane lighters are refillable and zippos are ok (they eventually evaporate the fuel) a bic will last for some time and only needs to be dried if it gets wet. I usually carry on me a mini bic in the leatherman pouch and a fullsize in my pocket.
I also usually carry a piece of 8x11 pc paper out of habit for jotting down notes or whatever. Also carry a mechanical pencil (wont break) and pen too.
The atloid or survival pocket kit : Designed as a mini kit for the times when you have nothing else, get lost in the woods or whatever ailes you, for basic survival at any cost.
Most people tend to make these out of whitmans sampler containers or altoid tins, some of us take advantage of using a small otterbox as the NRA offers periodically a small kit for 13 bucks (the contents are worth well over $25)! I personally use the NRA sized kit with my stuff in the otterbox it comes in (with the foam insides removed). The otterbox is waterproof and locks securely to boot.
Inside these kits people often stow things to make fire, small knives, mini bic lighters, drinking tablets for water treatment, asprin, small fishing kits, etc.
My Kit: After reading this you wont believe me as to all the stuff I fit into it-pictures to follow if I get time and want to try and take it apart (it aint easy getting back together!)
The stuff inside my kit is tried and proven to be worthwhile it saved my rear about 2 or 3 times now (nothing major), and it really helped.
(1) 55gallon contractor trashbag black - use it for shelter, or whatever else you can figure out. In a pinch it makes a really good hooch (tarp/tent), a sleeping bag or whatever else you can figure out.
Mini bic lighter
Blastmatch firestarter - this gizmo makes a really good shower of sparks and is springloaded so you can use it with one hand. it works really well but can break so be carefull! Although it takes up alot of usuable room inthe box its worth it as its the easiest and most comfortable starter I own.
Mini pen knife - nothing special, just a sharpened mini pocket knife with scissors, blade and file I found. It is razor sharp and probably could do some light to medium work but thats all its their for.
Bag or cotton balls smothered with petroleum jelly - these little guys make superb firestarters and compact quite nicely. I have ten of them stored in my kit.
Rite in the rain paper (3x5) - this stuff is water proof paper and is quite heavy, could be used to start fires too. I carry 4 sheets of it.
NRA starflash mirror - simple signal mirror, about 2x3".
Fishing kit - some small hooks, fake worms, weights, about 20 feet of 10lb line, nothing special but it helps and all of the stuff has multiple uses.
15 (approx) Saftery pins, assorted sizes - use for whatever you can come up with, fish hooks, clothing repairs, etc.
Strike anywhere matches - cut down to about 1/2 the size 20 (approx)
Folding razorblade - this is super sharp and is a really good tool, I get them at http://www.countycomm. for about 2 bucks a pop. You could also just use a single edge razor although this is much safer as it has a handle!
Carpentars Pencil - jotting down notes, woodshavings for fire, tougher than a normal pencil. I cut it down to about 2" long and left it unsharpened for the woodshavings I can use for fire if need be.
30 Feet 50lb fishing line - this is for heavy duty stuff, making bunny and or small animal snares, setting up a hasty hook, whatever you can come up with.
Small container of floss (the kind you get from the dentist) - use this as field expedient sewing thread, suters (dont recommend), or whatever else. Make sure you have a few sewing needles too (I carry 2)
Small survival whistle - get a really compact whistle and use it for signal for help or whatever, comes in really handy if you lost and hear voices-just use the whistle and they will be able to find you, yelling is harder as you cannot tell the direct as easy.
Potable aqua (1) -yes I know it makes water taste worse than dirt, and it is onyl good for awhile once opened but its the most compact stuff youc an get for a kit like this. You could use katadyn micro tabs but they wont fit as easy.
Advil/tylenol/asprin (approx 20 tabs) - I personally carry advil as not only is it a pain reliever, fever reducer-but its an anti inflamatory (think muscles!). It really helps in the long run. If one could find room you could also have some pepto bismol incase you drink, eat or feel sick. I have yet to find a way to sandwich it into the case.
Size 3" long nails - these are for whatever you can come up with, be they a spearpoint for spearing fish, repairing soemthing, heling pitch your hasty hooch/tent as stakes, etc. I wrapped mine ina bout 30 feet of mason line (small yellow nylon string) so I have some extra rope!
Few bandaids and butteryfly closures, nothing major but every bit helps!
On the outside of the case (now this is critcal) you have some wasted space. I chose to put several layers of duct tape on the box (with the hindge area cut out so the box opens) so you have some tape and that stuff comes in really handy! Also I made a rope handle out of some paracord, about 10 feet of it!!! Really helpfull!!)
Gear Line 2: The Fighting Load, this gear is for fighting not survival.
This gear consists of vest, weapons, comms, and some other stuff you should have:
A good solid load bearing vest or harness, and a buttpack - I cannot help you with what you need-only you can determine which ones you want.
Depending on your weapons you will adjust the magazine and ammo values accordingly:
-Main weapon, be it of the carbine type (AR/AK, etc) or heavier rifle (FAL/M1A, etc)
-6 to 8 mags (+1 in gun), 1-5 stowed in your pack, loaded or unloaded (your choice)
-1 or more magazine of tracers - you decide why you need them
-1-3 bandoliers of ammo for your rifle.
-Sidearm in a proven caliber, 9mm, .45ACP. To a lesser extent .40 S&W, .38/.357
-An extra 1-5 mags for your sidearm
-A possible backup sidearm in a perhaps the same or a smaller caliber with an extra mag and some ammo
-Extra ammo for sidearm(s)
-Bug repellent - 100% deet if possible, dont use on anyone under 12! I use outdoorsmans off in a manaul pump bottle, compact and good stuff. Spray on your clothes-not on your skin!!!
-Camopack for face
-Radio/Walkie talkie - FRS/GMRS radios
-Small radio - GP4L as it takes 2 AA batteries, has multiband reiceiver (SW/FM/AM), light, clock, and lasts long time! http://www.countycomm.com
Batteriers:
+/- Depending on your needs:
AAA (8)
AA (8)
Extra set for any electronic scopes, or other devices you use.
Solar charger if possible, brunton makes a really good model but it isnt light nor is it small.
Weapon Cleaning Gear - I like an otis as they are super compact and superbly made and rugged; also carry the following
* Rod/Pull Through
* Bore Brush
* Chamber Brush
* Patches
* CLP
-More water tabs
-A few flares
-550 cord about 100-150 ft
-Binoculars (discretionary)
-Good water bladder like a camelback or platypus
-Poncho Liner - Woodland Camo USGI
-Poncho - Woodland Camo USGI
-Stripped MRE's (approx 3-5)
-Mountain house meals or similar
First Aid Kit
* Gauze Bandages
* Mil-Compress
* 2 Suture Kits
* Motrin
* Lomotil
* Burn Cream
* Q-tips
-Snake Bite Kit
Messkit or
-Canteen USGI
-Canteen Cup USGI
-Canteen Cup Stove USGI
-Canteen Carrier w/ Water Tabs USGI
-Trioxane/hexamine/esbit Tabs
Gear Line 3: This is really starting to get heavy, so watch out if your not quite fit!
This is your 3rd line gear, the heavy stuff! It is meant to sustain you out of your pack (with suplementing from your surroundings) for a max of two weeks. It is imperative you understand you dont take this pack and run off into the woods and expect to survive with only the contents of thie pack!
This is also my list and will vary from yours, all of this fits in or on a large alice or similar pack.
-150 to 250+ ft of 550 cord
-Platypus 2 Liter container
-Water Bladder - Camelback Storm in Ruck
-Water Purifier - I use a MSR sweet water good for 200 gallons, but the best is a katadyn, the 13k one.
-Sleeping Bag - I use a snugpak hawk 9 rated to 23F/14F (coldest!)
-Sleeping Bag liner - I use a cocoon silk liner, it adds 10F to your bags warmth and keeps the bag cleaner, well worth it.
-Fleece sleeping bag - part of my 3 tiered system, use it onthe inside or outside of your main bag when you really are cold.
-Sleeping Pad - Thermarest prolite 4, expensive but has a great insulating quality and compact
-Tent - I use mountain hardwear pct 1, 3lbs packs 17"x4". A good solo tent!
-Tarp - british basha, use as expediant shelter for you tentless people...works well! USe aluminum gutternails for stakes!
-Bivy Shelter I use a cabelas XPG bivy sack
-4-6 pair of socks USGI
-2 set of cammies (top and bottom) (your wearing one now and ditched your jeans I hope)
-OD Fleece ECWS top
-Fleece ECWS pants
-1 OD Tee Shirt
-1 OD underarmor style shirt
-Mtn house freeze dried or MRE's, carry as much as you think you need than double it!
-Many packets of Top Ramen with Noodles
-Gore Tex Rain Suit Top and Bottom
-1 Packet Baby Wipes
-1 Roll TP
-Small tooth brush and tooth paste (keep sealed well or ditch, bears andother critters will come after it!)
-Extra Ammo in bandoleers
-Pair Thermal Underwear (Thermax/Polypro,etc.)
-Winter Gloves
-Winter Fleece hat
-4 pair wigwam wool cold weather socks or similar WOOL socks..
-Snow Camo - I use West German 2pc coveralls
Comms/Land Nav:
Comms are super usefull in anycase, be it needing to communitcate on the squad level or even something more elaborate like a ham setup or cb. I personally like using FRS/GRMS radios as they are simple, have long battery life and pretty good range for the price.
A ham or CB setup is quite good as well but not nearly as cost effective imho for most people, although a CB radio setup in your cars and a base station somewhere is a good idea! A ham is even better if you know how to use one.
You should also get a police scanner, this way you can pick up alot of the traffic that goes on-be warned they use thier own jargin in most areas but you can figure it out if you listen to enough of it-obviously you wont be hearing code 11 every 5 minutes if its an officer down vs hearing code 19 which means a traffic stop (those arent real codes btw). Take not alot of areas use jammers in thier systems so only the police/FD/EMS can listen in, however these systems may not work or be shut down all together for any reason. You can still pic up stuff with a scanner in alot of areas too.
Another good bunch of gear to have is the old USGI sound powered telephones and comms wiring, they use no batteries unlike the newer (unfortunelty more availible) phones and are simple to operate, if you can find good oens buy'em up asap!
One item of concern however: all of your comms can be and will be intercepted if "they" want to, this means anything you say can be used agaisnt you. That is why its so important to learn the military alphabet and number system, learn how to read maps and compass's and generally know information about land nav. Even better is to each have a dedicated system of securely encoding your transmissions, while possible to decode them it is quite tough if you dont know what your dealing with.
The basic idea is to use a thick book or set of books and use letters or words based on lines, pages and sentences in the book to code and decode your message. Its a complicated process but works really well, and used mostly for totally secure comms from a base station and not in the field really as its to much of a bother unless you have time. Basic idea is we each have a copy of said book outlined with numbers on each page, sentence, paragraph and in some cases words. Then when you transmit you have a call sign for said book your gonna use the the receiver has said book as well. So for example lets use the book catcher in the rye, the secure coded tranmission would go something like this in a perfect world:
Echo 1 to echo base, do you copy.
Copy echo 1 this is echo base, go ahead.
Echo base get holden (holden was the main character in the book, you can use anyname you want for the book).
Copy, go ahead.
Echo base 22, 3, 9, 2. Repeat 22, 3, 9, 2 (in this case it refers in this format: pg 22, paragraph 3, line 9 and word 2 on line 9) complicated but it works.
Generally speaking whatever that word was the unit reported to its base that word, for all the listeners know they were speaking some sort of code and without said book you cannot decipher it. Int he case of the unit the word they said was (for sake of this example) enemy. The word would have been followed in code format till you got the entire sentence, its quite easy to get once you understand and having more than 1 book you use is a really good idea.
Land Navigation:
Land nav is crucial to survival in alot of situations, I cannot help but think that without a compass your gonan be sunk if you have to travel overland with lots of distance. Remember you probably will not be able to travel on the roads, be they highways, mainroads, or even sideroads. I would be wary of doing so as it exposes you to god only knows what. Infact I would stay clear of most roads by being 2-3 miles inland of them if you can. If you have no choice then thats another story..
As for land navigation a compass and map of your area of operations (AO) is better than a gps. The main reason is a compass never needs batteries, it doesnt need connect to a network (who knows if the GPS networkw ill still be up anyway) and is simple to use once you know the basics.
A good compass and a good map are your friends. You have 2 types of maps too, 1. Topographic (the ones you wanna use-they have contour lines that show elevation) and 2. Planemetric - or road maps, handy to have but not always needed.
Then you have compasses, I personally would buy a really good suunto compass. The military lensatatics are ok but you will have to do calcuations and it becomes a PITA. This is a really good compass for the bucks: http://www.opticsgiant.com/suuna3woodco.html
Along with your compass you need a good topomap, these can be bought in a lot of places and are even free on the web @ http://www.topozone.com/default.asp
Now I wont lecture you on how to use a compass, instead I have a nifty powerpoint slideshow that will explain: http://www.box.net/public/5hmyfnrdp
:apc: